Rain, snow brings precipitation levels back up to spring norms
By COLLIN GALLANT on May 29, 2021.
cgallant@medicinehatnews.com@CollinGallant Heavy rain last week landed where it was most needed and brings the total precipitation in southern Alberta back to normal levels this spring, according to the province’s latest crop report. Most to the south received about 50 millimetres (two inches) of combined rain and snow between May 17 and 19. It arrived just at the final stages of seeding for almost all crop acres, and brings sub-surface moisture ratings to three-quarters good to excellent. That will improve growth outlook, according the report, dated May 25, though cooler temperatures may have delayed germination, and now warmer weather is needed. Pasture conditions remained generally unchanged at 90 per cent fair to good for the period. That is on par with the est of the province. The majority of fall seeded crops in the south are in good shape. Similarly, producers in southwest Saskatchewan were nearing the finish line of seeding as much-needed rain moved into the region over the May long weekend. That province’s crop report of conditions to May 24 states that planting was above 90 per cent complete for all crops throughout the region. About 85 per cent of cropland is now considered to have adequate moisture, up from 50 per cent short two weeks ago, while pasture conditions reversed following a dry winter and spring. They are now considered 50 per cent fair shape, and pasture conditions across the province are still mixed despite widespread rain. The Shaunavon region recorded 75 millimetres (three inches) of rain over the week, and only minor frost damage is showing across the southwest. 10-9
