IDAHO WHEAT COMMISSION

News

New Crop Soft White Production is Up; Functionality is Good

The 2024 Pacific Northwest (PNW) soft white (SW) wheat crop benefited from favorable growing conditions, including ample moisture and moderate temperatures, resulting in a typical protein distribution and good functionality. This year's crop features weak to medium gluten strength, making it suitable for various products like crackers, noodles, and breads. The high-protein segment offers blending opportunities for a wide range of baked goods. Idaho, a significant contributor to this production, continues to showcase the versatility of its wheat, particularly in specialized products like sponge cakes and Asian noodles. Idaho wheat remains a crucial part of the broader PNW wheat market, enhancing the region’s offerings to both domestic and international markets.

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December 2, 2024
How U.S. Agriculture Can Win the Greenhouse Gas Battle
A new report highlights the potential for U.S. agriculture, including Idaho wheat farming, to achieve greenhouse gas (GHG) negativity within the next five to ten years through conservation practices and emerging technologies. The study highlights how sustainable practices can both reduce emissions and improve profitability for farmers.For Idaho wheat growers, these findings are especially promising. Implementing practices that lower input costs while enhancing soil health aligns with the region’s commitment to sustainability. By adopting these strategies, Idaho farmers can not only contribute to combating climate change but also bolster their long-term profitability and preserve the state’s agricultural legacy.
December 2, 2024
The Power of Break-Even Analysis in Crop Planning and Marketing
Understanding your expected yields and the financial investments needed to achieve them is vital for a successful harvest. For Idaho wheat farmers, combining this information with updated data on expenses and market trends is especially important. By calculating your break-even point you gain a clear picture of your financial standing. This insight is crucial for making informed decisions about pricing, crop selection, cost management, and marketing strategies. Regularly reviewing your break-even point, particularly in collaboration with your lender, ensures that you can adapt to market fluctuations and make sound financial decisions.
December 2, 2024
Weather Expert Predicts Mild Winter, Cold Blasts Possible in the Pacific Northwest
Meteorologists are forecasting a mild winter for the Pacific Northwest, with below-average precipitation and above-average temperatures. Southern Oregon, Idaho, and interior regions, including wheat-growing areas, are expected to face slightly below-normal precipitation. While snowpack levels may be near normal, rain is likely to outpace snow, with most snowfall occurring at higher elevations. Despite being a La Niña year—typically associated with wet, cool conditions in the Pacific Northwest— its current central Pacific development will result in weaker low-pressure systems, reducing moisture across much of the U.S.
December 2, 2024
New Idaho Water Agreement Officially Complete
The Surface Water Coalition (SWC) and nine groundwater districts from the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer (ESPA) have finalized the 2024 Stipulated Mitigation Plan, an updated agreement built under Governor Brad Little’s Protecting Idaho Water Sovereignty Act. This collaborative effort seeks to safeguard the health of the aquifer, support Idaho’s agricultural economy, and uphold the state’s longstanding prior appropriation doctrine. Negotiators from SWC and the groundwater districts attributed the plan’s success to open dialogue and cooperative problem-solving, which helped resolve lingering disputes and create a pathway toward long-term solutions for Idaho’s water challenges.
December 2, 2024
Idaho Wheat Chairman Joins Governor’s Trade Mission to Taiwan and Japan
Governor Brad Little recently concluded a successful seven-day trade mission to Taiwan and Japan, joined by the Idaho Department of Commerce, the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, The Idaho Wheat Commission, and 21 other Idaho businesses and organizations. During the visit, Governor Little and the delegation met with the Taiwan Flour Mills Association to deepen the valuable partnership between Idaho wheat growers and Taiwanese millers. The mission focused on reinforcing economic ties and identifying new opportunities to expand trade with two of Idaho's key international partners