In October 2007 scientists and researchers met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and established an early warning system to check the spread of stem rust. A survey system was then set up that would help researchers track and identify the spread of the fungus
The Bill Gates Foundation has given $26.8 million U. S Dollars to Cornell University for a new global project to combat this fungus: wheat (stem) rust disease, which specialists say poses a threat to the world’s food security.
Fungus is not the only issue at hand in the wheat and grain crisis. By our own choices and thirst for ‘fuel’ we have slashed production of edible grains considerably.
On Sunday, March 23, 2008, the head of Nestle, the largest food and beverage company in the world, warned that the growing use of crops such as wheat and corn to make biofuels is putting world food supplies in peril. While the competition is driving up the price of maize, soya and wheat, land for cultivation is becoming rare and water sources are also under threat, chairman and chief executive Peter Brabeck-Letmathe said.
While there is disagreement with such statements among those in support of alternate fuel sources, there is one statement that I believe we could all agree upon. It is on this one statement of fact that we must base where our priorities fall in the battle for renewable energy vs. edible wheat and grain crops: A society can live without automobile fuel, our history has proven that, but a society cannot live without food.
Now prioritize.
Popular Questions
Why are wheat and grain crops in crisis?
Wheat and grain crops are in crisis because drought, heat, flooding, soil degradation, pests, and plant diseases can reduce yields and damage grain quality. Higher fuel, fertilizer, labor, and transportation costs add pressure on farmers and food systems. Conflicts and trade disruptions can also make supplies less reliable and prices more volatile.
How is climate change worsening the crisis in wheat and grain crops?
Rising temperatures can shorten the growing season, increase water loss, and reduce wheat yields during flowering and grain filling. More frequent droughts and intense storms create difficult conditions for planting and harvesting. Farmers can respond by improving soil moisture, choosing heat- or drought-tolerant varieties, adjusting planting dates, and using efficient irrigation where water is available.
What can farmers do to protect wheat and grain crops in crisis conditions?
Farmers can reduce risk by rotating crops, planting disease-resistant varieties, testing soil, and applying fertilizer according to crop needs. Conservation tillage, cover crops, residue management, and targeted irrigation can improve soil structure and conserve moisture. Regular field scouting also helps identify weeds, insects, and diseases before they cause extensive losses.
How can governments and consumers help address the wheat and grain crops crisis?
Governments can support research, crop insurance, emergency financing, water management, storage infrastructure, and reliable market information. Stronger seed systems and regional grain reserves can help communities manage poor harvests and supply interruptions. Consumers can reduce food waste, support resilient agricultural producers, and choose staple foods with more transparent and sustainable supply chains.
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