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# WA Grains
The Best Grain is Washington Grain
## Sitemaps
- [XML Sitemap](https://wagrains.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.
## Posts
- [At the nexus of science, farming](https://wagrains.org/articles/at-the-nexus-of-science-farming/) - WSU’s Weed Science Chair retires after 13 years, leaving behind a legacy of research, podcasts, blogs, and the Wheat and Small Grains website to support growers and Extension education.
- [Not noodling about](https://wagrains.org/articles/not-noodling-about/) - South Korea’s noodle industry heavily relies on U.S. wheat, with rising demand driven by instant noodle exports and successful flour blending innovations by U.S. Wheat Associates.
- [A win for wheat](https://wagrains.org/articles/a-win-for-wheat/) - U.S. wheat access to Indonesia was preserved in 2025 after a trade barrier was lifted through coordinated industry diplomacy, boosting sales and reaffirming farmer-funded market efforts.
- [Future of trade policy is uncertain - relationships aren't](https://wagrains.org/articles/future-of-trade-policy-uncertain-relationships-arent/) - Future of trade policy is uncertain. But for Pacific Northwest wheat farmers, long-standing relationships are here to stay.
- [Liedl named USW VP of overseas operations](https://wagrains.org/articles/liedl-named-usw-vp-of-overseas-operations/) - Brian Liedl named USW VP of overseas ops. With 20+ years in wheat trade, he’ll lead global market efforts from Portland, partnering with commissions and overseas teams.
- [From Eastern Washington to the world state](https://wagrains.org/articles/from-eastern-washington-to-the-world-state/) - Mike Carstensen elected USW secretary-treasurer for 2025–26, honoring his leadership in trade policy and dedication to Washington wheat growers.
- [A global perspective](https://wagrains.org/articles/a-global-perspective/) - USW hosted back-to-back marketing conferences in Asia, uniting over 300 wheat buyers and experts. The events fostered relationships, shared insights, and launched impactful B2B meetings.
- [Growers, meet your wheat customers](https://wagrains.org/articles/growers-meet-your-wheat-customers/) - Each year from June through October, the Washington Grain Commission (WGC) welcomes international wheat buyers who travel thousands of miles to see the source of their supply. These trade teams are composed of flour millers, bakers, food manufacturers, and grain buyers — many of whom rely on the quality and consistency of Washington-grown wheat classes,
- [Keys to a successful plant breeding program](https://wagrains.org/articles/keys-to-a-successful-plant-breeding-program/) - A successful wheat breeding program requires clear goals, genetic variation, and rigorous selection. WSU’s breeder collaborates with stakeholders to develop resilient, high-quality cultivars
- [When weather moves soil](https://wagrains.org/articles/when-weather-moves-soil/) - Frozen soil, snowmelt, and rain caused major erosion on the Palouse; no-till practices reduced soil loss, showing the value of conservation farming.
- [Unlocking yield potential](https://wagrains.org/articles/unlocking-yield-potential/) - Phosphorus can boost wheat and barley yields in acidic Eastern WA soils by reducing aluminum toxicity—especially where lime isn’t used. More research is needed to refine short-term strategies.
- [WGC welcomes new communications manager](https://wagrains.org/articles/wgc-welcomes-new-communications-manager/) - Sarah Márquez joins WGC as communications manager, bringing 20+ years’ experience to support WA grain growers with strategic, engaging, and community-focused storytelling.
- [Industry eyes South American potential](https://wagrains.org/articles/industry-eyes-south-american-potential/) - South America is a growing market for U.S. soft white wheat, with Chile, Peru, and Colombia showing increased interest despite logistical and pricing challenges.
- [2024 winter wheat variety trail results](https://wagrains.org/articles/2024-winter-wheat-variety-trail-results/) - 2025 wheat trials faced weather extremes but showed strong variety performance. LCS Jet and Shine stood out. New tools and summer plot tours aim to guide growers in variety selection.
- [Control of stripe rust in wheat, barley](https://wagrains.org/articles/control-of-strip-rust-in-wheat-barley/) - Stripe rust caused a severe epidemic in the Pacific Northwest in 2024, starting early due to a mild winter. Fungicide applications mostly controlled the rust, except in a few fields.
- [2025 quality rankings](https://wagrains.org/articles/2025-quality-rankings/) - The Washington Grain Commission's 2025 wheat quality rankings for the Pacific Northwest help growers choose high-quality varieties. The brochure evaluates wheat based on six components of end-use quality.
- [Washington wheat in a week](https://wagrains.org/articles/washington-wheat-in-a-week/) - Wheat Week teaches fourth and fifth graders about water, soil, energy, and wheat through hands-on lessons. Since 2007, it has grown to reach over 20,000 students annually, supported by the Washington Grain Commission.
- [Commissions fund scholarships](https://wagrains.org/articles/commissions-fund-scholarships/) - The annual Pacific Northwest Wheat Quality Council meeting in Portland, Ore., saw increased student attendance thanks to funding from state grain commissions.
- [Best management practices](https://wagrains.org/articles/best-management-practices/) - Maximizing herbicide effectiveness requires careful consideration of factors like application timing, environmental conditions, and proper equipment use.
- [Wheat market update](https://wagrains.org/articles/wheat-market-update/) - The Washington grain industry is closely monitoring the recent announcements regarding tariffs and potential trade barriers. This article will be updated as information becomes available.
- [Washington wheat: A favorite for SW exports](https://wagrains.org/articles/washington-wheat-a-favorite-for-sw-exports/) - Washington state leads in soft white wheat production, with 85% of its crop grown as SW. Key international markets drive strong demand for this versatile wheat.
- [Job Announcement: Manager of Communications](https://wagrains.org/articles/job-announcement-manager-of-communications/) - The Washington Grain Commission (WGC) is seeking a Manager of Communications
- [Service recognition](https://wagrains.org/articles/service-recognition/) - The Washington Grain Commission recognizes Brian Cochrane for his commission service.
- [Meeting Mexico's market needs](https://wagrains.org/articles/meeting-mexicos-market-needs/) - In 2024-25, U.S. soft white wheat purchases from Mexico more than doubled due to competitive pricing and promotion, potentially signaling a shift benefiting Washington's wheat growers.
- [Market success down south](https://wagrains.org/articles/market-success-down-south/) - Long-term investment in South America is building demand for Pacific Northwest wheat.
- [Growing market looks to U.S.](https://wagrains.org/articles/country-profile-philippines/) - Trade development activities help feed increasing wheat consumption in the Philippines.
- [Japan remains a steady buyer](https://wagrains.org/articles/japan-remains-a-steady-buyer/) - Wheat consumption has remained relatively stable in Japan due to end-product manufacturers.
- [Calling on Colombia](https://wagrains.org/articles/calling-on-colombia/) - The success of USW Santiago technical activities in Colombia using soft white wheat provides technical support from the milling process to end-product evaluation, and gives clients the ability to obtain flour sourced from the PNW.
- [Taiwan: A market mainstay](https://wagrains.org/articles/taiwan-a-market-mainstay/) - This island nation is a loyal, long-standing U.S. wheat consumer.
- [Thailand: Appreciating quality](https://wagrains.org/articles/thailand-appreciating-quality/) - This Southeast Asian country is the second largest buyer of club wheat.
- [Teaching how to weigh, measure, automate](https://wagrains.org/articles/teaching-industry-how-to-weigh-measure-and-automate/) - Wheat Life Magazine features milling and baking expert Adrian Redondo with U.S. Wheat Associates based in the Philippines.
- [U.S. Soft White Wheat in the the Philippines](https://wagrains.org/articles/industry-insights-u-s-soft-white-wheat/) - The Philippines is the second-largest market for all classes of U.S. wheat and has been the largest importer of soft white and hard red spring wheat since 2013.
- [She's going the distance](https://wagrains.org/articles/wheat-life-excusive-ting-liu/) - This U.S. Wheat Associates tech shares her love of wheat-based food with customers interested in all things wheat.
- [Better bread through science & USW](https://wagrains.org/articles/better-bread-through-science-usw/) - Wheat Life Magazine features milling and baking expert David Oh with U.S. Wheat Associates based in South Korea.
- [U.S. quality pulls demand in South Korea](https://wagrains.org/articles/u-s-quality-pulls-demand-in-south-korea/) - USW technical expertise boosts product quality, value for international customers buying U.S. wheat.
- [Wheat Life exclusive:
Peter Lloyd - 1 of 3](https://wagrains.org/articles/peter-lloyd-and-his-wheat-legacy-issue-1/) - This legend in wheat continues his quest to bring better flour to the world.
- [Wheat Life exclusive:
Peter Lloyd - 2 of 3](https://wagrains.org/articles/wgc-exclusive-peter-llyod-a-three-part-series-issue-2/) - Bringing attention to U.S. soft white wheat in the UAE takes a milling and baking expert from U.S. Wheat Associates.
- [Wheat Life Exclusive:
Peter Lloyd - 3 of 3](https://wagrains.org/articles/wgc-exclusive-peter-llyod-a-three-part-series-issue-3/) - Wheat Life Magazine features milling and baking expert Peter Lloyd with U.S. Wheat Associates.
