Whether you’re dealing with drought, flood, heat or other climate-related stress, the soy checkoff is working behind the scenes to diversify U.S. soybean genetics and increase stress tolerance. We’re looking inside the bean, beyond the bushel and around the world to keep preference for U.S. soy strong. And it’s helping make a valuable impact for soybean farmers like you.
See more ways the soy checkoff is maximizing profit opportunities for soybean farmers at unitedsoybean.org
Soybean Staff
Ben Steyer Chief Executive Officer bsteyer@michigansoybean.org
Kathy Maurer Financial Director kmaurer@michigansoybean.org
Mark Seamon Research Director mseamon@michigansoybean.org
Sonja Lapak, Editor Communication Director slapak@michigansoybean.org
Katlin Fusilier Outreach Specialist kfusilier@michigansoybean.org
Hanna Campbell Demand Specialist hcampbell@michigansoybean.org
Michigan Soybean Association 3055 W M-21 St. Johns, MI 48879 Phone: 989.652.3294 soyinfo@michigansoybean.org
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Sonja Lapak slapak@michigansoybean.org
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United Soybean Board
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Advertisements within this publication contain the opinions and information of the advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the Michigan Soybean Association or affiliated groups. The United Soybean Board/soybean checkoff neither recommends nor discourages the implementation of any advice contained herein, and is not liable for the use or misuse of the information provided.
Michigan Soybean Association
Board of Directors
Larry Phelps, Vicksburg
Gary Parr, Charlotte
Tom Woelmer, Monroe
Karen Warner, Yale
Allison Morse, Birch Run
PJ Feldpausch, St. Johns
Matthew Wila, Blanchard
Rob Howland, Brown City
Heather Feuerstein, Belding
Michigan Soybean Committee
Board of Directors
Dan Rajzer, Decatur
Pete Crawford, Dansville
Laurie Isley, Palmyra
Scott Wilson, Lexington
John Burk, Bay City
Mark Senk, Owosso
Ryan Drozd, Allegan
American Soybean Association
Heather Feuerstein, Belding
Janna Fritz, Bad Axe
United Soybean Board
Laurie Isley, Palmyra
Dennis Gardner, Croswell
Carla Schultz, Mayville
North Central Soybean Research Program
Ed Cagney, Scotts
US Soybean Export Council
Dave Williams, Elsie
Clean Fuels Alliance America
Matt Stutzman, Adrian
Soy Aquaculture Alliance
Alan Moore, Bannister
Soy Transportation Coalition
Dan Rajzer, Decatur
World Initiative for Soy in Human Health
Doug Darling, Maybee
Specialty Soya & Grains Alliance
Steve Peach, Plymouth
USA Poultry & Egg Export Council
Mark Trowbridge, Leonidas
US Meat Export Federation
Brian Pridgeon, Montgomery
Farm Produce Insurance Fund
Jason Haag, Unionville
Since January 16th, my first day as the CEO of the Michigan Soybean Committee and Michigan Soybean Association, it has been a bit of a whirlwind as you can probably imagine. As farmers know, this time of year the is filled with many educational and networking events in the agriculture industry. This is also very true for the MSC and MSA staff and board of directors. It was definitely eye-opening to see the list of events and travel planned for my first few months. In addition to the usual events that many farmers attend, this time of year MSC subcommittee members are identifying the best ways to bring value to farmers across the state by evaluating projects and proposals to fund with soybean checkoff dollars.
My first week on the job included a market development meeting quarterbacked by our demand specialist, Hanna Campbell. During this meeting the market development subcommittee, made up of farmers from across the state, heard proposals from 28 different organizations. Each organization presented unique opportunities that could bring value to Michigan soybean farmers via partnerships that would increase demand, assist in transporting Michigan soybeans to different parts of the world and develop new soybean markets and uses. After much discussion, the subcommittee decided to fund 17 projects they felt would benefit soybean farmers the most. The decision-makers in the process were the farmers appointed to the subcommittee and they did not take their responsibility lightly. They know it's important to make sure their checkoff dollars provide a return on investment to Michigan soybean farmers.
The next day I joined MSC research director, Mark Seamon and the production subcommittee to review production research proposals from 23 researchers and educators. This was another busy day as we saw a non-stop rotation of impressive proposals that could positively impact operations throughout the state. It was exciting to get updates from researchers on current MSC-funded projects and learn about new opportunities to help farmers become more profitable. This subcommittee of farmers is obviously very passionate about the research being done in the state, as the results and knowledge garnered from these projects directly impacts many of the practices they implement on their own farms. It was refreshing to see the great conversations that happened between the researchers and farmers in the room, as both provided insight to each other to find ways to directly translate the research projects into practical on-farm applications. Through their evaluation process, the subcommittee was able to move forward with funding the proposals they felt would be most beneficial for soybean growers.
Since January 16th I have gotten many congratulatory messages. One follow-up question I get a lot is, “What do you guys do at Michigan Soybean?”. Although there is much more that goes into what we do, hopefully the two examples above (that I experienced in just my first week) serve as helpful illustrations of how soybean checkoff dollars are spent to bring value and a return on investment to Michigan soybean farmers. The staff facilitates meetings and brings new ideas to the table, but at the end of the day MSC and MSA are farmer-driven organizations. The more engaged and active farmers that we have involved with the organization, the better we can serve the soybean farmers in our state. If you are on the fence about whether or not to get involved, I encourage you to reach out to me, other staff members or one of our board members to discuss the possibility.
While I am truly excited to have the opportunity to serve as the CEO of the Michigan Soybean Committee and Michigan Soybean Association, I also feel a great deal of responsibility to provide value to the soybean farmers in the state. Being raised on a corn and soybean farm in northwest Ohio and marrying into a farming family in Monroe County enhances the obligation I feel to deliver results to you all - the hard-working farmers and your families. I know the rest of the team feels that same responsibility and I’m excited to work alongside of them and our board members to bring that ROI to Michigan soybean farmers.
