Harvest is nearing completion across the Saskatchewan grainbelt.

The latest provincial crop report says 99 percent of combining is complete, up from 96 percent last week and well ahead of the five year average of 83 percent for this date.

Harvest is virtually complete in the south and west-central regions, 99 percent in east-central and northeast areas, and 98 percent in the northwest.

Most of the crop still in the field is canola, flax, soybeans and fababeans.

There was minimal rain this past week, with St. Walburg receiving the highest amount at 9 millimeters.

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated 25 percent adequate, 41 percent short and 34 percent very short.

The report says farmers need fall moisture and winter snow to recharge dugouts and ensure adequate moisture for next year’s crop.

Most of the crop damage this past week was due to strong winds, waterfowl and wildlife.

Farmers are busy wrapping up combining throughout the province as well as post-harvest field operations and moving livestock home from summer pastures.
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