The Pacific Northwest Soft White (SW) Wheat Quality Report provides a comprehensive overview of the unique attributes and performance of SW wheat grown across Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its light color, low moisture content, and soft texture, SW wheat is highly valued in global markets, especially for products requiring tender textures, like cakes, cookies, and certain snack foods. By detailing annual quality and harvest data, the report underscores the Pacific Northwest's commitment to producing top-tier soft white wheat that meets the evolving needs of both domestic and international markets.

Drought is impacting winter wheat crops globally, with about 52% of U.S. winter wheat under drought conditions. Pacific Northwest states show mixed crop conditions: Idaho has 6% of wheat rated as excellent, Oregon 16%, and Washington 8%. Despite drought, global wheat supplies remain fairly high, leading to pressure on prices. In the U.S. Soft white wheat in the Pacific Northwest shows average protein levels of 9.2% (lower than last year's 11.1%), with improved exports due to good performance and competitive pricing.

In 2023, Idaho led the Western U.S. in per capita farm revenue, generating $5,617 per Idahoan, which underscores the vital role of agriculture in the state’s economy. Idaho's farm revenue remains strong, even as population growth has increased. Idaho’s total farm-gate revenue reached $11.036 billion in 2023, positioning it third in the West behind California and Washington. Agriculture’s growth and importance in Idaho are evident, as the state’s per capita farm revenue remains high among 11 Western states.

Following a tense dispute over water rights this spring, Idaho farmers have reached a preliminary agreement on a new water mitigation plan. The potential deal was introduced to the Idaho Legislature’s Natural Resources Interim Committee, though it is not yet final. This agreement, which breaks water allotments into four-year terms rather than annual ones, will require groundwater districts to conserve 205,000 acre-feet of water yearly, with monthly measurements for accountability.The Idaho Ground Water Association expressed optimism about the agreement and the proposed plan is slated for ratification in mid-November.

In September, wheat futures in Chicago, Kansas, and Minneapolis rallied by nearly $1, driven by strong global demand, unfavorable weather in major growing regions, and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Black Sea. Looking ahead, wheat prices are expected to remain relatively stable, with moderate fluctuations. Key players in global wheat production—such as China, the European Union, India, and Russia—remain crucial to supply. Idaho’s high-quality wheat is a key player in meeting demand, especially for export markets. With demand consistently surpassing production, the wheat market remains vulnerable to weather issues and geopolitical instability, which could drive prices higher in 2025.

A certified crop advisor at Infinity Ag in Cottonwood, has seen unprecedented mice damage in fields during the 2023-24 winter and 2024 spring. This level of infestation is unlike anything they've experienced. The worst-affected areas include Terhaar Butte, Greencreek, Cottonwood, and Fenn, with damage seen across various farming practices, though no-till fields were hit harder due to more ground cover. While the damage impacted all crops, winter wheat suffered the most, as it remained in the field all winter. With limited research explaining the spike in the mouse population, proactive measures will be essential to controlling the problem this fall.

U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) has released its 2024 U.S. Crop Quality Report, providing essential data on five of the six U.S. wheat classes, covering grades, flour, dough, and baking characteristics. Funded by the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service and state wheat commissions, the report includes comprehensive analysis of wheat samples gathered during and after harvest. USW will further share this information globally through its Crop Quality Seminars, featuring teams of USW representatives and wheat experts across various regions.