Texas Wheat implements small grain silage assessment
The Texas Wheat Producers board will implement the small grain silage assessment for the 2026 harvest, following approval by Texas farmers in a 2025 referendum. The assessment reflects evolving production practices and growing demand for forage within the industry.
The board has set the assessment rate at 16 cents per ton for the 2026 crop year. As required by law, the assessment will apply to wheat and small grains harvested for silage and will be deducted at the first point of sale.
“Before the referendum, the board’s funding came solely from grain production, but there was a clear need for research and investment in small grain silage production,” said Scott Born, a farmer from Ferris and chairman of the Texas Wheat Producers board. “The new assessment will allow the board to expand its work and invest in programs that will benefit farmers targeting forage and silage production.”
Funds generated through the assessment will primarily support research aimed at improving silage production, understanding harvest timing and quality and enhancing profitability for Texas farmers. In February, the board approved financial support for the purchase of a silage header for Texas A&M AgriLife Research. The equipment will be used in the High Plains agronomy program to increase capabilities in the region for small grain silage research.
The board is currently funding research to evaluate yield tradeoffs in wheat and triticale across different maturity stages and harvest heights. The results will help producers make more informed management decisions based on forage quality and tonnage goals. Additional research projects are expected to be funded in the upcoming fiscal year.
“Forage production has expanded throughout the Texas High Plains,” said Landon Friemel, a farmer in Deaf Smith County and a Texas Wheat Producers board director. “As a silage producer, it is encouraging to see the research opportunities that will help us create more value for farmers and a better product for the livestock industry.”
The small grain silage assessment represents the board’s continued commitment to investing in practical research and tools that strengthen the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of Texas small grains production.
To find more information about the silage checkoff or board activities, visit https://texaswheat.org.
