Field peas have reached the R1-R2 stage, with some fungicide application occurring for mycosphaerella blight. Field peas overall crop condition continues to suffer in some regions with the extended wet conditions. Yellowing in saturated field areas continues to be evident with wilting plants and ample evidence of root rot was found in these fields. Fungicide application has also begun on canola that has reached the appropriate stage. Most crops are recovering from excess moisture and stress conditions have been noted in many regions mostly in low lying areas of fields.

Cereals

Fall rye and winter wheat are at the soft dough stage with the most advanced fields ripening. Grain corn growth stage ranges from V6 to V8. Spring wheat is reported to be from flag to heading stage with fungicide application for fusarium head blight occurring. Spring wheat quality is rated mostly fair to good with about 10 per cent of the crop being reported as poor in the Northwest, Central, and Interlake regions.

Oilseeds 

Canola growth stage ranges from the rosette to flowering stage. With fungicide application for sclerotinia occurring. Sunflowers are at the V8 to V12 growth stage with R1 stage being reported. Flax crops ranged from growth stage 5 to 7.

Pulses and Soybeans 

Field peas have reached the R1-R2 stage, with some fungicide application occurring for mycosphaerella blight. Soybean growth stage ranges from second to fourth trifoliate with flowering being reported on earliest fields. Overall crop development is delayed with producers looking for warmer conditions to drive the crop forward. Iron deficiency chlorosis continues to show up in some fields. Dry beans are in third to fourth trifoliate stage.

Forages & Livestock

Forages
Rain events continue to make field access difficult and are not allowing for sufficient drying time of cut forages. Progress on first-cut harvest of hayfields is behind and producers are concerned about both the quantity and quality of harvested feed that will be available this winter. Producers have turned to bale wrapping to make silage bales as drying conditions have been difficult.

Putting up dry hay has been extremely challenging with the moisture received in most areas. Initial yields are reporting normal to above average yields if able to get dry hay up.

Grasses have headed out except for big blue stem and little blue stem grasses. The hay crop is exceptionally good, although there’s hope for a break in the rains during the cut.

Alfalfa fields are in mid to late bloom and forage with plentiful yield; forage quality is being compromised due to accessibility issues and will continue to decline as plants mature.

Livestock
Pastures are looking good, with lots of grass available for grazing. Bulls have been placed with cows. Areas in the Northwest region are reporting pastures and hayfields that are heavily saturated with ongoing rains.

Increased insect pressure and fly control, potential for foot rot, and pinkeye are the main animal health issues. Cattle on pasture are in good condition with the increased chance of disease due to insect pressures.

Dugouts and irrigation ponds are mostly recharged, with many rivers full, and some ditches with standing water in them.

Regional Comments

Southwest
There have been more showers in the Southwest region, with high humidity and rainfall ranging from 1 mm in Virden to 72 mm in Newdale area. Very localized storms have caused excess moisture conditions.
Many farmers are using airplanes to spray fungicides rather than working in fields. Small creeks are flowing, and some of the deeper low spots have standing water. Winter cereals and canola are looking great, and sunflowers appear decent. Early spring cereals are doing well, but later crops are behind in stage and need the heat forecasted for this week. Warm season crops like soybeans, dry beans, and corn are progressing slowly, but the warmer forecast will help them catch up in staging.

Corn has shown improvement this week and is mostly about 16 inches tall. Herbicide applications are complete, with fungicides to follow as cereals reach the appropriate stage. Warm and humid conditions are setting the stage for fusarium. 

Canola is ranging from bolt to full flowering stage. Peas have flowers and are about 24 inches tall and flowering. Soybeans/dry beans are reaching the first flower at about 6 inches tall, sunflowers are at R1 stage, corn is at V9 stage, oats/spring wheat are at flag leaf to head- flowering stage, barley is booting to head emerged, winter wheat has completed anthesis, and fall rye is at milking stage.

Mycosphaerella and/or bacterial blight lesions are very prevalent in peas, and septoria or bacterial leaf spotting has been observed in oats, especially after recent rains.

Northwest 
Several thunderstorms brought large amounts of precipitation during the week. Highest precipitation was at the Fork River station, recording 82 mm accumulated. Hail also accompanied these storms. Damage is unknown at this time. Overnight temperatures have stayed close to 10 C degrees and above this week. Highest daytime temperature was at The Pas station at 28 C degrees. Excess moisture is a concern and crops will need drying conditions.

Earliest field peas are now in R1 stage. For the most part fields are looking good, however there are fields affected by the excess moisture and doing poorly.

Spring wheat advanced into head emergence rapidly with recent heat. Most advanced fields have flowered. Fields affected by excess moisture are showing signs of stress and are yellowed and stunted. With recent moisture and humidity, fusarium head blight is a concern and many fields have been sprayed with fungicide.

Canola crops continue to be quite varied. Earliest seeded fields are flowering, and the remainder of the crop falls behind in the bolting and rosette stages. Flea beetle pressure has decreased slightly as the crops have advanced into stages that can tolerate feeding. Some poorer fields across the region are starting to bolt due to stress.

Soybean crops continue in second to fourth trifoliate stage and are mostly looking good. Recent heat has helped and advanced the crops.

Winter wheat and fall rye crops are in grain development stage and looking good in most areas not affected by excess moisture.

Central 
The week brought several rainfall events, causing water to pool in low spots, and high humidity. The most rainfall was received in the southeast of the central region, at Windygates (80.7 mm). Austin, in the northwest part of the region received only 3.4 mm.

Crops in low lying areas are undergoing visible water stress, and there are dead spots in some fields. The moist conditions are contributing to iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) in soybean. Cooler spring temperatures have delayed crop growth, and many crops are more advanced developmentally than they may at first appear given their height. Warm season crops including soybean, edible beans, and corn are the most affected.

The stage of each crop varies greatly at the local level across the region, with crops in the north at an earlier developmental stage than those in the Pembina Valley. Most cereals are heading out, with some still at the flag leaf stage. Fungicide applications are taking place where conditions allow, many by aircraft due to wet field conditions. Some lodging is present in barley and wheat fields.

Fall rye and winter wheat are at the soft dough stage with the most advanced fields ripening. Field peas are flowering and around 24 inches high. Soybeans are mostly between the third to the fourth trifoliate stage, with the earliest soybeans beginning to flower (R1). Iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) is prevalent this year due to the moist conditions. The most advanced edible beans are approaching flowering. Canola is in early – mid flowering, with later fields from cabbaging to bolting stages. Flax is between stage 5 (stem extension) to stage 7 (first flower). Silage and grain corn growth has been slow this year due to the cool temperatures. Most of the crop is at V6 – V8, being more advanced in the south of the region.

Fungicide spraying is underway in cereals and canola, often taking place via aircraft due to difficulties accessing fields. Tan spot and stripe are present in cereal fields, and Septoria has been reported in oats. The humid conditions and dropping petals are creating ideal conditions for sclerotinia in canola. Mycosphaerella, bacterial blight and root rot are present in pea fields.

Eastern 
Rainfall amounts across the region during the reporting period were again highly variable and ranged from 3 mm to 46 mm. Average rainfall in the region was 18 mm with the largest amount in Richer at 41 mm and Stead at 46 mm. Field access issues continue to challenge producer spraying progress, but some herbicide/fungicide application progress was made.

The standing water issues are subsiding in areas that did not receive significant rain. All crops continue to display yellowing with lower areas and field drains showing loss of plants. Producers remain concerned about weed growth stage and herbicide efficacy in later seeded fields. The wet conditions are causing issues with field access. Expect to see more fungicide aerial applications this week, especially with meeting the correct timing in canola for sclerotinia and the fusarium head blight in wheat. Ground application equipment will be used as well as field access improves.

Fall rye/winter wheat stands are in the soft dough stage. Rapid winter cereal crop development continued with crop conditions being good in areas that are not saturated. Early seeded spring cereals have moved into head emergence/flowering stage. Some lodging was noted in more advanced wheat fields.

Fungicide application on early seeded cereals has started and will continue this week as fields come into stage. Herbicide applications on later seeded cereals are finishing up as field conditions allow.

In corn, dependent on the field, second herbicide application progress is ongoing. Crop stage was generally more uniform and usually ranged from V6 to V7 in fields not overly saturated. While crop condition is rated as mostly good outside of saturated areas, corn development continues to lag. More reports have been received of cutworm damage/spraying on corn acres from the most eastern parts of the region.

Soybean growth stage ranges from second to fourth trifoliate with flowering being reported (R1). First pass herbicide applications are wrapping up. Soybean fields continue to show yellowing this week and is attributed to the effects of excess moisture, herbicide application and iron chlorosis.

Herbicide spraying continues on late seeded canola crop with growth stages at rosette/cabbaging. Early seeded canola is at 50 per cent flower with fungicide applications ongoing. With the wet conditions and humidity, there is an increased risk for sclerotina development in the crop. Most acres are expected to see a fungicide application to reduce the risk of disease.

Sunflowers continue to be in the vegetative growth stage, V8 to V12, with a lot of variation due to planting date and water stressed conditions.

Interlake 
Rainfall continues to be variable with scattered thundershowers and localized heavy downpours. Areas receiving the highest amounts of 30 to 56 mm include Woodlands, Teulon, Selkirk, Fisherton and Riverton. Scattered showers for much of the region were in the 10 to 30 mm range. Fields are wet with water ponding in most fields in the Teulon area. Although improvement is evident, much of the region continues to record higher than normal amounts of precipitation.

Rapid crop advancement is evident with temperatures in the high 20 C range and high humidity. However, soybean and canola growth has been slower due to wet conditions and sub-optimal heat so far this growing season. Field conditions continue to be variable.

Most of the spring wheat is at four leaf to stem elongation. Early seeded spring wheat is at the flag to full head emergence stage, with cereal fungicide spraying expected to start mid-week. Oats and barley are at similar growth stages. Winter wheat and fall rye growth stages have advanced to full head emergence and are at the milk to soft stage.

Peas are looking good and advanced at eight to ten node stage, with fungicide application underway in some areas in the south Interlake. Reports of bacteria lesions in some pea fields.

Early seeded canola is at bolting to flowering stages. Fungicide spraying has started on canola.

Soybeans in general look good at second to fourth trifoliate stage. Soybean development continues to be delayed with cool wet conditions. Iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) is still noticeable in soybean fields. Fields continue to show yellowing leaves as evidence of excess moisture.

Sunflowers have emerged nicely and are in good condition at the V8 to V12 stage. Flax stands look great with growth stages ranging from stage 4 to Stage 5.

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Cereals 

Fall rye/winter wheat stands are at the milk to soft dough stage, with fungicide applications for fusarium head blight complete. Rapid winter cereal crop development continued to be noted with crop conditions being good.

Oats/spring wheat are at four leaves to stem elongation. Early seeded spring cereals have moved into flag leaf/head emergence stage.

Grain corn growth stage ranges from V4 to V6.

Oilseeds

Canola growth stage ranges from the rosette to flowering stage.

Growth stages ranging from cotyledon to rosette/cabbaging have been reported in the Interlake and Eastern regions.

Sunflowers are at the V8 to V12 growth stage. Flax crops ranged from growth stage 4 to 5.

Pulses and Soybeans

Field peas are at the eight to ten node stage, with some fungicide application occurring in the Southwest region.

Soybean growth stage ranges from first to third trifoliate. Overall crop development is delayed with producers looking for warmer conditions to drive the crop forward.

Iron deficiency chlorosis continues to show up in some fields.

Dry beans are in first to second trifoliate stage.

Forages and Livestock

Forages
Grass and forages are growing well and would benefit from warmer weather to make the most of the moisture. Bromes and ryegrasses are heading, and alfalfa is mid flowering. Grasses have headed out, except for big blue stem and little blue stem grasses. It appears to be a promising hay crop ahead, with hopes that the rains will ease during harvesting. Some areas may prove challenging to access due to wet conditions in many spots. 

Most dairy farms have taken their first cut of alfalfa silage. Beef producers have started, and this will continue as weather allows. Silage has been a good option for producers to shorten the period needed for drying hay, and some producers have switched from hay production to silage.

