Colorado’s wheat crop is facing major challenges this year, according to a May 15 report. The United States Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service forecasted on May 12 that the state’s winter wheat production for 2026 will be 33.6 million bushels. This projection represents a decrease of about 52 percent from Colorado’s ten-year average of 71 million bushels and could result in the smallest crop since 1965.
The situation matters to many across the state, as wheat farming plays an important role in Colorado’s agricultural economy and community livelihoods. The current season has been marked by adverse conditions including drought, freeze events, mosaic disease, aphids, mites, and Wheat Stem Sawfly infestations.
The Colorado Wheat Administrative Committee supports local farmers through research and outreach programs funded by assessments based on harvest volumes. The committee also works to improve pest management and crop resilience while collaborating with organizations such as the Colorado Wheat Research Foundation and the Colorado Association of Wheat Growers to serve producers effectively, according to the official website.
Efforts by the committee include introducing new wheat varieties like Amplify SF that have seen widespread adoption among producers. The group advances farmers’ interests through research initiatives, educational efforts, market development activities, and policy advocacy while extending its services not only throughout Colorado but also into parts of Nebraska—all according to information available on their official website.
Looking ahead, continued support from organizations like the Colorado Wheat Administrative Committee may help address ongoing threats to crops and assist farmers as they navigate challenging growing seasons.