Ben Steyer, Chief Executive Officer bsteyer@michigansoybean.orgThe winners of the 2022 Michigan Soybean Association (MSA) yield contest were announced at the end of the 2022 calendar year and celebrated again at the MSA Annual Meeting of Members held during the Great Lakes Crop Summit.
In 2022, there were 73 entries from soybean farmers across Michigan. The contest was sponsored by the Michigan Soybean Committee, Agri-Gold, Asgrow, Brevant, DF Seeds, Dynagro, Golden Harvest, NK, Pioneer, Renk Seed, Stine, Xitavo, and ZFSelect. MSA would like to thank the sponsors of this year's contest for their generous support. Without it, the contest would not be possible.
Farmers from around the state entered outstanding yields in each of the six categories. The winner in each category received a plaque and a $1,000 cash prize. Additional information about the contest and harvested entry data can be found at www.misoy.org/yield-contest . Details about the 2023 contest will be posted on our website and social media, and will be included in future issues of the Michigan Soybean News magazine.
The Michigan Soybean Association announced results of their director election during their Annual Meeting of Members, held in conjunction with the Great Lakes Crop Summit at the end of January.
In District 1, Larry Phelps of Vicksburg was reelected for a second term. Larry raises soybeans, corn and wheat and is active in the Kalamazoo County Farm Bureau.
In District 4, Karen Warner of Yale was elected. Karen farms soybeans and wheat with her husband. She is also involved in the St. Clair County Farm Bureau and is a current participant in the MABA Leadership Program. Off the farm, Karen works as a grain merchant at Michigan Agricultural Commodities.
Matthew Wila of Blanchard was elected to represent District 7. In addition to farming, Matthew is employed as an agronomy salesperson with Star of the West and also custom harvests corn, soybeans and small grains.
Congratulations to Larry, Karen and Matthew!
The MSA board also recognized outgoing leaders during the annual meeting. Nick Stone of Sandusky represented District 4 and Kyle Crumbaugh of St. Louis represented District 7. Nick and Kyle each served a three year term. Thank you to Nick and Kyle for their service and leadership!
Larry Phelps Karen Warner Matthew Wila Nick StoneNEW MEMBERS:
Philip Kaatz, Lapeer
James Patrick LaPorte, Cassopolis
Tracy Ostrander, Lansing
Brett Pyper, Hudsonville
Karen Warner, Yale
Donald Wila, Wayland
RENEWING MEMBERS:
Harlow Bailey, Schoolcraft
Max Benne, Sturgis
Carlton Blough, Lowell
John Boegner, Marlette
Russell Braun, Ovid
David Conklin, Corunna
Kevin Daley, Lum
Heather Feuerstein, Belding
Ronald Gerstenberger, Sandusky
Mark Hinterman, Durand
Terry Histed, Munger
Jerry Hubbard, Union City
Scott Jirgens, Kalamazoo
Mary Kelpinski, East Lansing
Kurt Kreger, Snover
Charles Lewis, North Street
Ryan Loew, Byron Center
Allison Morse, Birch Run
Brian Rueger, Standish
Steve W Schlagel, Turner
Dan Secord, Monroe
Carla Schultz, Mayville
Theresa Sisung, Lansing
Snider Farms, LLC, Hart
Nicholas Stone, Sandusky
Paul Taylor, Ottawa Lake
Matthew Wila, Wayland
Scott Wilson, Lexington
Tom Woelmer, Monroe
Jim Zook, Lansing
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• Dues are not tax deductible as a charitable contribution for federal tax purposes, but may be deductible as a business expense.
• 18% of member dues are allocated to lobbying activities and are not deductible.
Mail application with payment to:
Michigan Soybean Association
3055 W M-21, St. Johns, MI 48879
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Paying the soybean checkoff does not make you an MSA member. Checkoff dollars cannot be used for lobbying. Your membership is critical to our efforts on behalf of Michigan soybean farmers!
For more information on member benefits, visit www.misoy.org/member-benefits/. Member benefits include:
• Scholarship opportunities for your children and grandchildren
• Preferred vehicle pricing opportunities
• Cabela’s gift card purchase discount
• Discounted registration to Commodity Classic
• Annual $75 seed coupon for renewing members to use with our partnering seed companies
• The MOST IMPORTANT MSA member benefit: Having a voice in Lansing and Washington, D.C.!
February was a busy month for the advocacy/ education efforts of the Michigan Soybean Association (MSA) and Michigan Soybean Committee (MSC). In early February, MSA and MSC staff presented at the Michigan AgriBusiness Association's Lansing Ag Club breakfast. The monthly breakfast features updates from ag commodity groups, energy companies, state employees, MSU faculty, and perhaps most importantly…legislators. The staff presentation focused on the soybean industry and its impact on Michigan and the entire country.
At the end of February, we had plans in place to host our Legislative Luncheon at the state capitol, but that event was unfortunately canceled when the legislature canceled session due to an ice storm. That event provides a great opportunity to educate lawmakers on the importance of our industry and meet with state department heads. We are working to reschedule this valuable event for later this year.
Meanwhile, the Michigan Legislature and Governor passed a $1 billion supplemental budget in January and announced a plan for a tax cut for Michigan residents. Governor Whitmer also unveiled her Fiscal Year 2023-24 budget proposal.
After an abbreviated lame duck session following the 2022 election, the Michigan Legislature was forced to pass a “close of books” supplemental budget last month. The final figures for the supplemental budget totaled over $1 billion. Some of the highlights of the plan include:
• $200 million for a paper mill in Escanaba owned by Billerud. Billerud is an international paper company that committed to a $1.2 billion investment in the U.P.
• $150 million for Michigan’s Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve Fund (SOAR).
• $150 million for an affordable housing tax credit.
• $100 million for community revitalization grants.
• $75 million for a blight elimination program.
• $75 million for small business smart zones.
