By Scout Nelson
The Kansas wheat harvest is moving steadily across the state, even as farmers face several weather-related challenges. This update marks day 6 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, supported by key agricultural organizations in the state.
Farmers have experienced delays due to scattered thunderstorms and unpredictable weather. While some producers have already completed harvest, others continue working through difficult conditions.
Derek Sawyer, a farmer from McPherson County, shared his experience after finishing harvest on June 15. “We started cutting but had to stop several times, so we didn’t take our first load in until June 5,” said Sawyer. “Yields were significantly lower compared to last year, but still better than I expected.”
He also reported that protein levels were lower than usual, with top-performing wheat varieties including AP Prolific and KS Providence. Reflecting past seasons, Sawyer added, “I believe in 2012 we had an early finish like this; we started earlier than we did this year,” said Sawyer. “We may have been finished by the first week of June. This year was progressing as quickly as it did in 2012, but the rains and the cooler temperatures at the end of May slowed the progress.”
In Saline County, Trenton Olson began harvesting on June 5 but faced strong storms and delays. “This year is unique in the way that we’re out here dealing with unprecedented circumstances,” Olson said. “We didn’t get the weather we needed in the spring, and now we’re not getting the weather we need to get grain into the bin.”
Fields in this area showed wide variation, producing between five and 40 bushels per acre. Despite hail damage and strong winds, Olson remains hopeful. “Despite all the challenges that we’ve gone through, wheat is still important,” said Olson. “It’s an important aspect of our food chain, and we need to keep getting acres planted despite all of the frustrations with it this year.”
In Hamilton County, about half of the harvest is complete. Ellie Hatcher noted, “At our location, I’d say we are in the middle of harvest. We do have some producers wrapping up.” She also explained, “Between drought and an early May freeze, our yields suffered,” said Hatcher.
Overall, the Kansas wheat harvest continues with determination, despite difficult weather and reduced yields. Farmers are working hard to complete the season successfully.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat, Weather