From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat

The University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) plays a vital role in supporting Idaho’s wheat industry—from developing improved wheat varieties to preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders. Join us for From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat as we talk with J.R. Simplot Endowed Dean, Dean Leslie Edgar, about her vision for the future and how CALS collaborates with growers, researchers, and industry leaders to advance productivity, sustainability, and profitability across Idaho’s wheat fields.

The Columbia and Snake River dams deliver clean, reliable, and affordable power across the Northwest—but their impact goes far beyond electricity. These river systems play a crucial role in supporting Idaho agriculture, managing floods, and keeping transportation flowing throughout the region. Join us for our next From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat, as we sit down with Clark Mather, Executive Director of Northwest River Partners, to explore how these vital river systems support the Idaho wheat industry and the communities that depend on them.

We’re diving into the world of agricultural trade—a topic that influences everything from what ends up on your dinner table to the global markets Idaho wheat farmers rely on. Join us for the next episode of From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat as we sit down with Ben Conner, partner at DTB AgriTrade, to explore the complex world of trade policy, tariffs, and international agreements. Hear his firsthand insights on how trade decisions ripple through markets and impact farmers, and gain practical guidance to navigate the policies and tariffs that affect your bottom line.

The University of Idaho maintains a strong partnership with Limagrain Cereal Seeds (LCS), particularly in developing new wheat varieties. This collaboration, known as Varsity Idaho, focuses on joint breeding, selection, and release of innovative wheat lines. Pull up a chair for our next From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat as we sit down with Bailey Jenks, LCS regional commercial manager for the Pacific Northwest, to discuss this collaboration and its impact on Idaho wheat.

Have you ever wondered what makes wheat so unique and important around the world? Join us for our next From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat as we talk with Dr. Senay Simsek, Head of Food Science at Purdue University. With years of experience working alongside wheat growers, millers, and bakers, Senay will share how the science behind wheat’s proteins affects everything from bread and noodles to the health benefits of whole wheat — plus, she’ll clear up some common myths about wheat. Whether you’re involved in the wheat industry or just curious about the story behind this staple crop, this offers plenty of insights and practical takeaways.

The Idaho-Oregon Grain and Oilseed Convention brings together growers and ag leaders in a spirit of resilience and innovation—sharing strategies, building community, and championing growth in challenging times. Join us for our next From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat, as we sit down with Kellie Kluksdal, Director of Communications and Events for the Idaho Grain Producers Association, to get the inside scoop on this year’s convention. Why grain and oilseed, what you can expect, and how you can be a part of it.Registration link: https://tmnevents.swoogo.com/igoc2025/homeFor questions, please contact IGPA at [email protected]

The University of Idaho Extension program delivers the university’s research and expertise directly to farmers across the state. Join us for our next From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat as we sit down with Doug Finkelnburg, Area Extension Educator in Cropping Systems at the University of Idaho. We’ll discuss recent Extension updates and Doug’s work to bring university-led research into the hands of agricultural producers to address challenges. We’ll also explore new efforts to develop an up-to-date Wheat Production Guide to support Idaho wheat growers.

Herbicide-resistant weeds are quickly becoming one of the biggest challenges to sustainable wheat production in Idaho. Pull up a chair and join us for our next episode of From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat as we tackle the rising threat of herbicide resistance. Hear from University of Idaho Principal Researcher Joan Campbell as she shares insights on innovative management strategies—including the use of seed safeners and harvest weed seed control with directed energy technology—to help growers stay ahead in the fight against resistant weeds.

The Idaho State Legislature has concluded its 2025 session, and there's plenty to discuss. Join us as we sit down with Amaya Aguirre-Landa, Executive Director of the Idaho Grain Producers Association, to review the highlights of the legislative session. Discover the benefits of joining IGPA, explore the bills that were introduced, and gain insights into what we can anticipate in upcoming sessions.To learn more about IGPA visit their website atwww.idahograin.org

The U.S. wheat industry relies heavily on oceangoing vessels to reach international markets. In fact, nearly half of all U.S. wheat is exported annually—along with approximately 90% of the wheat grown in the Pacific Northwest. Join us for the next From the Field: Farm Chat with Idaho Wheat as we sit down with Jay O’Neil of Commodity Consulting. We’ll dive into the proposed trade actions targeting China's martime and shipbuilding sectors, and explore the potential impacts these measures could have on U.S. wheat farmers and exports.