The National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) attended the Edgar S. McFadden inaugural Symposium on Wheat Improvement this week honoring Edgar S. McFadden and other global leaders in wheat research.

NAWG was well represented at the inaugural event with Gordon Stoner, NAWG second vice president and Jim Palmer, NAWG CEO both taking part in the schedule of events. Stoner, a wheat farmer from Outlook, Mont. discussed the unique nature of wheat and the importance of increased wheat research funding. Palmer participated in a panel discussion with wheat leaders and experts on policy and international trade.

“Wheat accounts for 20 percent of caloric intake for people around the world, and as the world population continues to increase so will demand for wheat. We need to meet this demand. Increased and intensified wheat research is the first step in doing that,” commented Stoner.

The Symposium was held to honor Edgar McFadden and his wheat research breakthrough in conferring genetic resistance to stem rust at South Dakota State University (SDSU) in Brooking, S.D.

To recognize the important contribution of McFadden and to continue his legacy, SDSU has established the Edgar S. McFadden Endowment for Wheat Improvement to continue research on new varieties and other technologies that serve wheat producers.

“The farmer leadership of NAWG and the National Wheat Foundation (NWF) are committed to working with wheat industry stakeholders to expand the industry,” stated Palmer. A few short years ago NAWG, NWF, U.S. Wheat Associates, the North American Millers Association and the American Bakers Association with the support from industry started a collaborative group in the creation of the Wheat Innovation Alliance (WIA). WIA is committed to responsibly advancing innovation in wheat production to help grow more and better wheat.”

Click here for more information on the Symposium.