Soybean Business January-February 2026

SOYBEAN THE MAGAZINE FOR MINNESOTA’S SOYBEAN GROWERS

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2026 - VOLUME XXIV - ISSUE 1

B U S I N E S S

MINNESOTA SOYBEAN 1020 INNOVATION LANE, MANKATO, MN MINNESOTA SOYBEAN 1020 INNOVATION LANE, MANKATO, MN 56001

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JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - 3

CONTENTS

12

TABLE OF

08

08 Laying the Foundation

18

20

MSGA growing for the long term in 2026 legislative session

12 ‘A friend of agriculture’

MSGA honors Melissa Hortman’s legacy of pragmatism, collaboration

18 By George!

Redwood County farmer terms off ASA, retires from MSGA to focus on checkoff promotion

20 A Minnesota-first mindset

MSGA promotes MN agriculture during a post-harvest EU trade mission

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MISSION

STATEMENT

Tell the compelling stories behind Minnesota’s soybean farmers and their industry, from the field to Capitol Hill to international markets – and everywhere in between.

Minnesota Soybean Growers Association Officers and ASA Directors

EDITORIAL STAFF

OFFICERS

County directors Cont.

Joe Smentek | jsmentek@mnsoybean.com

President Darin Johnson | Faribault County

Keith Nelsen | Cottonwood County

Managing Editor

Vice President Ryan Mackenthun | McLeod County

Dusty Neugebauer | Nobles County

Ag Management Solutions

Lucas Peters | Rock County

Treasurer Rose Wendinger-Karau | Watonwan County

Vernon Pooch | Pope County

Art Director

Secretary Kyle Jore | Pennington-Red Lake Counties

Matt Purfeerst | Dakota-Rice Counties

Drew Lyon | drew@mnsoybean.com

Robert Nelsen | Murray County

Alex Troska | atroska@agmgmtsolutions.com

Andy Pulk | Roseau-LOW Counties Tim Rasmussen | Otter Tail-Grant Counties Justin Remus | Brown County

ASA Directors

MSGA Executive Director

Graphic Designer Ag Management Solutions Layout Editor Katelyn Engquist | kengquist@agmgmtsolutions.com

Parker Revier | Renville County Gary Schoenfeld | Waseca County

Jamie Beyer | Traverse County

Joel Schreurs | Lincoln County

Adam Guetter | Redwood County

Mike Skaug | Polk County

Darin Johnson | Faribault County

Cal Spronk | Pipestone County

Jim Kukowski | Roseau-LOW Counties

Jamie Seitzer | Nicollet-Sibley Counties

Sales Manager

Jeff Sorenson | Redwood County

Lawrence Sukalski | Martin County

Erin Rossow | erossow@agmgmtsolutions.com

Bob Worth | Lincoln County

Jeremy Tischer | Clay-Wilkin Counties

507-902-9191

ADVERTISING

Doug Toreen | Renville County

ASA Young Leaders

Tim Wolf | Dodge County

Advertising space reservations can be made by the 15th day of the month prior to publication. In consideration of

Andrew Mages | Clay-Wilkin Counties

the acceptance of the advertisement, the agency and the advertiser must, in respect of the contents of the advertisement, indemnify and save the publisher harmless

County directors Trevore Brekken | Polk County Mark Brown | Watonwan County Steve Brusven | Yellow Medicine County Jason Cadieux | Kittson County Raymond DeMars | Morrison County Brian Fruechte | Lincoln County Tom Grundman | Douglas County Ray Hewitt | Le Sueur-Scott Counties Brad Hovel | Goodhue County Jim Jirava | Becker-Mahnomen Counties Mark Knutson | Marshall County Bob Lindeman | McLeod County Paul Mesner | Murray County Bruce Nelsen | Mower County

About the Cover The stage is set for the 2026 MN Ag Expo to score goals for Minnesota agriculture. With an agenda covering the farm economy, global trade and top-shelf checkoff projects, this year’s MN Ag Expo in Mankato is where the State of Hockey meets the State of Soy. Be there, in the arena!

Read more on page 22.

against any expense arising from claims or actions against the publisher because of the publication of the content of the advertisement.

Advertisements within this publication contain the opinions and information of the advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the Minnesota Soybean organizations or affiliated groups.

CIRCULATION Soybean Business is published six times a year on behalf of Minnesota Soybean. Comments and suggestions can be submitted to: Minnesota Soybean Growers Association, 1020 Innovation Lane Mankato, MN 56001

mnsoybean.org

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LETTER PRESIDENT FROM THE

Teamwork wins out In both farming and hockey, it takes a team to be successful. The same selfless mindset applies to working on behalf of our farmers to protect their interests at the state and federal level.

Sometimes we even need to work with other teams, like our friends at Minnesota Corn. Not only do we team up with the Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA) for events such as MN Ag Expo, but also to protect our farmers from unfair policies. Our combined advocacy recently led the MPCA to withdraw the rulemaking process for pesticide treated seed disposal — one of the biggest regulatory wins MSGA has earned in over a decade. Well played, I say!

The state of Minnesota is very diverse when it comes to farming, so one part of MN Ag Expo that excites me is visiting with farmers from across our unique regions of the state, each with varying crop rotations and farm practices, to talk about agriculture and what’s going on not only in Minnesota, but also across the whole United States. MN Ag Expo is a great venue to learn from one another and make new friends.

One of our big goals as we head into 2026 is to continue to play strong defense at the state level and make sure our farmers don’t lose any of the tools they need to grow their crop now and into the future, along with staying on top of water and drainage issues. We can’t let those issues slip through the five-hole.

Another goal for MSGA is to be a stronger home team and strengthen our soybean market domestically, whether that’s using soybeans as feed for our livestock, using SoyFoam or continuing to build our robust biofuels industry. Minnesota is on top of the power rankings when it comes to biofuels, and it needs to stay that way. Getting sustainable aviation fuels off the ground — pun intended — is a perfect way to add value here at home.

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The away schedule will get busier for me in 2026: I’m replacing George Goblish as one of Minnesota’s six directors on the American Soybean Association. Those are big skates to step into, but luckily our officer team has a “next person over the boards” mentality; if one of us is busy, another person is always willing to step up and help wherever and whenever needed. That goes for our entire MSGA team, be it directors or staff.

Everyone steps up to assist and get the job done. In joining ASA, I’m looking forward to getting up close and personal and crashing the net on federal policy and regulatory issues in D.C., along with helping build new markets for our producers.

Whether we’re talking about seed treatments, tax reform, trade news or crop protection products, these are issues that impact all farmers, so we need help from all of the key players, which includes…you.

Everyone has a role to play, and your membership in MSGA makes you a part of the team and allows you to have a voice in the locker room heading into these big matchups. I appreciate your support, and we’ll see you on the ice at MN Ag Expo.

Join MSGA and let’s get moving as a team.

It’s 2026: Game on!

Darin Johnson President, Minnesota Soybean Growers Association

MSGA ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE MSGA’s Delegate Session & Annual Meeting When: Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.

Where: Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato during MN Ag Expo All active MSGA members are invited to attend.

DEPARTMENT DISPATCH

BY COMMISSIONER

STEWARDSHIP STRENGTHENS MINNESOTA AGRICULTURE

This column is a series in Soybean Business featuring leaders from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

For a decade, the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP) has demonstrated what happens when experience and sound science move in the same direction.

Beginning as a farmer-driven pilot program emphasizing practical solutions, the voluntary program has steadily expanded over the years, reflecting producers’ growing interest in conservation.

