Iowa Soybean Review | December 2024

December 2024

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 1

WISHH drives your soybean meal to new markets

wishh.org

Executive Committee President Brent Swart, Spencer | D1 President-elect Tom Adam, Harper | D9

December 2024 | Vol. 38, No. 3

Secretary Sam Showalter, Hampton | D2 Treasurer Lee Brooke, Clarinda | D7

10

At-Large Director Scot Bailey, Anita | D7

Global Endeavors

Board of Directors Paul Kassel, Spencer | D1 Brent Renner, Klemme | D2 Mike Yegge, Lake Mills | D2 Rick Juchems, Plainfield | D3 Amanda Tupper, Ionia | D3 Marty Danzer, Carroll | D4 Jeff Frank, Lake View | D4 Corey Goodhue, Carlisle | D5 Dave Struthers, Collins | D5 Matt Willimack, DeWitt | D6 Dave Walton, Wilton | D6 Warren Bachman, Osceola | D8 Randy Miller, Lacona | D8 Jeff Ellis, Donnellson | D9 Jack Boyer, Reinbeck | At-Large Aimee Bissell, Bedford | At-Large Sharon Chism, Huxley | At-Large

How marketing endeavors have created demand for soy domestically and abroad.

14

Gains in Conservation While there’s still more to accomplish, Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Roger Wolf reflects on conservation efforts in the state

American Soybean Association Board of Directors Tom Adam, Harper Steph Essick, Dickens Morey Hill, Madrid Randy Miller, Lacona Pat Swanson, Ottumwa Dave Walton, Wilton United Soybean Board of Directors Tim Bardole, Rippey Robb Ewoldt, Davenport April Hemmes, Hampton Brent Renner, Klemme

22

Driving Production How has productivity changed in 60 years?

Production experts weigh in.

Staff Credits Bethany Baratta | Editor Aaron Putze, APR | CO Brand Mgmt and Engagement Susan Langman | Creative Design Coordinator Joclyn Bushman | Multimedia Specialist Jeff Hutton | Senior Writer Kriss Nelson | Staff Writer Joseph Hopper | Communications Specialist Brock Johnston | Public Relations Manager

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Meet the President Meet the farmer focused on farmer profitability, productivity and sustainability.

FARMER FOCUSED | DRIVEN TO DELIVER

On the Cover:

ISA VISION We advance the long-term competitiveness of Iowa soybean farmers.

Our creative design coordinator, Susan Langman,

ISA MISSION Driven to deliver opportunities for Iowa soybean farmers to thrive.

selected images representing the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) past, present and future. In this issue, we celebrate ISA’s 60th anniversary, reflecting on where projects, programs and markets have been, and where they’re going in the future.

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

Comments and statewide news articles should be sent to the above address. Advertising space reservations must be made two months 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.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 3

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

Celebrating 60 Years of the Iowa Soybean Association: A Personal Reflection

A

s the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) marks its 60th anniversary, it’s a moment for reflection — not only on the milestones of the organization but also on my personal journey over the last 35 years.

ISA was founded in 1964 when soybeans were emerging as a critical Midwest crop. Over the years, ISA has played an essential role in advocating for farmers, building demand, fostering research and promoting sustainable practices.

My involvement with ISA began in the late 1980s. It was a time when the agricultural landscape was rapidly changing as we emerged from the challenges of the 1980s. I was struck by the dedication of those around me. Farmers from across the state, united by a common goal to enhance profit opportunities for Iowa’s soybean farmers. I remember attending my first board meeting where passionate discussions about research funding and market access illuminated the commitment we all shared. It was inspiring to witness farmers collectively sharing their challenges and brainstorming solutions.

Throughout my years with ISA, I’ve seen the association evolve to meet the changing needs

of its members. The introduction of innovative farming practices and advancements in biotech has transformed soybean production in Iowa. I vividly recall the excitement surrounding new seed varieties that promised greater yields and resilience to pests and diseases. ISA has always been at the forefront of these advancements, ensuring Iowa farmers have access to the latest research and technology.

A significant highlight for me has been our commitment to sustainability. ISA has championed initiatives that promote conservation practices and improve water quality, such as cover crops, reduced tillage, bioreactors, and oxbow restorations. Farmers are stewards of the land and ISA has been a valued partner as you’ve adopted practices ensuring the longevity of our resources for future generations.

ISA has also excelled in its advocacy. I’ve participated in numerous state and national lobbying efforts and have seen how our voices can make a difference, whether pushing for fair trade policies, expansion of soy-based fuels or research funding. The relationships we’ve built with policymakers ensure the interests of Iowa soybean farmers are represented.

During his 35 years at ISA, CEO Kirk Leeds notes farmers' commitment to sustainability, the association's work in f inding new uses for soy, and showing up to ensure the interests of Iowa soybean farmers are represented.

4 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

“ISA's 60th anniversary is more than just a celebration of our history. It's a testament to our enduring commitment to the soybean industry and farmers we serve,” says ISA CEO Kirk Leeds.

ISA has also prioritized education and outreach.

I remember attending field days and workshops that provided invaluable hands-on learning experiences. These events not only connect farmers with experts but foster a sense of community. The knowledge shared during these gatherings has been instrumental in helping us navigate the complexities of modern farming.

As we celebrate this 60th anniversary, it is essential to recognize the challenges we face. Erratic weather, fluctuating markets, regulatory hurdles and geopolitical chaos are just a few of the issues that require ongoing attention.

I’m optimistic about the future as ISA has consistently demonstrated its resilience and adaptability. The commitment of its members, coupled with a focus on innovation and collaboration, position us well to tackle these challenges head-on.

I’m grateful for the relationships formed through ISA. The friendships, mentorships and camaraderie have enriched my life. It continues to be a privilege to work alongside dedicated individuals who are enthusiastic about our work and committed to the greater good of our communities.

As we honor the past 60 years, let us also look forward to the future. The next generation of farmers will face unique challenges and opportunities. It’s our responsibility to ensure they are equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. I encourage everyone involved with ISA to continue fostering a culture of mentorship, innovation and community engagement.

ISA’s 60th anniversary is more than just a celebration of our history. It’s a testament to our enduring commitment to the soybean industry and farmers we serve. I’m proud to be part of a legacy that has made a significant impact on Iowa agriculture. Here’s to the next 60 years of growth, innovation and partnership as we ensure a vibrant future for soybean farming in Iowa and beyond.

