Iowa Soybean Review | March 2023

March 2023

Celebrating Our Soy Leaders

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Executive Committee President Randy Miller, Lacona | D8 President-Elect Suzanne Shirbroun, Farmersburg | D3 Secretary Jeff Frank, Auburn | D4

MARCH 2023 | Vol. 35, No. 6

Treasurer Brent Swart, Spencer | D1 At-Large Director Tom Adam, Harper | D9

Board of Directors Chuck White, Spencer | D1 April Hemmes, Hampton | D2 Casey Schlichting, Clear Lake | D2 Rick Juchems, Plainfield | D3 Marty Danzer, Carroll | D4 Morey Hill, Madrid | D5 Dave Struthers, Collins | D5 Robb Ewoldt, Davenport | D6 Dave Walton, Wilton | D6 Scot Bailey, Anita | D7 Lee Brooke, Clarinda | D7 Warren Bachman, Osceola | D8 Pat Swanson, Ottumwa | D9 Tim Bardole, Rippey | At Large Steph Essick, Dickens | At Large Lindsay Greiner, Keota | At Large Brent Renner, Klemme | At Large American Soybean Association Board of Directors Steph Essick, Dickens Wayne Fredericks, Osage Morey Hill, Madrid Jeff Jorgenson, Sidney Pat Swanson, Ottumwa Dave Walton, Wilton United Soybean Board of Directors Tim Bardole, Rippey Robb Ewoldt, Davenport Lindsay Greiner, Keota April Hemmes, Hampton Brent Renner, Klemme Staff Credits Editor | Bethany Baratta Sr. Dir., Information & Education | Aaron Putze, APR Photographer | Joclyn Bushman Creative Design Coordinator | Susan Langman Writer | Joseph Hopper Writer | Jeff Hutton Writer | Kriss Nelson Public Relations Manager | Brock Johnston Iowa Soybean Review is published monthly by: Iowa Soybean Association 1255 SW Prairie Trail Parkway, Ankeny, Iowa 50023 (515) 251-8640 | iasoybeans.com E-mail: bbaratta@iasoybeans.com

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Advocate for Iowa Agriculture Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig: farmer, ag leader, market builder.

12

Meet a Rising Star Kesley Holdgrafer works to bridge the gap between consumers and farmers.

24

$400 Million Value Potential Collaborative research aims to increase soybean flower and pod retention.

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Rural Route 2

Iowa Soybean Review Editor Bethany Baratta reveals her word of the year.

On the Cover: Eight leaders were recently recognized at the Iowa Soybean Association's (ISA)

For advertising information contact Bethany Baratta at (515) 334-1020 or bbaratta@iasoybeans.com.

Winter Soy Summit with various leadership awards.

Comments and statewide news articles should be sent to the above address. Advertising space reservations must be made by the first day of the month preceding publication. In consideration of the acceptance of the advertisement, the agency and the advertiser must, in respect of the contents of the advertisement, indemnify and save the publisher harmless against any expense arising from claims or actions against the publisher because of the publication of the content of the advertisement.

their contributions.

This issue of the Iowa Soybean Review celebrates

Scan the QR Code to learn more about the winners.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 3

Executive Insights Kirk Leeds, ISA Chief Executive Off icer kleeds@iasoybeans.com

Crisis of Leadership

G

ood leaders are easy to recognize. They are empathetic, own setbacks and share successes. They care deeply about others and are good listeners. Most of all, leaders are problem solvers.

We are currently experiencing a crisis of competent leadership.

Look around. There’s not much problem solving going on. In its place, acrimony, fear mongering, blame, partisanship, excuses and finger pointing. And plenty of theatrics.

Countless books, podcasts, lectures and conferences are devoted to the subject of leadership. Amazing, given how much we continue to struggle with the topic.

A crisis of leadership leads to an inability to function effectively and can involve a multitude of organizations, from local schools and municipalities to the upper echelons of our federal government. Increasingly, I find myself asking, “Where have all the leaders gone?”

Perhaps the answer can be found within the pages of this edition of the Iowa Soybean Review.

Recently, eight very deserving individuals were recognized for

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their contributions to agriculture, communities and the soybean industry during the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) annual awards banquet.

As I listened intently to their accomplishments (also detailed in this publication), I was reminded that competent leaders do exist, especially in agriculture and the soybean industry.