At her State-of-the-State address in January,
Governor Whitmer announced a “Lowering MI Costs” plan which was a combination of tax cuts and tax credits. At a press conference earlier this month, Governor Whitmer, Senate Majority Leader Brinks, and Speaker of the House Tate unveiled the details of the plan which includes:
• Phasing out the Pension Tax - The plan phases out the pension tax over four years. It will equalize the exemption on both public and private pensions.
• Increasing the Earned Income Tax CreditIncreasing the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) from 6 percent to 30 percent. It figures to provide a tax refund of $3,150 to 700,000 families. The plan is retroactive for tax year 2022.
• Checks to Michiganders - $180 checks to every Michigan tax filer.
In January, the newly elected Democrat majorities in the Michigan Senate and Michigan House of Representatives announced a handful of their legislative priorities for the 2023-24 session. They include:
• Repeal of “Right to Work” - This law was passed in 2012. The 2012 legislation barred labor contracts from requiring workers to become union members or pay union dues. The Democrats would like this law repealed.
• Reinstating Prevailing Wage - The prevailing wage law previously required contractors to
Jason Wadagapay union wages and benefits on state-funded projects. This was repealed in 2018 and the Democrats would it reinstated.
• Repeal the “Pension Tax” - One of the first major pieces of legislation that former Governor Snyder was able to pass in 2011 was a tax on pensions. The legislation introduced would repeal that tax.
• Expand the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)The proposed legislation is to provide an income tax credit for lower and moderate income workers moving it from 6 percent to 30 percent.
• Expand the Elliot-Larson Civil Rights ActCodify into law a court decision that makes protections based on sex and gender identity.
• Repeal Michigan’s Abortion Ban - Despite the passage of Proposal 3 which was on the ballot in 2022, the legislation would repeal Michigan’s 1931 ban on Abortion.
As is customary for Michigan Governors every February, Governor Whitmer presented her budget proposal for the FY 23-24 state budget to the
Michigan Legislature. The roughly $79 billion dollar budget spends most of the $9 billion surplus the state had on the books. The highlights of her budget proposal include:
• $18.6 billion for the School Aid Fund
• $900 million to create a “Rainy Day Fund” for schools
• $210 million to increase wages for nursing home employees
• $500 million annually for the Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR)
• $500 million for school infrastructure
• $200 Million for the “Michigan Regional Empowerment Program"
• Free lunch for all public-school students
• $150 million to purchase electric school buses
• $100 million for drinking water infrastructure
• $100 million to maintain state buildings
• $89 million for revenue sharing
The budget proposal is the first step in the long process of creating a budget for this fiscal year. The House and Senate chambers will now begin to negotiate their spending priorities.
You can view the full budget proposal at www. Michigan.gov/budget.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently announced one new appointment and one reappointment to the Michigan Soybean Committee board of directors.
Ryan Drozd of Allegan is an owner and partner in his family's farm, Drozd Family Grain. He holds a bachelor’s degree in farm management from Purdue University. Ryan was appointed to represent District 7 growers for a term commencing September 2022 and expiring September 2025.
Mark Senk of Owosso is the owner of Mark Senk Farms. Mark was reappointed to represent District 6 growers for a term commencing September 2022 and expiring September 2025.
“The Michigan Soybean Committee is led by a board of industry leaders with expertise and knowledge that benefits all Michigan soybean farmers. Mark and Ryan are great examples of strong leaders who are committed to being good stewards of soybean checkoff funds,” said MSC communication director Sonja Lapak. “Mark has been a great asset to the board during his first term, and we are excited for him to continue to grow as a leader in our organization. Ryan is tasked with serving on behalf of District 7, our largest district geographically. His connections to west Michigan agriculture will serve him well in his new role, and we are glad to have him on board."
MSC would like to congratulate Mark and Ryan on their appointments to the MSC board of directors. We look forward to working with these farmers and appreciate their willingness to serve the Michigan soybean industry.
MSC would also like to recognize and thank Steve Koeman for his nine years of service on the Michigan Soybean Committee board of directors. Steve, who farms in Hamilton, served on MSC's production, outreach, market development and administration and resources subcommittees, and also served as MSC's secretary for a number of years during his time on the board. He also brought livestock expertise to the board, as Steve raises hogs in addition to cash crops on his farm. He was a strong advocate for MSC's research program and was engaged with many of MSU's researchers.
Thank you to Steve for his dedication and time spent serving Michigan's soybean growers.
Ryan Drozd Mark Senk
Herbicide resistance in weeds in not a new issue for Michigan, but these enemies are ever changing. Screening of weeds for resistance at Michigan State University (MSU) was initiated in 1980 with the confirmation of triazine resistance in common lambsquarters. For the past decade plus, a concerted and consistent effort to screen questionable populations has been ongoing thanks to collaborations between the Michigan Soybean Committee, Michigan Vegetable Council, MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics and MSU weed scientists. Below are details on the latest trends in resistance in Michigan; all confirmed cases of resistance down to the county level can be found on an interactive map at www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/ resources/plant-and-weed-identification/map
Multiple resistance is the loss of weed control efficacy from herbicides in two or more site of action groups. (Learn more about site of action group numbers at iwilltakeaction.com/weeds/siteof-action )
• Three-way multiple resistance to glyphosate(e.g. Roundup, Group 9), ALS inhibitors (e.g. Harmony, Group 2), and atrazine (Group 5) in Palmer amaranth (2012)
• Three-way multiple resistance to glyphosate, ALS, and PPO (e.g. Flexstar, Group 14) inhibiting herbicides in waterhemp (2020)
• Two-way multiple resistance to glyphosate + ALS inhibiting herbicides in marestail/ horseweed, Palmer amaranth, waterhemp, and common ragweed (Figure 1)
• Two-way multiple resistance to ALS and PPO inhibiting in common ragweed
• Glyphosate resistance in giant ragweed
In the past five years several new cases of resistance in Michigan have been noted. Not all of these were located in soybeans or field crop rotations.
