Through the soy checkoff, U.S. soybean farmers are investing in new production practices to continuously improve their sustainability while protecting the air, water and soil for generations to come.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024 | VOL. 17, NO. 4
In Indiana, election brings new governor and senator
In the race for the U.S. Senate, U.S. Rep. Jim Banks (R-Dist. 3) is now U.S. Sen.-elect Jim Banks. In the race for governor, U.S. Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) is now Indiana Gov.-elect Mike Braun.
15
Conservation practices lower costs and boost yields
Delaware County farmer Joe Hamilton has seen a positive impact since planting cover crops and using no-till practices. His farm is 100 percent no-till with cover crops on 100 percent of his acres.
26 High oleic soybean oil performs for area sports fans
ISA promotes the benefits of high oleic soybean oil and believes working with venues such as Lucas Oil Stadium and Gainbridge Fieldhouse is an excellent way to build demand for these soybeans.
34 Indiana corn, soybeans finding markets in Vietnam
With a population of 100 million people and a growing middle class that wants higher levels of animal protein, Vietnam is providing market opportunities for Indiana corn and soybean farmers.
42 About the cover:
Decatur County farmer Tim Gauck poses on his farm along with his wife, Christy. Gauck is the president of the Indiana Corn Marketing Council, the state’s corn checkoff program. He and his family use a vision statement to help them make decisions about the farm.
(Amy Kelley photo)
Chair
ISA Membership & Policy Committee
Vice Chair
Joseph Stoller, Bremen / D1 Dylan Christopher, Brookston / D1
Directors
Allen Buchanan, Fowler / D1 Mark Legan, Coatesville / D3
Kevin Kelley, Brookston / D1 Derika Lynam-Spaetti, Richland / D3
John Peters, Monticello / D1 Gary McDaniel, Boonville / D3
Denise Scarborough, LaCrosse / D1 Jason Misiniec, Bicknell / D3
C.J. Chalfant, Hartford City / D2 Larry Rusch, Vincennes / D3
Carey McKibben, LaGrange / D2 Roger Bommer, Brookville / D4
Steve Phares, Albion / D2 Kevin Burbrink, Seymour / D4
Jenna Scott, Muncie / D2 Chris Eck, Boggstown / D4
Brian Warpup, Warren / D2 Mike Koehne, Greensburg / D4
Mark Wenning, Cambridge City / D2 Keevin Lemenager, Monrovia / D4
Kevin Cox, Brazil / D3 Roger Wenning, Greensburg / D4
President
Secretary
Chris Cherry, New Palestine / D6 J.R. Roesner, Ferdinand / D8
Vice President
Treasurer
Tyler Everett, Lebanon / D7 Joe Tuholski, LaPorte / D2
Directors
Tom Murphy, Chesterton / D1 Scott Smith, Windfall / D5
Sarah Delbecq, Auburn / D3 Tyler Pottschmidt, Crothersville / D9 Alan Dunn, Michigantown / D4
Staff Credits
Editor / Dave Blower Jr. dblower@indianasoybean.com
Indiana Corn & Soybean Post® is published six times per year by the Indiana Soybean Alliance and the Indiana Corn Growers Association.
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Throughout many seasons of change, policy, checkoff work is still constant
WJoe Stoller Chair
ISA
Membership and
Policy Committee
e enjoyed very good weather this season for harvest on our farm in Marshall County. I know of many farmers who are finished or nearly finished harvesting by mid-November. This is ahead of schedule for a typical year. This is a welcomed change.
To Become A Member
The only thing that is constant in the world is change. Think about all of the changes that have happened recently. We had seasonal changes in the weather. We changed many of our elected officials that we sent to Washington, D.C. or Indianapolis.
When I first decided to run for a position on the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA) board, I wanted to make sure that the money I was paying into the state’s checkoff program was really helping farmers. For those who are not working on the board or with the ISA staff, it can be difficult to understand all that the checkoff does for farmers.
What I’d like to do is to explain what I’ve learned about the checkoff during my years on the board. I also want to tell you about how ISA’s Membership and Policy Committee (M&P), the state’s soybean policy group, works with state and federal lawmakers to clear the path for checkoff work.
Everyone who sells a bushel of soybeans in Indiana pays the soybean checkoff. Some of this money goes to the national checkoff program, the United Soybean Board (USB), and the rest stays in the state. The ISA board has decided to invest in many checkoff-related partners that help make our crop more valuable. Some of these partners include the U.S. Soybean Export
Council (USSEC), the Soy Transportation Coalition (STC), the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) and the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council (USAPEEC).
I have personally reviewed many projects that ISA, USB and these other partners take care of on a daily basis. The STC works diligently to make sure that we can efficiently move our crops by road, by rail or by river to our customers. With USAPEEC and USMEF, we boost the value of Indiana soybeans by exporting them as a feedsource through many livestock products. And USSEC has boots on the ground in countries across the world creating a preference for U.S. Soy.
The committee that I chair, M&P – not funded with checkoff dollars works with state and federal lawmakers to make sure that government programs help the checkoff’s goals. Government projects such as the Foreign Market Development (FMD) program and the Market Access Program (MAP) help our export goals. These programs do not exist without members of M&P lobbying lawmakers.
Another example is the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which helps keep our inland waterway system healthy and an inexpensive way to ship soybeans.
Join us as we work to boost the value of Indiana soybeans by encouraging legislation that breaks down barriers to success. If you haven’t yet joined M&P, contact ISA Industry Affairs Outreach Manager Khyla Goodman with any questions by email at kgoodman@indianasoybean.com.
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With harvest behind us, our attention turns to state and federal policy goals
TChris Cherry President Indiana Corn Growers Association
he 2024 harvest season went by as one of the smoothest in many years – although there were some unique challenges. The soybean dilemma brought us the decision of whether to continue cutting soybeans at 8 percent moisture or to wait for a rain that just wasn’t coming. Corn harvest was also unique. We harvested corn at 13 percent moisture while still producing good yields.
Harvest is always a nice way to wrap up the year and to think of the many blessings that we have as Hoosier farmers. Prices are obviously the one thing that we can’t control and bring us some of the greatest stress levels. Corn and soybean prices are hovering at five-year lows and that brings high levels of anxiety and uncertainty in these turbulent times.
Now that harvest is behind us, we can now put our focus back on getting things accomplished for fellow Indiana farmers. Year round E15, the farm bill and sustainable aviation fuel continue to be at the forefront of our minds and discussions.
The results in the November election bring many changes in state and federal leadership. We obviously will have a change in the White House; but within Indiana, we will have a new governor, U.S. senator and three new U.S. House members.
We are hard at work getting meetings set up with the new officeholders and staff to bring them up to speed on Indiana corn farmer priorities. No matter who is in
office, ICGA farmer-leaders and staff will be there to advance our priorities.
I serve on the Biofuels Action Team with the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), and our team is working hard to generate more opportunities to burn our product in all types of fuel tanks. The Biofuels Action team consists of individuals from almost all of the states that make up the NCGA.
Although geographically we may face different issues as farmers, when we get together on this team, we are certainly pulling the rope in the same direction. It’s been a unique opportunity to meet and become friends with other farmers across the country.
We continue to work with our great Hoosier leaders in the legislature to get things done.
We are thankful for all of those that are members of the Indiana Corn Growers Association. Currently, we have about 800 members across the State of Indiana, but there are about 20,000 farmers that we are representing. We are continuously trying to grow our membership. So, if you know of someone who should be a member but isn’t, don’t be afraid to send them our way.
Khyla Goodman is ICGA’s Industry Outreach Manager, and she’s the person you want to talk to when it comes to becoming a member. You can reach Khyla by email at kgoodman@incorn.org.
The Indiana Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is seeking Indiana corn farmers interested in serving on its Board of Directors.
ICGA is the public policy voice for Indiana corn growers representing farmers’ concerns at the local, state and national levels. The ICGA board includes nine directors from nine districts. The farmer-elected directors serve three-year terms. In 2025, elections will take place in these three districts:
• District 2. includes all of St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall, Starke, Fulton, Pulaski, Miami, Wabash, and parts of Cass, Kosciusko and LaPorte counties.
• District 5. includes all of Delaware, Tipton, Madison, Grant, Hamilton, and parts of Howard County.
• District 8. includes all of Vermillion, Parke, Vigo, Clay, Owen, Greene, Sullivan, Knox, Daviess, Martin, Gibson, Pike, Dubois, Posey, Vanderburgh, Warrick, Spencer, Perry, Orange, Crawford and part of Fountain counties.
To learn more or to apply by the Jan. 31 deadline for candidate, scan the QR code. Anyone with questions should contact Amber Myers at amyers@indianacorn.org.
What does the board do?
• Manages and conducts the business of the Indiana Corn Growers Association.
• Upholds certain standards of conduct including duty of care, duty of loyalty, duty of obedience, and duty of transparency.
• Attends quarterly board meetings (typically held in November, February, June and August). These meetings are required and are one day in length. Most meetings will be held at the ICGA office in Indianapolis.
• Participates in policy events, works with the media, hosts legislative meetings, represents ICGA at the statehouse or at the national level.
Eligibility Requirements
• A dues-paying producer member in good standing with ICGA
• A producer of corn as an owner, manager or operator
• A resident of the district which you seek to represent
To become a dues-paying member go to incornandsoy.org/membership Contact Khyla Goodman at kgoodman@indianacorn.org with any membership questions.
NCGA focused on advancing farmer priorities in new legislative landscape
BY BROOKE S. APPLETON Vice President of Public Policy, National Corn Growers Association
The Nov. 5 election provided a clearer picture of what the next couple of years will look like in Washington. With an overwhelming majority of the votes counted, we are preparing to swear in President-Elect Donald Trump and a new Republican-controlled Congress in January.
The changes in Washington will be top-down. We will have new leadership at all the federal agencies, including those that oversee important issues for farmers, like the U.S. Department of Agriculture. While nominations for leadership roles are coming in quickly, at this writing, we do not know who will be nominated as secretary of USDA.
With our growers facing tough economic headwinds, NCGA and corn grower leaders are already working hard to shape the coming policy landscape. Our short-term focus is to advance key priorities during the waning weeks of 2024, in which there are fewer than 20 joint legislative days left.
Listed below are our remaining legislative goals for this year.
Passing disaster relief
Year-round E15 access
Pushing legislation to allow for yearround consumer access to E15 is another crucial goal. EPA already granted a request from eight Midwestern governors to allow the year-round sale of fuel with a 15 percent ethanol blend, or E15, in their states beginning in 2025.
But there is legislation in Congress that would codify this agreement into law, allowing for year-round consumer access to E15 across the country. We are working to pass this legislation by year’s end. Access to higher blends of ethanol is good for the environment, saves consumers money at the pump and helps expand demand for corn ethanol. Let’s get this done.
Passing disaster relief and economic assistance for farmers is important. NCGA is supportive of efforts in Congress to provide relief to growers facing financial hardships, ranging from economic difficulties to natural disasters.
This funding is proposed in addition to and as a bridge to a strengthened farm safety net.
A robust farm bill
There is still a chance we will see a strengthened farm bill passed this year, but it’s a big hill to climb in only a few short weeks of a lameduck session.
While we are disappointed that there has not been more public progress, we are prepared to continue our advocacy until a bill that reflects corn grower priorities is signed into law.
Turning to the new year and beyond, our advocacy priorities include:
The Next Generation Fuels Act
With farm income on a steady decline, the Next Generation Fuels Act – which would modernize the liquid fuels system – is the best path forward to capture more of the light-duty vehicle market and stimulate demand for corn. That’s why it has been
and will continue to be one of our top legislative priorities. The Next Generation Fuels Act enjoys support from bipartisan members of the House and Senate. But we need additional support from members of Congress. Transitioning the gasoline supply to lower carbon, highoctane fuel – something higher blends of ethanol can provide – reduces emissions and increases vehicle fuel efficiency. Advancing this legislation will be a priority in the year ahead.
New foreign markets for corn
International trade is an important demand driver for U.S. corn, as roughly 15 percent of the U.S. corn crop is exported. NCGA continues to advocate for proactive trade negotiations that open new markets to U.S. corn. This includes reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers that could impede access to foreign markets. We look forward to working with the new administration to pursue trade agreements or other initiatives that address market access. NCGA will continue to call on Congress to increase funding in the farm bill to open new markets for U.S. agriculture products.
Sustainable aviation fuel tax credits
The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, provided tax credits for biofuel producers looking to make inroads into the aviation sector. To access the tax credits, producers must meet certain emission reduction standards. Unfortunately, the Biden administration has released a set of practice standards that growers must use for corn to qualify as a feedstock for SAF.
The bundling of these practices does not work for most of the country’s 90 million acres of corn. We look forward to working with the Trump administration to preserve this tax credit while making the requirements for accessing it more realistic.