Silage corn fields are delayed at the V2-V3 stage because of late seeding and cool temperatures.

Livestock
Cattle are making the most of strong growth due to the moist soil conditions. Farms which are still calving may be supplementing on smaller paddocks close to the yard. Producers are attempting to control fly numbers on pasture and are looking for pink eye and foot rot where conditions remain wet underfoot.

Livestock are doing well, with plenty of grass available for grazing. Bulls are starting to be introduced to cows. There seems to be an increase in skunks, raccoons, and coyotes this year, possibly due to the wet conditions in low-lying areas providing more cover.

Frequent significant rainfall is causing poor pen conditions for backgrounded and feeder cattle.

Dugouts and irrigation ponds are mostly recharged, with many rivers full, and some ditches with standing water in them.

Regional Comments

Southwest
More rain has resulted in excess moisture in many areas. Unseasonably cool temperatures persist due to stormy weather. Windy conditions are making herbicide spraying difficult. Some fields only aerial application is possible. Small creeks are flowing, and some of the lower, deeper spots have standing water.

Cool-season crops are currently showing the best results so far, including winter cereals and canola. Early spring cereals appear healthy, but later crops are behind in growth stage and require more heat. Warm season crops such as soybean, dry bean, and corn are progressing very slowly this year. However, corn has shown improvement this week and is now mostly about 12 inches tall. Wind-whipped cereal leaf tips are noticeable from last week’s windstorm.

Canola is at the three leaf to bolt stage. Peas are 14 inches tall (8-10 nodes); some early crops are already flowering. Producers have started to spray for Mycosphaerella blight in peas given the wet weather and disease being found in the lower canopy.

Soybean and dry bean are at the first to second trifoliate stage and are slow to develop. Sunflowers and corn are at V6 stage, oats/spring wheat are at the 4-leaf to flag leaf stage, and barley is at the 4-leaf to awns stage, with head emergence starting. Septoria and bacterial leaf spotting has been observed in oats, particularly after recent rains.

Northwest
A mixed week of weather conditions again with excess moisture in some areas. Localized areas saw large amounts of precipitation in a short time.

Field peas are continuing in the vegetative stage, and most advanced fields are starting to flower. They are looking good for the most part, depending on the region.
Majority of spring wheat is in the late tiller stage. Some areas are looking good, while other areas are moisture stressed.

Canola crops continue to be quite varied. Some of the earliest seeded fields have bolted and are close to flowering, while some crops are still at seedling stage. Flea beetle pressure continues and is requiring multiple insecticide applications. With some areas being so saturated, spraying has been delayed and controlling flea beetles has been a challenge. Herbicide applications are ongoing as stages are reached; however, wind and wet conditions continue to challenge timely applications. Some poorer fields across the region are starting to bolt due to stress. 

Soybean crops continue in vegetative growth and range from one to three trifoliate stage. Growth has been slow and would greatly benefit from some heat. 

Winter wheat and Fall rye crops are headed out. 

Central 
The week was cool, at times windy, and had several rainfall events. Windspeeds in excess of 100 km/hr were reported on Monday morning, causing damage to tree rows and localized lodging of cereal crops. Water is pooling in low spots, with crops undergoing visible water stress. The cooler temperatures are slowing crop growth, and many crops are more advanced developmentally than they may at first appear given their height. Warm season crops including soybean, edible beans, and corn are the most affected. 

The stage of each crop varies greatly at the local level across the region, with crops in the north at a younger developmental stage than those in the Pembina Valley. Cereals are at flag leaf stage, with some barley and spring wheat heading out. Fungicide applications are taking place as conditions allow. Fall rye and winter wheat is mostly at the milk to soft dough stage. Field peas are flowering. Soybeans range from the first to third trifoliate stage and edible beans are at the first to second trifoliate stage, with herbicide applications continuing. 

Iron deficiency chlorosis is showing up in soybeans. Later seeded canola is mostly from the rosette to bolting stages, with the earliest seeded fields early to mid-flower. Flax is mostly 6 inches tall at growth stage 4 (start of leaf spiral) – stage 5 (stem extension). Sunflowers vary greatly depending on planting date and are between V6 to V12. Silage and grain corn growth has been slow this year due to the cool temperatures. Most of the crop is at V3, being more advanced in the south of the region, where some of the earlier crop is at V6. 

Producers are monitoring for emergence of diseases which may be prevalent due to moist conditions. Fungicide spraying is underway in cereals and canola, often taking place via aircraft due to difficulties accessing fields. In some cases applications in cereals took place after the crop was well within the flag leaf stage. Winter wheat is now beyond application stage as most are at the milk stage.Tan spot and stripe rust have been appearing in wheat fields, with some control measures taking place. The humid conditions and dropping petals are creating ideal conditions for sclerotinia in canola. 

Eastern 
Rainfall amounts across the Eastern region during the reporting period were highly variable and ranged from 18 mm to 62mm. Field access issues and windy conditions continue to challenge spraying progress, but calmer periods did allow producers to make some herbicide application progress. Standing water is evident in many fields. Spring cereals along with field peas, flax, soybeans, and corn continue to display yellowing with lower areas and field drains showing plant death. 

Fall rye/winter wheat stands are at the milk to soft dough stage, with fungicide applications for fusarium head blight complete. Rapid winter cereal crop development continued to be noted with crop conditions being good. Early seeded spring cereals have moved into flag leaf/head emergence stage. Herbicide application on later seeded cereals is ongoing with development ranging from the two-leaf stage to stem elongation. Yellowing of crops in saturated areas of fields continues to be noted. In corn, dependent on the field, herbicide application progress ranged from first pass almost complete to the second pass ongoing. Crop stage is generally more uniform and ranges from V5 to V6. While crop condition is rated as mostly good outside of saturated field areas, corn development continues to be slow with cooler temperatures. Higher temperatures are needed to get the crop growing better. 

Soybean growth stage ranged from first to second trifoliate. Soybean development continues to be delayed with cool wet conditions, but the crop looks to be handling the rains well. First pass herbicide applications are about 50 – 60 per cent complete. Soybean fields continue to show yellowing this week due to the effects of excess moisture, herbicide application and the beginning of iron chlorosis. Field peas are at the 8 to 10 node stage. Overall crop condition is good but yellowing in saturated field areas continues to be evident. Wilting plants and ample evidence of rot root was found in these fields. Dry conditions are needed to prevent root diseases from taking hold in large areas of fields. 

Herbicide application in early seeded canola is complete with that crop at bolting to early flower. Spraying continues on the late seeded canola with growth stages at rosette/cabbaging. A few reports of insecticide application to control flea beetles in later seeded canola. Wilting plants and ample evidence of rot root is being found in saturated fields. Dry conditions are needed to prevent root diseases from taking hold in large areas of fields. Flax crops ranged from growth stage 4 (start of leaf spiral) to growth stage 5 (stem extension). Herbicide applications are mostly complete on the limited flax acres in the region. Overall crop condition is rated as good but some crop yellowing in saturated field areas. 

Sunflower growth stage ranged from V8 to V12 with the crop in mostly good condition. Herbicide applications in sunflowers are mostly complete. A few sunflower beetles were noted in some fields, but leaf damage was minimal and plant growth stage was adequately advanced. 

Interlake 
Precipitation across the region was variable with strong winds and thunderstorms. Rainfall accumulation across the region ranged from 10 to 28.8 mm. The South Interlake area including Woodlands, Stonewall, Selkirk, and Petersfield received rainfall amounts ranging from 20 to 28 mm. The North Interlake area such as Arborg, Fisherton, Gimli, and Moosehorn had less than 20 mm of rainfall. Excess moisture remains a concern in some areas withstanding water visible in some fields. Crops are behind due to wet and cool weather and some plants are yellowing due to excess moisture. 

Most areas are wrapping up on seeding. Conditions for germination and emergence have been good for most crops. Soybean and canola growth has been slow due to wet conditions and lack of heat. Producers continue to spray when the weather allows but strong winds have continued to be a concern, interfering with spraying operations. 

Cereal crops in general appear to be in good condition. Most spring wheat is at four to six leaf stage, with 2 or 3 tillers. Oats are at a similar leaf stage. The most advanced spring wheat is elongating and at flag stage. Barley is at 3-leaf stage. Herbicide application in early seeded spring wheat is almost done. Winter wheat growth stages have advanced to full head emergence with no reports of Fusarium head blight concerns. Peas are looking good and are at 8 to 10 node stage. Fall Rye has headed and is at the soft dough stage. 

Early seeded canola is at rosette to bolting stages. Many fields have uneven germination, due to flea beetles and cutworm damage and seeds stranded in moist soil. 

The most advanced fields are in the second to third trifoliate in the southern parts of the region. There have been comments about slow crop emergence and stand losses due to seedling disease in earlier planted soybean fields. Iron deficiency chlorosis has started to show in some fields. 

Sunflowers have emerged nicely and are in good condition at V4 to V6 stage, and most have received herbicide application. Flax has emerged; the stands look great with the growth stage ranging from cotyledon to the first and second pairs of true leaves unfolding. Some flax is up to 15 cm tall. Most advanced corn is at V4 to V5. Both silage and grain corn are looking good. Most have received a first herbicide application. 

Weed pressures are increasing but herbicide spraying continues to be a challenge due to windy conditions. Herbicide applications on wheat and corn are ongoing and are about 40 per cent complete. Producers are hoping for warm and sunny conditions so they can make further progress on spraying.

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Cereals 

Most of the fall rye is at full head emergence, and winter wheat is in late boot to early head emergence.

Spring wheat seeding is at 98 per cent complete, barley and oats are 97 per cent complete across the province.

Most early seeded spring wheat is in the 3 to 5 leaf stage and tillering.

Grain corn planting is 98 per cent complete with most of the early planted corn at V3 to V6 stage.

Herbicide applications are ongoing. 

Oilseeds

Canola planting is 88 per cent complete across the province, with the most advanced canola in the 2 to 4 leaf stage.

Sunflower planting is at 61 per cent completion across the province, with the earliest seeded sunflowers at the cotyledon to first true leaf stage.

Flax is at 76 per cent completion across the province with most emerged. The most advanced flax has 2 pairs of true leaves.

Flea beetle activity has increased in some areas, and some foliar insecticide applications have been conducted.

Pulses and Soybeans

Field pea planting is at 97 per cent completion across the province, with most fields in the 3 to 6 node stage.

Soybean planting is at 92 per cent completion across the province, with the most advanced fields at the first trifoliate stage.

Dry bean planting is at 86 per cent completion across the province.

Forages and Livestock

Forages
Hay and pasture fields are rapidly growing with good moisture conditions, but warmer weather will aid in faster growth. Many low spots still have standing water.

Bromes and ryegrasses are tillering to heading. Alfalfa is in late bud to early flowering. Tame hay and alfalfa growth is now up to more than 26 inches.

Silaging has begun for dairy producers.

Livestock
Most cattle are on pasture and are making the most of strong pasture growth due to the moist soil conditions.

In areas with heavy rainfall, pastures are saturated or have standing water, and cattle are being moved to higher ground in areas where they may cause damage on waterlogged soils.

Breeding season has begun on some farms, with bulls being placed with cow herds.

Producers are checking their fences and carrying out necessary maintenance work ahead of the grazing
season. Cattle vaccination is underway. Calving has all but wrapped up.

Producers are attempting to control fly numbers on pasture and are looking for pink eye and foot rot where conditions remain wet underfoot.

Dugouts are full.

Regional Comments

Southwest
Temperatures have been variable during the week, with average temperatures ranging from 12 to 15 C. Growing degree days (GDD) and Corn Heat Units (CHU) are slightly below normal for this time of year. Wind damage to some crops has been reported, especially in lighter soils. Moisture conditions are normal to above normal. There is standing water in low areas of fields, but no major damage to the crops has been reported.

