Meet the Director: Sam Showalter

District 2 Director

What crops and livestock do you grow and raise on the farm?

We grow soybeans and corn. I also contract finish hogs.

What makes your farm unique?

I wouldn’t say this makes our operation unique, because there are many multigenerational family farms out there, but I farm with my dad, brother and cousin. Communication and “being on the same page” are very important to us. We feel that helps us operate with exceptional efficiency. We all have our own individual operations, but we work together and combine time and resources to get the job done effectively.

What does success mean to you on the farm?

To me, “success” is a very nuanced word. Obviously, success can be proven by operating a profitable business, but to me it also means helping to build something that can be passed on to the next generation and setting them up for success. I am the fifth generation on our family farm, and I would love to see that legacy continue in some capacity. I also see giving back to my community either through service or donations as a form of success.

How do you envision production agriculture 50 years from now?

Ag is ever changing. Sometimes for the better, sometimes not. Who am I to decipher which is which? The good thing in my eyes is that people will always need to eat, therefore there will always be opportunities for the American farmer. I see AI (artificial intelligence) and other developing technologies continue to play a larger role on the farm.

What do you see as the largest hurdle for homegrown soybeans in the future? Largest opportunity?

The largest sector of opportunities for soybeans at the current moment revolve around the biofuels space. Renewable diesel and SAF could really bring demand for biomass-based oils to an unprecedented level. Increased crush also means a surplus of meal, which could lead to a cheaper feed source for largest customers, the livestock industry. Consequently, the largest opportunities normally involve the largest hurdles. We need to be diligent in advocating for our products as the preferred domestic feedstocks for the biofuel world and make our voices heard as policy is developed in this space.

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

I am a diehard Iowa State Cyclone fan. My wife, Laura, and I attend as many football games, men’s/women’s basketball games and wrestling meets as possible.