Wheat harvest in Kansas continues, with yields and protein levels remain generally average.

 

That's according to the Kansas Wheat Commission, which reports that Kansas wheat farmers are facing significant challenges this year, including the widespread impact of wheat streak mosaic virus and related diseases, drought during the growing season and scattered rainfall during harvest.

 

Mike McClellan, who farms in Rooks County with his nephew Cade Beesley, started harvest about five days ago. With about two-thirds left to cut, they’re making steady progress.

 

Yields have been above average compared to the past three years and are landing around average overall. Protein levels are ranging from 11.5 to 15.5 percent, and test weights on their better fields, those not hit by wheat streak mosaic virus, have been coming in at 58 to 60 pounds per bushel.

 

Jackson Hoelker with Skyland Grain in Kingman County says harvest is nearly a month in, with cutting beginning the first week of June. Yields are coming in between 50 and 55 bushels per acre. Protein levels range from 10.5 to 11.5 percent, and test weights, which began around 60 to 63 pounds, have dropped slightly and are now closer to 58. Hoelker estimates harvest is 85 to 90 percent complete in his area.