Recent snowfall has grain in dryers

Farmers around Lloydminster had a slow week due to the snowfall. There is 90 per cent of the crop in the bin, the five-year average is 95.

The northwestern region was able to put one per cent of crops in the bin this last week due to the mixed precipitation that fell. Lloydminster and area saw 20 millimeters of mostly snow this week. Turtleford has received the most precipitation since April 1 with 444.5 millimeters.  

Currently, five per cent of crop has been swathed or ready to straight-cut. The Saskatchewan Crop Report says the recent snowfall is not good for producers. Finishing harvest will be difficult, however they are hopeful good weather will come.  

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated at four per cent surplus and 73 per cent adequate. Hay land and pasture topsoil is at one per cent surplus and 71 per cent adequate. 

The majority of the crop damage was a result of strong winds and lodging. Wildlife and geese continue to eat swathed crops while other crops have been damaged by sprouting and are expected to be downgraded at the elevator. 

Grain is coming off tough or damp and is placed in grain dryers. Producers are drying grain, moving cattle and hauling bales.