Figure 1. Prevalence of two-way multiple resistance to glyphosate + ALS inhibiting herbicides in Michigan. Note, these findings are based solely on suspicious populations submitted to MSU, no statewide collection/screening has been conducted, therefore absence of letters or color does not guarantee no resistance exists.
• Clopyralid resistance (i.e. Stinger, Group 4) in common ragweed (2017)
• PPO inhibitor resistance in Palmer amaranth & waterhemp (2018 and 2020, respectively)
• ACCase resistance (e.g. SelectMax, Group 1) in large crabgrass (2019)
• New pigweed species, purple amaranth, identified (2019, Figure 2) and confirmed resistant to triazine and urea herbicides (e.g. Caparol and Lorox, Group 5)
• Glyphosate resistance (e.g. Roundup, Group 9) in giant ragweed (2016) annual ryegrass (2020)
• ALS inhibitor resistance in johnsongrass and fall panicum (2020 still being confirmed and 2021, respectively)
Dr. Erin C. Hill, Michigan State University Plant and Pest DiagnosticsThe total number of weed populations submitted for herbicide resistance has dwindled from a high of 70 populations submitted in 2016 to a new low of only one population submitted in 2022. While fewer in number, the requests for screens are getting more diverse. Different species are being submitted outside the usual five (i.e. marestail/horseweed, Palmer amaranth, waterhemp, common and giant ragweed and common lambsquarters), with a particular increase in grass species. The focus is also shifting slightly away from glyphosate as the main herbicide of concern, a trend that is expected to continue as new crop and herbicide technologies are introduced. While the turnaround time of these bioassay screens can be lengthy, the beauty lies in their flexibility to meet changing agricultural needs. We expect developing molecular technologies and alternative assays will increasingly aid in these efforts as well.
YES, we should be on the lookout and screening populations for suspected resistance to 2,4-D and/ or dicamba with the increasing use of Enlist™ and Roundup Ready 2 Xtend® systems. Resistance to 2,4-D in wild carrot was confirmed in Michigan back in 1993 and we have since seen other species in the U.S. such as kochia, Palmer amaranth and waterhemp develop resistance to this herbicide. Dicamba resistance has also been noted in the U.S. as early as 1994 in kochia and since that time in Palmer amaranth, waterhemp and prickly lettuce. In several of these cases, particularly in the Amaranth/ Pigweed family, we are seeing 2,4-D and/or dicamba resistance appear in multiple-resistant populations.
Season after season, GreenStone is here to support your efforts, providing financial tools and cooperative benefits so you can focus on what you do best. Let us help make the journey easier, your local team is ready to assist with your lending needs.
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Who should I contact if I have weed escapes I suspect are due to resistance?
Please feel free to contact me directly (Erin Hill: hiller12@msu.edu , 517.432.9693) or your local MSU Extension personnel to discuss suspicions of resistance. More information on herbicide resistance screening can also be found on the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics website at www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/submitsamples/herbicide-resistant-weeds-in-Michigan
Year Number of Samples Submitted
2016 70 (50 MSC funded)
2017 53 (35 MSC funded)
2018 39 (30 MSC funded)
2019 21 (12 MSC funded)
2020 19 (9 MSC funded)
2021 14 (5 MSC funded)
• PPO resistance in common ragweed first noted (Saginaw & Huron)
• Dicamba added to screenings for marestail, amaranth and ragweed species
• Clopyralid resistance in common ragweed
• PPO resistance in palmer amaranth (+glyphosate) first noted in MI (Mason)
• Purple amaranth first identified & PSII resistance (Allegan)
• ACCase resistance in large crabgrass
• Requests for large crabgrass & barnyardgrass screening
• Three-way resistance in waterhemp - glyphosate, ALS, PPO (Ottawa)
• Annual ryegrass - glyphosate resistance (St. Joseph)
• Fall panicum - ALS resistance (Clinton)
• Native six weeks fescue - glyphosate resistance (Hillsdale)
• ALS resistance in johnsongrass (St. Joesph)
Earlier this year, a group of 15 Michigan soybean farmers and staff traveled to Morocco to learn more about the relationship between Moroccan feed and food producers and U.S. agricultural products - specifically U.S.-grown soybean meal. This experience provided farmers the opportunity to see firsthand where their soybeans go and how they are used to feed a growing nation.
Morocco, which is situated on the northwest corner of the African continent, is the 4th largest economy in Africa. It is located within the Mahgreb region of Africa, which also includes Algeria, Libya, Mauritania and Tunisia. Morocco is the largest importer of soybean meal in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and one of the top 15 importers of U.S. soybean meal overall.
The group started their visits in Casablanca and made their way south to Marrakesh as well as the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and the Agafay Desert. They got to experience both urban and rural parts of the country and meet with leaders in the food and feed sectors.
Morocco's population is on the rise and with that comes an increased demand for meat protein options. (Morocco is home to 37 million people, and its population is projected to hit 46 million by 2025.) This provides many potential market opportunities for U.S. soybean meal. An added benefit to trade with the U.S. is that all U.S. imports to Morocco are duty free due to the United States-Morocco Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The country has the largest compound feed production system in Maghreb markets, and their livestock sectors continue to see expansion and advancements. Poultry is the largest sector of their livestock industry. In fact, over 55 percent of protein consumed in Morocco is poultry.
According to 2020 numbers from the United States Soybean Export Council (USSEC), Morocco raises a combined total of 5.3 million dairy and beef cattle, 21 million sheep and goats and 413 million chickens and turkeys annually, with those numbers projected to rise.
"As a livestock farmer myself, it's been rewarding to
see the value the poultry integrators here place on U.S. soybean meal as a key feed ingredient," shared Brian Pridgeon, MSC's representative on the United States Meat Export Federation (USMEF).