Brian Kemp, ISA’s Legacy of Leadership Award recipient, is a fine example. Brian is the epitome of the quiet leader — someone who doesn’t get up each morning and shout from the mountaintops, “I’m a leader” but goes about the business of getting things done.

Leaders like Brian show up for the right reasons and do what needs to be done. They take time to think through an issue or problem so the right decision is made.

Then there’s Peter Mishek, ISA’s Friend of the Iowa Soybean Farmer Award recipient. Nearly 30 years ago, Peter began acting on a vision regarding Southeast Asia’s growth in population and income and the potential it held for Midwest soybean farmers. He rallied others to the cause. His foresight and leadership have forever changed the way the

soybean market looks and feels as exports intensify out of Grays Harbor and the Pacific Northwest.

Also recognized was Iowa Ag Secretary Mike Naig, our Advocate for Agriculture Award winner.

The Cylinder native and farmer transitioned from industry to deputy secretary and ultimately to the public office he now holds.

Mike has worked skillfully and successfully on a host of issues, from animal and poultry health to water quality and biofuels. He’s not afraid to put in the time and effort to get things done. As a result, his leadership and problem solving make a positive difference in the lives of every Iowan every day.

Brian, Peter, Mike and all ISA Award recipients are doers.

They’re humble and focused on results and improving the lives of others. Their standard is excellence. They remind us that during chaos and turmoil, good people are getting good things done.

Here’s hoping others take note and follow their examples.

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IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 5

Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig

THE AWARD RECOGNIZES THOSE WHO EFFECTIVELY AND ACCURATELY SHARE THE STORY OF MODERN AGRICULTURE; BUILD BRIDGES BETWEEN IOWA FARMERS AND CONSUMERS; AND BRING AWARENESS TO IOWA AGRICULTURE AND THE SOYBEAN INDUSTRY.

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uilding markets, strengthening Iowa’s economy by supporting its agricultural backbone, and connecting consumers and farmers.

For these reasons and more, the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) recently awarded Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig its Advocate for Iowa Agriculture Award.

Naig grew up on a farm in northwest Iowa near Cylinder and continues to be involved in the operation today. He is a graduate of Buena Vista University with degrees in biology and political science.

Elected Iowa Secretary of Agriculture in 2018, Naig previously served as the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture at the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS).

In a state where agriculture is a leading economic driver, Naig has demonstrated that protecting the air, soil and water is essential to Iowa’s success.

“A huge aspect of my work as Iowa Secretary of Agriculture is focused on building markets for Iowa products, whether that is locally, nationally or globally,” Naig says.

He recognizes the impact soybean farmers have on the state’s economy.

“Iowa is a worldwide leader in soybean production, and the numerous value-added products that are created from soybeans are critical to the ongoing strength of our economy,” he says. “One in five jobs in Iowa is connected to agriculture, and it’s impossible to imagine a strong Iowa economy without a strong agricultural economy.”

IDALS has partnered with ISA on many successful initiatives over the years, including the Clean Water in Iowa Starts Here campaign and others.

“I know we will continue to work closely together to sustainably improve water quality, protect our valuable soil, and build demand for soybeans and biofuels in the years ahead,” Naig says.

As ag secretary, Naig continues to lead efforts to expand economic opportunities for Iowans and is an advocate on behalf of the hardworking farmers who keep Iowa and the world fed and fueled.

BY JEFF HUTTON

“Advocating for agriculture is truly my passion and life’s calling,” he says.

Naig continues to be an advocate for attracting and retaining talent in Iowa’s thriving agriculture industry, encouraging them to pursue rewarding careers in the industry.

“Agriculture is truly the backbone of our state’s economy, and our hardworking, resilient, and innovative farm families are the bedrock of so many of our communities,” Naig says. “I have great respect for the Iowa Soybean Association and a strong appreciation for its important mission. From supporting farmers and being a leader on water quality initiatives to investing in cuttingedge research and growing markets for our products, the breadth of ISA’s work is impressive and impactful. I am truly honored to receive this Advocate for Iowa Agriculture Award from the association’s grassroots members.”

Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com

“Advocating for agriculture is truly my passion and life’s calling.”

Award presented by Bayer CropScience

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 7

POLICY CHAMPION AWA R D This award recognizes an Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) Advocate member with a proven track record of personally engaging elected leaders on issues and topics of consequence to the soybean industry.