- [New trends in China's flour market](https://wagrains.org/articles/new-trends-in-chinas-flour-market/) - USW technical expertise boosts product quality, value for international customers buying U.S. wheat.
- [Return on investment](https://wagrains.org/articles/return-on-investment/) - Training and technical support contribute to the growing demand for soft white wheat in Southeast Asia.
- [Market success built on decades of work](https://wagrains.org/articles/market-success-built-on-decades-of-work/) - The traditional North Asian U.S. wheat markets remain steady, but still require additional support.
- [Timing matters](https://wagrains.org/articles/timing-matters/) - The 2024 spring wheat variety trials reveal the impact of high temperatures.
- [Tracking biosolids](https://wagrains.org/articles/tracking-biosolids/) - The long-term agronomic impacts in dryland wheat systems are significant, influencing soil health, crop yields, and overall sustainability of agricultural practices.
- [Standard for excellence](https://wagrains.org/articles/standard-for-excellence/) - Washington State University winter wheat breeder Aaron Carter honored by the Washington Grain Commission for outstanding contributions.
- [Looking back](https://wagrains.org/articles/looking-back/) - Retired Commissioner Gary Bailey looks back on his journey with the Washington Grain Commission.
- [U.S. Wheat Associates board elects new officers](https://wagrains.org/articles/u-s-wheat-associates-board-elects-new-officers/) - The Washington Grain Commission is pleased to announce Mike Carstensen was newly elected as the organization’s next Secretary-Treasurer and will take office July in 2025.
- [Only the best](https://wagrains.org/articles/only-the-best/) - University and USDA collaboration helps bring high quality spring wheat varieties to farmers’ fields across Eastern Washington. Pacific Northwest cultivars continue to improve through growers' planting choices and ongoing research.
- [Growers receive commission appointments](https://wagrains.org/articles/growers-receive-commission-appointments/) - The Washington Grain Commission is pleased to announce appointments and reappointments to its board of commissioners.
- [Demonstrated impact](https://wagrains.org/articles/demonstrated-impact/) - WGC recognizes work of WSU spring wheat breeder, ROI to Washington growers
- [Derek Sandison reappointed](https://wagrains.org/articles/derek-sandison-reappointed/) - The Washington Grain Commission celebrates the reappointment of Derek Sandison as director of the Department of Agriculture.
- [PNW crop quality](https://wagrains.org/articles/pnw-crop-quality/) - The Wheat Marketing Center provides its 2024 Pacific Northwest crop quality assessment.
- [Fingerprinting soil](https://wagrains.org/articles/fingerprinting-soil/) - Soil organic matter is vital for soil health. Mid-infrared spectral analysis provides a quick and affordable way to measure soil properties, improving our understanding of soil carbon dynamics and supporting sustainable practices.
- [Stephens sets the bar](https://wagrains.org/articles/stephens-sets-the-bar/) - Pacific Northwest cultivars continue to improve through growers' planting choices and ongoing research. Pacific Northwest cultivars continue to improve through growers' planting choices and ongoing research.
- [US soft white wheat quality](https://wagrains.org/articles/us-soft-white-wheat-quality/) - According to the U.S. Wheat Associates organization, the 2024 U.S. soft white wheat production is up, and functionality is good.
- [The value of barley](https://wagrains.org/articles/the-value-of-barley/) - Washington's barley is grown for feed, malt, forage, and food, with feed dominating dryland areas. WSU prioritizes high-quality malt barley for market demands and farmer profit, despite infrastructure limits.
- [Celebrating malt barley](https://wagrains.org/articles/celebrating-malt-barley/) - At YaYa Brewing Company in Spokane Valley, the GRAINMAKER Festival features world-class breweries from the West Coast. Celebrating the annual grain harvest and raising money for promoting barley.
- [National Cotton Council Tour](https://wagrains.org/articles/national-cotton-council-tour/) - WGC's Mary Palmer Sullivan joined farmers and association leaders from across the U.S. in West Texas for the National Cotton Council’s Multi-Commodity Education Program. The tour fosters cross-commodity dialogue and relationship-building, creating a platform for future agricultural leadership.
- [What happened to barley?](https://wagrains.org/articles/what-happened-to-barley/) - Discounts and the rise of corn and soybean acres put a dent in barley crop production.
- [NASS small grains summary](https://wagrains.org/articles/national-agricultural-statistics-service-small-grains-summary/) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released the Small Grains Summary on September 30, 2024. The report delves into wheat and barley production in Washington State and also offers national figures.
- [New hire](https://wagrains.org/articles/new-hire/) - The Washington Grain Commission announces Jake Liening joined the commission staff as a market development specialist on Sept. 16.
- [Nature vs. nurture](https://wagrains.org/articles/nature-vs-nurture/) - Dr. Arron Carter, professor of the winter wheat breeding program and O.A. Vogel Endowed Chair of Wheat Breeding and Genetics at Washington State University, explores the measurement of phenotype by genotype by environment interactions.
- [Statement on genetically modified wheat trait](https://wagrains.org/articles/statement-on-genetically-modified-wheat-trait/) - The wheat commissions of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington provided the following statement on the APHIS decision to deregulate the drought-tolerate HB4® trait in wheat.
- [A base saturation approach](https://wagrains.org/articles/a-base-saturation-approach/) - Recommendations for optimizing wheat production in acidic soils from Washington State University soil chemist João Antonangelo.
- [River representation](https://wagrains.org/articles/river-representation/) - Wheat industry leaders hope agricultural perspective doesn’t fall on deaf ears.
- [Chumrau named agricultural trade advisor](https://wagrains.org/articles/chumrau-named-agricultural-trade-advisor/) - Casey Chumrau was appointed to serve on one of seven USDA/USTR agricultural trade advisory committees.
- [Rooted in research](https://wagrains.org/articles/rooted-in-research/) - WSU researchers are digging deeper into the genetics of drought tolerance in wheat.
- [Ag leadership corner](https://wagrains.org/articles/ag-leadership-corner-2/) - PNWA's Neil Maunu sits down with the WGC to discuss maintaining our region’s transportation systems and advancing the goals of Washington’s farmers.
- [As the tumbleweed turns](https://wagrains.org/articles/as-the-tumbleweed-turns/) - The biology and effective management strategies for Russian thistle in the Pacific Northwest.
- [Where did our wheat markets go?](https://wagrains.org/articles/where-did-our-wheat-markets-go/) - Wheat Life Magazine market analyst perspectives from a career in global wheat markets
- [New varieties provide herbicide options](https://wagrains.org/articles/new-varieties-provide-herbicide-options/) - Dr. Clark Neely, extension agronomist and lead for Cereal Variety Testing at Washington State University, presents a summary of the winter wheat variety trails.
- [Renewing the future of ag](https://wagrains.org/articles/renewing-the-future-of-ag/) - Academy provide students with hands-on exploration of STEM-related careers.
- [Legacy of excellence](https://wagrains.org/articles/legacy-of-excellence/) - Times may change, but the university's public wheat breeding program remains committed to the growers of today and tomorrow.
- [Job Announcement: Market Development Specialist](https://wagrains.org/articles/job-announcement-market-development-specialist/) - The Washington Grain Commission (WGC) is seeking a Market Development Specialist
- [Integrated approach needed](https://wagrains.org/articles/integrated-approach-needed/) - Integrated approach needed for Italian ryegrass management in wheat cropping systems.
- [Stripe rust is back for 2024 crop](https://wagrains.org/articles/stripe-rust-is-back-for-2024-crop/) - After low levels of stripe rust in the past three years, Dr. Xianming Chen gives his prediction, observation, and management perspectives of wheat stripe rust in the Pacific Northwest.
- [2024 quality rankings released](https://wagrains.org/articles/2024-quality-rankings-released/) - The Washington Grain Commission is pleased to provide the 2024 wheat quality rankings for the Pacific Northwest.
- [Part 3:
Where do we go from here?](https://wagrains.org/articles/part-3-where-do-we-go-from-here/) - Examining the common concerns for growers and the current research for low falling numbers.
- [Growing problem](https://wagrains.org/articles/growing-problem/) - Why the weed seedbank is significant to wheat production in the Pacific Northwest.
- [Transportation is essential](https://wagrains.org/articles/transportation-is-essential/) - Our transportation infrastructure is essential for the wheat industry. This quick update includes rail, river, and ocean freight.
- [Winter injury of wheat](https://wagrains.org/articles/winter-injury-of-wheat/) - The predicted increase of winter rain vs. snow could leave wheat plants more vulnerable.
- [Snail eradication efforts](https://wagrains.org/articles/snail-eradication-efforts/) - The WGC and WAWG support snail eradication efforts at the Port of Tacoma.
- [Putting royalties to work](https://wagrains.org/articles/putting-royalties-to-work/) - WSU wheat breeders are putting royalties to work for the future of Washington wheat.
- [Chumrau testifies at Congressional hearing](https://wagrains.org/articles/chumrau-testifies-at-congressional-hearing/) - WGC's CEO offered compelling testimony supporting the crucial infrastructure of dams and locks on the Columbia Snake River System.
