Hensall Co-op encourages farmers to explore dry bean production as a way to diversify operations and access food-grade marketing opportunities.
Hensall Co-op is encouraging farmers to consider dry navy beans as an alternative crop to improve revenue potential, diversify crop rotations and distribute seasonal workloads.
Barry Cavanaugh, representing Hensall Co-op, discussed the company's food-grade dry bean program, production requirements, and marketing opportunities during a presentation for growers.
Founded in 1937, Hensall Co-op expanded into the food-grade market during the mid-1990s. The farmer-owned cooperative now operates multiple business divisions, including grain handling, transportation, energy and animal feed.
With approximately 6,000 members, 600 employees and substantial grain storage capacity, the company sources agricultural products from several regions to meet customer demand.
Cavanaugh explained that navy beans are a suitable starting point for farmers interested in growing dry beans. Hensall Co-op also handles other varieties, but some require specialized equipment and additional management.
The cooperative's production contracts generally guarantee acceptance of the contracted crop, subject to the agreement terms, including provisions addressing uncontrollable events such as severe weather damage.
Field selection and planting
Successful dry bean production begins with appropriate soil conditions and effective weed management. Cavanaugh advised growers to avoid heavy, poorly drained clay soils and instead prioritize well-drained loam or silt loam fields with consistent soil characteristics.
Adequate fertility, suitable pH, and good crop rotation practices also contribute to crop performance.
Planting typically fits into the period after corn and soybean planting, with May 20 through June 10 identified as a favorable window in Ontario.
Farmers can use existing planting and harvesting equipment, although suitable planter plates may be necessary. Row spacing and plant populations should be adjusted to field conditions to encourage canopy development and reduce exposed soil.
Weed control is particularly important because weeds can complicate harvest and increase crop quality concerns.
Cavanaugh emphasized controlling weeds early and preventing them from producing seeds. He also discussed fungicide applications to manage white mold, followed by crop desiccation to support uniform drying and harvest readiness.
Harvest management and marketing
Dry beans require careful harvesting to minimize seed damage and losses. Cavanaugh recommended sharp cutting equipment, slower harvesting speeds and gentle combine settings. A target moisture level of approximately 18 percent helps maintain bean quality, while excessively dry conditions can increase handling concerns.
Hensall Co-op evaluates delivered beans for foreign material, immature seeds, discoloration, and other quality issues. Dockage and quality-related deductions can affect the final payment to growers, making field management and careful harvesting economically important.
Beyond potential revenue per acre, dry beans can spread planting and harvesting workloads and complement winter wheat production. Cavanaugh suggested that new growers consider approximately 35 to 45 acres as an initial trial, representing roughly one truckload, before expanding production.
The presentation emphasized that dry beans are not suitable for every farm. However, with appropriate field selection, weed control, harvest planning and a reliable marketing arrangement, navy beans may offer growers another option for diversifying their operations.
Watch the full Hensall Co-op Barry Cavanaugh demo presentation from the 2026 Great Ontario Yield Tour below.
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