Having reached the official 10year mark of the statewide rollout of the program, over 1,700 producers now manage more than 1.23 million certified acres. Each year, those acres keep nearly 167,000 tons of soil where it belongs while preventing over 59,000 tons of sediment and 75,000 pounds of phosphorus from reaching Minnesota waters. This is measurable progress driven by farmers who take stewardship seriously and understand its role in long-term agricultural strength.

Soybean producers have been essential to this progress. Your adoption of conservation-minded strategies — including nutrient management, reduced tillage and improvements like cover crops — shows how practical approaches work. The MAWQCP succeeds because farmers recognize a simple truth: healthy soils, clean water,

and strong yields go together. That understanding has guided the program from the beginning and shapes its direction today.

Certification provides clarity in a landscape crowded with programs and shifting standards. The process begins with a comprehensive, wholefarm assessment that considers nutrient use, tillage practices and soil health. Where adjustments are needed, conservation practices are implemented to meet water quality standards. In return, producers receive a 10-year guarantee that their operation meets Minnesota’s requirements, even if there are future regulatory changes.

Endorsements in climatesmart farming, integrated pest management and soil health help producers demonstrate thoughtful, forward-looking management in areas increasingly important to markets and supply chains. Many operations are experiencing this financial gain. Minnesota State colleges’ research recorded $50,600 higher average net income for certified farms compared to all other farms. These gains come from efficient fertilizer use, reduced fuel costs and greater resiliency of healthy soil.

Farmers consistently tell us the process offers another benefit.

THOM PETERSEN

Perspective. Certification offers a clear view, affirms effective practices and highlights opportunities for improvement. When adjustments are needed, the program connects participants with technical expertise and financial support. This is cooperation at work.

Looking ahead, Minnesota agriculture will continue to face weather variability, nutrient pressures and water challenges. The MAWQCP is prepared to meet these demands because it is built on the strengths of Minnesota producers’ respect for the land and commitment to community.

To those already certified, thank you. Your work is strengthening the future of Minnesota agriculture.

For those considering certification, I encourage you to connect with a local Soil & Water Conservation District and learn what the program can offer. It is voluntary, practical and designed to support your operation’s success.

Minnesota agriculture succeeds when its producers succeed. I want to thank the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association for their continued support of the Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture and MAWQCP are here to work with you to advance productivity and stewardship acre by acre.

COMMISSIONER PETERSEN WILL APPEAR ALONGSIDE LEGISLATIVE LEADERS AT MN AG EXPO DURING A POLICY PANEL JAN. 20 AT 1:15 P.M. ON THE LITZAU FARM DRAINAGE STAGE.

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Laying the

By Drew Lyon Lawmakers from across Minnesota will return to St. Paul on Feb. 17, 2026, to gavel in the 2026 legislative session. As the voice representing the state’s nearly 26,000 soybean producers, the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) has its sights set on not just earning wins this year but building policy groundwork for future sessions.

“There are so many factors in play as we prepare for this session,” MSGA President Darin Johnson said.

“We have a divided government with a huge election later in 2026 — that’s the reality we’re facing. It’s hard to hit home runs in this kind of environment, but we’re certainly going to take our swings.”

This year’s session offers a dizzying array of dynamics, assuring another unique season at the Capitol. Democrats cling to a thin, one-seat majority in the Senate, and all 67 members of the chamber will be on the ballot this November. In the tied House, all 134 seats are also up for election. In addition, House Speaker Lisa Demuth has announced her bid to prevent Gov. Tim Walz from becoming the first Minnesotan to serve three terms as governor and could be the GOP frontrunner heading into the August

primary. GOP Rep. Kristin Robbins, who visited MSGA Vice President Ryan Mackenthun’s farm last fall, is also a gubernatorial candidate.

Combine those elements with plenty of economic uncertainty at the federal level, along with midterm elections, and — although the environment can change on a dime — neither party in St. Paul is expected to be in the mood for bipartisan harmony, given the high stakes in November.

“It’s going to be one of those sessions where it’s going to be very difficult to pass anything that’s remotely controversial,” MSGA lobbyist Cory Bennett said. “We’re being pragmatic about putting forth a legislative session that is successful.”

For over 60 years, MSGA has earned its stripes as a nonpartisan organization that takes pride in working with legislators of all political persuasions. That mission serves well in a split government, and MSGA will rely on the relationships it’s built with GOP and DFL leaders to build bridges toward success in 2026.

“Our beans aren’t red or blue; we work on behalf of soybean farmers,” Johnson said. “If there are policies out there that benefit our farmers, we want to roll up our sleeves and work to make that happen.”

MSGA leaders visit with DFL Rep. Luke Frederick (back left) during the 2025 Hill Visits. MSGA will be counting on lawmakers from both parties to deliver for farmers in 2026.

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MSGA News

foundation MSGA thinking long term on eve of 2026 session On the docket The session comes after lawmakers in 2025 passed a $66 billion budget that significantly cut a projected $6 billion deficit for future years, but punted debates over health care, taxation and economic policy. In 2026, during the second year of the biennium, lawmakers will focus on passing supplemental legislation.

Legislative progress often doesn’t happen overnight; it can occur in increments over several years. The 2026 session could be centered around playing the long game and defending against legislation that would damage an already battered farm economy.

“Success is measured in different ways,” Bennett said. “Sometimes, good pieces of legislation take more than one year to get across the finish line. So, you’re constantly working towards that, and we’re going to work to make sure bills that add further constraints aren’t enacted.”

On top of defending against bills restricting farmers’ ability to operate, MSGA is prepared to promote bills that foster growth in agriculture, including: • Higher blends of biofuels • Property tax relief • Crop input protection • Rural infrastructure through a bonding bill • Developing new markets • Increasing trade via the Port of Duluth • Promoting the next generation of farmers • Rural health care “We’re always going to be interested in biofuels,” MSGA Executive Director Joe Smentek said. “How do we stay involved in different types of discussions with regards to sustainable aviation fuel investment in biofuels? We’re always going to look at that. I think that this year is going to be a good year to look at rural investments and different bonding projects. ... Unfortunately, we can’t do anything about the soybean prices.”

Even if legislation supported by MSGA doesn’t reach the governor’s desk, Johnson hopes those policies will carry into future sessions.

“It’s perfectly natural to get a little impatient at times, when progress isn’t happening as quickly as we liked,” he said. “But I think we all recognize that we need to look years down the road and look at some wins we can achieve in future sessions.”

MSGA will also protect its interests via the regulatory sector. The eight-year process of updating the Public Waters Inventory has begun, and MSGA is

Looking ahead MSGA is holding its annual Legislative Reception and Hill Visits March 10-11, 2026, in St. Paul. Farmer leaders from across the state gather at the Capitol to discuss MSGA priorities with lawmakers, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and, hopefully, Gov. Tim Walz. MSGA will also host Ag Expo attendees in its booth on the trade show floor, discussing policy and issues that are important to Minnesota farmers.

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keeping close tabs on the process as informational meetings on the updates continue across Minnesota.

“That’s going to be a big issue for us to look at this year, and we encourage our farmers to attend these meetings and voice their opinions,” Johnson said.

Prior to the session, MSGA will hold its annual meeting Jan. 20 at 8:30 a.m. during MN Ag Expo.

