Developing Export Markets for Maryland's

Wheat Producers

U.S. Wheat Associates

U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) is the export market development organization for the U.S. wheat industry promoting the reliability, quality and value of all six U.S. wheat classes to wheat buyers, millers, bakers, food processors and government officials in more than 100 countries around the world.

Maryland primarily produces Soft Red Winter Wheat (SRW) and USW works to demonstrate the functional value and performance of flour milled from soft red winter (SRW) wheat to foreign buyers. SRW exports for 2020/21 totaled about 67.6 million bushels.

MGPUB's support of USW is based on production in Maryland. Support for 2022 is $47,700.

National Association of Wheat Growers

Membership in the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) allows the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board to leverage its investment with other state wheat organizations to stay current on federal policy issues impacting wheat growers. Joining with 19 other NAWG-affiliated state associations expands the reach of MGPUB.

On behalf of its state association members, NAWG works on a variety of topics including research and trade. Additionally, membership in NAWG grants the MGPUB a presence on its board of directors. Currently, Eric Spates is serving as Maryland's delegate and has the opportunity to shape how and where NAWG sets their priorities. Eric has also welcomed tours to his farm in Howard County to showcase U.S. wheat production.

The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board provided $11,000 to the 2022-2023 fiscal year NAWG dues.