Wheat's On Your Mind

In this episode, we engage with Dalton Henry, the Vice President of Policy at U.S. Wheat Associates, and Peter Laudman, the Director of Trade Policy at U.S. Wheat Associates. 

Together, they bring a wealth of experience in agricultural policy and trade, focusing on the implications of new technologies in the wheat industry. Their insights shed light on the evolving landscape of wheat consumption and production in the U.S., as well as the regulatory challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

We discuss the critical advancements in wheat seed technology, including genetically modified organisms (GMOs), hybrid wheat, and gene editing, and their implications for U.S. farmers and international markets.

• The introduction of HB4 drought-tolerant wheat marks a significant milestone in the global wheat industry.
• The streamlined regulatory process in the U.S. facilitates quicker approvals for GMOs, benefiting future gene editing technologies.
• Successful commercialization of GM wheat can address agricultural challenges, as demonstrated by the HB4 trait.
• Lessons from the Syngenta MIR162 case highlight the importance of securing regulatory approvals before market introduction.
• Maintaining communication with international markets is essential for ensuring U.S. wheat remains competitive.
• Embracing innovative wheat technologies is crucial for addressing food security and climate resilience challenges.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction to the Wheat's On Your Mind podcast and guests

(01:06) - Background on wheat consumption, production, and seed technology

(02:23) - Impact of biofuels initiatives on crop choices

(03:38) - Overview of GMOs, hybrid wheat, and gene editing technologies

(03:53) - Discussion of HB4 drought-tolerant wheat trait in Argentina

(05:11) - Peter's reconnaissance trip to Argentina to learn about HB4

(06:15) - Observations from HB4 wheat field trials

(07:23) - Performance of HB4 wheat under drought and normal conditions

(09:35) - Regulatory approvals for HB4 wheat globally

(11:10) - Process for introducing GMO traits in the US market

(13:45) - Lessons from past GMO commercialization issues

(15:14) - US wheat industry principles for biotechnology commercialization

(16:53) - Customer reactions to GMO wheat developments

(19:04) - Communication and relationship with Bioceres

(20:55) - Implications of HB4 approval on other wheat technologies

(24:00) - Global progress on gene-edited wheat development

(25:26) - Importance of new wheat technologies for global competitiveness

(27:24) - Humanitarian aspects of increased wheat production

(28:50) - Closing remarks on the future of wheat technology

Kansas Wheat

In this episode, Aaron Harries speaks with Dr. Kelsey Andersen Onofre, an Assistant Professor at Kansas State University specializing in plant pathology and the impact of diseases on wheat crops. 

We discuss the significant disease pressures affecting the Kansas wheat crop in 2024, emphasizing the challenges posed by stripe rust, leaf rust, and stem rust, along with the emerging threats of viral diseases.

• Stripe rust emerged as the most destructive disease, with early detection in April and increased severity in May. 
• Effective management strategies include genetic resistance, timely fungicide applications, and controlling volunteer wheat. 
• Diseases like stripe rust and stem rust can lead to severe yield losses, historically reaching up to 25% due to common bunt. 
• Viral diseases, particularly wheat streak mosaic virus and triticum mosaic virus, are becoming more prevalent in central Kansas. 
• Producers should utilize resources like the Kansas wheat variety guide to make informed decisions on disease management. 
• Controlling volunteer wheat within two weeks of planting is crucial to prevent wheat streak mosaic.
   

Where did they say that?

(00:00) - Introduction to the Wheat's On Your Mind podcast with guest Dr. Kelsey Andersen Onofre

(00:52) - Reflecting on the 2024 wheat crop and disease pressure

(01:42) - Overview of rust diseases affecting Kansas wheat in 2024

(03:49) - Impact of weather patterns on stripe rust development

(04:27) - Leaf rust and stem rust observations in Kansas

(05:18) - Discussion on stem rust and its management challenges

(06:32) - Increased leaf rust pressure compared to recent years

(07:24) - Fungicide usage patterns for rust control in 2024

(08:34) - Unexpected prevalence of root and foot rots in Kansas wheat

(10:30) - Distinguishing between freeze damage and root/foot rots

(11:09) - Effectiveness of seed treatments for root and foot rot management

(12:31) - Brief update on Fusarium head blight situation

(13:04) - Historical perspective on common bunt (stinking smut) in wheat

(14:53) - Emergence of a "dwarf bunt doppelganger" and its implications

(17:20) - Control options for bunt diseases and seed treatment efficacy

(18:56) - Overview of viral diseases affecting Kansas wheat

(20:11) - Emergence of Triticum mosaic virus as a growing concern

(23:17) - Importance of controlling volunteer wheat to manage viral diseases

(24:44) - Best management practices for disease control in wheat

(26:40) - Disease management considerations for conventional till vs. no-till systems

