1999 Hard Red Winter Crop Quality

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1999 Hard Red Winter Crop Quality Report

Introduction

California hard 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.

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’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. In the past, Anza-type wheat was an option, though very little is produced presently.

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

1999 crop conditions. Although Hard Red wheat plantings were down 2% from 1998, growing conditions for 1999 were very good. Crop performance was much better in 1999 than in 1998, when excessive rainfall resulted in high disease pressure. Yields were up 30%, resulting in a 25% overall production increase from 1998. While a cool spring delayed harvest, end-use quality was excellent.

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.