During the gathering, delegates from across over 40 counties will debate and approve MSGA’s 2026 policy resolutions, which will serve as a legislative guidebook for the year ahead. MSGA will also issue awards, look back on 2025 wins and welcome special guests. All active MSGA members are invited to attend.

“We’re going to do everything we can in St. Paul to make sure our voice is heard and we’re pointed in the right direction,” Johnson said.

Farmers and industry partners are encouraged to stay up to date on MSGA’s advocacy efforts by joining MSGA. Members earn exclusive updates from MSGA’s lobbying team via a weekly e-newsletter and Zoom Q&A, which is held every Friday morning during the session.

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MN Ag Expo Legislative Panel Attendees can get a sneak peek into the mindset of policy leaders Jan. 20 at 1:15 p.m. during MN Ag Expo. On the Litzau Farm Drainage Stage, Senate Ag Committee Chair Aric Putnam, House Ag Committee Chair Paul Anderson, Sen. Torrey Westrom and MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen will visit with moderator Kent Thiesse to discuss state-level farm policy issues in 2026. Other legislators are also expected to attend this year’s MN Ag Expo Jan. 20-21 at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center.

TEAMING UP

Advocacy in Action

MSGA, MN Corn Growers advocacy leads MPCA to withdraw rulemaking process for pesticide treated seed disposal

By Drew Lyon Following a sustained advocacy push from the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association and Minnesota Corn Growers Association, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) announced in November that it’s withdrawing the rulemaking process for pesticide treated seed disposal.

The withdrawal follows a May report from the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), which disapproved of the MPCA rulemaking because of procedural errors made by MPCA in the rulemaking process. If MPCA decides to proceed with the rulemaking, the agency will need to start from the beginning.

The withdrawal is a positive development for the farm groups that collaborated to oppose this rulemaking since it was first proposed by the Minnesota Legislature.

“The withdrawal of the treated seed rulemaking process is a win for the farm groups who have argued against this misguided policy since first proposed at the legislature,” said Wesley Beck, president of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association. “Treated seed is a vital crop production tool for Minnesota’s corn farmers, who responsibly steward the product and use it judiciously given its cost.”

After several years of successfully blocking this proposal at the Legislature, the DFL trifecta in 2023 directed the MPCA

to initiate rulemaking on disposal rules for unused and unsold pesticide treated seeds. The farm groups have contended for several years that unused and unsold treated seeds do not meet the definition of solid waste, and disposal of unused and unsold treated seed is not a big enough problem to warrant regulatory action from MPCA. “During the regulatory process it came to light that MPCA was grossly overestimating the amount of unused and unsold treated seed in Minnesota to justify this new regulatory process,” said Darin Johnson, president of MSGA. “MSGA and our farm group partners will continue to point out these errors and strenuously defend the use of federal approved crop production products for our members and farmers across Minnesota.”

Due to the procedural errors MPCA made during the rulemaking process, the ALJ didn’t get a chance to weigh the farm groups’ arguments about whether the rules are needed or reasonable. If MPCA initiates the rulemaking process again, the farm groups will continue to argue that the rules are unnecessary.

In March 2025, Johnson testified during an MPCA hearing to highlight the benefits of seed treatments on his Wells, Minn., farming operation.

“Seed treatments reduce our overall pesticide use by applying small, precise amounts of active ingredients directly to the seed, helping reduce the overall chemical load in the environment,” Johnson said.

MSGA Executive Director Joe Smentek, who testified in defense of treated seed during the 2023 Legislative Session, called the withdrawal one of the most crucial regulatory wins in his 12 years with MSGA. He said MSGA’s policy efforts alongside MCGA underscore the importance of becoming a member of farm advocacy groups.

“It’s one less regulation that farmers have to deal with, which is huge for our members,” Smentek said. “There’s a lot more we could achieve, but we need the momentum that membership support gives organizations like ours.”

Throughout the 2026 legislative session, MSGA will continue defending the use of crop protection tools.

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'A friend of agriculture' MSGA honors Melissa Hortman’s legacy

By Drew Lyon On March 11, 2020, Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman had every reason to cancel her office meeting with the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA). She had just come from huddling with state officials to learn more about the plan to address the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the leader of the Minnesota Legislature, Hortman likely had a lot on her mind that morning. A state shutdown loomed, which would have far-ranging, long-lasting ramifications for state government, the economy and society.

Yet, while her phone buzzed with activity, Hortman kept the meeting with MSGA and warmly greeted then MSGA President Jamie Beyer and future President Darin Johnson to discuss matters of importance to Minnesota soybean farmers. She listened as Johnson outlined MSGA’s tax priorities, later smiling for pictures with Beyer and Johnson.

“I remember she was apologizing that her phone was going off a lot that day, but she was still giving us her attention,” Johnson said. “I don’t think we fully understood at the time what was happening.”

With the 2026 Legislative Session arriving in February, MSGA and the Minnesota Legislature continue to mourn the death of Speaker Emerita Hortman, who was killed,

along with her husband, Mark, and their dog, Gilbert, in a targeted shooting on June 14, 2025, in their home in Brooklyn Park.

“Speaker Emerita Hortman was a friend of agriculture. As a suburban lawmaker, she took time to understand the ag industry,” said Thom Petersen, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and a longtime friend and colleague. “She advocated for many budgets that prioritized rural Minnesota, reaching across the aisle to ensure farm families were supported. Speaker Emerita Hortman’s leadership on many issues, including her advocacy for biofuels, will be missed.”

A.J. Duerr, a lobbyist with MSGA, knew Hortman on a professional and personal level for 20 years.

The two both arrived at the Capitol in 2005: Hortman had just been elected to represent District 47B, while Duerr began a six-year stint as a House legislative assistant and committee administrator. Even after Duerr transitioned into the lobbying world, he strengthened his rapport as she ascended the DFL ranks in the House.

Her legislative influence would continue growing, but Hortman remained affable, accessible and committed to policy solutions.

“I worked with her for our entire career at the Capitol,” said Duerr,

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who attended a memorial for the Hortmans at the Capitol. “She was always somebody that took the time to learn an issue and listened to all sides, especially on ag policies.”

MSGA Executive Director Joe Smentek said Hortman was a strong supporter of renewable fuels during her two decades as a state legislator. As House Energy Policy Committee chair in 20132014, Hortman ensured a smooth transition to B10 (10% biodiesel).

“Melissa Hortman was instrumental in helping us get to B10,” Smentek said. “She was a very active supporter of biodiesel and the biodiesel mandate.”

Common grounds In 2019, after the election of Gov. Tim Walz, Hortman became the first woman to serve as Minnesota House Speaker. MSGA worked with Hortman during the 2019 session to notch several key victories, including rural mental health funding, tax conformity, assistance for emerging farmers and protecting biodiesel and crop inputs.

“Everything fell into place (in 2019) for MSGA in St. Paul,” Beyer said.

The following year, amid the economic uncertainty of the pandemic, MSGA helped secure full Section 179 conformity as part of a $1.9 billion public works package, the state’s largest bonding bill.

MSGA Tribute

Hortman served as House Speaker through 2024 before passing the gavel to Rep. Lisa Demuth. Despite a DFL trifecta that limited MSGA’s policy opportunities, the association continued to earn policy, energy, tax and regulatory wins throughout Hortman’s tenure as speaker.

Throughout her speakership, Hortman remained open to MSGA and the farming community, often attending and walking the Farmfest grounds to visit with farmers. Just days before Hortman’s death, Hortman phoned Smentek following the 2025 special session to take the pulse of MSGA and offer assurances of working together in 2026.