(27:59) - Resources for accessing wheat disease management information

Kansas Wheat

A few days ago, Aaron Harries and Justin Gilpin had the pleasure of speaking with Matt Hines, a licensed commodity broker from Loewen and Associates. 
Our conversation delved into the intricate world of grain marketing, risk management, and the global dynamics affecting wheat producers. Matt emphasized the importance of understanding market factors and developing effective marketing strategies to ensure profitability in an ever-changing landscape.

Market Dynamics: Understanding the factors influencing commodity prices, such as USDA reports, global trade, and regional competition.

Matt highlighted the significance of staying informed about market dynamics. For instance, the recent USDA crop report indicated a decrease in wheat production, which can directly impact pricing and availability. Producers must keep an eye on these reports to make informed decisions.

Risk Management: The necessity of developing tailored risk management plans for individual producers.

We discussed how crucial it is for farmers to have a risk management strategy that aligns with their specific needs. This approach allows them to navigate market fluctuations more effectively and safeguard their investments.

Quality vs. Quantity: The shift towards producing high-quality wheat varieties to meet market demands.

Matt pointed out that local elevators are starting to pay more for protein content in wheat. This shift underscores the importance of quality over quantity, as it can lead to better market prices and meet the specific needs of buyers.

Understanding Competition: Recognizing the competitive landscape, particularly the challenges posed by Russian exports.

We explored how U.S. wheat producers face stiff competition from countries like Australia, Russia, and Ukraine. Understanding this competitive landscape is vital for producers to position themselves effectively in the global market.

Actionable Marketing Strategies: Focusing on break-even costs and utilizing various marketing tools.

Matt provided practical advice for producers to understand their break-even costs and leverage marketing tools such as cash sales and options. This knowledge empowers them to manage risk and make informed marketing decisions.

What We Cover
(00:00) - Introduction to the Wheat's on Your Mind Podcast and guest Matt Hines.

(00:28) - Matt's educational background and career journey in grain merchandising.

(01:13) - Welcoming Matt Hines to the podcast.

(01:16) - Discussion about Matt's dual major in agriculture economics and milling science.

(01:40) - Matt shares his decision-making process for choosing his majors.

(02:25) - The relevance of Matt's milling science degree in his current work.

(02:51) - Insights on the value of a milling science degree in the ag industry.

(03:33) - Transition to discussing Matt's recent presentation on commodity markets.

(04:00) - Overview of the August crop report and its impact on the market.

(04:50) - Discussion on USDA's changes to wheat production and ending stocks.

(05:31) - The influence of the dollar price on the wheat market.

(06:12) - Matt explains the competitive landscape in the wheat market, particularly in Southeast Asia.

(06:22) - Insights on Egypt's recent wheat tender and its implications.

(07:17) - Discussion on the potential Russia-Egypt wheat deal.

(08:10) - Reactions to Egypt's large wheat tender and its market impact.

(09:30) - Analyzing the reasons behind Egypt's significant tender amidst regional tensions.

(10:33) - Explanation of how Egypt's government agency, GASC, operates in wheat purchasing.

(12:05) - Discussion on the importance of wheat for the Egyptian population.

(12:18) - Matt shares insights on the evolving landscape of wheat buyers.

(12:38) - Matt discusses the competitive markets for U.S. wheat exports.

(13:06) - The potential for U.S. wheat to regain market share in exports.

(13:47) - Transition to discussing risk management in grain marketing.

(14:09) - Matt explains his approach to improving marketing skills for producers.

(15:08) - The importance of understanding break-even points in grain marketing.

(16:08) - Strategies for managing risk and making sales in grain marketing.

(17:15) - Emphasis on the importance of cash sales and using multiple marketing tools.

(18:30) - Discussion on the role of on-farm storage in marketing strategies.

(19:18) - The complexity of marketing for farmers and the need for assistance.

(20:23) - Matt emphasizes the importance of filtering market information for producers.

(21:32) - The role of on-farm storage in managing grain sales post-harvest.

(22:05) - Matt discusses the need for quality over quantity in wheat production.

