NORTH BATTLEFORD - Crops are progressing well in the northwest now that rain has been received over the past few weeks. Some areas that received heavy rainfall are now dealing with flooded out low spots in some fields, but producers are happy to get the moisture.
Regionally, 80 per cent of the spring cereals, 75 per cent of the oilseed crops and 80 per cent of the pulse crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year. Crop conditions range from fair to good in the region, with 61 per cent of the spring wheat, 51 per of the canola and 68 per cent of the peas being in good condition at this time.
There was some heavy precipitation in the Spiritwood area where 86 mm was received. The Frenchmen Butte, Turtleford and Meadow Lake areas received around 55 mm of moisture, the Duck Lake area 37 mm and the Nielburg area 18 mm. Moisture conditions have drastically improved in some parts of the region while others are still very dry.
Cropland topsoil moisture rated as 25 per cent surplus, 69 per cent adequate and six per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 23 per cent surplus, 71 per cent adequate and six per cent short.
Haying has not started but will be underway soon in the region. Some fields remain too wet to start haying after the recent rain. Recent rains might have been too late to improve hay yield enough for first cut but if the moisture continues there is hope for the second cut. Hay quality is rated as 57 per cent good and 43 per cent fair.
The majority of crop damage this week was from flooding, hail and wind. Insect pests are causing some issues across the region and producers have been busy spraying to keep them under control.