“She had an insane schedule as House Speaker, but always found the time to listen to us,” Duerr said.

“She didn’t want to just check the box; she wanted to understand why we supported certain bills or had concerns with something.”

Duerr’s lobbying colleague, Cory Bennett, also has fond memories of Hortman. Although she represented the Twin Cities suburbs and didn’t agree with MSGA on all policies, Hortman sought to find common ground with farm groups.

“Melissa Hortman was a true champion and a true leader for Minnesota agriculture,” Bennett said. “There were plenty of times

“Speaker Hortman was a giant of Minnesota politics and one of the most influential legislators in our state’s history. It’s a tragic loss to Minnesota and our farmers on so many levels. She was a champion of ag issues, and even when we disagreed, it was always with mutual respect and a promise to continue finding common ground. You always knew where you stood with Speaker Hortman.”

- MSGA Executive Director Joe Smentek

when she stepped across the aisle and pushed through legislation, particularly on biofuels, that were really a benefit to not only the state of Minnesota, but also to Minnesota farmers. And I think that sometimes that is lost in our political dynamic, is that she was a true leader, and she will be sorely missed.”

The legislator was effective, pragmatic and irreplaceable, Bennett said. The person behind the lawmaker held even more attributes: kindness, wit, sincerity and a deep love for animals and nature.

“She was just a truly good human being,” Bennett said. “A nice person, and easy to get to know.”

Melissa Hortman (right) speaks with then MSGA President Jamie Beyer (front) and Executive Director Joe Smentek at the 2019 Farmfest.

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Andrew Mages is all smiles when he’s in the field with his family.

‘STEPPING

By Mark Askelson Andrew Mages is far from the loudest person in the room, but don’t mistake his soft-spoken voice for shyness. The 44-year-old soybean and corn farmer from Moorhead has shown an eagerness to socialize, network and learn from his mentors during his journey into agriculture leadership.

Now, he seeks to take the next step as a farmer advocate by joining the 2025-26 class of the American Soybean Association (ASA) Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program.

“For me, this Young Leader Program is a stepping stone to getting more involved in ag leadership,” Mages said. “I’ve really enjoyed learning more about the ins

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and outs of policy and meeting new people too, of course. We’re already a very tight group.”

The Young Leader Program, which was founded in 1984, not only enhances participants’ skills through leadership, communications and issues-based training, but also builds a strong peer network, generating

Checkoff Sponsorship

“I really enjoyed the communications training where we learned a lot about how to communicate effectively with media as well as our peers and how to sound confident when trying to get our message across,” Mages said. “They broke us out of our comfort zones by making us give presentations and record videos, but that really helped in the end.”

increased success in their business and community. As part of the program, which is supported by Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council checkoff funding, participants commit to attend two training sessions. The first phase took place Dec. 1-4, 2025, at Corteva’s Global Business Center in Iowa. The second session is held in February at Commodity Classic in San Antonio. A third, invite-only session is held in July in Washington, D.C., during ASA’s summer board meetings and Hill Visits.

At the first session in Iowa, Mages and the rest of the Young Leader class were briefed on soybean policy and sharpened their leadership and communication skills, as well as toured the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in Des Moines and other networking events.

A tradition of leadership Agriculture wasn’t always the direction of Mages’ life compass.

While he still helped out on the family farm near Belgrade, he initially studied to be a civil engineer at North Dakota State University (NDSU). However, after roughly a decade working in the industry, he opted to return to NDSU for a degree in ag economics, as his interest in agriculture and farming returned, with some clever assistance from his father.

“My dad tricked me by offering me a few acres to rent, which meant I would be home more often to help, and then my involvement grew from there,” Mages said. “Now, this last year, I began the transition of taking over the whole farm.”

Mages’ full-time job is a risk management commodity trader and crop insurance agent for Progressive Ag, where he assists farmers with marketing their crop.

As he started returning in earnest to farming, he joined the ClayWilkin County Corn & Soybean Growers Board to be more active in promoting agriculture and meet others in the industry.

“One of the things my dad taught me is that it’s important to be involved and have a voice in agriculture,” Mages said. “Joining the Clay-Wilkin board has been a great experience, because through our events like Breakfast on the Farm you get the opportunity to promote ag to those who aren’t as familiar with say, for example, the many uses of soy, such as soy tires or shoes or SoyFoam.”

Mages’ position on the Clay-

Wilkin County board and his experience in crop marketing opened him up to an opportunity at the 2025 MN Ag Expo, where he led a session on the subject for the Young & Emerging Farmer Workshop, which is co-hosted by MSGA. During his time at MN Ag Expo and other events such as the Future of Soy, he took advantage of the opportunity to network and never shied from picking the brains of Minnesota Soybean’s leaders, including Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) President Darin Johnson, Secretary Kyle Jore and Director Bob Worth.

As part of his participation in the Young Leader Program, Mages will serve as an at-large director with MSGA and attended his first board meeting in December 2025. He’s also looking forward to learning from past ASA Young Leaders who have stepped into leadership roles within MSGA, MSR&PC and ASA. “The Young Leaders program really got my jump started into the soybean world and it was a great opportunity to learn from those on ASA, and I realized that those folks were farmers just like me and it was an achievable goal for myself,” said MSGA Vice President Ryan Mackenthun, a member of the 2019-20 Young Leader Class. “Even if it’s not the soybean industry, the world needs more leaders and advocates and this program is big step towards that.”

Leadership has always been in the back of Mages’ mind as it runs in his family. Leading the way for him has been his biggest mentor over the years, his father, John, who has a stout resume of leadership in Minnesota agriculture and is currently chair of the Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council.

“It’s fun hearing stories about him from some of the people I’ve met who’ve worked with him over the years and the amount of respect they have for him,” Mages said, “so it’s an honor to carry on that tradition of leadership.”

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A NATURAL LEADER After two decades, George Goblish transitions from Capitol Hill to checkoff direction

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Soybean Business Feature

By Drew Lyon George Goblish was raised with his four sisters on the family farm in Redwood County. In addition to raising four children with his wife, Jenifer, Goblish cultivated a new farming family when he joined the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) and American Soybean Association (ASA).

“I grew up with no brothers, but I found my brothers in MSGA and ASA,” Goblish said. “It’s truly a connection that goes beyond friends. We’re thick as thieves.”

Goblish might be leaving the family per se, but he’s still firmly in the fold. After almost 20 years as a director, governing board member and president with MSGA — along with 11 years on ASA — Goblish stepped down in December 2025 from both MSGA and ASA. He’s merely switching teams after being elected in spring 2025 to help direct soy checkoff dollars on the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council. Goblish has also been nominated to represent Minnesota on the United Soybean Board, beginning in 2026.

“We really need new markets for our product because of our prices. We need to do something with our beans,” said Goblish, who represents District 7. “I’m excited to work with our board and industry to find those new markets and products to add demand.”

As a longtime firefighter, Goblish is also supportive of the Council’s efforts in promoting soy-based firefighting foam.

“I like looking at new products, and I’m so glad we’re moving forward with SoyFoam,” he said. “Soy products are everywhere now.”

Goblish said the ascension of his fellow Redwood County producers on ASA, Adam Guetter and Jeff Sorenson, made his advocacy presence a bit redundant.

The time arrived to pass the mantle to a new generation.

“We’ve got plenty of good representation from Redwood County,” he said. “I don’t need to be there anymore on the policy side.”

