Michigan Soybean News Summer 2023

INVESTING IN NEW MARKETS FOR U.S. SOY

From promoting the profitability of using high-quality soybean meal in India to training animal producers on nutrition in Colombia, the soy checkoff is working behind the scenes to develop more market opportunities for U.S. soy. 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

IN THIS

ISSUE OF: MICHIGAN Soybean NEWS Volume 15 - Issue 3

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

Ad Sales Sonja Lapak slapak@michigansoybean.org

J.L. Farmakis Inc. - National Phone: 203.834.8832 bill@jlfarmakis.com

Copyright 2023 by Michigan Soybean Association; all rights reserved.

Magazine Circulation: 19,000 Michigan Soybean News is published quarterly.

Legislative Outreach Farm

Michigan

Disclaimer:

Michigan Soybean Leadership

Michigan Soybean Association

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

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

New ASA/WISHH Committee Members Highlight World Trade Month

In conjunction with World Trade Month this May, the American Soybean Association has announced two new members have been appointed to its World Initiative for Soy in Human Health program committee. Soybean growers Heather Feuerstein of Belding, Michigan, and Daniel Adams of Eddyville, Kentucky, join WISHH in support of its work connecting trade and development through global food security. ASA also confirmed past WISHH Chair Gerry Hayden as an ex-officio member.

“U.S. farmers are true brand ambassadors for WISHH and U.S. soy abroad,” said ASA Chairman Daryl Cates. “Adding two committee members who understand the role WISHH plays in diversifying soybean markets is tremendous. I fully expect Heather and Daniel will join Gerry as invaluable voices for WISHH moving forward.”

Feuerstein is part of a fourth-generation farming family and serves as president of the Michigan Soybean Association. She expressed a desire to work more closely with WISHH after having admired the work of the program while serving as an ASA director.

“U.S. agriculture feeds the world, and WISHH emphasizes that by bridging business and development with global food security,” said Feuerstein, who noted she was in part inspired to join WISHH because other soybean growers in her state have been active supporters. Feuerstein took interest after fellow Michigan farmer Doug Darling, who also serves on the WISHH committee, spoke to Latin American soy food business leaders about the sustainable ways U.S. farmers grow soy.

New appointee Adams is likewise eager to highlight the importance soybean trade plays to the U.S. economy and rural farmers. He and his wife, both of whom graduated from the ASA-Corteva Young Leaders program, quickly realized how trade works to diversify markets.

“I’m a first-generation farmer. I started with nothing,” said Adams. “The first year I put out a crop of soybeans, I got $11 a bushel and then the next year $8.70 a bushel. That experience makes me thankful for a program like WISHH that works to diversify the markets for U.S. soy.”

Adams first heard about WISHH from Hayden. “I didn’t know a lot about WISHH,” he explains. “After going to a few meetings, my eyes were opened to the scope of what the program does. From learning about trainings that teach food safety to hearing about the installation of new technology in places like Ghana and Cambodia, my head is still spinning. It is truly amazing.”

WISHH works in 28 countries, contributing to food and feed projects on three different continents. Both Feuerstein and Adams stress their appreciation of how WISHH’s work fuels U.S. soybean growers’ “eyes wide open” approach to exploring new markets for soy.

Staff Update

If you’re not at the table, you’re serving the meal. I realize that is not the common quote, however, in agriculture it often seems to be the case.

Growing up on my grandparents’ dairy farm, my grandma was fierce and a force to be reckoned with. She would often find ways to fix something, while my grandpa and uncle would still be debating how to fix it. Then she would say, “quit your (expletive) - I fixed it, now let’s get something else done.”

Change is happening in the ag industry. It is no longer the good ol’ boy network it used to be. More and more women are rising to leadership roles and taking over family farms. Women in the industry are making important strategic decisions to continue their family legacies and grow their farms and businesses.

Recently on a trip through Iowa, I saw, for the first time, a barn with a sign that read 'Smith Farms and Daughter'. While seeing 'Smith Farms and Sons' on the side of the barn is common, I was glad to see daughters are also making it onto the side of the barn. It's important to recognize the contributions of hardworking women on the farm who deserve to be on the side of the barn. Throughout history, women have played a critical role on farms. The are often working behind the scenes, often without thanks or pay, to help keep their farms running.

It's also important to recognize the many examples of improvements that have been made. Our industry continues to show positive examples of women in leadership. One example is the American Soybean Association Corteva Agriscience Young Leader program. Historically, it was mostly couples and men who participated in the training. This year during their recognition at Commodity Classic, however, I was excited to see four individual women completing the program. Another great example is the current chair of the United Soybean Board - Meagan Kaiser, a soybean farmer from Missouri.

At the state level, the Michigan Soybean Committee and Michigan Soybean Association have had many amazing women leaders serving on their boards. The most recent past chair of MSC and current chair of MSA are excellent examples of strong female leaders. Their leadership and service has helped to guide our organizations and drive successful projects and programs.

As the ag industry continues to advance, we must encourage our daughters, granddaughters and nieces to be involved in agriculture and also recognize the role women have played in the advancement of the family business over the years. Whether she is working on the farm, off the farm, or oftentimes both, without women in ag we would not be able to move forward. As industry leaders we need to encourage the advancement of women in agriculture by providing access to leadership programs, resources and opportunities for involvement.

As gender roles evolve, perhaps men and women should be equally serving and sitting at the table.

Looking forward to the bright future of ag,

Kathy Maurer, Financial Director kmaurer@michigansoybean.org

MSA Announces 2023 Michigan Soybean Yield Contest

The Michigan Soybean Association (MSA) is excited to announce their 2023 yield contest. In its third year, the contest again saw great participation from around the state and many examples of exceptional yields.

This year’s contest will again offer six categories for participants to enter:

• Late maturity (2.7 and above) non-irrigated

• Late maturity (2.7 and above)irrigated

• Mid-maturity (2.0-2.6) non-irrigated

• Mid-maturity (2.0-2.6) irrigated

• Early maturity (1.9 and below)

• Non-GMO

Farmers interested in entering this year’s contest can learn more about the rules, categories, eligibility and entry information by visiting www.misoy.org/yield-contest . Please note, some rules have been modified as we continue to indentify ways to improve. Entries to the contest will be due in August.

We encourage you to consider entering this year! This contest provides farmers across the state the opportunity to showcase their hard work and high yields and be recognized for these impressive feats. The contest also offers growers the opportunity to see how different varieties measure up when the results are shared. And lastly, you can't beat some friendly competition between neighbors - bragging rights at the coffee shop are pretty sweet!

Thank you to the sponsors of our contest, who are listed below. Without their support, the contest would not be possible.

MSA Hosts Legislative Outreach Farm Tour

The Michigan Soybean Association hosted a Legislative Outreach Farm Tour (LOFT) this spring at Meyer Grain Farms in Milan, MI. MSA's LOFT events serve as a way for MSA members and area farmers to connect with their policy makers and help legislators learn more about the Michigan soybean industry.