- [What's new with barley](https://wagrains.org/articles/whats-new-with-barley/) - Dr. Clark Neely's WSU Extension spring barley variety trial summary
- [2023 spring variety testing](https://wagrains.org/articles/2023-spring-variety-testing/) - Results show bright future for new wheat lines
- [From elevators to export centers](https://wagrains.org/articles/from-elevators-to-export-centers/) - Part 2 of our series follows the management of low falling numbers throughout the ‘grain chain'
- [Fusarium crown rot is everywhere, persistent](https://wagrains.org/articles/fusarium-crown-rot-is-everywhere-persistent/) - Genetic resistance, tolerance will be best management tools
- [New commissioner, reappointments](https://wagrains.org/articles/new-commissioner-reappointments/) - Ben Adams has joined the WGC for District 4. Three additional commissioners have received reappointments through 2027.
- [The journey of Washington's wheat](https://wagrains.org/articles/the-journey-of-washingtons-wheat/) - PNW Wheat Export Tour & Wheat Quality Workshop shows how the food we grow gets to market, and why quality matters.
- [Boosting wheat production with AI](https://wagrains.org/articles/boosting-wheat-production-with-ai/) - Artificial intelligence comes to every corner of our life. This technology has applications in field management, grain inspection, and more.
- [A falling numbers fact-finding mission](https://wagrains.org/articles/a-falling-numbers-fact-finding-mission/) - Weather patterns and susceptible varieties are behind the falling numbers phenomenon. But what else can help manage this problem?
- [Breeding resilient malt barley](https://wagrains.org/articles/breeding-resilient-malt-barley/) - The Washington State University research program aims for varieties that can withstand environmental instability.
- [Solid investment](https://wagrains.org/articles/solid-investment/) - Grower-funded Plant Growth Facility is paid off, paying forward.
- [Working together for salmon recovery](https://wagrains.org/articles/working-together-for-salmon-recovery/) - Northwest RiverPartners' statement on salmon reintroduction in the upper Columbia River Basin
- [Numbers count when seeding](https://wagrains.org/articles/numbers-count-when-seeding/) - Trials suggest both rate and seed size impact winter wheat stand establishment and yield.
- [Spicing up spring wheat](https://wagrains.org/articles/spicing-up-spring-wheat/) - Pest and weed control, soil degradation, climate and quality all on the radar for Dr. Pumphrey's wheat research at Washington State University.
- [Barley trade trip to Mexico](https://wagrains.org/articles/barley-trade-trip-to-mexico/) - Four major barley states were represented in a recent mission to Mexico with the U.S. Grains Council
- [Federal grant for PCC short line](https://wagrains.org/articles/federal-grant-for-pcc-short-line/) - Wheat growers applaud support of federal CRISI grant to WSDOT
- [Certifiably the best](https://wagrains.org/articles/certifiably-the-best/) - Washington State's seed system equals high quality, high purity product
- [Predicting performance](https://wagrains.org/articles/predicting-performance/) - Genomic selection helps weed out unsuitable varieties early in the wheat breeding process.
- [Alison Thompson returns](https://wagrains.org/articles/elementor-6155/) - New hire at USDA-ARS in Pullman joins the effort to confront low falling numbers.
- [Falling number research receives FFAR grant](https://wagrains.org/articles/falling-number-research-receives-ffar-grant/) - The WSU research team working on a new falling number test recently received $835,000 over three years from the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) that matches funds from industry and other sources, including the WGC.
- [U.S. Food for Peace](https://wagrains.org/articles/u-s-food-for-peace/) - The Washington Grain Commission and the Washington Association of Wheat Growers raise awareness of the importance of maintaining American agricultural diplomacy around the world.
- [Outsmarting cheatgrass](https://wagrains.org/articles/outsmarting-cheatgrass/) - This troublesome weed has some tricks up its sleeve. WSU Postdoctoral Research Associate Samuel Revolinski discusses the challenges of reducing the migration of cheatgrass seeds.
- [Reaching a new landmark](https://wagrains.org/articles/reaching-a-new-landmark/) - Researchers at WSU and the USDA-ARS discuss the development of a new diagnostic test to manage low falling numbers post-harvest.
- [New varieties mean better options for growers](https://wagrains.org/articles/new-varieties-mean-better-options-for-g/) - Cereal Variety Testing Lead Clark Neely reviews the 2022 WSU winter wheat variety trials.
- [A dynamic duo settles in](https://wagrains.org/articles/a-dynamic-duo-settles-in/) - Oregon transplant tapped to lead the WSU Lind Dryland Research Station
- [2022 spring variety trial results](https://wagrains.org/articles/2022-spring-variety-trial-results/) - Cereal Variety Testing Lead Clark Neely reviews the 2022 WSU spring wheat variety trials.
- [2023 quality rankings](https://wagrains.org/articles/elementor-6136/) - Testing for six components keeps Pacific Northwest wheat in top form. The 2023 wheat variety rankings are now available.
- [A tribute to Mark Fowler](https://wagrains.org/articles/elementor-6164/) - The Washington Grain Commission adds its sincere condolences to those of the entire U.S. wheat industry in response to the news of the sudden passing of Mark Fowler in February.
- [Control of stripe rust of wheat, barley](https://wagrains.org/articles/elementor-6178/) - Stripe rust is one of the most destructive diseases of wheat and barley. Dr. Chen provides an annual forecast of disease pressure for the 2023 growing season.
- [Management is more of a marathon](https://wagrains.org/articles/management-is-more-of-a-marathon/) - Troublesome weed dating from the dinosaurs finds a home in no-till fields.
- [Advancing scientific knowledge](https://wagrains.org/articles/advancing-scientific-knowledge/) - WGC Commissioner Mike Carstensen participates in National Wheat Improvement Committee D.C. Fly-in.
- [Managing herbicide-resistant weeds](https://wagrains.org/articles/managing-herbicide-resistant-weeds/) - Infographic: Best Management Practices (BMPs) are critical to the long-term sustainability of wheat production in the PNW.
- [Ag leadership corner](https://wagrains.org/articles/ag-leadership-corner/) - Two Washington ag leaders discuss connecting the dots for future success in agriculture.
- [Farmer feedback](https://wagrains.org/articles/farmer-feedback/) - Survey reveals benefits, challenges of soil health management in dryland wheat.
- [Proposed bill would protect dams](https://wagrains.org/articles/proposed-bill-would-protect-dams/) - Wheat growers support the Northwest Energy Security Act.
- [Drink Washington Beer](https://wagrains.org/articles/drink-washington-beer/) - The Washington Grain Commission visited with over 60 brewers to find the answer to the question: Where do you get your malt?
- [Surviving, thriving through winter](https://wagrains.org/articles/surviving-thriving-through-winter/) - Small evolutionary changes allowed winter wheat to survive freezing temperatures.
- [A teacher’s perspective](https://wagrains.org/articles/a-teachers-perspective/) - Wheat Week program is taught in over 1,000 classrooms every year.
- [Investments in USDA priorities](https://wagrains.org/articles/investments-in-usda-priorities/) - Bill boosts Herbicide Resistance Initiative, river transportation.
- [Investments in USDA for barley](https://wagrains.org/articles/investments-in-usda-for-barley/) - Barley research gets additional $1 million from 2023 federal omnibus spending bill.
- [Finding foodprint harmony](https://wagrains.org/articles/finding-foodprint-harmony/) - How can industry reconcile with less carbon and more plant-based foods and food variety?
- [WSU Research Review is Feb. 15](https://wagrains.org/articles/wsu-research-review-is-feb-15/) - Washington wheat and barley producers are invited to participate.
- [2022 spring barley trial results](https://wagrains.org/articles/2022-spring-barley-trial-results/) - WSU spring barley trails include promising new varieties to watch.
- [More friend than foe](https://wagrains.org/articles/more-friend-than-foe/) - Study finds no relationship between high intake of refined grain foods, risk of cardiovascular disease.
- [Breeding the best](https://wagrains.org/articles/breeding-the-best/) - Washington State University barley program sees the future in malting barley.
- [Profile: Aaron Esser](https://wagrains.org/articles/profile-aaron-esser/) - Researcher centers work on maintaining, improving soil health. Meet Aaron Esser, WSU Cooperative Extension Agent, Adams County Director.
- [Maintaining navigational access](https://wagrains.org/articles/maintaining-navigational-access/) - A coalition of U.S. farm and food industry groups support the proposed legislation that maintains navigational access to the Lower Snake River dams.
- [Rising to the challenge of falling numbers](https://wagrains.org/articles/rising-to-the-challenge-of-falling-numbers/) - Quicker testing, predictive modeling, and breeding are all key to helping industry solve the falling numbers mystery.
- [Alexis Taylor confirmed](https://wagrains.org/articles/alexis-taylor-confirmed/) - Pacific Northwest ag leader Alexis Taylor was confirmed as the USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agriculture Affairs.
- [Meet Casey](https://wagrains.org/articles/meet-casey/) - Grain commission begins new chapter with first female chief executive.
- [Plotting an easier way to gather grain](https://wagrains.org/articles/plotting-an-easier-way-to-gather-grain/) - Harvest time at Spillman Farm will be easier with grower gift of plot combines. The Washington State Grain Commission has provided WSU with two combines worth nearly $500,000.