We certainly have our work cut out for us over the coming weeks, months and years. But I am confident that we will move the needle for growers. To hear my analysis of the election and its aftermath, listen to the latest episode of NCGA’s Cobcast.
Here’s to November. Here’s to democracy. Here’s to a new legislative landscape!
Election results expected to create many policy changes in Washington
BY BLAIR SHIPP
American Soybean Association
As the 2024 election season wraps up, ASA is looking ahead to an important year for soybean farmers, including those in Indiana. With key changes in leadership across both the White House and Congress, ASA will continue to advocate for policies that support soybean growers, particularly in areas like biofuels.
The 2024 election has closed with control of the Senate and presidency passed to Republicans. The presidential race was secured by former president Donald Trump with 312 electoral votes. We will learn about key leadership positions in coming weeks, and clarity on agriculture policy and personnel may come as a new transition team is formed.
Republicans flipped four seats in the Senate — Montana, Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia — to secure a majority of 53. Given the change in majority party, ASA expects Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.) to move into the role as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee and Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) into the ranking member role in the new year.
Among ASA’s closely watched Senate Agriculture Committee members were Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio). Fischer won her election in what became a surprising battleground while Brown lost to Republican candidate Bernie Moreno.
Additionally, several House Agriculture Committee members’ races have been called. Reps. Zach Nunn (R-Iowa), Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Angie Craig (D-Minn.), Don Davis (D-N.C.), Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.), and Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.) emerged victorious in tight races. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-N.Y.) lost to his Democratic challenger, Josh Riley. Among House races not yet
called are those of Reps. Mariannette MillerMeeks (R-Iowa) and Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio).
Many House races remain outstanding and will determine control of the chamber and composition of committees.
ASA will continue to monitor developments related to election outcomes, the lame duck session expected to begin this month, and the transition of government that will officially occur in January 2025.
Challenges for biomass-based diesel
The California Air Resources Board voted 12-2 on Nov. 8, to approve amendments to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, concluding a 2.5-year process of revising the regulation. The vote represents a step in California’s ongoing efforts to reduce transportation emissions by 90 percent by 2045, but it also introduces new challenges for the soybean industry, particularly for biomass-based diesel producers.
The updated LCFS is designed to drive further adoption of low-carbon fuels in the state, with higher LCFS credit prices offering financial incentives for biofuel producers. However, these changes also include provisions that could limit market opportunities for soybean-based biofuels. ASA has been deeply involved in the LCFS revision process, submitting comments, attending workshops and meeting with CARB staff and board members to ensure the concerns of the soybean industry were heard.
Among ASA’s main concerns were the failure to update key data used in the GTAP-BIO model, which determines the land use change penalty for soybean oil. Without the latest data, the model could unfairly disadvantage soybean-based biofuels compared to other feedstocks. The proposed 20 percent cap on the use of virgin vegetable oils — such as soybean, sunflower and canola oils — in biomass-based diesel also raised alarms, as this restriction could limit feedstock availability and constrain market
opportunities for soybean biofuels. Additionally, new sustainability reporting requirements, while intended to ensure the environmental benefits of biofuels, could impose significant compliance burdens on producers of soybean-based fuels and potentially restrict their access to California’s biofuels market.
While the final amendments did not include significant changes to address ASA’s concerns, there are some developments in the Chair’s resolution, which accompanies the final vote.
The resolution does not express explicit support for the feedstock cap or the sustainability reporting requirements, instead calling for further evaluation of both provisions. It also directs CARB staff to update their lifecycle modeling with input from USDA, a step ASA has long advocated for. The resolution further calls for continued review of fuel availability as the new sustainability measures are implemented, ensuring that market impacts are considered as the LCFS evolves.
The amendments are expected to be finalized by CARB staff and could take effect as early as Jan. 1, 2025, though a more likely implementation date is April 1, 2025, if additional work is required. As the implementation process moves forward, ASA will remain engaged, continuing to advocate for changes that will benefit the soybean industry.
Although the final amendments do not fully address all of ASA’s concerns, the resolution provides a path for further discussion and potential adjustments in the future.
ASA’s work is far from over. The association will continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates as the LCFS amendments are finalized and implemented.
ASA remains committed to ensuring that soybeanbased biofuels have a strong place in California’s clean fuel future and will continue working with CARB and other stakeholders to advocate for policies that support the growth of the soybean biofuels industry.
Take action to help Hoosier farmers
Become a lifetime member of Indiana’s corn and soybean policy groups
The Indiana Corn Growers Association (ICGA) and the Indiana Soybean Alliance’s Membership & Policy Committee (M&P) represent our state’s farmers in the legislative halls in Indianapolis and Washington, D.C. These organizations need your membership to influence federal and state lawmakers.
Indiana soybean and corn growers can now save money and eliminate the hassle of annual renewals by purchasing a LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP to both ICGA and M&P. For only $1,700, you can be a member of both ICGA and M&P for life!
Anyone interested in buying this membership, should contact Industry Affairs Outreach Manager Khyla Goodman by phone at 317-614-0377 or by email at goodman@indianasoybean.com
Or, you can go to our website, incornandsoy.org/ membership, to join!
Lifetime Members:
Phil Ramsey
Courtney Kingery
Matthew Lucas
Tyler Everett
David Gottbrath
Mike Sprinkle
Jeff Troike
Jim Douglas
Michael Steinbarger
Sam Caldwell
Mark Nigh
Alan Dunn
Mason Gick
Aaron Johnson
Nathan Luallen
Sam Mehringer
David Wenning
Mark Wenning
Creed Gunn
Andrew Fansler
Kent Burton
Russell Anderson
Troy Hattery
Mark Bacon
Ronald Sutherlin
Jordan Caldwell
Mike Shuter
John Baugh
Janice Peterson
Cullen Page
Don Wyss
John Peters
Bruce Herr
Lauren Tolle
Luke Roush
James Wood
Allen Buchanan
Matt Hart
Ron Hudson
Mark Tolle
Don Wyss, Fort Wayne, Ind.
“It’s important to be invested in the organizations that will support agriculture in our state and the United States. The lifetime option has made it simple to commit to become a member just one time, but it allows you to always stay involved.”
Banks: Top priority is protecting Indiana farmland from foreign buyers and taxes
BY U.S. SEN.-ELECT JIM BANKS Republican Party
Farmland is one of Indiana’s most precious finite resources, and we must do everything we can to protect it.
In 2010, China owned just 13,000 acres of U.S. agricultural land. According to the USDA, that number has now skyrocketed to nearly 380,000 acres of American farmland.
Relaxed enforcement of existing laws has allowed land purchases that must legally be reported within 90 days to go undeclared for years.
I was a vocal supporter of State Rep. Kendell Culp’s bill to ban foreign adversaries, including the Chinese Communist Party, from buying farmland in Indiana and was very proud that our state signed this bill into law earlier this year.
There are other urgent threats to farmland right here at home.
This summer, Vice President Kamala Harris announced her support for the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, legislation that would dramatically slash the estate tax exemption from $13.6 million to $3.5 million.
As a congressman representing District 3, U.S. Rep. Jim Banks frequently met with farmers during Shop Talk meetings and other events.
Farmers with modest income, whose families have owned land for generations, would be hit with a massive tax bill when the primary landholder passes away. With many farmers already struggling to make ends meet, this would jeopardize the ability of many families to retain ownership of their small farms across generations.
Earlier this year, I co-sponsored the Death Tax Repeal Act to fully revoke the federal death tax, which can be as high as 40 percent of the value of the deceased’s property. When farming families lose a loved one, the last thing they need to worry about is the IRS showing up at the door.
Nor should our nation’s farmers be forced to worry about bureaucrats forcing woke priorities down their throats. It’s why I pushed to defund the Biden-Harris USDA’s so-called “Equity Commission,” as well as to zero out the salary of its Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer.
Hoosier farmers are the fifth largest producers of corn and soybean in the country and as the representative for northeast Indiana during the past eight years, it has been an honor to represent many of them in Congress.
Farmers are the backbone of our nation. Their long hours and hard work not only put food on our plates but protects America’s national security.
From leading the Indiana Republican delegation in supporting President Trump’s efforts to rescind the over-reaching Waters of the United States — commonly referred to as WOTUS — rule in 2017 to working directly with farmers at the Corn and Soybean Shop Talks about farm bill priorities, I’m proud to have been an advocate for Hoosier farmers in Congress and will always fight for them in Washington.
U.S. Sen.-elect Jim Banks, at center, poses with farmers from his district in 2023 following a Shop Talk meeting. The farmers, from left, are Tom Griffiths, Carey McKibben, Steve Phares and Eric Strater.
Braun to create one-stop, online shop for farmers to work with state agencies
BY GOV.-ELECT MIKE BRAUN Republican Party
Touring all 92 counties every year, I’ve had the privilege to meet so many of the Indiana farmers that feed our country and support our state’s economy.
Here’s my promise to Hoosier farmers: You will have a friend, an advocate and an open door in the Governor’s office when I’m sworn in.
Here are a few of the ideas I’ve proposed to make life better for Indiana’s farmers. I want to make sure that when our state is working on economic development, the benefits are spread throughout the state – not just in high-population areas. I’ve proposed a Hoosier Rural Business Growth program, where the Indiana Economic Development Corporation would attract qualified private sector investors to raise and invest capital into rural communities and help rural businesses expand their operations. This model has been successful in Ohio, Oklahoma and Utah.
Customer service was a key part to why my business became so successful, and that’s something I’ll bring to farmers as your Governor. I want to create a simple, one-stopshop online portal for farmers where they can interface with state agencies, receive technical assistance, and learn about state funding opportunities and regulatory impact on their businesses.
My property tax plan caps year-to-year increase in farmland property tax bills at 3 percent. Average
farmland tax bill increases in 2024 would have been spread out over nine years with this cap in place. We also need to update the Farmland Base Rate Formula to more accurately reflect the true farm economy.
Serving on the Senate Aging and Agriculture committees, I discovered that the farm economy tends to have older workers than most other sectors on average and fewer young people are choosing agriculture for their careers. This is a problem not just for family farms but the industry as a whole.
One solution I’m interested in is a Young and Beginning Farmer Tax Credit that would help young farmers secure affordable farmland to begin their careers in this important line of work. Older farmers under this program would receive an adjusted gross income tax credit in exchange for selling or renting their assets to a beginning farmer. Kentucky and Pennsylvania have had some success with a program similar to this one that helps farmers younger and older.
I also want to work with the General Assembly to enhance the safety net for farms through a new Farm Savings Account, so farmers can create a taxadvantaged rainy-day fund to dip into when gross revenues fall below a statutory threshold or to make certain on-farm investments.
Gov.-elect Mike Braun often discussed farm policy issues with ag stakeholders during his six years as a U.S. senator. In this photo, Braun meets with Indiana Soybean Alliance CEO Courtney Kingery, Indiana Corn Growers Association leader Scott Smith and ISA Membership and Policy Committee Chair Keevin Lemenager during a 2023 briefing.
These are just a few of the ideas I’m interested in pursuing to help Hoosier farmers, and I hope that you will get in touch with me to make your voice heard on issues important to your business and your families.
It’s an honor to be your next Governor of Indiana.
Counting Indiana’s Votes!
INDIANA GOVERNOR
Marlin Stutzman (R) 65%
Kiley Adolph (D) 31.4%
Jarrad Lancaster (L) 3.5%
For Hoosiers, November election brings a new president, governor and senator
BY DAVE BLOWER JR.
The election results from Indiana show a shift in roles for many Hoosier lawmakers. In the race for the U.S. Senate, U.S. Rep. Jim Banks (R-Dist. 3) is now U.S. Sen.-elect Jim Banks. In the race for governor, U.S. Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) is now Indiana Gov.-elect Mike Braun.
During a recent Ag Policy Podcast produced by Hoosier Ag Today and sponsored by the Indiana Soybean Alliance’s Membership & Policy Committee (M&P) and the Indiana Corn Growers Association (ICGA), the ramifications of the election earlier this month were analyzed by three policy watchers. These analysts included ICGA and M&P Senior Director for Industry Affairs Steve Howell, The Nature Conservancy Director of Government Relations John Ketzenberger and National Council of Farmer Cooperatives CEO and President Chuck Conner.
To listen to this podcast in its entirety, go online to hoosieragtoday.com and click on the link to the Indiana Ag Policy Podcast.
Many of the races were not a surprise. In the national race, President-elect Donald Trump earned 58.6 percent of the vote in Indiana as Vice President Kamala Harris received 39.7 percent. Trump went on to defeat Harris 312-226 in electoral votes.
Gov.-elect Braun defeated Democratic challenger Jennifer McCormick 54.4 percent to 41.1 percent, and Sen.-elect Banks defeated Democrat candidate Valerie McCray 58.6 percent to 38.8 percent.
