Wheat Disease Update for May 18, 2023

May 19, 2023

By Stephen Wegulo

A survey of wheat fields on May 17 in south-central and southeast Nebraska found no diseases in the fields visited (Figure 1). Dry conditions prevailed in the surveyed fields and wheat plants were only about a foot tall or shorter in the boot or early heading stages. Dry conditions during planting last fall resulted in poor emergence and vigor. As result, winter kill was severe in some fields. Inadequate soil moisture last fall and dry weather this growing season have resulted in a poor wheat crop in dryland fields.

A report from Kansas on May 9 indicated that trace levels of stripe rust had been observed in irrigated fields in the south-central region of the state. However, due to dry weather conditions, the risk of stripe rust was considered to be very low.

Source : unl.edu

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.