Saskatchewan farmers have completed 80% of seeding, up from 52% the previous week, but still behind the five-year average of 91%. Wet conditions in the northeast and east-central regions are causing delays. Meanwhile, water releases from Gardiner Dam will increase South Saskatchewan River flows starting June 7.
Saskatchewan farmers have made significant progress in seeding, with 80% of crops in the ground as of June 1, an increase from 52% the previous week. However, this pace is still behind the five-year average of 91%. Regions in the northeast and east central areas are experiencing challenges due to wet conditions, with seeding progress at 67% and 63% respectively. In contrast, the southeast is at 87% complete, the southwest at 91%, west central at 90%, and northwest at 86%.
Crop development is varied, with pulses like field peas and lentils nearing completion at 96% and 94% seeded. Cereals range from 90% for durum to 63% for oats, while 73% of canola is in the ground, with mustard and flax close behind. Perennial forage seeding is just over half complete.
Emerging crops are generally in good to fair condition, with some areas reporting up to 20% excellent. Topsoil moisture remains stable, with 82% of crop land rated adequate, 8% surplus, and 10% short to very short. Hay land and pastures show similar moisture levels. Hot and windy weather has caused crop damage from pests like flea beetles and cutworms, and has delayed crop spraying. Gopher damage is also reported in some regions.
Separately, the Water Security Agency will begin releasing water from the Gardiner Dam on June 7, increasing river flows on the South Saskatchewan River. Outflow is expected to rise from approximately 280 cubic metres per second to about 700 m3/s, peaking around June 11. This action is a precautionary measure following heavy rains in Alberta and anticipated above-normal mountain runoff.
The progress of seeding directly impacts crop yields and the agricultural economy of Saskatchewan, while the water release from Gardiner Dam affects downstream water levels and potential flood risk.