CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 24TH, 2006

Saskatchewan farmers have harvested 92 per cent of the 2006 crop, up from last week's total of 91 per cent, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food's weekly crop report.

Last year, at this time, only 53 per cent of the crop had been harvested. The five-year average (2001-2005) is 63 per cent harvested.

Very little harvesting progress was made during the past week, due to wet crops from the previous week's rainfall. Additional rain fell this week in some areas. The southeast, southwest and northwest regional totals increased from last week; the other regional totals remained the same as last week.

Weathering, flooding, and frost were the main sources of crop damage during the past week. In addition, migratory waterfowl resulted in some crop damage. Crop reporters also raised concerns with sprouting and bleaching of crops.

One-third of the province's pastures were reported in good to excellent condition, which is an improvement from the end of August. Availability of livestock water was rated as adequate by 86 per cent of reporters, lower than the end of August. Some reporters in the southern part of the province indicated that sloughs and dugouts are low or empty.

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For More Information, Contact:

Terry Bedard Agriculture and Food Regina Phone: (306) 787-5956