In addition to growing demand for protein, there is also a shift occurring related to food production and processing practices. Historically, poultry is processed in a wet market setting, allowing consumers to choose their meat directly. They have confidence in the harvest of the animals and know they are getting a fresh product. That said, preference is slowly starting to shift. Many younger people and those in urban areas are developing a preference for meat available in more traditional supermarkets and grocery stores, which has been processed in a more conventional way.
This shift is also facilitating the need for larger poultry farm operations to meet the demand for these processing facilities. This all points to a direct opportunity for increased soybean meal demand. Additionally, this is allowing growth in the feed mill space. Many of the larger feed mills in Morocco are working on vertical integration including broiler houses
and hatcheries.
The group was able to visit three feed mills: Alf Mabrouk Company Feed Mill, Alf Afriquia Feed Mill and Turkey Processor, and Alf El Fellous Mill. The managers of the facilities discussed the preferences and needs of their customers. Much of their feed is bagged, as the farms are small and don't have the means to transport continued on following page...
Michigan attendees included Doug Darling, Janna Fritz, Nick Stone, Jim Isley, Laurie Isley, Pete Crawford, Hanna Campbell, Mark Senk, John Burk, Katlin Fusilier, Sonja Lapak, Heather Feuerstein, Brian Pridgeon, Tom Woelmer and Allison Morse.or store large quantities of feed. However, they are seeing more demand for bulk feed as larger operations are constructed. In addition to poultry feed, the feed mills also produce feed for cattle, sheep, goats and aquaculture along with pet food products.
During the visits to feed mills, flour mills and training facilities for both the food and feed sectors, the group repeatedly heard about the strong preference and demand for U.S. soy over competitors because of the superior quality of the soybeans and meal raised here. U.S. soybeans have a better amino acid profile, which is critical when balancing livestock rations, and in many cases viewed as more important than crude protein content. Because U.S. soybean meal is known for its quality, Khalid Benabdeljelil, the USSEC country representative in Morocco, says the U.S. holds about 60 percent of soybean meal market share.
Another important part of the trip was learning about the investments of U.S. agriculture organizations in Moroccan food and feed endeavors. The group heard presentations from the United States Soybean Export Council, United States Department of Agriculture - Foreign Ag Service (USDA-FAS) and USA Poultry and Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) about ways they work with the Moroccan government and Moroccan companies to bolster the agriculture industry and improve the food sector.
They also visited the Wheat Training Center, which is supported in part by U.S. Wheat Associates. The
facility trains technical workers on bakery and food service work, flour milling, culinary arts and pasta and couscous production.
Investments by U.S. organizations in these facilities and training programs helps build relationships with Moroccan food and feed manufacturers and provides a conduit for continued demand of American-grown agricultural products. "Investments by American commodity organizations in the Moroccan workforce and agriculture sector directly advance our U.S. commodity markets, and it's been a great opportunity to see this in action," shared MSC President Mark Senk.
"Building relationships with the buyers of our products is something they value almost as much as quality and price," he continued. "Sharing more about farming in Michigan helps make connections that will continue to grow for years to come."
Because of it's location on the Atlantic Ocean and proximity to Europe, Morocco serves as a gateway for many products to much of northern Africa. Casablanca is home to the Tangier-Med Port, the world's 23rd largest port. Located on the Strait of Gibralter, the port has the capacity to handle nine million containers and is located along many maritime routes connecting Europe, Africa and the Americas.
Morocco also has a strong European influence and is much more Western than most of Africa. Because of its advanced industry and economy, as well as its geography, it serves as a great connector between U.S. agriculture organizations and other growing markets for U.S. ag products.
Zoopole
The Moroccan workforce is over-saturated and the country struggles with high unemployment. The government has invested in programs to help counteract this by strengthening the middle class and providing opportunities for people to succeed in rural and agrarian areas. There is a focus on making farming a reliable way to make a living and also an emphasis on improving the sustainability of Moroccan agriculture.
King Mohammed VI's most recent agricultural strategy plan, called "Al Jayl Al Akhdar Plan" (Green Generation) 2021-2030, emphasizes the need for skilled workers to help grow and protect the food supply. The plan also focuses on investing in training opportunities
and leveraging partnerships to expand offerings for the students looking to gain training and hands on experiences before entering the workforce.
One example of this type of hands-on educational opportunity is Zoopole. Zoopole is a diversified livestock training facility that offers courses on artificial insemination, milk quality control, butchery, feed ration development, food safety, animal handling and more. They offer short courses for industry professionals as well as more robust training for young people entering the workforce.
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is a livestock training facility for Moroccans and those from other North African countries.
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In addition to the many tours, site visits and meetings with food and agriculture entities, the group also got to take in some of the culture and experience different parts of the country. They journeyed from Casablanca, a large city with a heavy European influence to Marrakesh, a much more traditional city filled with beautiful goods and culture. They visited traditional souks and saw the work of many artisans and craftsmen who make a living selling their handmade goods. The impressive artistry ranged from pottery to silver work, leather goods and handmade shoes.
The group also toured the Hassan II Mosque, the largest functioning mosque in Africa and 7th largest in the world. The people of Morocco are known for their hospitality, friendliness and culture, and the people the group encountered embodied all that and more. It was an incredible experience to learn from the Moroccan people and share a bit about Michigan agriculture half a world away.
Farm equipment for sale
The 2023 Great Lakes Crop Summit (GLCS) drew record attendance this year, with nearly 1,200 people attending the two-day conference in Mt. Pleasant, Mich. This annual conference brings together corn, soybean and wheat farmers from across the state for educational sessions, networking and a trade show featuring more than 60 agribusinesses.
The event is hosted by the Michigan Soybean Committee, Corn Marketing Program of Michigan and Michigan Wheat Program.
Soybean breakout session topics included pushing yields, checkoff funded research efforts, soil fertility, grain trading trends and opportunities and more. Speakers came from across the U.S. and Canada to share their knowledge with attendees and offer actionable information that growers can use on their farms.