In the Congressional races, Republicans held on to seven seats and Democrats maintained two seats. The results were:
• District 1 – incumbent U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan (D) 53.4 percent; Randy Niemeyer (R) 45 percent
• District 2 – incumbent U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym (R) 62.7 percent; Lori Camp (D) 34.6 percent
• District 4 – incumbent U.S. Rep. Jim Baird (R) 64.9 percent; Derrick Holder (D) 30.9 percent
• District 5 – incumbent U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz (R) 56.6 percent; Deborah Pickett (D) 38 percent
Chuck Conner is the President and CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC). Founded in 1929, the mission of the NCFC is to advance the business and policy interests of America’s farmer-owned cooperatives. Conner has served as the NCFC’s leader for 15 years, but he plans to step down at the end of the year.
• District 6 – Republican Jefferson Shreve 64 percent; Democrat Cynthia Wirth 31.7 percent
• District 7 – incumbent U.S. Rep. Andre Carson (D) 68.3 percent; John Schmitz (R) 29 percent
• District 8 – Republican Mark Messmer 68 percent; Democrat Erik Hurt 29.4 percent
• District 9 – incumbent U.S. Rep. Erin Houchin (R) 64.5 percent; Timothy Peck (D) 32.7 percent
In the Indiana Statehouse, Republicans will maintain super-majorities in each chamber. Republicans will have a 70-30 advantage in the House of Representatives and a 40-10 advantage in the Senate.
Election analysis
Howell said having established relationships with many of the recently elected officials will help ICGA and M&P as it pushes for farm-friendly policies.
“We do have a lot of new faces,” he said. “We’ve got a new governor, a new senator and three new House members, so there’s a lot to do. But, for as many new faces as we have, I think it’s going to be an easy transition
As the senior director of Industry Affairs for the Indiana Corn Growers Association (ICGA) and the Indiana Soybean Alliance’s Membership and Policy Committee (M&P), Steve Howell works with state and federal lawmakers to promote policies that benefit the state’s row-crop farmers. ICGA and M&P are sponsors of the Indiana Ag Policy Podcast, which broadcasts twice each month, on the Hoosier Ag Today website.
for our organizations because we’ve had relationships with these folks in other positions. We worked with Gov.elect Braun as a senator. We worked with Sen.-elect Jim Banks in the House, now we’ll work with him in the Senate. I had the opportunity to work with Jefferson Shreve while he was a member of the Indianapolis CityCounty Council, so I’ve got a little bit of history there. Mark Messmer worked in the Statehouse as a state senator, so we’ve got some history of working with him. I think we will be able to get up to speed with a working relationship pretty quickly with some of these folks.”
Ketzenberger said the newly elected officials will be good for Hoosier conservationists. He said The Nature Conservancy works in tandem with farm groups from around the state.
“I see Rep. Baird, in the House, continuing to play a key role especially as we see what happens or doesn’t happen with the farm bill during the next lame-duck session and going into next year,” he said. “I think Sen.elect Banks is going to be an interesting person to watch. In the House, he was one of 435. He was pretty aggressive and got around on the issues in a hurry. Now that he’s in the Upper Chamber, as they say, it’ll be interesting to see how he handles that.”
Ketzenberger went on to say that Banks has a good path to follow because U.S. Sen. Braun had a good record when it came to conservation and farm policy.
Conner believes most farmers will be pleased with federal tax policies. “We want to see an extension of our current tax policy, which is pretty favorable policy for estates, for farms, for LLCs, corporations – pretty
favorable” he said. “With Trump, and now control of the House and the Senate being Republicans, it’s almost certain that those tax provisions, that all expire next year, are going to get extended. And I think generally, most people would say that’s pretty good news for American agriculture and for agribusiness.”
Conner believes a major win for farmers under Republican leadership relates to regulatory issues.
“My phone rings off the hook every day from people complaining about regulatory overreach, whether that’s Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Labor, it just seems like there’s a constant onslaught,” he explained. “I think you can safely say that when Trump takes office, regulatory overreach is going to stop – period.”
An area of concern that might be more difficult to tackle is farm labor.
“We’ve been working on that for a very, very long time, unsuccessfully,” Conner said. “I think our chances of solving some of those labor problems in a Republicancontrolled body gets a little bit more challenging, because it does interact with all of our border-control issues and the like, and that’s just going to be a lot stickier probably with the Republicans in charge than had it been a different set of circumstances.”
Farm bill during lame-duck session?
Conner said he believes Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), who is the chair of the Senate Ag Committee, sees farm policy as her legacy of her work in the Senate. Stabenow did not seek re-election this fall.
“The farm bill, I think, is still a complete unknown at this point,” he said. “We just don’t know what the implications of the election are on the farm bill. I would still like to
John Ketzenberger is the Director of Government Relations for The Nature Conservancy. Ketzenberger and The Nature Conservancy work often with Indiana farmers to find policies that will allow people and nature to thrive. In this photo, Ketzenberger leads a panel discussion during the Ag Policy Summit.
see Congress get a farm bill done during this lame-duck session. That lame-duck session, just as a reminder, will still have Democrats in charge in the Senate. But I think there is still enough common ground that we can get that done before Trump is inaugurated as the next President of the United States.”
Ketzenberger agreed that the lame-duck session may be the best opportunity to get a farm bill passed.
“I don’t think the Democrats’ opportunity to influence this farm bill gets any better when control of the Senate and this committee flips to the Republicans,” he said. “Any leverage that they want to exercise, and any input they want to add, this is the time for Democrats to make that move.”
At the same time, Ketzenberger said the response by House Republicans to a Senate farm bill proposal is another concern. He added that House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La. Dist. 4) may not have incentive to move the farm bill forward until after Republicans control both chambers of Congress.
Conner said, “My advice for the speaker is that Rural America came forward for the Republicans in a pretty resounding way in this election. This would be a great way to kick things off – not that the farm bill is the only thing that matters in Rural America – but it’s a very important issue out there.”
He added that getting the farm bill out of the way would allow Republicans to focus on economic issues in the first 100 days of the new term. Conner said the economy is the overwhelming reason why Republicans were voted into office in this election.
Next USDA Secretary
As the Trump Transition Team works to get its cabinet in place for the new year, two Hoosiers have been prominently mentioned as candidates for USDA Secretary: former ISDA Director Ted McKinney and former U.S. Ambassador Kip Tom.
McKinney, who now serves as the CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, was the USDA’s Undersecretary for Agricultural Trade during President Trump’s first term. Tom was also a part of the first Trump Administration as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nation’s Agencies for Food and Agriculture.
“They are both agriculturalists right to their core,” Conner said. “They do a great job in their positions. We are really encouraging the Trump Administration to look for someone who has the heart of a farmer. That’s going to be really critical going forward.”
Other names that are being considered for this post include Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum.
From property taxes at the Statehouse to the Farm Bill on Capitol Hill, the Indiana Ag Policy Podcast will share the latest from the biggest names in ag policy. Scan below to listen now!
Southeastern Indiana farmer, ICMC President grows his business with vision and a plan
BY DAVE BLOWER JR.
Tim Gauck is the third generation to lead his family’s farm in Decatur County near Greensburg, Ind. Growing corn, soybeans and wheat, the Gauck family farm succeeds thanks to their family’s vision and plan.
Gauck operates the farm with the help of his two children and seven grandchildren and says everyone in the family brings their strengths and interests to the farm business. His daughter and son-in-law, Diana and Kevin Horstman, work on the farm and raise their five children while also running a Beck’s Hybrids seed dealership, warehousing seed, and managing a farm trucking business. Diana also handles the farm’s bookkeeping.
family business that focuses on sustainability, has the ability to adapt to changing markets, and is willing to diversify operations. The business will utilize the family members’ and employees’ talents so they can excel to the best of their abilities. We will work to provide opportunities that would allow future generations to be a part of the operation. Gauck Farms, Inc., will also strive to continue to be a valued and respected member of the local community.”
Encouraged by generations past and present, this vision reflects the values and goals that shape the family’s legacy.
Coming home
His son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Kimmie Gauck, contribute to the farm in their own ways. Steve is an agronomist for Beck’s Hybrids, and Kimmie runs a freezer beef and pork business. They also raise laying hens, meat chickens and pigs and are parents of the fifth generation, son, Christopher, and daughter, Addie – both Purdue University students.
Integrating each family members’ unique talents into the farm business is a deliberate process rooted in Gauck’s years of service.
During the past 50 years, he has volunteered to serve on numerous boards and leadership roles within his community and industry, currently serving as president of the Indiana Corn Marketing Council (ICMC), the state’s corn checkoff program. His involvement in strategic planning and mission-building efforts inspired a guiding vision for Gauck Farms, Inc.:
“Gauck Farms, Inc., will continue to be a respectable
The adaptability of the farm can be defined by the changes it has been through. The farm was started by Gauck’s grandfather, Joe Raver, in 1918. Raver’s daughter and son-in law, Margaret and Quirin Gauck, grew the farm, which was known for innovations and new technology.
After graduating from Purdue University with a degree in agricultural economics and then working for Ralston Purina, Gauck returned to the farm in 1974. Each of his siblings also worked on this farm before moving on to other ventures. His brothers and sister are Gerald, Don, Ernie and Polly.
“Before going to Purdue, I got a tired of milking cows and tending stables, and said, ‘Man, I’m going off to college, so I don’t have to do this anymore,’” Gauck explained. “After college, I worked off the farm for about a year. Then I thought, ‘You know, the farm wasn’t as bad as I thought it was.’ My brother would say there’s a little manure in every job. So, I came back to farm again.”
Each member of the Gauck farm contributes to its success. The family includes, from left, Steve and Kimmie Gauck, Tim and Christy Gauck, and Diana and Kevin Horstman.
Maintaining a balance between time for work, time for family and time for others is a priority.
“There’s one thing I’ve said for years,” Gauck added. “I don’t know if I like farming as much as what it allows me to do because I’ve been pretty involved in a lot of other things, and I enjoy that very much. But I do like farming. You set your own path; your priorities change from minute to minute sometimes. That’s pretty much my story.”
Family priorities
Gauck wanted his children and their spouses to chart their own paths, too.
“When my son-in law, Kevin came on, he had a real interest in semis and repair work, so I thought ‘We can follow that route,’” Gauck said. “The trucks are his now. But when he wanted to farm, I told him, ‘Find a way to cover your wage.’ We did that by adding a bale-wrapping business for a couple of years, which turned out to be very successful. We expected to do 1,000 bales a year, but we did 4,000 in the first year. About that time, he and Diana started a family, and he was out late many nights baling. I said, ‘You know, that’s not part of our mission and vision statement – to be away from family.’ So, we got rid of the bale-wrapper. Soon after, they started the seed business with Beck’s, and between that and the semis, they were doing alright.”
Diana also said coming back to the farm was never
part of her plan. In 2009, she called her father to see if there was a place for her on the farm. “After I worked here for a while, he transitioned the books over to me,” Diana said. “For somebody who has hated math all my life, I ended up really enjoying accounting. I still don’t like math, but now I wish I would have taken some accounting classes in school. I enjoyed taking over the books, and Kevin enjoys the farming part of it. It’s like I said, God had a better plan for us.”
Kevin and Diana are parent to five young children: Wesley, Kelly, Gabe, Chad and Jacob.
Gauck’s son, Steve, was also encouraged to work off the farm after graduating from Purdue with an ag econ degree.
“I enjoyed the people, enjoyed learning and enjoyed being in business,” Steve said. “Doing that led to opportunities to work off the farm a little bit and make sure it was what I wanted. I worked in ag retail and in ag sales, and then I started at Beck’s. Beck’s gave me the option to come back here, help Dad farm and still work for them. It’s been a nice partnership. I probably don’t get to be here as much as I’d like to, but since I have a full-time job that I enjoy and relates to the farm, it helps me bring ideas back to the farm and have discussions with the family.”
Steve’s wife, Kimmie, operates Gauck’s Meats, which sells fresh pork, grass-fed and finished beef, and pastureraised chickens. She was
Decatur County farmer Tim Gauck points to a photo of his farm as it appeared many years ago. Also tucked into the frame is a photo of Gauck with his father.
Gauck farm employee George Trenkamp, at left, talks with Tim Gauck under the hood of a pickup truck. Gauck said Trenkamp is a valuable contributor to the farm and has worked with him since the 1970s.
Jacob Horstman, 4, the youngest son of Diana and Kevin Horstman, plays on an antique tractor in a shop on the family farm.
raised on a small livestock farm and admits that row-crop farming was new to her. Kimmie exclusively works on the livestock side of the farm.
Gauck had a third child, Paul, who was five years younger than Steve. At one point, Gauck thought Paul would be the future of the farm, but he suffered from cancer and passed away in 2001 at the age of 19.
Preserving the land
Gauck said preserving the land for future generations is also part of the plan. They use grid-sampling to apply fertilizer using precision technology to maximize yield potential and limit the use of extra fertilizer. The Gaucks also use no-till practices to conserve land where erosion is a concern.
“We are moving to a complete no-till and cover crop system to allow us to build soil health and maintain the soils for the next generation,” Gauck said. “We use precision farming methods to collect data from every acre of our farming operation. This includes automated planting maps and precise yield maps.”
For these efforts and more, Gauck was honored with a Master Farmer designation from Indiana Prairie Farmer magazine in July.
He said finding a proper balance between economics and sustainability is important.
“The economics must work because you must make money off the land you use,” Gauck said. “But sometimes you need to take a longer view and consider what’s best for the land for the next generation to be able to use it.”
Steve added, “Sustainability is used as a generic conservation term, but every farmer wants the farm to be sustainable for the next generation”
Agricultural industry leadership
Leading Indiana’s corn checkoff program isn’t Gauck’s first leadership position. He has served on various boards in a variety of roles since the mid-1970s. In the past, he has been the president of the Decatur County Beef Cattlemen’s Association, a board member of the Indiana State Beef Cattlemen’s Association, a director of the Decatur County REMC and a 35-year volunteer 4-H leader.
As the ICMC president, Gauck is focused on increasing the value of the crops that Hoosier farmers produce more valuable.
“Every industry plays a role in shaping its own future,” Gauck said. “Schoolteachers have a teacher’s union. Small businesses have their organizations. The rural electric co-ops have an association. You’ve got to have a voice in what’s going on in your industry.”
Gauck is also a paid member of the Indiana Corn Growers Association (ICGA). He believes it’s important that the checkoff work done by ICMC is supported by the policy efforts provided by ICGA.
“Thinking about our checkoff work, I think there’s real value in finding new markets for our corn both domestically and overseas. One easy solution is to increase ethanol (blended into gasoline) from 10 percent to 15 percent. That would help right away. Then we need ICGA to work with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., and in other states to make this a priority.”
ICMC President Tim Gauck has hosted foreign trade teams on his farm near Greensburg, Ind., to answer questions about how Indiana farmers produce a crop.
ICMC President Tim Gauck chats with Mary Brooke Stith, left, an FFA state officer from Kentucky, and Caleb Bennet, an FFA state officer from Ohio, during the National FFA Convention Kickoff Luncheon in Indianapolis, Ind.
Field research trials are important to improving agronomic practices
BY DAN QUINN
Purdue Extension Corn Specialist
Field research trials are an important part of understanding how specific agronomic practices can improve farm productivity. In upcoming growing seasons like 2025, when corn prices are lower and margins become tighter, it becomes even more important to assess, question, and look at reputable data prior to making input or management decisions.
Universities such as Purdue use both research station and on-farm research trials across the state to help drive our recommendations and provide management information for Indiana farmers. However, some of our research practices and conclusions may differ from various private-sector research trials and potentially what you may see on your own farm.
For example, questions may arise, such as: Why did they set up the research trial that way? The yield numbers look different, but why are they are telling me they are not different? And, why does it seem the university never sees any yield responses from various products?
Therefore, it is important to understand how we approach field research trials, the steps we take to determine our conclusions, and how understanding these approaches can help you better understand and test practices more accurately on your own farm.
Crop management and assessing the practices/ products that work or don’t work is challenging and often debatable. Why? Because we work, manage and assess practices/inputs in a highly variable and biologically active environment.
Many variables to consider
Product and practice responses can change from hybrid to hybrid, field to field, and year to year. Just
because some new “5-plus bushel guaranteed” product or technology worked one year and 100 miles from your farm, doesn’t mean it will work for you. Therefore, when choosing to use a various product or practice, it is important to look at what data is available, how was it acquired, where was it acquired, and how might it help my current operation.
The first two questions I often ask people when discussing research is:
• Do you have a yield monitor in your combine?
• When traveling across the field during harvest, do those yield values stay the same?
The answer I receive 100 percent of the time is “no.” (If yes, you may need to consider a new monitor.)The reason that yield values don’t stay the same is largely due to the variability throughout the field caused by soil type differences, elevation differences, etc. Therefore, when setting up field research trials we often designate a treatment – or new product – and compare that to a nontreated control, or a business-as-usual approach.
Two of the most important questions we ask after harvest is:
• Was the yield difference observed truly caused by the product we applied?
• Was the yield difference only due to the treated areas being in a more productive part of the field?
For example, in Figure 1, if I split a field in half and apply my treatment on one half of the field and don’t apply my treatment on the other half of the field, I may find a yield difference of 15 bushels per acre and think to myself, “I should apply this product on all of my acres.”
However, when you look closer, it is easy to see that the treated area of the field encompassed a larger portion of one soil type, whereas the non-treated area encompassed a larger portion of another soil type. Therefore, it is difficult to differentiate if the yield response was due to the product applied, or was it just
due to the treated area being in a more productive area of the field.
An approach to testing a treatment
In our university research trials, we approach testing a treatment within a field using randomization, replication (repetition of an experiment in similar conditions), and statistics (Figure 2 and Table 1).
For example, if you compare Figure 1 and Figure 2, Figure 2 highlights how we typically set up one of our research trials using replication and randomization of the treated and non-treated passes to account for field differences.
Each of these practices help us improve the reliability of our conclusions, account for random error, such as field variability, and determine the true causes of yield differences observed. Furthermore, it is also important for us to perform these research trials across multiple locations and multiple years to determine how treatment responses may differ in different fields and different environments.
We also use statistical models to help determine our conclusions (Table 1). Using statistics helps us determine if the differences we detect are due to random error, or due to the treatment we tested. For example, if you have ever seen university data presented, you have probably seen data presented similar to Table 1. At first glance, after we randomized and replicated our treatments (Figure 2), the treated areas seem to have increased corn yield by 4 bushels per acre (Table 1).
However, our conclusions were that no yield differences were observed. Therefore, through the research steps we implemented, it was determined that the yield difference was due to random error, such as field variability, and not due to the product or management practice tested.
The letters next to the yield values help us highlight where statistical (yield differences due to treatments) differences were observed.
In conclusion, when testing a new product or practice on your own farm, it is important to think about how to design and set up a trial to accurately test the new product or practice. Just because a yield difference is observed, doesn’t always mean the new product or practice you tested is the reason for this difference.
Table 1: Corn grain yield comparisons between the non-treated control and an imposed treatment following a randomized and replicated field research trial.
Also, when trying out a new practice or product, don’t just jump in and apply it across the whole farm. Leave a check-strip or turn the planter/sprayer off a couple times in the field to get an idea how something is performing. At Purdue, it is our goal to accurately assess new products and practices to determine whether or not these are truly
*Average yield values which contain the same corresponding letters are not statistically different (P>0.1) from each other.
the reason behind observed yield differences.
In addition, as you sit in on various meetings, presentations, and examine research results, ask yourself how did they design and set up this research trial? Did they use randomization, replication and statistics; and if not, is the yield differences being discussed truly due to the product applied? And, how many different environments and years was this product tested?
Understanding and asking these questions can help determine the best products and management practices to implement and improve your operation.
Figure 1: This is an example of a split-field comparison between a non-treated control and a designated treatment.
Figure 2: This is an example of a replicated and randomized field research trial comparison between a non-treated control and a designated treatment
Dry soil conditions in the fall can be a blessing and a curse
BY SHAUN N. CASTEEL
Purdue Extension Soybean Specialist
Soybean harvest was one of the fastest on record with a pace that was about one week ahead of the 5-year average. Dry conditions cut seed fill short in late August to September; thereby, advancing the crop. These dry conditions continued through the fall allowing an early harvest based on calendar date and even the hour we could start combining.
of the 2:1 clays. Dry conditions can also limit potassium release from the crop residues. Soil pH values can be somewhat lower as well if spring applications of limestone did not have enough moisture for reactions to be fully realized.
In these situations, it is reasonable to compare soil test values of the past with the current ones – if sampled under dry conditions. Then to do some back of the envelope math for nutrient removal of the crops between the two soil samplings.
Dry soil conditions during the fall can be a blessing and a curse. Soybean harvest certainly capitalized on early maturation and the extra hours (days and weeks) to bring the crop in. Unfortunately, grain moisture in many of the fields were down as low as 9 to 10 percent leading to a couple bushels of loss as the soybeans went across the elevator scales.
Soil sampling should have been turned around pretty quick – if the soil probes were able to get into the ground. The soil was dry and very hard in many fields. We need to proceed with caution on some of the early soil samplings if the soil was very dry. Or at least, we need to compare this year’s results with the previous sampling on the same fields.
In particular, soil potassium has a tendency to be lower when the soil is very dry at sampling. The potassium cation gets fixed or trapped in the interlayers
We are going to assume standard management practices for corn and soybean for the following nutrient uptake and removal rates. On average, corn removes 0.35 pounds of P2O5 and 0.25 pounds of K2O per bushel based on national averages. For example, a 220 bushel crop of corn would remove about 77 pounds of P2O5 and 55 pounds of K2O per acre (see Table 1).
Soybean nutrient removals are available as well in Table 2. On average, soybean removes 0.73 lb P2O5 and 1.20 lb K2O per bu, so a 75-bu crop of soybean would remove about 55 lb of P2O5 and 90 lb of lb K2O per acre (Table 2). Obviously, fields have yield variations and those should be considered for both crops. I have also listed the grain removals of nitrogen and sulfur in Tables 1 and 2, but these are not to be used as replacement values. Let’s assume that you produced 220 bushel corn in 2023 and 75 bushel soybeans in 2024. Grain
121 147 174
0.35 63 77 91
0.25 45 55 65 Sulfur 0.08 14 18 21
Table 1: Corn nutrient removal in grain alone based on yield of standard production practices and examples of yield levels 180, 220 and 260 bushels per acre. Please note, the tri-state values are 0.35 pounds of P2O5 and 0.20 pounds of K2O per bushel (slightly lower).
removal would be about 145 pounds of K2O per acre (55 pounds from corn, 90 pounds of K2O from soybean). In an Iowa study, 10 pounds of K2O returned to the soil increased soil test 4 parts per million (8 pounds per acre). If we back-calculate the potential change in soil test K, the soil sampled this fall should be approximately 58 ppm lower than the soil sampling two years ago when no potassium was added. Obviously, if fertilizer K was added between these samplings that should be offset in these calculations.
Table 2: Soybean nutrient removal in the seed alone based on yield of standard production practices and examples at 50, 75 and 100 bushels per acre. Please note, the tri-state values are 0.80 pounds of P2O5 (slightly higher) and 1.15 pounds of K2O per bushel (slightly lower).
In the same Iowa study, 5 to 10 inches of rainfall released most of the potassium from soybean stover. Whereas, 10 to 15 inches of rainfall released about 50 percent of the potassium from corn stover.
In fact, 31 percent of potassium was still in corn stover after 20 inches of rain – a typical amount of rainfall for Indiana fall and winter. This should provide some guidance if the fall 2024 samplings were too dry and/or too early before the release of potassium from the crop residue.
The soybean harvest was one of the fastest on record in Indiana with a pace that was about one week ahead of the 5-year average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Dry conditions cut seed fill short in late August to September; thereby, advancing the crop.
Lower costs, less compaction and increased yields after adopting conservation practices
BY AMIE SIMPSON
Joe Hamilton, a farmer near Muncie, Ind., has seen a positive impact on his operation since planting cover crops and using no-till practices. Hamilton returned to his family farm in 2015 after a decade of working as a mechanical engineer. By 2018, his operation was 100 percent no-till, and within a few years of that he was planting cover crops on 100 percent of his acres.
Since then, the corn and soybean farmer has lowered costs by reducing herbicide use as well as fertilizer application. He switched to addressing phosphorus needs with poultry litter and has found success with variable rate applications when needed based on soil testing.
Hamilton noted that progress takes time. Cover crops are a long-term investment in soil health as it can take about three years of annual use to see those improvements in organic matter and yield.
do if you have overwintering cover crops? Are you going to terminate those with herbicide two weeks before you plant? If so, are you going to do your own spraying or are you going to rely on someone else to do it?
Start small, stay patient
Hamilton encourages farmers to start small and give it the time necessary to be successful.
“I have seen gradual yield increases every year since that initial adoption period,” he said. “I’m also seeing better water infiltration when we get heavy rains. Less of the water pools on the surface and more of it makes its way into the soil. I’m seeing less compaction, especially in wheel tracks, and less crop variability within fields. I continue to see all of these things, and it’s getting better every year.”
Hamilton advises farmers to assess their capabilities prior to implementing cover crops or other similar practices. “Before you jump in and plant all your acres to cover crops and say that you’re going to go no-till, you need to have a termination plan in place for your cover crops,” he said.
Questions to think about include: What are you going to
“It took three years before I really saw my yields increasing,” he explained. “I don’t want to see farmers try it for a year or two and then give up quickly when the cost share goes away or when they decide they’re not seeing the yield increase as they expected.”
Hamilton also suggests that farmers utilize available programs.
