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 Jun. 25, 2025 Source: The National Wheat Foundation news release POOLSVILLE, MD - Today, the National Wheat Foundation (NWF) hosted its fifth annual Farm Tour, welcoming Congressional staff, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) employees, and representatives from the University of Maryland. This immersive event offered attendees a firsthand look at wheat production and the essential partnerships that support American agriculture. Held at Willard Farms in Poolesville, Maryland, the tour provided participants the opportunity to explore a working farm, observe the wheat harvest in action, and hear directly from the farmers and professionals driving innovation and sustainability in agriculture. Farmer-hosts included William Willard, Scot Poffenberger, and Eric Spates, all of Poolesville, MD, and Bernard Peterson, a Kentucky wheat grower and former Chair of the National Wheat Foundation. Additional tour leaders included: Carl Schwinke, Siemer Milling Company Jeff Blackwood, CropLife America Ken Selzer, Associate Administrator, Risk Management Agency (RMA) Robert Wevodau, Farm Program Chief, Maryland FSA Suzy Daubert, State Conservationist, NRCS Kelly Nichols, Ag Agent, University of Maryland Extension A highlight of the day was a special lunchtime address by Maryland Secretary of Agriculture, Kevin Atticks, who welcomed the group and emphasized the importance of connecting policymakers with producers. "The work of the National Wheat Foundation in promoting, educating and foster growth of this vital sector of agriculture is critical to our region. I thank the leaders who attended the tour and hope the day proved beneficial in learning more about this important commodity," said Kevin Atticks, Maryland Secretary of Agriculture. "This tour serves as a living classroom," said Bernard Peterson, Kentucky wheat grower and former NWF Chairman. "It's a unique opportunity to engage with the real challenges and decisions that farmers face every day. Events like this help build understanding and lasting relationships between agriculture professionals and policymakers." Tour Objectives: Deepen understanding of wheat production, from planting to post-harvest processing Foster relationships for continued collaboration on wheat-related issues Showcase the dedication and innovation of wheat farmers across the country Explore the broad network of professionals--scientists, conservationists, agribusiness leaders--who support modern farming Highlight the careful stewardship of natural resources practiced by farms like Willard Farms and Spates Farms The National Wheat Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to all participating farmers and partners who made this year's tour possible through their time, effort, and expertise. For more information about the National Wheat Foundation Farm Tour, please visit: www.wheatfoundation.org. About the National Wheat Foundation The National Wheat Foundation was established by the industry to serve as the national center for wheat research, education and outreach. Serving our mission, the Foundation works to advance the wheat industry through strategic research, education and outreach collaborations, guided by core values of grower centeredness, integrity, honesty and trustworthiness. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization incorporated and headquartered in Washington, D.C. and managed by Anne Osborne, Executive Director who is assisted by the staff of the National Association of Wheat Growers. Tweet |
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