IDAHO WHEAT COMMISSION

News

Goal: Develop Idaho wheat resistant to wireworms by novel RNA interference technology

Dr. Arash Rashed, Kimberly Andrews, Fangming Xiao

‍Wireworms are the immature stage of all click beetle species (Coleoptera: Elateridae). In the recent decade, wireworms have been resurging as devastating pests of a wide range of crops in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) region of the United States. Wireworms can stay in the soil for several years (up to 10 years) and infest crops in almost any rotation. Idaho Wheat Commission has funded University of Idaho researchers to study wireworm ecology, management, and the expected yield loss to this pest.

This project was developed to identify vital genes that could negatively impact wireworm survival and confirm the downregulation of those vital genes by injecting the wireworms with laboratory-constructed dsRNA. This information would facilitate developing resistant wheat genotypes, should there be a market for such products.

June 17, 2025
Unsettled Tariff Situation Disrupts Transportation
Transportation, a cornerstone of the U.S. agricultural and food industries, is under strain due to ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade disruptions. New levies, retaliatory tariffs, and port fees have slowed imports of key food inputs—such as grains, oils, sweeteners, and packaging—raising costs across the supply chain. Ocean freight and trucking have been hit hard, with price volatility expected to push costs onto consumers. Domestic rail has remained a reliable and cost-effective mode for moving agricultural products, offering stability amid the chaos. The broader uncertainty surrounding trade policies and transportation infrastructure is causing industry-wide anxiety, making it difficult for producers, manufacturers, and shippers to plan ahead.
June 17, 2025
Competitive Window Boosts New Crop U.S. Wheat Sales
The U.S. wheat industry is seeing a resurgence in competitiveness as the 2025/26 marketing year begins, driven by favorable conditions including a weaker dollar, improved weather, and reduced trade barriers following USTR rulings on Section 301 actions against China. This price competitiveness has fueled a sharp increase in export sales. Since mid-April, U.S. wheat sales have surged 170%, with 3.1 million metric tons (MMT) booked in just five weeks. Key buyers like Mexico, Japan, and the Philippines increased purchases, and non-traditional markets such as Mauritius returned to buying U.S. wheat after a long hiatus.
June 17, 2025
PNW Wheat Leaders Hope to Avoid Extreme Heat Pre-Harvest
Pacific Northwest wheat leaders are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming harvest, hoping to avoid extreme heat and secure timely rain. Each voiced concerns over weather volatility, rising input costs, and regulatory pressures impacting wheat growers. They warned of potential crop damage in Idaho without imminent rain, and noted long-term challenges for farm viability amid global competition and political uncertainty. All emphasized the need for farmer advocacy, improved infrastructure, and ongoing investment in wheat research. Despite hardships, they urged fellow growers to stay involved and keep sharing their stories to ensure agriculture’s future.
June 17, 2025
Idaho Wheat Commissioner Joins U.S. Wheat Team Exploring Challenges and Opportunities in Egypt, Morocco and Portugal
Idaho Wheat Commissioner Cory Kress participated in a U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) Board Team trip to Egypt, Morocco, and Portugal to engage with customers and explore market opportunities for U.S. wheat. Led by USW staff, the trip aimed to strengthen relationships, showcase the value of U.S. wheat, and understand market challenges. The team toured flour mills, pasta factories, and bakeries, and met with millers, importers, and food companies. The trip highlighted both opportunities and challenges in expanding U.S. wheat market share and emphasized the unique technical support and service USW provides.
June 13, 2025
Idaho Wheat Wants to Take YOU out to the Ballgame
We are teaming up with Idaho Barley and the Idaho Grain Producers Association for Idaho Grain Night with the Idaho Falls Chukars on Saturday, July 19, 2025. The first pitch will be thrown at 7:05pm. Scan the QR code or click the link below to reserve your FREE tickets now.