Agriculture Regions in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan boasts extensive agricultural field crop production volume compared to other Canadian provinces and is home to more than 40% of Canada’s cultivated farmland alone. Its fertile soil sustains a thriving agricultural industry despite a short summer growing season and harsh, freezing winters. Agriculture in Saskatchewan includes field crops, livestock rearing, and small amounts of horticulture. Growing season in the Saskatchewan typically starts in late April to mid May and harvest wraps up in early to mid October.

Where is there farming in Saskatchewan?

1. Central/Southern Saskatchewan: Most Saskatchewan agriculture falls south of the 54°N parallel in the mid and southern part of the province. Characterized by its rich, loamy soil and semi-arid climate, this 40% of the province is a major agricultural hub. Supported by 19 irrigation districts, crops such as oilseeds, cereals, lentils, and chickpeas thrive here, contributing significantly to the country’s agricultural output. Northern Saskatchewan is characterized by rocky terrain with many lakes and forested areas which makes it unsuitable for farming.

What Field Crops are grown in Saskatchewan?

• Cereals: Wheat, Barley, Oats and Triticale are staple cereal crops that form the backbone of Saskatchewan agriculture, benefiting from the province’s fertile soil and hot summer climate.
  
• Oilseeds: Camelina, Canola, Flax, Mustard and Sunflower are grown extensively in Saskatchewan. Canola is the highest oilseed crop by volume in the province and in Canada.
  
• Pulses: Saskatchewan is a leading producer of pulses such as lentils, soybeans, peas, and chickpeas, contributing to effective crop rotation strategy.
  
• Forage crops: Hay, Alfalfa, Millet, and Ryegrass are grown for livestock to graze on or to be preserved by making it into hay bales or silage for use during the winter when the ground is snow-covered

Horticulture in Saskatchewan

• Fruit and Berries: Apples, Haskap, Raspberries, Saskatoon Berries, Sea Buckthorn, Sour Cherries, Strawberries are all species native to the province and successfully grown in Saskatchewan.
  
• Greenhouse Cultivation: Greenhouses play a role in extending the growing season for vegetables like tomatoes, cabbage, cucumbers, and peppers, providing fresh produce year-round.
  
• Speciality Crops: Saskatchewan grows Canaryseed, Hemp, Wild rice and herbs and spices in smaller quantities.

What Types of Livestock Farming are there in Saskatchewan?

• Cattle Ranching: Saskatchewan’s vast grasslands in the southwestern corner of the province support cattle ranching operations and feedlots, contributing significantly to the province’s beef production. Approximately 27% of farms in Saskatchewan are beef cattle operations.
  
• Poultry and Swine Farming: Commercial poultry and swine operations are prevalent throughout the province, with modern facilities and advanced management practices. Saskatchewan is Canada’s third highest provincial producer of hogs.
  
• Dairy Farming: Dairy farms are scattered across Saskatchewan, particularly in central and southern regions, where favorable conditions support agricultural activities. Dairy farming is lower in Saskatchewan than most Canadian provinces.
  
• Specialty Livestock: Saskatchewan hosts operations specializing in niche livestock such as bison, elk, and deer, catering to niche markets and unique farming ventures. These types of farms tend to be smaller in quantity and size than other livestock operations.

Common Agriculture Jobs

• Farm Worker
• Crop Technician
• Livestock Supervisor
• Agricultural Equipment Operator
• Irrigation Specialist
• Dairy Herdsman/Herder
• Greenhouse Technician
• Poultry Farm Attendant
• Vineyard Worker
• Agricultural Researcher

Saskatchewan’s agricultural industry offers diverse opportunities for employment and economic growth, supported by its fertile lands, hot growing season climate, and industrious farmers and families.