Heather Miller
Grain Originator - Great Lakes Grain - Brigden, Dutton and Glencoe

Harvest season is wrapping up across AGRIS Co-operative territory, and early results are painting a positive picture for many growers.

Soybean Harvest

Soybean harvest across AGRIS Co-operative geography has seen a steady pace and is now nearly complete. Yields have been stronger than many estimated during Crop Tour, and quality has been very good. However, moisture levels have been on the low side, with many soybeans coming off around 10%.

Corn Update

Corn harvest has begun on lighter soils that were planted in late April. Some later fields have yet to reach black layer, so moistures remain high. It’s still too early to assess vomitoxin levels, but based on Crop Tour observations, the corn crop appeared clean and healthy.

Winter Wheat Planting

Favourable fall weather has allowed many drills to follow the combine, and wheat acres are in the ground. Drier conditions now mean we could use some rain to promote emergence, but overall, planting conditions were excellent.

Market Outlook

Soybean markets have been moving based on speculation around potential U.S. exports to China. Even if sales occur, logistics mean any shipments would take five to six weeks to move, and by late November, China typically transitions its purchases to South America. This has led to short-lived rallies, followed by pullbacks. With U.S. soybean yields holding strong and comfortable carryout numbers, future price movement may depend on weather or production issues in South America.

For those storing soybeans, there’s opportunity in the market carry to winter months—you’re being well paid to store.

Corn markets have been relatively steady. Old crop values have disappeared, and we’re now trading new crop. Basis levels remain historically strong, supported by solid exports last year and tighter local supplies. With smaller overall yields in Ontario due to summer drought conditions, corn demand should remain strong moving forward.

Work with Your Local Grain Team

Now is the time to review your marketing strategy. Reach out to your local grain team at AGRIS Co-operative—they’re ready to help you plan ahead and make the most of your marketing opportunities.