The Commission released its annual wheat variety survey, estimating the state's planted acres by variety and region.
According to the report posted on the CWC website yesterday, total planted acres are estimated at 560,000 acres, down 18% from last year's survey. "Lower plantings are attributed to weaker wheat prices and lack of rain at planting time, increased competition from other crops, and uncertainty of the availability of irrigation water," concluded the report. Grain production will be further reduced by higher hay and silage demand from California dairies. See the full report for details.
Commission Sets Program Priorities, Approves Budget
The Commission met last week and approved a new budget for the fiscal year starting on May 1. Research and market development remained the top priorities although spending was cut in all categories in light of the expected drop in income due to lower grain production. After much discussion, the Commission voted to approve an assessment rate increase to $.06/cwt, up one penny. This will improve the assessment outlook but the Commission will still tap into reserves to fund its activities.
The Commission also approved the proposed district revisions, which reduced the number of grower districts from 13 to nine. These changes will take effect in the election cycle this summer.
Trade Teams to Visit California
US Wheat Associates (USW), which is the export promotion arm of the US wheat industry, will be bringing two trade teams to California this summer. Milling customers from Japan and Taiwan will travel to various wheat states during their respective tours, meeting with farmers, grain handlers and wheat commissions in order to learn about this year's crop.
"We welcome the opportunity to get to know key customers," said Roy Motter, a durum grower and current CWC Chairman. "California exports about one quarter of its crop, which helps maintain healthy demand overall." Motter is also the Chairman-elect of USW, the first Californian to hold that post.
The United States exports about half of its total wheat production each year, and Asian countries are major customers. USW maintains offices in 15 countries around the world.
Upcoming Field Days: • Kings/Tulare Field Day - May 1 • UC Davis Field Day - May 7
