IDAHO WHEAT COMMISSION

News

Featured Idaho Wheat News

The most relevant industry news curated specifically for Idaho’s wheat growers.

Idaho Wheat Farmers Recognized for Excellence in Agriculture

Read More

Idaho Wheat Hosts Japan Biscuit Association Trade Team

Read More

Idaho Wheat Hosts Philippine Trade Team

Read More

Latest News

Idaho's Agriculture Industry Still Producing More Than Ever

Idaho wheat farmers are able to do more witih less. Despite the reduction in farmland, Idaho's agricultural sector remains strong due to modern farming practices. However, concerns persist as 60% of farms report net losses, and many small farms, often considered 'hobby farms,' struggle economically due to high costs and lucrative offers for their land. Neighboring states to Idaho are also part of a national trend of decreasing farmland. Between 2017 and 2022 the country has lot more than 20 million farmland acres.

Inland Pacific Northwest Aphid Numbers Up Slightly, But Not An Outbreak Year

Aphid activity has recently increased in parts of the inland Pacific Northwest, including Idaho. According to the University of Idaho research team, cereal grass aphid numbers were above average in some areas of Genesee but remained normal in others. Many aphid species migrate to the Palouse from lower elevations during late spring. Although aphids are present in cereal crops, they are unlikely to pose a significant threat this summer for wheat farmers.

Idaho Wheat Farmer Talks Impact of Removing Snake River Dams

The Lower Snake River dams are essential to Idaho wheat farmers for transporting wheat via barges from the Port of Lewiston to international markets through the Port of Portland. The removal of the dams is being considered to save endangered salmon species, supported by scientists, tribes, and environmentalists, but opposed by many farmers and local businesses who rely on the dams for transportation, irrigation, and electricity. Idaho wheat farmer, Bill Flory, who farms land that has been in his family since 1904, understands the complexities of this issue and acknowledges the need for tough discussions on alternative transportation logistics.

Farmers Build Momentum on New Water Agreement

Governor Brad Little and Lt. Governor Scott Bedke praised Idaho farmers' progress in negotiating a new agreement to protect water rights and agriculture. Groundwater and surface water users met in Pocatello to work on an improved mitigation plan. Governor Little emphasized the importance of farmers collaborating rather than relying on government-imposed solutions, expressing optimism for a lasting solution that supports eastern Idaho’s economy and preserves the aquifer.

Idaho Wheat Hosts South Korea Crop Tour Trade Team

Reaching Out to Farmers and Ranchers in Crisis

The American Farm Bureau conducted a survey in which farmers and farmworkers identified the following impacts to farmers' mental health.

USDA Forecasts Higher U.S. Wheat Production

The USDA's current WASDE report projects that the carryover of wheat on June 1, 2025, will be 856 million bushels. This is an increase of 13% from the June outlook of 758 million bushels, 22% higher than the 702 million bushels in 2024, and 50% more than the 570 million bushels in 2023. The 2025 carryover projection for all wheat classes is near the higher end of trade expectations. However, the USDA's updated estimate for 2024 production significantly exceeds trade estimates.

Our Weekly Newsletter

Sign up for our newsletter for weekly Idaho
wheat events, news and updates.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.