From kernel to loaf - the Kansas wheat leadership experience

By Scout Nelson

The Kansas Wheat Leadership Program, recently held in Manhattan, Kansas, provided a unique educational experience for wheat farmers. Neil Bekemeyer, a participant and wheat farmer, along with seven others, embarked on a journey to trace the path of wheat from the farm to the consumer.

This event, sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas, allowed attendees to dive deep into the complexities of the wheat industry at no cost.

Led by Kansas Wheat's director of membership and government affairs, Shayna DeGroot, the program covered a wide range of topics. From the breeding and development of new wheat varieties to understanding the milling process, participants received a 360-degree view of the industry.

Experts, including K-State's wheat breeder Allan Fritz and associate professor Romulo Lollato, shared their knowledge on wheat physiology and breeding techniques. Discussions also ventured into farm financing, global wheat supply and demand, and farm policy issues.

One of the highlights of the program was a hands-on demonstration by Asif Mohammad from Heartland Plant Innovations on wheat emasculation, a key step in the development of new wheat varieties.

This process, pivotal for the creation of double haploids, underscores the innovative efforts to enhance wheat breeding efficiency.

The program's second day focused on the milling process, with insights from Paul Blodgett of K-State’s Hal Ross Flour Mill and Kathy Brower from Grain Craft’s Innovation & Quality Lab. Participants learned about the transformation of grain into flour and the qualities millers look for when purchasing wheat.

Shayna DeGroot emphasized the program's role in highlighting the importance of quality and the factors influencing the popularity of certain wheat varieties.

For those interested in participating in future programs and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the wheat industry, the 2025 Kansas Wheat Leadership Program awaits new participants.

For more information, interested parties are encouraged to contact Shayna DeGroot at sdegroot@kswheat.com.

Photo Credit -gettyimages-ygrek