At this specific event, MSA welcomed Representative Reggie Miller who was recently named chair of the House Agriculture Committee. The event allowed for great discussion on a wide variety of topics including biodiesel, biobased products, infrastructure, input prices, water and more. There was great conversation and lots of questions that kept attendees engaged and offered learning opportunities for both farmers and the Representative.

The board and staff of MSA would like to thank Meyer Grain Farms for opening their farm and graciously hosting the event. MSA would also like to express their thanks to the Michigan Soybean Committee for sponsoring breakfast.

MSA plans to continue to offer additional ways for MSA members to engage with their legislators. If you are not yet an MSA member, please consider joining today. View the membership application on page 9 or visit misoy.org to learn more.

Rep. Miller learning about planting soybeans with host farmer Mike Meyer and MSA board member Tom Woelmer

NEW MEMBERS:

Jordan Clover, Ionia

Dennis Fitzpatrick, Perrinton

John C Forsythe Jr., Ovid

Matt Geurink, Zeeland

Josh Gulick, Hemlock

Frank Haynes, Perrinton

Gordy Heck, Erie

Joe Hendriksma, Wayland

Amara Jackson, Durand

Mike Jasper, Sawyer

Richard Karnatz, Greenville

Cal Klooster, Byron Center

Mitch Lohman, Hamilton

Dave Moll, Belding

Jonathon Oakes, St. Charles

Bryan Otto, Temperance

Brian Pridgeon, Montgomery

Eugene Rentschler, Lakeview

Rachael Sharp, Allendale

Tim Smith, Yale

Gord VanLaan, Moline

Jeremy Walker, Edwardsburg

Steven Wegener, Auburn

Adam Wolf, Byron Center

Matthew Wolf, Byron Center

Jason Worden, Birch Run

Ryan Zelinko, St. Charles

New & Renewing Members

RENEWING MEMBERS:

Harold Anderson, Fowlerville

Brian Bellville, Prescott

Ned Birkey, Ida

Anthony Bohac, Owosso

James Bolday, Emmett

John Brendel, North Branch

Francis Deutsch, Dundee

Larry Dolegowski, Dorr

Robert Elston, Melvin

John Ferkowicz, Silverwood

Joel and Janna Fritz, Bad Axe

Dennis Gardner, Croswell

Don Girdham, Hillsdale

Duane Hoffman, Marshall

William Hunt, Davison

Jeremy Jones, Owosso

James Kettler, Millington

Francis Keys, Montrose

James Kleinert, Munger

Joe Kwiatkowski, Dorr

Larry LaPointe, Temperance

Brad Lewis, Pinconning

Darrin Lutz, Sebewaing

Frank Marcello, Hemlock

Ken Merryfield, Sunfield

Chris Muto, Columbiaville

Abraham Nemcik, St Johns

Kevin Page, Lyons

Larry Palmreuter, Frankenmuth

Bruce Pline, St Johns

Keith Pohl, Coldwater

Matthew Reibling, Sebewaing

David L. Revels, Monroe

Larry Robinson, Homer

Michael Sahr, Saginaw

Robert Schlicker, Bay City

Philip Selter, Ypsilanti

Darrell Sheats, Milan

Dave Squires, Tecumseh

Larry Starkey, Fairgrove

John H Sulkowski, Goodells

Doug Suwyn, Caledonia

Mike Timmer, Hopkins

Corwin Tischer, Lake Odessa

Rex Ulrich, Sand Creek

Gene Vandriessche, Bay City

Norm Walton & Sons, Imlay City

William White, Hudson

Michael Wildner, Unionville

Pat Zeeb, Bath

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

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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

Join online:

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.!

Michigan Legislative Update

Following a disappointing February where we were forced to postpone our legislative luncheon due to the ice storm that covered most of the lower peninsula, we’ve ramped up our advocacy and education efforts this spring.

In late March, the Michigan Soybean Association (MSA) hosted a Legislative Outreach Farm Tour (LOFT) at Meyer Grain Farms in Milan, MI. We had over 30 farmers attend, and our featured guest was the Michigan House of Representatives Agriculture Committee Chairwoman, Rep. Reggie Miller.

In April, the Michigan Soybean Committee (MSC) hosted a tour at W2 Fuel in Adrian, MI with some of our industry partners and members of the Michigan Legislature. The discussion focused on educating guests on the benefits of biodiesel and how it’s emerging as a key alternative fuel option as the nation moves towards reducing its carbon emissions.

Our lobby efforts in Lansing have also accelerated in recent months as we’re supporting and monitoring key initiates in Lansing.

Biodiesel Tax Incentive for Retailers

MSA’s number one legislative priority for this session has been a fuel tax incentive for retailers and producers of biodiesel in Michigan.

Our advocacy team has been working behind the scenes with lawmakers to educate them on the benefits of a biodiesel tax incentive for the environment, retailers and producers, farmers and Michigan residents.

Our efforts have paid off as many legislators from both sides of the political aisle have indicated support for the legislation. We’re hopeful to have legislation introduced soon to begin the legislative process.

Environmental Sustainability Funding

MSA joined a coalition of agriculture commodity groups this year in advocating for state funding for long term research, outreach and education efforts to enhance an environmentally sustainable future for agriculture in Michigan.

The program will be administered through MSU AgBioResearch and MSU Extension. The ask of the Michigan Legislature is for a $16 million appropriation ($10 million recurring). We are joining this coalition and supporting these efforts for the

following reasons:

• Crop producers are seeking methods to adapt to changing climate realities including the management of crops in extended periods of variable rainfall resulting in drought and flood (sometimes in the same season).

• Long term sustainability of soil productivity is critical to multigenerational farms. Improvement of soil health through the use of cover crops, reduced tillage and understanding soil microbes will benefit from long term research.

• Improved water quality is good for Michigan farmers and the natural environment. The loss of nutrients from cropland is a concern for algal blooms in rivers, lakes and streams. These nutrients are valuable to the crops grown and are expensive to replace using fertilizer and manure.

• Crop pests are changing as average temperatures and total rainfall increase. Diseases, weeds and insects are causing yield losses and farmers look to universities for management recommendations.

The appropriations process within the legislature is in its early stages for Fiscal Year 2023-24 but our feedback has been very positive with key legislators. We’re hopeful to have more news on its progress by the middle of June.

Michigan Clean Fuels Standard

Sen. Sam Singh of East Lansing recently introduced Senate Bill 275 to create a “Clean Energy Future Plan” in Michigan. MSA had the opportunity to participate in meetings with various stakeholders leading up to the introduction of the legislation to

Jason Wadaga

Jason Wadaga, Vice-President of Government Relations, Kindsvatter, Dalling & Associates

provide suggested language and feedback. The goal of the legislation is to:

• Phase out of coal-fired electricity generating plants by 2030, require utilities to make progress toward the elimination of greenhouse gas emissions from power generation by 2035, and develop a 100 percent clean energy standard by 2035.