(23:03) - Insights on how genetics can add value to wheat varieties.

(24:51) - The importance of local markets paying attention to protein content in wheat.

(25:58) - Matt's perspective on the future of wheat quality and market demands.

(26:10) - Contact information for Matt Hines and Loewen and Associates.

(26:30) - Closing remarks and thanks to Matt Hines for joining the podcast.

(27:08) - Aaron Harries wraps up the episode and invites listener feedback.

Kansas Wheat

Origins of Bread Wheat: Bread wheat has its roots in the Fertile Crescent, dating back 8,000 to 10,000 years. It emerged from the hybridization of two wild grasses, leading to the domestication of three types of wheat: Einkorn, Emmer, and Common wheat. This historical context is crucial for understanding the evolution of our food systems.

Genetic Complexity: Bread wheat is a hexaploid, meaning it has six sets of chromosomes (AABBDD). In contrast, Einkorn has 14 chromosomes (AA), and Emmer has 28 chromosomes (AABB). The contribution of Aegilops tauschii to the D genome of bread wheat highlights the intricate genetic makeup that supports its resilience.

Wheat Genetics Resource Center: Established in 1981, the center has expanded its collection from 300 to over 10,000 lines of wild germplasm. This repository is vital for breeding programs, ensuring that we have access to the genetic diversity necessary for future wheat improvement.

Research and Collaboration: Current research projects focus on enhancing traits like drought and disease resistance by utilizing wild relatives. The center's collaborations with various institutions globally underscore the importance of shared knowledge in advancing wheat genetics.

Funding Challenges: The episode also touched on the difficulties of securing funding for agricultural research, particularly in wheat genetics. This is a pressing issue that impacts our ability to maintain genetic diversity and adapt to climate change.

Timestamps
(00:00) - Introduction to the Wheat's On Your Mind podcast and guests Bikram Gill and John Raupp.

(00:27) - Background on Bikram Gill and John Raupp, their roles at the Wheat Genetics Resource Center.

(00:57) - Discussion on the origins of bread wheat, tracing back 8,000 to 10,000 years.

(01:26) - Explanation of the two parts of wheat's origin: natural hybridization and human domestication.

(01:46) - Overview of the three types of wheat: monococcum, dicoccum, and common wheat.

(02:40) - Insight into the selection process of bread wheat by early farmers.

(03:06) - Statistics on bread wheat's significance as a staple crop globally.

(03:16) - Discussion on the fertile crescent and the diversity of crops in that region.

(03:40) - Explanation of how wild wheat’s hybridized with domesticated wheat over time.

(04:03) - Clarification on the origin of Turkey Red Wheat and its naming.

(04:16) - Introduction to the complexity of wheat as a hexaploid species.

(04:43) - Historical context of wheat classification during World War I.

(05:08) - Description of the chromosome numbers in different wheat types.

(05:44) - Discussion on the identification of the third genome donor for bread wheat.

(06:33) - Explanation of the relationship between goat grass and wheat.

(07:30) - Insights into the challenges of researching hexaploid species.

(08:28) - Discussion on the vision for the Wheat Genetics Resource Center and its establishment.

(09:55) - Bikram shares his vision for the resource center and its importance for wheat research.

(10:30) - Overview of the initial funding and support for the Wheat Genetics Resource Center.

(12:10) - Description of the collection's growth and the hiring of key personnel.

(13:34) - Discussion on expeditions to the Middle East for collecting wild wheat species.

(14:12) - Insights into the genetic diversity found in wild wheat species.

(15:36) - Overview of the significance of Aegilops tauschii in wheat breeding.

(17:09) - Current size and distribution of the Wheat Genetics Resource Center's collection.

(18:10) - Discussion on the adaptability of Aegilops tauschii across various habitats.

(19:22) - Explanation of the genetic relationships between wild grasses and cultivated wheat.

(20:03) - Overview of cytogenetics and its role in wheat research.

(21:40) - Discussion on the importance of sequencing the bread wheat genome.

(22:52) - Challenges faced in sequencing the wheat genome and the international collaboration involved.

(24:14) - Comparison of the wheat genome size to other species, including humans.

(25:19) - Explanation of genetic buffering in wheat and its implications for resilience.

(26:01) - John’s role as curator of the Wheat Genetics Resource Center and his responsibilities.

(27:43) - Discussion on the maintenance and distribution of the wheat collection.

(29:05) - Insights into the domestication of wheat and its impact on agriculture.

