Despite Challenges From Weather, 2021 A Good Year For Idaho Barley

The Idaho Barley Commission is looking back at 2021 as a year of The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. Barley growers had to deal with a dry and windy spring, which was less than ideal for planting. And those struggles continue to the record heat and drought of this summer. The Barley Commission’s Laura Wilder said the drought led to a 21% drop in production, but despite that, the Gem state crop was still strong.

"Overall, Idaho kept its #1 spot in U.S. barley production, and increased that to 37% of the nation's barley crop," said Wilder. "So, barley is still very solid and very important to Idaho."

Wilder noted there were some quality issues this season, but nothing as severe as the USDA’s expectation earlier this year.

Another good story for Idaho barley was the ribbon cutting on the Scoular barley protein facility in Jerome. That plant is expected to begin commercial production in January for the aquaculture and pet food markets. And Wilder noted the plant is expected to increase barley acres statewide by 35,000. Also in 2022, growers should enjoy an increase in contract prices for barley of up to 40%.

However, Wilder said growers will be squeezed by higher input costs.

"The overall profitability is something that we're concerned about as growers face increasing costs for equipment, for fuel, or fertilizers in particular."

Wilder added snowfall for the year is expected to be substantial, which would replenish reservoirs, ensuring water for growers in the upcoming season.

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