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Despite avoiding major drought conditions, many areas in Sask. still seeing below-average levels of rain

Some farmers in different areas of Saskatchewan are counting their lucky stars that they’ve avoided any major drought conditions.

This includes Prince Albert and some parts of the northeast.

While some crops have been lost due to the lack of precipitation, most fields have kept the majority of their yield. This is the case for farmers Bob Reid who works in the Smeaton area and Kerry Peterson who operates in the Shellbrook area.

However, Justin Shelley, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, told farmnewsNOW the amount of precipitation these areas have received is still quite low.

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Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.