Severe Pest and Disease Outbreak Affects Pulse Crops in Saskatchewan

29-Jul-2026 09:28 PM

Saskatoon. In Saskatchewan, Canada's leading agricultural province, not only has the area sown with pulses decreased this year, but the crops are also facing a severe outbreak of pests and diseases. Consequently, pulse production in the region is likely to be impacted. The incidence of disease is particularly high in the Langham and Reward areas of Saskatchewan, where peas and lentils are cultivated on a large scale.

According to market observers, prices for lentils and peas should have risen significantly by now given the anticipated sharp drop in production; however, it appears that large carryover stocks and weak demand from importing nations are exerting downward pressure on the pulse market. Interestingly, while prices for most cereal crops and canola in Canada are strengthening, the pulse market remains subdued or stable.

There are also reports of damage to pulse crops in Canada this year due to heavy rainfall and severe flooding. Analysts believe that market prices could rise in the coming months; therefore, producers might opt ​​to hold onto their stocks rather than selling their pulses in haste. Canadian producers are also keeping a close watch on Australia.