CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 31ST

Saskatchewan farmers have seeded 80 per cent of the 2004 crop, behind the five-year average of 88 per cent, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.

Cool, wet weather has slowed seeding progress in many areas of the province. Farmers in the northeast region have made the most progress, with 94 per cent of this year's crop in the ground, while farmers in the southeast region have seeded only 57 per cent.

Crop development is generally behind normal, due to cool weather over the past week. Most crops are emerging relatively evenly and in good condition.

Topsoil moisture conditions on crop land improved in most areas this past week. Rainfall in excess of 50 mm fell in many locations across the south. Approximately 82 per cent of crop land and 70 per cent of hay and pasture land has adequate or surplus topsoil moisture. The west-central and northwest regions improved over the past week, but are in need of additional rainfall.

Water availability for livestock is adequate in most of the province with some water shortages reported in the west central region.

Pasture condition is variable, with 71 per cent of pasture land in fair to excellent condition. Pastures in the west central region are in the poorest condition with 75 per cent in poor or very poor condition.

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For More Information, Contact:

Gary Coghill Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306) 787-5978