The Colorado Wheat Administrative Committee reported on April 24 that wheat crop conditions in the state have worsened following a period of freezing temperatures, followed by near-90 degree heat. Drought remains the main concern for producers, although forecasts indicate possible rainfall in the coming week.
The outlook is important as it affects both farmers’ livelihoods and the local agricultural economy. Some wheat fields could benefit from incoming moisture, but for others, rain may arrive too late to improve yields.
Wheat grown in 32 Colorado counties under the Colorado Wheat Marketing Order is subject to an assessment rate of two cents per bushel. Producers can request a refund for any portion of this assessment exceeding one-half cent per bushel by submitting an application form with proof of payment within 30 days of sale or loan placement. The wheat assessment is collected by first handlers such as elevators or feedlots and remitted to the committee.
The Colorado Wheat Administrative Committee obtains funding through assessments based on harvest volumes to support research and outreach according to its official website. The committee contributes to community well-being by funding research into pest management and crop resilience as outlined on its website. It also collaborates with organizations such as the Colorado Wheat Research Foundation and the Colorado Association of Wheat Growers according to its website.
To help meet quality standards required by industry partners like Ardent Mills, PlainsGold Hard White Winter wheat varieties are developed at Colorado State University specifically for use in UltraGrain products. For 2026, included varieties are Snowmass 2.0, Breck, Monarch, Windom SF, and Telluride; certified seed is required for contracts with Ardent Mills.
The committee advances interests of state wheat farmers through research efforts, educational programs, market development initiatives, and policy advocacy according to its official site. Its services extend beyond Colorado into parts of Nebraska as noted online, while recent innovations include introducing widely adopted varieties like Amplify SF as reported by the committee.
