Provincial crop condition ratings declined a further 1.2 percentage points on the week. The South and Central areas are significantly below the provincial average at 39.6 and 51.6 per cent respectively. The Northwest area is on par with the province at 65.9 while the Northeast and the Peace conditions are bringing up the average at 80.0 and 86.3 per cent respectively. In reviewing the condition of the major crops, spring wheat fell 1.8, barley slipped 1.9, oats declined 1.1, canola sank 2.5 and peas saw the largest decline of 3.6 per cent.
The crop year started with poor sub-surface soil moisture in the South and Central and unfortunately the growing season precipitation has not been enough to support desired crop development. Current sub-surface soil moisture ratings of good or better for the South region are at 18.9, Central is 43.3, Northwest is 56.1, the Northeast and Peace are considerably higher at 85.4 and 88.5 per cent respectively.
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Hot dry weather continued throughout the South and has broadened its hold into the Central Region. The current conditions are reflective of both the sub-surface soil moisture and the growing season precipitation. Continuing concerns with yield and quality potential prevail. The lack of available hay and pasture has led to poorer and hail damaged crops being cut for feed. Harvest may be sooner than expected in selected areas.
Tame hay is short on production, producers have limited carry over feed and, because hay and pasture for sale is scarce, prices are rising. Tame hay and pasture ratings continue to cause concern in most areas of the province. Good or excellent ratings are currently 41.9 and 45.1 per cent respectively, as compared to last week’s numbers of 44.8 and 48.8 percent.
