The total value of Idaho's agricultural exports increased by 10 percent in the first quarter of the year, while U.S. export value decreased by 4 percent. Idaho's agricultural exports showed remarkable strength despite weaker commodity prices and a strong U.S. dollar. The state has set records for total agricultural export value for three consecutive years and is on track to set another one in the first three months of this year.

A curtailment order is currently in effect for junior groundwater users statewide, but many residents in eastern Idaho are advocating for an agreement to help farmers get through the growing season. At a public meeting hosted by the Bonneville-Jefferson Ground Water District on Wednesday morning, water district attorney Skyler Johns discussed a proposed one-year deal that would prevent curtailment and revert to a 2015 mitigation agreement.

Bringing awareness and building resilience for mental health in agriculture. Attend the Farm Stress Workshop hosted by our partners at University of Idaho Extension, Idaho Dairymen's Association, Idaho State Department of Agriculture, Dairy West, and Idaho Farm Bureau.

A debate linking food aid for needy families with crop subsidies for American farmers may slow down the renewal of a comprehensive agricultural policy law, potentially pushing congress to postpone action on the $1.5 trilllion proposal until after elections this fall. The Farm Bill is set to expire on September 30th.

The consistent decline in global wheat supplies to multi-decade lows has been a recurring concern for several years, although the situation has not been as dire as initially anticipated. This season's combination of Russian crop losses and anticipated Indian imports could drive the decline and bolster global wheat prices. This could lead to higher demand and better prices for Idaho wheat farmers.

The Grain Market Report from the International Grains Council is shedding light on significant shifts in global grain production and trade projections. The anticipated total grains producion has been revised downward. The decline is priimarily attributed to reduced estimates for sorghum and barley production. The outlook for grain trade is seeing an increase, fueled by heightened flows of wheat and maize.

Matthew Weaver, Director of the Idaho Department of Water Resources, issued a curtailment order mandating that 6,400 junior groundwater rights holders drawing from the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer cease their water usage. The directive targets groundwater users identified by the department as failing to adhere to state mitigation plans.