In this episode of Wheat’s On Your Mind, Arron Harries and Justin Gilpin regroup after their insightful conversation with Senator Jerry Moran to unpack the latest in ag policy and harvest developments. With the recent reconciliation bill pushing key wins for Kansas agriculture—including improved crop insurance, better ARC/PLC guarantees, and funding boosts for wheat export programs—this episode offers clear, actionable updates for producers and stakeholders. They also touch on USDA’s revised harvest projections, which reflect a diverse year in the field thanks to disease pressure from wheat streak mosaic and late-season rains.

Listeners also get a broader view of U.S. wheat's role globally, with news of a promising new trade agreement with Indonesia and the ongoing strategic importance of food aid programs like Food for Peace. The episode wraps with a spirited discussion on how the industry can counter high-profile misinformation about bread. Whether you're wrapping up harvest or planning for fall planting, this episode delivers valuable insights and timely reminders to help keep wheat top of mind.

Takeaways:

1. The reconciliation bill delivered major wins for wheat farmers—especially in ARC/PLC and crop insurance.
2. Senate ag appropriations include significant funding for Food for Peace and wheat breeding programs.
3. Harvest variability is high this year, with some areas hit hard by wheat streak mosaic.
4. K-State’s wheat-free date guidance is key for managing wheat curl mite risks.
5. Fall wheat acreage might dip slightly due to market conditions and crop rotation factors.
6. Wheat straw is regaining importance for soil health and moisture retention.
7. A new multi-year trade agreement with Indonesia marks a positive step for U.S. wheat exports.
8. There is growing need for a National Wheat Strategy focused on competitiveness and food security.
9. Misinformation about wheat and bread needs unified industry response.
10. Wheat continues to be a global staple—supplying 1 in 5 human calories daily.

Timestamps:

00:10 – Recap of conversation with Senator Jerry Moran
01:43 – Breakdown of reconciliation bill highlights
03:37 – Senate ag appropriations: Food for Peace, McGovern-Dole
06:33 – Kansas wheat harvest report and USDA updates
08:35 – Disease pressure and K-State wheat-free dates
09:53 – Acreage forecasts and straw residue value
11:48 – Indonesia trade agreement and U.S. wheat exports
14:33 – National Wheat Strategy and Breadbasket Diplomacy
18:09 – Responding to anti-bread messaging (Joe Rogan discussion)
21:45 – The historical and dietary importance of wheat

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