Seeding is 95 per cent complete, with some areas still reporting some canola to be planted as well as some greenfeed acres. Emergence is good in most areas and for most crops. Most cereals are in the 3 to 5 leaf stage and tillering. Peas are in the 3 to 6 node stage. Soybeans are emerging to the first trifoliate, with reports of wind damage. Canola is emerging to 2 to 3 leaves. Some flea beetle damage is beginning; however, little to no spraying has been done. Cool, windy conditions have slowed corn and sunflower development.

Herbicides are being applied in most areas, weather permitting, with about 25 per cent completion on average for the region. Windy conditions have made it difficult to spray. Some reports of cutworm damage in canola have been received. Producers are scouting and planning to spray for control. Diamondback moth and flea beetle numbers are low in the region so far.

Northwest
Cool, cloudy and windy conditions for most of the week along with scattered showers. Warm temperatures would benefit established crops as well as dry out fields that are too wet. Seeding is continuing where possible, with some acres being seeded around potholes. Strong winds have been a challenge for herbicide application. There are some reports of poor germination and soil crusting. Evidence of moisture stress in some crops in standing water.

Winter wheat and fall rye have begun heading. Approximately 92 per cent of spring wheat is seeded and the earliest seeded wheat is tillering. Some in-crop herbicide applications as appropriate stages are reached.

Canola seeding is ongoing. Canola is approximately 80-85 per cent complete, with further progress in the Roblin and Swan River areas. Stages of canola are varied due to the challenges of seeding this spring. Most advanced canola is at the 2 to 4 leaf stage. Flea beetle activity has increased and additional control has been required. There has been some reseeded canola due to damage.

Soybean crops continue to emerge and most advanced soybeans are in the unifoliate stage. Field pea seeding is complete and most fields have emerged.

Central
The week was cool, windy and cloudy with scattered showers. The most rain fell in the central part of the region, the northwest and southeast of the central region received less precipitation. Planting progressed rapidly this past week due to high winds allowing soils to dry sufficiently for planting and other field operations to take place. There is still water in low spots in some fields, with crops undergoing visible water stress. The cooler temperatures are slowing crop growth, and many crops are more advanced developmentally than they may at first appear given their height. 

Spring wheat, barley and oat seeding is complete. Cereals are tillering, with in crop herbicide applications taking place as conditions allow. Fall rye is headed out and winter wheat is at the booting stage. Field peas have emerged, with most between the 3 to 6 node stage. Soybeans are 95% planted, with most emerged to the unifoliate stage. Much edible bean planting occurred over the week, with 95% now planted. Canola is at 95 per cent complete, with most between the cotyledon and the first true leaf stage. Flax planting is complete, with most of the crop emerged. Sunflower seeding progress is complete, with most from the cotyledon to first true leave stage. Silage and grain corn is complete, with most at 3 to 6 leaf stage. 

The stage of each crop varies greatly, with crops around the RM of Portage la Prairie generally at a younger developmental stage than crops in the southeast of the region which are the most advanced, especially in the RMs of Rhineland, Montcalm, and Stanley. Weeds continue to appear as ample moisture has aided germination; however, the cold weather has slowed the speed of weed growth and development. Herbicide applications and spot spraying are taking place to control weeds at the desired growth stage, but this has been challenging at times with persistent high winds and regular rainfall. The high winds have resulted in some drift issues on emerged crops. 

Both striped and cruciferous flea beetles are consuming canola seedlings, which in some cases has met the threshold for foliar insecticide applications. Cool temperatures are also keeping canola in the vulnerable stages longer than usual. Cutworms are sporadically affecting canola and sunflower crops, at times meeting the threshold for spraying. Diamondback moths have been found at moderate levels in monitoring traps across the central region, with Rosenfeld seeing the largest overall cumulative count in Manitoba. Grasshopper nymphs have emerged. A small number of seed corn maggots have been reported in sunflowers, but no serious damage. 

Tan spot is appearing in wheat fields, likely supported by the cool, damp weather this spring. 

Eastern
Rainfall accumulations ranged from less than 10 mm to over 25 mm with the bulk of the rain falling last Tuesday. The highest accumulations tended to occur in central and southern districts and varied from heavy downpours to light drizzle. Nighttime temperatures were cool resulting in slower crop emergence, particularly for warm season crops. Reduced heat accumulation has slowed plant development as well. Standing water persists in many fields across the region and some cereal crops continue to show yellowing in low areas. 

With the additional rainfall, producers struggled to make progress on seeding, spraying and field work activities. Seeding resumed toward the end of the week and over the weekend, but conditions were not ideal with producers working around wet areas of fields and monitoring their land carefully to not miss any opportunities. At this point many producers expect some unseeded acres to remain. Fields are being harrowed multiple times and, in some cases, crop residues like corn stover are being burnt off to speed soil drying. 

Fall rye is at partial to full head emergence. Winter wheat ranged from late boot to early head emergence. Crop conditions were rated as good overall. Spring seeding is around 80 per cent complete across the region although individual producer progress varies from some not started to others finished and well into herbicide applications. Approximately 95 per cent of spring wheat and oats are seeded, and approximately 15 to 20 per cent of early seeded spring wheat has received a first pass of herbicide. Early seeded wheat is in the four-leaf stage with two or three tillers and in good condition. Grain corn planting is complete with unseeded acres being switched to other crop types. Some early seeded corn is at the V2 stage. Corn herbicide applications have begun. 

Approximately 90 per cent of soybean acres have been planted as producers rushed to finish before MASC seeding deadlines. Remaining acres will be switched to other crop types if weather allows. Relatively slow emergence and stand losses due to seedling disease have been noted on some early planted soybean fields. About 80 per cent of canola acres were planted with further canola seeding becoming a major focus of growers this week. Early seeded soybeans were in the cotyledon to unifoliate leaf stage while canola ranged from emergence/cotyledon to the first true leaf stage. A very limited amount of herbicide applications on soybeans and canola had occurred. Sunflower planting is complete with unseeded acres being switched to other crop types if weather allows. Total canola acres are expected to increase with producers and agronomists viewing canola as the go to switch crop for unseeded acres. A limited amount of insecticide application to control flea beetles on early seeded canola continues to occur. Early seeded field peas ranged from 3 to 5 nodes as growers were making every effort to apply herbicides before the crop was beyond stage. Flax crop growth stage ranged from cotyledon to the first and second pairs of true leaves unfolding. 

Interlake
Scattered showers and thundershowers continued this past week, with variability in rainfall amounts across the Interlake region. Excess water stress on crops has been reported in some areas. Winds have continued to be strong, drying out the soil surface and interfering with spraying operations. 

Seeding conditions were not ideal due to wet fields, with standing water in low areas. Limited seeding progress across the region last week but seeding resumed this Monday. Some producers are seeding around potholes and wet areas, broadcasting seed and harrowing. Seeding in the region is estimated to be 79 per cent complete. The South Interlake area is estimated to be 85-90 per cent complete, while the North Interlake is approximately 35-50 per cent complete. 

Cereal crops are estimated at 90 per cent complete in the South Interlake and 70 per cent complete in the North Interlake. Most early seeded spring wheat is in the 2 to 4 leaf stage, and starting to tiller, with some as advanced as 5 to 6-leaf. Oats and barley are at similar leaf stages. Peas are estimated to be 65 per cent complete and are as advanced as the 3rd to 4th node. Grain corn is about 95 per cent complete in most parts of the Interlake region and is at V2 to V3. 

Canola is estimated to be 40 per cent complete. Canola is in cotyledon to 2 leaf stage, with some fields more advanced, and many fields have uneven germination. Soybeans are estimated to be 40 per cent complete, and most are in the cotyledon to unifoliate stage. The most advanced fields are in the early 2nd trifoliolate. Sunflowers are estimated to be 50 per cent complete and have emerged. Flax has emerged and the stands look great. 

Some reseeding of canola in the South Interlake. Reseeding is not as widespread as expected but fields continue to be monitored for moisture stress and uneven emergence. 

Weed pressure is high due to wet conditions. Spraying continues to be a challenge due to strong winds and wet field conditions and progress for some has been limited. Spot spraying continues in wild oat patches in canola and soybean fields. Herbicide applications on wheat and corn have started in the last couple days in the South Interlake area. 

Diamondback moth trap numbers are moderate, but variable due to the fluctuating temperatures and winds. True armyworm counts remain low in the South Interlake area. There is low flea beetle pressure in the region but fields are being closely monitored. No reports of spraying for flea beetles in early seeded canola. Producers are encouraged to scout their fields for flea beetle pressure.

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Cereals 

Fall rye and winter wheat fields range from stem elongation to booting, with the earliest fall rye heading. Spring wheat seeding is at 94 per cent complete, barley seeding is at 88 per cent and oats is at 87 per cent across the province.

The most advanced spring wheat has three to four leaves and two tillers.

Grain corn planting is 95 per cent complete with most of the early planted corn at V3 stage.

Oilseeds

Canola planting is at 71 per cent completion across the province, and ranges from cotyledon to two true leaves.

Sunflower planting is at 53 per cent completion across the province, with the earliest seeded sunflowers at the cotyledon to first true leaf stage.

Flax is at 64 per cent completion across the province.

Pulses and Soybeans

Field pea planting is at 97 per cent completion across the province, with the earliest fields at the three to five node stage.

Soybean planting is at 82 per cent completion across the province, with the most advanced fields at the unifoliate stage.

Dry bean planting is at 66 per cent completion across the province.

Forages and Livestock

Forages
There is strong growth in pastures and hayfields, but warmer weather will aid in faster growth. Hay fields and pasture are both in good shape, there is standing water and limited access in some areas.

Bromes and ryegrasses are tillering. Tame hay growth is now up to more than 16 inches, and alfalfa
stands are about 14 inches tall.

Some dairy farms have taken their first cut of alfalfa silage, for others the first cut of alfalfa will likely begin within the next two weeks.

Livestock
Most cattle are on pasture, remaining animals will be moved as soon as conditions permit.

In areas with heavy rainfall, pastures are saturated or have standing water, and cattle are being moved to
higher ground in areas where they may cause damage on waterlogged soils.

Breeding season has begun on some farms, with bulls being placed with cow herds.

Producers are checking their fences and carrying out necessary maintenance work ahead of the grazing season. Cattle vaccination is underway. Calving has all but wrapped up. Dugouts are full and water levels are currently adequate.

Regional Comments

Southwest
Showers last week in most areas of the region affected seeding progress. Higher temperatures compared to the previous week helped fields dry down faster, and producers were able to make progress with seeding. Warm temperatures are needed to facilitate rapid growth in most crops.

Seeding is 80 to 85 per cent complete in the southwest region, with most producers working on canola, dry bean, and soybean acres. Cereals are 90 to 95 per cent complete, with the early seeded cereals at the three to four leaf stage and later seeded cereals emerging well. Canola is 70 to 75 per cent complete and ranges from emerging to the cotyledon stage. Peas are 95 to 100 per cent complete and are at the 4 to 5 node stage. Flax is 80 to 85 per cent complete and sunflowers are 85 to 90 per cent complete. Soybeans are 85 to 90 per cent complete and are emerging. Grain and silage corn are 90 per cent complete, and ranges from emerging to the V2 stage. Winter cereals are progressing well, fall rye is at the boot stage.

Weeds have been slow to grow, but trouble spots of wild oats are emerging with one leaf or more. Broadleaf weeds such as lambs’ quarters, cleavers, and volunteer canola are starting to emerge. Some herbicide applications have been carried out. Spraying activity will increase throughout the week and is expected to be widespread by the weekend or early next week. Diamondback moth traps have been deployed, but moth numbers are minimal. Flea beetles are present but in low numbers so far, and there have been no reports of any grasshoppers yet.

Northwest
A mix of sunshine, rain and strong winds this week. Some seeding progress was made, but some areas were once again held up by rain. Full activity resumed midweek only to be interrupted by rain again across the region on Thursday. Warmer temperatures and very strong winds allowed progress to resume on the weekend. The entire Northwest region has received over 100 per cent of normal rainfall to date, with some areas receiving over 200 per cent of normal rainfall. Crops are still requiring heat to get a jump on growth. Some standing water in low areas of fields, with some fields being slow to germinate with the cool, wet conditions. Soil crusting has also been noted as an issue in some fields.