• Energy Waste Reduction (EWR): Achieve at least two percent annual electric energy efficiency savings.

• Expand the Purview of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC): Allow the MPSC to evaluate climate, health, equity and affordability in the approval of utility Integrated Resource Plans.

• Codify Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s PA 116 Program: Allow farmers to rent land for solar operations while maintaining preservation of farmland enrolled in the PA 116 program.

• Clean Fuels Standard (CFS): Adopt to reduce the carbon intensity of transportation fuels by 25 percent by the end of 2035.

• Repair and Decarbonize Homes and Businesses: Reduce emissions related to heating Michigan homes and businesses by 17 percent by 2030.

We anticipate that public hearings will begin on this legislation in the summer. And while we believe there are still many details to be worked out in the bill, MSA will be at the table to ensure that the legislation allows for the growth of biodiesel in Michigan without negatively impacting farmers and our membership.

Upcoming

Aside from the legislation we will be working on in the coming months, we have two important upcoming education and advocacy days.

MSA is currently scheduled to testify in front of the Michigan House of Representatives Agriculture Committee on June 21 st in Lansing. The discussion will focus on the industry, the association itself and our legislative priorities for this session.

We have rescheduled our legislative luncheon for September 19 th at the State Capitol so MSA can connect with legislators, staff and state department officials.

Michigan Farmer Completes ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program

Members of the 39th class of American Soybean Association (ASA) Corteva Agriscience Young Leaders completed their training March 7-11, 2023, in Orlando, FL in conjunction with the 2023 Commodity Classic convention and trade show.

While in Florida, the Young Leaders participated in training focused on leadership development and industry issue updates and outreach. They had the opportunity to customize their training through sessions at Commodity Classic to find sessions that fit their interests and were relevant to their operations. The Young Leaders were also recognized at ASA’s annual awards banquet.

Michigan's representative was Robert Wasmiller from Burt, MI. Robert farms in Saginaw and Genesee Counties with his family. Together they raise soybeans, corn, sugar beets and wheat.

The full class of this year’s Young Leaders included: Lane Anders (AL); Steve Breeding and Lacey Dixon (DE); Sarah Landers (IL); Alexandra Miller (IA); Andrew and Mary Lauver (IA); Daniel Anderes (KS); Catlin Young and Aaron Vinson (KY); Robert Wasmiller (MI); Gary and Tina Schoenfeld (MN); Skyler and Ashlyn de Regt (MS); Bill Parks (MS); Aaron and Chandra Blasé (NE); Stephanie and Jesse Cook (ND); Dustin and Casey Converse (OH); Austin Heil (OH); Kody and Shelby Leonard (OK); Jena Hanna (SC); Jeff and Emily Kloucek

Will and Robin Hutchison (TN); Jake Steffes (WI); and Daniel Chiappetta (CAN).

The ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leader program was founded in 1984 and continues to set the bar for leadership training in agriculture by identifying and training new, innovative and engaged growers to serve as the voice of the American farmer. Sourcing for the Class of 2024 will begin in June.

ASA thanks Corteva Agriscience for its longstanding commitment to the future of agriculture and the Young Leader Program.

(SD);

Robert Wasmiller accepting a plaque from Matt Rekeweg, U.S. Industry Affairs Leader, Corteva Agriscience; Turner Bridgforth, Federal Government and Industry Affairs Manager, Corteva Agriscience; Katie Jordan, Federal Government Affairs and PAC Manager, Corteva Agriscience and Christine Luelf, Director of Affiliate Relations and Leader Development, ASA

2023 Class of ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program

Make Moves with U.S. Soy

Our founding farmers took action 22 years ago to launch ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health so WISHH could grow new markets for U.S. Soy. Today, WISHH is working with strategic partners that use soy for food or feed in 28 countries across Asia and Latin America to sub-Saharan Africa.

Find out how WISHH’s three pillars of trade, development and food security cultivate new markets for U.S. Soy protein.

Trade. Development. Food Security.

2023 Checkoff Funded Research Projects

The MSC board of directors has approved 23 competitive research projects for 2023. They provide funding to experts who are skilled at conducting meaningful research in Michigan soybean production. Funding decisions follow a strategic plan to allocate funds to the most critical agronomic needs of Michigan soybean growers.

Many projects build upon previous funding and contribute to multi-year efforts, while some are single year projects. All research projects fall within at least one of the following categories, each representing specific areas of soybean production and profitability:

• Resource Limitations: Factors that impact attaining maximum genetic potential

• Plant Health: Issues that compromise and detract from plant health

• Genetics: Inherent genetic potential of soybean plants

• External Factors: Factors that impact soybean profitability, external to plant production

Research projects are intended to work across focus areas and develop integrated solutions to production issues. Research projects addressing these priorities receive preference, though proposals for research projects addressing issues outside of these priorities are considered.

The following are the 2023 funded projects:

Soybean Breeding

SOYBEAN BREEDING AND GENETIC IMPROVEMENT FOR MICHIGAN ENVIRONMENTS

Researcher: Dr. Dechun Wang, Michigan State University

Investment: $118,853

Description: The MSU soybean breeding program will continue to develop varieties with high yield and resistance to critical disease and insect pests. Specialty lines will also be developed with

high protein, large and small seed sizes and high value oil traits. Changing industry directions will be sought and used to provide future focus of the breeding program.

ENHANCE RESEARCH IN SOYBEAN FIELD EVALUATIONS IN MICHIGAN

Researcher: Dr. Dechun Wang, Michigan State University

Investment: $56,112

Description: The management of the multiple locations of the Michigan Soybean Performance Trials and the MSU soybean breeding field operations require the support of two research technicians. This project helps to fund a portion of one research technician.

Soybean Cyst Nematode

EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT MANURES AND THEIR BACTERIA ON SOYBEAN CYST NEMATODE

Researcher: Dr. Marisol Quintanilla, Michigan State University

Investment: $14,921

Description: This project will look into alternative methods to control SCN which have shown some promise in initial observations. Greenhouse and laboratory studies will evaluate the effects of Dairy Doo, Sili-K, layer manure, seed starter 101, Colorado, Worm Doo and a layer ash blend on the mortality of juvenile nematodes and hatching of nematode eggs. Further analysis will include compost organic acid composition and molecular identification of the most promising bacterial isolates.

Nutrient Management

PLANTER APPLIED NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES TO ENHANCE SOYBEAN PRODUCTION

Researcher: Dr. Kurt Steinke, Michigan State University

Investment: $47,000

Description: Nutrient management from planter applied fertilizer will compare three tiers of starter fertilizer intensity. Impacts on yield, profitability, nodulation and atmospheric N fixation will be measured. Past research has shown increased early crop biomass and sometimes increased grain yield but profitability increases have not been consistent. This project seeks to evaluate profitability more closely.