(30:41) - Overview of the National Science Foundation's support for the Wheat Genetics Resource Center.

(32:08) - Current research projects under the National Science Foundation center.

(34:05) - Discussion on the potential of ancient grasses and ongoing research opportunities.

(36:01) - Overview of the public accessibility of the wheat collection and global requests for seeds.

(38:06) - Insights into the advancements in technology and their impact on wheat research.

(39:12) - Discussion on the future of gene editing and its potential in wheat improvement.

(41:35) - Overview of the redundancy and security of seed collections worldwide.

(43:45) - Discussion on the importance of preserving genetic diversity in wild wheats.

(46:02) - Bikram's ongoing work in India and its relevance to wheat genetics.

(47:32) - Closing remarks and thanks to guests for their insights on wheat genetics.
 

Kansas Wheat

In our latest episode, Aaron Harries spoke with Reid Christopherson, a man whose career spans military service and agricultural leadership. 
Reid's journey from the U.S. Air Force to becoming the Executive Director of the South Dakota Wheat Commission is nothing short of inspiring. 

(00:02) - Introduction to the podcast and guest

(00:25) - Reid Christopherson's background and career

(01:01) - Congratulations on retirement and initial thoughts

(01:21) - Transition from animal science and Air Force to wheat

(02:34) - Reid's upbringing and early interest in agriculture

(03:27) - Experiences and roles in the Air Force

(04:03) - Overview of the South Dakota Wheat Commission

(04:52) - Explanation of the check-off system

(05:22) - Leadership transition and predecessor's impact

(06:14) - State of wheat in South Dakota over the past decade

(07:22) - Crop diversity and types of wheat grown in South Dakota

(08:21) - Challenges with spring wheat and winter hardiness

(09:37) - Protein standards and market challenges

(10:11) - Biggest challenges facing South Dakota farmers

(10:55) - Wheat market flow and export challenges

(12:01) - On-farm storage practices in South Dakota

(12:50) - Message to international trade teams

(13:35) - Reid's international travel and experiences

(14:53) - Thoughts on U.S. policy towards the global wheat market

(16:01) - Future of wheat check-off investments

(16:38) - Surprises and complexities in the wheat industry

(17:24) - Reid's involvement with the Boy Scouts

(18:23) - Role as Chief of Logistics for the National Scout Jamboree

(19:17) - Applying wheat industry knowledge to scouting

(19:52) - Future plans and continued community service

(20:43) - Introduction of Reid's successor at the South Dakota Wheat Commission

(21:47) - Final message to South Dakota wheat farmers

(22:23) - Closing remarks and appreciation

(23:09) - Conclusion and contact information

Kansas Wheat

In our latest podcast episode, I had the pleasure of welcoming Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat, to discuss the current wheat crop amidst challenging conditions. 
Justin offered valuable insights into how wheat breeders and scientists are improving genetics and enhancing yield potential. 
With Kansas facing hot and windy weather, the crop's performance, though better than expected, varies due to multiple factors. Justin also shed light on promising wheat varieties and the industry's efforts to combat the triticum mosaic virus.

(00:00) - Introduction and harvest update. Aaron and Justin discuss the variability of the 2024 wheat crop yields across Kansas, reflecting on the role of variety, rainfall, and disease.

(01:55) - The importance of establishing wheat in the fall and the benefits of new genetics and management practices. They highlight promising new wheat varieties with disease resistance and high yield potential.

(04:08) - Justin shares insights from his recent visits to test plots and field days, including the promising performance of KS Bill Snyder and AP Prolific varieties.

(05:42) - Discussion on wheat genetics and the challenges posed by wheat streak mosaic and triticum mosaic viruses. The importance of controlling volunteer wheat until new improved genetics are established.

(07:12) - Market fluctuations and the impact of global events like Turkey's wheat import ban and Russian wheat production uncertainties. Justin explains how these factors influence wheat prices.

(11:31) - Harvest pressure and challenges faced by farmers in South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota due to historic rainfall and flooding.

(12:56) - US wheat export projections for the new market year and the strong start to exports of hard red winter wheat. The role of Mexico as a key customer and the challenges of border security.

(14:48) - The value of wheat beyond the grain itself, focusing on its role in soil health, sustainability, and climate-smart agriculture. Justin highlights the work of Kansas Wheat in advocating for these aspects.