Goblish was honored by his peers at his final board meetings for a legacy of advocating, relationship building, visionary leadership and countless hours of bonding among friends.

MSGA President Darin Johnson is taking Goblish’s seat on ASA and applauded the Vesta farmer for showing him the ropes and the gentle art of nonpartisan lobbying in the nation’s capital.

“George is one of those leaders who isn’t afraid to step up and be a mentor along the way,” Johnson said.

“He’s very well connected and has helped me build those relationships that he’s invested in, the time he’s devoted. He leaves big shoes to fill, but I know I have a lot of experienced directors on ASA backing me up.”

Goblish was unable to attend his farewell ASA meeting in St. Louis. He was double-booked: As part of his new role on the Council, Goblish attended a trade mission to the Philippines. Still, his colleagues in St. Louis paid tribute.

“I don’t know of any other ASA director who spent more time and effort into creating a better board,” said MSR&PC Director Joel Schreurs, who’s worked alongside Goblish on MSR&PC, MSGA and ASA. “He worked really hard on a lot of different issues. George was so dedicated to the job at hand.”

Piquing interest Goblish was serving on his county board when he was appointed to MSGA in 2006 after coaxing from his friend Tom Zeug. Goblish’s first meeting was held in the dark, crammed basement in MSGA’s former headquarters in North Mankato.

“I said, ‘What are you getting me into here, Tom?’” Goblish said, laughing. “But I sat there, and the discussions piqued my interest, and I said, ‘Yeah, I can fill in for you, Tom.’ And from there it snowballed into many other things.”

Prior to becoming a director, Goblish found many side hustles to fill his winter calendar between growing seasons: milking cows, driving trucks and welding, before deciding that advocating would be less physically taxing, though more of an intellectual challenge.

“Being a farmer, you’ve got to know something about things like the Farm Bill,” Goblish said. “But I didn’t know the first thing about lobbying and never in my wildest dreams thought I’d go to the state Capitol, let alone D.C., and advocate on behalf of soybean farmers.”

Growers elected Goblish to MSGA’s officer team. He served a year as vice president under the late Bruce Schmoll and became president in 2013. During his two years leading MSGA, Goblish helped oversee a smooth

Continued on page 18 JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - 17

transition to B10 (10% biodiesel), made the first defenses against Gov. Dayton’s buffer initiative and brought MSGA’s membership numbers to record highs.

Goblish, a former FFA chapter president, said presiding over MSGA and visiting legislative offices felt natural.

“I like being in leadership roles,” he said. “Being part of decisions, I liked that.”

In 2014, Goblish began his 11-year run on ASA and attended dozens of Hill Visits to meet with Minnesota’s congressional delegation. He cited his work on Farm Bill advocacy, biofuels, trade and aquaculture as a few of his favorite topics to discuss with policy leaders. He built friendships with both sides of the aisle, including Rep. Collin Peterson — “Collin would buy sweetcorn from me,” Goblish recalled — House Whip Tom Emmer and Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

“We’re so fortunate to have our senators and representatives in leadership roles,” he said. “It opened up a few extra doors.”

Goblish was a member of ASA’s Executive Committee and served on several other boards during his decade on ASA: the Soy Aquaculture Alliance, WISHH and ASA’s Commodity Classic Planning Committee, which he chaired in 2022. He’s also proud of his two years chairing ASA’s SoyPAC, which provide ASA with funds that help support legislators who favor farm-friendly policies.

Goblish’s role might be changing, but the friends made along the way? Those are for life.

“If they call me for anything at all, I’ll show up and help,” he said, “and vice versa.”

Goblish also served six years on the Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council. His son Jordan, who farms soy and corn with his dad, replaced George on MCR&PC.

“George has been a very involved and dedicated leader on the ASA Board, representing Minnesota soybean growers in an outstanding way. He provided strong leadership on ASA’s Executive Committee and contributed meaningfully to several Advocacy Teams, including Trade Policy & International Affairs. George’s service has made a lasting, positive George Goblish has developed bonds with legislators from both sides of the aisle, including Rep. Tom Emmer (right). “We hit it off,” Goblish said.

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impact on soybean growers and on our association.”

- ASA CEO Steve Censky

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A MINNESOTA-FIRST MINDSET MSGA promotes MN ag during EU trade mission

By Mark Askelson Leaders from the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) traveled abroad in November 2025 to meet with industry and trade partners in Switzerland and Germany.

The European Union (EU) trade mission was organized by Gov. Tim Walz and focused on promoting Minnesota industries and business along four different tracts, including agriculture.

The EU remains a strong trade partner with the United States.

According to the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), the EU represents about 11% of all U.S. whole soybean and soybean meal imports. Of the over 60 professionals involved in the trade

mission, there were nine on the ag tract, including the Minnesota Department of Ag Commissioner Thom Petersen, MSGA President Darin Johnson and Executive Director Joe Smentek. The small group allowed for more intimate discussions and better networking opportunities among the cohort.

“There was a lot of time to chat with (Gov. Walz), as well as the commissioner and deputy commissioner of agriculture,” Smentek said. “Having that small group really helped strengthen the bonds with groups we don’t normally get to talk to and deepen those connections to strengthen agriculture in Minnesota.”

The trade mission began in Zurich, the largest city in

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Switzerland and a global center for banking and finance, where they met with Jeff Rowe, CEO of Swissbased Syngenta. Johnson said the visit to Syngenta, an agribusiness familiar to most U.S. farmers, provided a unique perspective on how it operates in EU and the challenges Syngenta faces.

“From a policy standpoint, they’re very similar to what our organization (MSGA) is dealing with now and into the future,” Johnson said. “As far as the environment goes, they’re on top of it because they have very strict rules that they have to follow on their farms.”

Those strict environmental regulations in the EU are making it difficult for the smaller farms, especially in Germany, to adapt

Building Markets

to those changes. Conversely, larger farms in the U.S. have already implemented and adapted conservation practices that meet the regulatory needs of EU. Throughout the trade mission, the Minnesota delegation highlighted MDA’s voluntary Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP), which recognizes growers for implementing healthy conservation practices.

“As Europe continues to put on more restrictions, it’s going to make it more difficult for them to meet their own demand,” Smentek said. “We in the U.S. have ways of meeting their demand and those environmental regulations, such as deforestation, so we’re sitting in a pretty good position to send them biofuels and grains as they stop producing them because of the regulations.”

Keeping it ‘real’ The trade group also had the opportunity to visit with fellow farmers representing the Westphalian Farmers Association, one of the main trade organizations in Germany that represents agriculture.

“We had a lot of great backand-forth conversations about some of the same issues we deal with in Minnesota, such as regulations on crop protection products and solar farms taking over highly productive land,” said Johnson, who’s enrolled in MAWQCP. “They’ve had some good years recently because of added demand with what’s happening in Ukraine, but they’re producing less because of restrictions.”

The group then met with representatives of a pair of companies who also conduct business in Minnesota. In Switzerland they met with Buhler, an international company that engineers and manufacturers food processing equipment and systems. The company operates in more than 140 countries and has a location in the Twin Cities. While in Germany, they also visited one of

the facilities of Minnesota-based Cargill, where the discussion quickly led to the topic of tariffs.

“Tariffs have made it difficult for them to get products into the U.S., so there was definitely some frustration on that side of things, but we’ve historically had a good trade relationship with them in the past through the bilateral trade agreements,” said Johnson. “Overall, the conversation was pretty positive in the end, and they remain a very important trade partner with us.”