As we approach the holiday season, all of us here at ISA who’ve been given the honor and privilege of following in the footsteps of ISA’s founding leaders wish you and your family a merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year!

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 5

WHERE CONSTRUCTION MEETS PRODUCTION The Weitz Company is proud to be a part of Iowa Soybean Association’s growth as a trusted construction partner.

Congratulations on 60 years!

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

Sixty Years in the Making

T

he year was 1964. The Cleveland Browns were NFL champs, the Beatles visited the U.S. for the first time and Henry Ford II unveiled the Ford Mustang at the World’s Fair. G.I. Joe and Barbies were popular toys, and “My Fair Lady” hit the big screen. Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin resolution, authorizing major U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, Martin Luther King Jr. won the Nobel Peace Prize, and President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

And on Dec. 16, 1964, the Iowa Soybean Association was founded by farmers for farmers when the Articles of Incorporation and bylaws were officially adopted.

You might not see that last line in the depths of the History Channel website, but it’s a notable date.

The association’s historical documents recall that date in which several Iowa farmers came together with a common purpose to develop new products, create new markets and “make better profits for soybean producers in the state.”

It came in a year that Iowa farmers harvested a record 121.2 million bushels of soybeans.

Since then, research and productivity efforts have boosted soybean production; a record 638 million bushels is forecast for the 2024 Iowa soybean crop.

Directors have guided the organization’s staff and others to create and support new products like soy-based asphalt, biodiesel, chainsaw oil and others.

Markets have opened and expanded across the world to include more U.S. soy.

The timeline of important events throughout this magazine helps tell the story of ISA’s 60 years.

The cover of this issue is a nod to our association’s history and the people throughout the years who have contributed to its success. In this issue, you’ll learn more about one of the longest-running soybean research projects. You’ll meet Brent Swart, who was recently elected to serve as the ISA president. You’ll read about the destinations forecast to have a home for your product in 2025.

As we put together this issue, I couldn’t help but to think about what these stories might say in 2039 when ISA celebrates 75 years.

How will the next 15 years shape the industry? How will they shape your farm? What will soybean production look like in the state?

In its 75th year, who will lead the association? I can’t wait to see how your story unfolds.

I wish you and your families a safe and blessed Christmas.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 7

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60 YEARS OF ISA

The past 60 years have brought innovation, research, sustainable solutions and marketing opportunities for Iowa's soybean farmers. As you will read throughout this special section, ISA remains true to its roots as it ushers in the next 60 years — for farmers, by farmers.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 9

ISA THROUGH THE YEARS

1964

Several Iowa farmers came together with a common purpose to develop new products, create new markets and improve profits for soybean producers in the state.

That year, Iowa Soybean Association was recognized as a legal state association under the Code of Iowa with a representative on the Agricultural Marketing Board.

121.2 million

bushels produced in 1964.

46 people

fed by one U.S. farmer.

1969

In an effort to increase membership and raise funds, ISA signed an organizational agreement with the Iowa Farm Bureau on March 1, 1969. The agreement called for Farm Bureau to provide organizational advice and local support to ISA in an effort to increase membership to 3,000 and raise $10,000 for the soybean association throughout contribution of a one-half cent per bushel from Iowa farmers.

Global Endeavors Market development efforts have created opportunities for soybean here and abroad

BY JEFF HUTTON

H

ow do you showcase the power of soybeans, its many uses and reach a global audience?

It began in the early days of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and with the establishment of the soybean checkoff. Opening up trade and seeking new opportunities were part of those efforts and they continue today.

ISA’s focus “The Iowa Soybean Association is working to deliver new markets and opportunities for Iowa’s soybean farmers,” says Matt Herman, ISA chief officer for demand and advocacy.

10 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

Both Herman and Grant Kimberley, senior director of market development at ISA, noted that after more than a decade of sustained demand, China’s appetite for U.S. whole beans has leveled off due to declining population growth and increased whole bean export competition from Brazil.

But ISA and industry partners continue to look for new opportunities for Iowa soybeans, both at home and abroad.

“As the industry contemplates diversification from whole bean exports to China, we are also looking to supply global markets with an

expanding supply of soybean meal as a rapid expansion of renewable diesel in recent years has driven a projected 25-30% expansion in U.S. soybean crush from 2020-2028,” Herman says.

This includes new facilities in Iowa and other expansions in and around the state.

With increased supplies of soybean meal comes new opportunities and challenges. In anticipation of expanding supply of soybean meal, major processors like AGP, Cargill and CHS have plans to expand export terminals in Grays Harbor, Wash., Kalama, Wash., and in the Port of Houston.

Iowa’s soybean production continues to grow at record pace. Iowa became the second largest state in soybean acreage and production in 1969, representing about 15% of production in the U.S. by harvesting 171 million bushels from 5.5 million acres.

1970

1971

Iowa legislature passes soybean checkoff legislation by a narrow 51% majority, which provided the establishment of the Iowa Soybean Promotion Board (ISPB) to administer funding generated by the checkoff.

The program raised about $900,000 annually from 1971 to 1975 with money being used by state and national soybean organizations to promote marketing efforts and finance soybean research.

Iowa Governor Robert D. Ray proclaimed January as soybean month. Later, 12 counties carried out a kickoff program for a voluntary one-half cent per bushel contribution in support of market development and other activities related to soybeans. The number of farmers contributing was 1,430.

73 people

fed by one U.S. farmer.

Continued on Pg. 12.

“As the industry contemplates diversification from whole bean exports to China, we are also looking to supply global markets with an expanding supply of soybean meal as a rapid expansion of renewable diesel in recent years has driven a projected 2530% expansion in U.S. soybean crush from 2020-- 2028.”

Matt Herman, ISA CO demand and advocacy

“The Iowa Soybean Association, through its investment in the Soy Transportation Coalition, is proud to support their efforts to help the public ports that house these large export facilities win public grants to fund railroad track expansion to facilitate greater volumes of rail cars,” Herman says. “These new terminals will help supply a growing demand for U.S. soybean meal from the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand and capture more market share in Central America, Middle East and the European Union.”

While livestock feed will continue to be the major demand driver for soybean meal, ISA and its partners at other state checkoffs and the United Soybean Board are driving development of numerous new high-value, sustainable products from soybean oil and soybean meal, Herman and Kimberley say. As consumers have become more health conscious in recent years many are seeking more sustainable, often biobased products.