(17:00) - A lightning round covers damage to the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center's greenhouse from a hailstorm, Justin's attendance at the US Wheat Associates' staff conference, and the upcoming leadership role of a Kansas farmer, Gary Millershaskii.

(19:50) - Discussions at the Wheat Foods Council's domestic market meeting, centring on flour consumption trends and the potential impact of ozempic shots.

(22:20) - Conclusion, with Justin acknowledging the significance of the 150th anniversary of Mennonites introducing turkey red winter wheat to Kansas.

Kansas Wheat

(00:00) - Introduction to Wheat's on Your Mind Podcast

(00:25) - Guest Introduction: Tim Raile and his family farm

(00:47) - Brief history of Tim's family farm

(01:05) - Tim's family migration from Moldova/Ukraine to Kansas

(01:23) - Mennonites and turkey red wheat

(01:42) - Catherine The Great and German farmers in Russia

(02:08) - Genealogy research by Tim's sister

(02:34) - Contemplating organic farming

(03:11) - Transition to no-till farming in late 1990s

(03:41) - Issues with no-till farming and chemical resistance

(04:19) - First organic crop from expiring CRP land

(04:44) - Decision to convert entire farm to organic

(05:21) - Organic certification process

(06:33) - Equipment changes for organic farming

(07:19) - Crop rotation and organic wheat operation

(08:34) - Identifying marketplaces for organic crops

(09:50) - Marketing strategies and building relationships with mills

(10:51) - On-farm storage and logistics

(12:26) - Challenges in storing organic wheat

(13:18) - Agronomics of organic wheat: inputs, fertilizer, and pest control

(14:58) - Defining quality for food-grade wheat

(16:38) - Selecting wheat varieties for organic farming

(17:21) - Rust resistance and weed control strategies

(18:01) - Drill spacing and seed population

(18:39) - Advice for farmers considering organic conversion

(19:59) - Challenges and rewards of organic farming

(21:33) - Traceability and relationships with end users

(22:48) - Growth of organic market and demand

(23:44) - Scrutiny on imported organic commodities

(25:10) - Mentoring other farmers in organic transition

(25:29) - Reflections on organic farming journey

(26:37) - Opportunities for Kansas farmers in organic farming

(27:51) - Soil health and regenerative agriculture

(29:46) - Strength and resilience of organic crops

(30:06) - Closing remarks and contact information

Kansas Wheat

AgriPro Wheat website

(00:00:03) Welcome to the podcast.

(00:00:22) Jon Rich is introduced, with details about his background and family.

(00:00:57) Jon shares how his passion for agriculture started with his grandparents' farm and his father's work as a wheat breeder.

(00:02:14) He credits his mother for instilling tenacity in him, which is crucial in plant breeding.

(00:02:36) Jon discusses his mentors, including Joe Martin, Rollie Sears, and Harold Erickson, who taught him valuable lessons.

(00:06:13) Jon highlights AgriPro's history and transformation, becoming the largest private wheat breeding program in the US.

(00:07:46) He explains the collaboration between public and private breeding programs, sharing germplasm strategically to improve disease tolerance and yield.

(00:10:33) Jon emphasizes the proliferation of varieties, giving farmers more options to place different genetics on their farms.

(00:12:16) He discusses the benefits of having wheat in crop rotations, including soil health, weed resistance management, and cash flow.

(00:14:28) Jon talks about the potential of wheat yields, even in unstable climates, and the role of hybrid wheat in pushing yield boundaries.

(00:18:34) He addresses the scalability challenges of hybrid wheat production and what they have learned from their launch of spring wheat.

(00:22:30) Jon provides an update on AgriPro's hybrid wheat timeline, with significant spring wheat launches in 2025 and winter wheat following a year or two later.

(00:25:32) He explains the science behind hybrid wheat, including the complexities of maintaining male-sterile and restorer lines.

(00:29:15) Jon acknowledges the challenges of being a winter wheat breeder compared to spring wheat, due to the unpredictable growing conditions.

(00:32:20) He discusses the importance of consistency in wheat breeding, aiming for top-end yields while avoiding "one-hit wonders."

(00:33:58) Jon talks about balancing quality and yield in breeding, highlighting AgriPro's role in establishing the Platte program.

(00:37:15) He shares his thoughts on the potential of gene editing and GMO wheat, emphasizing the need to explore all available technologies.

(00:40:40) Jon expresses his passion for helping the next generation navigate the corporate world, focusing on people skills, adaptability, and tenacity.