Just prior to the delegation’s arrival, the U.S. and Switzerland agreed to cut tariff rates from 39% — the highest rate of any European country — to 15%. As Minnesota Soybean seeks to grow the EU market and diversify exports beyond China, Johnson believes that these trade missions play an important role in strengthening customer relations and letting them know that Minnesota farmers are doing everything they can to provide them with quality product regardless of tariffs.

“It’s all about the relationship that we’ve made with them and being able to have a candid conversation

about what we’re doing on our farm,” Johnson said. “It truly does show how confident we are in the crops we’re producing on our farms and in turn they can be more confident in making a purchase from us, knowing that they can put a face to the commodity.”

Johnson, who was also representing the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council in Europe, said he was pleased with the positive interactions and the “Minnesota-first” agenda of the trip, including promoting one of the state’s most critical economic drivers: agriculture.

“It makes you feel good about Minnesota,” Johnson said. “There’s a lot of good people out there fighting the good fight to make the state better and build business and relationships. We were able to throw some of the politics aside, talk about agriculture and just be real.”

Minnesota Soybean continues to prioritize developing markets in 2026 and expects to participate in global trade missions alongside national partners, including USSEC, the United Soybean Board, American Soybean Association and WISHH.

Growth in Germany In 2024, Germany was Minnesota’s eighth largest export market for goods, valued at $649 million. Germany is the world’s third largest economy and Europe’s largest economy. It is also the fifth-largest whole soybean market for U.S. Soy, with imports averaging over $1 billion annually.

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2026

MN AG

EXPO The Great One 2026 MN Ag Expo set for success

By Bailey Grubish Get ready: MN Ag Expo’s expanded, two-day conference and trade show is just around the corner.

Walking into the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center can mean seeing your favorite music act, attending a wedding or cheering on the Minnesota State University, Mankato hockey team, but Jan. 20-21, 2026, stepping into the arena means attending MN Ag Expo – the state’s marquee winter agriculture trade show.

With an expected audience of over 1,200, there’s something for everyone at MN Ag Expo. This year’s show has grown to showcase the latest and greatest farm equipment.

“We’re moving the bar even higher this year for MN Ag Expo, since we added the large equipment space to the show,” said Darin Johnson, president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA). “I’m amazed at the growth we have every year with attendance, exhibitors and sponsors. We were excited to add the new space, and I can’t wait to visit with our industry colleagues.”

The show brings together a wide range of agriculture experts and industry professionals. With the addition of the large equipment room, a first since MN Ag Expo has been at this location, there are more than 100 exhibitors from across agriculture to meet and learn from. In addition to the diverse agenda, the entire show — including meals and entry — is free, thanks to sponsors, event hosts MSGA and the Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA), and soy checkoff support.

Something for everyone Kicking off Day One on Jan. 20 is MSGA’s delegate session and annual meeting at 8:30 a.m., with the trade show floor opening at 9 a.m. Each year, MSGA and MCGA gather farmer delegates from around Minnesota for their annual meetings to discuss and approve their policy priorities for 2026, and recognize farmers and industry partners.

The MN Ag Expo agenda wastes no time diving into relevant topics with its first session, Learning from 2025: Key Economic Drivers Shaping Agriculture in 2026 followed by a grain bin safety demonstration and more learning sessions before the lunch Q&A hosted by CHS on the Litzau Farm Drainage Stage in the hockey arena.

“Ag Expo is a great time for farmers to expand their connections or for college students to learn about career opportunities,” Johnson said. “We always aim to offer a variety of learning sessions and speakers that are interesting to our attendees.”

That afternoon, the legislative panel kicks off with a bipartisan group of policy leaders and more learning sessions. At 3:30 p.m., MCGA will host an auction and reception on the mezzanine.

To cap off the trade show portion of the conference on Day One is keynote speaker John Harrington of “Miracle on Ice” hockey fame at 5:30 p.m.

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Checkoff Sponsorship

Vice President Ryan Mackenthun (left) will once again help lead MSGA’s Delegate Session and Annual Meeting during the 2026 MN Ag Expo.

“Who better to speak of overcoming the odds than a member of a team that delivered one of the greatest upsets in sports history?” MSGA Vice President Ryan Mackenthun said.

The encore for the evening of Jan. 20 is Expo After Hours, hosted by MSGA at the Loose Moose Saloon next to the civic center. MSGA’s fundraising event starts at 7 p.m. with all proceeds supporting MSGA’s lobbying efforts in St. Paul and Washington, D.C. A $25 ticket includes free food and drinks, silent and live auction opportunities, along with networking with directors and industry partners and raffle games for a chance to win prizes.

The early riser session, Why Global Events Impact Local Fertilizer with Josh Linville from StoneX at 7:45 a.m., starts Day Two, followed by MCGA’s annual meeting at 8 a.m.

At 9:30 a.m., attendees can jump back in sessions on trade, with a mental health program featuring Ted Matthews at 10:30 a.m. and a grain bin demonstration.

Lunch kicks off with the fish house raffle drawing followed by keynote speaker Steve Fredlund.

State of Soy Skate into the Minnesota Soybean booth #17 at MN Ag Expo to connect with farmer leaders and learn more about the impact of soybean checkoff investments.

Tour the fish house, or “warming house,” MSGA is raffling off tickets to win and raise additional funds for lobbying efforts. Tickets are $100 with a limit of 500 tickets sold. The winner doesn’t need to be present to win.

“With our booth in the hockey arena, we’re leaning into the idea of the ‘State of Soy’ in the ‘State of Hockey’ to show in interactive ways how the Council is using soybean checkoff funds,” MSR&PC Chair

Gail Donkers said. “We’re involved in new uses like SoyFoam, building markets in Uzbekistan and sponsoring research, and we’re looking forward to telling that story to our farming audience.”

Attendees can also visit MSGA’s membership table and learn more about MSGA’s 2026 policy priorities before witnessing the MSR&PC hat trick.

Traditionally a hat trick is when one player scores three goals in one game; the checkoff is focused on scoring goals in new uses, export markets and research.

MSR&PC notched its first goal with SoyFoam. In 2025, MSR&PC focused on SoyFoam donations to over 200 fire departments across the state. This product was created by Cross Plains Solutions, which partnered with MSR&PC to continue testing and promoting the safer product.

Goal two for Minnesota’s soy checkoff is building export markets through strengthening long-term trade relations and expanding trade opportunities.

Last fall, MSR&PC staff joined the USDA, along with other commodity organizations and agribusinesses, on a trade mission to Taiwan, one of the largest export markets for U.S. agriculture. Farmer leaders will continue efforts in 2026 to build global demand for U.S. soy.

The final goal to complete the hat trick is soybean checkoff-supported research that works to improve conditions and strategies for farmers. Waterhemp is a pesky weed that checkoff research is prioritizing; attendees will find it in the “penalty box” when visiting the booth. Outside the trade show, checkoff-supported researchers will be stationed to visit with farmers to highlight projects and learn more about production challenges facing producers heading into the 2026 growing season.

Be there at MN AG Expo – in the arena!

Learn more at mnagexpo.com.

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'Greater as a Group' Miracle on Ice alum John Harrington to highlight team mindset to farmers at MN Ag Expo

By Mark Askelson The grit, determination and passion for putting in work — there are a lot of similarities between what makes a successful hockey player and a farmer.

Olympic gold medalist and longtime hockey coach John Harrington hopes to connect the two when he addresses attendees as a MN Ag Expo keynote speaker Jan. 20, 2026, at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato.

