Because of the frequent and forecasted rains, Saskatchewan farmers have “slowed or delayed their haying operations” this season.
A drought analysis done by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada at the end of May found nearly all of Saskatchewan started the planting and growing season “abnormally dry,” with a few areas of moderate and severe drought in western and north-central areas.
Now, many farmers say they are instead having to deal with excess moisture flooding crops planted in low-lying areas.
Drought conditions across Canada
“Some regions continue to report that low lying areas have standing water with limited chance for crop recovery within these areas,” noted the crop report. “Other areas of the field that are saturated have crop yellowing, stunting and root rot development due to moisture stress.”
The Goodeve area received nearly 150 mm of rain between June 25 and July 1, while the Ituna, Rosetown and Biggar regions each recorded well over 100 mm of precipitation.
Producers will also be keeping an eye on animal, bug and pest conditions, including grasshopper development ; according to the crop report, the cold weather has slowed them down, but they could reemerge as conditions warm up.
Gophers, undeterred by the weather, “continue to be a problem, notably in canola” throughout the growing season so far, the report says.
Because of the frequent and forecasted rains, Saskatchewan farmers have “slowed or delayed their haying operations” as they wait for warmer, drier weather, and only six per cent of the hay crop has received its first cut, it adds.
Meanwhile, as the cold and rainy summer continues, topsoil moisture levels are also increasing. Fourteen per cent of cropland topsoil in Saskatchewan is now reported to have surplus moisture, while 80 per cent has adequate moisture and only six per cent is short.
Then and now: Sask. cropland topsoil moisture conditions in 2023 vs. 2024
At this point in the season, producers are also reporting “overall good pasture conditions throughout the province.” This week, 86 per cent of pastures were reported to be in “excellent” or “good” condition.
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