Washington, DC
January 5, 2006
Source:
US Wheat Associates -
Wheat Letter
According to a new comprehensive
report issued by the USDA Economic Research Service, U.S. wheat
plantings are about 30 percent lower than in the early 1980s.
Wheat demand fell due to changing domestic consumer preferences
and strong competition in export markets, according to ERS. Low
financial returns led to the substitution of competing crops for
wheat, particularly on the Plains.
The analysts also point out that "wheat area has dropped from
its high levels in the early 1980s due, in part, to changes in
Government programs," and explain the implications of the
Conservation Reserve Program and other program assistance under
the various farm acts.
The report points out that the U.S. wheat sector is facing
several challenges.
"In the future, attractive total returns (market plus
government) for other crops and modest export and domestic
demand are expected to limit wheat plantings," the analysts
state. "However, low stocks and wheat prices above $3 per bushel
will prevent a large decline in acreage."
The Wheat Backgrounder was released on December 29 and is
available on the web at
www.ers.usda.gov/publications/whs/dec05/whs05K01/whs05K01.pdf. |