“Farmers have a blue-collar approach; they put in long hours and have to work hard, and they understand that’s what they have to do to have any type of success, and I saw that same mentality with my teammates on the Olympic team,” Harrington said. “And in hockey and farming there’s things you can’t control, and it’s how you handle those situations and take the next step.”

Harrington, a native of the Iron Range community of Virginia, Minn., credits his high school and University of Minnesota Duluth hockey coaches for developing him into a great hockey player, which led him to the ultimate opportunity to play under Herb Brooks on the 1980 Olympic hockey team and cement his name in history as part of the “Miracle on Ice” team that shocked the world by winning the gold medal.

Harrington’s grit and selfless play led to him tallying the assist on Mike Eruzione’s game-winning goal against the Soviet Union. He notes that the lessons learned from the Miracle team and the legendary

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Coach Brooks will be what he will stress to farmers during his keynote.

“We found out that we can be stronger as a group than we could be as individuals, and that’s not just sports — that’s businesses, that’s jobs, that’s everything in life is the ability to work together and be stronger as a whole than trying to do everything by yourself,” Harrington said.

“What I learned as a player and as a coach later in life, it’s that you have to be able to count on other people around you and they have to know as well that if we do this together, we can be greater as a group.”

Beating the odds While farmers won’t see a gold medal presentation at the end of their harvest, they can probably relate to the sense of pride and accomplishment a hockey player feels after a hard-earned win. However, it might be hard to match the feeling Harrington and the rest of the U.S. team felt after what they accomplished that miraculous day in Lake Placid, New York: a group of scrappy amateurs defeating the heavily favored Soviets.

“There was this feeling of self-satisfaction that you set out to do something; you trained to give yourself the best opportunity to do that and sometimes things work out for you,” Harrington said. “At the moment there was this sense of accomplishment; this was what I dreamt would happen, this is what I trained like crazy to make it happen and it did.”

Checkoff Events

Following his time with the U.S. National Team and a brief time playing professionally abroad, Harrington went on to a long career in coaching. He was an assistant coach at the University of Denver and then notched his first head coaching gig with a successful run at St. John’s University, where over 15 seasons he amassed a handful of conference titles and NCAA tournament appearances. He then returned to coaching Division I with the Minnesota State Mankato women’s hockey team, where he coached for nine seasons before retiring in 2024.

“I really enjoyed my time coaching in Mankato because I had a great group of players who worked hard and wanted to get better,” said Harrington, who now lives in Maple Grove where he’s taken over a new career as a “professional grandkid watcher.”

“I also really enjoyed being a part of the Mankato community and a great university.”

Harrington’s return to Mankato for the MN Ag Expo is fitting because the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association and Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council booths are taking on a hockey theme this year. This year’s MN Ag Expo floor has also been extended to include the main hockey arena of the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center.

Let’s play hockey!

“We’re really excited to have a hockey icon such as John Harrington join us at MN Ag Expo because hockey, like farming, is such a big part of our culture in our state,” said MSGA Secretary Kyle Jore, who resides in the hockey hotbed of Thief River Falls. “In the summer we grow soybeans and in the winter we play hockey. It’s what we do.”

Relive the ‘Miracle’ Join the MN Ag Expo team at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20 in the Banquet Hall for John Harrington’s keynote address. Harrington, who plans to bring along his gold medal, will also be available afterwards to meet fellow hockey fans. Visit mnagexpo.com to learn more.

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John Harrington and his Olympic teammates were awarded a congressional gold medal in December 2025 after legislation honoring the team was authored by U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber and signed by President Trump.

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Going on a ‘Safari’ Checkoff Events

MN Ag Expo keynote embraces adventure

By Bailey Grubish There’s the right way, and there’s the wrong way. But what about…the “unright” way?

Professional speaker Steve Fredlund is taking the main stage at MN Ag Expo Jan. 21, 2026, during lunch to share how going down an “unright” path can lead to personal and professional fulfillment through his Safari Way Roadmap speech.

Fredlund went “right” by attending college and working for a Fortune 500 company, spending most of his career as an actuary. He then broke toward the “unright” way and discovered his passion as a speaker.

“I think his message will resonate with our audience and he has a compelling story to share his point,” said Darin Johnson, president of the Minesota Soybean Growers Association.

As a two-time TEDx presenter and author of “Do the Unright Thing,” Fredlund will share how a visit to Rwanda brought lasting inspiration and insights.

“It’s this idea of embracing the fact that we are on,

Go the “unright” way with Steve Fredlund Jan. 21 at MN Ag Expo during his lunch keynote in the Banquet Hall.

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personally and professionally, in our farms, in our work, we are on this adventure. And the more we can lean into that and embrace it, the better we’re going to feel personally,” Fredlund said. “We’re also going to be more engaged or be more collaborative. We’re going to be more innovative. We’re going to be more creative. And we can start to create a culture of that around this.”

He shared that through research he’s learned there are two kinds of people experiencing the same situation: Those who always feel defeated and those who are energized and optimistic.

“It comes down to a mindset, this idea of what I call the ‘adventure mindset,’ this idea of there are people trying to encourage people,” Fredlund said. “How do we start to have a perspective toward our business and life and everything where we recognize that farming and life, they are an adventure. This is what it means to be human. This is what it means to have a farm. There are always these ups and downs and highs and lows and knowns and unknowns and this is the very nature of every adventure. It’s the very nature of life. It’s the very nature of our existence.”

Sharing stories This is Fredlund’s first visit to MN Ag Expo, though he spoke in 2025 in Oklahoma City to soy farmers and state staff, including MSGA Executive Director Joe Smentek.

“I’m excited to network and hang out with people, to hear their stories,” Fredlund said. “It’s fun for people to share their stories, but for me, it’s fun to learn more about that. Hopefully I can be at some of the breakouts and chat with some of the people. ... I’m excited about being able to take that and then spread the message.”

Though not a farmer, Fredlund is no stranger to being around the farm helping his wife’s family and growing up around family who farmed. He said he’s always appreciated and loved farmers’ work ethics and what they mean to their communities.

“At first, I was a little intimidated, because I’m not a farmer,” Fredlund said of speaking to agriculture groups. “I don’t have the hands of a farmer, right? You can be shaking hands with all these people who are, salt of the earth, you know, worn hands, so kind of intimidating, but they were super welcoming. And I think it’s such a good fit.”

MN Ag Expo 2026

Staying safe Grain bin safety experts offering tips during MN Ag Expo demo

By Allison Wright With nearly 40 years of industry experience, Tim Zehnder shares his passion for grain bin safety with both the farming community and first responders.

Zehnder, director of education and safety at ExEnvironmental and Rural Firefighters Delivering Ag Safety and Health (RF-DASH) lead trainer, is excited to bring his team to conduct three, 30-minute sessions on grain bin safety to the 2026 MN Ag Expo.

“You can be chest-deep in 30 seconds,” Zehnder said. “The more people that we can make aware of what happens and how fast it happens, the better off we are going to be.”

Zehnder has traveled across the United States to educate both farmers and first responders on farm safety. As a non-regulatory group, RF-DASH is focused on education and ensuring neighbors can help neighbors and make farms and ranches a safer place.

In 2024, there were 51 total farm-confined space cases. According to the University of Purdue, of those 51 documented cases, 31 were grain bin-related and 22 were fatal cases (including several in Minnesota), a 25% increase from 2023.

Those stats don’t quite tell the full story, Zehnder says.