Field pea seeding is complete. Most fields have emerged, and earliest seeded fields are V2-V3 stage. Spring wheat seeding is 90 per cent complete. Earliest seeded wheat is approaching tillering stage and looks good.

Canola seeding was able to progress across some of the region in between rains. Progress is approximately 75 per cent complete, with further progress in Roblin and Swan River areas. Earliest seeded canola is cotyledon to two true leaves.

Soybean seeding is complete, and the earliest seeded fields have started to emerge. Winter wheat and Fall rye crops are growing nicely.

Central
Most of the rain last week fell in the center part of the region, with the northwest part of the region receiving the least precipitation. Entering last week, some fields still had patches of standing water from the precipitation on May 24 and 25. The degree to which fields were affected varied greatly due to topography, soil type, the volume of rainfall received, and if producers were able to successfully drain water off. In areas where moisture infiltrated quickly crop damage was minimal, however where waterlogged conditions persisted for multiple days producers may see a reduction in yield, and in extreme cases dead patches within the field. It is likely that some fields will be reseeded as necessary. 

Despite the rainfall events, planting and other field operations have taken place. Seeding has progressed with almost all spring wheat, barley and oats seeded, with the earliest tillering. Fall rye and winter wheat are between stem elongation and booting. Field peas are emerging, with the earliest at the three to five node stage. Soybeans are at 80 per cent, with many emerging, but the most advanced at the unifoliate stage. Much progress with edible beans, with approximately 65 per cent planted. Canola is at 80 per cent complete, with much of the earlier planted canola at the cotyledon to first true leaf stage. Flax is 95 per cent planted, with most of the crop emerging. Sunflower seeding progress is at 90 per cent, with the earliest now at the cotyledon to first true leave stage. Silage and grain corn are at 95 per cent complete, with most of the early planted corn at the V2 to V4 stage. 

The proportion of each crop seeded varies greatly at the local level across the region, with percentage of crops in the ground generally lowest in the north around the RM of Portage la Prairie, and highest around the RMs of Rhineland, Montcalm, and Stanley. 

Weeds continue to appear and grow, although the cold weather has slowed weed growth. Herbicide applications and spot spraying are taking place to control weeds at the desired growth stage, but this has been challenging at times with the rainfall. High winds have created some drift issues on emerged crops. 

Both striped and cruciferous flea beetles are consuming volunteer canola seedlings and flixweed. Overall flea beetle numbers seem to be lower than often seen in previous years, although damage is still occurring. Small numbers of diamondback moths have been found in monitoring traps across the Central region, but none at levels which would indicate a concern at this stage. Grasshopper nymphs have emerged. A small number of seed corn maggots have been reported in sunflowers, but no serious damage. 

Eastern
Rainfall accumulations across the Eastern Region last week ranged from 10 to over 40 mm with most areas getting 20 mm plus. Standing water remains evident in some fields across the region, particularly in northern and some central districts. Some emerged cereal fields are yellowing in low areas. Across the region, most fields are currently saturated and inaccessible. Windy conditions persisted on most days of the reporting period. 

Given the weather conditions, producers struggled to make progress on seeding, spraying and field work activities. Fields were inaccessible for most of last week with producers starting to make progress at the end of the week and over the weekend before rainfall events on Sunday and early Monday morning. Seeding conditions were not ideal with producers working around wet areas of fields and monitoring their land carefully to not miss any opportunities. Most producers will have to remain off fields for anywhere from a couple of days to a full week although some who experienced lower amounts of rainfall on better drained soil textures will be attempting to get crops like soybeans in the ground before AgriInsurance deadlines. 

Winter cereal stands were growing well as stem elongation continued, and some fall rye fields are heading. Crop conditions were mostly good with herbicide applications almost complete. Overall, spring seeding was around 75 per cent complete across the region although individual producer progress varied from some not started to others finished and moving on to herbicide application. Approximately 95 per cent of spring wheat and oats have been seeded, and approximately 5 per cent of early seeded spring wheat has received a first pass of herbicide. Early seeded wheat is in the three to four leaf stage with two tillers and in good condition. Delays in field access going forward could see the remaining spring wheat and oats acres switched to other crop types. Grain corn planting was about 85 per cent complete with unseeded acres likely being switched to other crop types. Some early seeded corn was at the V2 growth stage. 

Approximately 65 per cent of soybean acres have been planted across the region. Early seeded soybeans were in the emergence/cotyledon to early unifoliate leaf stage. Canola is at 70 per cent completion, and ranges from emergence/cotyledon to the early first true leaf stage. Sunflower planting is about 80 per cent complete with unseeded acres likely being switched to other crop types. Soybean acres are expected to be reduced although producers are trying to get more acres in as soon as possible. Total canola acres are expected to increase with producers and agronomists viewing canola as the go to switch crop for unseeded acres. A few insecticide applications to control flea beetles on early seeded canola have occurred. 

Interlake
Warm and sunny conditions over the past week allowed for continued seeding progress, although rainfall over the weekend halted field activities. Soil moisture varies from adequate to very wet depending on the area and several drying days will be required before seeding resumes. Field conditions continue to be variable with standing water in low areas of fields. Some harrowing was done to dry out fields for planting. Soil temperatures at seeding depth averaged 15 C. 

Overall seeding progress is estimated to be 60 per cent complete, with Southern Interlake 60-75 per cent complete, and North Interlake 20-30 per cent complete. Spring wheat, oats and barley are about 80 per cent seeded across the region. Spring wheat is generally in the three-leaf stage, with barley and oats emerging to two leaf stage. Some of the earliest seeded fields have uneven emergence, but in general emergence is good. Some cereal crops are exhibiting minor symptoms of excess moisture stress. 

Canola is estimated at 30 per cent complete, and emerged fields are in the cotyledon to first true leaf stage. Sunflower is estimated to be 40 per cent complete. Peas are 60 per cent complete, and earlier seeded fields are in the two to three node stage. 

Soybeans are estimated to be 40 per cent complete, and earlier seeded fields are emerging. If producers are not able to get into the field this week, some may consider switching to other crops due to approaching AgriInsurance seeding deadlines. Grain corn is estimated to be 90 per cent complete. Unplanted corn acres may be switched to other crop types. Earlier seeded corn is starting to emerge with some in the V1 stage. 

Weeds are advanced due to the rainfall and spraying has been delayed due to windy conditions. Flea beetles have been seen in fields, but no reports of spraying for flea beetles at this time. Moderate numbers of diamondback moths and true army worm have been found in traps across the region.

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Cereals 

Winter cereal fertilizer applications are complete with field survival at 85-95 per cent and only a few fields terminated. Winter cereal stands are growing rapidly and tillering in the warm temperatures with fields greening up dramatically.

Cereals in the Central region are the most advanced with much of the early seeded cereals at the five-leaf stage with one tiller.

Spring wheat seeding is at 87 per cent complete, barley seeding is at 79 per cent and oats is at 76 per cent across the province.

Grain corn planting is 80 per cent complete with most of the early planted corn at V3 stage.

Oilseeds

Both canola and sunflower planting is at 41 per cent completion across the province.

Pulses and Soybeans

Field pea planting is at 96 per cent completion across the province, soybean planting is at 55 per cent completion across the province and dry bean planting is at 24 per cent completion across the province.

Forages & Livestock

Forages
Rains throughout the week and over the weekend are stimulating pasture growth and the landscape is green. Hay fields and pasture are both in good shape with standing water in some areas.

Tame hay growth is now up to 16 inches. Pastures and alfalfa are quickly greening up and will make use of the current availability of moisture.

All low-lying areas and ditches have water standing/flowing. Alfalfa stands are about 12-inches tall and dense. Most bromes and ryegrasses are building up steam and tillering.

Livestock
Several beef cattle operations have animals fully on pasture and others are making the move as weather conditions permit.

Most cattle have entered some kind of pastures to avoid the mud which has appeared in the overwintering areas and to make the most of the strong pasture growth. In some cases, there may be enough growth to meet livestock nutritional needs, but supplementary feeding is still taking place on some farms. Producers are checking their fences and carrying out necessary maintenance work ahead of the grazing season. Cattle vaccination is underway. Calving is ongoing but will wrap up by the end of the month.

Dugouts are full and water levels are currently adequate.

Regional Comments

Southwest
A major rain swept through parts of the Southwest region this past week, filling up the soil profile and accumulating in low spots. Most fields are saturated with moisture and temperatures have been generally cooler than normal due to the rainfall events. There were no reports of hail, but there were reports of snow in the Turtle Mountain and Brandon areas. 

Seeding for the region is estimated to be 67 per cent complete, with most producers now planting canola, dry beans, and soybean acres. Cereals are 85-90 per cent complete, with the early-seeded crops being at single leaf to three leaf stages in the field, and crops seeded later are just emerging. Winter cereals are at the booting stage. 

Peas are 95-100 per cent complete and are at 3-4 nodes on average. Canola is 45-50 per cent complete, soybeans 65-70 per cent complete, and flax at 50-60 per cent complete. Canola and soybeans are on average just emerging, and corn is between emerging to V1. Grain and silage corn are 80 per cent complete. 

Flea beetles are present but in low numbers so far, and there are no reports of any grasshoppers yet. There are some reports of unexpected gopher damage in crops this year. 

Rainfall has brought on a strong flush of weeds. Wild oat is present at two leaf stage, kochia the size of dimes, buckwheat at two leaf, green/yellow foxtail at single leaf and emerging, roundleaf mallow at 2 leaf, winter annuals like flixweed and foxtail are rather large now and flowering or booting, and downy brome has headed out. 

Northwest
Frequent rains and cooler weather made for a slower week of progress. Unsettled weather Friday brought precipitation in forms of rain/snow. Swan River and The Pas precipitation was mainly rain, while the rest of the region experienced snow. Accumulated rainfall from the week has left some areas with standing water in fields. Highest accumulated amounts of precipitation were in the McCreary and Amaranth regions with 66 mm. Lowest precipitation amounts for this week was The Pas with 6 mm. Some hail was reported in the Roblin area. The recent precipitation has caused excess moisture concerns in the Dauphin/Ste. Rose/Grandview areas. Warm, dry conditions are needed as there are seeded and unseeded fields with surplus moisture. 

Plant growth in recently emerged crops has been slow due to cool temperatures. Weed and volunteer growth is slower as well. Herbicide applications will be a challenge in areas due to saturated field conditions. Overall seeding progress across the region is at 56 per cent compete. 

Field pea seeding has pretty much wrapped up with progress approximately 99% complete. Earliest seeded field peas are beginning V2 stage. Later seeded field peas are emerging. 

Spring wheat seeding is 80-85 per cent complete. Earliest seeded wheat is emerged and growing nicely. 

Canola seeding progress is slower this week and is at 30 per cent complete. Some of the earliest seeded canola has emerged and is at cotyledon stage. Soybean seeding progress is at 35 per cent complete. Winter wheat and fall rye crops are growing nicely, however there was some reseeding due to winterkill. 

Central
The Central Region received substantial precipitation over the weekend, with the western areas of the region receiving it mainly as snow. Across the region, many fields were left with patches of standing water in them. The degree to which fields were affected varied greatly due to topography, soil type and the volume of rainfall received. Producers across the region are draining water off fields where possible. This process has been made difficult where ditches remain full. In areas where moisture could leave fields or infiltrate quickly crop damage should be minimal. Producers are monitoring the situation in the most extreme cases to determine if any reseeding may be necessary. 

Seeding had progressed prior to the precipitation events with spring wheat, barley, and oats estimated at 92 per cent complete. Much of the early seeded cereals are at the five-leaf stage with one tiller. 

Field peas are emerging and the earliest seeded have reached the two to five leaf stage. Soybean planting is 65 per cent complete, with seedlings starting to emerge. Some of the earliest edible beans were planted ahead of the rains this week and are at 30 per cent complete. 

