Group 1 and Group 2 herbicides, once essential tools for controlling weeds in wheat and other crops, are losing their effectiveness due to widespread resistance, according to Washington State University weed scientists. For Idaho wheat farmers, whose crops thrive in an exceptional growing environment, this growing challenge highlights the need for proactive and diversified weed management strategies.

The American Relief Act of 2025, passed in December, 2024, just before a potential government shutdown, allocates $31 billion for disaster and economic aid to farmers and ranchers. It also includes a second extension of the 2018 farm bill, which has been expired since September 30, 2024. While the relief act provides essential support, the absence of funding for orphan programs and reliance on ad hoc aid underscore the need for a comprehensive new farm bill in 2025. A modernized farm bill could provide a more effective safety net, reducing the necessity for emergency interventions in the future.

A new rapid test for measuring starch damage in wheat, known as the TotalTarget for Sprout Damage, is expected to be commercially available by the first quarter of 2025. Developed by EnviroLogix, the test targets grain elevators and wheat mills, with limited use anticipated by farmers. It directly measures the activity of the amylase enzyme, which indicates sprout damage or low falling number issues caused by pre-harvest sprouting or alpha-amylase activity. The introduction of this test is particularly significant for Idaho’s wheat industry, where high-quality soft white wheat is a major export. By helping preserve the premium value of sound wheat, the TotalTarget test could benefit Idaho wheat growers, enabling better segregation and reducing the risk of contamination.

The University of Idaho Extension is hosting its largest-ever cereal school, now consolidated into a single East Idaho Cereals Conference on February 5, 2025, at the Shoshone-Bannock Hotel & Event Center in Fort Hall from 9am to 4pm. Replacing six smaller events across Eastern Idaho, the new format is designed to attract more attendees—up to 280 participants—and high-caliber speakers, offering a more impactful experience for grain farmers and agriculture professionals.Key sessions include an economic outlook by UI Extension economists, updates from Idaho Wheat and Barley Commissions, a panel on water management and the National Weather Service, and discussions on pesticide regulations and drone usage.

Supported by wheat producer assessment dollars, Idaho wheat farmers and industry representatives traveled to Portland this week for the Pacific Northwest Export Marketing Tour. The visit offered an inside look at the region’s wheat industry and emphasized the Columbia-Snake River system's vital role in exporting over 50% of U.S. wheat through Portland, the world’s third-largest grain export gateway. Participants toured the Wheat Marketing Center, which evaluates Pacific Northwest wheat quality and provides technical training for international buyers. Highlights included riding a tugboat on the Willamette River, touring United Grain Terminal, visiting a commercial bakery, and hearing from Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA) and U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) representatives. For Idaho farmers, it was an opportunity to connect with the broader supply chain and gain a deeper appreciation for their role in feeding the world.

The 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) has upheld its recommendation for six daily servings of grains, with at least three being whole grains. This decision is based on grains' key role in preventing nutrient deficiencies, such as fiber, folate, iron, and magnesium. Reducing grain servings, especially for children aged 4-8 and women aged 14-50, could lead to nutrient deficiencies. Grains provide significant amounts of folate, iron, fiber, and other nutrients, with refined grains being fortified to offer higher nutrient levels than whole grains.

The recently passed continuing resolution by Congress provides temporary relief to U.S. farmers by extending the 2018 Farm Bill for one year and including a $10 billion financial aid package. Payments will be made based on acres planted or prevented from being planted in 2024, with specific per-acre rates for various crops, such as $31.80 for wheat and $43.80 for corn. Agricultural leaders view the resolution as a short-term fix, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive five-year farm bill in 2025. Agricultural leaders stress the importance of collaboration and political commitment to address long-term challenges facing the farming sector.