September is wrapping up with over 90 per cent of Saskatchewan’s crop in the bin, ahead of the five and 10-year averages of 73 per cent.
In Lloydminster and area for the period ending Sep. 25, producers are in similar shape with fall cereals, pulses, and spring cereals being complete for the year. Oats at 92 per cent complete, canola at 83 per cent complete and flax at 63 per cent harvested.
The southwest and west-central regions completed harvest this week, with 98 and 97 per cent of crops off, respectively. The northwest is 90 per cent complete, followed by the southeast at 89 per cent and northeast at 88 per cent. The east-central region has made significant progress this past week, with 82 per cent of crops off.
Soil Moisture
Forty-two per cent of cropland has adequate topsoil moisture, 37 per cent is short and 21 per cent is very short.
Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture are rated at 27 per cent adequate, 48 per cent is short and 25 per cent is very short. Producers in the region are currently experiencing water supply shortages for their livestock and are now hauling water. Some producers are also concerned with their water quality.
Challenges
Overall producers have had to deal with light frost, wind damage, and wildlife in the fields but are pressing on with pre-winter chores.
Producers are also marketing cattle, hauling water, and feeding and moving cattle home for the winter.