HUSA Aug 20 2026 - Michael Torrie

Michael, a farmer, reports on the progress of harvesting winter wheat which has been delayed due to recent rains. While the rain slowed them down and affected the color of the wheat, it did not significantly downgrade the quality as the wheat is contracted to feedlots that prioritize protein and other qualities over appearance. The farming operations use MacDon Flex Drapers, which effectively collect wheat from the ground regardless of its inclination due to weather effects. The current wheat variety, AAC Wildfire, is popular in southern Alberta for its high yield and suitability for irrigation, which suits their operations as they focus on yield rather than milling quality. The interview touched upon grain yield, with Michael remarking that their yields vary but are around 100 bushels per acre for winter wheat, achieved without precise equipment calibration. Crop Variability and Marketing Strategies Besides winter wheat, Michael’s farm is also working on perennial ryegrass and plans to move onto Durham wheat and canola. Past ryegrass yielded well, while the outlook for Durham is expected to yield around 80 bushels per acre, though it is sensitive to diseases like ergot. The dryness aids in combating ergot, none of which has been seen in five years. Canola is grown for seed production, and other crops include dry beans and red lentils, although lentils have been impacted by mold due to the year’s heavy rains. The market for some crops like yellow beans is limited, where Michael notes a collapsed U.S. buyer affecting demand. Nevertheless, great northern edibles, yellows, and pintos are grown, with yellows noted for their higher potential market value if consumer awareness increases. Harvest Practices and Challenges Discussions on farm practices include using grain carts to prevent field damage by heavy trucks, though not universally necessary in their sandy soil environment. Swathing is occasionally employed to counter sawfly damage, though growing solid-stemmed wheat varieties is preferred for prevention. The farm previously grew alfalfa but exited several years ago due to market instability. Challenges mentioned also include the use of fungicides to combat plant-killing mold on red lentils caused by extensive rain.