CALGARY, Alberta (RFD NEWS) — U.S. farmers planted a record number of canola acres in 2026, and industry observers say there may be room for additional growth in the years ahead.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joined us on Market Day Report to discuss the expansion of U.S. canola acreage, the role of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), and advancements in canola genetics.
In his interview with RFD News, Haney said U.S. producers planted a record 2.97 million acres of canola in 2026, while Western Canada also reached a record 23.4 million acres. He said there is potential for U.S. acreage to continue growing in 2027, citing interest in greater crop diversification and continued demand for canola.
Haney explained that the USMCA trade agreement plays an important role in supporting that growth by maintaining an integrated North American canola market. Haney noted the agreement allows Canadian and U.S. canola production and processing to complement one another, supporting existing infrastructure and market opportunities.
He also discussed how canola genetics continue to advance to meet the needs of U.S. growers. He said breeding efforts are focused on improving traits such as heat tolerance while also expanding opportunities for production in additional growing regions.
