Wheat harvest underway in south-central Kansas

Combines are now rolling in the southern part of Kansas, including Sedgwick County, after barely getting started last week. Harvest began earlier than normal this year because the wheat matured early and farmers are trying to beat upcoming storms.

Manhattan-based Kansas Wheat says yields are better than expected in the area. Although the first quarter of the year was very dry, recent rainfall has helped with grain fill, and this year’s crop is looking to be much better than last year’s dismal haul. Initial reports of test weights are 62-to-63 pounds per bushel, and proteins are averaging 11-to-12%.

USDA/NASS estimated the crop at nearly 268 million bushels in its May 1 forecast. Last year’s Kansas wheat harvest resulted in 201 million bushels, with abandonment at 29%, the highest since 1951.

Wheat crop conditions in Kansas as of June 2 were 34% poor-to-very poor, and 34% good-to excellent. Mature was 25%, well ahead of 1% both last year and average.

Harvest progresses during the weekend, although scattered rains, thunderstorms, wind and hail are in the forecast.

The 2024 Harvest Reports are produced by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, and the Kansas Cooperative Council.