White Heads

Jul 20, 2017

By Jochum Wiersma

Is not the reincarnation of the Detroit rock due the White Stripes but a phenomenon that often can be seen this time of year in wheat fields are they are starting to ripen. The causes of these premature ripened heads are varied and a diagnostic key can be found here.

People of commented that especially the wheat stem maggot is more prevalent this year and my travels to the different field trials across the state confirm this. The seemingly high numbers of wheat stem maggot may be related to the mild winter conditions. Several insect pests that overwinter in Minnesota have had comparatively high and early populations this year.

Incidence will generally be worse along field edges and taper off as you walk further into the field.

Source: umn.edu

Video: Agriculture Secretary Rollins Speaks at American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim

One of the highlights at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California, was an address by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. During her remarks, she thanked America’s farmers and ranchers and said the Trump Administration is fully aware that food security is national security.

She also acknowledged the challenging times in Farm Country with low commodity prices and high input costs and said that’s why the President stepped in to help with the recent Bridge Assistance Program.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck says that Farm Bureau members are appreciative of the help and looks forward to working with the American Farm Bureau Federation and its presence in Washington, DC to keep farmers and ranchers in business.

Secretary Rollins said the Trump Administration is also committed to helping ranchers build back America’s cattle herd while also providing more high-quality U.S. beef at the meat case for consumers.

And she also announced more assistance for specialty crop producers who only received a fraction of the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA).

It’s important to note that producers who qualify for Farmer Bridge Assistance can expect the Farm Service Agency to start issuing payments in late February. For more information, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center.