Saskatchewan producers continue to make good harvest progress, according to the province. The latest crop report for Sept. 29 to Oct. 5 notes that 82 percent of crops are now in the bin, with many producers wrapping things up last week. The southwest and west-central regions lead the way at 92 per cent complete. The east-central and northeast region are the furthest behind at 74 per cent. Rain was limited, with the North Battleford and Rabbit Lake areas reporting the most at just 5 millimeters. All winter cereals and most of the pulse crops have been harvested, except for chickpeas. Spring cereals made the most progress, with triticale completely finished, and barley and durum over 90 per cent complete. “Current crop yields are similar or slightly better than reported last month, and average provincial yields remain at or above historical averages for most crop types,” the province said in the report. There’s less crop damage to report as crops are fully harvested or nearing the finish line. For remaining crops, the report says some concerns are heavy winds blowing swaths around, wildlife feeding on crops, and falling temperatures in some areas impacting crops. With the warm, dry conditions expected to continue, the province is warning producers to be diligent when it comes to equipment. “We would like to remind producers to have fire mitigation resources ready, blow off their combines regularly and take precautions when working around powerlines,” the report added. Producers are also encouraged to be cognizant of their mental health during this often-stressful time. The Farm Stress Line at 1-800-667-4442 provides confidential support to producers Harvest in Saskatchewan remains behind the five-year average of 97 per cent and slightly behind the 10-year average of 88 per cent.
