North Dakota Wheat Commission marketing director Jim Peterson took in the discussion with USDA leadership in Carrington. Given the current conditions, spring wheat yields in the state are estimated to be the lowest in ten years. Peterson said 30 bushel per acre yields and lower are a reality. “There is certainly some with zero yield potential depending on how much of the drought they endured. The early-planted wheat is taking it the toughest. Also, certain parts of the state are taking it tougher than others.” The main message from Peterson to the Risk Management Agency and Farm Service Agency was the availability of programs to get more forage to livestock producers. “For producers with crops and livestock, they’re needing to make an economic decision. They are in need of that forage, and small grains are one option, but we’re also running into nitrate issues.”
