IDAHO WHEAT COMMISSION

News

Agencies Track Wild, Hatchery Fish in Columbia, Snake Rivers

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.

‍

October 10, 2024
Industry Cautiously Measures Market Response to GM Wheat Trait
Bioceres Crop Solutions, an Argentina-based company, is developing its genetically modified (GM) drought-tolerant wheat trait (HB4) in accordance with U.S. biotech commercialization principles, as confirmed by U.S. Wheat Associates. The USDA approved the HB4 trait for cultivation in the U.S. in August, expanding potential wheat production by nearly 9.9 million acres. U.S. Wheat noted that negative public opinion on GM crops may be easing, and the introduction of HB4 wheat could pave the way for future GM traits. U.S. wheat commissions remain cautiously optimistic about the commercialization of the HB4 trait, stressing the need to meet market demands without harming existing trade.
October 10, 2024
Federal Negotiations Reaffirmed Congressional Authority Over Snake River Dams
The ongoing debate over breaching the lower Snake River dams centers on the fact that only Congress has the authority to make such a decision, despite continuous efforts to pressure the administration into taking executive action, according to Anthony Pena, government relations manager for the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA). Though damaging legislation has been successfully blocked so far, Pena warned that advocates for dam breaching remain well-funded and resolute. Pena called on stakeholders to intensify their nationwide advocacy efforts.
October 10, 2024
Ground and Surface Water Users Eye November as New Deadline for Mitigation Plan
Groundwater and surface water users in Idaho are working on a new mitigation plan, with a potential deadline now set for November 1. Despite the extension, terms have been agreed upon, and efforts are underway to ensure all parties fully understand them. The Idaho Department of Water Resources had previously announced a temporary deal to replace the problematic 2015 mitigation plan for eastern Idaho farmers. Adam Young, a Bingham County farmer and board member of the Bingham Groundwater District, emphasized the importance of carefully reviewing the terms to avoid ambiguity.
October 10, 2024
U.S. Ag Facing Trifecta of Infrastructure Disruptions
The U.S. agricultural sector faces significant risks from three major disruptions to shipping infrastructure, according to the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and nearly 200 organizations. The NGFA warned that stalled labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance could lead to a strike or lockout, affecting 40% of U.S. containerized agricultural exports. In addition, Mexican-imposed rail embargoes threaten the flow of agricultural goods to Mexico, one of the largest markets for U.S. products. These transportation issues are worsening financial strain for U.S. farmers.
October 10, 2024
Grain Craft Acquiring Utah-Based Milling Company
Grain Craft is well-known in the flour milling industry and has acquired Central Milling, Inc., a prominent supplier of organic flour in the U.S. Central Milling, based in Logan, Utah, has been in operation for over 150 years. The company operates three mills in Utah and has a strong reputation in the artisan baking community, offering a variety of organic flours and grains. The acquisition aims to strengthen both companies, with Grain Craft bringing resources and relationships to support Central Milling’s growth while preserving its commitment to sustainability and traceability in sourcing wheat directly from growers.