CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST 10TH, 2003

Hot, dry weather continues to stress crops and advance the development of the harvest, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.

Harvesting of the 2003 crop increased slightly last week to four per cent, with a further nine per cent lying in the swath. Fifty-eight per cent of the fall rye, 51 per cent of the winter wheat, 26 per cent of the peas, 15 per cent of the triticale, and 12 per cent of the lentils have been harvested.

Sixty per cent of the spring cereals are ahead of normal development, as well as 56 per cent of the oilseeds, 62 per cent of the pulses, and 55 per cent of the fall cereals. The majority of the spring crops are falling into the fair category, which means below average yields. However, the majority of the fall crops are reported in good to excellent condition.

Topsoil moisture conditions improved in some areas as a result of scattered thundershowers during the past week, but overall, crop, hay, and pasture land are reported as being short or very short of topsoil moisture.

Insect, heat, and drought stress were the main sources of crop damage during the past week. Grasshoppers continue to cause damage in many areas across the province. Other insects causing damage include aphids, flea beetles, saw flies, diamondback moth larva, bertha armyworms, and Lygus bugs.

Ninety-six per cent of the first-cut hay crop has been baled or put into silage and a further three per cent has been cut. Quality is reported as good. Four per cent of the second-cut hay crop has been baled or put into silage and a further 19 per cent has been cut. More than 60 per cent of reporters do not expect to harvest a second cut.

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For More Information, Contact:

Terry Karwandy Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306)787-5956