The recipient is also involved in ISA activities that develop and amplify soybean policy and is recognized by their peers as a knowledgeable and trusted resource on soybean industry policy.

BY JOSEPH HOPPER

Champion Seed customer Tim Bardole recognized Jeff Ellis with the award at ISA's Winter Soy Summit.

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J

eff Ellis has been active with the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) for years, during which he’s been described as having “a selfless desire and willingness to help surface, debate and shape policy impacting Iowa agriculture and the soybean industry.” His peers in the industry have taken special notice of Ellis’ knowledge and practical attitude to policy and advocacy.

The Donnellson farmer was caught off guard when he learned he was the 2023 Policy Champion. It shouldn’t be surprising, though, given his involvement in policy,

advocacy and communication.

Ellis has served as an ISA policy delegate for four years, participated in the 2022-2023 Policy Leadership Fellowship class, represented Iowa in Syngenta’s Leadership at its BestSM program and has taken an active role engaging policymakers during the Iowa legislative session.

“When I was in college, I had a teacher say, ‘If you’re going to do something in life, be involved,’” Ellis says.

So, he and his wife Paula get involved.

“If you want someone to know your story, you have to tell them,” he says.

Well into his farming career, Ellis says it’s time to give back to the soybean industry.

“Once you hit a certain age, you need to start giving back,” he says. “Being involved and advocating for our industry is one way to give back.”

Ellis says promoting policy that’s good for soybean farmers can be complicated; it’s more than simply addressing a single major issue.

He adds, “Policy, farming and agriculture — it’s always a handful of things at one time.”

Contact Joseph Hopper at jhopper@iasoybeans.com

Award presented by Champion Seed

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 9

BY JOSEPH HOPPER

This award is presented to an Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) member who has actively grown their involvement in ISA programming, shown outstanding involvement in their district/state and demonstrated the skills and drive necessary to grow the Iowa soybean industry.

I

“ It ’s very rewarding to see the next generation of farmers and advocates become involved in organizations like the Iowa Soybean Association.”

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t should come as no surprise that Josh Henik is a strong, enthusiastic voice for agriculture — he teaches it every day.

Henik and his family grow soybeans and corn and raise cattle on the family’s seventh-generation farm near Mt. Vernon. He’s also an assistant professor of agronomy at Kirkwood Community College. There, his work has led to the development of several partnerships, including with the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Research Center for Farming Innovation.

Henik has also been heavily involved with ISA. He has served as an active participant in his District Advisory Council, as a member of the Policy Leadership Fellowship and was a candidate in the 2022 ISA director elections.

The farmer and educator was humbled and surprised to hear he was the recipient of the 2023 New Leader Award.

“My involvement in ag organizations has never been about seeking an award but rather trying to be involved and making a difference where I can,” says Henik. “Hopefully, I am giving back to the industry that’s given so much to my family and me.”

Henik earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in agronomy at Iowa State University. Outside of the farm and the classroom, he has served in various leadership roles with Linn County Farm Bureau, his parish council and on the board for the Southwest Iowa Agricultural Research Association. He’s also participated in Iowa Farm Bureau’s Ag Leaders Institute.

Henik is also recognized as a friend and resource to ISA’s producer services team, being a constant advocate and resource for new participation and recruitment to multiple ISA programs, such as the Soy Squad.

“One thing I’ve tried to do in my role working with young people is get them involved with ag organizations like ISA,” he says. “It’s very rewarding to see the next generation of farmers and advocates become involved in organizations like the Iowa Soybean Association.”

Contact Joseph Hopper at jhopper@iasoybeans.com

Award presented by Corteva

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 11

Agriculture and the soybean industry will always be important to my family and me and promoting it will always be a passion.

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This award includes a $2,000 education stipend presented to a high school senior or a currently enrolled college student demonstrating the skills and drive necessary to grow in the Iowa soybean industry.

BY KRISS NELSON

G

rowing up on a diversified grain and livestock operation near Bryant sparked Kesley Holdgrafer’s passion for advocating for the agricultural industry.

Holdgrafer is a sophomore at Iowa State University studying agricultural communications and public relations.

“I have started a solid foundation for promoting a vibrant future for our farm families and communities. However, I am not done yet,” says Holdgrafer, who was recently recognized with the Rising Star Award at the annual Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) Winter Soy Summit. “The skyscraper is yet to be built on that foundation.”

