Harvest update

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development

Despite two weeks of cool and wet conditions earlier this month, the recent warm weather with above average temperatures has allowed producers to make good harvest progress. “Our data shows that, as of September 23, 27% of crops were swathed and 52% combined,” says Lukas Matejovsky, crop statistician, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, Edmonton. “Right now, the vast majority of crops that remain standing are expected to be straight combined.”


Matejovsky says the cool and wet conditions in September did not have a significant effect on crop yields. “The yield expectations continue to improve in all regions of the province and could still be slightly above average. 2014 dryland canola yield is estimated at 39 bushels per acre, spring wheat is at 46 and barley is at 67.”

As far as crop quality is concerned, things took a bit of a hit from the cold and wet in September. “Over 90% of spring wheat and 85% of durham are expected to be at grade three or better, 70% of barley is expected at grade number one with 15% expected to be eligible for malt,” says Matejovsky. “As far as canola is concerned, 80% is expected to be grade one Canada, and 72% of field peas are grading food quality of number two or better.”

Matejovsky adds that, while crop quality has declined due to the cool and wet weather, this year’s quality is expected to be about average.

Click here for the Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development Weekly Crop Market Review