The debate over breaching four dams on the lower Snake River to restore wild fish populations, particularly salmon and steelhead remains ongoing. Although more than 205,000 fish passed the Ice Harbor Dam last year, 56% were hatchery-raised, which Native American Tribes and environmental groups argue should not be counted toward wild fish recovery efforts. Historically, up to 2 million wild fish swam the Snake River each year, but today, wild populations are nearing extinction. Tribes and environmental advocates see dam removal as critical to saving these species, while agriculture and industry groups, including wheat growers, oppose breaching, as the rivers are vital for transporting crops. Despite ongoing recovery efforts, wild fish numbers remain low, exacerbated by worsening ocean conditions.

Southeast Asia is the third largest market for U.S. agricultural exports, following North America and East Asia. In 2023, the region imported U.S. agricultural goods valued at $12.9 billion, with soybeans, wheat, cotton, and distillers’ grains making up the majority. Wheat, the second largest U.S. export to Southeast Asia, brought in $1.3 billion. Idaho, as a top wheat-producing state, plays a significant role in this export market, contributing to the U.S.'s strong agricultural ties with Southeast Asia. The export of high-quality wheat from Idaho ensures the region receives essential grain for food production.

U.S. crop exports, particularly wheat, are important to Mexico, which is the largest buyer of U.S. wheat and corn. While there has been a steady increase in exports, trade has encountered significant issues over the past two years, including delays caused by migrant movement, sanitary regulations, and border disruptions. Rail transportation plays a crucial role in delivering U.S. wheat to Mexico, with most shipments entering through Texas. However, Mexican millers have reported increased rail delays, prompting some to seek alternative suppliers or use ocean shipping to bypass the land border. U.S. Wheat Associates has been working to address these challenges and maintain the flow of wheat exports to Mexico, emphasizing the need for collaboration across the supply chain to improve border logistics and ensure timely delivery.

As 2024 progresses, it is shaping up to be the hottest year on record, with extreme temperatures affecting global agriculture, water resources, and exacerbating drought conditions. These rising temperatures are linked to severe weather events, particularly droughts, which deplete soil moisture and lower water levels in rivers and reservoirs. This poses significant challenges for agriculture, leading to crop failures and economic stress for farmers, including those in Idaho, where wheat production is central to the state's agricultural economy. Severe droughts in parts of Idaho, like Kootenai County, have impacted wheat yields, threatening both local farmers and broader food supply chains.

Michael Parrella, dean of the University of Idaho’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS), will retire in June 2025. During his tenure, Parrella significantly advanced Idaho’s agricultural industry, especially through his leadership on major projects like the $45 million Idaho Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment (CAFE), which supports research in dairy and livestock industries. Parrella also spearheaded projects such as a new meat science facility, the Rinker Rock Creek Ranch, a potato germplasm facility, and the Idaho Wheat Commission Bill Flory Endowed Chair in Risk Management, supported by Idaho’s wheat industry. His retirement announcement allows time for a seamless leadership transition. Parrella’s contributions have been praised for moving the college forward in partnership with lawmakers and industry, leaving a lasting impact on Idaho agriculture.

University of Idaho Extension researchers in Aberdeen and Kimberly are completing the first year of trials aimed at assessing the environmental benefits of sustainable farming and ranching practices in Idaho. The trials involve crops like potatoes, wheat, barley, and chickpeas, and test practices such as cover cropping, interseeding, compost application, reduced nitrogen, and reduced tillage. These practices are designed to increase soil carbon and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The hope is that this project will strengthen relationships between researchers and producers, encouraging long-term adoption of sustainable practices.

The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) at the University of Idaho has filled two key positions. Rachael Bickerton was appointed as the new director of government and external relations, replacing Brent Olmstead.Matt Powell, a professor in the Department of Animal, Veterinary, and Food Sciences, was named interim associate dean for research and director of the Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station, following Mark McGuire. Both Bickerton and Powell are eager to strengthen partnerships and further CALS’ land grant mission.