He has participated in the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Environmental Quality
Incentives Program (EQIP), as well as the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).
“Through those experiences, I created a nutrient management program and met my agronomist,” he said. “He helped me with balancing my soil, applying high calcium lime and gypsum, and making adjustments to get to a place where the soil is healthier. That’s been a big part of the farm’s transition.”
He participated in the Indiana Soybean Alliance and Indiana Corn Marketing Council Upper White Cover Crop Program. He shared his experiences with implementing conservation practices and participating in the program during an Upper White Cover Crop Field Day he hosted on his farm in August.
Joe Hamilton grows 2,500 acres of corn and soybeans on his farm near Muncie, Ind., where he has seen the economic and environmental benefits of planting cover crops and implementing no-till practices.
Scan to see soil health resources
Other advice he has is to find an independent agronomist, talk with farmers who are using these practices, and attend relevant events. Hamilton has found success attending the National No-Till Conference. He says it provides an opportunity to network with other farmers and hear what has and hasn’t worked on their operations.
The next National No-Till Conference will take place Jan. 7-10 in Louisville, Ky.
Looking back, looking forward
Hamilton has had the opportunity to reflect on returning to his family farm. He knew he may not have another chance to become more involved in the operation and that wasn’t a risk he was willing to take.
The Delaware County farmer hosted an Upper White Cover Crop Program Field Day on his farm in August. He shared his experiences implementing conservation practices and participating in the Indiana Soybean Alliance and Indiana Corn Marketing Council Upper White Cover Crop program.
“The way that I saw it was, if I came back in 2015 and tried to take over the farm and I couldn’t make it work, I could always go back and become an engineer again,” he said. “If I didn’t come back and the farming operation shrank in size, it was going to be difficult for me to ever try that again. That was nine years ago and I’m still doing it.”
Hamilton noted that it hasn’t always been easy with lots
Since he returned to his family farm nine years ago, Hamilton has enjoyed the challenges that come with adapting production practices to reduce costs of production, increase profitability, and improve the soil health of the farm for future generations.
of hours, money and stress surrounding fluctuating prices and conditions.
“I planned my return based on 2013 prices, so when I looked at what income I was making, what I thought I would need to live here and support my family, 2013 prices were rather good. By 2015, when I quit my job, prices had gone down, so right off the bat it was challenging,” he said. “Since then, prices have continued to go up and down, but reducing our variable costs through no-till, for example, has helped us withstand those fluctuations.”
The operation got its start with Hamilton’s grandfather in the early 1950s. When his father took over in the 1970s, he grew it into a conventional row-crop operation with tillage and corn and soybean rotations. When Hamilton returned to the operation in 2015, he knew he wanted to implement some different practices to improve nutrient management and increase profitability.
“When I came back, the farm was much like it was when I left. We used a lot of fuel and labor and had a lot of older equipment that got the job done painfully,” Hamilton explained. “I saw that as unsustainable from a labor, farm economic and environmental standpoint. I wanted to set the farm up to be successful in the coming decades, and I decided that we had to make changes – like implementing no-till and planting cover crops – to do that.”
He added that the challenges have been worth it, and he continues to implement practices to reduce costs of production, increase profitability, and improve the soil health of the farm for future generations.
2024 Gary Lamie Scholarship winners are working to advance corn research
BY ANITA SHARKEY
The Indiana Corn Marketing Council (ICMC) has once again recognized the outstanding contributions of two Purdue University students, awarding them the prestigious Purdue College of Agriculture’s Graduate Student Corn Research Assistantship.
This $25,000 scholarship, established in 2014 and named in honor of the late Gary Lamie, supports graduate students pursuing groundbreaking research in corn-related studies.
This year’s recipients, Denise Caldwell and Wily Rodrigo Sic Hernandez exemplify the dedication and innovation that Lamie envisioned when he championed the state’s corn checkoff program during his tenure as ICMC president.
demands of motherhood and marriage with her educational pursuits. Her unique perspective has been a driving force behind her innovative research.
Caldwell’s work focuses on the plant pathogen Phyllachora maydis, the causative agent of tar spot in maize, a critical area of study given the impact of this disease on corn production.
Denise Caldwell’s work focuses on the plant pathogen Phyllachora maydis, the causative agent of tar spot in maize, a critical area of study given the impact of this disease on corn production.
Journey of perseverance, innovation
Denise Caldwell’s path to the ICMC scholarship is a testament to resilience, dedication and a passion for agricultural science. As a fifth-year Ph.D. candidate in Botany and Plant Pathology at Purdue University, Caldwell has a rich academic background, holding a master’s degree from the same department and a bachelor’s degree in Horticultural Science from Purdue. Her educational journey began in 1992, but she prioritized her family, marrying and supporting her husband during his military service before returning to academia.
A mother of four, Caldwell re-entered the academic world as a non-traditional student, balancing the
One of her most notable achievements includes working with NASA to study tomato plants on the International Space Station. This project, which involved simulating pathogen attacks in microgravity, provided valuable insights into plant defense mechanisms and demonstrated Denise’s ability to contribute to high-impact research.
Her current work, funded by the Gary Lamie Graduate Assistantship, involves uncovering the infection strategies of P. maydis and developing protocols for its study in controlled environments—a crucial step in improving disease management in corn.
Caldwell’s passion for her work and desire to contribute to the agricultural community are evident. She plans to use the scholarship to further her research and share her findings at key conferences, including the Maize Genetics Cooperation and the American Phytopathology Society meetings.
Her work promises to provide significant benefits to Indiana corn farmers, helping them better manage tar spots and improve crop yields.
Bridging cultures, advancing research
Wily Rodrigo Sic Hernandez, another deserving recipient of the Gary Lamie scholarship, brings a wealth of experience and a multicultural perspective to his research.
Originally from Guatemala, Hernandez earned his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science and Production from Zamorano University, a leading Latin American agricultural education institution. His academic journey took him from Honduras to the University of Connecticut, where he focused on preventing clogging in drip irrigation systems, and eventually to Purdue University, where he is now pursuing his Ph.D. in Botany and Plant Pathology.
Hernandez’ research centers on the fungal microbiome associated with tar spot on corn, a complex and pressing agricultural issue. His work involves identifying the fungal species in tar spot lesions across different geographical regions, a study that has already yielded significant findings. His research aims to understand the dynamic change in these fungal communities over time, which could lead to new strategies for managing tar spots and even potential biological control methods.
In addition to his research, Hernandez is actively involved in the academic community at Purdue, serving as president of the Association of Zamorano Alumni and vice president of the Botany and Plant Pathology Graduate Student Association.
His leadership roles reflect his commitment to fostering academic and professional growth among his peers, organizing symposiums, social events, and educational activities that benefit the graduate student community.
Is this important for Indiana farmers?
The Gary Lamie Scholarship continues to play a vital role in supporting emerging leaders in corn research. Denise Caldwell and Wily Rodrigo Sic Hernandez exemplify the scholarship’s mission by pushing the boundaries of agricultural science and making meaningful contributions to the industry.
Their work advances our understanding of critical corn diseases and supports the broader goal of improving farming practices and ensuring food security.
As they continue their research, Caldwell and Hernandez are poised to make lasting impacts on plant pathology and the corn industry. Their dedication to their studies, coupled with the support of the ICMC, will undoubtedly lead to advancements that directly benefit corn farmers in Indiana and beyond.
From Grain To Gain
Turkey Industry Thrives in Indiana
Turkey Industry Thrives in Indiana
A delicious turkey dinner is the centerpiece of Thanksgiving Day, yet Indiana’s turkey farmers work all year to produce healthy protein. Indiana ranks fourth in the U.S. for turkey production and its turkey farmers share their fellow farmers’ focus on sustainability and a desire to make Indiana a great place to live and work. Here are several examples of how the turkey industry is thriving in the Hoosier state:
• Leveraging Logistics: Terre Haute is home to one of the largest turkey hatcheries in the world! Select Genetics, headquartered in Wilmar, MN, produces 61 million poults (baby turkeys) at its Indiana hatchery each year. Many of those poults go on to be raised to harvest weight on farms in southwestern Indiana.
• Turning Grain to Gain: There is great synergy between Indiana’s grain farmers and turkey farmers. High quality grain is essential for turkey farmers to achieve an exceptional feed conversion rate of 100 pounds of feed to 50 pounds of turkey produced.
• Turkey production creates jobs: More than 5,000 people in Indiana are directly employed as part of turkey farming with an extra 11,200 jobs in supplier and related industries such as contract growing, processing, product distribution and equipment manufacturing.
There’s no doubt Indiana turkey farmers’ hard work brings delicious turkey to your holiday table!
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ISA office grounds feature soy-based asphalt and soy concrete protectant
BY ANITA SHARKEY
Visitors who pull into the parking lot at the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA) office may not know they are driving on more than just asphalt — they’re rolling over a piece of innovation funded by soybean farmer checkoff dollars.
This fall, the lot was paved with soy-based asphalt and treated with a soy-based sealer, both eco-friendly solutions showcasing soybeans’ remarkable versatility. While heading to the building’s front door, they will walk on soy-protected concrete. These bio-based materials support sustainability while driving growth in the local agricultural economy –proving that the future of farming and infrastructure can go hand in hand. The products protecting the building infrastructure include:
• Vitala (formerly known as Invigorate)
– A cutting-edge asphalt rejuvenator, Vitala incorporates soybeans to boost recycled asphalt content up to 40 percent. Each bushel of soybeans produces about 1.5 gallons of modified oil, equating to approximately 82.5 gallons per acre of soybeans. This environmentally friendly product enhances pavement performance and durability. Learn more at soylei.com.
• PoreShield™ Concrete Protectant
These sustainable products highlight the commitment to soy-based innovations that protect infrastructure and support Indiana’s agricultural community.
These products help Indiana farmers
— Designed to protect concrete surfaces, PoreShield uses advanced technology to guard against moisture and de-icing salts, significantly extending the lifespan of concrete. PoreShield was developed as the result of a collaboration with the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA), Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) and Purdue University. Learn more at poreshield.com.
• RePlay – A bio-based, 100 percent nontoxic asphalt surface treatment that rejuvenates and seals asphalt pavements that cures in 30 minutes and extends the pavement’s lifespan by at least five years. The treatment reduces cracking and wear while being kind to the environment. Learn more at replaywest.com
Indiana is a national leader in soybean production, consistently ranking in the top five states regarding output. In 2023, Indiana farmers harvested around 334 million bushels of soybeans. As the global demand for sustainable, bio-based products increases, Indiana farmers stand to benefit significantly from the integration of soy-based products in industries like construction.
The rise of soy-based products like Vitala, RePlay and PoreShield represents a significant opportunity. As soybean growers continually seek new markets, the asphalt, concrete, and construction industries offer a vast demand for soy-based alternatives.
The U.S. asphalt market was valued at approximately $26 billion in 2020. Utilizing soy oil in asphalt creates an opportunity to drive significant demand for soybeans, benefiting local farmers.
Additionally, using bio-based products speaks to the three pillars of sustainability in agriculture: economic viability, environmental stewardship and social responsibility. These products offer solutions that protect infrastructure and promote sustainable agriculture, as they are renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic.
With soy-based products gaining ground in markets like asphalt rejuvenation and tire manufacturing, Indiana farmers can be proud to know that their crops and checkoff investments are paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Poreshield is applied to the sidewalk in front of the doors to the ISA office building.
This sign is posted in several areas around the ISA office property celebrating the soybean-based products used to protect the parking lot and sidewalks.
Good for Your Land and Your Bottom Line
INCREASE Profitability
Financial Incentive
To help cover the start-up costs of cover crops, Farmers for Soil Health o ers financial assistance of up to $50/acre over a three-year period.
Exclusive Marketplace
Enrollment in Farmers for Soil Health provides access to an exclusive future marketplace connecting farmers to top-tier supply chain partners that are focused on sustainability.
Support
Technical Advisor
Each state has dedicated on-theground technical advisors to provide research-based information and educational resources to aid in the transition of your field.
Greensburg, Ind., farmer Mike Koehne, who is also an ISA director, speaks at a meeting during the 2024 Soy Connext event in San
Corn to Canada: Indiana’s Ethanol on a Mission
BY ANITA SHARKEY
AU.S. team of individuals recently traveled to Canada to promote the expansion of ethanol blending in the country’s fuel market—a significant opportunity for both U.S. producers and Indiana farmers. Among the U.S. Grains Council delegation was Helena Jette, director of market development and biofuels for the Indiana Corn Marketing Council. She joined other industry leaders to discuss how the U.S. can support Canada’s transition to higher ethanol blend rates.
“Canada, the top export market for U.S. ethanol, purchased 590 million gallons in the 2022/2023 marketing year, with an additional surge expected as provinces like Ontario and Quebec prepare to implement E11 and E12 ethanol blends in 2024,” Jette said. “This presents an enormous opportunity for Indiana’s corn farmers, who are critical suppliers of the raw material for ethanol production.”
