Pulse and Soybean growers reflect on a year of challenges and success

For Manitoba's pulse and soybean growers, 2024 was a year of unexpected challenges and surprising success. Daryl Domitruk, Executive Director of the Manitoba Pulse and Soybean Growers (MPSG), reflected on the year, noting that early conditions didn’t inspire much optimism.

“Our crops went into cold, dry ground that quickly turned wet and stormy. We were bracing for a tough year,” Domitruk said.

However, as the season progressed, weather conditions improved, creating an environment particularly favorable for soybeans and dry beans. The result? Strong yields that helped compensate for lower-than-usual market prices.

“Peas were a bit more variable because they don’t handle excess moisture well, but even there, we had decent results,” Domitruk added. “Looking back, 2024 was a solid year for our industry.”

As farmers across the prairies turn their attention to 2025, optimism remains steady. Soybeans continue to attract interest due to their ability to reduce fertilizer and crop protection costs, while dry beans have cemented Manitoba’s status as Canada’s top producer of the crop. Domitruk highlighted the growing interest in diversifying into high-management, high-return crops like dry beans, especially in western Manitoba.

Other legumes, including peas and even niche crops like lupins, also present opportunities for Manitoba growers. MPSG is encouraging farmers to experiment with new crops and explore diversification options, which could further strengthen the industry in the coming years.

Looking ahead, MPSG is gearing up for a busy start to 2025. The organization will have a significant presence at Ag Days in Brandon later this month, featuring a Thursday morning speaker series on sustainability platforms, market outlooks, and diversification opportunities. Ag Days attracts farmers from all across Manitoba and the prairie provinces being one the biggest events in Western Canada each year.