Pulse seeding in Saskatchewan is expected to start on time this spring if the weather co-operates.

Saskatchewan Pulse Growers executive director Carl Potts anticipates a 10 per cent decline in seeded area for peas, as well as a five per cent reduction for lentils, which he attributes to competition with other crops and root disease in some areas.

On the other hand, Potts expects a large rise in chickpea acres due to strong prices, likely around a 30 to 35 per cent increase.

He says some pulse growers in Saskatchewan may have to wait a while until the large snowpack fully melts before hitting the fields.

Despite a slowdown in pea exports, Potts believes the pulse industry in Saskatchewan is on track to meet its export estimates, and demand for pulses is growing and staying strong.