The falling number test measures pre-harvest sprouting and starch damage due to the enzyme alpha-amylase. Inconsistent results from the current test can be devastating, as shown in the Pacific Northwest’s 2016 wheat crisis, which caused $140 million in losses. Researchers continue to develop the new test, aiming for a tool that can ensure quality, benefit wheat breeders, and improve industry standards for the future.

The USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, in partnership with the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), awarded $5.5 million to 27 projects under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. The funding aims to strengthen Idaho’s food system, diversify agricultural markets, create new revenue streams for small and mid-sized producers, and support local communities. The grants include 21 equipment and six infrastructure projects, ranging from small commercial kitchens to well-known Idaho agricultural businesses. A portion of these funds will be used to enhance the transportation of wheat and other grain crops.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for baked foods and cereal products has increased by 0.1%, while food-at-home prices rose 0.4%, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Idaho’s wheat, known for its quality, helps meet the demand for flour-based products and is an important part of the national food supply chain. Idaho’s wheat farmers are directly impacted by broader market shifts in ceral and bakery product prices.

As the Northern Hemisphere wheat harvest wraps up and crops in the Southern Hemisphere approach maturity, global wheat markets remain sensitive to weather-related news. Drought conditions continue to influence market fluctuations and yield projections. In the Northern Hemisphere, the 2024 wheat harvest is complete. While drought continues to affect key regions, its impact is less severe compared to previous years. However, long-term effects on production remain uncertain, as much depends on future weather conditions.

U.S. Wheat Associates has launched a new campaign promoting the quality of American wheat and its global distribution, highlighted through a video series. The series features a top U.S. Wheat customer from Mexico City, who emphasizes the reliability of the U.S. transportation system in delivering the quality of wheat he chooses. The project captures the journey of hard red winter wheat being shipped to markets in South America, Nigeria, and Africa, showcasing its global reach. It also spotlights farmers, their wheat-growing process, and how they depend on efficient transportation to move their product.

Water negotiations between surface and groundwater users are ongoing after missing Governor Brad Little's October 1 deadline for a new mitigation plan between surface and groundwater users. Although no deal was reached, Little remains optimistic, praising the progress made and emphasizing the importance of collaboration in managing water resources for agriculture. A new deadline has been discussed for November 1, but a more realistic goal may be by the end of 2024. Priorities include protecting growers from in-season water curtailment and providing long-term certainty for access by water users.

The Idaho Wheat Commission recently hosted a Risk Management Seminar featuring Dr. Xiaoli Etienne, the Idaho Wheat Endowed Chair of Risk Management and Professor at the University of Idaho. The seminar provided wheat farmers with expert insights on navigating the complexities of market volatility, weather challenges, and other farming risks. Dr. Etienne shared practical strategies to help growers protect their operations and make informed decisions in an uncertain agricultural landscape. This event highlights Idaho Wheat's commitment to empowering farmers with the tools and knowledge they need for long-term success.