Harvest progress lags behind average after rain delays

Harvest progress in Saskatchewan has slowed in recent days as rain and high humidity delayed combining in the west and stalled work in the east.

The Ministry of Agriculture said Thursday that 68 per cent of the 2025 crop is now in the bin, trailing the five-year average of 83 per cent and the 10-year average of 72 per cent.

The southwest leads the province at 80 per cent complete, followed by the southeast at 70 per cent. The northwest is 69 per cent finished, the northeast 61 per cent, west-central 65 per cent and east-central 59 per cent.

Winter wheat and fall rye are fully harvested, while field peas are at 99 per cent and lentils 96 per cent. Spring wheat is 73 per cent combined, durum 78 per cent, oats 70 per cent and barley 86 per cent. Canola harvest advanced this week to 42 per cent, while flax is 18 per cent, soybeans 23 per cent and mustard 62 per cent.

Rainfall was light across most of the province. The heaviest precipitation was reported east of Yorkton, with 44 millimetres in Rhein and 18 mm in Calder. Carnduff and Blaine Lake each recorded 20 mm.

Topsoil moisture levels declined over the week, with cropland rated two per cent surplus, 59 per cent adequate, 32 per cent short and seven per cent very short. Hayland is three per cent surplus, 51 per cent adequate, 29 per cent short and 17 per cent very short. Pastures are two per cent surplus, 40 per cent adequate, 36 per cent short and 22 per cent very short.

Pasture conditions have also weakened since August. Only one per cent of pastures are considered excellent, 31 per cent good, 39 per cent fair, 20 per cent poor and nine per cent very poor.

Wind and dry conditions were the main sources of crop damage this week, alongside some water damage in low-lying areas. Migrating waterfowl also caused losses as geese and cranes moved through the province.

Producers are reminded to take precautions during the busy harvest season. The Farm Stress Line is available at 1-800-667-4442, and the ministry urges farmers to be prepared for machinery fires, keep combines clear of debris and use caution around power lines. Motorists are also advised to watch for farm equipment on the roads.