Holdgrafer aspires to be a successful communications and marketing specialist for a commodity group. “Agriculture and the soybean industry will always be important to my family and me and promoting it will always be a passion,” she says.

During her freshman year of high school, she was invited to join CAC Media Group, where she traveled across the U.S., facilitating agricultural conferences and TV segments for RFD-TV, interviewing industry leaders and authoring magazine articles.

She also helped host weekly ag radio shows, hosting and producing a biweekly AgriVision television show.

“The entire experience was life-changing,” says Holdgrafer.

“I am forever grateful to my English teacher Miss Jenna Stevens and my mom for continually telling me agriculture is where I belong.”

For the past five years, Holdgrafer has written a weekly column, “Kesley’s Corral,” for the Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman’s Clinton County news section.

“It’s not only a great platform used to write a fun, upbeat article people like to read, but it’s a way I can reach out to consumers and talk about production agriculture and what we do on the farm,” she says.

Holdgrafer is entering her third year of a crop-share partnership with her brother and neighbor.

“I have learned firsthand how to be a steward of the land, successfully raising a crop while maintaining adequate soil fertility levels,” she says. “I can utilize this personal experience to enhance my story in promoting Iowa's soybean industry and the agricultural industry as a whole.”

This past summer, Holdgrafer was the Iowa Beef Industry Council’s communication and marketing intern.

There she was introduced to other professionals in Iowa’s commodity groups.

“I learned how each commodity group works together to strengthen Iowa’s agricultural industry,” she says. “I especially witnessed this through the Iowa Food & Family Project.” That experience has fed Holdgrafer’s desire to continue communicating to the public — especially to consumers.

“I want to continue to advocate for this amazing industry,” she says. “Something we need right now is others to advocate that can help bridge the gap between consumers and producers. This award will continue to drive me to do that.”

Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com

Award presented by Farm Credit Services of America IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 13

Suzanne Shirbroun enjoys some fun during group discussions

Peter Mishek during his award video

Soy Squad member Brayden Beinhart reflects on a policy discussion at Soy Summit

Jeff Frank glances for a quick photo at Soy Summit

SOY SNAPS

BY JOCLYN BUSHMAN

Pat Swanson engages in the I&E Committee meeting

Gov. Kim Reynolds shares updates at Soy Summit

Renilda Mishek’s documents her husband’s award

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The producer services team geared up for the two-day summit

After the Summit, Soy Squad members toured the Iowa capital

Mike Naig smiles as he accepts his award

Many accomplishments and recognitions took place during the Soy Summit

Aimee Bissell and Bre Wagner catch up during some downtime

Many handshakes were given of “hellos”, “congratulations” and “see you laters”

Kirk Leeds, Megan Decker, and Michael Dolch at the Soy Summit

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 15

BY JEFF HUTTON

This award recognizes someone who has shown a deep understanding of agricultural issues; supports Iowa soybean farmers through their actions and efforts; and demonstrates commitment to improving the competitiveness of Iowa soybean farmers.

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eter Mishek is the consummate networker, relationship builder and soybean trader who has devoted more than three decades of service to the soybean industry.

In 1996, he founded Mishek Inc., a soybean trade consulting company.

He’s also managed projects with a farmer-owned cooperative, the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and other industry stakeholders. His merchandising and consulting efforts have built preference and purchases of U.S. soy.

During Mishek’s time pounding the pavement and crisscrossing the globe, Iowa production of the oilseed has increased substantially (from around 400 million bushels to 587 million in 2022), a trend mirrored nationally.

Mishek’s passion for serving soybean farmers, processors and buyers has played an important role in the industry’s growth and success.

Along the way, he’s visited more than 57 countries, spent countless hours at 35,000 feet, accompanied hundreds of farmer-led trade delegations and ridden in tour buses on more potholefilled roads than he cares to count.

Recently retired, Mishek is confident soybean farmers and leaders will continue to focus on

understanding customer goals — figuring out what they need and how to get homegrown soybeans from field to destination at the best price for them. His decades of service to Iowa soybean farmers and the industry have undoubtedly improved their competitiveness and boosted U.S. soy preference around the world.

“I will always remember the fun the farmers, Iowa staff and I had traveling together,” he says. “There are few jobs or situations where you get to meet such accomplished and friendly people while spending significant time learning about their lives, loves and challenges. We laughed a lot and enjoyed our times with each other and our customers. I made some great friends.”