Keynotes included Gregg Doud of Aimpoint Research who shared a presentation titled "The Global Ag Geopolitical and Trade Landscape" and Damian Mason who discussed "The Ations of Agriculture."
“The Great Lakes Crop Summit is the only event in Michigan tailored specifically to the needs of corn, soybean and wheat farmers,” said Kristin Poley, event coordinator for GLCS. “This record attendance reflects the value that farmers see in the learning and networking opportunities provided by the event. We thank Michigan farmers for their continued support, and we look forward to next year!”
Next year’s event will take place January 24 and 25, 2024 and will mark GLCS’s 10th anniversary.
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.
1/2 of 1% of the total selling price collected per the national soybean act & order
Half goes to the state checkoff for investment in areas that are a priority for that state.
OPPORTUNITIES
unitedsoybean.org
Half goes to the national checkoff for investment in USB’s long-range strategic plan.
Led by 73 volunteer soybean farmers, the United Soybean Board (USB) invests and leverages soy checkoff dollars to MAXIMIZE PROFIT
for all U.S. soybean farmers.
The Michigan soybean checkoff is assessed at the rate of one-half of one percent (.005) of the net market value of soybeans sold by the producer to the first purchaser.
Checkoff assessments collected by Michigan first purchasers must be remitted to the Michigan Soybean Committee. The funds are used for production research, market development and outreach efforts on behalf of Michigan’s 12,000+ soybean farmers.
Thank you to the first purchasers who collect the checkoff each month! Their cooperation is a critical step in helping ensure checkoff funds are utilized for the collective benefit of Michigan soybean farmers.
Acres Cooperative
ADM Edible Bean Specialties, Inc.
ADM Grain Co.
American Soy Products Inc.
Armada Grain Co.
Battle Creek Farm Bureau Assn.
Bierlein Seed Inc.
Caledonia Farmers Elevator
Cargill
Ceres Solutions
Commodity Exchange Inc.
Community Mills Inc.
John Marion Inc.
Jorgensen Farm Elevator
Litchfield Grain Co.
MAC
Masserant's Feed & Grain
Mathews Elevator
Maybee Farmers Inc.
Michiana Feed
Millington Elevator & Supply
Moline Coop
Morning Star Grain, LLC
Musgrove Grain, LLC
Sunrise Food International Inc.
The Andersons
Turner Bean & Grain
Vita Plus
Vogelsberg Grain Co.
Voyces Elevator Inc.
Waldron Grain & Fuel Co.
Westphalia Milling Co.
Witt Seed Farm
Wittstock Bros.
Zeeland Farm Service Inc.
ZFS Ithaca, LLC
Mike Staton, MSU Extension Soybean Educator
Soybean yields and net income can be reduced when essential nutrients are not available at the time, or in the quantities required by the crop. However, net income is also reduced when applied nutrients fail to produce yield increases large enough to offset their costs. The following research-based nutrient management recommendations will maximize soybean income.
Soil pH:
While soybeans can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels (6.0 to 7.0), the ideal pH for soybean production is between 6.3 and 6.5 to maximize biological nitrogen fixation and nutrient availability. Soil pH levels above 6.5 have been shown to reduce manganese availability and increase soybean cyst nematode populations. Variable rate lime application based on grid sampling or management group sampling is highly recommended.
Starter Fertilizer (2x2 and In-furrow):
Starter fertilizers (2x2 and in-furrow) have produced mixed results in on-farm trials. In-furrow fertilizer increased soybean yields in two of 11 trials and decreased yields at one location. Starter fertilizer placed in a 2x2 band increased soybean yields in eight of 26 trials and decreased yields at two sites. Eleven of the 2x2 starter fertilizer trials were conducted in 2021 and 2022. Only two of these were profitable and the average net income for all eleven trials was in the red by more than $30.00 per acre. The potential for a positive yield response from starter fertilizer increases when phosphorus and potassium soil test levels are below the critical levels for these nutrients and/or cool or dry soil conditions occur after planting.
Foliar Fertilization:
Foliar fertilization has produced mixed results in hundreds of university trials conducted across the U.S. and is rarely profitable. Due to producer interest, 156 on-farm foliar fertilizer trials have been conducted in Michigan since 2009. Fifteen of the trials (10 percent) were profitable. Due to the low probability of a profitable response, foliar fertilization of soybeans is not recommended unless manganese deficiency symptoms are visible.
Nitrogen:
Biological nitrogen fixation conducted by wellnodulated soybeans combined with nitrogen mineralized from soil organic matter provides sufficient nitrogen for optimum soybean production in most cases. Therefore, nitrogen fertilizer applications to soybeans are rarely profitable and are not recommended. Research results from five on-farm trials support this. Three trials conducted
in 2011 and 2012 showed that late-season nitrogen applications on irrigated, coarse-textured soils did not increase soybean yields. In 2016, three nitrogen rates (0, 40 and 100 pounds of N per acre) applied as anhydrous ammonia were compared at one site. The 100 pounds per acre rate yielded 2.5 bushels per acre less than the 0 pounds per acre rate and the yields from the 40 pounds per acre rate and the 0 pounds per acre rate were not significantly different. In another trial conducted in 2016, six gallons per acre of 28% UAN banded two inches beside the row at planting failed to increase soybean yields.
Phosphorus:
Soybean yield responses to applied phosphorus (P) using any application method have not been consistently demonstrated and are not expected when soil test P levels exceed 20 ppm reported as Mehlich III. However, maintenance levels of P fertilizer are required to keep P soil test levels between 20 and 40 ppm. Soybeans remove 0.8 pounds of P 2 0 5 per bushel per acre so a 60 bushel per acre soybean crop removes 48 pounds per acre of P 2 0 5 . The maintenance application can be applied biannually in corn-soybean rotations produced on mineral soils if the fertilizer is applied prior to planting corn, the pH is below 7.4 and the application rate accounts for the P removed by both crops.