Canola seeding is at 55 per cent complete and the earliest planted has reached the cotyledon stage. Flax is 90 per cent planted, with most of the crop now emerging. Sunflower seeding progress is at 60 per cent, with the earliest now at the cotyledon stage. Silage and grain corn are at 80 per cent complete, with most of the early planted corn at the three-leaf stage. Potato planting is approximately 85 per cent, with the earliest fields just beginning to emerge. Dry bean planting is approximately 30 per cent complete. 

The proportion of each crop seeded varies greatly at the local level across the region, with percentage of crops in the ground generally lowest in the north around the RM of Portage la Prairie, and highest around the RMs of Rhineland, Montcalm, and Stanley. 

Eastern
Rainfall accumulations across the Eastern region last week ranged from 30 to over 50 mm with severe downpours in some localized areas resulting in higher precipitation. Most of this rainfall occurred on Friday and Saturday of last week. Standing water remains evident in fields across the region with low lying areas more extensively flooded. In lower rainfall areas some receding of standing water has become evident over the last 24 hours but fields in all areas are thoroughly saturated and inaccessible. 

Given the weather conditions, producers struggled to make progress on seeding, spraying and field work activities. Fields remained off limits for some last week while others had access for a limited time although seeding conditions were not ideal. Producers worked around wet areas of fields and monitored their land carefully to not miss opportunities to make progress. Producers will have to remain off fields for much of this week. Those who experienced lower amounts of rainfall are hoping to get at least limited access to better drained fields by the end of the week and are making plans accordingly assuming good drying conditions going forward. While standing water is evident in fields, it is too early to assess how much damage, if any, has occurred to emerged plant stands and whether reseeding will be necessary. A great deal depends on the weather this week. Some producers were out making impromptu drainage channels with all-terrain vehicles and tractors over the weekend to try and speed up field recovery. 

Winter cereal stands continued to grow well with stem extension advancing rapidly on most fields. Crop conditions were mostly good with herbicide applications about 70 per cent complete until weather halted progress. Overall, spring seeding was around 70 per cent complete across the region although individual producer progress varied from some not started to others who finished up early last week. Approximately 90 per cent of spring wheat and oats are seeded and barley seeding is complete. Early seeded wheat was in the two to three leaf stage with tiller. Delays in field access could see the remaining spring wheat and oat acres get switched to other crop types. At this point, about 80 per cent of grain corn was seeded and unplanted corn acres may soon be switched to other crop types. Some earlier seeded corn was in the V1 stage. 

Approximately 60 per cent of soybean acres, 75 per cent of sunflower acres and 55 per cent of canola acres were planted across the region by the time field operations were shut down last week. Given the challenges with field access, remaining sunflower acres may be switched out for other crop types. Soybean acres may also be reduced although producers will be putting a lot of emphasis on getting remaining soybean acres planted as conditions allow. Total canola acres may see an increase with producers and agronomists viewing canola as the go to switch crop when looking for a home for unseeded acres. Some reports of canola emerging and in the cotyledon growth stage. 

Interlake
Most areas in the Interlake region reported rain and cool temperatures last week. Rain seemed to occur each day of the week with the highest amounts occurring in the South Interlake region. Rainfall accumulations ranged from 35- 52 mm with the majority coming between Friday and Saturday. Wet conditions are still the major problem in areas of the region, sunny weather conditions on Sunday were inadequate for drying. 

Seeding progress was made last week until Friday and Saturday’s rain. Seeding will be stalled until fields are dry enough to access. Standing water has been noted on some fields. 

Progress is more advanced in the South Interlake with some variations in seeding progress due to soil conditions and locations. Growers in Riverton and north of Arborg have not seeded since May 14. Some producers in this area have stated they won’t be seeding again until sometime in June. 

Across the region overall seeding progress is 48 per cent complete. Cereals are about 70 per cent complete, corn at 80 per cent and soybean at 25 per cent. Canola is about 20 per cent complete. Early seeded wheat is at the two-leaf stage, with a few reports of early 3-leaf stage. Emergence appears relatively even. Barley and oats are emerging to early two leaf stage. 

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Weeds are quickly appearing in fields including kochia, volunteer canola and wheat, flixweed, fleabane, foxtail barley, redroot pigweed, lamb’s quarters, thistles, and dandelions. Growers are encouraged to scout and use burn-off products to control weeds and use PRE-emergent products with residual control. 

Cereals 

• Winter cereal fertilizer applications are complete with field survival at 85-95% and only a few fields terminated. Winter cereal stands were growing rapidly and tillering in the warm temperatures with fields greening up dramatically.
• Spring wheat and barley are sitting at 58 per cent complete across the province with the Central region being the most advanced at 80 per cent complete. Early planted fields have started to emerge.
• Grain corn planting is 60 per cent complete.

Oilseeds

• Canola planting is at 6 per cent completion across the province.
• Sunflower planting is at 13 per cent completion across the province.
  

Pulses and Soybeans

• Field pea planting is at 72 per cent completion across the province.
• Soybean planting is at 15 per cent completion across the province with the Central region at 30 per cent.

Forages and Livestock

Forages
Recent rains have helped stimulate pasture growth and the landscape is greening up nicely. Hay fields are in good shape, although icy conditions experienced this winter may have taken their toll on alfalfa plants in some locations. Those producers experiencing substantial winterkill are planting annual crops such as corn and sudan grass to offset the potential loss in feed production. Fertilization of hay and pasture acres is nearly complete.

Hay and feed supplies are normal, but there will be limited feed carryover. Pastures and alfalfa are quickly greening up and will make use of the current availability of moisture. Fertilization and manure applications of hay stands are continuing.

Livestock
Several beef cattle operations have made the move to pasture, particularly in the south-east corner of the province. Others located farther north, continue to hold animals in winter feeding areas or on sacrifice pastures to allow the grass more time for growth.

Pasture water supplies are being replenished with the recent rains and are now closer to average. Annual cereals and mixes for feed are seeded and beginning to emerge. Corn planning for silage is just starting. Pastures and hay land are greening up nicely, with dugouts at 95 per cent capacity.

Many producers have adequate feed to last their cattle until summer turnout but will have minimal to no carryover feed.

Regional Comments

Southwest
Significant rainfall occurred early in the week in the Southwest region. Sinclair and Pierson areas received 40 mm of rain, while most other areas on the south and north sides of the region received 20-30 mm. The slow rain replenished subsoil moisture and did not run off, resulting in very little ponding. During the past week, daytime temperatures ranged from 25 to 30 C, while minimum overnight temperatures ranged from 6.2 to -0.8 C, with daily averages around 11.5 to 13.5 C. The high temperatures provided farmers with a good opportunity to make progress in seeding.

Cereal seeding is 30 to 40 per cent complete, and some early-seeded crops are emerging well. Soybeans are 5-7  per cent complete. Pea seeding is 60 per cent complete. Farmers are transitioning to soybean, oat, and corn for the moment as soil temperatures rise. Some acres of grain corn are planted, with forage corn likely to follow. Most farms are conducting burn-offs and using tank mix partners for resistant kochia.

Winter wheat and fall rye are advancing well. Some broadcast fertilizer applications are occurring to cover corn acres with high rates. Hayland is being fertilized, as well as top dressing of winter wheat. There are no insect pests at this stage, but winter annuals like wild oats are emerging.

Northwest 
Precipitation in parts of the Northwest region at the start the week were followed by warm temperatures and high winds to help dry fields. The weather allowed for field preparation, fertilizing, and seeding. Weeds and volunteers are actively growing, however pre-seed herbicide applications were a challenge due to high winds. 

Wildfires sparked in the far north have created smoky conditions in The Pas. Moisture is adequate, however there are fields that are holding water and need good drying conditions. 

Field pea seeding continues with progress at 65-70 per cent complete, with Roblin/Swan River being more advanced. Earliest seeded field peas have germinated and are just beginning to emerge. 

Spring wheat seeding progressed nicely across the region. Progress varies with some operations completed while others are just starting. Overall progress is approximately 65 per cent complete. Earliest seeded wheat has emerged. 

Canola seeding has begun across the region except for The Pas. Soybean seeding is underway in the Swan River and Dauphin area. 

Winter wheat and fall rye crops are looking good, with a small amount of winterkill. 

Central
The week was mostly dry, warm, and windy allowing for much activity to take place. Most of the region received less than 5 mm rainfall, however the southwest part of the region received much more, with Cartwright (32.4 mm), Clearwater (21.7 mm) and Baldur (19.7 mm) receiving the most. Temperatures were warmer, with highs for the week between 26 and 31 C degrees and no frost reported overnight. Over the weekend, smoke from forest fires located around Flin Flon and The Pas drifted across the Central region reducing visibility and air quality. 

Seeding has progressed with spring wheat, barley and oats is at 80 per cent complete. Much of the early seeded cereals are at the one to two leaf stage. Field peas are at 90 per cent, soybeans at 30 per cent and canola at 15 per cent complete in the Central region. Sunflower seeding progress is at 25 per cent complete. The proportion of each crop seeded varies greatly at the local level across the region, with percentage of crops in the ground generally lower in the north of the Central region, and higher in the south. 

Weeds are quickly appearing in fields including kochia, volunteer canola and wheat, flixweed, fleabane, foxtail barley, redroot pigweed, lamb’s quarters, thistles and dandelions. 

Striped flea beetles have been active for a few weeks and cruciferous flea beetles have recently emerged. Small numbers of diamondback moths have been found in monitoring traps across the Central region. 

Eastern
Rainfall accumulations across the Eastern region last week ranged from none to slightly over 10 mm with most areas experiencing less than 5 mm of rainfall. Daytime and nighttime temperatures last week were above normal reaching a peak of 30 C on Saturday. However, temperatures rapidly dropped to below seasonal on Sunday and Monday with nighttime lows close to freezing. 

Producers made rapid progress on seeding and field work activities. Field accessibility improved dramatically, and seedbed moisture levels were sufficient to excellent at seeding depth. Soil temperatures were adequately warm and the seeding of more sensitive crop types such as soybeans has begun. 

Winter cereal fertilizer applications are complete with field survival at 95 per cent and only a few fields terminated. Winter cereal stands are growing rapidly and tillering in the warm temperatures with fields greening up dramatically as compared to the previous week. 

Overall, spring seeding is around 40 per cent complete with approximately 70 per cent of spring wheat and oat acres in the ground. Some very early seeded wheat has emerged and is in the one to two leaf stage. As well, about 55 per cent of corn acres has been planted with most producers concentrating on getting their corn and cereal acres in first. 

The limited acres of field peas grown in the region were also seeded last week. Approximately 15 per cent of soybean acres, 20 per cent of sunflower acres and 5 per cent of canola acres were planted across the region. If the weather allows, this week will see a big push by producers on soybean and sunflower acres with canola acres following close behind. Rain in the forecast may delay seeding. 

Interlake
Wet and rainy weather continued during the week in most parts of the Interlake region. Rainfall amounts varied from 5 to 30 mm depending on location. Strong winds over the weekend helped to dry fields. 

Corn seeding is approximately 50 per cent complete, field peas at 35 per cent and spring cereals at 25 per cent across the region. Seeding progress is further advanced in the south Interlake with corn seeding estimated at 60 per cent, soybeans at 15 per cent, peas at 40 per cent and spring cereals at 40 per cent. With soil conditions improving, more seeding progress is expected in the northern parts of the Interlake. 

Top dressing of alfalfa, hay, and forage grasses is occurring. Winter cereal fertilizer applications are ongoing. Winter wheat and fall rye fields are well established across the Interlake region with high survival rates. Fertilizer application progress in the Arborg area is about 10 per cent complete. Field operations including tillage, harrowing and herbicide application on established alfalfa seed fields are ongoing in the Northern part of the region. 

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Cereals 

Winter wheat and fall rye survival is decent, with most producers observing winter cereal survival to be 80 – 90 per cent. Most producers have completed fertilizer applications in their winter cereals.

Spring wheat and barley are sitting at 9 per cent complete across the province with the Central region being the most advanced at 12 per cent complete. Earliest planted fields have started to emerge.

Oilseeds

No significant acres of oilseed crops planted to date. 

Pulses and Soybeans 

Field pea planting is at 11 per cent complete across the province. The Northwest region is the most advanced at 25 per cent complete and the Southwest region is at 7 per cent complete.

