Persistent rainfall is creating a growing harvest challenge across Canada's Prairie provinces, delaying fieldwork and raising concerns about crop quality and farm incomes.

Farmers in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba are struggling to bring crops off the fields as wet conditions continue. The delays are particularly significant for wheat, canola, durum and pulse crops.

By early September, Saskatchewan had completed only about 27% of its harvest, while Alberta was at approximately 21%, according to Reuters. Continued exposure to moisture can increase the risk of sprouting, mould, fungal damage and discoloration, potentially lowering grain grades and prices.

For some farmers, the financial consequences could be substantial if crops are downgraded or remain in the fields too long. The situation is being closely watched because Canada is a major global exporter of canola and wheat.

With more rain affecting parts of the Prairies, farmers are now racing against time to complete the harvest before colder weather arrives.

The developing weather-related harvest disruption could become an important issue for Canada's agricultural economy and food-export sector.