Mishek says the hospitality of Iowa farmers is something he won’t soon forget.

“I could stop with a trade team from overseas at virtually any Iowa farm, and the farmer would always greet us like old friends despite being busy working and harvesting,” he says.

“Farmers’ interests in their customers and their hospitality is genuine and the best marketing tool.

“The award comes as a surprise to me,” Mishek says. “As a consultant, marketer and facilitator, my job has

always been to bring Iowa farmers to the forefront. I am humbled and grateful for the farmers’ recognition.

Since I have been in the farming service my entire career, either as a farmer’s cooperative trader or as an international marketing consultant to the Iowa Soybean Association, it is nice to know I have made some impact on their business.”

He hopes the work he’s done with and for farmers will resonate with customers in the decades to come.

“My goal has always been to help the farmers and their customers embrace each other’s individual character, expertise, humor and humanity,” Mishek says. “This is the best way to position our product quality. Like putting a crop in, it must be done each year under different circumstances and with different people; it is a lot of work. Hopefully, my legacy will be that Iowa farmers will continue to focus and work hard to make their international customers their future partners and friends.”

Aaron Putze, APR, contributed to this story.

Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com

Award presented by Cargill

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 17

The award recognizes an Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) member who demonstrates a commitment to environmental performance practices; works with ISA through the Research Center for Farming Innovation and/or the Soil and Water Outcomes Fund; and shows leadership in the use of precision agriculture tools and technology.

BY JEFF HUTTON

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yan Vavroch of Elberon is an Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) farmermember and business owner making strides in implementing new conservation practices to preserve and build soil health and reduce nutrient loss from his fields.

He understands there is an upfront investment to implement conservation practices, but believes they will pay off.

Vavroch is encouraged by the progress he is already seeing in his fields. Seeing the reduction of soil loss is motivating, he says, because it shows that the inputs he’s invested in are being used where they’re intended.

He continues to trial various cover crop application methods to find the most efficient way to implement conservation practices.

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“On our farm, using no-till, minimum till and cover crops have improved our operation,” he says.

“The cover crops reduce erosion and improve weed control. The changes in tillage practices reduce fuel consumption, wear on equipment and free up time for other tasks.”

Working with the Soil and Water Outcomes Fund the past two years has given Vavroch a better understanding of the environmental footprint of the commodities he grows. He uses the findings to calibrate aspects of his operation to further reduce nitrogen, phosphorus and emissions from his practices and sequester CO2 from the atmosphere.

Vavroch is a respected voice for other farmers within his community, and he shares his efforts on the farm with non-ag audiences to show the steps being made to be more environmentally friendly while continuing to feed an increasing global population.

He also fully understands that farmers face different challenges when changing practices within their operation, especially new farmers.

“The future of soybean production is better than ever,” Vavroch says. “Advancements in biodiesel in particular could be a real game changer for demand and local markets.”

Outside of his work on the farm, Vavroch has served as the president of Tama Benton Cooperative, a board member of the Benton County Corn Growers and on several school board committees in the Benton Community School District.

He accepts ISA’s Environmental Leader Award with pride.

“The Environmental Leadership Award is an honor to receive,” Vavroch says. “It’s our job as farmers to protect our greatest asset and leave it better for generations to come.”

Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com

Award presented by Agri Drain

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 19

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This award recognizes an individual, organization or company who has demonstrated commitment to improving the competitiveness of Iowa soybean farmers, shown outstanding leadership in the use of precision agriculture tools and technology and has worked to discover, validate and effectively manage practices to improve profitability.

BY KRISS NELSON

A

J Blair of Dayton has significantly contributed to the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) understanding of managing profitability when adopting soil health-promoting systems.

Since Blair’s involvement with ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI) began in 2008, his commitment to on-farm trials and collaboration with staff agronomists has grown.

“AJ is a very innovative farmer,” says Scott Nelson, ISA senior field services program manager. “As an RCFI collaborator, AJ continues to assist us in discovering new management practices to increase yield under cover crops, no-till and more.”

No matter what’s involved, Blair is always willing to be an innovative voice who works collaboratively with researchers, including RCFI staff, to improve the competitiveness of Iowagrown soybeans.

Blair became familiar with RCFI opportunities while serving as a director on the ISA board.