Potassium:
Soybean producers can make important potash allocation decisions by comparing their K soil test levels to the values listed in Table 1. If your K soil test levels are at least 10 ppm above the critical level, eliminating potash applications should not adversely affect 2023 soybean yields or drop K soil test levels below the critical level.
However, if your soil test levels are less than 10 ppm above the critical levels, a maintenance level K application is warranted. The K levels reported in
Table 1 are Mehlich III values. If your soil test report lists K levels as ammonium acetate values, multiply by 1.14 to convert to Mehlich III.
Maintenance levels of K fertilizer should be applied when necessary to keep the K soil test level above the critical level. Soybeans remove 1.15 pounds of K 2 O per bushel per acre. Therefore, the maintenance application rate for a 60 bushel per acre soybean crop is 70 lbs. of K 2 O or 117 pounds of 0-0-60 per acre. The maintenance application can be applied biannually in corn-soybean rotations produced on mineral soils under the following conditions:
• The fertilizer is applied prior to planting corn
• The application rate accounts for the K removed by both crops
• The CEC is 5 meq/100g or higher When applying K fertilizer prior to planting soybeans, spring applications (two weeks prior to planting) are recommended over fall applications
on coarse-textured soils having CECs less than 5 meq/100g and organic soils to avoid leaching losses.
Sulfur:
Due to declining atmospheric deposition, supplemental sulfur may be required to maximize soybean yields in Michigan. This is especially true in coarse-textured soils low in organic matter. Sulfur is required early in the season, therefore fertilizers should be applied prior to planting or in a 2x2 band at planting. Twenty pounds per acre of actual sulfur is sufficient to maximize soybean yields in broadcast applications. Do not apply more than 15 pounds per of actual sulfur in a 2x2 band at planting.
Boron:
Soybeans are classified as having a low probability of responding to applied boron even on soils having low soil test levels. However, university research trials conducted in other states have shown modest yield responses to applied boron. Given this information, the Michigan Soybean On-Farm Research program conducted four broadcast boron trials and seven foliar boron trials. Boron did not increase soybean yield in any of the trials.
Manganese:
Manganese (Mn) deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency seen in Michigan soybeans. Deficiency symptoms are common on muck or darkcolored sands with pH levels above 5.8 and lake-bed or glacial outwash soils having pH levels above 6.5. Because increasing the available manganese levels in the soil is difficult, deficiency symptoms will reoccur in the same areas each year that soybeans are grown. Broadcast applications are not recommended due to high soil fixation. Band application of chelated manganese is not recommended either due to high fertilizer costs. Foliar application of manganese sulfate at one to two pounds per acre of actual manganese is the most economical and effective method for correcting manganese deficiency. Apply one pound per acre of actual Mn when the first deficiency symptoms appear (six-inch-tall plants) and apply another one to two pounds per acre in 10 days if deficiency symptoms reappear. Manganese sulfate should not be tankmixed with glyphosate and the two products should be applied at least three days apart. Two on-farm trials conducted on muck soils in 2013 showed that manganese sulfate monohydrate fertilizer produced
more yield (1.9 bushels per acre) and income ($23 per acre) than a common EDTA chelate manganese fertilizer. Another on-farm research trial conducted at two potentially responsive sites (lakebed soils with a pH of 7.4) in 2013 confirmed that manganese foliar fertilizer application in the absence of visible deficiency symptoms will not increase soybean yields.
Iron:
Soybeans are highly responsive to iron but visual deficiency symptoms are rarely seen in Michigan. Iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) is most likely to occur on calcareous, lake-bed soils having soil pH levels greater than 7.4. Consider selecting IDC tolerant varieties when growing soybeans on these soils.
Maintaining critical P and K soil test levels with broadcast fertilizer, managing soil pH in the optimum range and identifying and correcting manganese deficiency early are the keys to fertilizing soybeans in Michigan.
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The Michigan Soybean Committee (MSC) and Michigan Soybean Association (MSA) are longtime sponsors of the February Lansing Ag Club Breakfast, hosted by the Michigan Agri-Business Association (MABA). During this year's session, staff shared a presentation on MSC and MSA outreach efforts and the work both organizations are doing to connect with consumers, college students, young farmers and other target audiences.
This event is a great opportunity to share new and exciting projects both Michigan soybean organizations are working on. It brings together a curated audience of commodity group leaders, farmers, agriculture industry staff, regulators, academic professionals and legislators and fosters conversations and collaboration.
MSC highlights included updates on their work with The Henry Ford Museum, their partnership with MSU Athletics and their Soybeans Go To School kit. MSA shared information on their college scholarship program and young farmer membership, as well as other ways they are working to engage young people in agriculture. Attendees also participated in some soybean trivia, which is utilized at soybean events to engage with consumers.
MSC and MSA appreciate MABA's coordination of this event and are already looking forward to the next one!
Arenewed focus on consumer outreach was just one of the outcomes of the Michigan Soybean Committee's new strategic plan.
As part of their efforts to connect with more consumers and share soybean information that is relevant to them, MSC partnered with MSU Athletics on advertising and marketing opportunities, as well as event sponsorships to help them meet consumers where they are and engage in conversations about agriculture and soy products. MSC advertising was seen in Spartan Stadium and the Breslin Center all season long and was also featured in event programs and on the MSU Athletics website.
MSC was the game sponsor of the November 19th football game vs. Indiana. Despite the frigid temperatures and blowing snow, farmers and staff were able to engage with tailgaters and Spartan fans at their booth near the Spartan Statue, at tailgates across campus and inside Spartan Stadium.
They gave out over 2,000 donuts (fried in high oleic soybean oil) to tailgaters across campus and shared information about this healthier oil option. They also had a booth with a tractor, soybean trivia plinko and a soy products display, which allowed for engagement with fans as they headed to the stadium. Thank you to Farm Depot of Ionia for providing the tractor for the day
- it was a great conversation starter and attention getter that drew people into the booth.
On January 19th, MSC was the game sponsor of the MSU men's basketball game against Rutgers. During that game, there was MSC advertising and recognition in the arena and a booth on the concourse where attendees learned more about Michigan soybeans before and during the game.
