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
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