HARNESSING RHIZOSPHERE MICROBIOMES TO IMPROVE NITROGEN USE EFFICIENCY IN SOYBEAN PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

Researcher: Dr. Lisa Tiemann, Michigan State University

Investment: $19,495

Description: Evaluate the interaction of rhizobium and other inoculants with the rest of the soybean rhizosphere microbiome, identify how the microbiome controls N-fixation and evaluate soybean N use efficiency. The potential for improving soil health, increasing soybean yields and protein content will be measured.

Weed Control

OPTIMIZING WEED CONTROL IN NON-GMO SOYBEANS

Researcher: Dr. Christy Sprague, Michigan State University

Investment: $8,500

Description: Evaluate the effectiveness and economics of commercially available non-GMO herbicide

Investing Checkoff Dollars

programs in conventional and no-till soybeans.

INVESTIGATING WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR ULTRA-EARLY PLANTED SOYBEANS - YEAR 2

Researcher: Dr. Christy Sprague, Michigan State University

Investment: $29,000

Description: Determine the adjustments needed when planting early including the timing of weed emergence, canopy closure timing, evaluating soybean injury and length of residual weed control.

CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR WATERHEMP MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES IN SOYBEAN

Researcher: Dr. Christy Sprague, Michigan State University

Investment: $23,000

Description: Evaluate herbicide effectiveness including the genetic traits of Enlist E3, XtendFlex and LibertyLink on herbicide resistant waterhemp. Further evaluate soil applied herbicides alone and in premixtures.

Disease Control

IMPROVING SPORECASTER, OPTIMIZING FUNGICIDES, SCREENING FOR PLANT RESISTANCE AND REMOTE SENSING RESEARCH

Researcher: Dr. Martin Chilvers, Michigan State University

Investment: $50,000

Description: This project includes basic research in understanding the spore release and plant infection timing to help choose optimum chemical application timing. Fungicide comparison and other controls such as no-tillage, atrazine, metribuzin and Contans will also be included. Analysis of historical and current remote sensing data to determine remote technology applications will also be conducted.

Your Soybean Checkoff

RISK PREDICTION, SCREENING VARIETIES AND SEED TREATMENTS FOR SDS

AND SCN MANAGEMENT

Researcher: Dr. Martin Chilvers, Michigan State University

Investment: $25,000

Description: Validation of diagnostic assay of soil to predict risk of SDS. Seed treatments will be evaluated for their control of SDS and its symptoms as well as SCN populations. Genetic resistance to SDS will be evaluated in many soybean lines in development. Fungicide sensitivity will be monitored with a focus on resistance to the active ingredients in Saltro and ILeVO.

FUNGICIDE APPLICATION TECHNIQUES FOR PRECISION SOYBEAN MANAGEMENT

Researcher: Dr. Martin Chilvers, Michigan State University

Investment: $20,000

Description: Investigation of new fungicide application technologies and products (flutriafol) including planter applied and in-season soil applied. Frogeye Leafspot and Septoria brown spot will be studied for resistance concerns.

IMPROVING WHITE MOLD MANAGEMENT WITH VARIABLE RATE PLANTING AND POPULATION MANAGEMENT IN SOYBEANS

Researcher: Missy Bauer, B&M Crop Consulting, Inc.

Investment: $15,900

Description: Evaluation of white mold control with ultra-low variable rate planting compared to normal variable rate, straight rate ultra-low, straight rate normal and normal variable rate with a foliar fungicide.

Agronomic Management

STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE SOYBEAN YIELD AND PROFITS UNDER EARLY PLANTING

Researcher: Dr. Manni Singh, Michigan State University

Investment: $34,346

Description: Evaluate management strategies

that can lead to increased yield and decreased input costs while minimizing production risks at multiple planting dates. Priming methods and performance of soybean seed will be evaluated.

2023 MSU EXTENSION ON-FARM RESEARCH AND EDUCATION PROJECTS

Researcher: Mike Staton, Michigan State University Extension

Investment: $26,898

Description: The collaboration of MSU Extension educators and staff will conduct practical on-farm research and demonstrations including a harvest equipment field day, northern lower and western upper peninsula variety performance trials, deer repellent, potash management and vole management in soybeans.

CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE RELOADED AGAIN

Researcher: Tom VanWagner, Lenawee Conservation District

Investment: $10,500

Description: The continued coordination of on-farm research and demonstrations of critical conservation practices such as tillage types and nutrient management. Additional efforts will be placed on nutrient loss reduction tools such as a P remediation in fields with soil test levels above 10 ppm. Educational events and printed materials will be developed to share the results of this work.

IMPROVING ULTRA-EARLY SOYBEAN PLANTING WITH TILLAGE AND VRA POPULATION MANAGEMENT

Researcher: Missy Bauer, B&M Crop Consulting, Inc.

Investment: $15,750

Description: Early planting is increasing as a practice to increase yields or avoid late planting. Stand establishment can be a challenge which may be impacted by tillage and seeding rates. This project will evaluate the use of vertical tillage compared to no tillage and multiple variable rate seeding rates.

SOYBEAN PLANTER COMPARISON

Researcher: Missy Bauer, B&M Crop Consulting, Inc.

Investment: $11,900

Description: Soybean planting accuracy may become more important as seeding rates are reduced. As most growers have reduced seeding rates, the accuracy of planting may be a yield factor. This project will compare a precise variable

rate seeding to a standard rate with less planting accuracy.

COMPARISON OF FIVE TILLAGE PROGRAMS ON GROWTH FACTORS, YIELD AND ECONOMICS OF SOYBEANS IN MICHIGAN IN 2023

Researcher: Santanu Thapa, North Central Research Station

Investment: $25,000

Description: Tillage practices for soybean production have changed over time with little non-biased data to help growers choose a practice that best fits their system. This project will compare five tillage systems in a soybean and corn rotation at two sites. Tillage treatments will include no till, rotational tillage, vertical till, strip till and conventional tillage.

EVALUATION OF COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE BIOLOGICAL SEED TREATMENTS IN MICHIGAN SOYBEAN PRODUCTION

Researcher: Dr. Manni Singh, Michigan State University

Investment: $19,920

Description: This project seeks to identify situations where biological seed treatments improve grain yield and profitability and evaluate impacts of biological seed treatments on soybean nutrient status and protection from insect pests. This project is part of a 19 state experiment under approximately 120 total environments. Nine commercially available biological seed treatments will be evaluated.

Investing Checkoff Dollars

includes collaboration with Drs. Marty Chilvers and Kurt Steinke to determine interactions of irrigation with disease and nutrient management.

