Virtual Durum and HRS Crop Updates Supply Valuable, Timely Information to Customers
Posted: Oct 08 2020
The North Dakota Wheat Commission, along with the North Dakota Grain Growers and U.S. Durum Growers Association hosted two virtual update events for customers and others in the industry to provide an update on the 2020 spring wheat and durum crops. With many in person meetings and events put on hold due to COVID-19 restrictions, Commission staff recognized the need to still reach out to customers. “Normally summer and fall are busy months for the Commission as various trade teams visit to get crop and market updates. Also, the Wheat Quality Council normally puts on a wheat tour that allows participants to see the wheat crops first hand,” said Erica Olson, Market Development and Research Manager with the NDWC. “None of that took place this year, but we knew we needed to get the crop information out to customers and provide them with some in field updates.”
State wheat commission and grower group staff from Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota provided updates on the general growing conditions and yield and production outlook for their respective states. Extension experts gave regional updates and information on disease pressure and other issues affecting the crop. Wheat breeders and quality specialists were also available to answer questions. A highlight for many attendees were the “in field” crop updates from producers and extension staff across the four-state region. These updates provided a visual of the wheat crop as producers discussed growing conditions, challenges faced during the growing season, yield potential and harvest timeline details for their area.
The response from the industry was incredible, with over 300 participants joining the live webinars and many more viewing the recorded events. Feedback from attendees was extremely positive with many expressing appreciation for the valuable information and crop updates. To view the virtual updates, visit www.ndwheat.com/events.