As Canada pushes for more renewable energy sources to meet its climate goals, Indiana farmers benefit from increased demand for corn used in biofuel.
Helena Jette (right), director of market development and biofuels for the Indiana Corn Marketing Council, participated in a U.S. Grains Council (USGC) trade mission to determine how the U.S. can continue to support Canada’s transition to higher ethanol blend rates.
ICMC’s participation in the meetings with Canadian government officials, including representatives from Environment and Climate Change Canada and Natural Resources Canada, is pivotal in ensuring that U.S. ethanol remains the preferred choice. This also ensures Indiana’s farmers are part of the broader conversation about how ethanol can reduce carbon emissions, mainly as Canada looks toward even more ambitious sustainability goals, such as developing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facilities.
“Maintaining and growing domestic markets is just as important as keeping an eye on opportunities for growth potential in international ethanol export markets that benefit Indiana and U.S. farmers,” Jette says. “The U.S. has the capacity to produce about 17 billion gallons of ethanol and Indiana plays a big role in representing about 7 percent of that production. We applaud Canada for growing their ethanol blend rates and welcome higher potential E15 in the future.”
U.S. Grains Council (USGC)
Regional Ethanol Manager for the EU, U.K. and Canada Stephanie Larson met with Canadian government officials this fall to learn how the U.S. industry can support Canada’s growing use of biofuels. Pictured from left to right outside the office of Natural Resources Canada are Natural Resources Canada Acting Director Amin Asadollahi; Indigo Ag Vice President of Market Development Christopher Malone; Larson; and Helena Jette.
As Canada moves forward with its ethanol initiatives, Indiana’s farmers are poised to be critical contributors, reinforcing their position as both production and innovation leaders.
The trade mission delegation was led by Stephanie Larson, U.S. Grains Council Regional Ethanol Manager for the EU, U.K. and Canada. Larson was joined by Jette and Christopher Malone, vice president of market development for Indigo Ag.
Indiana soybean checkoff on center stage at World Food Championships
The Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA) and U.S. Soy enjoyed a prominent role during November in the Kitchen Arena of the 2024 World Food Championships (WFC), the largest food sport competition focused on everyday cooking categories. The WFC was Nov. 8-12 at the Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center.
High oleic soybean oil was provided to WFC competitors through a partnership with the event. The high oleic soybean oil served as the “official Cooking Oil” for the competition, and it was made available to all of the contestants via the WFC’s Kitchen Arena pantry.
“We were thrilled to work with the Indiana Soybean Alliance to elevate soy as an ingredient on one of the world’s pre-eminent stages for food competition,” said WFC Founder Mike McCloud. “Soy is such a versatile ingredient with so many uses, it is often underutilized in Western cuisine.”
High oleic soybean oil delivers enhanced functional benefits within food service operations such as superior high heat stability. Exclusively a U.S. product, it extends product shelf life and offers the longest fry life of any edible oil. High oleic soybean oil lasts longer than standard vegetable oils in high-temperature and extended-use applications because of its heat and oxidative stability. In addition, the oil’s neutral flavor profile allows it to blend well in a variety of foods and lets the true and natural flavors of the ingredients stand out.
Many venues around Indiana are already using high oleic soybean oil including the Indianapolis Colts’
Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indiana Pacers’ Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Purdue University’s Ross-Ade Stadium and Mackey Arena, and Indiana University’s Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall and Memorial Stadium – among others.
“Just like the many venues around that state that are already using high oleic soybean oil, the World Food Championships is another great opportunity to showcase this cooking oil,” said ISA Chair Kevin Cox, a farmer from Brazil, Ind. “High oleic soybean oil is soybean checkoff program success story, and I am very excited about this product’s future.”
ISA is recognized by the USDA Secretary as a Qualified State Soybean Board, is a statewide organization that works to enhance the viability of Indiana soybean farmers through the effective and efficient investment of soybean checkoff funds. ISA works with the United Soybean Board, which promotes U.S. Soy and soy foods nationally.
The WFC hosted many qualifying events throughout the year. This multi-day, live culinary event showcases some of the world’s best cooks competing for food, fame and fortune across 12 categories: Bacon, Barbecue, Burger, Chef, Dessert, Live Fire, Noodle, Rice, Sandwich, Seafood, Soup and Vegetarian.
Each year, thousands of teams vie for a coveted Golden Ticket at official qualifiers to earn their spot at WFC. Since its debut in 2012, the event has attracted participants from nearly 40 countries and every state in the United States.
For more information, visit WorldFoodChampionships. com
“Soy is such a versatile ingredient with so many uses, it is often underutilized in Western cuisine.” -- Mike McCloud, WFC Founder
These bottles of high oleic soybean oil were given to the chefs who competed during the World Food Championships at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
Like an all-star, High Oleic Soybean Oil is performing for sports fans in Indiana
BY DAVE BLOWER JR.
For sports fans in Indiana, fall is a special time of year. The Indianapolis Colts are tackling the middle of their professional football season at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Indiana Pacers have tipped off their National Basketball Association schedule with home games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Those who prefer college sports will cheer at both football and basketball games in Purdue University’s Ross-Ade Stadium and Mackey Arena, and Indiana University’s Memorial Stadium and Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. November also means the puck has been dropped on the professional hockey season as the Indy Fuel begin play in the new Fishers Event Center.
Each of these sports and teams feature special athletes who are a cut above the rest. These are star players who are able to boost the performance of their teammates to achieve greater success.
In addition, each of these teams share something else in common – each of their home venues will offer concessions cooked in high oleic soybean oil.
Just as star athletes gifted with special skills separate themselves from others, high oleic soybean oil is creating a preference with those who cook with hot oil for many hours. The Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA), the state’s soybean checkoff program, promotes the benefits of high oleic soybean oil and believes working with venues such as Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, RossAde Stadium, Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall and is an excellent way to build demand for our state’s soybeans.
nutritious alternative to traditional vegetable oils. I couldn’t be prouder, as an Indiana farmer, to promote this success story and to show the state’s soybean farmers the value their checkoff brings.”
Preferred by vendors, customers
High oleic soybean oil is a new vegetable oil that lasts longer for food preparation at restaurants – making it more economical. Michael Lake, senior sales director of corporate partnerships for Pacers Sports & Entertainment, said both customers and vendors are pleased with the oil. “The performance is great,” he said. “We have noticed that the oil lasts longer than other oils. This oil leaves a great color and helps to enhance the food flavors.”
All events at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the home of the NBA’s Indiana Pacers and the WNBA’s Indiana Fever, feature concessions cooked in high oleic soybean oil. This offers new customers an opportunity to try the oil.
“This is a great opportunity to showcase a product grown here in Indiana,” said ISA Chair Kevin Cox, a farmer from Brazil, Ind. “High oleic soybean oil is a healthy and
For more than a year, the Pacers and its concessions supplier, Levy Restaurants, have agreed to use high oleic soybean oil in food preparation for events at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
More high oleic soybeans are grown in Indiana than anywhere else on Earth. ISA is committed to expanding use of this oil, in part, because farmers receive a premium for the crop. In 2023, Indiana farmers planted approximately 850,000 acres of high oleic soybeans resulting in more than $100 million in premiums being paid back to farmers.
Sodexo, the company that produces the concessions at Lucas Oil Stadium, will use approximately 3,000 pounds of high oleic soybean oil for each Colts game, while Gainbridge will use 21,000 pounds of oil during the Indiana Pacer’s NBA season. But Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse and these other venues will also sell concessions during additional events such as
Learn more about high oleic soybean oil
concerts and conventions.
“This is our first season using high oleic soybean oil, and we’ve been impressed with its taste and performance,” said Dave Marguth, General Manager of Sodexo. “We’re proud to use a locally sourced product and support Indiana’s farmers. Plus, we’re providing fans with a heart-healthy option – which makes it even better.” Purdue University Athletics has also been using the oil for the past year. “If you don’t have a good oil, you’re just burning your oil out,” said Josh Timmons, executive chef for Levy at Purdue University athletic events. “We could go for a football game and have oil fresh to start and be totally shot by the end of the day just from the volume we do. With the new oil, we can filter and generally get about two games out of it depending on the volume.”
A healthier cooking oil option
High oleic soybeans produce an oil with a modified fat profile comprised of approximately 75 percent oleic acid, 8 percent linoleic acid, 2 percent alpha-linolenic acid and 12 percent saturated fats. High oleic soybean oil delivers enhanced functional benefits within food service operations such as superior high heat stability. Exclusively a U.S. product, high oleic soybean oil extends product shelf life and offers the longest fry life of any edible oil, meaning it performs longer than standard vegetable oils in high-temperature and extendeduse applications because of the heat and the oxidative stability of the oil. In addition, its neutral flavor profile allows it to blend well in a variety of foods and lets the true and natural flavors of
Vendors report that food cooked in high oleic soybean oil is cleaner and tastes better. Also, the oil withstands higher heat for a longer time, which also saves vendors more money.
the ingredients used with it stand out.
A 2015 review concluded that replacing oils high in saturated fats with high oleic soybean oil may reduce coronary heart disease risk. The Food and Drug Administration in 2020 authorized heart health claims for both conventional (commodity) soybean oil and high oleic soybean oil. The food manufacturing industry places a high value on these soy oil health claims.
ISA Board Director Denise Scarborough, a farmer from LaCrosse, Ind., poses with one of the signs posted at a vendor in Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
At each of the venues, ISA has informational signage about the benefits of high oleic soybean oil and the farmers who grow it.
“We take great pride in our partnership with Indiana’s soybean farmers,” said Colts Vice President of Corporate Partnerships Ryan Lobsiger. “By using high oleic soybean oil in Lucas Oil Stadium, we are providing healthier, great-tasting products to our fans. Plus, we’re supporting farming, which has always been a pilar of our state’s economy.”
To learn more about high oleic soybean oil, visit incornandsoy.org/higholeic.
Building demand for high oleic soybean oil is just one example of how the checkoff works to support Indiana farmers. The checkoff also actively works to create new opportunities for soy-based biofuels, exporting soybeans to overseas markets, researching more efficient and environmentally friendly ways to grow a crop – among many other projects.
Visit incornandsoy.org to learn more about the state’s soybean checkoff program.
Lucas Oil Stadium, which hosted three nights of sellout crowds for a Taylor Swift concert recently, is also using high oleic soybean oil in its concessions. This also extends to all home games for the Indianapolis Colts and other events the venue hosts.
Purdue University’s Mackey Arena is another of the many venues throughout Indiana that is using high oleic soybean oil in their concession foods.
U.S. Soy feeds nutritious Indonesian tradition with promotion of tempeh
BY ANU RAMASAMY USSEC Communications Lead, Southeast Asia
Tempeh, a staple of Indonesian cuisine, is celebrated for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. This fermented soy food has been part of Indonesian culture for more than 400 years and is deeply ingrained in the nation’s culinary heritage.
In Southeast Asia, this food is more commonly spelled in English as tempe. But for Western English speakers, adding the “h” at the end ensures the food is pronounced correctly. U.S. Soy farmers who have visited Indonesia have said that deep-fried tempeh resembles fried hash browns.
Tempeh provides Indonesians an affordable source of protein, and its nutrient profile is comparable to beef and chicken.
Indonesia’s consumption of traditional soy foods like tempeh makes it the largest food-use soybean importer in the region. In 2023, Indonesia imported 2.7 million metric tons, or nearly 99.2 million bushels, of soybeans for food use, and more than 85 percent was U.S. Soy. This total includes exports originating from Indiana soybean fields.
Making tempeh
Food processors make tempeh using soybeans with the hulls removed. Most tempeh-production facilities receive soybeans in large bags.
First, they fill large barrels with soybeans and water to swell the soybeans. Then, they dry the soybeans on a screen and work them with paddles to reach the desired consistency.
After working the soybeans, they measure and bag them in rectangular bags. Then, they add the yeast that ferments the soybeans and let them sit for about 48 hours. By then, the soybeans have become solid, holding their shape in the small bricks that tempeh is known for.
At the same time, national tempeh consumption reached close to 1.3 billion kilograms, or nearly 2.9 billion pounds. That put per capita consumption at 7.3 kilograms, or 16.1 pounds, according to the 2023 National Socio-Economic Survey Report from BPS Statistics Indonesia.
Holding a brick of tempeh from a market in Indonesia are, from left, Indiana farmers Jim Douglas of Flat Rock, Nick Stewart of Greensburg and Joe Baldwin of Union City.
About 1 kilogram, or 2.2 pounds, of soybeans is required to produce 1.6 kilograms, or 3.5 pounds, of tempeh, translating to a total of 1.27 million metric tons, or nearly 46.7 million bushels, of soybeans required for tempeh production in 2023.
The finished tempeh can then be sold fresh, or frozen for longer-term storage.