Herman and Kimberley agree that historically, the development of soybean oil-based petroleum products took center stage. This was a relatively easy entry into the market, they contend, given soy oil’s close chemical similarity to petroleum. A product which ISA invested in the development of through their partnership with Airable Research Lab is now the top selling bar and chain lubricant on

Amazon. In addition to consumer facing products ISA has also supported the development of asphalt roof sealers, fiberglass epoxies and biofuels from soybean oil.

Today with a greater supply of meal and lower prices, there is more interest in soy products.

“Recently, the checkoff helped support the development of a soy meal-based, PFAS- (a carcinogen) free firefighting foam,” says Herman. “This product has recently been demonstrated at a number of Midwest fire departments and is available for burn trials for Iowa fire departments upon request.”

Crushing for the future

U.S. agriculture consultant and soybean crush expert Gordon Denny of Brighton, Colo., says market development opportunities abound with soybean crushing.

“U.S. soybean processors have spent over $8 billion in new and expanded crush capacities in recent times,” he says. “This ‘value add’ to locally grown soybeans ensure a better cash basis at the farm level, less trucking cost, more demand and competition for Iowa farmers soybeans, and a better product mix for being competitive against South America.”

By providing renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuels feedstock, Iowa farmers are helping reduce the carbon intensity of transportation, Denny says.

Continued on Pg. 12.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 11

ISA THROUGH THE YEARS

1971

During that same period, ISA nominated 24 farmers from its nine crop-reporting districts to serve on the newly established ISPB. Twelve nominees were elected.

1975

The first renewal of the checkoff was passed, with 72% voting in favor. Les Rhodes was the executive director.

Allen Johnson, former ISA CEO

“And with AGP, Emmetsburg in 2004 and Sergeant Bluff a few years ago, Shell Rock in 2023 and Platinum Crush this past May, processors have increased local Iowa soybean demand by more than 100 million bushels annually,” he says. “That number doesn’t include the additional expansions/upgrades at most other existing plants in Iowa.”

Denny says Iowa is well positioned to grow, process, transport and feed the most sustainable soybean meal in the world. The flexibility to “on shore” the additional millions of tons of soybean meal to North American markets is a key geographic and transportation advantage.

The growth of U.S. crush is improving profitable opportunities, increasing the availability of soybean meal, improving the quality of soybean meal and lowering the relative price of soybean meal, Denny notes.

“This lowers food prices and improves the diet of Americans and the world we feed,” Denny says. “Oil is subsidizing protein.”

No stone unturned Amb. Allen Johnson can recall the early days of ISA, its efforts to promote soybeans and its importance on the world stage.

12 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

1978

In an effort to expand leadership, ISA established a county delegate system in 1978.

1979

A September 1979 embargo by President Carter did not deter soybean producers from approving the ISPB referendum with a 75% yes vote. On May 22, 1980, a soybean bill is signed into law to change the code and seek referendum on raising the checkoff from a one-half cent to 1 cent per bushel.

“ I’ve always been impressed with Iowa soybean farmers on how open they are in doing things.”

“When I was at the ISA, we were going through a farm bill and we were also going through the establishment of the national checkoff,” he says. “We knew we needed to sync up our farm policy and deal with a significant increase in our checkoff dollars.

“Of course, one of the challenges was accomplishing the mission of the checkoff and growing markets, while promoting market development and research and making sure Iowa farmers knew what you were going to do with their money,” he says.

Johnson later departed ISA, worked in the private sector for a few years and then from 2001-2005 served as the chief agricultural negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) for the George W. Bush administration. He has since followed up those market development and trade efforts with the formation of his company, Allen F. Johnson & Associates, based in Washington, D.C. Johnson says market development efforts must continue to focus on trade opportunities for the agricultural sector.

“In looking toward the future, one of the challenges is having a consistent trade policy that will continue to open markets,” he says.

And with relations with China strained, a renewed focus on markets beyond China.

“With other markets, we can see opportunities and we must go after them,” Johnson says. “U.S. trade policy facilitates diversification into these other markets. The more markets you have, the bigger markets you have, the more reliable markets you have. We need not be overly dependent on a certain market.”

But where are those markets?

Johnson points to Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Americas and Africa as market opportunities.

Despite the geopolitical realities of what’s happening with China or concerns about war in the Middle East and Ukraine, these target regions Johnson cites are ripe for U.S. soybean expansion.

“We can’t change the reality of what is happening, but let’s work on those areas of the world that makes sense given the geopolitical environment we’re in and regardless of who is leading the administration,” he says.

Johnson says Southeast Asia and South Asia are hungry for U.S. soybeans, as are the Americas where a “tightening up of those relations” with the United States would be positive.

Virtually all countries in Southeast Asia are potential growth areas for U.S. soybeans, Johnson says, including the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam.

1982

In 1982 and 1983, ISA, led by President Raymond Heck, became active in contract sanctity. All state soybean association presidents traveled to Washington, D.C., and got federal legislation passed regarding contract sanctity.

115 people fed by one U.S. farmer.

The 1-cent checkoff was passed.

1984

The association adopted the long-range planning committee recommendation to switch to a system of past president, president and president-elect. The major issues facing ISA during this period were cargo preference, balancing the federal budget and the 1985 Farm Bill debate to get soybeans on equal footing with other commodities and the rest of the world.

Continued on Pg. 14.

Africa, meanwhile, is experiencing tremendous growth, he says.

Agriculture must not focus solely on the next financial reporting period, but long-term, he says.

“When you look at Africa, the population growth is tremendous, whereas in China and Japan, it’s declining,” he says. “The EU remains steady, but in the Americas, I believe in the future it will be just as important as China is now.”

Johnson says trade agreements in the recent past, like the Central American Free Trade Agreement and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement could be blueprints for future agreements with regions like the Americas and Africa.

“If you want to get good deals, you have to be engaged,” Johnson says.

Over the last 10 years or so, the U.S. has been “sitting on the sidelines,” Johnson says, when it comes to trade. That has only benefited U.S. competitors and adversaries.

The United States, with support from soybean farmers in Iowa and other states, need to start negotiating again to find deals that are comprehensively good for all parties and other sectors of trade policy like manufacturing.

“Doing great deals makes everybody feel good,” he says.

Promoting quality ISA District 7 Board Member Scot Bailey, who serves as chairman of ISA’s Demand Committee, says getting more soybeans to new markets around the globe is paramount to being successful.

“We need to crack into these markets,” he says, noting that many

countries have proclaimed the superior quality of U.S. soybeans.

“They’ve told us if they could get U.S. beans all the time, they wouldn’t have to change the formulation for the diets of the livestock they feed,” says Bailey, who farms near Anita.

