08/30/2008

Associated Press

Late August rains have triggered sprout damage in Willamette Valley wheat.

Oregon State University Extension agent Mark Mellbye estimates that more than 90 percent of the 120,000 acres of wheat planted in the valley this year has been harvested. But growers who left wheat standing while they brought in grass seed are in line to lose some money.

When buying wheat, grain companies test for quality characteristics, such as protein and moisture content, and look for sprout damage.

Mellbye told the Capital Press newspaper that some growers might be better off holding onto their wheat and waiting for it to dry before selling. Also, grain companies can lower quality standards as a season goes along, depending on supply and demand.