2000 Hard Red Winter Crop Quality

California Wheat Commission

1240 Commerce Ave. Suite A, Woodland CA 95776-2267* (530) 661-1292* FAX: (530) 661-1332* E-Mail: info@californiawheat.org

2000 Hard Red Winter Crop Quality Report

Introduction

California’s wheat growing regions are defined by climate, value of alternative crops, and the distinct differences in variety selection. This system has led to an implied "identity preserved" program in California. For example, many buyers will specify either Yecora Rojo/Brooks, Express, or RSI-5.

Much of the wheat is planted during the months of October - December as part of a rotation program with other crops. Harvest usually begins in June. This harvest schedule makes new crop California wheat very competitive during the months of June - September.

California growers have a strong domestic milling and feed market. Export buyers must indicate an interest early in the season to assure availability.

General Characteristics. California hard red wheat varieties have low moisture and large and uniform kernel size. Because it is predominantly grown under irrigation, growers benefit from high yields and consistent quality. California wheat also contains significantly less impurities than its counterparts elsewhere.

2000 crop conditions. Overall end-use quality of the California wheat crop was very good. Bake volume, along with gluten quality & quantity were excellent. Protein content was down approximately 0.5 percent due to mild weather conditions during grain fill. Cool temperatures and mild rains promoted signs of rust in certain areas.

Data in this report. Samples for this report are collected from the California State Inspection Stations, grain handlers, and producers. This program collects data throughout the harvest season, resulting in a crop quality report that is highly representative of the crop. Grade information is provided by the California State Inspection Service under the auspices of the Federal Grain Inspection Service. Milling and end-use quality analysis was conducted by the California Wheat Commission Laboratory.