- [Making staples more like superfoods](https://wagrains.org/articles/making-staples-more-like-superfoods/) - Biofortification of wheat could help address the challenge of malnutrition around the world.
- [Wheat growers support increased funding to FAS](https://wagrains.org/articles/wheat-growers-applaud-introduction-of-smart-act/) - Wheat growers support the proposed SMART Act to double investments in agricultural export programs.
- [Clearing the deck](https://wagrains.org/articles/clearing-the-deck/) - Clearfield spring wheat varieties open weed control, rotation options
- [Drink Local](https://wagrains.org/articles/drink-local/) - Craft brewers in Washington put focus on locally grown ingredients.
- [Squires reflects on decades of service](https://wagrains.org/articles/squires-reflects-on-decades-of-service/) - Washington Grain Commission CEO to retire after 30 years of service to the wheat and barley industry.
- [Wheat growers support increased funding to FAS](https://wagrains.org/articles/wheat-growers-support-increased-funding-to-fas/) - Doubling the funding for agricultural export market development would generate an additional $44.4 billion in U.S. agricultural exports over the 2024 to 2029 time period.
- [A special night of recognition](https://wagrains.org/articles/a-special-night-of-recognition/) - The Washington Grain Commission and others recognize the contributions of Glen Squires.
- [UW faculty field tour](https://wagrains.org/articles/uw-faculty-field-tour/) - Staff visits state senator's Ritzville farm to learn about the Washington wheat industry.
- [Sensors, drones and the internet of things](https://wagrains.org/articles/sensors-drones-and-the-internet-of-things/) - What does IOT innovations mean for plant breeding? WSU wheat geneticist Arron Carter looks at how far we've come and where we are going.
- [Dams are essential to wheat farmers](https://wagrains.org/articles/dams-are-essential-to-wheat-farmers/) - WAWG filed public comments in response to the Draft Lower Snake River Dams (LSRD) Benefit Replacement Report published on June 9.
- [Wheat farmers maintain strong opposition to dam breaching](https://wagrains.org/articles/wheat-farmers-maintain-strong-opposition-to-dam-breaching/) - WAWG response to the findings of the final Lower Snake River Dams (LSRD) Benefit Replacement Report and the recommendations from Senator Patty Murray and Governor Jay Inslee.
- [Harvest season brings harvest stress](https://wagrains.org/articles/harvest-season-brings-harvest-stress/) - Wheat Life Magazine guest author Alyssa Wade provides tips for farmers to stay healthy this harvest season.
- [Controlling rush skeletonweed in fallow](https://wagrains.org/articles/controlling-rush-skeletonweed-in-fallow/) - Moisture loss to weeds causes delayed or reduced seed emergence and wheat stand establishment.
- [2022 Annual Report](https://wagrains.org/articles/2022-annual-report/) - The Washington Grain Commission 2022 Annual Report is now available online and in print.
- [Caucus members tour PNW energy facilities](https://wagrains.org/articles/caucus-members-tour-pnw-energy-facilities/) - During a tour through Eastern Washington, members of the Congressional Western Caucus learned about the lower Snake River dams
- [Posted to Pullman](https://wagrains.org/articles/posted-to-pullman/) - New hires will increase USDA-ARS research unit’s problem-solving capacity
- [Group effort needed](https://wagrains.org/articles/group-effort-needed/) - Researchers make case for viewing herbicide susceptibility as a common-pool resource
- [Growers issue statements on dam breaching](https://wagrains.org/articles/statements-on-dam-breaching/) - WAWG president and executive director provide their perspectives on a recent report regarding the dams on the lower Snake River.
- [WGC statement on dam study](https://wagrains.org/articles/wgc-statement-on-dam-study/) - The Washington Grain Commission (WGC), along with fellow agricultural groups, utilities and others expressed serious concerns about the Murray/Inslee report, which left out or significantly undervalued costs and even acknowledged that many costs are not available.
- [WGC announces upcoming leadership transition](https://wagrains.org/articles/ceo-transition-2022/) - Glen Squires, CEO of the Washington Grain Commission (WGC), has announced he will retire on November 1. The WGC is pleased to announce that Casey Chumrau will be its new CEO and will begin mid-September.
- [Autophagy helps stress resiliency](https://wagrains.org/articles/autophagy-helps-stress-resiliency/) - Understanding the cell biology behind heat and drought tolerance in plants helps breeders home in on increasing the resiliency of PNW wheat and barley.
- [Tough year sorts 2021 ratings](https://wagrains.org/articles/2021-winter-wheat-variety-trials/) - Cereal Variety Testing Lead Clark Neely reviews the 2021 WSU Extension soft white winter wheat variety trials.
- [Stripe rust report](https://wagrains.org/articles/stripe-rust-report/) - Keys to controlling stripe rust in the PNW are planting resistant varieties, spraying fungicides as needed.
- [Quality is king in PNW](https://wagrains.org/articles/quality-is-king-in-pnw/) - Rankings help producers increase desirability of Washington wheat
- [Watch for stripe rust with smartphones](https://wagrains.org/articles/watch-for-stripe-rust-with-smartphones/) - Next time when you bring your smartphone to your fields, you may use it to detect stripe rust, especially during the disease’s early stages when rust is not easy to spot.
- [Essential work](https://wagrains.org/articles/essential-work/) - Grain growers support local food security during COVID-19.
- [Elevating agriculture's voice](https://wagrains.org/articles/elevating-the-ag-voice/) - While the issues surrounding agriculture seem to never end, it is encouraging to find instances where our voice is heard, and decision-makers implement policy to address our issues.
- [Password, please](https://wagrains.org/articles/password-please/) - A spike in ransomware attacks underscores need for cybercrime awareness in Washington agriculture.
- [The next wave in agricultural innovation](https://wagrains.org/articles/the-next-wave-in-ag-innovation/) - Harnessing the power of big data to help farmers find solutions is an increasing driver for adoption of precision farming practices.
- [2021 takes its toll on Washington barley yields](https://wagrains.org/articles/2021-takes-its-toll-on-washington-barley-yields/) - Once again, Washington saw another dip in planted barley acres in 2021. The drought reduced average yield by an astounding 58 bushels and the Washington State University spring barley variety trials saw very similar trends in 2021.
- [Making the best of a bad year](https://wagrains.org/articles/making-the-best-of-a-bad-year/) - With yields and test weights down across the board, it is not an understatement to say that 2021 was a challenging year for wheat production across Washington state due to the drought.
- [Talking about (river) transportation](https://wagrains.org/articles/talking-about-river-transportation/) - WGC’s Glen Squires talks with PNWA’s Kristin Meira on the future of our rivers.
- [Soil health in dryland agriculture](https://wagrains.org/articles/soil-health-in-dryland-agriculture/) - This WSDA soil health scientist's goal is to help growers apply farming practices that support multiple soil functions and minimize degradation.
- [2022 PNW Crop Tour Schedule](https://wagrains.org/articles/2022-field-days/) - The WSU Variety Testing Program has begun its 2022 PNW Crop Tour Schedule.
- [Join our team!](https://wagrains.org/articles/join-our-team/) - Join our team! The Washington Grain Commission is looking for a dynamic career-oriented individual to be our next Program Director. This position will support the Commission's implementation of market promotion, research and education programs on behalf of small grain farmers in Washington state.
- [The origins of club wheat](https://wagrains.org/articles/the-origins-of-club-wheat/) - Not quite a Marvel prequel, but the evolution of club wheat is still important to modern-day breeding programs.
- [Wheat education grows in pandemic-impacted classrooms](https://wagrains.org/articles/wheat-education-grows-in-pandemic/) - Wheat Week, a 4th and 5th grade hands-on science program using wheat as the teaching tool, is entering its 15th year in Washington state. Who would have thought the COVID-19 pandemic would have allowed the program to expand?
- [I wish you were beer](https://wagrains.org/articles/wish-you-were-beer/) - New WSU malt quality lab key to turning barley production from feed to food varieties.
- [Cookie or biscuit, it’s all delicious](https://wagrains.org/articles/cookie-or-biscuit/) - PNW-supported cracker production line fulfills its promise at the Wheat Marketing Center.
- [USDA-WSU to replace aging hall](https://wagrains.org/articles/usda-wsu-to-replace-aging-hall/) - It’s the end of an era for the crop and soil sciences research building, which opened in 1961. Built during the Eisenhower Administration, this four-story, 195,000-square-foot building has served ably, and now the next chapter calls for Johnson Hall to come down.
- [Maintaining momentum through transition](https://wagrains.org/articles/momentum-thru-transition/) - The year 2021 has been a year of significant transition, and nowhere is that truer than at Washington State University. Interim Dean Rich Koenig provides an update on the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences.
- [Promoting the best grains](https://wagrains.org/articles/promoting-the-best-grains/) - Grain commission works to maintain demand for Washington grains in good and bad years.
- [Roger that!](https://wagrains.org/articles/roger-that/) - This pending club wheat variety offers Hessian fly resistance, and a hat tip to a valued advisor.
- [Weeds beware](https://wagrains.org/articles/weeds-beware/) - The sensor sprayer revolution is upon us as systems continue to improve.
- [Grain commissioners receive reappointment](https://wagrains.org/articles/grain-commissioners-receive-reappointment/) - Six WGC board commissioners received reappointment letters from the WSDA Director Derek Sandison in November.
- [Vietnam to eliminate U.S. wheat import tariff](https://wagrains.org/articles/vietnam-to-eliminate-u-s-wheat-import-tariff/) - Vietnam’s government will eliminate a 3 percent tariff on U.S. wheat imports effective December 30, 2021. Vietnam imports an average of about 4 million metric tons of wheat per year.
- [Testing the variety weather](https://wagrains.org/articles/testing-the-variety-weather/) - Washington growers and researchers to benefit from placement of weather stations near field trials.
- [Reflecting on Phase One](https://wagrains.org/articles/reflecting-on-phase-one/) - WSU's ag economist reflects on how the Phase One trade deal and world feed grain markets have helped increase wheat sales to China. Republished from June 2021 Wheat Life Magazine.
- [Nontariff barriers' real world impacts](https://wagrains.org/articles/nontariff-barriers-real-world-impacts/) - Imported wheat is often subjected to additional scrutiny and restrictions. So, what are nontariff trade barriers?
- [The final frontier](https://wagrains.org/articles/final-frontier/) - This WSU lab looks at roots systems to understand stress tolerance and improve wheat varieties.
- [Eyes in the sky](https://wagrains.org/articles/eyes-in-the-sky/) - Big changes for wheat breeding as new technologies develop: The use of drones and sensors (known as phenomics) have become a new tool used in many plant breeding programs.
- [Have app, will travel](https://wagrains.org/articles/have-app-will-travel/) - By Clark Neely For Washington growers considering future wheat variety options, there’s now an app for that. It’s the WSU Variety Testing Program’s mobile Cereal Variety Selection Tool and it’s available free at your favorite app store. Like the desktop version of the app, growers can utilize the tool to filter and sort wheat and
- [USDA-ARS scientist explores causes of low falling numbers](https://wagrains.org/articles/scientist-explores-low-falling-numbers/) - An irony of Ashley Cannon’s career is that her goal of becoming an astronaut returned her to earth to investigate some of the most basic mechanisms of plant biochemistry.
- [Barley begins its Washington comeback](https://wagrains.org/articles/barley-begins-washington-comeback/) - Breeding program to focus on developing varieties for malting industry.
- [It’s getting better all the time](https://wagrains.org/articles/getting-better-all-the-time/) - WSU winter wheat breeder Dr. Arron Carter reflects on his time leading the breeding program and looks toward beginning his next decade of working with farmers to solve problems.
- [Defining Soft White Wheat's Competitive Advantage](https://wagrains.org/articles/defining-soft-white-wheats-competitive-advantage/) - Soft white (SW) wheat is the fourth largest class of wheat grown in the United States with an annual average production over the last five years of 6.32 million metric tons (MMT), or about 232 million bushels. Although SW is the fourth largest class measured by production, it is the third largest if measured by exports
- [Washington Small Grains - Inspection and Export](https://wagrains.org/articles/wa-small-grains-inspection-and-export/) - Grain Inspectors with the United States Department of Agriculture and the Washington State Department of Agriculture ensure grain that is exported meets our customers needs for quality and consistency.
- [Washington Small Grains - Transportation](https://wagrains.org/articles/wa-small-grains-transportation/) - A robust transportation network affords Washington small grain farmers the ability to move grain to export facilities efficiently and competitively by rail and along the Snake/Columbia Rivers.
- [Washington Small Grains - Seeding](https://wagrains.org/articles/wa-small-grains-seeding/) - World class research provides world class seeds for Washington wheat and barley farmers. Combined with state of the art technology and farming practices creates the world standard for farming small grains.
- [Washington Small Grains - Harvest](https://wagrains.org/articles/wa-small-grains-harvest/) - With some of the world's most unique landscape, Washington wheat and barley farmers utilize some of the most advanced technology to harvest some of the country's most fertile land for wheat. Take a look at the combines and other farm equipment while marveling at Washington's beautiful landscape.
- [Washington Small Grains - Research and Breeding](https://wagrains.org/articles/wa-small-grains-research-breeding/) - Take a closer look into the research and breeding programs that make Washington's wheat and barley a cut above.
- [Farmers can access aid with natural disaster designation](https://wagrains.org/articles/usda-drought-declaration/) - Details on the USDA drought designation for 14 Washington counties from the Washington Association of Wheat Growers.
- [U.S. Wheat-Stories from the Wheat Farm](https://wagrains.org/articles/u-s-wheat-stories-from-the-wheat-farm/) - Technology in the form of virtual meetings, have been a lifesaver at the Washington Grain Commission during the pandemic. But as a re-placement for face-to-face interactions with our overseas customers, it’s a pale substitute. We have done our best to pivot during the quarantine, with our office and our national export organization, U.S. Wheat Associates,
- [PNWA reacts to Simpson proposal to breach dams](https://wagrains.org/articles/pnwa-reacts-to-simpson-proposal-to-breach-dams/) - PACIFIC NORTHWEST WATERWAYS ASSOCIATION FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Scott Clemans, PNWA Communications Director503-234-8551 (office) / 360-980-2650 (mobile) / scott.clemans@pnwa.net PNWA reacts to Simpson proposal to breach dams, increase regional carbon emissions PORTLAND, Ore. – The Pacific Northwest Waterways Association has reviewed a plan proposed by Rep. Mike Simpson (R, ID-2) to establish a $32 billion “Columbia
- [Lower Snake River Dams Targeted Again](https://wagrains.org/articles/lower-snake-river-dams-targeted-again/) - NEWS RELEASE A Congressman plans to breach dams Lower Snake River Dams targeted again -increasing carbon with end to navigation and removing clean power (February 4, 2021, Spokane, WA) A southern Idaho Congressman who has more than a dozen dams within his state without fish passage has floated a plan to breach the four lower
- [Dams already a model of fish recovery success](https://wagrains.org/articles/dams-already-a-model-of-fish-recovery-success/) - By Joe Bippert After years of study and millions of dollars spent, a draft federal environment impact statement (EIS) on hydroelectric dam operations in the Columbia Basin is being debated. Public comments addressing the draft will be received until April 13. The latest iteration is the sixth time federal agencies have attempted to come up
- [Different but similar](https://wagrains.org/articles/different-but-similar/) - Australia’s early weed resistance informs PNW path forward By Ian Burke and Arron Carter We’re in a very different world now from the one that five of us left last February for a two weeks fact finding tour of Australia to investigate that country’s response to weed resistance and weed management. Besides ourselves, the group
- [Resistant weed strategies from Down Under](https://wagrains.org/articles/resistant-weed-strategies-from-down-under/) - By Drew Lyon I’ve spent a good deal of my time in recent years working on herbicide resistance, observing in real time as Eastern Washington wheat growers lose effective herbicides as resistance in weeds, including Italian ryegrass and downy brome, grows. The phenomenon is not limited to this region. The Midwest is well ahead of
- [New barley breeder touts malt barley](https://wagrains.org/articles/new-barley-breeder-touts-malt-barley/) - By Bob Brueggeman Barley was an important small grain cereal crop grown on large acreage in Washington State until about a decade ago. The grain back then was targeted for domestic and overseas feed markets, hence the barley breeding program at Washington State University has historically been focused on high yielding feed varieties. As advanced
- [Breeders soak up oversea experiences](https://wagrains.org/articles/breeders-soak-up-oversea-experiences/) - Breeders soak up oversea experiences By Mike Pumphrey One of the best things about working in agriculture is seeing the fruits (or seeds) of my labor turn into products people enjoy and rely on for nutrition. Watching people eat foods baked from wheat that I’ve had a hand in creating gives me enormous satisfaction. And
- [Making Connections When Travel is Impossible](https://wagrains.org/articles/making-connections-when-travel-is-impossible/)
- [A World Where the U.S. and Russia Can Play](https://wagrains.org/articles/a-world-where-the-u-s-and-russia-can-play/) - Vince Peterson may be the organization’s president and Mark Fowler, it’s vice president of overseas operations, but when it comes to the voice of U.S. Wheat Associates, that would be Steve Jon Mercer, a veteran of...
- [Episode 99: Howard Nelson’s Hunt: Seeking the Elusive Eastern Washington Alternative Crop](https://wagrains.org/podcast/episode-99-howard-nelsons-hunt-seeking-the-elusive-eastern-washington-alternative-crop/) - Howard Nelson recently retired from evaluating alternative crops for HighLine Grain, but episode 99 remains on the job! Released Nov. 13, 2018, the podcast delves into Nelson’s career looking for the perfect rotational fit with wheat. One of the most listened to episodes in the Wheat All About It! archive, episode 99 deserves its selection as the inaugural Bonus episode.
- [Ep. 150 Ranking the Wheat Industries Challenges by Glen Squires](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-150-ranking-the-wheat-industries-challenges-by-glen-squires/) - There’s plenty of challenges to choose from, but Squires limits himself to discussing several that cause him sleepless nights. No. 1 on his list is the second discovery of genetically engineered wheat plants in Washington State last spring.
- [Molecular Technology is Changing the Breeding Game](https://wagrains.org/articles/molecular-technology-is-changing-the-breeding-game/) - Molecular technology has been rapidly changing in the past 20 years, making my job as Washington State University’s winter wheat breeder more complicated, and more streamlined simultaneously...
- [Trade Teams Integral to Selling PNW Wheat](https://wagrains.org/articles/trade-teams-integral-to-selling-pnw-wheat/) - One of the most important activities the Washington Grain Commission (WGC) undertakes over the course of a year is hosting trade teams. More funding may be devoted to other line items in the budget, but the amount of time WGC staff and commissioners devote to planning, hosting and summarizing trade team visits, eclipses all other
- [Ep. 163 The Episodes About The Biggest Threat to PNW Production Agriculture](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-163-the-episodes-about-the-biggest-threat-to-pnw-production-agriculture/) - So many challenges are facing Pacific Northwest wheat farmers nowadays that it’s difficult to choose which one comes first on the list. According to one group of university researchers, however, herbicide weed resistance is in the pole position.
- [Soil Health Assessment: What Is It Good For?](https://wagrains.org/articles/soil-health-assessment-what-is-it-good-for/) - As defined by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, soil health is “the continued capacity of soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals, and humans.” The term first appeared in the literature in 1971 and during the past 40 years has gained world-wide attention. In the past six years, interest in
- [The Hessian Flies Are Coming! What Are Researchers Doing About It?](https://wagrains.org/articles/the-hessian-flies-are-coming-what-are-researchers-doing-about-it/) - Since starting at Washington State University in 2010, I’ve seen Hessian fly infestations that caused significant losses in both production fields and test plots. The first time I wrote about Hessian flies in Wheat Life, was in April 2013 due to concern at that time. Fast forward six years. Now, when I visit spring wheat
- [Fusarium Crown Rot is Prevalent, Persistent & Pernicious](https://wagrains.org/articles/fusarium-crown-rot-is-prevalent-persistent-pernicious/) - Fusarium crown rot of wheat is probably the most widespread of all root and crown diseases in the PNW. It is found in all precipitation zones and cropping systems–from conventional to no-till. It causes an...
- [Ep. 151 Coming to America: From Peasant to Professor, Zhiwu Zhangs Journey to WSU](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-151-coming-to-america-from-peasant-to-professor-zhiwu-zhangs-journey-to-wsu/) - Hunger, no running water and hard manual labor are among Zhiwu Zhang’s memories of growing up in China before the country opened to the world. Now, an associate professor at Washington State University and a U.S. citizen, Zhang describes his upbringing in episode 151.
- [Ep. 152 Trista Crossley Is Having The Time Of Her Wheat Life](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-152-trista-crossley-is-having-the-time-of-her-wheat-life/) - Much of the work of ensuring Pacific Northwest wheat farmers are successful happens behind the scenes by people who are rarely recognized for their contributions.
- [Ep. 153 When Trade Teams Come Calling Joe Bippert Answers](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-153-when-trade-teams-come-calling-joe-bippert-answers/) - Once a relative backwater for hosting trade teams, Eastern Washington has become a must visit destination for wheat buyers from around the world who want to learn more about the grain they are receiving, the farmers who grow it and the infrastructure that transports it.
- [Ep. 154 Gut Check: How Bread Boosts the Microbiome](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-154-gut-check/) - The gut microbiome may well be the last frontier of nutrition science and lucky for wheat farmers, bread and other wheat-based products are among the perfect foods to feed the fantastic community of micro organisms that exist there.
- [Ep. 155 Leadership Learning the Ag Forestry Way](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-155-leadership-learning-the-ag-forestry-way/) - Life changing experiences come in all shapes and sizes, and for many of the more than a thousand people who have graduated from the Washington Ag Forestry Leadership Program, participation represents a crucial milepost in their lives.
- [Ep. 158 KXLY's Mark Petersons Wetter and Warmer Than Normal Forecast](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-158-kxlys-mark-petersons-wetter-and-warmer-than-normal-forecast/) - Warm air holds more moisture than cool air, and since forecasters are predicting a warmer than normal season ahead, it makes sense it will be wetter too.
- [Ep. 159 Jim Jesernig Eyes the 2020 Washington Legislature with 20/20 Vision](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-159-jim-jesernig-eyes-the-2020-washington-legislature-with-20-20-vision/) - The Washington Legislature, which begins its 2020 session on January 13, comes under the eye of Jim Jesernig, attorney, former legislator, former director of the Washington State Department of Agriculture and current lobbyist for the Washington Grain Commission.
- [Ep. 160 Name That Wheat Industry Challenge!](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-160-name-that-wheat-industry-challenge/) - It is said that challenges contains within them the seeds of opportunity and growth, but what exactly are the primary challenges facing the Pacific Northwest wheat industry?
- [Ep. 161 The Old World Order Is Dead Long Live The New World Order](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-161-the-old-world-order-is-dead-long-live-the-new-world-order/) - The audience loved him so much the first time he spoke at the Tri State Grain Growers Convention several years ago, that organizers invited author and global strategist Peter Zeihan back a second time. He did not disappoint.
- [Ep. 162 The Old World Order Is Dead Long Live The New World Order Part 2](https://wagrains.org/podcast/ep-162-the-old-world-order-is-dead-long-live-the-new-world-order-part-2/) - Peter Zeihan, who spoke at the 2019 Tri State Grain Growers Convention in November, is like your smart, hip uncle, telling you things about the world that can leave you elated one minute and scared the next.
- [RiverFest Keeps Flowing!](https://wagrains.org/articles/riverfest-keeps-flowing/) - The second RiverFest held in Columbia Park on the shore of the Columbia River on September 7, demonstrated that the first event was no fluke. More people, more exhibits, more food vendors and more entertainment meant more opportunities for educating families about the benefits of the Lower Snake River dams. The Washington Grain Commission (WGC)
- [Are the Insects Leaving Us?](https://wagrains.org/articles/are-the-insects-leaving-us/) - “The Little Things That Run the World” (insects, that is) was the intriguing title of an address by the famed biologist E. O. Wilson at the 1987 opening of the invertebrate exhibit at the National Zoological Park, in Washington D.C. Of course, no one group of organisms ‘runs’ the complex ecosystems of Earth. Still, insects
- [Making the Most of Enhanced Decision Making](https://wagrains.org/articles/making-the-most-of-enhanced-decision-making/) - A best management practice results in maximum yield balanced against minimum inputs, a small environmental footprint and overall production system sustainability. But knowing which management decisions are best is complicated. Recent technological advances, however, are making it easier as efficient and inexpensive on-farm research and data collection are helping farmers make the most of superior
- [Washington GrainCommission Board Meeting](https://wagrains.org/events/washington-graincommission-board-meeting/) - November 13th 7:30 to 11:30AM Grand Hotel Spokane, WA
- [Tri-State Convention](https://wagrains.org/events/tri-state-convention/) - November 13th-15th Grand Hotel Spokane, WA
- [Portland Tour](https://wagrains.org/events/portland-tour/) - December 3rd-5th Portland, OR
## Pages
- [Home](https://wagrains.org/) - THE BEST GRAIN IS WASHINGTON GRAINThe first state to develop a Preferred Wheat Variety Brochure ranking milling and baking performancePROVIDING THE WORLD’S FINEST WHEAT & BARLEYNon-GMO crops for today’s discerning consumers & companiesTHE BEST GRAIN IS WASHINGTON GRAINThe first state to develop a Preferred Wheat Variety Brochure ranking milling and baking performancePROVIDING THE WORLD’S FINEST
- [WGC Staff](https://wagrains.org/wgc-staff/) - Casey Chumrau Chief Executive Officer Sarah Marquez Manager of Communication Jake Liening Market Development Specialist Sheila McCrea Finance & Administrative Specialist Parker Dawson Administrative Systems Specialist Shari McCarthy Receptionist &Accounts Specialist
- [Events](https://wagrains.org/events/) - Events If you would like to be placed on the email list to receive notifications regarding public meetings, please contact our office at wgc@wagrains.org. November 2025 WGC Board Meeting Date: Thursday, November 20Time: 9:00 a.m.Location: 2702 W Sunset Blvd, Spokane, WAContact WGC at wgc@wagrains.org for access to the virtual meeting.
- [Meeting Minutes](https://wagrains.org/meeting-minutes/) - Public meeting minutes Washington Grain Commission public meeting documents will be posted here once they have been finalized and approved by the board. For meeting minutes prior to 2024, please contact wgc@wagrains.org Regular board meetings 2025 Sept 23-24 Agenda | Approved minutes May 15-16 Agenda | Approved minutes March 26 Agenda | Approved minutes Jan.
