IDAHO WHEAT COMMISSION

News

Looking Before a Leap into HB4 Wheat

Genetically modified (GM) wheat may become part of U.S. agriculture within the next decade, following USDA approval of HB4—a drought-tolerance trait developed by Bioceres Crop Solutions. While the trait shows promise, particularly in low-yielding regions like the High Plains, it is less applicable to high-yield areas such as Idaho. Breeding HB4 into U.S. wheat varieties will take 6–10 years, and concerns remain around consumer acceptance and potential export market resistance, especially from countries like Japan and China. Idaho wheat leaders support the technology but advocate for a cautious, market-driven approach, watching global reactions—particularly from Argentina—before moving forward, especially with export-sensitive classes like soft white wheat.

‍

July 2, 2025
Probing our Country’s Soil Health
There is a new nation-wide project called “Probing Our Country’s Soil Health”. It is being funded by the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). A major goal of the project is to build a national soil health database and new and improved tools for benchmarking and interpreting soil health metrics. The anonymous data will be used to expand a new and exciting tool called the Soil Health Assessment Protocol and Evaluation (or SHAPE). This tool helps provide better references for farmers seeking to understand and build soil health. Idaho growers are encouraged to join this important initiative to help shape the future of soil health practices across the nation.
July 2, 2025
Africa Sees Growing Wheat Demand
Despite a 10% decline in global wheat trade in 2024–25, Sub-Saharan Africa saw a 7% increase in imports, reaching 30 million tonnes—a significant rise from 22 million tonnes a decade ago. This growth is driven by population expansion, economic development, and affordable grain prices. Key importing countries include Nigeria, Kenya, Sudan, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. While the EU and Russia supply most of the region’s wheat, Canada and the U.S. are expanding their presence, especially as demand grows for higher-quality wheat.
July 2, 2025
Middle East Conflict Throws More Uncertainty into Global Fertilizer Markets
Renewed conflict in the Middle East has disrupted global fertilizer markets, with Iran shutting down seven urea and ammonia plants after Israeli missile strikes and attacks on gas infrastructure. Iran, a top global urea exporter, halted production alongside Egypt, which lost access to Israeli natural gas. While U.S. farmers are currently shielded from immediate price impacts, prolonged disruptions could lead to significant complications later. Analysts say peace in the Middle East and progress in Ukraine could help stabilize global fertilizer markets.
July 2, 2025
Low Potential for Spring Wheat Damage from Stripe Rust
Stripe rust season is mostly over for winter wheat and poses low risk to spring wheat due to continued dry weather, according to USDA plant pathologist Xianming Chen. Fungicide is only recommended for susceptible spring wheat varieties in irrigated or moist areas. Commercial fields saw reduced rust levels due to fungicide use and resistant varieties. Chen also warned of global concerns: new stripe rust strains virulent to the resistance gene Yr15 have emerged in Europe, causing crop damage. Although the U.S. hasn't seen these virulent strains, ongoing monitoring is essential.
July 2, 2025
Idaho Wheat Commissioners Elected at Recent Board Meeting
During the regular board meeting held in Moscow this week, Idaho Wheat Commissioners nominated and unanimously elected Commissioner Cory Kress of Rockland to serve as commission chairman for the 2026 fiscal year. At the same time, Commissioner Joe Anderson of Genesee was nominated and elected to continue serving as vice chairman. Commissioner Cliff Tacke of Greencreek previously held the position of chair. Commissioners are appointed by the governor to serve a five-year term, which may be renewed for a second term.