USE OF REPELLENTS TO MINIMIZE DEER FEEDING ON SOYBEANS

Researcher: Tim Duckert, North Central Research Station

Investment: $12,190

Description: Measure the effects of whitetail deer repellent products on the feeding and yield of soybeans. Foliar applications of Plantskydd, Bobbex Deer Repellent, Deer Stopper and Miller Hot Sauce will be compared to a two strand electric fence to eliminate feeding and a check that will allow open feeding. Comparisons between treatments will include monitoring of deer feeding by camera, measurements of crop canopy and grain yield.

STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE SOYBEAN YIELD AND QUALITY BY OPTIMIZING HARVEST DECISIONS

Researcher: Dr. Manni Singh, Michigan State University

Investment: $29,000

Description: Excessive rainfall in the fall can cause harvest delays leading to losses in soybean yield and potentially seed quality and composition. This project will quantify the effects of harvest timing on soybean yield and quality across multiple maturities for early planted soybean and evaluate the impact of desiccant selection and timing on soybean harvest time, yield, and quality.

INFLUENCE OF BIOSTIMULANT APPLICATION ON SOYBEAN MICROBIOME AND RESILIENCE OF PRODUCTS DURING DROUGHT

Researcher: Dr. Sarah Werner, Michigan State University

INVESTIGATE THE IMPACT OF IRRIGATION TIMING ON WATER AND DISEASE MANAGEMENT IN SOYBEAN PRODUCTION

Researcher: Dr. Younsuk Dong, Michigan State University

Investment: $15,000

Description: Investigate how irrigation timing (time of day or night) affects irrigation water and energy use efficiency, plant disease potential and soybean yield. This project

Investment: $25,000

Description: Many biological products are being marketed to soybean growers. This project will evaluate nodule formation, seedling development, and drought resilience caused by three biostimulant products. Measurements will include plant performance and impact on microbiome.

Careful Weed Control Choices are Critical to Avoid Additional Resistance Issues

Dr. Chisty L. Sprague, Michigan State University Professor and Weed Extension Specialist

Glyphosate- and multiple-herbicide resistant weeds have made the days of uncomplicated soybean weed control a distant memory. No longer can soybean farmers expect perfect weed control with one or two applications of glyphosate in Roundup Ready soybeans. Successful weed management strategies now need to include at least two herbicide applications with multiple sites of action. This can be more complicated in non-GMO and Roundup Ready soybeans due to limited effective herbicide options to manage herbicideresistant weeds. Planting soybean varieties with newer herbicide resistant traits (i.e., Enlist E3 and XtendFlex) provides farmers with additional herbicide options. However, without proper stewardship, additional herbicide-resistance issues can evolve, and we could lose the usefulness of these products. In fact, some states have reported Palmer amaranth and waterhemp populations that are resistant to 2,4-D and/or dicamba. Often these resistance issues appear in weed populations that are already resistant to multiple other herbicides. More recently, two Palmer amaranth populations have been reported resistant to Liberty (glufosinate) in Arkansas and North Carolina. This is extremely troubling since 2,4-D, dicamba, and Liberty are the three herbicides that have helped us manage many of the glyphosate- and multiple-resistant weeds that we have been battling in Michigan. Below are several tips that can be used to slow the development of additional herbicide resistances and help preserve the ever-dwindling herbicide options in soybean.

Multiple Herbicide Sites of Action

Repeated use of the same herbicide or herbicides with the same site of action can increase the

selection pressure for herbicide-resistant weeds. One way to break this cycle is to create weed management programs that use herbicides with multiple different sites of action. The key to adequate control is to make sure we are using at least two herbicide sites of action that are effective on the particular target weed. The more herbicide sites of action used in a particular weed management program increases, so do the chances for effective weed control. For example, many waterhemp populations in Michigan are resistant to glyphosate (Group 9) and the ALS-inhibiting (Group 2) herbicides. To effectively manage these populations, a soil-applied herbicide containing an effective Group 14 and/or Group 15 herbicide followed by a postemergence application of glufosinate (Group 10) and/or Enlist One (2,4-D) (Group 4) in an Enlist soybean system would provide up to four different effective herbicide sites of action. For more information about herbicide sites of action, consult the 2023 MSU Weed Control Guide for Field Crops ( https://www.canr.msu.edu/ weeds/2023-weed-control-guide ), or the color-coded Take Action Herbicide Classification Chart found at www.IWillTakeAction.com (pictured at right).

Overlapping Residual Herbicides

In addition to herbicide-resistance issues, many of the weed species that are more difficult to control emerge over several months of the growing season. For example, waterhemp and Palmer amaranth can emerge well into July, past the time when postemergence herbicide applications are an option. One way to improve the management of these species, and some other small-seeded weeds, is to include a residual herbicide in with the postemergence herbicide application.

In soybeans, the Group 15 herbicides of Dual II Magnum, Warrant, Outlook or Zidua are the most common options. Including one of these Group 15 herbicides with an effective postemergence herbicide provides control of weeds that have not emerged yet. The overlapping residual herbicide concept can be extremely helpful for weed control in earlier-planted soybeans.

Labeled Herbicide Rates and Weed Sizes

To help preserve our current herbicide options, it is extremely important to use the maximum labeled herbicide rate for the soil type for soil-applied (PRE) herbicides or the weed heights for postemergence herbicides. Cutting or reducing herbicide rates increases the chances for the development of herbicide-resistant weeds, particularly due to metabolic resistance. Weeds that survive these lower herbicide rates produce offspring that can have higher levels of resistance. In many cases, metabolic resistance confers resistance to several herbicide sites of action. For example, metabolic resistance was found in a six-way resistant Kansas Palmer amaranth population. This population survived recommended field rates of ALS-inhibitors, 2,4-D, atrazine, glyphosate, PPO-inhibitors, and HPPDinhibitors (Groups 2, 4, 5, 9, 14, and 27).

Cultural Practices

Implementing cultural practices can help reduce the selection pressure of different herbicides on certain weeds. These cultural practices include crop rotation, tillage, narrowing soybean row widths and integrating cover crops into weed management systems. Including winter wheat or forages into a crop rotation changes opportunities for emergence of different weed species. For example, summer annual weeds generally are not as much of a problem in winter wheat or forages, especially if the wheat or forage stands are competitive. In fields where small-seeded weeds have been an issue, tillage has been shown to reduce emergence of some of these species. For example, horseweed (marestail) seed needs to be on the soil surface or less than 0.25-inch deep to germinate and tillage operations that bury this seed will reduce these populations. Planting soybeans in narrow rows can also reduce

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emergence of weeds that germinate later in the season. However, remember it is still important to start out with good early weed control. Late summer or fall-seeded cover crops have also been shown to be beneficial to reduce early-season weed growth. In MSU research, planting green into a cereal rye cover crop suppressed horseweed similar to a soil-applied herbicide until the time of a postemergence herbicide (4 to 6 weeks after planting). Implementing one or more of these cultural practices can reduce the selection pressure of certain herbicides.