“I trust the people at ISA; they provide unbiased research and agronomic advice,” he says. “They have taught me to look at data, ignore a lot of the noise and advertising, think more critically, and be open to trying things. We do what we need to do to be better. We push that envelope.”

For the past six years, Blair has conducted a long-term cover crop trial allowing RCFI researchers to measure soil health changes that may accompany continuous cover cropping.

He is also a leading Iowa farmer in drainage water recycling. In 2022, structures were completed on his farm to collect drainage water for later season irrigation.

“The benefits of this system are significantly reduced nutrient losses from his farm and increased yields via irrigation in the summer,” says Nelson.

Blair has also participated in tile monitoring, seeking to validate changes in water quality and soil health resulting from his in-field efforts as well as other conservation projects.

These are farmer decisions that impact profitability and improve the future success and competitiveness of all Iowa soybean growers.

“I don’t look at it as me helping other farmers. I look at it as other farmers helping me,” he says. “There is a lot of value coming back to me from other trials and the analytics ISA has behind the data.”

This information aids in decision making, he adds.

“You can talk to a neighbor about various practices or trials, but you really can’t compare; there are too many aspects,” Blair says. “I need to do a trial on my own farm to understand the data, and if there’s enough data to support the change, then I can make the changes. I look to the bigger group of trials and data when I’m debating a change in a practice.”

Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com

Award presented

by John Deere

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 21

Legacy of

LEADERSHIP

BY KRISS NELSON

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The Legacy of Leadership award is presented to an Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) member who has established a history of taking an active role in advancing the goals of ISA, represented ISA positively and professionally and continuously demonstrated a passion and commitment for growing the soybean industry in Iowa.

S

ibley soybean and corn producer Brian Kemp has demonstrated a lifelong commitment and passion for the soybean industry, spanning local, state, national and international leadership positions.

“I am honored to be recognized with the Legacy of Leadership Award,” says Kemp. “I appreciate being recognized by my peers for the time, energy and leadership I have provided to the soybean industry in Iowa, nationally as an American Soybean Association (ASA) director and internationally as a U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) director.”

Kemp is a former County Agricultural Extension Agent and has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Iowa State University. He led the Osceola County Farm Bureau and the Iowa Farmers as the president of each organization.

But perhaps his largest footprint is in the soybean industry.

Kemp served as president of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) in 2013-2014. He also served as an ASA director until his recent retirement. He currently serves on the Trade Policy and International Affairs Advocacy Committee and represents ASA as a USSEC director.

“Representing the soybean industry and my fellow producers for more than 20 years has been a privilege,” says Kemp. “As I look back at my first Iowa Soybean Promotion Board meeting, I am amazed at the changes, growth and improvement I’ve been part of with the Iowa

Soybean Association. Serving as president of ISA marks one of the soybean career highlights for me.”

Kemp’s leadership and advocacy on behalf of Iowa soybean farmers played a critical role in establishing the Iowa Soybean Research Center at Iowa State University (ISU). This collaboration brought ISA, ISU and private industry partners together to enhance the competitiveness of soybeans.

“I’ve had several paths to leadership in agriculture to choose from over my career,” he says. “I sincerely feel the one I chose, serving the soybean industry, has been the most rewarding for me and has had the biggest impact.”

Kemp’s ongoing leadership and commitment to the soybean farmers have been invaluable to the success of ISA and the industry.

“I was involved in issues that were making a difference to U.S. soybean producers and the soybean industry,” he says. “Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of working with an impressive group of fellow directors, staff members, and industry and government officials. I have made lifelong friendships and relationships.”

Kemp currently serves as a Township Trustee, chairman of the Sibley-Ocheyedan High School Ag Education Fund governing board and on his church’s governing board.

Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com

Award presented

by Stine Seed Company

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 23

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FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND RESEARCH IDENTIFIES

$400 Million in Unrealized Soybean Value ARTICLE COURTESY OF THE UNITED SOYBEAN BOARD

I

n some instances, two heads are better than one. For a new multi-regional research effort, five organizations put their heads together to achieve full genetic yield potential of the soybean. A new partnership, the first of its kind in more than 40 years, aims to increase soybean flower and pod retention. This unrealized value could bring $50 per acre or $400 million in economic return for U.S. soybean farmers.

The collaborative focus will test how heat and drought impact flower bud retention.

Flower production dictates the final pod number and, ultimately, yield in soybeans.