- [Wheat](https://wagrains.org/wheat/) - Types of Wheat Where Wheat Grows Production, Quality & Exports History of Wheat Facts About Wheat Types of Washington Wheat Washington grows 4 of the 6 U.S. wheat classes – in addition to Club Wheat (a Soft White Wheat subclass). When milled into flour, each class offers unique quality and texture characteristics – perfect for
- [WGC Budget](https://wagrains.org/wgc-budget/) - Washington Grain Commission FY 2025/26 Budget: $8.36 million Approved at our May 2025 board meeting, the Washington Grain Commission’s FY 2025/26 budget of $8.36 million reflects a 14.7% increase over our previous year’s budget of $7.29 million. Notable increases include an 11% rise in market development funding and a 39% boost in education. Research continues
- [WGC Commissioners](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/) - MEET YOUR COMMISSIONERS Click below to view detailed information about each of our commissioners. Mike Carstensen District 1 Ben Barstow District 2 Brit Ausman District 3 Ben Adams District 4 Nicole Berg District 5 Art Schultheis District 6 Kevin Klein District 7 Ty Jessup Wheat IndustryRepresentative Vacant Wheat IndustryRepresentative Scott Steinbacher Washington State Dept. of
- [Public Records Policy](https://wagrains.org/public-records-policy/) - The purpose The purpose of this chapter is to ensure compliance by the Washington Gain Commission with chapter 42.56 RCW, the Public Records Act. Some Washington Grain Commission records are readily available without the need for a formal public records request. Before submitting a request, we encourage you to explore our website or contact our
- [Publications](https://wagrains.org/publications/) - PUBLICATIONS Grower Management Publications Grower Management Publications have been produced or developed for wheat and barley growers to use when making production and management decisions on your farm. Washington Wheat Facts Hechos del trigo en español 2025 Preferred Varieties Brochure 2024 WSCIA Certified Seed Buying Guide 2024 Wheat Variety Acres Estimate Managing Herbicide Resistant Weeds
- [Wheat Quality](https://wagrains.org/wheat-quality/) - ENSURING You Get the Best Quality Wheat More than 20 years ago, Washington became the first state to compile a Preferred Wheat Variety brochure, enshrining end-use quality as a byword of Eastern Washington wheat production. Each year, the brochure lists available varieties by their quality attributes based primarily on their milling and baking functionality. Varieties
- [Ben Barstow](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/ben-barstow/) - Ben Barstow Wheat District 2 (Whitman) Ben Barstow is the representative for Wheat District 2 of the Washington Grain Commission, representing Whitman County, the nation’s leading wheat producing county. Ben wanted to become a farmer, like his grandfather, since he was a teenager. He received a bachelor’s degree in plant protection from the University of
- [Mike Carstensen](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/mike-carstensen/) - Mike Carstensen District 1 Wheat (Spokane, Lincoln, Ferry, Stevens, Pend Oreille) Mike Carstensen is a Lincoln County wheat grower representing five counties in the northeast corner of the state and currently serves as WGC treasurer. Mike grew up in Almira and received his bachelor’s degree in business management and accounting from Whitworth University, and an MBA
- [Ty Jessup](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/ty-jessup/) - Ty Jessup Wheat Industry Representative Ty Jessup is one of two grain industry representatives and currently serves as WGC vice chairman. His goal on the WGC is to bring a commercial market perspective to Washington wheat growers. Ty was raised, worked, and educated in the agricultural community. He grew up on a cattle ranch near
- [Kevin Klein](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/kevin-klein/) - Kevin Klein District 7 Barley (Lincoln, Spokane, Ferry, Stevens, Pend Oreille, Adams, Grant, Douglas, Okanogan, Chelan, Kittitas) Kevin Klein is one of two barley representatives for the Washington Grain Commission and currently serves as WGC chairman. Kevin is a fifth-generation dryland wheat farmer who is currently living on the place where he grew up in
- [Nicole Berg](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/nicole-berg/) - Nicole Berg District 5 Wheat (Benton, Franklin, Kittitas, Klickitat, Yakima) Nicole Berg is a Paterson-area wheat grower representing five counties that make up the south-central region of the state. Nicole returned to the family farm near the town of Paterson in 1997. She received her degree in agriculture communications from Washington State University. Nicole serves
- [WGC Commissioners](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners-2/) - MEET YOUR COMMISSIONERS Click below to view detailed information about each of our commissioners. Mike Carstensen District 1 Ben Barstow District 2 Brit Ausman District 3 Ben Adams District 4 Nicole Berg District 5 Art Schultheis District 6 Kevin Klein District 7 Ty Jessup Wheat IndustryRepresentative Brian Liedl Wheat IndustryRepresentative Scott Steinbacher Washington State Dept.
- [Art Schultheis](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/art-schultheis/) - Art Schultheis District 6 Barley (Whitman, Asotin, Columbia, Garfield, Walla Walla, Benton, Franklin, Klickitat, Yakima) Art Schultheis is one of two barley representatives for the Washington Grain Commission. Art is a fifth-generation wheat farmer who is currently farming land homesteaded by his family in 1874. Art was featured in USW’s Stories of Stewardship video series
- [Algae Control](https://wagrains.org/algae-control/) - ALGAE CONTROL Barley Straw for Algae Control Keeping Ponds Clear Naturally How does barley straw work? The process is not well understood, but it is thought that as the straw decays in the presence of oxygen (and possibly sunlight), chemicals are released or produced that inhibit algae growth. It does not directly kill existing algae,
- [Barley](https://wagrains.org/barley/) - About Washington Barley Most barley grown in Washington is spring barley which is planted in early spring and harvested in late summer. In 2023, Washington barley growers harvested 84,000 acres of barley which had an average yield of 53 bushels per acre (1.15 metric tons per acre). Total barley production for 2023 was 4.45 million bushels
- [Ben Barstow](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/ben-barstow-3/) - Ben Barstow District 2 Wheat (Whitman) Ben Barstow is a Palouse-area wheat grower representing Whitman County, the nation’s leading wheat producing county. Ben wanted to become a farmer, like his grandfather, since he was a teenager. He received a bachelor’s degree in plant protection from the University of Idaho in 1980, and a master’s degree
- [Education](https://wagrains.org/education/) - Education Research and marketing are the oars of the WGC’s efforts, powering the industry forward with each stroke, but education is the boat that keeps farmers, landlords, industry allies, customers, scientists and government informed of the efforts underway. The education category takes about 10% of the WGC budget, including funds dedicated to Wheat Week the
- [Market Development](https://wagrains.org/market-development/) - Eastern Washington farmers grow some of the highest yielding wheat in the nation, but without markets, their efforts would come to naught. With access to the Pacific Rim and markets around the world, upwards of 90 percent of Eastern Washington wheat is exported. To ensure existing markets are serviced and new markets are explored, the
- [Research](https://wagrains.org/research/) - Research comprises 26 percent of the total 2024-2025 WGC budget. Scientists specializing in plant breeding and new variety development at Washington State University and the Agricultural Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture are the main focus for a large share of the WGC research funding. Variety development funds include the evaluation of new
- [Our Mission](https://wagrains.org/our-mission/) - 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. Washington State Provides the World’s Best Grains The WGC marketing objective is to: Strengthen existing markets and develop new markets for PNW small grains with the goal to maintain
- [Grower Services](https://wagrains.org/grower-services/) - WGC & WAWG The Washington Grain Commission is supported by many of the same farmers and landlords who are members of the Washington Association of Wheat Growers, a sister organization that is guided by members through grass-roots committees. WGC and WAWG work cooperatively to protect and enhance the industry and further its domestic-oriented goals.
- [News](https://wagrains.org/news/) - National Cotton Council Tour WGC’s Mary Palmer Sullivan joined farmers and association leaders from across the U.S. in West Texas for the National Cotton Council’s Multi-Commodity Education Program. The … Read More → What happened to barley? Discounts and the rise of corn and soybean acres put a dent in barley crop production. Read More
- [Assessments](https://wagrains.org/assessments/) - The Washington Grain Commission (WGC) collects wheat and barley assessment in accordance with RCW 15.115. Since established in 1958, the Commission has enjoyed consistent support from the grain elevator industry, which dutifully submits producer assessments. However, it’s important to note that the responsibility for assessment reporting and remittance doesn’t solely fall on the grain elevator
- [Our History](https://wagrains.org/our-history/) - Staff of the Hudson Bay Company, a Canadian fur trading business, planted the first wheat in what would become Washington State in the mid-1820s. Planted near Vancouver, Washington the wheat was intended for the company’s own use. In the late 1820s, the first wheat was planted on the Eastern side of the state near present
- [About WGC](https://wagrains.org/about-wgc/) - WGC History The Washington Grain Commission was created in 1958 as the Washington Wheat Commission by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) with the support of Eastern Washington farmers. The goal of the group, as explained by the director of the WSDA at the time was, “to do as a group what cannot be
- [Economics](https://wagrains.org/economics/) - Nearly all wheat farms in Eastern Washington are owned and operated by families, generating revenue that helps drive the economy of small towns. More than 11,000 jobs are tied to wheat and barley farming in Washington. These jobs can be found at country elevators where farmers store and sell their wheat, companies that provide farmers
- [The Land](https://wagrains.org/the-land/) - Eastern Washington’s landscape of wheat fields has been shaped by glaciers, volcanos, floods and wind. On the Waterville Plateau, wheat fields are rocky and populated by glacial erratics–massive rocks–dropped when glaciers melted a millennia ago. Erupting volcanoes, particularly the ash from the eruption of Mount Mazama 7,700 years ago, was a major contributor to the
- [Transportation](https://wagrains.org/transportation/) - Eastern Washington wheat farmers have two essential transportation alternatives where much of the rest of the nation only has one. Rail service and barge transportation work together to move millions of bushels to ocean export locations each year. The competition that results from two alternatives keeps transportation rates lower here than in other states that
- [Harvesting](https://wagrains.org/harvesting/) - Unlike the Midwest where wheat farmers often depend on independent combine crews to harvest their fields, most farmers in Eastern Washington own their own combines—or two or three—in order to be as efficient as possible. Getting the crop in the bin is the last step in a long process with a fickle partner: Mother Nature.