MSC also had a booth in the Breslin Center for the February 12th women's basketball game vs. Penn State. This game was the annual 4-H game, which 4-H members and their families can attend. In addition to the game, there were booths around the arena for youth
to learn about agriculture and Extension opportunities available to them. MSC staff were on hand to share soybean information and had many great conversations about agriculture.
This partnership has been a rewarding and successful endeavor that MSC looks forward to continuing. It's rewarding to see people's surprise when they learn that soybeans are found in many items they use every day, including Goodyear tires and Skechers shoes. These conversations are helping to build trust in agriculture and tell the story of how Michigan soybeans touch every life, every day.
Planting soybeans early is not a new idea to most Michigan farmers. The number of frost-free days in Michigan continues to increase. In fact there are now about two weeks more frost-free days than there were 40 years ago, which allows some opportunities to plant crops earlier than the historical average. While the growing season is now extended, the amount of precipitation is also increasing, which creates more days of being rained out of the field. These facts are pressing farmers to utilize all opportunities to get crops planted at the best date possible to optimize yields. Although soil conditions sometimes allow early planting, soil temperatures are not always warm enough for germination or consistent quick emergence.
Studies have shown that emergence timing, consistency and overall good planting and emergence conditions can be less critical to soybeans than corn. Therefore, planting soybeans into a good seedbed that is colder than you would like should not hurt yields. While we have more to learn about the impact of cold soils on planting of soybeans, you can expect a soybean seed and seedling to be more resilient in cold conditions than previously thought.
Well balanced soil fertility and pH are the most effective means of supplying a soybean plant with nutrients that it needs. It is known that plant root growth and nutrient availability are improved by increased soil temperatures. Therefore, a starter fertilizer application to early planted soybeans has a higher chance of producing a favorable crop response than one applied at a more normal planting date.
The energy source of a plant that has germinated but has not emerged is the seed itself. This seed may initiate the germination process but not emerge through the soil surface for several weeks. During this time, the seed/seedling is susceptible to infection from many seedling diseases and insect pests which may cross its path. Therefore, the use of a seed treatment is advised when planting early.
The opportunity for soil crusting can be increased when there are several weeks between planting and emergence. This is dependent on weather conditions as soil crusting can be increased by rainfall followed by fast soil drying. Under cool conditions, this is not very likely but can still occur, as extreme weather events can happen at any time. Fields with crusting potential may not be good candidates for early planting.
Frost and freezing damage to emerged soybeans are less likely than
presumed but can occur. Typically, temperatures must reach 29-30 degrees Fahrenheit for damage to occur to emerged beans before the first trifoliate leaves emerge. Seedlings just below the soil surface and those with fully emerged cotyledons are pretty tough, while those seedlings in the crook stage can be more susceptible to cold injury.
Pushing your normal soybean relative maturity has the best chance of adding yield when planted early. Michigan State University research has shown that an increase of 0.5 or more maturity group for early planted fields can result in higher yields. This yield effect is not noticed when a more average planting date is used.
If soil conditions give you an opportunity to plant early this spring, be confident in the resilience of soybeans to handle less than optimum conditions. Choose your fields carefully, avoiding soils with crusting issues and those with a history of crop injury from frost. Choose a longer maturity variety with a base seed treatment for early planted fields. Consider a starter fertilizer application under cool conditions. If the conditions of the growing season don’t provide you with a yield increase from earlier planting dates, you may still benefit from avoiding a weather-delayed planting date which can reduce yield potential.
Don’t be afraid. Just believe. Mark 5:36
Two Michigan soybean farmers were among the 19 new farmerleaders appointed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to serve on the United Soybean Board (USB). In addition, 24 farmerleaders were reappointed. Leaders were sworn in for service during the USB December Meeting in St. Charles, Missouri.
The soy checkoff provides significant value to farmers by continuing to fund programs that build preference for U.S. soybeans across the country and throughout the world. Authorized by the Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, the checkoff is composed of 77 members representing 29 states, in addition to the Eastern and Western regions. The number of seats on the board and farmer representation is based on bushels produced in each of the production regions. Members must be soybean farmers nominated by a Qualified State Soybean Board.
Dennis Gardner of Croswell and Carla Schultz of Mayville join Laurie Isley, Michigan's third representative, in serving on behalf of Michigan soybean farmers and their interests at the national level.
Dennis grows soybeans, corn, wheat and sugar beets on his family farm, and also owns a lawn mowing and snow plow business. He served on the Michigan Soybean Committee board for nine years and is on the Croswell-Lexington School Board.
Carla grows soybeans, corn, dry beans, wheat and hay alongside her family. They also raise beef cattle, hogs and chickens. Additionally, Carla sells products from their farm via direct marketing and is a wheat flour sales executive at Star of the West.
“I look forward to the diverse perspectives these farmer-leaders will bring to our board. Together, we will work to create value for U.S. soybean farmers through strategically designed research, education and promotion programs,” said Meagan Kaiser, USB Chair and Missouri farmer.
The Michigan Soybean Committee congratulates Dennis and Carla on their appointments and looks forward to the positive impact their leadership and involvement will have on the Michigan soybean industry.
Dennis and Carla succeed Dave Williams of Elsie and Jim Domagalski of Columbus, who both termed off after serving for nine years. The MSC board and staff appreciate Jim and Dave's leadership and service to the soybean industry!
About United Soybean Board: United Soybean Board’s 77 volunteer farmer-leaders work on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers to achieve maximum value for their soy checkoff investments. These volunteers create value by investing in research, education and promotion with the vision to deliver sustainable soy solutions to every life, every day across the three priority areas of Infrastructure & Connectivity, Health & Nutrition, and Innovation & Technology. As stipulated in the federal Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soy checkoff. For more information on the United Soybean Board, visit unitedsoybean.org
Dennis Gardner Carla Schultz
