Bioceres Crop Solutions Corp. received a U.S. patent allowance for HB4 wheat, a drought-tolerant variety approved for U.S. cultivation in 2024. HB4 wheat improves drought resistance, enhances weed management, and boosts yields by 20% in water-limited conditions. Bioceres pledges responsible commercialization, aligning with U.S. Wheat Associates’ biotechnology principles. While stakeholders are cautiously optimistic, industry leaders emphasize preserving market choice for non-GMO wheat buyers. The U.S. joins Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay in approving HB4 wheat cultivation.

Jamie Kress was recently elected Vice President of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG), the leading advocate for wheat growers in Washington, D.C., working to secure a stronger future for America’s farmers and the wheat industry. Jamie and her husband, Cory, own and operate an 8,500-acre dryland farm in the Rockland Valley of eastern Idaho, primarily producing winter and spring wheat alongside a variety of rotational crops. Jamie has served as President of the Idaho Grain Producers Association (IGPA) and has held multiple leadership roles within NAWG, including positions on the Board of Directors, the Budget Committee, and as Chair of the Domestic & Trade Policy Committee.

The Port of Lewiston, Idaho’s only seaport, began operations in 1975 after the completion of Lower Granite Dam, offering a crucial transportation alternative for agricultural and bulk goods. Over the past 50 years, it has played a vital role in economic resilience. The port’s integration with rail, truck, and river barge transportation has helped inland producers compete in international markets, with wheat and grains forming the bulk of outbound shipments. As the region’s economic anchor, the Port of Lewiston continues to shape industry, job growth, and economic stability, positioning itself for another 50 years of regional development.

The current administration’s new tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China threaten American agriculture, a $191 billion export sector. The tariffs—25% on Canada and Mexico and doubled to 20% on Chinese goods—have sparked trade wars, leading to retaliatory levies on U.S. products like wheat and poultry. U.S. farm groups warn that higher costs and reduced exports could strain farmers already facing financial losses. The ongoing trade disputes have caused disruptions, with some Canadian grocers canceling orders from U.S. farmers. Industry leaders warn that these tariff wars are harming those dependent on global trade.

During her address at the USDA’s 101st Agricultural Outlook Forum, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins highlighted the critical role of agriculture in America’s survival and the challenges facing the industry. She emphasized that agriculture is not just an economic sector but a fundamental part of the nation's identity and sustainability. Rollins described the current state of the agricultural economy as dire, citing a record trade deficit of $45.5 billion, a 30% rise in production costs, a shrinking number of farms, and an aging farmer population. She pledged to introduce major policy initiatives to address these concerns. Rollins expressed her commitment to supporting farmers and working closely with industry leaders over the next four years.

Soft white wheat from the Pacific Northwest is gaining popularity in Mexico, with 2.9 million bushels purchased by the end of December, surpassing the five-year average for the country. Mexico, traditionally favoring red wheat varieties, has seen increased demand due to lower soft white wheat prices and efforts by U.S. Wheat Associates to promote the variety. Soft white wheat is used in Mexico's cookie, cracker, and baked goods industries. The 2024-2025 marketing year could mark a turning point in Mexico's relationship with U.S. white wheat, potentially becoming a significant growth area for PNW wheat growers. However, the impact of impending U.S. tariffs on Mexico and other countries remains uncertain.

Farmers and industry staff from southeastern and eastern Idaho took part in a Direct Seed Workshop hosted by the Idaho Wheat Commission this week, where they explored best practices for managing no-till crops and producing a healthy harvest. This year’s workshop covered essential topics, including grain bin safety, soil health, the benefits of using stripper headers, and a discussion on HB4 drought-tolerant wheat. The Idaho Wheat Commission remains dedicated to providing educational opportunities and programs that help wheat producers improve sustainability and profitability.