3 minute read
We Keep Making it Better!
We hear a lot about agriculture’s dedication to constant innovation. And though the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is committed to staying ahead of developing trends, technological advancements and improvements in communication, I am always impressed by the breakneck speed of innovation across Illinois’ soybean farms. It's visible in the way farmers are growing more soybeans to meet the demand (USDA is forecasting 300,000 more soybean acres this year) and in the practices they are adding and expanding to care for the land in the process.
Every growing season, many Illinois soybean farmers adopt new tactics and technology that propel them toward optimized production. Their definition of a successful growing season is an ever-moving target; even when field practices work to perfection, next season there will be ways to improve.
At ISA, we are dedicated to helping farmers reach a point of optimized satisfaction, knowing that each crop is being produced with the best products, practices and inputs available. I like to say, "We keep making it better." Our Soybean Production Team, led by Abigail Peterson, CCA, remains vigilant and anticipates agronomic support needs--a core area of importance to our farmers. Each season, through research and collaboration, we pursue new ways to respond to pests and adverse conditions that threaten soybean yields. Through ongoing research and proactive measures, our skilled agronomists collaborate with farmers to develop strategies that mitigate risks and ensure sustainable crop production.
This comprehensive approach underscores our dedication to supporting farmers through every challenge they face. It's why we must continue to explore not only the agronomic frontiers but also the changing conditions in the marketplace and the world of ag tech.
For example, we are leading the charge in the biodiesel industry. ISA is actively advancing sustainable practices with the implementation of a bipartisan B20 bill, which encourages the use of higher blends of biodiesel. This landmark statute, which took effect on April 1, represents a significant milestone for Illinois soybean farmers and the state's environment. ISA Chairman Ron Kindred describes it as a law that benefits all Illinoisians and underscores the state's commitment to renewable fuels leadership.
We’re also proud to announce the launch of the new ISA Soy Innovation Center. Work there not only enhances our environmental profile but also supports the commercialization and expansion of sustainable, soy-based products. Todd Main, Director of Market Development for ISA, emphasizes our state's leading role in sustainable innovations. He is hopeful the Soy Innovation Center will contribute to the burgeoning effort to bring sustainable technologies to market.
As Illinois farmers confront mercurial challenges like unpredictable weather and supply chain issues, we will continue to sift through new advancements on both the supply and demand ends of the marketplace. ISA is currently in project-planning season. This process helps the Board and Staff select projects and programs that will maximize value for Illinois soybean farmers while strategically aligning our focus areas with measurable goals and outcomes. In doing so, our farmers will be empowered to make informed decisions about what optimization looks like on their farms. They consistently remind us that innovation is the practical application of creativity plus action.
And that it’s our people who make up the Illinois difference... and keep making it better.
