The latest crop report says hot dry weather has accelerated crop development and some farmers have started combining.

Estimated yields for many crops across the province are expected to be well below average.

Any rain now won’t improve yields but would have a positive effect next year.

Rainfall this past week varied across the province, ranging from zero to 55 millimeters around Indian Head and Neilburg.

The Lumsden area northeast of Regina had 33 millimeters, the Langenburg area 30 millimeters and Saltcoats 24 millimeters.

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated 4 percent adequate, 38 percent short and 58 percent very short.

The prolonged drought has rapidly deteriorated crop conditions and a majority of crops are rated poor to fair.

Some producers are assessing yields and determining if cutting and baling for feed is the better option.

The main causes of crop loss this past week were strong winds, drought stress, hail and grasshoppers.

Haying continues with 75 percent baled or put into silage.

Hay yields are below normal this year due to hot dry weather.
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