In the future, Bailey sees the European Union being a market opportunity because buyers there are concerned with deforestation in Brazil and Argentina.

“We need to show them (EU buyers) that our soybean production is not a result of deforestation, and we can use that in our favor,” he says.

Promoting other environmental practices will also appeal to markets concerned with how soybeans are produced, giving an edge to the United States.

“That’s something we can promote to other countries,” he says.

Thank you Iowa!

Johnson says the potential to create good trade deals and create opportunities for market development and research was part of the reason there was the push for a soybean checkoff years ago.

He gives credit to the ISA and CEO Kirk Leeds for making these things happen, and also praises Iowa’s soybean producers.

“I’m not surprised with what has happened, because I’ve always been impressed with Iowa soybean farmers on how open they are in doing things,” Johnson says.

Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com

Scot Bailey, ISA District 7 Director IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 13

ISA THROUGH THE YEARS

1986

In 1986, a statewide dustbuster program was implemented, complete with mobile demonstration trailers. The program was designed to show elevator managers the benefits of using soybean oil as a dust suppressant in grain handling facilities.

1989

1990

ISA’s 74th and 75th county associations are organized. The year also sees the passage of the Soybean Oil Ink bill that dramatically expands the state’s use of soybean oil-based ink.

The Iowa Legislature passed the soybean oil ink bill mandating the use of soy oil in government printing operations by July 1989. Food companies using soy oil in their products lined up to display the “SoyMark” symbol on their packages, which stood for “Good Taste and Good Sense”. ISA celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Gains in Conservation While much has been accomplished, conservationists aren’t resting

BY JEFF HUTTON

I

owa Soybean Association (ISA) Director of Conservation Roger Wolf has seen firsthand the evolution of conservation in Iowa.

“It was back around the 1985 Farm Bill and what was unique then was this introduction of conservation compliance,” he says. “If a farmer was going to participate in a farm bill program and get benefits, they had to develop a soil conservation plan on land classified as highly erodible. This was new and unique.”

Wolf’s witnessed farmers’ efforts in conservation as an environmental specialist for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and during his nearly 25 years of work with ISA. He recalls attending a conference in Ames where he was introduced to ISA and nearly 1,000 farmers discussing issues ranging from practices like no-till and the equipment to make it work.

“What was apparent to me was that there were farmers out there who were interested in solving these problems,” Wolf says. “Early on it was this convergence of protecting highly erodible land, conservation compliance, biotech came on around same time and more.”

Then came the 1990s, where focus on water resources was starting to take shape.

14 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

1992

1991

Kirk Leeds is selected as the new executive director in December 1992. His first task was to implement a new strategic plan focused on strengthening ISA’s financial position.

The national soybean checkoff begins, while the “Iowa Soybean Review” enters its second year of publication. Dan Hall becomes the executive director until 1992.

1994

1997

Soybean Research and Development Council was formed in 1997 between the Iowa and Illinois associations. Some of the first projects included a major yield research project and the first ever Global Soy Forum, which attracted more than 2,000 producers, researchers and industry representatives to Chicago in August 1999.

The National Soybean Checkoff in Iowa passes by an 8,237 to 6,129 vote. Meanwhile, ISA picked up another American Soybean Association director. ISA now has five directors on the national board.

Continued on Pg. 16.

“There has been this trajectory from erodible land, new equipment, new technology, farmers’ adoption efforts and best practices, then watersheds and water quality practices,” says Wolf.

Combine that with research that was going on at Iowa State University on reducing nutrient loss and work on the Raccoon River Watershed and things have only flourished since the 1990s.

Fast forward to early 2000, when Wolf joined ISA and started to help build out the association’s conservation program.

Through his time of working in soil and water conservation, Wolf says farmers have been keen in making sure the farm fields and water sources of Iowa are improved.

And there have been plenty of new advancements with the growth of ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI), establishment of organizations like the Agriculture’s Clean Water Alliance (ACWA), the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance (IAWA) and the introduction of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy in 2013. Practices including the addition of cover crops, installation of bioreactors, edge-of-field practices, oxbow restoration and more have moved

Iowa and its farmers to environmental heights.

“On this journey, we started with the foundation of good soil conservation and thinking about soil health,” says Wolf. “But it’s broader than just soil loss.

It’s also microbes, carbon, compaction, infiltration, and others.”

But was it difficult to get farmers and others on board?

“When we started at ISA, we asked farmers here to list their best management practices,” Wolf says. “But a lot of the messaging didn’t resonate because many farmers already thought they were doing it. Farmers lacked ability to prove what they’re doing, nor could they prove that what they were doing had impacts.”

Wolf says it was different than it is today, where farmers can showcase their conservation efforts through testing, studies, verification and incentives.

One farmer’s story Hans Riensche farms with his family across several counties in eastern Iowa. From cover crops, innovative practices, bioreactors and saturated buffers, Riensche believes conservation is one key to being successful on the farm.

Continued on Pg. 16.

“ You know the term ‘best management practice’ is kind of a misnomer because we’re on the same continuous pursuit of better management. And in conservation, we’re never really done.”

Roger Wolf, ISA Director of Conservation

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 15

ISA THROUGH THE YEARS

1998

District 3 was split into two districts, bringing the number of directors to 17.

1999

2001

ISA launches its environmental program called Certified Environmental Management Solutions for Agriculture (CEMSA) and the On-Farm Nitrogen Network to enable growers to improve nitrogen management by evaluating their current practices.

ISA and Iowa Corn Growers Association created an alliance and joint membership to build on common interests and the long history of collaboration.

2002

ISA staff began publishing the “Illinois Soybean Review” magazine for the Illinois Soybean Association.

“We’re definitely in the camp of conservation adoption,” he says. “Over the last few years with cover crops, we’ve been very intentional, while also moving ground from less productive fields to CRP and looking more into water quality.”

Working with ISA Conservation Agronomist Evan Brehm, Riensche says his family looks for ways to be more productive while protecting environmental interests.

“We’ve been looking at carbon sequestration as a way to create more value with nutrient reduction efforts and save money on inputs,” he says. “We’re playing with everything, and while we’re not veterans at it, we’re giving it our best shot.”

And while conservation adoption may be good for Riensche’s fields, it’s a boon to the community around him.

“What I’m most passionate about is our farm having a better impact on our community,” he says.

“If there is something I can do that makes a difference for the community around us, improving water quality and making sure the soil doesn’t blow across the roadway, I will.”

