Alberta harvest moves ahead under dry skies
The AFSC and Alberta Government Crop Reporting Survey shows that Alberta’s 2025 harvest is advancing quickly as warm, dry weather continues across the province. As of September 16, major crops are 59 percent harvested, a jump of 20 percent from the previous week and ahead of the five-year average of 52 percent and the ten-year average of 41 percent.
Regional progress is strong: the South leads at 67 percent, followed by the Peace Region at 61 percent, the North West at 59 percent, the North East at 56 percent, and the Central Region at 53 percent.
Crop-by-crop, dry peas are nearly complete at 98 percent, spring wheat and barley are each 75 percent harvested, oats are 63 percent, and canola sits at 28 percent combined, with 33 percent swathed.
While the dry weather supports quick harvest, it has reduced soil moisture reserves. Provincial surface moisture rated good to excellent is just 29 percent, below the five-year average of 43 percent. Sub-surface moisture is similar at 31 percent good to excellent. Pasture conditions have also declined to 32 percent good to excellent, while tame hay is at 26 percent—both below normal.
Regional details highlight similar trends. The South and Central regions face high temperatures and persistent winds, lowering moisture and slowing pasture regrowth. North East and North West regions report ongoing moisture stress with little rainfall. Peace Region fields remain dry but harvest is ahead of normal.
Despite the moisture challenges, farmers across Alberta continue to move quickly to bring in crops, with harvest well ahead of seasonal averages. Ongoing dry conditions will remain a key factor for fall field work and winter soil preparation.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham