StatsCan released its latest Field Crop Areas report on June 26, 2023. The data reveals a decline of 9.72% in the acreage dedicated to Canadian peas compared to the previous year. Lentils, on the other hand, experienced a substantial decrease of 15% in acreage, reaching its lowest level in the past nine years.

The significant reduction in lentil and dry pea acreage can be primarily attributed to their comparatively lower prices when compared to other commodities.

Saskatchewan and Alberta play a vital role in the cultivation of lentils and dry peas:

In Saskatchewan, farmers witnessed an 11.68% decrease in the area planted with dry peas and a 15% decrease in the area planted with lentils compared to the previous year. In response, they opted to plant other commodities such as wheat and canola. Alberta farmers also diversified their crops, reducing the acreage allocated to lentils and dry peas by 15% and 5%, respectively.

Canadian farmers expected better returns from other commodities in comparison to lentils and dry peas.

In contrast, the acreage dedicated to chickpeas experienced a notable increase of 35% compared to the previous year. This surge is primarily driven by the global demand for Kabuli chickpeas, and Canadian farmers anticipated higher returns in the current season.