Scout for Weed Escapes

One of the most important things that can be done to help preserve the effectiveness of our current herbicides is to scout for weeds that have escaped herbicide applications. When weed escapes are found, it is important to consider all the possible reasons why these weeds were not controlled. Was there too little or too much rain for the soil-applied herbicide to work? Was there good spray coverage? Did the weeds emerge after the postemergence herbicide was applied? Were the weeds too large? If none of these questions explain the weed escape, consider if this could be a herbicide-resistant weed. If possible, try to manage this escape or put strategies in place not to spread seed to other fields. Also, consider getting the weed screened for resistance. MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics has a screening program that can test for herbicide resistance. For more information on herbicide resistant weed screening visit www.canr.msu.edu/psetid/submit-samples/ herbicid-resistant-weeds-in-Michigan .

Seeking Nominees for Appointment to MSC Board of Directors

The Michigan Soybean Committee board is comprised of seven farmer-leaders who are appointed by the Governor to serve up to three three-year terms. MSC board members are tasked with managing checkoff resources to increase return on investment for Michigan soybean farmers while enhancing sustainable soybean production. They oversee MSC projects in the program areas of production research, market development and outreach to both consumers and farmers and are guided by the current strategic plan shown below.

Two districts are up for appointment this fall. Each district up for appointment must submit at least two names for consideration.

The districts seeking applicants in 2023 include District 1, which is comprised of Berrien, Branch, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph and Van Buren Counties, and District 3 which includes Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, Washtenaw and Wayne Counties.

District 1 is currently represented by Dan Rajzer of Decatur, who is completing his first term on the board. District 3 is currently served by Laurie Isley, who is terming off after serving for nine years.

Soybean farmers residing in these districts who would like to learn more about serving on the board can contact MSC CEO Ben Steyer at 989.652.3294 or email bsteyer@michigansoybean.org to learn more about what the position involves and what steps are needed to complete the application process. Those interested in applying should contact the Michigan Soybean Committee office by June 14, 2023 to ensure adequate time to complete the application materials. The new term starts at the end of September with the first meeting being held in December.

Make Moves with U.S. Soy

WISHH connects Trade, Development & Food Security in Cambodia where fish account for 61% of households' animal protein intake. We cultivate trade with Cambodian feed mills that are buying U.S. soybean meal for the growing aquaculture industry that WISHH is developing. Our trade and development work makes protein more available in the country where 45% of Cambodians live in moderate or severe food insecurity.

Find out how WISHH’s three pillars of trade, development and food security cultivate new markets for U.S. Soy protein.

Trade. Development. Food Security.

Connecting With Consumers at The Henry Ford Museum

The Michigan Soybean Committee is excited to partner with The Henry Ford Museum again this year! The second year of this multi- faceted partnership offers MSC the opportunity to engage with museum goers, share accurate information about soybeans and agriculture and engage with target audiences such as students and educators through a variety of different projects and programs.

One project includes working with museum staff and the curator of the Agriculture and the Environment exhibit to add more soybean-specific information to the museum floor. MSC QR codes have been installed near certain displays. These QR codes direct museum goers to articles and YouTube videos about soybean production in Michigan. Modern agriculture additions to the museum floor are also in the works.

Another project MSC sponsors is Invention Convention Michigan. The state finals were held at The Henry Ford Museum at the end of April. MSC sponsors the Food & Agriculture Award Category. The winning invention in that category this year was a project by Alyssa Davis called the Super Soaker Sprinkler. This invention was designed to help gardeners maintain adequate soil moisture levels around their plants and trees. Alyssa is a fifth grade student at Farmington STEAM Academy in Farmington Hills, MI. Her invention includes soaker hoses, a sprinkler base, timer, garden hose and a high-flow faucet adapter. The device targets water to desired areas to reduce waste and keep plants watered consistently.

During Invention Convention, staff also had a booth with information about soybeans and parts of a seed under a microscope. Attendees were also able to plant a soybean seed to take home and grow.

In addition to work with the museum curator and sponsorship of Invention Convention, MSC is also sponsoring a series of summer camps for students at Greenfield Village focused on growing plants and learning more about farming and healthy food.

Lastly, MSC is partnering to contribute scientific information about soybeans to articles and blog posts and contributing to digital content which is shared across their vast social and digital platforms. This allows soybean information to be amplified through their channels and increases MSC's exposure with key audiences. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting partnership as we work through more of the projects!

MSC staff Katlin Fusilier and Sonja Lapak with Food & Agriculture award winner Alyssa Davis

YOUR CHECKOFF in action

FY22 RECAP OF MICHIGAN SOYBEAN COMMITTEE PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS

Guided by the four pillars of their strategic plan, which is summarized below, the board and staff of the Michigan Soybean Committee continue to work on behalf of Michigan's 12,000+ soybean farmers to grow demand for Michigan-grown soybeans, invest in research to address the most timely agronomic issues and share information about soybeans, agriculture and the work of the checkoff with both farmer and consumer audiences.

In the production program area, funded research projects continue to identify solutions and ways for farmers to address agronomic issues and grow more soybeans. The on-farm research program also continues to host trials that address timely topics farmers have deemed most critical.

In the area of market development, staff and farmers work to build new markets for soybeans through the development of biobased products, push for increased demand of biodiesel and renewable diesel, engage with international markets to build a preference for U.S. soy and work to maintain soy's critical role as a high-quality protein source for livestock.

Farmer education and outreach also continues to be a priority. Connecting with farmers across Michigan to share not only what the checkoff is doing on their behalf, but also connecting them with resources that can benefit them and their farming operations is paramount to our organization's success. Farmer-facing events also provide valuable feedback which is used to guide future programming.

And lastly, consumer outreach and education. This program area continues to develop new ways to connect with key audiences to help build trust in agriculture and our food supply, dispel common misconceptions surrounding soy and share ways that soybeans touch every life, every day.

These pillars guide the work of our organization and ensure Michigan soybean farmers' investments in the checkoff are used in ways that provide value back to them all year long.

Production Research

Invest in production research that benefits Michigan soybean producers.

Objectives:

• Michigan State University field crop researchers are willing and able to conduct soybean research.

• Independent agriculture research entities and partners are willing and able to conduct soybean research.

• Michigan soybean farmers host innovative on-farm research trials.

Success:

• Michigan soybean producers incorporate MSC-funded research recommendations on their farms.

Producer Education Create Demand Consumer Education

Grow potential market and product opportunities for Michigan soy.

Objectives:

• Industry is aware soybean oil can replace other plant and fossil oils in industrial use applications.

• Pork and poultry industries expand use of Michigan soybeans in their rations.

• Michigan specialty soybean contracted acres increase.

• Biodiesel is accepted among diesel users as a tactic for reaching corporate sustainability objectives.

