Drought conditions continue to cause a problem for Saskatchewan producers.
The prolonged drought conditions have rapidly deteriorated crop conditions and a majority of crops are rated as poor to fair. The estimated yields for many crops across the province is expected to be well below average.
The heat has also accelerated the ripening and maturation of all crops, which are well ahead of their normal developmental stages for this time of year. Some producers have started harvesting, while others are still assessing yields and determining if cutting and baling is the better option.
Haying continues throughout the province. Livestock producers now have 15 per cent of hay crop cut and 75 per cent baled or put into silage. Many producers across the province have finished their haying operations.
Hay quality is rated as four per cent excellent, 40 per cent good, 34 per cent fair, and 22 per cent poor. Hay yields are below normal this year. A second cut is extremely unlikely.
Topsoil moisture levels continue to decline. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as four per cent adequate, 38 per cent short, and 58 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as two per cent adequate, 27 per cent short, and 71 per cent very short.
A complete version of the crop report is available online.
