The National Agroclimate Risk report—produced by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada—says there is significant concern for drought in southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

Winter and spring precipitation has been well below normal. With little to no spring runoff, some producers in the driest areas have started to haul water.

Over the next two weeks, Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts a low probability of significant rainfall throughout the driest regions of the Prairies.

The following is the latest Saskatchewan summary from the National Agroclimate Risk report:

-Well below normal fall and winter precipitation in southern regions of the province resulted in poor soil moisture and minimal spring runoff. Sub-surface soil moisture throughout much of the region is poor.

-A large snowfall event went through eastern Saskatchewan in mid-April improving surface soil moisture. However, large portions of southern and eastern Saskatchewan remain dry with significant long-term deficits. below 60 per cent of normal precipitation. More moisture is needed within the next few weeks.

-Well below normal spring runoff has led to water supply and water quality concerns. Supplemental feeding is still occurring where pastures remain dry. Producers are currently pumping and hauling water to supplement on-farm surface water sources. Portions of the southwest won’t be receiving their irrigation deliveries because of low surface water levels. Many producers are looking for opportunities to pump water.

-Reservoir levels are below normal for much of southern Saskatchewan and many producers are looking for opportunities to pump water.

A link to the full report is here.