The Atlantic Soybean Council, Mid-South Soybean Board, North Central Soybean Research Program, Southern Soybean Research Program and United Soybean Board (USB) agree this is a priority issue impacting the entire industry.

“Farmer-leaders across the major soybean regions came together and asked: ‘What roadblocks do we face, and how can we combine research dollars to make the most impact?’” says Suzanne Shirbroun, president of the North Central Soybean Research Program and Iowa farmer. “While we all farm differently across the

country, we also share common challenges. Together we can focus on one large-scale research objective to reduce a major deterrent that limits productivity.”

Although flower retention is a leading cause of soybean yield loss in the U.S., no organized effort exists to address it.

Farmers experience about 30% of flower loss under favorable conditions and up to 80% under drought and heat stress.

Texas Tech University, in collaboration with Kansas State University, the University of Missouri and the University of Tennessee, will lead the research on this national effort. At the helm, Principal Investigator Krishna Jagadish at Texas Tech University will compile data from dryland, irrigated, severe drought and heat stress growing conditions.

In total, 250 diverse genotypes with publicly available whole genome resequencing data will be assessed over the span of this three-year farmer investment.

“The collaboration and alignment of research priorities among our farmers enable advancement of groundbreaking collaboration by regional soybean research groups,” says Keenan McRoberts, Ph.D., USB vice president of strategic alignment. “This partnership

and the resulting collaborative investment could improve the future of soybean production. It has the potential to strengthen soybean resiliency, increase productivity and bring economic returns back to the farm.”

Understanding the genetic diversity of flower loss opens the door to untapped yield potential in soybeans. The novel phenotyping system, which detects expressions of the various genotypes, will: • Capture genetic variation across cultivars.

• Identify molecular switches to enhance flower and pod retention.

• Help develop advanced breeding lines. Ultimately, the goal is to increase flower and pod retention by 20% to 30%. That in turn could enhance yields by 10% to 15%.

“Partnering on research of this magnitude is especially important as we continue to experience challenging weather events,” says Shirbroun. “This is one example of how we can invest checkoff dollars collectively that benefits soybean farmers across 30-plus states.”

For more information on the United Soybean Board, visit unitedsoybean.org.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 25

M E E T T H E D I R E C TO R

Tom Adam Harper, Iowa Title: District 9 Director ISA Committees: Supply and Information & Education

What crops and livestock do you grow on the farm?

I grow soybeans, corn, winter wheat and a little bit of hay. I used to raise hogs and cattle but gave that up in recent years to give myself time to travel.

How does your personal philosophy match the mission of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA)?

My personal philosophy is to invest where I get the best return for my dollar. I see that aligning very well with the way other board members view our job on the ISA board.

What’s the latest innovation that gets you excited about the future of soybeans?

Biofuels. There’s a huge demand potential for the oil.

In a few years, the oil is going to be outpacing meal as the most valuable component of the soybean.

How do you envision production agriculture 50 years from now?

In 1970, we had 3.7 billion people on this planet.

Some statistics show in 1970 there were 2 billion who were living in extreme poverty. Today, we have 8 billion people living in this world and less than 1 billion in extreme poverty. I know in the last couple years with the pandemic we’ve gone backward a bit, but in general, the trend has been going in the right direction.

There are a lot of changes that happen in 50 years.

It’s hard to have a crystal ball, but in the last 50 years with biotechnology, chemicals, fertilizer and GPS, it’s clear technology is improving. Because of these things, I see the future to be so much better.

What’s the best piece of advice (industry-related or otherwise) you’ve ever been given?

I don’t know where I got it from, but there are three things that kind of go together: Keep an open mind, embrace change and be flexible with your farming operation.

What’s something people don’t usually know about you?

In 1980 and 1981, I worked for Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation assisting with bank examinations across Iowa, mostly in small rural banks. It was a period when the federal reserve was tightening credit and interest rates skyrocketed to historic levels. This time was quite the eye-opener for me to see how a single policy change could so drastically affect farmers’ bottom lines.

26 | MARCH 2023 | IASOYBEANS.COM

Full-Circle Return EANS B L SEL S R ME R FA

HERE’S HOW THE SOY CHECKOFF WORKS. The national soy checkoff was created as part of the 1990 Farm Bill. The Act & Order that created the soy checkoff requires that all soybean farmers pay into the soy checkoff at the first point of purchase. These funds are then used for promotion, research and education at both the state and national level.

