K-State Releases Two New Wheat Varieties for Farmers

By Scout Nelson

In a significant development for the agricultural sector, Kansas State University's wheat breeding program has launched two innovative hard red winter wheat varieties. Named KS Bill Snyder and KS Mako, these varieties are set to be available for planting by farmers this fall, thanks to licensing agreements with Kansas Wheat Alliance seed associates.

The KS Bill Snyder variety pays homage to the legendary K-State football coach, Bill Snyder, reflecting the values of hard work and excellence he instilled in his teams. The variety boasts a medium maturity and medium-short stature, performing exceptionally well in the Southern Regional Performance Nursery in 2022.

It exhibits a strong disease resistance package, including resistance to stripe, leaf, and stem rust, and moderate resistance to wheat streak mosaic virus and Triticum mosaic virus. KS Bill Snyder is well-suited to central Kansas, offering high yield potential and good drought tolerance.

KS Mako, emerging from the Manhattan breeding program led by Dr. Allan Fritz, carries the legacy of high yield performance with excellent quality. With a lineage that includes Jagger and LCS Chrome, this variety stands out for its yield performance comparable to top varieties in central Kansas and adaptability to western Kansas conditions.

 KS Mako features very good quality and protein levels, along with significant resistance to wheat streak mosaic virus, making it a promising choice for Kansas wheat producers.

The introduction of these varieties underscores the commitment of K-State’s wheat breeding program to innovation and excellence. Supported by entities like the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Crop Improvement Association, and Kansas Wheat Alliance, the program aims to provide Kansas wheat farmers with the best possible varieties to meet their needs and those of their customers.

The naming of KS Bill Snyder not only celebrates a sports icon but also symbolizes the bridge between Kansas agriculture and community spirit, as emphasized by Coach Snyder's own words about the special nature of Kansas State people.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham