Seeding is virtually wrapped up for the spring season in Saskatchewan. The Ministry of Agriculture’s Weekly Crop Report for the week of June 9 - 15 cites 99 percent of the crop in the ground. 

Windy conditions put a dent in spraying plans but contributed to drying in the province’s few moisture laden areas.

This week’s rainfall across the province was welcome, but farmers in the south would invite more. Others in central Saskatchewan, particularly in the Humboldt area have experienced localized flooding with the massive weekend rainfall averaging 71 mm. 

While Humboldt received the greatest amount of rainfall, areas in the northwest portion of the region received less. Hudson Bay and Star City regions received only four mm, while Kinistino and Melfort received 20 mm and the Spruce Home area received around 30 mm.

Prior to this week’s sustained rainfall, cropland topsoil moisture was rated at 88 percent adequate and eight percent surplus. 

In the northeast region, 64 percent of the fall cereals, 66 percent of the spring cereals, 57 percent of the oilseed crops and 74 percent of the pulse crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year. Crop conditions range from fair to excellent in the region, with 83 per cent of the spring wheat, 78 per of the canola and 89 per cent of the peas in good to excellent condition.

Wind and localized flooding are the most frequent cause of damage. The slow moving low pressure system this week is contributing to more standing water. Most farmers in the region are looking for more settled weather and sunshine to keep crops progressing.