University of Idaho researcher Alex Maas is leading a multi-institutional study to assess how sustainable farming practices impact air quality in the western U.S. Motivated by dusty air in Moscow, Idaho, Maas will analyze air-quality sensor data spanning two decades, focusing on how weather, harvest timing, farming practices, and non-agricultural land-use factors contribute to air quality and health outcomes. Maas hopes the findings will help policymakers understand the broader environmental impact of agricultural practices and encourage new technologies that enhance sustainability while managing unintended effects on air quality.

The 2024 National Wheat Yield Contest celebrated outstanding wheat growers across four main categories, with the National Wheat Foundation (NWF). In Idaho, Clint Zenner from Genesee earned 2nd place in the Winter Wheat - Dryland category with a yield of 167.03 bushels per acre. Oree Reynolds from Castleford took 1st place in Winter Wheat - Irrigated with 220.81 bushels per acre, while Dallin Wilcox from Rexburg won 1st place in Spring Wheat - Irrigated with 169.94 bushels per acre. Other Idaho state winners included Hartlan Zenner, Mike Stout, Rylee Reynolds, Gary Reynolds, and Preston Ricks.

Months of dedicated work and collaboration—fueled in part by Idaho grower assessment dollars—go into U.S. Wheat Associates’ (USW) annual Crop Quality Report and the subsequent Crop Quality Seminars. Once complete, these efforts deliver valuable insights to wheat buyers worldwide. The Crop Quality Report provides detailed information on production conditions, kernel characteristics, milling qualities, and baking performance, offering wheat buyers and processors an in-depth view of the U.S. wheat crop’s quality and potential.

National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) CEO Chandler Goule urged Congress to pass a full farm bill by Dec. 31, warning that failing to do so could delay the bill until 2025 or later if House or Senate majorities change, which would reset priorities and leadership. Goule advised farmers to advocate for the bill during campaign season to reinforce its urgency, especially as both chambers face the complex task of securing necessary funding to address agriculture’s rising costs.

The Pacific Northwest Soft White (SW) Wheat Quality Report provides a comprehensive overview of the unique attributes and performance of SW wheat grown across Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its light color, low moisture content, and soft texture, SW wheat is highly valued in global markets, especially for products requiring tender textures, like cakes, cookies, and certain snack foods. By detailing annual quality and harvest data, the report underscores the Pacific Northwest's commitment to producing top-tier soft white wheat that meets the evolving needs of both domestic and international markets.

Drought is impacting winter wheat crops globally, with about 52% of U.S. winter wheat under drought conditions. Pacific Northwest states show mixed crop conditions: Idaho has 6% of wheat rated as excellent, Oregon 16%, and Washington 8%. Despite drought, global wheat supplies remain fairly high, leading to pressure on prices. In the U.S. Soft white wheat in the Pacific Northwest shows average protein levels of 9.2% (lower than last year's 11.1%), with improved exports due to good performance and competitive pricing.

In 2023, Idaho led the Western U.S. in per capita farm revenue, generating $5,617 per Idahoan, which underscores the vital role of agriculture in the state’s economy. Idaho's farm revenue remains strong, even as population growth has increased. Idaho’s total farm-gate revenue reached $11.036 billion in 2023, positioning it third in the West behind California and Washington. Agriculture’s growth and importance in Idaho are evident, as the state’s per capita farm revenue remains high among 11 Western states.