Riensche says conservation is a real driver in many of the decisions he makes on the farm, including exploring the marketplace for incentives that make financial sense, continuing with more cover crops, buffer strips and bioreactors.

“We believe conservation is a win-win-win for the farmer, the environment and the consumer,” he says.

More to be done

“We believe conservation is a win-win-win for the farmer, the environment and the consumer.”

Hans Riensche, ISA Farmer-Member

16 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

“Farmers are invested in trying to understand how things work and being part of that engine that will move us forward,” says Wolf, who is set to retire in early 2025. “And at ISA, we’re working in partnership with a lot of people — certified crop advisors, engineers, Ph.Ds., data analysts, watershed planners. We have this myriad of expertise and we’re here to serve the farmer.”

Wolf says much has been accomplished in the world of conservation, but …

“We need to transition from grants and philanthropy,” he says. “We need a stable system that we can count on.”

2004

ISA launched the On-Farm Network® Field Scouting project to provide growers with weekly field scouting reports from more than 60 corn, soybean and alfalfa fields around the state. That same year, ISA and ISPB vote to move forward as a unified board, which will help better position the new organization to help meet the challenges of soybean growers.

2005

144 people fed

ISA and ISPB become a unified board on July 1, 2005, which will better position the new organization to help meet the challenges of soybean growers more strategically.

2008

by one U.S. farmer.

ISA breaks ground on an updated facility in Ankeny, Iowa, to expand efforts on behalf of the state’s soybean farmers. The new facility, equipped with increased energy efficient and soy-based materials, was completed in 2009.

Continued on Pg. 18.

While drinking water and wastewater issues in urban areas are supported, for example, finding money in rural areas is a different proposition.

“In rural Iowa, we support food production, field production, energy and all the jobs associated with that,” Wolf says. “But we really don’t have the financial capacity in the rural landscape to implement all the practices and infrastructure need to meet some of the audacious big goals we have downstream like

for the Gulf of Mexico. Little towns and counties are strapped for resources.”

And while there have been great strides made over the past few decades, the work continues.

“You know the term ‘best management practice’ is kind of a misnomer because we’re on the same continuous pursuit of better management,” Wolf says “And in conservation, we’re never really done.”

Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com

What’s the difference between

a Soybean grower

and a corn grower?

A crop rotation.

From our growers to yours, we would like to congratulate the Iowa Soybean Association for 60 productive years of serving Iowa’s soybean growers. Your efforts and leadership continue to strengthen our rural communities and provide excellent opportunities for your members (many of whom are our members, too).

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 17 iowacorn.org

ISA THROUGH THE YEARS

2010

ISA welcomes the Environmental Protection Agency’s issuance of the final rule to implement the expanded Renewable Fuels Standard provided for in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007.

2011

2012

President Xi Jinping of China visited Iowa to learn about farm technology and Iowa’s rich agricultural industry. Chinese leaders also made commitments to purchase $4.31 billion worth of U.S. soybeans during signing ceremonies at the World Food Prize Center in Des Moines. These commitments totaled more than 317 million bushels of soybeans, or 8.62 million metric tons.

ISA’s water lab begins testing water samples, providing on-site capacity for statewide water monitoring and project support to help farmers use data and target resources. The facility tests thousands of individual samples each year.

Iowa farmers produce

415 million bushels of soybeans in 2013.

Aphid Control Checkoff-funded research works to combat devastating pest

T

he presence of soybean aphids poses a significant risk to soybeans. They cause considerable damage to soybean crops, resulting in a potential yield reduction of nearly 40% and the transmission of diseases that further compromise crop health.

The research on this destructive pest is crucial for developing effective management strategies for growers.

Shocking discovery of a new soybean pest Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) District 1 Director Paul Kassel reflects on discovering the pest 24 years ago when he was an Iowa State University (ISU) Extension agronomist.

“I stopped to check maturity progress in a random soybean field when I first saw soybean aphids,” Kassel says.

“It was near Ringsted in a Pioneer variety plot in 2001.”

Two years later, this new-to-America pest became an issue. Kassel remembers phone calls flooding in between July and August 2003.

“I had never experienced such a widespread and devastating insect problem,” he says. “Everyone — farmers, dealers, applicators and ISU Extension, including myself, had a difficult time grasping the seriousness of this insect.”

18 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

“It was almost like people hit the panic button,” says ISA Research Agronomist Drew Clemmensen. “They found this insect; they didn’t know what it was, and suddenly, it was appearing in their neighbor’s fields and was spreading to every acre, causing devastation.”

Drew Clemmensen, ISA Research Because the pest was new Agronomist to the state, there was no way to predict the impact of what a soybean aphid could have on soybean yields.

Soybean industry experts and farmers turned to the potential of spraying insecticide, but that decision did not come lightly.

“Complicating the treatment decision was the dry weather of August 2003. Many areas received little rainfall in late summer,” says Kassel. “Hindsight, we should have applied insecticide to every soybean acre in northwest Iowa that August. The dry weather made the aphid’s impact much greater.”

Photo credit: Philippe Paternolli/stock.adobe.com

BY KRISS NELSON

2014

The Iowa Soybean Research Center (ISRC) at Iowa State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is formed and approved by the Iowa Board of Regents.

ISRC begins its work in partnership with ISA, industry leaders, farmers and researchers to identify and fund research toward soybean production and protection.

2018

In light of the U.S.-China Trade War, ISA continues to pursue new domestic and international market opportunities to drive soybean demand. ISA later welcomed the signing of a phase one trade agreement between the two countries in 2020.

155 people fed by one U.S. farmer.

2020

ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation is established with the goal of delivering the very best farmer-led research combining agronomic, conservation and analytics tailored for soybean farmers. The Center unifies what were the On-Farm Network®, Environmental Programs and Services and Analytics programs.

Continued on Pg. 20.

Researching the aphid ISA soon leveraged checkoff dollars to fund research on the soybean aphid, which has now turned into one of the longest soybean checkoff-funded studies at ISU. “This pest has the potential to cause significant damage and destruction,” says Clemmensen. “Research can uncover more details about the pest, giving us solid data on its destructive effects and deepening our understanding. It’s crucial to shed light on how devastating it can be.”

Matt O’Neal, ISU professor in the Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology and Wallace Chair for Sustainable Agriculture, says the checkoff has funded multiple methods to survey and manage soybean aphids.

