Idaho has committed an additional $10 million to support projects aimed at restoring the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer, which has been declining due to factors like growth, drought, and changes in irrigation practices. The funds are intended to reverse the aquifer's declining water levels as part of a water management strategy, with farmers playing a key role in providing solutions. Funding will be used for projects that benefit both senior and junior water rights holders, The projects identified will help secure water supplies for surface irrigators, expand aquifer recharge, and support Idaho's agricultural economy, which includes its vital wheat industry.

The USDA has approved a transgenic, drought-tolerant wheat trait known as HB4, developed by Bioceres Crop Solutions, marking the first time such a trait has been deregulated for wheat in the U.S. However, wheat industry leaders caution that it will take years and additional steps before the trait is commercially available. The Pacific Northwest wheat commissions (Idaho, Oregon, and Washington) support new technologies like HB4 but stress that commercialization is still several years away. The National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) acknowledges the potential benefits of drought-tolerant wheat for global supply challenges and sustainability, but also underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and careful monitoring of Bioceres' commercialization plans PNW wheat commissions statement on genetically modified wheat trait

A recent University of Idaho report highlights the significant role agriculture plays in Idaho's economy, showing that the sector generated $37.5 billion in sales in 2022, which is 17% of the state's total economic output. Agriculture was responsible for 126,800 jobs, amounting to one in every nine jobs in the state, and contributed 12.8% to Idaho’s gross state product (GSP). Idaho wheat is a key agricultural product, and is integral to this economic contribution, reflecting the state’s robust farming sector.

Idaho wheat growers are experiencing a significant zinc deficiency that is reducing yields by 3.5 to 4 bushels per acre annually. This deficiency, which affects seedling vigor and emergence, is largely due to soil conditions such as high pH and low temperatures. Zinc is essential for early plant growth and germination, and a lack of it can weaken plants and slow their development. To prevent this, it is crucial to provide immediate zinc availability at germination. While various zinc products exist, recent research highlights zinc oxide, particularly in its micronized form (MicroFuze), as the most effective for seed treatments.

Residents of Genesee rallied together to support the development of a new culinary arts program at Genesee School. Donations ranged from large kitchen items like ovens and stand mixers to small utensils and a wheat grinder, symbolizing the farming community's involvement. The Idaho Wheat Commission played a significant role by donating $2,500 for new ovens, with Vice Chair Joe Anderson attending the open house as a representative. The new culinary arts classroom, which was remodeled over the summer with extensive community help, will also represent the agricultural heritage of the area.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced today its decision to deregulate the drought-tolerate HB4® trait in wheat. The wheat commissions of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, representing Pacific Northwest (PNW) wheat producers, provided the following statement to address some of the questions that may arise from this announcement, especially from our valued customers around the world:

From 2012 to 2022, the U.S. saw its market share drop by 0.2 percentage points, making it the second-largest exporter to the Southeast Asia, following China. However, the value of U.S. agricultural exports to Asia has grown by $4.8 billion over the last decade. U.S. exports face growing competition from countries like Brazil and Australia. In 2022, wheat was among the top U.S. exports to Southeast Asia, valued at $1.46 billion. As the demand for commodities like wheat continues to rise in Southeast Asia, Idaho's wheat production plays a vital role in meeting this growing need, highlighting the importance of maintaining competitive advantages in global markets.