(00:44:23) In closing, he encourages farmers to control what they can control and remain optimistic, praising the collaborative efforts in improving wheat genetics.

Kansas Wheat

(00:00) Welcome and introduction

(00:21) Andre's background and connection to Manhattan, Kansas

(00:48) The reason for Andre's visit to Manhattan

(00:54) Andre's experience living in Manhattan for his PhD studies

(01:20) Andre's fondness for Manhattan and the wheat community

(01:44) The founding of Andre's company Biotrigo in 2008

(02:01) The origins of Biotrigo and Andre's previous company

(02:27) The importance of Andre's training at K-State for Biotrigo's growth

(02:55) An overview of wheat production regions in Brazil

(03:35) Brazil's status as a wheat importer and exporter

(04:28) The logistics challenges of distributing wheat within Brazil

(05:00) The climate and growing conditions for spring wheat in southern Brazil

(06:02) The challenges of growing wheat in southern Brazil's wet climate

(07:01) The benefits of breeding wheat in disease-prone environments

(07:15) Fungicide applications for wheat crops in Brazil

(08:06) Typical crop rotations involving wheat in Brazil

(09:13) The planting and harvesting windows for spring wheat in Brazil

(09:54) The role of altitude in wheat production in Brazil

(10:36) A comparison of wheat quality goals between Brazil and Kansas

(11:47) Breeding efforts to address DON levels from Fusarium Head Blight

(12:40) The role of Argentine wheat imports in Brazil

(13:50) Opportunities for improving wheat trade with Brazil

(14:40) Andre's goal of expanding wheat production in the Cerrado region

(15:45) The challenges of growing wheat in the Cerrado region

(17:01) On-farm storage challenges for wheat in Brazil

(18:49) A new ethanol plant in Brazil using wheat as a feedstock

(20:13) Contracting wheat varieties for the ethanol plant

(21:50) The introduction of GMO wheat in Argentina

(24:17) Andre's perspective on the potential for GMO wheat adoption

(24:37) Collaborations and exchange of genetics in the wheat breeding community

(25:33) The differences between public and private wheat breeding programs

(27:22) Brazil's potential to be a major agricultural player globally

(29:57) The importance of long-term science funding for agriculture

(30:19) Closing remarks

Kansas Wheat

(00:00) Romolo's surprise at the rapid development in the Mato Grosso region

(03:38) Similarities between Brazilian and American farmers: love for their work and daily risks

(04:46) John's impressions: homogenous soils, abundant rainfall, and productive capacity

(05:56) Ken's familiarity with the southern regions and livestock integration

(07:26) Chris's blind approach and realization of shared challenges between farmers

(08:34) Explanation of Brazil's red, oxidized, and acidic soils

(10:56) Typical crop rotation in Mato Grosso: early soybeans followed by second-crop corn

(13:48) Intensive inputs required, including multiple fungicide applications

(15:03) Chris's observations on emerging challenges like nematodes and biological solutions

(17:30) John's perspective on Brazil's competitiveness and currency exchange issues

(20:29) Ken's amazement at field operations continuing after a 1.5-inch rain

(21:29) Government regulations and corporate boycotts faced by Brazilian farmers

(25:16) Anecdote about a farmer replanting a small area to regain market access

(27:41) Historical context of land development, similar to the US

(29:49) Logistical challenges with a single two-lane highway for transportation

(32:33) Potential impact of improved transportation infrastructure

(35:53) John's perspective on investment opportunities and nationalist sentiments

(39:15) Comparison of public extension systems between Brazil and the US

(40:44) Ken's thoughts on maintaining US competitiveness through regulations and research

(43:42) Biotrigo, a wheat breeding company founded by K-State graduates

(44:37) John's concerns about Brazil's potential dominance with biotech wheat

(46:57) Romolo's insights into Brazil's diversity and melting pot culture

(49:53) Potential for expanding cropland by intensifying degraded pastures

(50:25) Challenges of fertilizer imports and input costs for Brazilian farmers

(52:32) Chris's appreciation for soil health practices after witnessing Brazil's challenges

(53:55) Ken's interest in revisiting southern Brazil for tourism and cultural immersion

(55:37) John's desire to return in 5-10 years to witness Brazil's agricultural advancements

(56:42) Chris's curiosity about generational transitions and labor availability

(58:28) Romolo's final thoughts on potential areas for knowledge exchange, like sugarcane production, integrated forestry-pasture-crop systems, and grower-funded research models.

Kansas Wheat