While some farmers in the region have finished their harvests, others are delaying due to poor wheat prices, with soft white wheat selling for less than $6 per bushel. U.S. Wheat Associates attributed the low prices to last year’s surplus and global oversupply, leading farmers to hesitate in selling. Doug Finkelnburg from the University of Idaho highlighted that this year’s weather resulted in a strong winter wheat crop but hurt spring wheat, which is seeing below-average yields. He also noted that while fertilizer and fuel costs have decreased, they haven’t balanced out the low grain prices.

University of Idaho researchers are utilizing drones equipped with near-infrared cameras to study water-use efficiency in different wheat and barley varieties in eastern Idaho. Jared Gibbons and Lance Hansen, UI Extension educators, obtained drone pilot licenses and conducted flights over research plots in Aberdeen, Idaho Falls, and Tetonia from early June through late July. The project, funded by a $6,000 grant, aims to identify varieties that use water more efficiently—a challenging aspect to measure. Additionally, the drones have already been used in related research, such as evaluating nitrogen fixation in alfalfa and herbicide effectiveness.

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.