Best practices for making tempeh
Since 2008, USSEC has collaborated with the Indonesian Tempeh Forum (ITF), which promotes the cultural heritage of and consumer appreciation for tempeh, to support the industry.
About 112,000 micro, small and mediumsized businesses employ roughly 240,000 people to make tempeh locally throughout the country, according to Indonesia’s 2016 Economic Census. Most enterprises produce between 20 and 100 kilograms, or between 44 and 220 pounds, of tempeh daily.
The tempeh fermentation process involves live microbes, making adherence to best production practices essential.
With ITF, USSEC offers technical assistance and regular training courses to enhance production methods and tempeh quality, thanks in part to soy checkoff funding. For example, maintaining clean production and fermentation rooms with controlled movement between dry and wet areas is essential.
This support aims to enhance production methods and product quality, especially when using U.S. Soy. Supporting small businesses also ensures Indonesian consumers can continue to enjoy tempeh.
Celebrating cultural heritage
Tempeh holds immense significance in Indonesia. That’s why it has been nominated for recognition as a cultural heritage food by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (USESCO).
UNESCO recognition would affirm tempeh’s cultural importance. It would also encourage continued innovation and improvement in production practices. Globally, acceptance of this nomination would place tempeh alongside other culturally iconic foods like Japan’s miso and natto.
USSEC is proud to support the UNESCO nomination process for tempeh through providing information and building awareness.
At the same time USSEC remains committed to supporting tempeh production and small-scale producers across Indonesia. The nomination results are expected to be announced in 2025.
This potential recognition is one more reason to try tempeh when visiting Indonesia or an Indonesian restaurant like Mayasari Indonesian Grill in Greensburg, Ind. Or, look for frozen tempeh from companies like Tempe Azaki, an Indonesian company that works closely with USSEC, in local stores to try it anytime.
To make tempeh, soybeans are soaked and dried on screens, then worked with paddles to the proper consistency, as shown in this workroom at a tempeh factory in Indonesia.
USMEF Conference reports U.S. pork exports are on pace to set new record
BY JIM DOUGLAS AND MARK LEGAN USMEF Executive Committee members, Indiana farmers
More than 200 members of the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) gathered in Tucson, Ariz., recently to set priorities, learn about efforts to promote U.S. beef, pork and lamb around the globe and elect new leadership at the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference.
Steve Hanson, a rancher and cattle feeder from Elsie, Neb., was elected chair, succeeding Minnesota pork and grain producer Randy Spronk.
Hanson praised USMEF for bringing together a wide range of agricultural sectors to support a common goal – something he said was fully on display in Tucson.
“That’s one of the best things about USMEF conferences –the idea that I can attend the Pork Committee and Exporter Committee meetings, to broaden my perspective,” he said. “Yesterday, I sat in on the Exporter Committee meeting so I could learn more about the challenges they face moving product overseas. Those guys have some real hurdles, and this meeting gave me a much greater appreciation for what they do.”
highest value number on record. Beef sales have been buoyed by a rebound in tourism across Asia which has bolstered foodservice that had been slow to bounce back from COVID.
Reviewing U.S. export markets
A highlight of the conference was a producer panel looking at the importance of seeing our export markets firsthand to engage importers, consumers and government officials.
Bob Ruth, a pork producer from Pennsylvania and past president of the National Pork Board, Cattlemen’s Beef Board member Ross Havens of Iowa and Don Pemberton, former president of Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association shared their experiences with USMEF delegations in Korea and Japan. Spronk moderated the panel discussion and shared his own observations from overseas markets.
Indiana farmers and staff attending the 2024 USMEF Strategic Planning Conference in Tucson, Ariz., were, from left, ISA Senior Director of Market Development Ed Ebert, ISA Market Development Project Manager Maggie Hancock, ICMC Board member Jerry Osterholt, former National Pork Board President Heather Hill, USMEF Executive Committee member Mark Legan, USMEF Executive Committee member Jim Douglas and Indiana Farm Bureau Director of Public Policy Andy Tauer.
USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom shared a positive outlook for red meat exports around the world, noting that pork exports this year are on pace to set a new record on both volume and value. Export sales of U.S. pork are expected to top $8.6 billion.
And while beef exports have been limited by supply constraints, they are still expected to post the second
Pemberton described in detail being surrounded by social media influencers in Korea, eager to learn his grilling technique and share it with their online audiences. He was then surprised by how much attention he received upon his return to Kentucky.
“When I got back to Kentucky, I prepared a trip report and presentation for Kentucky Cattlemen and Kentucky Beef Council. And the next thing I knew, I was on a speaking tour around the state. Because I’d spent 48 hours in Seoul and 48 hours in Tokyo, I was now considered an expert on foreign trade,” laughed Pemberton. “As I presented at more of these
meetings, I realized their great interest in how global trade affects them, and more importantly, their checkoff investment. With what I was able to share, they could better understand how their checkoff dollars are invested in global marketing and what a difference this is making.”
Ruth strongly urged those in attendance to make the time to visit our trading partners.
“My advice would be, take a trip. The intelligence that you pick up in the markets is a very valuable experience,” said Ruth.
“The other thing is, and Don had talked about it, and Ross talked about it, is that our customers want to hear from you, the producer. The influence that you have is phenomenal, and your presence there really helps USMEF. It’s going to be valuable for you, and it will be valuable for our industry as well.”
It is a sentiment we strongly share. We both had the opportunity this year to visit Indonesia and see the strong potential for pork sales there. Jim also traveled with USMEF to Japan to interact with consumers there and see firsthand the strong demand for high quality U.S. pork. It is vital for us to learn from our customers and for our customers to know and trust the farmers behind the U.S. product.
Soy growers support for protein exports
United Soybean Board CEO Lucas Lentsch spoke to the Feedgrains and Oilseeds Caucus to underscore the support of soy growers for protein exports.
“I think when you’re looking at return on investment, it’s about market access, and the trend lines are all in the right direction,” Lentsch said.
“If we’re looking at pork and beef being up year-over-year. And the reality is, in a world where tariffs and market access may change with policy, you have to have relationships. And so sometimes the return on investment may be tangible, sometimes it may be intrinsic. That intrinsic value is having a relationship in country that allows you to continue to work through any trade barriers that may exist.”
Other highlights of the Strategic Planning Conference included post-election updates and analysis from Jim Wiesemeyer of Pro Farmer and a look at U.S.-Mexico trade relations as both governments transition to new administrations.
Guest speaker Mateo Diego, a partner with the trade consulting firm AGON, emphasized that the United States and Mexico generally enjoy productive and mutually beneficial trade, but cautioned that there are “irritants” that could disrupt this relationship. He noted that the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is up for review in 2026 and urged conference attendees to speak up and voice their support for USMCA.
USMEF members will next meet at the organization’s Spring Conference, May 21-23 in Fort Worth, Texas.
Bob Ruth of the National Pork Board, Don Pemberton of the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association and Ross Havens of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board share their experiences on overseas trade missions with USMEF.
Jim Douglas is a farmer from Flat Rock, Ind. Douglas is a United Soybean Board (USB) member, and he represents USB on the USMEF Executive Committee.
Mark Legan is a farmer from Coatesville, Ind. Legan is a board member of the Indiana Soybean Alliance, the state’s soybean checkoff program. He is a member of the USMEF Executive Committee representing oilseed producers.
USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom addresses the general session.
USB CEO Lucas Lentsch addresses the Feedgrains and Oilseeds Caucus.
USGC connects with Mexican customers at Grain Handling and Storage Roadshow
BY WILL MARGERUM U.S. Grains Council
U.S. Grains Council (USGC) staff recently traveled across Mexico for the 2024 Grain Handling and Storage Roadshow, conducting a series of informative presentations on proper grain handling and storage methods that can preserve grain quality and save money throughout the supply chain.
USGC Mexico Director Heidi Bringenberg, USGC Manager of Global Strategies and Trade Alexander Grabois and USGC Mexico Consultant Pedro Kadota spoke to end-users of U.S. feed grains in the Mexican states of Yucatan, Jalisco and Veracruz.
Dr. Klein Ileleji of Purdue University, Pete Mueller, manager at Fumigation Services & Supply Inc. and Aaron Maple, superintendent at Kokomo Grain Co., both Indianabased agribusinesses, joined the group to offer their first-hand experiences working in the U.S. feed grain industry.
purchasers and producers in the country we are not resting on our laurels and will always support and grow the Mexican market throughout the entire supply chain.”
Seminars began with welcome addresses from Bringenberg and Grabois and the content of speaker presentations centered on the importance of proactive grain storage management and new technologies for monitoring grain supplies.
The USGC recently hosted the 2024 Grain Handling and Storage Roadshow in Mexico to share technologies and techniques for preserving grain quality. Pictured at a feed mill in Merida, Mexico, USGC Manager of Global Strategies and Trade Alexander Grabois (center, near fan) speaks to participants about the qualities of U.S. corn and proper transport and storage methods at production facilities.
“We’re excited to have seen great attendance and active participation from feed millers and beef, swine and poultry producers during the roadshow, allowing the Council to share storage and handling techniques that prevent grain quality deterioration and demonstrate value,” Bringenberg said.
“Mexico is U.S. agriculture’s largest trading partner, and it’s important to show
In the afternoon, Maple and Mueller shared their perspectives as U.S. producers and agribusiness representatives in overseeing large-scale feed grain operations and how to properly fumigate storage facilities.
Each seminar ended with group discussions and Q&A segments for attendees to gain more detailed information about the challenges facing their farms and businesses.
“The roadshow allowed participants to directly interact with industry experts and peers while gaining practical knowledge they can implement immediately to stay ahead of industry trends and competitors,” Grabois said.
“Improving the standard of grain storage operations in Mexico will build further consumer confidence in U.S. feed grains by maintaining the superior quality of U.S. corn and other products.”
Aaron Maple
Vietnam projects provide opportunity for Indiana corn and soybean farmers
BY AMIE SIMPSON
With a population of more than 100 million people and a rapidly growing middle class that is demanding higher levels of animal protein, Vietnam is providing market opportunities for Indiana corn and soybean farmers.
Vietnam is the United States’ 10th-largest export market for agricultural and food products. According to the USDA, exports of U.S. ag and related products to Vietnam totaled nearly $3.5 billion in 2023.
Chris Eck, an Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA) board member, said Vietnam is an emerging market with its young population contributing to the country’s economic growth.
“We’re talking about a country that has a population around onethird the size of the U.S. population and its average age is in the low 30s,” he said. “So, it’s a growing population plus they have a growing middle class, which means more protein consumption and more chances for growth for U.S. agricultural exports.”
Eck grows seed corn, corn, soybeans and wheat in Boggstown, Ind.
A delegation of farmers representing ISA and the Indiana Corn Marketing Council (ICMC) recently saw checkoff projects taking place in Vietnam in an effort to move more Indiana corn and soybeans.
Vietnamese cuisine adds U.S. pork
One of the efforts supported by ISA and ICMC through the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) is the Porkstars Challenge that took place on Sept. 9 in Ho Chi Mihn City. During the event, three accomplished Vietnamese chefs teamed up with social media influencers to prepare creative and delicious dishes using U.S. pork spareribs.
The competition helps culinary chefs get familiar with utilizing their skills to prepare U.S. chicken. Twelve teams of two culinary chefs competed in the contest in September in Danang.
Jenna Scott, an ISA board member, said there are opportunities for Indiana farmers to meet the needs of the Vietnamese population.
“(Vietnamese consumers) are looking for high quality products because they can’t produce them all themselves,” she said. “The U.S. is looking to be a partner and showcase that we have high quality proteins and sustainably grown animals and sustainably grown crops to fulfill those needs.”
Scott grows corn and soybeans and operates a specialty greenhouse production for vegetable transplants alongside her father in Gaston, Ind.
The chefs showcased U.S. pork as a quality meat that can be used in traditional Vietnamese dishes and influencers helped raise awareness and create excitement in consumers and the foodservice industry. The showcase was livestreamed on social media channels to further its reach.
ISA and ICMC is proud to work with USMEF as it creates new opportunities and develops existing international markets for U.S. red meat. In 2023, 29.6 percent of the total amount of pork and pork variety meat produced in the U.S. was exported, a new record. The average export value for each hog marketed in the U.S. was $63.76.
“This chef competition event is a great example of how the U.S. soybean sector partners with the pork industry through USMEF in developing international markets for U.S. pork,” said John Hinners, USMEF senior vice president of industry relations. “We are working to differentiate U.S.
pork’s quality in Vietnam and the USMEF chef’s competition helps us accomplish this goal.”
Indiana corn and soybean growers raise the feed to grow U.S. pigs and ultimately benefit from increased demand for U.S. pork. As there is more demand for U.S. pork, there is more demand for Indiana crops.
U.S. Pork was well represented during the event with National Pork Board (NPB) President Al Wulfekuhle, a producer from Iowa, and Courtney Knupp, NPB vice president of international market development, in attendance.