“This includes developing scouting tools so farmers know when aphids are present and need to be treated, testing existing and novel insecticides and selecting and evaluating aphid-resistant soybeans,” says O’Neal, who also serves as the director for graduate education for entomology at ISU. “Checkoff funding has also invested in more basic topics, like sequencing the genome of the soybean aphid, especially those resistant to insecticides.”

Through more than two decades of soybean aphid research, O’Neal’s team has also studied insects that feed on the aphid. One approach to combating the aphid is introducing parasitoid wasps from China, where the aphid originates. As a result, at least two O’Neal’s research revealed that 100% parasitoid wasps have established in of the 2,500 soybean aphids tested Iowa to control population numbers. carry at least one gene associated with Clemmensen says growers should resistance to pyrethroids. be aware of beneficial insects when “We are now exploring if the probes deciding whether to use insecticides to made from RNA (ribonucleic acid) based manage soybean aphids. on the mutations that produced resistance “Beneficial insects can help keep can be used to selectively kill insecticidePaul Kassel, ISA soybean aphid populations under control,” resistant aphids,” says O’Neal. “In this way, District 1 Director he says. “We need to manage insecticide we hope to take advantage of the growing applications so they do not kill beneficials.” commercial interest in RNAi technology to help Researching this major threat to soybeans has soybean farmers fight back against insecticide resistance.” now expanded to explore insecticide resistance. A three-year Due to the scale of the project, research continues, more survey of commercial fields in Iowa examined the occurrence of than 20 years later. insecticide resistant aphids before and after spraying.

“We have another 2,000 aphids to analyze through our “We have been seeing a high level of tolerance to pyrethroids DNA sequencing protocol,” he says. “This data will tell us how and resistance as well,” says Clemmensen. “We need this common insecticide-resistant aphids are and which mutations research to understand what chemistries we can use to control are the most common.” soybean aphids.”

“I had never experienced such a widespread and devastating insect problem.”

Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 19

ISA THROUGH THE YEARS

2021

ISA joins other state and national commodity organizations to commit $1 million to enhance Lock and Dam #25 (Winfield, Mo) on the Mississippi River. The commitment helped underwrite costs of expanding the lock, which assists in the movement of more than 200 million soybean bushels annually to the Gulf of Mexico for export.

2022

The Iowa Biofuel Access Bill is signed into law by Governor Kim Reynolds. The bill, long supported by ISA, is the state’s most comprehensive biofuels legislation — expanding Iowa’s existing suite of tax credits and incentives, encourages the sale of higher biodiesel blends and invests in biofuel infrastructure.

Did you know

ISA INVESTS CHECKOFF DOLLARS to deliver programs and services that meet the needs of Iowa soybean farmers. From soybean research to transportation, market development to communications, ISA is home to a suite of programs that provide information and assistance to help farmers be more competitive.

Iowa Soybean Association (1964) 1964

Founded in 1964 by farmers to serve farmers, the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) is governed by a board of 22 farmers to advocate on behalf of the state’s nearly 37,000 soybean producers, including 15,000 ISA farmer members and industry stakeholders.

Learn more at iasoybeans.com.

Amplify (1998) ISA Mgmt Solutions eventually became

1998

Amplify Association Management is an accredited association management company (AMC) that elevates the impact of associations. The firm specializes in full-service management for professional and trade associations. Amplify’s adaptive partnership model offers services that scale to regional and national associations. Currently, Amplify serves a variety industries through full service, hybrid and special project partnerships. Learn more at amplifymyassociation.com.

IBB (2007)

2007 20 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

The Iowa Biodiesel Board represents the biodiesel industry in Iowa, from the farmers who grow the feedstock, to production, through distribution to end users. Iowa is the nation’s leading state in biodiesel production. Many of the state’s plants use soybean oil — an abundant local resource — to make biodiesel.

Other renewable agricultural co-products and byproducts are also used, such as beef tallow, inedible corn oil and recycled cooking grease. Learn more at iowabiodiesel.org.

Iowa farmers produce a

record 632 million

2024

bushels of soybeans.

2023

ISA celebrates its 6oth anniversary.

ISA is awarded $95 million for the creation of the Midwest Climate-Smart Commodities Project, administered by the Soil & Water Outcomes Fund (SWOF). The five-year project provides direct financial incentives to farmers for implementing climate smart practices. Iowa farmers joined USDA Sec. Tom Vilsack for the official grant signing ceremony held at Commodity Classic in Orlando, Fla.

THE ISA OFFICE IS ALSO HOME TO AgOutcomes, Inc., Amplify Association Management, Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance, Soy Transportation Coalition, the Iowa Biodiesel Board and others. Learn more about the other projects, programs and boards that also call our Ankeny office home.

169 people fed by one U.S. farmer.

ISA HAS OTHER AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS AND PROJECTS such as: Agriculture’s Clean Water Alliance (1999), The Soyfoods Council (2000), Soy Aquaculture Alliance (2011), Iowa Food & Family Project (2011), Iowa State University Iowa Soybean Research Center (2014), U.S. Soybean Research Collaborative (2022).

STC (2007) 2007

The Soy Transportation Coalition (STC) is comprised of 14 state soybean boards, the American Soybean Association, and the United Soybean Board. The participating states encompass 85% of total U.S. soybean production. STC’s goal is to position soybean industry stakeholders to benefit from a transportation system that delivers cost effective, reliable and competitive service. Learn more at soytransportation.org.

IAWA (2014) Farmers are making a difference in improving Iowa’s water quality and conserving our soil for future generations. The Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance (IAWA) provides the support and coordination to get it done.

2014

IAWA works with farmers and convenes partners to drive the adoption of conservation practices and other innovations to improve water quality. In 2014, the Iowa Soybean, Iowa Corn Growers, and Iowa Pork Producers associations formed the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance to bring all stakeholders to the table, generate financial and technical assistance for Iowa’s farmers, and find new resources and innovations to improve water quality. Go to iaagwater.org to learn more.

Ag Outcomes (2020) 2020

AgOutcomes manages the Soil & Water Outcomes Fund® (SWOF), which provides financial incentives directly for farmers who implement new conservation practices that yield environmental outcomes like carbon sequestration and water quality improvement. Participating farmers typically implement practices including no-till/reduced tillage, cover crops and extended crop rotations. Go to agoutcomes.com or visit theoutcomesfund.com.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 21

DRIVING Iowa’s Soybean Production

60 YE AR S O F I M PACT BY TH E I OWA SOYB E AN ASSOC IATION | BY KRISS N E LSON

I

n the 1920s, it was a little-known American forage crop. By 1969, U.S. farmers produced more than 75% of the world’s soybeans. By 1973, soybeans became America’s top cash crop and leading export commodity, ahead of wheat and corn.