• International aquaculture increases the use of U.S. soy in their feed rations.

Success:

• Demand for Michigan soy grows in new and existing markets.

Provide Michigan farmers with resources for making well-informed decisions.

Objectives:

• Michigan soybean farmers seek resources from the checkoff to help manage risk and improve profits.

• Michigan agriculture organizations work together to ensure the long-term success of farming in Michigan.

• Michigan soybean farmers serve in industry leadership positions.

Success:

• Michigan farmers look to the Michigan Soybean Committee for soybean resources.

Create a positive public perception of Michigan agriculture.

Objectives:

• Legislators/ Regulators use sound science to make realistic agriculture policy and regulatory decisions.

• Michigan consumers trust soy and soybean producers.

• Students form a positive perception of soybeans and soybean farming in Michigan.

Success:

• Consumers understand the importance of agriculture and the soybean industry’s work in Michigan.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

October 1, 2021 - September 30, 2022

Revenues Collected: Assessments from First Purchasers:

Less: 50% Transfer to USB State of Origin Transfers

MSU Extension Soybean Educator Honored with Distinguished Academic Staff Award

Mike Staton serves as the statewide soybean educator through a role that is jointly funded by the Michigan Soybean Committee and Michigan State University Extension. In this role, Mike works tirelessly with soybean growers across Michigan to provide current, research-based and audiencefocused programming to Michigan field crops farmers. Mike has strengthened collaborations among producers, the Michigan Soybean Committee, MSU and MSU Extension.

On-farm research is a cornerstone of Mike's soybean work. As research coordinator for the MSU On-Farm Soybean Research Trial Program, Mike is credited with developing improved protocols for conducting on-farm research projects and has led over 550 replicated trials on 100 Michigan farms that are designed in response to an annual needs assessment of Michigan soybean producers. Mike analyzes and publishes the Michigan On-Farm Soybean Research Report, an unbiased look at the year's trial results. Mike's work has demonstrated an increase in profitability for growers and improvements to their agronomic management practices.

Mike communicates with producers through many MSU Extension News articles, a variety of MSU Extension bulletins and fact sheets, articles in peer-reviewed journals and in the Michigan Soybean News magazine. Mike also presents at educational meetings, field days, and statewide, national and international conferences.

The MSU Distinguished Academic Staff Award awards are given to academic specialists and MSU Extension academic staff for extraordinary achievements, excellence and exceptional contributions in advising, curriculum development, outreach, extension, research and/or teaching. Mike's commitment to excellence and dedication to Michigan's soybean industry make him exceedingly deserving of this prestigious award. MSC congratulates Mike on this outstanding achievement!

MSC staff and Mike Staton at the MSU Distinguished Academic Staff Award reception

Michigan Legislators Visit Local Biodiesel

Manufacturer and End Users

On April 14th a group of Michigan legislators had the opportunity to learn more about biodiesel by meeting with industry experts at W2 Fuel and Evergreen Grease, both located in Adrian, MI. Attendees included Representative Jerry Neyer, Representative Andrew Fink and a staff member from Representative Carrie Rheingans’ office.

The day began with a tour of W2 Fuel - a biodiesel plant with the capacity to produce 15 million gallons of biodiesel each year. Representatives heard from Roy Strom, President and CEO of W2 Fuel, about how biodiesel supports Michigan’s economy through revenue and job opportunities and benefits the environment by reducing harmful emissions.

Additionally, legislators were shown the results of an important study by Trinity Consultants that demonstrated switching to B20 would bring $53 million, while B100 would bring $267 million, in potential annual health benefits to Detroit residents – including less respiratory disease and fewer lost workdays.

After touring the biodiesel plant, the legislators were able to speak with representatives from Evergreen Grease, a used cooking oil and grease recycling company. After collecting used cooking oil grease and waste fats from the commercial cooking and restaurant industry, Evergreen is able to process those waste products into a product that can then be turned into biodiesel.

Evergreen has also installed The Vector System, a new engine system created by Optimus Technologies that allows them to run B100, in three of their fleet vehicles with plans to convert their entire fleet. Attendees were able to see this new technology in action and learn how using B100 can cut carbon emissions by up to 86 percent.

The Michigan Soybean Association would like to thank W2 Fuel and Evergreen Grease for hosting this great event and thank Representatives Neyer and Fink and Representative Rheingan's staff for attending and learning more about the positive impact the biodiesel industry is having on the environment and the economy.

Managing Thin Soybean Stands

Mike Staton, MSU Extension Soybean Educator

Thin soybean stands can occur for a variety of reasons such as disease and insect damage, dry soil, a poor seedbed, or planting equipment failures or maladjustments. Producers need to know if remedial action is warranted and what specific action steps to take.

The most important step is to detect emergence problems and identify potentially thin stands as early as possible. The next step is to identify what caused the poor emergence. This is important as it determines if the problem needs to be addressed and what needs to be done. Uneven or slow emergence due to variable planting depth, crusting or dry soil may not require any action if rain is forecast. However, if rain is not predicted, rotary hoeing may be required to break up a soil crust. If poor stands occur even though adequate soil moisture has been available and soil temperatures are above 50°F, dig up seed and look for signs of normal germination (swollen seed and root or shoot growth). Also, look for diseased tissue or signs of insect feeding.

Estimating your existing and potential stand is the next step. There are two accepted ways for estimating stands - counting plants in a defined area such as a hula hoop and counting plants in a length of row equal to 1/1000 of an acre. Both work well, but I prefer the 1/1000 of an acre method for wider row widths.

Table 1. Length of Row Required to Equal 1/1,000 of an Acre

To use the information in Table 1 to estimate the number of soybean plants per acre in 30-inch rows, count the number of plants in 17 feet 5 inches of row at 10 random locations in the field. Then, simply multiply the average count for the 10 locations by 1,000 to get plants per acre. For example, if the average count in the sampled rows was 108, the population would be 108,000 emerged plants per acre.

To use the hula hoop method, toss the hoop in 10 random

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Table 2. Converting Hula Hoop Plant Counts to Plants per Acre Inside Diameter of Hula Hoop

Conversion Factor (multiply the number of plants within the hoop by the appropriate factor to calculate plants per acre)

locations in the field and record the number of emerged plants within the hoop at each location. Calculate the average and multiply it by the conversion factor corresponding to the diameter of the hoop you are using (larger diameter hoops are recommended). For example, if the diameter of the hoop is 36 inches and the average number of emerged plants is 16, then 105,856 plants per acre have emerged (16 x 6,616). If the diameter of your hula hoop isn’t listed in Table 2, you can calculate the conversion factor with the following equation:

Conversion Factor = 43,560 ÷ [3.14 x (the inside hoop diameter in inches ÷ 2)2 ÷144]

Data collected from 66 on-farm soybean planting rate trials shows that final stands of 65,000 plants per acre can produce surprisingly high soybean yields. If you count more than 65,000 plants per acre and

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the stand is relatively uniform, the field has the potential to produce high yields. If your emergence counts are lower than 65,000 plants per acre, you should determine the cause of the problem so that you can make informed and timely management decisions.

