Area wheat harvest in full swing

CHENEY – The Palouse region is buzzing with activity as combines move through fields harvesting wheat.

More than half of the state's winter wheat and 20% of its spring wheat has already been harvested this month.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is predicting a strong yield this year, estimating an average to above-average harvest of around 146 million bushels.

This forecast brings some relief to farmers, who have struggled with drought, extreme heat and low yields in recent years.

Despite the promising harvest, farmers are facing new challenges, USDA officials said.

Wheat prices have fallen...