Winnipeg, June 21 (CNS Canada) – The majority of crops in Saskatchewan are at normal stages of development for this time of year, according to the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture’s crop report for the week ended June 18.

Seventy-five per cent of the provincial pulse crops and fall and spring cereals are at a normal development stage, while 70 per cent of oilseeds are at the same stage.

Rain fell across many areas of the province, with large amounts reported in the west-central region. The Rosthern area, north of Saskatoon, received 54 mm of precipitation, while Kindersley, southwest of Saskatoon, and Moosomin, in the southeastern portion of the province, received 30 mm.

There are still many dry areas in the province though. Conditions remain dry throughout the southwestern and west-central regions. Places such as Gull Lake, Shaunavon, Outlook and Dinsmore, have received less than 25 mm of rain since April 1.

Cropland topsoil moisture conditions across the province are rated at four per cent surplus, 67 per cent adequate, 24 per cent short and five per cent very shot. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is rated at 61 per cent adequate, 28 per cent short and 11 per cent very short.

Topsoil moisture conditions are the worst in the southwest corner where dry conditions persist. Crops, hay and pastures in these areas are very dry.

Crop conditions in the southern portion of the province that has received rain over the last few weeks have improved. However hay yields are expected to be lower than average and pastures are expected to have reduced carrying capacity heading into the summer months.

Winds were less severe during the week, which allowed for producers to get on the fields and do some in-crop weed control.

The majority of crop damage in Saskatchewan during the week was due to lack of moisture. Cutworms continue to cause damage in some areas.