StatCan: Canada 2026 Pulse Acreage Drops Sharply, Driven by Lower Pea and Lentil Seedings

On 30 June 2026, Statistics Canada released its Principal Field Crop Areas Report, presenting updated estimates of seeded acreage based on producer surveys conducted in late May and early June. The report confirms a significant reduction in Canadian pulse acreage for the 2026 crop year, led by substantial declines in dry peas and lentils.

Dry Pea Acreage Falls to the Lowest Level Since 2011

Dry peas recorded the sharpest decline among Canada's major pulse crops. Seeded area fell 13.7% from 2025 levels and was 2.0% lower than the March 2026 planting intentions estimate, marking the lowest dry pea acreage since 2011.

Saskatchewan, Canada's largest pea-producing province, reduced pea plantings by 7.3%, while Alberta registered a much steeper 17.6% decline compared with last year, reflecting weaker producer interest amid challenging market conditions.

Lentil Acreage Also Contracts

Canadian lentil acreage declined significantly in 2026. Farmers seeded 10.9% fewer acres than in 2025, with plantings also falling below the acreage projected in the March survey.

Saskatchewan accounted for most of the reduction, where lentil area declined 11.7% year over year. Alberta also reported lower plantings, with seeded acreage down 5.6% from 2025.

Chickpea Area Edges Lower

Chickpea acreage declined modestly in 2026. Farmers seeded 1.53% fewer acres than the previous year, with plantings also coming in below the March 2026 estimate.

Outlook

Statistics Canada's June 30 acreage report highlights a transition year for Canada's pulse sector. Faced with large carryover stocks, weaker prices, and compressed production margins, many growers reduced pea and lentil plantings in favour of alternative crops.

Statistics Canada will conduct additional surveys throughout the growing season to refine seeded acreage estimates. The final 2026 acreage figures are scheduled to be released on 4 December 2026.

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