“It is because of the effort of checkoff, growth and support of our farmers in Iowa and the leadership that has encompassed the Iowa Soybean Association for 60 years we have grown a small protein crop into a significant crop in Iowa and the world’s economy,” says Christie Wiebbecke, ISA’s chief officer of research and conservation.

Improvements through research The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) has substantially driven this evolution through checkoff-funded on-farm research.

“The legacy of the Iowa Soybean Association’s on-farm research is a long history thanks to the investment and value our farmer board and Iowa farmers see in having unbiased research that happens with their equipment in their fields in diverse geographies across the state,” says Wiebbecke.

Tony Lem, an ISA farmer member from Slater, works to adopt research data on his farm by participating in trials with ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI).

“The Iowa Soybean Association is not trying to sell me anything, they are just helping me grow a better product,” he says. “I have faith that the answers I receive from them are in my best interests.”

Checkoff-funded research has helped to evolve a Chinese vine crop into a valuable commodity, contributing $124 billion to the U.S. economy in 2023, according to a study commissioned by the Tony Lem, National Oilseed Processors Association Slater area farmer and the United Soybean Board.

22 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

“Research has led to significant improvements,” says Wiebbecke. “Because of breeding and attention to disease and pests, we have been able to improve the genetics of the crop and its resistance to different pests and diseases. Farmers’ investment in this research through checkoff dollars have helped make this research possible.”

RCFI’s goal is to deliver the best farmer-led research combining agronomic, conservation and analytics tailored for soybean farmers so they can implement results and improve their operation.

ISA Farmer Member Dan De Vries has participated in a wide range of on-farm trials with RCFI. From soybean populations to cover crops to fungicides, the Prairie City-area farmer says he looks for any opportunity to take part in on-farm research.

“I value the research done by the Iowa Soybean Association,” he says.

Dan De Vries, “They do research that is important ISA Farmer Member to the farmers. It is important to take part of our checkoff dollars and put it back onto the farm to help the farmers improve — that’s the most valuable piece I see research doing, helping our bottom line on our farm, every day, every year.”

Ensuring the future For 60 years, ISA has partnered with Iowa State University (ISU) to address production challenges that limit soybean yield and producer profitability.

Since 1972, ISA has invested more than $68 million in checkoff funding for basic and applied research conducted at Iowa State University. This partnership has worked to share results and recommendations to help Iowa soybean farmers increase yields through better disease, insect and weed management.

On-farm trials help farmers decide if a product or practice would provide benef its.

Today, ISA and ISU continue their longstanding partnership through the Iowa Soybean Research Center (ISRC) at ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, which celebrated 10 years of innovative soybean research in 2024.

“We are bringing the expertise of soybean farmers, the university and industry all together and maximizing Christie Wiebbecke, the investment for the farmer to solve ISA’s CO, Research researchable questions for the good of and Conservation the industry,” says Wiebbecke.

A holistic approach RCFI is beginning to explore the potential benefits of combining multiple best management practices and comparing them to standard practices in Iowa.

“Whether it’s fighting weeds, insects, diseases or environmental conditions, how can we help farmers maximize their profitability with the decisions they make on the farm?

Through improved cropping systems trials, we hope to help farmers decipher what decisions they make will help maximize that balance of productive, profitable and sustainable farming,” says Wiebbecke.

Split-application nitrogen management, specific cover crop species, reduced tillage and delayed cover crop termination have all shown improved profitability or increased sustainability individually. RCFI believes that when utilized together, this system can provide a more profitable and sustainable program to produce soybeans and corn in Iowa.

“Every year is a research year,” says Lem. “Each year brings you something a little different. Every step you take to improve is something you build on, and it helps you improve. The more years of research you have, the better you will be.”

Research and conservation Lem has also relied on research to assist him in adopting other conservation practices, such as bioreactors and saturated buffers.

“Our research and conservation go hand in hand,” says Wiebbecke. “We learn a lot from the work our farmers do and can design experiments to help support implementing conservation efforts. Our farmers have always been leaders in both research and conservation.”

Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com

Three new research soybean projects through the Iowa Soybean Research Center: Using Soybean Microbes as Protectants from Stress Exploring the potential for microbes to serve as protectants for plants under certain stressful conditions.

Cyst Nematode Single-Cell Omics By way of new molecular approaches, key aspects of the infection biology of the soybean cyst nematode will be uncovered.

Investigating the Specific Role of Sterols in Soybean Growth and Development The research will help identify soybean varieties with improved phytosterol content that are better adapted to stress conditions.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 23

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Surveying for Corn Rootworm Shane Beck ISA Research Agronomist sbeck@iasoybeans.com

C

orn rootworm continues to be an economically significant pest across Iowa.

In Iowa, the northern and western corn rootworms are of greatest concern.

Corn rootworms overwinter as eggs in the soil and hatch in late May to mid-June. The larvae feed on the roots of corn plants until they pupate and change into beetles.

Feeding damage on the roots can lead to a decrease in water and nutrient uptake and decreased standability.

Regardless of the observed species, two corn rootworm beetles per trap, per day, represent the economic injury level (EIL).

This means the EIL across four traps in seven days equals 56 beetles. This is the minimum number of beetles required to sustain a yield loss that is equal to the cost of a management tactic used to control the beetle population in that field.

Surveying for corn rootworm To help understand best management practices for corn rootworm, the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) conducted a multi-year survey, sampling 120-140 fields each year, with an emphasis on fields that have been continuous corn or in counties with significant continuous corn acres.

A year-over-year comparison of the counties sampled, and the average pressure observed in each county is shown in Figure 1.

The trapping duration lasted four weeks and started around the VT/R1 growth stage. This method consisted of placing four sticky traps in one row of a cornfield at 200 feet intervals. The traps were checked and replaced every week with the number of northern corn rootworms and western corn rootworms recorded separately.

Field management data was also collected to determine relationships between management

Figure 1. Yearly average pressure in each county sampled. Counties in blue were above the economic injury level.

28 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

practices and corn rootworm pressure observed in the fields.

There was a year-over-year reduction in the likelihood that corn rootworm pressure observed in the field following soybeans exceeded the EIL. Across all years, there was a consistent reduction in the likelihood of a field exceeding the EIL when the corn crop followed soybeans.

In the case of fields following corn, the EIL was exceeded in 41% of cases, while for fields following soybeans, it was exceeded in 20% of cases.

