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.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for baked foods and cereal products has increased by 0.1%, while food-at-home prices rose 0.4%, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Idaho’s wheat, known for its quality, helps meet the demand for flour-based products and is an important part of the national food supply chain. Idaho’s wheat farmers are directly impacted by broader market shifts in ceral and bakery product prices.

As the Northern Hemisphere wheat harvest wraps up and crops in the Southern Hemisphere approach maturity, global wheat markets remain sensitive to weather-related news. Drought conditions continue to influence market fluctuations and yield projections. In the Northern Hemisphere, the 2024 wheat harvest is complete. While drought continues to affect key regions, its impact is less severe compared to previous years. However, long-term effects on production remain uncertain, as much depends on future weather conditions.