Securing the Future of Oregon Wheat

Wheat has long been a foundation of Oregon agriculture and rural communities, especially in Umatilla County, where wheat production supports farm families, local businesses, and the regional economy. Growing up on the Hansell family farm, I have seen firsthand how important wheat is not only as a crop, but as a way of life that has been passed down through generations.

Today, wheat producers face increasing challenges, including rising input costs, market volatility, unpredictable weather, and pressure to adopt new technology. Precision agriculture and improved seed genetics have made farming more efficient, but they also require significant financial investment. For family farms, balancing innovation with financial risk is an ongoing challenge that directly impacts long-term sustainability.

A concern that I have is the future of family-owned farms. When I go on drives with my dad, he always points out which family owns which piece of land. But as time goes on, I have noticed these farms are switching hands often, and more often than not bought by big corporations like AgriNorthwest. As farmers age, fewer young people are prepared or willing to take over operations. So land is sold or consolidated into larger operations. Once farmland leaves family ownership, it rarely returns. I believe that keeping land in family hands is essential for maintaining food security, preserving rural communities, and protecting Oregon’s agricultural heritage.

I plan to return to my family’s wheat operation in Umatilla County after college and to play an active role in its future. By continuing my education, I hope to gain knowledge in farm management, technology, and decision-making that will allow our operation to adapt to changing markets and environmental conditions. Education will help me bring new ideas back to the farm while respecting the practices that have sustained it for generations.

The Oregon Wheat Foundation plays a vital role in supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders. By investing in students who are committed to agriculture, the Foundation helps ensure that Oregon wheat remains strong, competitive, and sustainable.

2026 Scholarship Essay: Hunter Hansell