A few reports of soybeans being planted where soil conditions have been suitable.

Forages and Livestock

Forages
Recent rains have helped stimulate pasture growth and the landscape is beginning to green-up. Hay fields are in good shape, although icy conditions experienced this winter may have taken their toll on alfalfa plants in some locations.

Some producers have begun spreading fertilizer on their hay fields. Pastures and hayfields are starting to green up.

Alfalfa fields are starting to grow but cooler temperatures have slowed the growth rate. Hay quality from these fields may be compromised if significant amounts of alfalfa do not recover.

In the south-east, hog barns have found spreading manure to be a challenge due to moist field conditions.

Some annual cereals for silage/greenfeed are starting to go in.

Livestock
Most cattle remain in their winter-feeding areas. However, a handful of operations have made an early move to pasture, while others have chosen to open small paddocks adjacent to corrals, allowing animals more space and to get them out of the mud.

Many producers have adequate feed to last their cattle until summer turnout but will have minimal to no carryover feed.

Dugouts have been recharged from the recent snowmelt and spring run-off. Water levels are adequate for the time being.

Regional Comments

Southwest
The southwest region had rainy weather conditions during the week. Most areas received 20-30 mm of rain. Killarney and Wawanesa areas received 30-35 mm of rain. This past week saw daytime air temperature up to 20.5 C with overnight temperature down to -2.8 C.

Producers have started seeding in selected fields according to the seedbed conditions. Soil moisture is at optimum levels in most of the region. Eight per cent of spring wheat, 10 per cent of barley, and 7 per cent of peas are planted. Some early-seeded crops have germinated but no emergence being reported yet.

Winter wheat and fall rye crops responded to the recent rains well and growth is looking promising. Fertilizer applications are still ongoing.

Northwest
A good start to the week, with field operations beginning across most of the region. Cool, wet weather set in mid- week bringing precipitation to most of the region. Soil moisture is considered adequate. Most field operations were paused during the rain, although a few were able to resume shortly after. The weekend brought good drying weather as well as good progress to either start or resume operations.

Highest accumulations of rainfall were in Ethelbert at 35 mm and least precipitation was The Pas at 4 mm. Overnight temperatures dipped below 0 C with Alonsa station reporting -3.7 C. With the warm, dry weather over the weekend, most operations are underway now in terms of field preparation, spraying and seeding. There remains some standing water in fields which will require a couple more days of drying.

Field pea seeding is making good progress across most of the region at approximately 25 per cent complete, being more advanced towards Roblin area. 

Spring wheat seeding is also nicely getting started and is approximately 10 per cent complete across the region. 

Winter wheat and fall rye conditions vary across the region. There have been very few claims for winterkill damage. 

Central
The past week was marked by prolonged periods of light rainfall across the Central region. All locations reported at least 14 mm. The extreme southeast of the region received the most rainfall with Windygates, Emerson, Gretna, and Altona all receiving more than 30 mm. These recent rainfalls and cooler temperatures have halted field operations for the time being, with some fields having standing water in low lying areas. 

Although very little seeding progress was made over the past week due to the wet conditions, progress sits at approximately 12 per cent for oats, spring wheat, barley, and peas. A small number of producers have begun to seed canola, corn, and potatoes. The proportion of each crop seeded varies greatly at the local level across the region, with percentage of crops in the ground lower in the northwest and higher in the southeast. 

Winter wheat and fall rye is growing quickly. Most producers have completed fertilizer applications in their winter cereals before the recent rainfall and are observing winter cereal survival to be 80 – 90 per cent. 

Eastern
Rainfall accumulations across the Eastern region last week ranged from 5 to 35 mm with the greatest amounts in the central and southern parts of the region. Daytime temperatures cycled between below normal and normal ranges for this time of year. Nighttime lows started at or near freezing and then rose a few degrees for the remainder of the week. Winds were moderate to strong on most days making for good drying conditions. 

Grain producers made limited progress on seeding and other field operations before rainfall shut things down completely. Activity resumed on Sunday and Monday in some northern districts which had the least amount of rainfall. There have been instances of equipment getting stuck in fields as growers push the limit of what is possible. Some low areas in fields, particularly in central and southern districts have standing water. 

Winter cereal fertilizer applications are almost complete except for a few wet fields. Winter cereal survival is around 95 per cent with only a few fields being terminated. Warmer conditions and a closing window for timely fertilizer application dictated that stand evaluation decisions be made. Most fields display damaged areas that either took longer to green up or have plant mortality and thinner stands. Winter cereal field conditions range from fair to good. 

No more than 5 per cent of spring wheat acres have been planted across the region along with about 2 per cent of corn acres. A few fields of canola and soybeans have also been seeded. 

Interlake
There were scattered showers this past week across the Interlake region. Rainfall accumulation ranged from 20 mm to 25 mm. The southern part of the Interlake region received the most amount of rainfall. Very little field work has been done due to the wet soil conditions. 

Fields are drying up from last week’s showers. Seeding progress across the south Interlake region is about 2 per cent complete with little to no seeding in the central to northern part of the Interlake. Producers are hoping to get started with seeding this week as weather allows. However, most fields need more drying time before seeding will get going. 

Some fertilizer applications are ongoing on winter cereals. Winter cereals fields appear well established across the Interlake region with good survival rate. Fertilizer application progress in the Arborg area is about 3 per cent. There was some fertilizing of forage seed fields, hay stands and winter cereals before the rain last week and will resume rapidly once weather conditions become favourable. Some field operations including tillage, harrowing and herbicide application on established alfalfa fields was observed in the Ashern, Moosehorn and Steeprock areas. 

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Cereals

Winter wheat and fall rye survival is decent, with most producers observing winter cereal survival to be 80-90 per cent. Most producers have completed fertilizer applications in their winter cereals.

Spring wheat and barley is sitting at 4 per cent complete across the province with the central region being the most advanced at 10 per cent complete.

Oilseeds

No oilseed crops planted to date.

Pulses and Soybeans

Field pea planting is at 4 per cent complete across the province. The central region is the most advanced at 10 per cent complete and the southwest region is at 3 per cent complete.

Statistics Canada projected spring seeding report for Manitoba has soybean acres listed at 1.48 million acres.

Forages & Livestock 

Forages
Pastures and hayfields are starting to green up and some alfalfa is coming out of dormancy. However, regrowth is being hampered by cooler and dry conditions. Some fertilization of hay stands is underway.

Hay and pasture stands are rated as being in fair condition with topsoil moisture being mostly adequate.

There have been some reports of winterkill concerns on forage establishment. The number of affected acres is low but may increase as inspections occur.

Livestock
Most cattle remain in their winter-feeding areas, though some operations have opened smaller paddocks adjacent to corrals to allow animals more space and to get them out of the mud. Hay supplies are adequate with some producers expecting to have carry-over for next year.

Water supplies are adequate. Dugouts have been recharged due to snowmelt and spring run-off; however, water levels in some areas are still considered low.

Regional Comments

Southwest
Rain during the week in different parts of the region gave a good moisture boost to soils. Southern parts received the highest amounts, with Minto and Wawanesa area receiving 35 mm and other areas receiving 10-25 mm. Northern areas received a few showers as well. Optimum moisture conditions are reported in most of the region. Temperatures are getting back to normal to above normal during the day, but nighttime temperatures were below zero last week. Windy conditions are helping to dry down the soils quickly.

Some producers have started seeding in southern areas of the region. Cereals and peas are the two major crops producers are seeding first. Total seeding progress is less than 3 per cent at this stage. Producers have been preparing their soils and trying to calibrate their equipment for seeding operations.

Winter wheat and fall rye are coming along nicely. Producers are assessing winterkill in their crops and planning for fertilizer application.

Northwest
A week of warmer, drying weather led to an improvement in field conditions. Some field work has started near the end of last week. Harrowing and fertilizing started over the weekend, however there are still fields with standing water in low areas. A very few select fields have been seeded. Field preparation and fertilizing will continue. Soil moisture at this point is adequate for most of the region.

Fall rye and winter wheat conditions in the region are varied. There has been some winterkill on fall rye in the Swan River area. In areas with adequate snowfall, fall rye and winter cereals have fared well so far.
Seeding of field peas and spring wheat in Dauphin/Swan River area over the weekend. Less than 1% for each crop.

Central
Last week’s dry and windy start gave way to cooler temperatures and light rainfall events over the weekend. The rainfall provided a moisture boost to soils, with the western part of the region experiencing the most precipitation. Rainfall was the highest in Baldur (29.3 mm), and lowest in Altona (9.9 mm). There was much activity in fields over the past two weeks. Recent rainfalls have halted field operations for the time being, with some fields having standing water in low lying areas. This rainfall has been welcomed by most producers and will provide necessary moisture for cash crop establishment and pasture growth. 

Many producers have already seeded cereals and peas, with approximately 10 per cent of oats, spring wheat, barley, and pea already in the ground. The proportion of each crop seeded varies greatly at the local level across the region, with percentage of crop in the ground lower in the northwest and higher in the southeast. A very small number of producers have begun to plant corn (<1%), but the vast majority will not begin until favorable conditions return. 

Winter wheat and fall rye survival is decent, with most producers observing winter cereal survival to be 80 -90 per cent. Most producers have completed fertilizer applications in their winter cereals. 

Eastern
Rainfall accumulations across the Eastern region last week ranged from 8-25 mm. Daytime temperatures started at normal to above normal levels but dropped to below normal and cool for most of the week as rainy conditions moved through. Winds were strong most days as well. 

No field operations are currently occurring. Some fields have standing water in low areas. However, if weather conditions continue to cooperate, fields will dry quickly and allow producers access. 

Winter cereal fertilizer applications are about 80 per cent complete and will resume once weather allows. Winter cereal survival is still being evaluated and the absence of consistent warm temperatures has complicated stand evaluation. While some stands will be fully or partially terminated it appears most fields will continue with their condition ranging from fair to good. About 1 per cent of spring wheat and grain corn acres were planted across the region last week before the rain moved in. Many producers have not started seeding yet. Very little tillage or other field preparation occurred because of soil conditions. 

Interlake
The region received some much needed moisture last week. The south Interlake received about 25 mm of rain last Friday in the St. Andrews area and 20 mm in the Arborg area, delaying the start of field operations. Soil moisture varies from very wet to adequate depending on the area. Temperatures are normal to above normal during the day with average temperature ranging from 3 to 11 C. The Gimli area had night temperatures below 2 C. 

General seeding has not begun in the Interlake region due to moist soil conditions and intermittent rainfall the past week. There was some cereal seeding in Meadows and the southwest corner in the Interlake region. However, most producers are waiting to get good drying conditions to start seeding. Some field work including fertilization of fall rye is ongoing in the Interlake region. Also, some broadcasting of grass seed in the Teulon area.

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Limited harvest progress over the last week due to widespread rainfall across the province. Harvest progress sits at 86 per cent complete across the province, which is ahead of the 5-year average (81 per cent). Harvest has wrapped up for most of the spring cereal crops, with barley at 100 per cent complete, oats at 100 per cent complete and spring wheat at 99 per cent complete. Overall, cereal crops remain in fair to mostly good condition. 

Many corn fields have reached physiological maturity and are drying down. Grain corn harvest has started in the Central region and is sitting at 15 per cent complete and 7 per cent provincially. Canola harvest continues with approximately 87 per cent of the acres being harvested across the province. Soybean fields are mostly in the R8 growth stage with harvest progress sitting at 73 per cent provincially. 

Producers are encouraged to scout their fields for weeds that have escaped control. This is an important part of integrated pest management. Waterhemp has been found in the Central and Eastern regions and producers should seek identification of any unusual pigweeds in their fields. 

Cereals 

Spring wheat yields range from 35 to 80 bu/acre, with highs of 90 bu/acre in areas that received more moisture and lows of 16 bu/acre in drier areas. Protein levels range from 13.5 per cent and higher and grading #1 or #2 Canada. Oat yields range from 80-130 bu/acre, with yield reports of 60 bu/acre in drier areas.

