2025 Harvest Outlook: Dry Start, Hopeful Finish for Saskatchewan Barley
From Drought to a Fighting Chance
The 2025 malt barley harvest in Saskatchewan has been a season of extremes. It began with widespread drought, poor soil moisture, and stressed crops—especially in southwest SK and the Peace River region of Alberta. By mid-June, many growers expected low yields, thin kernels, and high protein levels.
Then, late June and early July brought relief. Some regions received 40 to 100 mm of rain, enough to keep crops alive and give late tillers a boost. Central Saskatchewan and parts of Alberta now show average or better soil moisture, but most of the province remains dry. This will play a big role in kernel fill, test weight, and final yield.
Overall, yields are expected to land between average and slightly below average. Farms that missed the rain may stay on the low side. Still, careful harvest and storage management could deliver strong Saskatchewan barley quality and meet malt specifications.
Managing Protein and Plumpness for Malt Specs
For the 2025 malt barley harvest, protein is the key concern. Dry weather tends to push protein above the 10–12.5% range required for malt contracts. Thin kernels may also cause issues with plumpness specs.
Farmers can protect Saskatchewan barley quality by focusing on on-farm decisions:
- Choosing the right harvest window
- Using proper grain drying techniques
- Storing grain to maintain quality and prevent spoilage
Good management could be the difference between hitting malt specs and selling into the feed market.
Watch: Malt Barley Quality Targets | Featuring Doug Monroe of Boortmalt – YouTube
Lower Disease Risk, but Stay Vigilant
The dry season has kept many diseases in check, including Fusarium Head Blight. While the risk is lower, scouting remains important.
The 2025 malt barley harvest in Saskatchewan may not produce record yields, but there is still opportunity for quality premiums. Strategic harvest timing and careful storage could help farmers make the most of the year’s challenges.
Check out the latest Crop Report from Saskatchewan Agriculture
This article is taken from the 2025 Malt Barley Harvest Considerations webinar hosted by CMBTC, Alberta Grains, Manitoba Crop Alliance and SaskBarley. Watch the below video for the 2025 Canadian barley growing conditions and crop update provided by Peter Watts, Managing Director of the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre (CMBTC).
