a focus on
both domestic and export demand expansion.
“Wheat in America is at a
crossroads,” said Daren Coppock, National Association of Wheat
Growers CEO. “Wheat’s share of American field crop receipts has
fallen from 20 percent in the 1980s to about 11 percent now.
This tide can be turned, but it will require wheat industry
cooperation and action.”
“Wheat millers, growers and
the entire wheat chain must jointly address these challenges so
the wheat milling industry can continue to have access to an
abundant, safe supply of grain to produce healthful, nutritious
products for customers,” said Betsy Faga, president of the North
American Millers’ Association.
“The international
marketplace for wheat is extremely competitive,” said U.S. Wheat
Associates President Alan T. Tracy. “In order for us to maintain
our position as the leading exporter, we need to take steps to
ensure a steady domestic supply. It must make good economic
sense for our farmers to plant more wheat."
“U.S. wheat growers play a
vital role in feeding the world,” said Barbara Spangler, WETEC
executive director. “This document is a step toward ensuring
that people around the world don’t go hungry.”
The paper was jointly
authored by
the National Association of
Wheat Growers, the
North American Millers’
Association, U.S. Wheat
Associates and the Wheat
Export Trade Education Committee. It will be followed up by
a meeting of wheat industry representatives in late 2006.
