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.

Following a tense dispute over water rights this spring, Idaho farmers have reached a preliminary agreement on a new water mitigation plan. The potential deal was introduced to the Idaho Legislature’s Natural Resources Interim Committee, though it is not yet final. This agreement, which breaks water allotments into four-year terms rather than annual ones, will require groundwater districts to conserve 205,000 acre-feet of water yearly, with monthly measurements for accountability.The Idaho Ground Water Association expressed optimism about the agreement and the proposed plan is slated for ratification in mid-November.

In September, wheat futures in Chicago, Kansas, and Minneapolis rallied by nearly $1, driven by strong global demand, unfavorable weather in major growing regions, and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Black Sea. Looking ahead, wheat prices are expected to remain relatively stable, with moderate fluctuations. Key players in global wheat production—such as China, the European Union, India, and Russia—remain crucial to supply. Idaho’s high-quality wheat is a key player in meeting demand, especially for export markets. With demand consistently surpassing production, the wheat market remains vulnerable to weather issues and geopolitical instability, which could drive prices higher in 2025.

A certified crop advisor at Infinity Ag in Cottonwood, has seen unprecedented mice damage in fields during the 2023-24 winter and 2024 spring. This level of infestation is unlike anything they've experienced. The worst-affected areas include Terhaar Butte, Greencreek, Cottonwood, and Fenn, with damage seen across various farming practices, though no-till fields were hit harder due to more ground cover. While the damage impacted all crops, winter wheat suffered the most, as it remained in the field all winter. With limited research explaining the spike in the mouse population, proactive measures will be essential to controlling the problem this fall.

U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) has released its 2024 U.S. Crop Quality Report, providing essential data on five of the six U.S. wheat classes, covering grades, flour, dough, and baking characteristics. Funded by the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service and state wheat commissions, the report includes comprehensive analysis of wheat samples gathered during and after harvest. USW will further share this information globally through its Crop Quality Seminars, featuring teams of USW representatives and wheat experts across various regions.

The falling number test measures pre-harvest sprouting and starch damage due to the enzyme alpha-amylase. Inconsistent results from the current test can be devastating, as shown in the Pacific Northwest’s 2016 wheat crisis, which caused $140 million in losses. Researchers continue to develop the new test, aiming for a tool that can ensure quality, benefit wheat breeders, and improve industry standards for the future.

The USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, in partnership with the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), awarded $5.5 million to 27 projects under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. The funding aims to strengthen Idaho’s food system, diversify agricultural markets, create new revenue streams for small and mid-sized producers, and support local communities. The grants include 21 equipment and six infrastructure projects, ranging from small commercial kitchens to well-known Idaho agricultural businesses. A portion of these funds will be used to enhance the transportation of wheat and other grain crops.