Retired commissioner reflects on his time with the Washington Grain Commission
By Gary Bailey
As my time serving as Wheat District 2 Commissioner for the Washington Grain Commission (WGC) comes to an end, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey it has been. Representing Washington’s wheat and barley growers has been both a privilege and a responsibility that I’ve carried with pride.
I had always wondered what happened to our wheat after it left the export markets in Portland. Joining the Washington Grain Commission would help answer that question.
I had returned to the farm in 1989 after a 12+ year stint with the farm credit system. Upon returning to the farm, I served as a director for St. John Grain Growers, which is now part of Northwest Grain Growers. The background and education I received from these organizations proved beneficial when
joining the WGC.
The mission of the WGC is to enhance the long-term profitability and competitiveness of Washington small grains and small grain producers by responsible allocation of assessment funds in research, marketing, and education. In other words, to advance our industry in ways an individual farmer could not do on their own.
Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the resilience, innovation, and determination that define our industry. From advancing cutting-edge research to expanding global markets and cultivating the next generation through both grower and public education, the work of the commission is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.
Washington wheat’s global reputation has been strong throughout my tenure on the commission. The WGC has always been transparent with our global customers, regardless of the news. It pays dividends when communicating with our customers. Building and maintaining relationships has been a focus of the WGC.
An activity that started during this time was the technical exchange of club wheat with Japan. As the leading buyer of Western White Wheat, Japanese flour millers had a desire to provide input into club varieties coming in the variety release pipeline. The exchange was instrumental in helping our club wheat breeder provide varieties that the end user prefers. It makes sense that we provide what the customer wants rather than just saying “here’s what’s available.”
A few years ago, the WGC partnered with the Idaho Wheat Commission and the Oregon Wheat Commission to fund a U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) technical position to work with millers and bakers in South America to educate them on the quality and value of U.S. wheat classes. They love the quality but, logistically, face challenges. Most companies don’t have the storage capacity to take advantage of full cargos. Companies are working together to secure the desired wheat and have it delivered to two or more ports. Collaborations between USW staff, importing companies, and export companies have led to increased sales in the region.
The WGC will continue to build new relationships along with USW, as well as build upon current relationships. USW has the boots on the ground and does a fantastic job of promoting our wheat.
Research funding is an important function on the commission. We all remember the widespread falling numbers issue we had in 2016. The commission dedicated funds to research falling numbers, which led the commission to successfully lobby to get a full time U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientist located in Pullman to lead a group of scientists to study the issue. The commission and federal funds have led to the development of a quick test for falling numbers so elevators can quickly segregate grain. Breeders have also been releasing varieties with stronger falling numbers, as well as culling weak varieties out of the pipeline.
Innovation in herbicide resistant varieties has been robust. The Clearfield and CoAXium systems are tools widely used by farmers. More recently, Rydrych MZ has been released by Washington State University (WSU), which provides a third herbicide resistant trait. Rydrych MZ has resistance to metribuzin and provides another avenue to combat grassy weeds.
It should be noted that the WSU and ARS wheat and barley breeders regularly engage the commission to get direction for the programs. Recent and ongoing discussions will center around the new biotech drought resistant trait HB4. Should we introduce the trait into our soft white wheats? Should we be proactive and get the trait introduced into our wheat and put them on the shelf for release upon acceptance? To date, our markets have been dead set against the acceptance of GMO wheats. Acceptance will not happen quickly, and there are numerous hurdles to overcome.
Speaking of GMOs, have you ever had someone tell you they don’t eat wheat products because they are all GMO? I have. There is also the perception by some that we douse our wheat with Roundup just before harvest. This really speaks to the need for continuing education. Many growers are using social media to tell wheat’s story, and they do a great job. Shows like Washington Grown also highlight ag in a positive light. The WGC provides funding to Wheat Week and Ag in the Classroom, two excellent programs that highlight wheat to elementary and secondary students.
Throughout my time on the WGC, one of the most rewarding aspects of the role has been collaborating with fellow commissioners, growers, researchers, and industry partners. While the challenges facing our industry are complex and ever-changing, I’ve learned that no single individual or organization can tackle them alone. While challenges remain, I am confident that the foundation we’ve built will support continued progress for years to come.
As I look back on my time with the WGC, I’m proud of the accomplishments our board has made. This role has not only deepened my appreciation for the challenges we face but also my hope for the opportunities that lie ahead. I would encourage producers to get involved in the industry, whether it’s grower associations, cooperative boards, or other organizations. Working together with common goals gets things done!
It’s been an honor to serve on the WGC and the USW boards. It would not have been possible without family support at home and the support of my district’s growers in Whitman County.
This article originally appeared in the January 2025 issue of Wheat Life Magazine.
