Investing In You

CLAIRE WEINZIERL | EDITOR | ILLINOIS SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION

As I move through the beginning stages of my professional career, I’ve found myself realizing that we are more than the work that we do each day, and the contributions we make over time. Day after day, Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) staff advocate for Illinois farmers, work together strategically with partner organizations, and coordinate project efforts to fulfill investments determined by the board each year.

Looking past the demands of our jobs, our team efforts add up to a much larger investment within the industry. Just as farmers have become stewards of the land, staff at ISA have taken on a stewardship role on behalf of farmers, guided by their voices and direction.

Something very special about the culture at ISA is that you’ll often hear teammates say, “I appreciate you.” Not, “I appreciate your help,” or “I appreciate your great work.” Just, “I appreciate you.” I think there’s something meaningful and sincere in those three little words that sum up our respect and admiration for each other as colleagues, our shared goals, and the farmers we serve.

You'll often find that the reason people choose to work in agriculture is because they have family ties back to the farm in one form or another, and that’s just what Illinois agriculture is; a family. Collectively, we value – and appreciate – our opportunity to belong and to give back to farmers through service and representation.

My hope as you read through this issue of Illinois Field & Bean is that you’ll find our goal is to provide you with relevant and timely information that provides a service to you. Read along to learn the Soy Envoys' top tips this growing season through ILSoyAdvisor.com and learn more about the experts behind ILSoyAdvisor who power the platform year-round.

Within these pages, you’ll also find ILSoyAdvisor’s new Carbon & Data Guidebook. Whether or not your farming operation is currently committed to a carbon or conservation program, now is an important time to take a look at how you are collecting, managing, and storing your farm data. The Guidebook covers the basics of emerging carbon and ecosystem programs, their farm data needs, and how you can better position your farm operation for any of these program opportunities.

But most importantly, I hope you take away a sense of our appreciation for the importance of the work you do on your farms each day that impacts your communities, Illinois’ economy, and the world as it’s no easy task. And for that, we appreciate you.