Saskatchewan producers were able to make good progress in the fields over the past week, according to the province’s latest crop report. Dry conditions across much of the province early in the week of Aug. 25 – 31 were a big reason 18 per cent of harvest is now complete across Saskatchewan, up seven per cent from the previous week. Overall, 2026 harvest progress remains below the 5-year average of 39 per cent, and the 10 year average of 34 per cent. “Producers remain optimistic that favourable weather conditions will support further harvest progress,” the release says. Heavy rain was reported in several areas, with Prairie Rose seeing the most at 134 millimetres. Fertile Felt, Langenburg and Sasman all received over 95 mm as well. On the positive side, the widespread rain did improve topsoil moisture across the province. Cropland topsoil moisture is estimated at 11 per cent surplus, 64 per cent adequate, 20 per cent short and 5 per cent very short. Winter cereals lead the way for crops harvested. Winter wheat is 74 per cent complete, and fall rye is 88 per cent. For spring cereals, triticale is at 68 per cent, with barley following at 32 per cent. Lentils are the top pulse harvested, at 73 per cent. Field peas are next at 66 per cent. Mustard leads the way for oilseeds harvested at 25 per cent. “The significant variation in growing conditions across Saskatchewan resulted in a wide range of yield estimates for all crops,” says the province. “Producers continue to report considerable yield variability due to the dynamic nature of the growing season.” For average yield, chickpeas are tops at 1501 pounds per acre. Lentils, mustard and canary seed are all over 1100 pounds. Other standouts include 94 bushels per acre for oats and 52 bushels per acre for hard red spring wheat. Crop damages during the period were mostly due to wind and rain. Some producers reported Sclerotinia stem rot damage in canola. The province is encouraging producers to take safety precautions during this busy and stressful time. “This includes having fire suppression equipment readily available and exercising caution when working around powerlines,” it noted in the crop report. “The Farm Stress Line is available to provide confidential support to producers, toll-free at 1 800 667-4442.” Drivers are also asked to use caution if they encounter farm machinery and equipment on highways. Overall, 2026 harvest progress remains below the 5-year average of 39 per cent, and the 10 year average of 34 per cent. The full report can be found here.
