The Hard Red Winter wheat harvest is nearly complete, with less than 10% remaining, and the crop continues to grade U.S. No. 1, according to the U.S. Wheat Associates’ Harvest Report. Attention in the southern region is shifting to fall planting, but severe drought remains a concern. Soft White wheat harvest also advanced this week under favorable conditions, with generally good yields and test weights.
However, lower protein and falling numbers are being monitored in some areas. Harvest of Hard Red Spring wheat is picking up speed, with about one-quarter of the crop now harvested. Early reports point to encouraging yields and strong protein levels, although conditions vary across the Northern Plains. Northern Durum harvest is also ahead of normal, but heat and drought are reducing yield potential. USDA estimates total U.S. wheat production at 1.53 billion bushels, down 23% from last year.
-NAFB