Barley yields range from 70 to 100 bu/acre.

The spring wheat quality is rated as mostly fair to good.

The majority of grain corn has reached maturity. Approximately 15 per cent of grain corn has been harvested in the Central region and 7 per cent provincially. Early yield reports ranging from 80 to 200 bu/acre.

Winter wheat and fall rye are emerging, recent rainfall will help with establishment.

Oilseeds

Canola harvest continues with approximately 87 per cent of acres being harvested provincially. Overall crop condition ranged from fair to mostly good. Reported canola yields range from 20-60 bu/acre.

Flax crop is at stage 12 (seeds ripe). Flax harvest continues with approximately 40 per cent of acres being harvested provincially. Yields range from 20 to 25 bu/acre.

Sunflowers are at the R9 stage, desiccation has occurred on a number of acres.

Pulses and soybeans

Soybeans are mostly in the R8 growth stage, with harvest progress at 73 per cent provincially. Yields have been variable and dependent on summer rainfall. Yield ranges from 20 to 30 bu/acre on the earliest harvested fields to 30 to 60 bu/acre on fields harvested over the last week.

Dry bean harvest is approximately 96 per cent complete. Yield ranges from 1200 to 2500 lbs/acre.

Forages & livestock 

Forages
Corn silage harvest is largely complete in eastern Manitoba. Reports on yield have been very good. Beef producers continue to work on second cut from fields that are predominantly grass and some have decided to go ahead with second cut harvest of alfalfa stands.

The status of individual pastures remains highly dependent on soil type, moisture levels and grazing management strategy exercised throughout the summer.

Some producers are supplementing hay on pasture to ensure nutrient requirements of cattle are being met. Others are beginning to move cattle onto fenced hay fields or harvested crop land to graze available regrowth and/or stubble. Water levels in dugouts are low but continue to hang on.

Hay levels are rated at 40 per cent surplus, 50 per cent adequate and 10 per cent short. Straw, green feed and feed grains are all rated at 100 per cent adequate.

Corn silage harvest is largely complete in eastern Manitoba. Reports on yield have been very good. Producers who grew corn for silage were quite pleased with their yields as the warm weather early on in  the season kick started most corn into an excellent crop. Corn silage yields are ranging from 13 to 15 tonnes/acre. 

Livestock
Pastures have a new sense of green in the stand due to the recent rainfall. Pasture condition is rated at 100 per cent fair. Herds in good condition. Water supplies are in fair supply, dugouts are 50 per cent capacity.

Bales have been picked from the first cut generally. Souris River is below normal flows, creeks are not flowing. Many annual crop grain fields have lots of regrowth from the combines, would be an opportunity for additional grazing days if it were fenced.

Continuing to haul cattle off pastures to winter accommodations. Hay bales are being hauled off fields.

Proper stocking density and rotational grazing helped some producers extend their grazing season however, even then many producers had to start supplemental feeding early on in the fall. Many producers started off with carryover feed from last year which was beneficial as the hay yield this year was reduced.

Regional comments

Southwest
No harvest activities during last week due to rain fall. Winter cereals and peas are complete. Spring wheat, oats and barley are complete for the most part. Majority of canola has been harvested at 80 per cent. Corn, soybean and sunflower remain in the fields and the remainder of canola. Most other crops have been harvested. Corn silage is 100 per cent complete.

Temperatures were close to normal for this time of year. Windy and cloudy most of the week with widespread rainfall. 20 mm of rain in Reston, Melita and Pierson, 25 mm in Virden, 18mm Souris, 25mm in Hamiota.

Sunflowers are mid R9, but most fields need frost or are two weeks to go before harvest. Canola is mature with green stems. Some hilltops are flowering again within ripe fields. Green stems are not drying down as normal after straight cutting and are hard to harvest. Variable yields depending on rainfall.

Corn is mature with grain moistures ranging from 12-25 per cent; heights are variable due to drought conditions. Most soybeans are R8. Harvest progress is estimated at 55 per cent complete, with some producers just starting and others finished. Early yields reported in the 20 to 45 bu/ac range. Average is expected to end up at 30 to 32 bu/acre range. Some of the later maturing varieties benefited from the late rains.

Northwest
A slow week of harvest progress across the region as rain set in. While some areas were able to work in between rains most areas were shut down. Temperatures for the week were mostly cool, with overnight temperatures dropping down below 0. Fall field work and anhydrous application is occurring as conditions allow.

Spring wheat harvest had another good week of progress, with most areas approximately 99 per cent done. Yields have been ranging from 50-90 bu/acre, while some fields have done poorer and some better. Some spring wheat remains to be harvested in The Pas.

Canola harvest continued over the week and is approximately 90 per cent complete. Yield reports have averaged from 40 to 55 bu/acre, while some crops have yielded below 40 bu/acre and some above 55 bu/acre. Reports of green stems making harvest challenging. 

Soybean harvest progress is approximately 70 per cent complete. There has been some challenges with plants not drying down and staying green. Yields have been average to above average at around 45 to 50 bu/acre, with some yielding lower due to lack of rain. 

Central
Rainfall and heavy morning dews have limited harvest and field operations, with little harvest progress made over the past week. Although initially many producers were grateful for the fall rains replenishing moisture reserves, some producers are now hoping for a period of dry and sunny weather to resume harvest and field work. 

One benefit to the fall rain has been the strong emergence of fall rye, winter wheat, and cover crops. This warmer than typical fall and available moisture has also resulted in a flush of weed seedlings in fields and yards.

Corn harvest is well underway, but the recent rainfall has delayed harvest. Approximately 15 per cent of corn is harvested so far, with the number closer to 20 per cent in the Pembina River Valley, and closer to 10 per cent around Holland and Austin. Fields that have received the least amount of rainfall are in the poorest condition, and yields vary greatly. Some yields are as low as 80 bu/ac to as high as 200 bu/ac depending on how much moisture the crop received throughout the growing season. Moisture is mostly between 14 to 30 per cent. Almost all silage corn fields are now harvested with only a few fields remaining in the north and west of the central region. Silage corn yields have ranged between 13 to 16 tonne/ac. 

Canola harvest is mostly complete in the Pembina Valley and around Carman, with only the odd field yet to be harvested. Around Holland, Austin and Gladstone there remains a greater proportion of the crop yet to be harvested. Yields vary greatly, between 20 and 55 bu/ac, with averages closer to the 30 to 40 bushel range. Some fields still achieved high canola yields, with some in the north of the region around Elie achieving 70 bu/acre and around Portage 60 bu/acre. 

Flax harvest is almost complete in the south of the Central region, but in the north west of the region, some areas sit at 50 per cent. Sunflower fields are approaching harvest, with most fields receiving a desiccant in the past weeks. Although some fields are approaching harvest, many require a good frost to enable harvest. Large numbers of blackbirds feeding on sunflowers have been observed. 

Approximately 90 per cent of soybeans have been harvested, with soybean yields mostly between 20 to 30 bu/acre. The proportion harvested is higher in the Pembina valley where approximately 95 per cent of soybeans are harvested, and lower around Gladstone and Holland at 70 per cent. Only a few dry bean fields remain. Edible bean yields are in the region of 1800 to 2500 lbs/ac, with the lowest at around 750 lbs/ac and the highest at around 3250 lbs. 

Eastern
Rainfall accumulations across the Eastern region ranged from 25 mm to 57 mm with the average rainfall amounts around 30-35 mm. The greatest amounts of rainfall were in Beausejour and Ste. Anne with 55 mm and 57 mm respectively. With the rainfall this past week very little harvest progress was made. Producers are hoping to continue with harvest and fall field work this week as weather allows. 

Spring wheat harvest is considered 100 per cent complete. Average yield on spring wheat has been better than expected at around 70 bu/acre with 13.5 per cent or higher protein levels and grading #1 or #2 Canada. Oat harvest is complete with yields at 130 bu/acre on average with good bushel weights. Barley harvest is complete with yields averaging out at around 100 bu/acre. 

Corn fields are at physiological maturity and are drying down as weather allows. The majority of the crop remains in good to excellent condition. Yield reports are good averaging 150 bu/ac with good test weight at 55 to 57 lbs/bu. A bit of progress was reported for this week before the rain started, it is estimated that 15 per cent of the corn has been harvested. 

Canola harvest progress stalled this week with an estimated 75 per cent of acres now complete. Yields are at 50 to 60 bu/acre on average with good quality. Canola harvesting is expected to continue as weather allows. 

The majority of sunflower fields have been desiccated. The crop remains in good to excellent condition as producers wait for the crop to dry down. No harvest reports as of yet. 

The flax crop is at stage 12 (seed ripe). Desiccation of most fields has occurred. Harvest is expected to commence once fields have dried down and weather allows. No harvest reports as of yet. 

Soybean harvest is estimated at 75 per cent of acres complete. Yield reports range from low to mid 30 bu/acre to as high as 60 bu/acre depending on the variety and the rains received over the growing season. The average yield for the area would be in the 45 bu/acre range. 

Interlake
Heavy rainfall, as well as small showers last week limited combining progress. The amount of rainfall received in the Interlake region ranged from 24 mm to 55 mm. Crops are drying down but moisture levels are not dropping as fast as expected due to sporadic rainfall. 

Spring wheat harvesting is 100 per cent complete. Yields for spring wheat range from 65 to 80 bu/acre, mostly all #1 or #2 Canada. High-test weights and proteins ranging from 13.9-15.5 per cent with the average being about 14.5 per cent. Oat harvesting is done with yields at 130 to 170 bu/acre depending on rainfall received over the season. Barley harvesting is 100 per cent complete, with average yield 80 to 100 bu/acre. 

Soybean harvesting is well underway and about 80 per cent complete depending on variety and seeding date. Majority of fields looking above average. Soybean yield estimate is 40-45 bu/acre depending on the amount of rainfall. There is still green in the stalks making for tough combining. 

Canola harvest sits at 80 per cent complete with yields between 40 to 60 bu/acre. Canola harvesting expected to be widespread this week if the weather is suitable. 

Sunflowers fields have been desiccated. Harvesting is expected to occur in 2 to 3 weeks given favorable weather conditions. 

Corn is at physiological maturity and is drying down. Many of the corn crops are in good to excellent condition. Harvest has started in some areas and is about 10 per cent complete. 

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Harvest progress sits at 64 per cent complete across the province (see at top), which is ahead of the 5-year average (54 per cent). Harvest continues in spring cereal crops, with barley at 95 per cent complete, oats at 95 per cent complete and spring wheat at 93 per cent complete. Overall, cereal crops remain in fair to mostly good condition.

Many corn fields had achieved growth stage R6 and were drying down. Canola harvest continues with approximately 55 per cent of the acres being harvested across the province. Soybean fields are mostly in the R7 to R8 growth stages with harvest progress sitting at 21 per cent provincially. 

Producers are encouraged to scout their fields for weeds that have escaped control. This is an important part of integrated pest management. Waterhemp has been found in the Central and Eastern regions and producers should seek identification of any unusual pigweeds in their fields. 

Cereals 

Spring wheat yields range from 35 to 70 bu/acre, with highs of 90 bushels and a low of 16 bu/acre in the driest regions. Protein levels range from 13.5 per cent and higher and grading #1 or #2 Canada. Oats have been yielding 90 to 130 with highs of 170 bu/acre, with some in the driest areas as low as 60 bu/acre being reported. Barley yields are between 70 and 100 bu/acre.

The spring wheat quality is rated mostly fair to good.

Many corn fields had achieved growth stage R6 (“black layer” or physiological maturity) and were drying down. 

Oilseeds

Canola harvest continues with approximately 55 per cent of the acres being harvested provincially and 75 per cent complete in the Central region. Overall crop condition ranged from fair to mostly good.

Sunflower fields are transitioning from the R9 (bracts becoming yellow and brown (growth stage). The crop remained in good to excellent condition.

Flax crop growth stages ranged from late stage 11 (brown capsule) to stage 12 (seed ripe) with lots of variability being noted in fields. Flax harvest in the Central region continues with approximately 40% of the acres being harvested. The crop remained in fair to mostly good condition.