There are three possible options for dealing with thin soybean stands – leave the existing stand alone, keep the existing stand and fill-in with additional seed, or till the field and start over.

Leaving the existing stand alone and managing it is the best choice if you have at least 65,000 emerged plants per acre. This is because soybean plants have a large capacity to branch out and produce more pods per plant when given space. However, additional time and effort may be required to control weeds in thin soybean stands. This is especially true early in the season before the plants are large enough to shade the soil. The use of effective residual herbicide mixtures having two sites of action and applying effective postemergence herbicides when weeds are small are essential practices.

Keeping the existing stand and filling in with additional seed is usually a good choice when stands are below 65,000 plants per acre. Planters set up for wide rows are preferred over drills as one of the keys to success is reducing damage to the existing seedlings. Whenever possible, use the same variety or at least a variety from the same maturity group and add enough seed to arrive at a final stand of around 100,000 plants per acre. Producers that use this method need to watch the fields closely at harvest time. Situations have occurred where the plants from the first planting date matured significantly earlier that those from the second planting date and the pods opened up prior to harvest leading to large harvest losses.

Tilling up thin stands and completely replanting the field is rarely recommended. The main reasons for this are the later planting date reduces yield potential and additional costs are incurred.

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Demand for Biomass-based Diesel Fuels Presents a Growing Opportunity

Bailey Arnold for Michigan Advanced Biofuels Coalition

The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) movement has taken the corporate world by storm in recent years as government regulations and an increasing percentage of consumers demand action to address climate change and global inequity. In response, many companies have made public commitments to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and set detailed plans to achieve them, often establishing short- and long-term goals. To address these goals, a growing list of companies, and in some cases, entire industries, have begun turning to biomassbased diesel (BBD) fuels like biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel for their ability to significantly reduce GHG emissions with little or no modifications.

While increasing demand for biodiesel (BD), renewable diesel (RD), and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) presents an opportunity for significant industry growth and innovation, it has also created many questions around the differences and similarities between the fuels and the respective markets they serve. These questions are undoubtedly a good thing for the industry, because it means the fuels are growing in market share and popularity.

The Michigan Advanced Biofuels Coalition, a coalition of stakeholders that promotes the use of advanced biofuels, in collaboration with the Michigan Soybean Committee, United Soybean Board and Clean Fuels Alliance America, are all working to answer questions and clear up any confusion surrounding the growing number of sustainable diesel fuel options available today.

In land, sea and rail operations, BD and RD help to displace the use of carbon intensive fuels such as ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel (ULSD), the standard for highway diesel fuel in the United States since 2010. In 2021 alone, biodiesel and renewable diesel displaced 3.1 billion gallons of petroleum-based diesel fuel in the United States. By 2030, the industry is expected to displace as much as 6 billion gallons, or approximately 10 percent of the distillate fuel market in the United States.

Similarly, the introduction of sustainable aviation

fuel helps to displace the use of petroleum jet fuel like Jet A, the primary jet fuel used in the United States. Production of sustainable aviation fuel is expected to grow from a few million gallons in 2021 to as much as three billion gallons annually by 2030 – approximately 15 percent of the aviation fuel market in the United States.

Today, around 90 percent of the fuel used to power planes, trains, automobiles and ships in the United States is petroleum based. Transitioning from petroleum-based fuels to BBD fuels has been shown to significantly reduce harmful air pollutants and carbon emissions. While the latter lessens the U.S. transportation sector's impact on climate and the environment, the former improves air quality and helps to protect human health. A recent study by Trinity Consultants showed that a simple switch to cleaner fuels like biodiesel would provide immense health benefits to local communities.

The low-carbon feedstocks used to produce renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel and biodiesel have historically been the same, comprised largely of soybean oil, distillers corn oil (a by-product of ethanol production), used cooking oil, canola oil and animal fats. However, new and advancing technologies are creating opportunities for the industry to begin producing BD, RD and SAF from new feedstocks, like camelina and algal oils. Because of their unique production pathways, there is also growing opportunity to produce RD and SAF from waste products like municipal solid waste and agricultural residues.

While biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel are produced for use in diesel engines, they are distinct fuels with differences from production to storage and handling to end-use. The quality standards and specifications for each fuel or fuel blend also differ greatly.

Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a biodegradable and non-toxic advanced biofuel produced domestically from a diverse pool of renewable oils and fats. The finished fuel is produced through a process known as transesterification which

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gasoline), renewable propane (RLPG) and sustainable aviation fuel. These byproducts can be fed back into the system during the production process or sold on the market. In most cases, like BD and RD, the byproducts qualify for Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs), a credit generated for every gallon of renewable fuel produced under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The products are also incredibly valuable under programs like California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS).

Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Sustainable aviation fuel is an umbrella term that refers to aviation fuels that are derived from renewable feedstocks through one of seven approved pathways. SAF is intended for use in existing aviation equipment. In its pure form, SAF meets ASTM D7566. Upon blending with petroleum jet fuel, SAF is certified to ASTM D1655 and regarded as conventional Jet A or Jet A1 kerosene.

SAF is a key decarbonization strategy for all the United States’ major airlines, including United, Delta, American, Southwest and more. Seen as a drop-in replacement for petroleum jet fuel, SAF provides upwards of an 80 percent reduction in carbon emissions when compared to petroleum jet fuels. However, SAF is currently limited to a maximum blend of 50 percent SAF and 50 percent petroleum jet fuel due to SAF’s naturally low levels of aromatics, a requirement for efficient operation in most aviation engines.

SAF production is expected to grow to three billion gallons by 2030 and as much as 50 billion gallons by 2050 under an ambitious plan set forth under the U.S. Department of Energy’s SAF Grand Challenge. If the projected growth continues and innovative production processes become reality, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) estimates that SAF could contribute up to 65 percent of the reduction in emissions needed for the aviation industry to reach net-zero emissions in 2050.

Crush the Competition

In the U.S., the shift toward decarbonization, coupled with corporate ESG commitments and a vast array of new government incentives, is furthering the demand for low-carbon fuels like biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel. On top of expanding domestic BBD fuel production, the movement is sparking investments in new feedstocks and expanded oilseed crush capacity to supplement current supplies. These advancements, coupled with carbon sequestration practices on the farm, are leading a sustainable revolution that is certain to benefit U.S. farmers by providing a robust and growing market for their products. The Michigan Soybean Committee and Michigan Advanced Biofuels Coalition are invested in staying engaged in this industry and driving demand for Michigan-grown soybeans.

REMEMBER, HE CREATED YOU FOR THIS.

Don’t be afraid. Just believe. Mark 5:36