Provincial harvest reaches 77 percent completion well above long term averages
According to the AFSC and Alberta Government Crop Reporting Survey, Alberta’s 2025 harvest has made strong progress under warm and dry conditions. As of September 23, 77 percent of major crops were harvested — an 18 percent increase over the previous week. The pace is well ahead of the five-year average of 68 percent and the ten-year average of 54 percent.
Regional progress varies, with the South leading at 84 percent, followed by the North West at 80 percent, the Peace at 78 percent, the North East at 77 percent, and the Central Region at 72 percent. Producers now emphasize the importance of receiving meaningful precipitation before the ground freezes to rebuild soil moisture reserves for next season.
Harvest of early crops such as winter wheat, fall rye, dry peas, and lentils is virtually complete. Durum harvest stands at 92 percent, while spring wheat and barley are nearing completion at 89 and 87 percent respectively. Mustard leads the oilseed crops at 85 percent, while canola sits at 56 percent and flax lags at 35 percent.
Provincial yield estimates improved this week, with the major crop yield index now 25 percent above the five-year average and 17 percent above the ten-year average. Crop quality remains strong, with 78 percent of spring wheat and 93 percent of canola graded top quality.
Despite steady harvest progress, drought concerns persist. Only 25 percent of surface soils rate as good to excellent — far below historical averages. Pastures and fall-seeded crops also reflect dry conditions, though hay yields remain near average. Farmers hope for late-season rainfall to restore moisture ahead of winter.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-awakr10