Seeding in Saskatchewan behind five-year average

Saskatchewan farmers made progress in their seeding operations last week, but they’re still behind their usual pace.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture’s weekly crop report, seeding is 38 per cent complete in the province, an increase from nine per cent the previous week. However, the five-year average for this time of year is 53 per cent.

The report said seeding is furthest ahead in the northwest, with 55 per cent of crop in the ground. Producers in the west-central region are 54 per cent done, those in the southwest are at 43 per cent and farmers in the southeast are at 18 per cent.

Recent rains resulted in wet fields in the eastern half of the province, slowing seeding.

Topsoil moisture levels for cropland are reported as 69 per cent adequate and 24 per cent short. Pasture and hayland topsoil moisture levels are considered 63 per cent adequate and 28 per cent short.

“With the dry conditions, producers are reminded to stay vigilant about fire risk and to have fire prevention equipment at the ready,” the report said. “Stress is high this time of year for producers and producers are reminded to take safety precautions in all the work they do.”

To that end, the ministry reminded producers that the Farm Stress Line provides support for farmers and ranchers at 1-800-667-4442.