Pulses and Soybeans

Soybean fields are mostly in the R7 to R8 growth stages with some harvest progress at 21% provincially. Yields have been variable and dependent upon summer rainfall. Yield ranges from 20 to 30 on the earliest harvested fields to 30 to 40 plus bu/acre over the last week. Overall crop condition remains good.

Dry bean harvest is approximately 72 per cent complete. Yield ranges from 1200 lbs/acre to 2500 lbs/acre are being reported.

Forages & Livestock 

Forages
Corn silage harvest is well underway throughout the eastern region. Unfortunately, operations were interrupted on Thursday and Friday of last week due to scattered rain showers. There is a big push to get dryer fields chopped and into piles before forecasted rain hits again towards the end of this week.

Straw is being baled for bedding and for cattle feed.

Beef producers continue to chip away at second cut from fields that are predominantly grass and are baling straw as it becomes available.

Some producers are considering taking second cut on alfalfa fields that are in full bloom towards the end of this week. This is because we are coming close to three weeks past the critical harvest date of
September 1, the alfalfa’s root reserves should be well charged, and minimal regrowth is expected.

Forage growth on hay & pasture is mostly finished due to dry conditions and nearing the end of the
growing season.

Light frost in parts of the region in the Northwest region have producers concerned over nitrates in their annual crop silage and greenfeed still standing, and are advised to feed test their annual crops for nitrates prior to feeding 

Livestock
Some producers are supplementing hay on pasture to ensure nutrient requirements of cattle are being met and to take pressure off the grass. A handful of producers are beginning to move cattle onto fenced hayfields or harvested cropland to graze available regrowth and/or stubble.

Water levels in dugouts are low. This is of particular concern on pastures located in areas that have consistently missed out on rain.

Grass conditions on pasture are dwindling as we progress further into the fall and plant growth naturally slows. The status of individual pastures continues to be highly dependent on moisture levels, grazing management strategy, and soil type.

Some producers are hauling cows home and taking calves to the auction marts.

Flies are still out in abundance, grasshoppers chewing down what little is left of pastures.

Several producers are moving cattle to fall grazing areas and more cattle are hitting the auction marts as producers take advantage of the wet days to work with livestock.

Pastures have a new sense of green in the stand due to the recent rainfall in the Southwest region.

Regional Comments

Southwest
Humid and wet weather early last week in the Southwest. The majority of the region received 5 to 15 mm of rain. The temperature was also starting to decrease during the day and night. There was below-zero temperatures for a few hours in some parts of the region. A slower week of harvest as some rains during the week and cloudy days reduced harvest hours for producers. The maximum daytime temperature was 27.4 C and the minimum -2.6 C recorded during last week.

Spring wheat harvesting continued this week with several producers achieving up to 80 to 85% complete. Yields look to be average to slightly above average with a good 13.5 per cent protein. Yields range from 55 to 75 bu/acre, depending upon the moisture conditions during the growing season. Barley harvest is 90 per cent complete. Quality and yields are average. Oat harvest is 90 per cent complete. Producers can get at standing crops faster than swathed crops but by midweek, all fields were dry. Yields look to be average and recent rains are affecting the quality of the grains.
Canola harvest is 55 per cent complete. The yield range is 35 to 45 bu/acre. Canola that remains to be harvested is what was seeded after the May long weekend, which is highly variable and needs time to mature. 

Soybeans are at the late R7 to R8 stage. Temperatures were below zero in some areas during the night but no major damage to soybean crops at this stage. Harvest is 15 per cent complete. No yield reports yet. Recent rain has helped pod fill and later seeded beans. 

Corn is physiologically mature with the black layer in the seed, heights are variable due to drought conditions, silage is past its optimum stage, and now producers are more on the dry side at 50 per cent moisture or less. Corn silage is underway at approximately 70 per cent complete. 

Northwest 
Another good week of harvest progress, with a slight pause at the end of the week due to rain. Most of the region received frost early in the week, with varying temperatures. Alonsa weather station recorded the lowest overnight temperature at -2.9 C. Some frost damage were evident in corn and soybean crops, depending on the stage of crops and degree of frost. Daytime temperatures reached mid to high 20’s over the weekend and continued to contribute to good harvest conditions. Yields continue to vary widely and dependent on early season rains. 

Spring wheat harvest had another good week of progress, with most areas approximately 95 to 97 per cent done. Harvest in The Pas is slightly behind that at approximately 70 per cent complete. Yields have been ranging from 50 to 90 bu/acre, while some fields have done poorer and some better. Initial reports of quality have been good, however some reports of lower protein. 

Canola harvest continued over the week and is approximately 40 to 45 per cent complete. Desiccation and swathing continue as crops reach appropriate stages. Yield reports have averaged from 40 to 55 bu/acre, while some crops have yielded below 40 bu/acre and some above 55 bu/acre. 

Field pea harvest is 100 per cent complete. Yields are variable and are mostly dependent on precipitation through the season. Fields with little precipitation ranged from 40 to 45 bu/acre while better fields at 60 to 70 bu/acre. Baling of pea straw is occurring. Some post-harvest field work has been done as crops are removed. 

Soybeans are now mostly in the R8 stage and are moving towards maturity. A small start to harvest in the Dauphin area. Some crops may have been touched by frost, but unknown if any damage at this time. 

Seeding of fall seeded crops started last week across the region. 

Central 
Spotty rain showers halted harvest for some, with Portage farmers receiving the most rainfall at 12mm. However, sunny weather allowed producers to quickly return to fields and farmers made decent progress with canola, flax, dry beans, soybean, and potato harvest. Localized frosts are helping to dry down leaves on some crops, with some areas receiving several hours below freezing. Baldur (-3.3 C), Gladstone (-3.3 C), and Treherne (-1.7 C) reported the coldest temperatures. 

Harvest of spring cereals is mostly complete, with spring wheat, oat and barley harvest sitting at around 99 per cent. The few remaining fields are in the northwestern reaches of the Central region. Spring wheat yields are highly variable, depending mostly on how much rainfall the crop received during the growing season. Most spring wheat yields have been in the region of 35 to 65 bu/acre, but yields have ranged from as low as 16 bu/acre in extreme cases to 95 bu/acre only a few miles away. Oats have been yielding 80 to 130 bu/acre, with some in the driest areas as low as 60 bu/acre. Barley between 70 and 100 bu/acre. 

Corn continues to approach harvest, with fields maturing with the back layer visible in kernels. Most of the crop looks promising, however, fields that have received the least amount of rainfall are in the poorest condition. Most silage cornfields are rapidly approaching harvest, with approximately 60 per cent harvesting already complete and yields ranging between 13 to 15 tonne/ac. 

Canola harvest continues, with harvest progress at approximately 75 per cent for the region. Pre-harvest herbicides and swathing is complete. Harvest is expected to quickly progress next week. Yields vary greatly, between 20 and 55 bu/acre, with averages closer to the 30 to 40 bushel range. Some fields still achieved high canola yields, with some in the north of the region around Elie achieving 70 bu/acre yields, and around Portage 60 bu/acre in some cases. Flax harvest is underway, with approximately 40 per cent harvested. Sunflower fields are at the R9 (bracts becoming yellow and brown). 

Soybean harvest continues with approximately 45 per cent harvested. Most soybeans are between R7 and R8 (95 per cent brown pod). Earliest soybean yields are mostly between 20 to 25 bu/acre. Over the last week, yields have improved to the 30 to 40 bu/acre range. Cutting and harvest are underway for dry beans, with harvest standing at approximately 75 per cent. Edible bean yields are in the region of 1200 to 2500 lbs/acre. 

Eastern 
Rainfall accumulations over the reporting period ranged from trace amounts to less than 10 mm. Most of these accumulations occurred as intermittent showers or drizzle that touched every district in the region from Thursday to Saturday of last week. This rainfall, coupled with seasonal to below seasonal temperatures slowed harvest and field work progress. Localized light frosts occurred on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings last week. No yield or quality losses were expected to result from these events given that crop were well advanced but damage to top leaves on corn and soybeans was noted in some fields. Producers look forward to making significant progress on canola and soybean harvest this week if weather allows. 

Spring wheat harvest was about 95 per cent complete. Average yield on spring wheat has been better than expected at around 70 bu/acre with 13.5 per cent or higher protein levels and grading #1 or #2 Canada. Oat harvest was complete with yields at around 130 bu/acre on average and good bushel weights. Barley harvest was also complete with yields averaging out at around 100 bu/acre. Spring cereal harvest is expected to wrap up this week if weather allows. 

Many corn fields had achieved growth stage R6 (“black layer” or physiological maturity) and were drying down. Crop advancement slowed somewhat due to the weather over the last week. The majority of the crop remained in good to excellent condition. A limited number of fields on lighter soil profiles located in low rainfall areas were showing signs of moisture stress and drying down prematurely. 

Sunflower fields were at the R9 (bracts becoming yellow and brown (growth stage). Producers were monitoring bract colour change and the weather while making plans for desiccation. Because of the weather last week, crop advancement slowed but desiccation of some crops could begin this week if weather is supportive. The crop remained in good to excellent condition. 

Most canola crops in the region were harvest ready or close to harvest ready and needing only a bit more dry- down time. There was limited progress on canola harvest last week because of the weather with about 35 per cent of acres now harvested. Current yield estimates were around 60 bu/acre on average with good quality. Canola harvesting is expected to become the main focus of growers this week if the weather is suitable. Swathing and pre-harvest herbicide applications were essentially complete. 

Flax crop growth stages ranged from very late stage 11 (brown capsule) to stage 12 (seed ripe) with lots of variability being noted in fields. Because of the weather last week, crop advancement slowed but desiccation of some crops could begin this week if weather is supportive. The crop remained in fair to mostly good condition. 

Soybean harvest had begun last week with about 10 per cent of acres harvested. Most soybean fields were somewhere in the very late R7 (one or more brown pods on the main stem with lots of leaf drop) to R8 (95% brown pod/physiological maturity) and drying down. Some pre-harvest applications will continue on select fields to either control rank weed growth or desiccate the crop and speed up harvest. Overall crop condition remained good on most fields 

Interlake 
The South Interlake area received about 4mm of rain. Some producers in both the south and north Interlake reported frost at -20C occurring the middle of last week. Producers are reporting no damage by frost due to crop advancement/maturity stage. Daytime temperatures have declined to a certain extent with average daytime high temperatures falling below 20 C. 

Last week saw limited harvest activity, following light showers on and off midweek in the Interlake region. In general, harvest progress varied across the region depending on moisture, variety, and seeding dates. Cereal harvest is near complete with, an increasing number of producers done, and working on canola or waiting for soybeans. Harvesting should be widespread by next week if weather conditions become favorable. 

Spring wheat harvesting is well underway. Spring wheat average yield between 65 to 80 bu/acre, mostly all #1 Canada. High-test weights and proteins 13.9 to 15.5 per cent with the average being 14.5%. Estimated harvest completion at 90 per cent and expected to wrap up by next week. Many producers are reporting dealing with tough straw, and harvesting grain that is not dry. Grain quality has been good to date, but there are concerns that grain quality may start to drop with recent wet weather. 

Oats are coming off with average yields ranging from 140-170 bu/acre and estimated completion at 95 per cent.Some oats are being reported as light, but most are adequate in weight. Barley average yields are 60-80 bu/acre, with good test weights. Harvest completion stands at 95 per cent. 

Most soybeans are at R7-R8 to reaching physiological maturity soon. Majority of fields have brown pods, with dropped leaves and are drying down. Harvest of early maturing varieties has started in the Teulon area at about 1 per cent complete but majority of fields are still 2 to 3 weeks away from harvest. 

Canola yields are better than expected, late July rains helped canola to fill. Canola yields range from 40 to 55 bu/acre with estimated completion at 35 per cent. Canola harvesting is expected to be widespread this week if the weather is suitable. 

Silage corn harvesting has started in some areas of the north and south Interlake with yields ranging from 14-15 tonnes/acre. Good progress chopping silage corn in the Arborg area.

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