Now is the Time to Learn about Harvest Season in Western Kansas

September 11, 2024

Western Kansas is a prominent agricultural hub with a significant impact on the nation’s food production. That’s why harvest season is key to its ongoing success. The state’s vast expanse of fertile land and diverse crops make it a key contributor to the agricultural landscape of the country.

Kansas is often referred to as the “Breadbasket of America” due to its substantial production of wheat, which is essential for bread and other food products. In fact, the entire state is known for wheat cultivation and that’s why it earned the nickname “the Wheat State.”

In addition to wheat, the state cultivates a wide range of crops, including corn, soybeans, sorghum and sunflowers. The fertile soil, favorable climate and advanced farming techniques have made Kansas a leader in crop production. Western Kansas, in particular, is known for its extensive wheat cultivation.

According to the USDA State Agricultural Review, Kansas had the following production statistics in 2023:

Kansas's 2023 corn production is forecast at 632 million bushels, up 24% from the previous year's production
Sorghum for grain production in Kansas was forecast at 223 million bushels, up 111% from the previous year.
Kansas's soybean production was at 147 million bushels, up 11% from 2022.
Winter wheat production was forecast at 208 million bushels, down 15% from last year.
Cotton production was at 250,000 bales, up 51% from last year.
Oat production was forecast to be 1.72 million bushels, up 67% from 2022.
Alfalfa hay production was 1.84 million tons, down 10% last year.

When it’s harvest time in Western Kansas, work picks up

The completion of harvesting marks the end of the Western Kansas growing season or the growing cycle for a particular crop. On smaller farms with minimal mechanization, harvesting is the most labor-intensive activity of the growing season. On large mechanized farms, harvesting uses farm machinery, such as the combine harvester.

Early season harvesting ensures a higher level of freshness, flavor, and nutritional value in crops. Additionally, it allows Western Kansas farmers to meet market demands ahead of their competitors and potentially command higher prices.

Wheat harvest in Kansas typically begins in early- to mid-June and is complete by mid-July. It begins in the south-central part of the state and moves north and west. Most corn in Kansas is harvested in September and October. In Kansas, soybeans typically are planted in April and May, then harvested in September and October.

For those who don’t make a living by farming, you may not understand how important harvesting is. “Harvest is like our Super Bowl,” Paige Clawson says. She and her husband, Kurtis, farm in Haskell County in southwest Kansas. She explains a good harvest can make or break a year’s worth of work.

Agriculture is important to Kansas and Kansas is important to America

Kansas’s commitment to innovation and technology has allowed its farmers to continually adapt and thrive in a changing agricultural landscape. The state’s agricultural sector not only sustains the local economy but also significantly contributes to the nation’s food security. Overall, Kansas stands as a cornerstone of American agriculture, with a legacy deeply rooted in its land, culture, and economic vitality.

Farming has long been the backbone of Kansas’s economy, consistently contributing significantly to the state’s gross domestic product (GDP).
The state’s diverse agricultural activities, from crop cultivation to livestock production, generate substantial revenue and employment opportunities.
Agricultural exports, particularly wheat, corn and beef, play a vital role in trade, further boosting the state’s economy.
Wheat from Kansas farms is milled into flour and used in bread, pasta and various other food products consumed across the country.
Kansas’s economy benefits from the stability provided by the agricultural sector, which often performs well even during economic downturns.
The income generated by farming supports not only the agricultural community but also businesses in related sectors such as agribusiness, transportation and food processing.

Farm-to-Table is a big deal in Western Kansas

In the past, food was often mass-produced and shipped long distances, resulting in a loss of flavor, nutrient value, and connection to the land. However, the Farm-to-Table movement reverses this trend by encouraging restaurants to source their ingredients from local farmers and purveyors. This not only ensures fresher and more flavorful food but also supports the local agricultural community.

Farm to table, farm to fork, locally sourced…whatever you call it, know that it will be fresh, local, and keep you wanting more. Kansas has numerous restaurants and farms that let you enjoy some of the best-sourced ingredients. Below are some of our most popular destinations for visitors to seek after locally grown products in Kansas.

Farmer’s markets are growing in Western Kansas

Farmers’ markets and direct-to-consumer opportunities are growing across the state and continue to be an important source of fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy and other value-added agricultural products from small towns to large metropolitan areas.

In 2024, over 111 farmers' markets were registered with the Kansas Department of Agriculture's Central Registration of Farmers' Markets.

Farming associations and cooperatives

Farming associations and cooperatives in Kansas are essential components of the agricultural community, representing the interests of farmers, promoting sustainable practices, providing educational resources and offering various forms of support. Here are some notable farming associations and cooperatives in Kansas:

These farming associations and cooperatives serve as vital resources for Kansas farmers, helping them address challenges, access markets, stay informed about industry developments and advocate for policies that support their interests. They also contribute to the overall sustainability and success of the state’s agricultural sector.

Other October crop harvests

October in Kansas is synonymous with the heart of fall, and the harvest reflects the season’s richness. The fruit-picking dates in Kansas prominently feature apples in various varieties, from tart Granny Smiths to sweet Honeycrisps. Pears continue their season, and persimmons, with their unique flavor, start to make an appearance. The last grapes are also harvested this month.

The vegetable picking chart in Kansas features a strong presence of root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, turnips, and parsnips. Leafy greens like kale, collards, and Swiss chard thrive in cooler temperatures, while the last bell peppers and tomatoes are harvested before the first frost.

Go west and go big

Western Kansas is an incredible place to live, work and start a business. At WKREDA, we focus on issues that affect the economic vitality of our 55 communities. Our committees work on solving problems that impact the daily lives of Kansas residents, which includes providing support to local businesses. To learn more, visit https://www.wkreda.com.