Heavy rainfall and severe hailstorms across Saskatchewan have left fields saturated, delayed crop development and brought haying operations to a complete standstill, according to the latest provincial crop report.
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The report, covering June 23 to June 29, highlights widespread flooding in low-lying areas following a series of intense summer storms. The east-central region was hit hardest, with the Kuroki area recording 165 millimetres of rain, while Marengo received 145 millimetres.
The downpours have triggered a sharp rise in excess moisture. Cropland topsoil moisture is now rated at 36 per cent surplus and 63 per cent adequate. Pasture topsoil moisture sits at 17 per cent surplus and 80 per cent adequate.
The prolonged cool, wet weather has slowed plant progression and hampered critical herbicide applications. Roughly half of the province’s spring cereal and oilseed crops are tracking behind normal development stages for this time of year. Conversely, the western half of the province has the fewest delayed acres due to overall warmer and drier seasonal conditions.
Despite the weather setbacks, overall crop conditions remain relatively resilient. Two-thirds of spring cereals, fall cereals and pulse crops are currently rated in good condition, with another quarter of cereals rated excellent.
Livestock producers, however, are facing a difficult start to the season. The damp conditions have prevented farmers from starting their first cuts of hay, leaving zero per cent of the province’s hay crops cut, baled or silaged by the end of June.
While flooding remains the primary driver of widespread crop damage, producers also reported localized losses from hail, high winds, gophers and flea beetles.
Provincial authorities are reminding affected farmers that Multi-Peril Crop Insurance covers yield losses from excess moisture. Additionally, interim benefits through the AgriStability program are available to help producers manage immediate cash flow issues caused by the flooding.
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