WASHINGTON — The American Bakers Association announced it will hold a “The Future of Wheat” panel April 16 during its 2012 Annual Convention in Scottsdale, Ariz.

“Although bakers face no shortage of important issues on a day-to-day basis, none are more important than making sure the industry has a clear, sustainable plan to continue to provide wholesome and affordable products to American families into the future,” said Robb MacKie, president and chief executive officer of the A.B.A. “The wheat panel at this year’s convention will look 25 years down the road to assess what tools and research will be necessary to meet our industry’s collective goals.”

The A.B.A. said all segments of the baking and wheat industry will be represented on the panel, including Dana Peterson from the National Association of Wheat Growers; Larry Marcucci of Alpha Baking; and agriculture expert Bill Lapp. John Miller, president and c.e.o. of Miller Milling, will moderate.

“My hope is that this event will be the start of a lively discussion both at convention and beyond,” Mr. MacKie said. “As all bakers know, high protein wheat is under extreme stress due to high global demand, shrinking acreage, and virtually non-existent research resources. I encourage all A.B.A. members to be a part of this very timely discussion — made even more so as we stare down next year’s farm bill.”

More information on the conference may be found at www.americanbakers.org.