TO ELEVATORS, PROCES SOR S&

DEA LER S

1/2 of 1% of the total selling price collected per the national soybean act & order

0.5%

Half goes to the state checkoff for investment in areas that are a priority for that state.

PROMOTION

RESEARCH

EDUCATION

Half goes to the national checkoff for investment in USB’s* long-range strategic plan.

ROI TO THE FA RMER by 73 volunteer soybean farmers, the United Soybean Board * Led (USB) invests and leverages soy checkoff dollars to MAXIMIZE PROFIT OPPORTUNITIES for all U.S. soybean farmers.

unitedsoybean.org IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 27

WISHH graduates entrepreneurs from global training for high-quality foods and feeds.

ASA/WISHH

Connect with WISHH wishh.org

WISHH is a program of the American Soybean Association and is funded in part by the United Soybean Board and state soybean board checkoff programs.

28 | MARCH 2023 | IASOYBEANS.COM

Are you interested in shaping the future of the Iowa Soybean Association?

Consider a position on the ISA Board of Directors.

ISA is governed by a board of 22 volunteer farmerdirectors who meet throughout the year to develop ISA's policies and programs. Directors are elected by Iowa soybean farmers in July and take office in September. Want to learn more about this opportunity?

Sc a n t he QR co de to lear n more or a p p l y

your

cooperative

soybean processor

www.agp.com

WISHH catches new markets for U.S. soy by advancing aquaculture.

ASA/WISHH is helping explore opportunities for soy-based feeds to grow aquaculture in 8 sub-Saharan African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Togo, Burkina Faso, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania

Connect with WISHH wishh.org

WISHH is a program of the American Soybean Association and is funded in part by the United Soybean Board and state soybean board checkoff programs.

30 | MARCH 2023 | IASOYBEANS.COM

Word of the Year

I

’ve chosen a word that serves as a guide in 2023: Celebrate.

It initially came to me during a meeting with our writers, designers and photographer. We discussed going from one issue of the Iowa Soybean Review to the next, racing to our next deadlines.

While the deadlines are everpresent, it was a reminder to take a minute to reflect on the great work our team does to produce each issue.

All the planning, writing, editing and designing come together monthly in a 32-page magazine. And then it’s out into the world, and we’re already on to the next two issues.

Farming is a bit like that, too.

One minute you’re planting your field; the next, it seems you’re already harvesting the fruits of your labor. By that time, your decision on the variety and type of seed has already been locked in. Did you leave some space to celebrate the harvest? Do you give thanks for a safe transition to and from the fields or an abundant crop despite adversity? (Note: All 99 counties in the state were in some drought stage in 2022. Still, Iowa farmers harvested 587 million bushels of soybeans, the second largest in the state’s history.)

“Celebrate” is reverberated at home, where dessert is served all too often to celebrate something: a perfect score on a math test, successful recovery from surgery, a dog’s birthday or simply making it through the day.

I recently joined several others at the Iowa Soybean Association’s Winter Soy Summit to celebrate eight individuals for their role in the soybean industry. The recipients are a perfect mix of those who have

served the industry for several decades and those near the beginning of their careers. Their stories and videos made me proud to be associated with them. Unlike some of our celebration nights at home, these recipients deserve both the awards and the desserts served at the luncheon.

Reflecting on the awards ceremony, I’m reminded of the words from Robert Haus, who presented the New Leader Award to Josh Henik on behalf of Corteva: “Where soybeans are grown, leaders are grown.”

I’m fortunate to be a part of an association that celebrates the farmers who make it all happen.

As I’ve learned of their stories, I’m reminded time and again of farmers’ contributions not only in their local communities but around the world.

I’m grateful to celebrate these leaders in this issue — and beyond.

Enjoy the issue!

Rural Route 2 Editor’s Note by Bethany Baratta bbaratta@iasoybeans.com

P.S. Scan the QR code to see videos of each award recipient.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 31

( YOU ) You’re where the rubber meets the road.

And the engine. And the interior.

All soybean farmers, including you, are busy replacing petroleum with your soy oil. How? By pooling your resources through your soy checkoff. Learn how your soy checkoff is bringing tangible returns back to you and your operation at unitedsoybean.org/hopper.

32 | MARCH 2023 | IASOYBEANS.COM

Moving Soy Forward.

Moving You Forward. ©2021 United Soybean Board [61133-1 7/21] IA