Ag in Motion: Canadian Farmers Optimistic as Crop Conditions Improve, But USMCA Uncertainty Remains

RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney says Canadian farmers are encouraged by improving crop conditions, but are watching the weather and USMCA negotiations closely.

CALGARY, ALBERTA (RFD-TV) — Conversations at this week’s Ag in Motion farm show in Saskatchewan centered on crop conditions, strengthening markets and ongoing trade negotiations.

Shaun Haney, host of Real Ag Radio, joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report after spending the week at the event, where he spoke with producers from across the Canadian Prairies about the growing season and the issues shaping their outlook.

In his interview with RFD-TV, Haney said one of the biggest surprises was how much crop conditions have improved since spring. After widespread concerns about drought entering the season, abundant June rainfall has left much of the Western Canadian crop in good shape, though some areas received excessive moisture. He said many producers believe one more timely rain will be needed for crops to reach their full potential.

While weather remains a key focus, Haney said farmers are also encouraged by improving commodity markets. He noted optimism for crops such as canola and spring wheat. On the other hand, pulse producers remain concerned as lentil and pea prices have lagged despite questions about crop quality following the wet conditions.

Trade was another major topic of discussion. Haney said producers recognize the importance of ongoing U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement negotiations and are hopeful an agreement can be reached soon to provide greater certainty for agriculture. He said farmers are watching tariff developments closely but would like to see trade issues resolved so they can focus on managing their operations.

Looking ahead, Haney said producers will be watching weather forecasts, crop development and progress on USMCA negotiations, with hopes that improved market fundamentals and greater trade certainty will support agriculture through the remainder of the growing season.

Related Stories
Improved Panama Canal operating flexibility could give agricultural shippers more dependable routing options as water conditions improve.
As Canada and the United States continue to navigate trade disputes, the review offers farm groups an opportunity to argue for preserving access to integrated North American agricultural markets.
The shipment would mark the first Russian petroleum-products cargo the United States has imported since a 2022 ban on Russian oil and petroleum products.
Shaun Haney examines Alberta’s vote to remain in Canada and the unresolved tensions over energy policy, agricultural trade and federal-provincial relations.
Oxford Economics points to input costs and climate-related losses as key pressures.
StoneX Director of Fertilizer Josh Linville discusses global supply pressures, fertilizer price volatility, and purchasing strategies for farmers preparing for fall applications and the 2027 growing season.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD-TV and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Tune in tonight at 7:30 p.m. Eastern on RFD-TV to watch Choctaw Ranches: The Land Comes First, only on RFD-TV and streaming on RFDTV+.
Amy Rhodes is a co-owner of Salt River Ranch in Wyoming. Her episode of Dirt Diaries is available now, and she will also appear in an upcoming season of FarmHER + RanchHER.
The CRP enrollment pause leaves landowners waiting for a new Farm Bill before new contracts and extensions can move forward.
Jacob Steph with Specialty Risk Insurance recommends reviewing equipment coverage options, updating property values to reflect today’s rebuilding costs, and reassessing livestock coverage as cattle values change.
For Nebraska rancher Shalane Bright’s family, virtual fencing provided a way to access additional forage during drought without installing miles of new physical fence.
With input prices staying high, Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities says farmers should carefully compare delivery locations and basis opportunities when marketing the remaining crop.
Washington tree-fruit growers have faced years of low returns and rising costs. WSTFA President Jon DeVaney discusses AI technology, research, and the challenges of adoption.
Dr. Robin Yabroff of the American Cancer Society says affordable insurance, stronger rural healthcare, and localized breast cancer resources for rural women are key to closing care and survival gaps.
Tune in for the Season 8 premiere of FarmHER + RanchHER on Thursday, October 29, at 8:30 p.m. Eastern, on RFD-TV and RFDTV+
South Dakota Farm Bureau President Scott VanderWal says conditions differ across the state, but producers remain focused on finishing harvest, managing their finances, and preparing for the next growing season.
National Pork Board past president Dr. Gordon Spronk says ground pork can connect with younger consumers because of its affordability and versatility, which suit everyday meals and gatherings.
AgriGold field agronomist Brett Leahr says the Midwest corn harvest this year shows how early-season water, late-season heat, drainage, and field topography can affect corn yields.