- [Growing Season](https://wagrains.org/growing-season/) - Soft white winter wheat, which is planted in the fall, is the dominant class grown in Eastern Washington. Exactly when the crop is planted depends on the moisture condition of the soil. In years of adequate moisture, seeding is largely complete in September. Under drought conditions, farmers may wait into October or even early November
- [Our Farmers](https://wagrains.org/our-farmers/) - There are roughly 2,500 active wheat and barley farms in Eastern Washington cultivating 2.3 million acres of wheat and barley annually. Farmers have successfully reduced their environmental footprint since land was broken out for farms in Eastern Washington beginning in the 1860s, dramatically reducing erosion as well as the crop protection inputs necessary to ensure
- [Food & Health](https://wagrains.org/food-health/) - Wheat Health Benefits Wheat provides 20 percent of the world’s caloric consumption and for the world’s poorest 50 percent of their protein consumption too. Flour comes in two general types. Enriched flour, also known as refined flour, is milled to remove the kernel’s endosperm and doesn’t include the bran or germ. It does, however, have
- [Partnerships & Exports](https://wagrains.org/partnerships-exports/) - Partnerships The Washington Grain Commission does not buy or sell wheat or barley, and yet it serves as an essential link in the grain chain. Commissioners and staff not only intercede on behalf of farmers, wheat importers and exporters, when challenges arise, the group also helps maintain cordial relationships among customers. This is accomplished with
- [Barley Quality](https://wagrains.org/barley-quality/) - 2023 Barley Crop 83.1% Graded U.S. No. 1 According to the results of the 2023 Washington Barley Quality Survey, 83.1% of the Washington barley crop graded U.S. No.1 and 95.2% of this year’s crop graded U.S. No. 2 or better. The percentage of U.S. No. 1 is above the five-year average of 80.1%. The average
- [Barley Production](https://wagrains.org/barley-production/) - Washington Barley Production Washington planted 80,000 acres of barley in 2024, which is slightly down 5,000 from last year. Harvested area, at 70,000 acres, is slightly down 6,000 acres from 2023. Barley production in Washington is 4.62 million bushels, up 3.8% percent from last year with yield estimated at 66 bushels per acre, up from
- [Wheat Production](https://wagrains.org/wheat-production/) - How much land in Washington is planted to wheat? The playing surface of a football field is about an acre. About 2.24 million football fields of wheat were harvested in Eastern Washington in 2024, which is the same as in 2023 and down slightly from 2.27 million football fields in 2022. Wheat Production – 2024
- [Our Grains](https://wagrains.org/our-grains/) - About Washington Grain For 20,000 years humans have been eating wheat. First as seeds from the heads of wild relatives, then pounded into a crude flour which was made into flat breads beginning about 14,000 years ago. Small grain farming began in the “Fertile Crescent” of the Middle East about 12,000 years ago. Eastern Washington
- [Ben Adams](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/ben-adams/) - Ben Adams District 4 Wheat (Adams, Chelan, Douglas, Grant, Okanogan) Ben Adams is the wheat representative for the north-central region of the state. Ben grew up in Coulee City and received his bachelor’s degree in accounting and business management form Whitworth University in Spokane. After college, he obtained his certified public accountant (CPA) license and
- [Brian Liedl](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/brian-liedl/) - Brian Liedl Wheat Industry Representative Brian Liedl is one of two grain industry representatives on the Washington Grain Commission. Brian received a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University in Minnesota. He started his career working in the open outcry pit at the Minneapolis Grain Exchange as a licensed broker and wheat market analyst for a
- [Gary Bailey](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/gary-bailey/) - Gary Bailey District 2 Wheat (Whitman) Gary Bailey is a St. John-area wheat grower representing Whitman County, the nation’s leading wheat producing county. Gary grew up in the town of St. John and received his bachelor’s degree in business and agriculture from the University of Idaho. He worked for the company now called AgWest Farm
- [Brit Ausman](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/brit-ausman/) - Brit Ausman District 3 Wheat (Columbia, Walla Walla, Garfield, Asotin) Brit Ausman is wheat grower representing four counties that make up the southeast corner of the state. Brit is a fifth-generation farmer, whose family homesteaded in Asotin County in 1878. He received a Bachelor of Science in agribusiness from the University of Idaho. Brit grows
- [Mike Miller](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/mike-miller/) - Mike Miller District 4 Wheat (Adams, Chelan, Douglas, Grant, Okanogan) Mike Miller is the wheat representative for the north-central region of the state. Mike grew up in Eastern Washington and is a fourth-generation dryland and irrigated farmer near the town of Ritzville, an area that receives around 9 to 10 inches of annual rainfall. He
- [Scott Steinbacher](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/scott-steinbacher/) - Scott Steinbacher Washington State Dept. of Agriculture Scott Steinbacher is the appointed Washington State Dept. of Agriculture (WSDA) representative on the Washington Grain Commission. Scott is originally from Fort Benton, Montana. He received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Montana State University Billings and holds Federal Grain Inspection Service licenses to inspect several commodities.
- [Brian Cochrane](https://wagrains.org/wgc-commissioners/brian-cochrane/) - Brian Cochrane District 5 Wheat (Benton, Franklin, Kittitas, Klickitat, Yakima) Brian is a Kahlotus-area wheat grower representing five counties that make up the south-central region of the state. His grandfather gave him his first job running an elevator in the town of Estes when he was seven years old. He was 13 when he took
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- [Publications Section](https://wagrains.org/?elementor_library=publications-section) - Grower Services The Washington Grain Commission is supported by many of the same farmers and landlords who are members of the Washington Association of Wheat Growers, a sister organization that is guided by members through grass-roots committees. WAWG and the WGC work cooperatively to protect and enhance the industry. Under its Grower Services category, the
- [Featured Podcast](https://wagrains.org/?elementor_library=featured-podcast) - Ep. 163 The Episodes About The Biggest Threat to PNW Production Agriculture February 4, 2020So many challenges are facing Pacific Northwest wheat farmers nowadays that it’s difficult to choose which one comes first on…Listen Now
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- [Icon List Info Section](https://wagrains.org/?elementor_library=icon-list-info-section) - Types of WASHINGTON Wheat About 80 percent of the wheat grown in Eastern Washington is soft white wheat, one of six classes grown in the U.S. It is used for cookies, crackers, pastries and Asian delicacies including sponge cake. Other wheat classes include hard red winter wheat grown in the Midwest and hard red spring wheat
- [Icon List & Gallery Section](https://wagrains.org/?elementor_library=icon-list-gallery-section) - Wheat is the world’s most essential crop, providing 20 percent of calories necessary to feed the planet’s seven billion people (expected to grow to nine billion by 2050). Mechanization of the industry took place in the early 1900s. Fertilization and herbicide use were revolutionary, coming largely after World War II. For many years, farmers depended
- [Fixed White BG Center Justified](https://wagrains.org/?elementor_library=fixed-white-bg-center-justified) - Research is the big ticket item at the WGC with more than 36 percent of the 2019-2020 budget dedicated to the category. Scientists specializing in plant breeding at Washington State University and the Agricultural Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, come in for a large share of the funding.
- [50/50 Info Section](https://wagrains.org/?elementor_library=50-50-info-section) - History of Wheat Mother Nature created wheat in its natural laboratory over millions of years. Discovery of its nutrition, versatility, and taste began in phases, beginning approximately 20,000 years ago when anthropologists believe the first humans began eating the seeds out of the heads of wheat. In Jordan, in 2019, archeologists discovered hearths where wheat
- [Center Justified Info Section](https://wagrains.org/?elementor_library=center-justified-info-section) - Seasonal production Wheat production was 142.7 million bushels, down 6.8 percent from 2018 with a yield estimated at 64.7 bushels per acre, compared to 70.8 bushels per acre in 2018. Winter wheat production is based on 1.7 million harvested acres at 70 bushels per acre for a total of 119 million bushels. Spring wheat was
- [Bio Page Template](https://wagrains.org/?elementor_library=bio-page-template) - Ben Barstow District VI Barley (Whitman, Asotin, Columbia, Garfield, Walla Walla, Benton, Franklin, Klickitat, Yakima) Ben Barstow has worn a lot of hats along with the one he wears while he’s farming outside Palouse, Washington. Although he wanted to become a farmer like his grandfather since he was a teenager, a lack of land prevented
- [History of Wheat Section](https://wagrains.org/?elementor_library=history-of-wheat-section) - History of grain For 20,000 years, humans have been eating wheat, first as seeds from the heads of wild relatives, then pounded into a crude flour which was made into flat breads beginning about 14,000 years ago. Small grain farming began in the “Fertile Crescent” of the Middle East about 12,000 years ago.
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