By Scout Nelson
The Wheat Quality Council’s 67th Annual Hard Winter Wheat Evaluation Tour kicked off on Tuesday, May 15, 2025, with approximately 67 participants from 21 U.S. states and six countries. The group traveled in 17 cars on six routes between Manhattan and Colby, Kansas, stopping every 15-20 miles to evaluate wheat fields.
Participants included flour millers and industry professionals, with six attendees sponsored by U.S. Wheat Associates from Central and South America.
During the tour, participants learned how to measure yields using a formula provided by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Each scout took yield measurements based on several samples per field, and these estimates were averaged to create final yield predictions.
The main benefit of the tour is the networking opportunities it provides, allowing Kansas farmers to engage with and influence global customers.
The tour made 196 stops across north-central, central, and northwest Kansas, extending into southern Nebraska. At Frahm Farmland in Colby, participants discussed observations with an Extension expert panel, including Romulo Lollato, Lucas Haag, and Jeannie Falk-Jones. Many scouts noted the presence of the Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus and drought conditions.
On Day 1, the calculated yield was 50.5 bushels per acre. However, northern routes showed lower yields, while southern routes were above average. Statewide, Kansas' 2025 wheat crop is forecast at 345 million bushels, with an average yield of 50 bushels per acre.
In addition to Kansas, scouts from Nebraska and Colorado contributed their estimates, with Nebraska's crop expected to be 34 million bushels and Colorado’s estimated at 65 million bushels.
The Wheat Tour 2025 continues with Day 2 traveling through southwest and south-central Kansas, where further yield assessments will be made.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat