THOUGHT PIECES

Recent research underscores the benefits of leaving straw residue post-harvest, highlighting improvements in erosion control and soil moisture retention .

Wheat growers in the Pacific Northwest may have reason for optimism this year—WSU is forecasting a quiet season for stripe rust.

The Bureau of Reclamation released its April total water supply available forecast for the Yakima basin, which shows little change in the anticipated water supply for the season ahead.

National Recognition for Local Expertise: Meridian, ID’s Skye Root Named APEX 2024 National Broker of the Year

Fresh apple holdings are down 14.1% from last season, and total apple holdings have dipped 5.7%, according to new USApple numbers.

“We can’t run a farm without people.” That quote from Oregon grower Doug Krahmer sums up what many producers across the PNW are feeling as the 2024 season ramps up—growing concern over labor availability and rising H-2A program costs.

In “Bridging the Water Finance Gap as Client Impacts Bite“, Scott  highlights the urgent need to bridge the massive financial gap in water infrastructure and management. With increasing droughts, floods, and water scarcity, traditional funding models are proving insufficient.

The shrinking Colorado River poses a serious threat to U.S. agriculture, especially in areas like California’s Imperial Valley that depend on it for irrigation. With a 20% reduction in flow compared to the 20th century, the competition for water resources is intensifying, potentially impacting our nation’s food supply.

Great news for Idaho’s agriculture! The Boise/Payette/Lower Snake River watershed boasts a snowpack at 145% of normal as of January 5, 2025. This bodes well for our water resources and the upcoming growing season.

The future of farming is arriving, and it’s driving itself. A recent report in Investors.com details John Deere’s latest leap forward: the unveiling of new, fully autonomous tractors. As labor shortages and the need for increased efficiency become more pressing, Deere’s innovation signals a significant shift towards automated farming.