Jackie Ponder, a pork producer from Greenwood, Ind., represented the Indiana Pork Producers Association during the trade mission. “We feed great Indiana corn and soybeans to our animals, and it makes delicious food. It’s very exciting to see how the people of Vietnam have embraced the high quality of U.S. pork,” she said. “These events that Indiana Soybean Alliance and the Indiana Corn Marketing Council sponsor here in Vietnam are a wonderful way to introduce the Vietnamese people to the high quality and the good nutrition of U.S. pork.”
She added that Vietnam will continue to be an important market for U.S. pork for years to come.
“The Vietnamese people are thriving. The younger population is very excited to eat healthily, and as the country grows and the economy strengthens, there are new people entering the middle class that are going to be able to afford higher quality protein,” Ponder said. “That is a wonderful entry for U.S. pork because it is high quality. We
beat our competitors around the world for that and these projects by Indiana Soybean Alliance and Indiana Corn Marketing Council have really tapped into that.”
Scott saw firsthand how investments in Vietnam are benefiting Indiana farmers. “Investing in projects like Porkstars benefits Indiana farmers because the more corn and soybean meal we can move through meat exports, the more we can sustain our growing crops,” she said. “We want to continue to promote the use of high-quality U.S. meat in Vietnamese dishes. It’s a very important market to us.”
Another benefit to Indiana farmers during the competition was the use of high oleic soybean cooking oil by the participating chefs. Indiana farmers are the leaders in growing high oleic soybeans, planting nearly 850,000 acres in 2023.
Farmers receive a premium for growing high oleic soybeans. Increased demand for high oleic soybean oil benefits those growers and consumers. Eck grows high oleic soybeans on his farm.
“The benefits of high oleic soybean oil are pretty easy,” he said. “It is sustainably grown, and it has double the fry life. It doesn’t carry flavors over, it’s heart healthy, and you can cook it at a higher temperature, as well.”
As Porkstars seeks to elevate U.S. pork in Vietnamese cuisine, the event has continued to grow and evolve. The chefs and influencers who participated in this year’s showcase include: Chef Le Xuan Tam and Vu Gia Bao, representing the northern team; Chef Dinh Son Truc and
ISA Director Jenna Scott spoke about the importance of working with partners like U.S. Meat Export Federation to create new opportunities for red meat in countries like Vietnam, ultimately returning value to the corn and soybean growers who raise the feed for those animals.
Three accomplished Vietnamese chefs teamed up with social media influencers to prepare creative and delicious dishes using U.S. pork spareribs.
the contest. Ehrbar said the young chefs continue to advance and create U.S. poultry dishes with an impressive presentation.
Chef Doan Van Tuan, the executive chef of the Furmara Resort, was also a judge for the Best Poultry Challenge. “This year’s contest was even better than the first competition, because the young chefs had more knowledge about incorporating U.S. chicken into Vietnamese dishes and they also incorporated high oleic soybean cooking oil,” he said.
ICMC President Tim Gauck, a farmer in Greensburg, Ind., said the contest highlighted the importance of the Vietnamese market and the opportunity for U.S. poultry in the country. He said it’s important to evaluate checkoff investments and see what is or isn’t working.
“When I think about why I visit these markets, I think of anyone on the farm that comes to sell you seed, fertilizer or equipment. They come to see what you like, what you don’t like, and get to know you better,” he explained. “I see ourselves in that situation. We’re here to let them know who we are as Indiana farmers and that we’re interested in how they’re using our product and looking for ways to continually improve products to make that happen.”
Phan Ngan Ha on the central team; and Chef Cam Thien Lon and Ong Chu Nguoi Bong on the southern team. Proceeds from the showcase will support children in Vietnam through the Nuoi Em project.
Vietnamese chefs try U.S. chicken
ISA and ICMC also support projects in Vietnam through the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council (USAPEEC), an organization that promotes exports of U.S. poultry and eggs around the world.
The Best Poultry Challenge aims to increase demand for U.S. poultry by increasing awareness and favorability for the product among culinary students from universities and colleges across Vietnam who have won top prizes in previous USAPEEC cooking contests. Twelve teams of two culinary chefs competed in the contest on Sept. 12 in Danang, Vietnam.
The organization recognizes that culinary students are the future of the foodservice industry. A seminar and cooking demonstration by the chef judges took place ahead of the contest so that the students could better familiarize themselves with U.S. poultry.
Executive Chef and USAPEEC Food Consultant Norbert Ehrbar was a judge in this year’s competition. He said there’s opportunity for increased usage and consumption of U.S. poultry in Vietnam.
“It’s a high-quality protein that’s low in fat — it’s a healthy product,” he said. “Vietnam is very cost driven, and chicken is a relatively low-cost item to use in their cuisine.”
There were several new and interesting dishes during
ISA Senior Director of Market Development Ed Ebert said the value for Indiana farmer to see these projects in person can’t be overstated.
“It’s important for Indiana farmers who are helping support these projects to get here and see the work but then also become ambassadors for other Indiana farmers,” he said. “They’re able to talk about how sustainably corn and soybeans produced in Indiana are so important to these distant markets.”
Other representatives visiting the Vietnamese market also included ISA board director Joe Stoller, a farmer from Bremen, Ind., and John Baugh, director of agricultural services and regulations at Purdue University and an exofficio member of the ISA Board of Directors.
Indiana Corn Marketing Council President Tim Gauck spoke to students at a tourist culinary school.
Al Wulfekuhle, a producer from Iowa and president of the National Pork Board; Jackie Ponder, a pork producer from Greenwood representing the Indiana Pork Producers Association; and Jenna Scott, a farmer near Gaston and an ISA board member toured a supermarket during the trade mission.
Indiana soybean, corn checkoffs represented at USDA-led agribusiness mission in Vietnam
USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor led an agribusiness trade mission to Vietnam in September. Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA) and Indiana Corn Marketing Council (ICMC) CEO Courtney Kingery represented the organizations on the trade mission.
“Vietnam is a critical market to Indiana farmers,” Kingery said. “We continue to build and maintain relationships in Vietnam and this trade mission provided the opportunity to do just that. We are selective and only participate in trade missions to markets that are growing and will benefit Indiana corn and soybean growers.”
The delegation consisted of 60 U.S. agribusiness and farm organizations and nine state departments of agriculture aiming to develop and expand business opportunities with importers in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries.
The trade mission coincided with the first anniversary of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Speaking to delegates during the trade mission, Taylor said that the USDA is committed to keeping U.S. agriculture at the forefront of its trading relationship with Vietnam.
According to the USDA, exports of U.S. agricultural products are recognized by Vietnamese consumers, importers and retailers for their reliability, quality and sustainability. U.S. pork, beef, poultry, tree nuts and fresh fruit are in high demand in the country’s food processing, retail and restaurant sectors.
ISA’s Joe Stoller discusses value of USSEC’s Soy Excellence Centers
ISA Board Member Joe Stoller, a farmer from Bremen, Ind., represented Indiana during the Southeast Asia U.S. Agricultural Cooperators Conference in Ho Chi Mihn City, Vietnam. Stoller serves on the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) Soy Excellence Center (SEC) Global Advisory Panel.
“My biggest take away from the (trade mission) to Vietnam is that there are a lot of opportunities for U.S. soybeans,” he said. “Vietnam has a young population and a growing middle class that is looking for protein.”
During the event, Stoller also joined some fellow farmers on a panel to talk about how they are growing crops sustainably. The firstgeneration farmer uses reduced-tillage and no-tillage where possible to reduce passes across the field.
“It’s important for farmers to participate in events like this and put a face to the product that customers are buying,” he said. “We are using sustainable practices to grow a quality crop that people can depend on.”
The 20th anniversary of the Southeast Asia U.S. Agricultural Cooperators Conference saw more than 450 participants. The annual event, organized by USSEC, U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and U.S. Wheat Associates, brings together importers, end-users and suppliers of U.S. soybeans, corn, wheat and their co-products.
Indiana Soybean Alliance and Indiana Corn Marketing Council CEO Courtney Kingery, right, represented the organizations on the trade mission. Indiana was well represented with Indiana State Department of Agriculture’s Drew Sherman and Katie Nelson also participating in the trade mission.
Joe Stoller spoke on an agricultural producer’s panel during the S.E. Asia U.S. Agricultural Cooperators Conference in Vietnam.
NCGA concentrates on sustainability efforts as growers work to access aviation market
BY SEAN ARIANS NCGA Vice President of Sustainable Production and Value Chain Engagement
In January, we will swear in a new president and members of Congress. With these changes will come new leadership and direction at some of the government’s top agencies.
Among the issues top of mind at the National Corn Growers Association is protecting the sustainable aviation tax credit and making it accessible to farmers.
The tax credit, which was a product of the Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, provides tax incentives for biofuel producers who wish to sell into the emerging aviation sector. This provides potential new demand for corn growers while also lowering the carbon footprint of the airline industry.
We have experienced many frustrations since the Biden administration tasked the U.S. Department of Treasury, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and EPA, among other agencies, with establishing the requirements for accessing the tax credit.
When they released the first version of the standard, these agencies established a carbon intensity score for farmers to meet, which is a reasonable development. However, the agencies would later issue guidelines specifying that growers must use a bundle of so-called climate-smart practices for their commodities to be eligible for the tax credit.
There is just one major problem with such an approach: Certain climate conditions preclude the use of some of these specified practices. For example, some climates are inhospitable to cover crop growth, one of the many bundling requirements for accessing the tax credit.
The Biden administration is taking stakeholder feedback as it reconsiders aspects of its original criteria and prepares to release updated guidance on phase two of this policy. Our team at NCGA is working collectively with policymakers, agencies, and supply chain partners to communicate to Biden administration officials the need to provide farmers with flexibility on these bundling practices. We also plan to make the case with the new administration and Congress that they should not revoke this tax credit.
While we continue this work with elected officials, farmers should understand two things about corn qualifying as an SAF feedstock, as it stands today: First, since we are waiting on the revised guidelines, there is technically no carbon intensity score that qualifies today for the tax credits unless you’re one of the few participating in the first wave of this program(40B). Secondly, there are many free programs available to farmers who wish to obtain their baseline scores, so there’s no need to pay for one. For example –Iowa State released a CI Calculator here: www.extension. iastate.edu/agdm/crops/html/a1-80.html
The sustainable aviation tax credit is illustrative of the requirements we will have to navigate as we cultivate new markets. Market development provides our organization the opportunity to engage in more research, direction, and partnership with agencies to ensure data is available and the full circle of impact is considered so farmers and agriculture don’t lose out.
We know that developing new sources of corn demand is more important than ever. NCGA and our state corn grower affiliates are committed to pursuing the most promising avenues for growth on behalf of the nation’s corn farmers.
ISA sponsors annual Jingle Rails holiday display for visitors to Eiteljorg Museum
Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg Museum is a favorite holiday tradition in Indianapolis and is open now through Jan. 20, 2025. Jingle Rails consists of nine G-scale trains crafted out of natural materials and adorned with holiday decorations and lighting.
This Christmas display is sponsored by the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA), the state’s soybean checkoff program.
The Indiana State Fairgrounds is one of the more popular displays in Jingle Rails, which includes a custom-built model of The Glass Barn, ISA mascot Bennie the Bean and the Normandy Barn.
The Glass Barn, unveiled at the 2013 Indiana State Fair, educates visitors to the Indiana State Fairgrounds about soybean farming. The Glass Barn uses engaging displays including a combine simulator, programs with farmers, and games to teach people about modern soybean farms.
“The Glass Barn is something that Indiana soybean farmers take pride in as an iconic piece of the State Fairgrounds,” said Ben Linder, ISA consumer outreach manager. “Hoosiers recognize the unique building and can share that amazing agricultural and educational artwork in the Jingle Rails exhibit.”
The exhibit is open Jan. 20, 2025, pen from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
“Visiting Fifth Third Bank Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg Museum is a cherished holiday tradition each year for so many families in Indianapolis and around the state,” said Eiteljorg President and CEO Kathryn Haigh. “We look forward to welcoming back returning visitors and meeting new ones at what has become one of Indianapolis’ most beloved holiday attractions.”
A cultural pillar for 34 years in downtown Indianapolis, the Eiteljorg Museum aims to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the arts, histories and cultures of the Native peoples of North America and of the American West. For more about the museum, go online to www.eiteljorg.org.
The exhibit is open Jan. 20, 2025, pen from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
The Indiana State Fairgrounds is one of the more popular displays in Jingle Rails, which includes a custom-built model of The Glass Barn, ISA mascot Bennie the Bean and the Normandy Barn.
Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg Museum is a favorite holiday tradition in Indianapolis and is open now through Jan. 20, 2025.
There is a relentless spirit that unites us all in agriculture - a conviction we can dream big and that together, we become unstoppable.
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
