Harvest Surges Ahead — But is Quality Holding Up?

Warm and dry conditions have been pushing harvest along across Alberta, with 42% of all crops now in the bin, according to the new crop report. That’s ahead of both the 5-year (40%) and 10-year (32%) averages. Most regions are running above their long-term pace, though the South is slightly behind its average despite being furthest along overall.

Regional Progress

• South: 52% complete — still leading the province, though below the usual 65% average. Rye, winter wheat, and peas are nearly finished. Grasshoppers, gophers, flea beetles, and ergot have been spotted in some fields.
• Central: 31% complete versus a 42% average. Dry peas are nearly done at 89%, with canola swathing in full swing.
• North East: 41% complete — well above the usual 22%. Rye and winter wheat are already finished.
• North West: 41% complete, ahead of its 24% average. Cereals are nearly wrapped up, and canola harvest is just starting. Gopher numbers are running high.
• Peace: 38% complete, ahead of the 21% average. Peas are furthest along at 74%, while canola trails at 22%.

Crop Quality

The first quality estimates show a mixed picture.

• Spring wheat: 77% grading No. 1 CW, well above the 5-year average of 61%.
• Durum: 47% No. 1 CW, below the 57% average.
• Barley: Malt quality sits near average at 30%, with 61% grading No. 1 CW.
• Oats: Only 22% grading No. 1 CW, down from the 38% average.
• Canola: Strong results, with 91% grading No. 1 Canada, above the 84% average.
• Peas: Just 12% grading No. 1 Canada, well below the 29% average.

The August 20 hailstorm left its mark in pockets of the South and Central, but province-wide impacts appear limited.