Of the fields that followed soybeans and exceeded the EIL, northern corn rootworm was the predominant species in 57 fields. Western corn rootworm was the predominant species in 26 fields.

This is likely because of the extended diapause that northern corn rootworms have developed. Extended diapause is when beetles lay their eggs in the cornfield, but then the larvae hatch two years later, making the rotation management strategy less effective.

From 2017-2024, ISA sampled 993 fields across the state in 89 counties. Farmer participants indicated that 413 of those fields used a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or RNA interference (RNAi) trait technology to help control corn rootworm pressure. Most fields surveyed used two traits to control corn rootworm, BT proteins Cry34/35Ab1 and Cry3Bb1 were the most reported Bt proteins.

When looking at the effectiveness of control with trait technology, stacking traits is a key to maintaining efficacy when paired with crop rotation.

Starting in 2022, the percentage of fields using three traits increased by adding new RNAi trait technology using the dvSnf7 trait.

From 2022 to 2024, 31% of the fields that used two traits were above the EIL, and 23% of the fields that used three traits were above the EIL.

Managing corn rootworm Strategies for managing corn rootworm vary by farmer and relative pressure, but there are three main strategies to manage this pest. It is recommended to rotate strategies to manage resistance pressure.

• Crop rotation • Use of Bt and RNAi traits • Preplant and/or foliar applied insecticides Overall, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing corn rootworm. Effectively managing the pest from year to year requires a multi-layered approach. It’s important to rotate to a non-host species crop when the pressure gets significantly above two beetles per trap, per day.

Using in-furrow and foliar applied insecticide can also be effective at managing larvae and beetles already present in a field. We advise against utilizing both an in-furrow insecticide and a trait. This can lead to increased resistance and decrease the individual effectiveness of in-furrow insecticides and traits individually.

Image 1: Three species of corn rootworms (left to right): southern (not a concern in Iowa), western and northern.

Photo credit: Adam Varenhorst/SDSU Extension

HAVE A TRIAL OR A PROJECT YOU’RE INTERESTED IN? We can consider it as a topic in a future issue. Better yet, we’ll connect you with your local expert so you can implement a trial on your farm.

515-251-8640

JMCCLURE@IASOYBEANS.COM

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meet

THE PRESIDENT

Farmer profitability, relationships top of mind for this Spencerarea farmer.

BY BETHANY BARATTA

30 | DECEMBER 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM

S

tudy the course, apply your training.

Study your fields, work the plan.

Turns out there are some similarities between the triathlons Brent Swart competes in and the acres of crops he and his brother tend in northern Iowa.

However, you won’t hear Swart talk about his efforts in triathlon training while visiting his farm near Spencer. Instead, he’s focused on the soybean producers in Iowa and the association he’s been elected to serve as president.

“It’s the profitability of the Iowa soybean farmer,” says Swart, of the top priority of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) Board of Directors. “I’ve given that same answer when soybeans were $15 and when soybeans were $9, because it’s truly that. It’s always that,” he says.

After all, the Swart family farm wouldn’t have been able to succeed five generations without the focus and discipline to make them profitable.

Technology boosts productivity After graduating from Terril High School, Swart earned his bachelor’s in agronomy and master’s in crop production and physiology from Iowa State University. He then began a 16-year career with Pioneer.

Perhaps the biggest change from riding in the tractor as a young boy with his father and grandfather to driving the tractor as an adult has been the advances in technology along the way.

“I was just coming on to the farm when technology was taking off — yield monitors, auto steer, those sorts of things were being implemented,” Swart says. It was met with some trepidation from his late father Bill.

“That was new and exciting to me, and it was new and scary to him,” Swart says.

Swart worked for one year in Indiana as a Pioneer production agronomist, then moved home to begin farming with his family and to take over a local Pioneer seed dealership.

The integration of various technologies has delivered valuable insights into every acre, helping Brent and his brother Steve farm the family’s acres since his father’s passing in July 2008.

“My brother and I, I think, have helped to grow and preserve the family farm by implementing technology and equipment, but utilizing that in a fashion with soil conservation practices, nutrient management, timing and placement of nutrients, cover crops, no-till and strip-till, things that my dad would have said, ‘Absolutely not. You guys have lost your mind. Go find something else to do.

This is a terrible idea.’ ” Participating in ISA research trials has also allowed the brothers to learn more about the best products and practices for their acres. This has helped them avoid major product purchases that wouldn’t be useful.

Leading farmers In northwest Iowa, Brent, Steve and business partner Mike Koenecke co-own Cotton Grave Farm Management, specializing in farm management and farm real estate sales. But it’s more than just guiding transactions. They actively help landowners and farmers understand how adopting various practices can improve productivity and help meet their conservation goals.

“It’s neat to help educate both the landowners and the farmers, and then help the farmers along to make it as seamless as possible to avoid hiccups in their production or their profitability,” Swart says.

He looks to ISA for the resources to help neighboring farmers understand the advantages of oxbows or participate in a trial to understand and capitalize on the optimal seeding rate for their specific farm.

He takes the conversations he has with farmers to heart as he advocates on behalf of them in Des Moines or in Washington, D.C. as ISA’s president. Having the opportunity to visit with farmers in the state and others around the world who rely on Iowa-grown soybeans has broadened his perspective.

The next generation Recently returning from India on a trade mission with the Iowa Economic Development Authority, Swart says building relationships with future partners is key.

“China India, Taiwan, the Philippines — name your country — that’s a potential buyer or a current buyer and they still want to talk to the farmer,” he says. “Even though you listen to the markets, and you hear transactional news items, that touch point is incredibly important.”

It’s miles away from his wife Mandy and his daughters, Emersyn, 5, and Quinn, 9, to ensure that the livelihood that he’s grown to love continues to the sixth generation.

“I think over time Dad would have understood and would be proud of what we’ve done here,” Swart says. “It’s something that Steve and I have put extra emphasis on because we want to leave it better than we found it. We can instill in the next generation that these efforts are not only preserving resources or our asset in farmland, but also helping us improve our soil health, yield and profitability.

Even though there have been some struggles along the way, the legacy we want to leave is in conservation.

We’re helping our own farmers while also becoming more efficient and productive along the way.”

Contact Bethany Baratta at bbaratta@iasoybeans.com.

ISA President Brent Swart leads the ISA Board of Directors, a board of 22 volunteer farmer-directors who meet throughout the year to develop ISA's policies and programs.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 31

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