“They aren’t finding new ways to die in a grain bin. It’s the same thing over and over again,” he said. “Those are documented — that is not all of the cases that have happened around the country. It is very poorly reported on unless a news crew gets ahold of it. The statistics are very skewed.”

One of the most notable takeaways Zehnder has seen during his career is that when conditions are tougher, there appears to be a spike in cases.

He said this is caused from farmers having issues with the crop going in the bin, thus causing more trouble with grain entrapments.

‘A main concern’ The Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) advocates for state and federal resources to support grain bin safety, including the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Grain Storage Facility Safety Grant program that partially reimbursees producers who install eligible safety equipment for on-farm grain bins or silos.

“Safety is a main concern for everybody working around or near grain bins,” said Ryan Mackenthun, MSGA vice president and a member of the MN Ag Expo planning committee. “Having someone at MN Ag Expo to help advocate for farm safety and show this grain bin demonstration to farmers is a great thing.”

Zehnder began his career as a firefighter in Truman, Minn., gaining hands-on experience in the field. He served with statewide training groups and later became director of fire at South Central Community College. His career also includes leading the Nebraska Society of Fire Service Instructors before moving into his current role with ExEnvironmental and RF-DASH. “This crew has lots of years of experience and information to share,” Zehnder said.

“Come with questions: We would love to answer them all.”

SAFETY STAYS RELEVANT MN Ag Expo attendees have multiple chances to participate in a grain bin safety demo at the farm safety area in the large equipment space in the Grand Hall.

Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 10 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.

Weds., Jan. 21 at 11:15 a.m.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - 27

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An IRA offers low monetary limits to open, is tax­ deferred and an attractive option for investors in a higher tax bracket. Earnings grow through an IRA and withdrawals can begin as early as age 59 ½, with mandatory withdrawals starting at age 73. Contributions to a Roth IRA aren't tax-deductible, but earnings grow tax-free, and qualified withdrawals are also tax-free.

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"Farmers are looking at these things: 'Do I invest in an IRA? Do I buy a pickup?' Because there are times it does make sense if you're putting a lot into repairs," he says.

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28 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026

JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - 29

Building New Markets

Bean around the world MDA’s new trade head talking relationships, priorities at MN Ag Expo

By Drew Lyon There’s likely no more relevant topic at the 2026 MN Ag Expo than international trade and preserving valuable export markets that contribute to Minnesota farmers’ bottom line.

“The importance of trade has obviously been front and center over the past year,” said Darin Johnson, president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association. “We’ve hosted trade panels in recent years as well and are looking to drill down deep on this issue at this year’s Ag Expo.”

In fall 2025, Christina Connelly returned to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s trade division after more than a decade with the Canadian Consulate, where she served as trade commissioner of agri-food, facilitating trade between Canada and Midwestern states, including Minnesota.

“I’m excited to lead a team here at MDA,” Connelly said. “With the Canadian Consulate, I was on the flip side, on the importing side and working more with the buyer community in the Midwest, versus now I’m helping exporters go overseas.”

Connelly will moderate a Jan. 21 trade panel at MN Ag Expo with Mexico Head Consul Alejandra Bologna, Counsel General of Canada Beth Richardson and MDA Deputy Commissioner Andrea Vaubel. Connelly will also be available to meet farmers and commodity groups on the Expo trade show floor.

Minnesota agriculture has changed in myriad ways since Connelly served as international trade manager from 2011-2014, but a few factors stayed constant: Relationships and reliability are crucial.

“I’m trying to get together with all of the commodity organizations in Minnesota over the next couple of

months to understand everyone’s international market priorities as I look to the next three to five years,” said Connelly, who serves as MDA’s international supervisor, replacing the retired Jeffrey Phillips. “Although I’ve worked with them in the past, everything is changing so fast right now, and I want to understand what people are thinking and really how it’s going.”

Minnesota Soybean has met with Connelly multiple times in her new role. She joined Johnson and MSGA Executive Director Joe Smentek on Gov. Walz’s trade mission in November 2025 to Switzerland and Germany. She was encouraged by the reception the ag delegation received, and the strong showing of unity delivered by state leaders, including MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen.

“People were so happy we were there,” Connelly said.

“I think they were happy to see a state show up and deliver a message of, ‘We’re still here.’”

A few weeks later, Connelly and MDA Deputy Commissioner Andrea Vaubel traveled to Minnesota Soybean’s headquarters to meet with farmer leaders from the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council to discuss international marketing goals for 2026. Connelly and grower leaders engaged on current and future marketing efforts in Southeast Asia — Indonesia and Taiwan, for example — Europe, North Africa and South America.

“I’m thinking a lot about what we can do in this moment to continue bringing the message of Minnesota agriculture abroad,” she said. “I think globally there’s a lot of confusion about the future of trade. But I think it’s the relationships that matter, and I think most people feel that way regardless of where they fall politically. That’s how business gets done.”

Talking trade at the 2026 MN Ag Expo Jan. 20 @ 10:15 a.m. on the Litzau Farm Drainage Stage: Shifting Global Trade Flows: A CHS Perspective with CHS Jason Marthaler, VP oilseed product line.

MDA International Supervisor Christina Connelly (middle) visits with Minnesota Soybean leaders to discuss export goals for 2026.

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Jan. 21 @ 9 a.m. on the Litzau Farm Drainage Stage, featuring leaders from Canada and Mexico’s consulates and MDA Deputy Comm. Andrea Vaubel.

Moderated by MDA’s Christina Connelly.

2026

Monday, Jan. 19th - Wednesday, Jan. 21st, 2026 Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center Mankato, MN

MN AG

EXPO

MN Ag Expo is a jointly hosted event between the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association and the Minnesota Corn Growers Association. This multi-day event includes a jam-packed trade show, breakout sessions, keynote speakers, along with numerous networking opportunities with other farmers and industry leaders across the state.

Mankato

Set-up Day & Welcome Reception - Monday, Jan. 19

Room #

NOON - 6:30 PM

Exhibitor Set-up

Arena/Grand Hall

NOON - 6:30 PM

Registration Opens

Central Lobby

6:00 - 7:00 PM

Young & Emerging Farmers Reception

Ellerby Room

7:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Welcome Reception

Banquet Hall-Half

Day 2 - Wed., January 21 6:30 AM

Registration Opens

7:30 AM

Young & Emerging Farmers

Ellerby Room

7:45:00 AM

Early Riser Session

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

8:30 AM

Room #

Central Lobby

Trade Show Opens

Arena/Grand Hall

MCGA Delegate Session and Annual Meeting

Banquet Hall

9:00 AM

Learning Session IV

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

10:15 AM

Learning Session V

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

11:00 AM

Grain Bin Demonstration

Grand Hall - Safety

NOON

Lunch Keynote - Fish House Drawing

Banquet Hall

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Day 1 - Tues., January 20

Room #

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM

Exhibitor Set-up

Arena/Grand Hall

7:00 AM

Registration Opens

Central Lobby

7:30 AM

Young & Emerging Farmers

Ellerby Room

8:30 AM-12PM

MSGA Delegate Session and Annual Meeting

Banquet Hall

2:30 PM

Master Farmer Award Ceremony The Farmer/Progressive Farmer

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

3:00 PM

Trade Show Closes

Arena/Grand Hall

9:00 AM

Trade Show Opens

Arena/Grand Hall

9:00 AM

Learning Session I

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

10:00 AM

Grain Bin Safety Demonstration

Grand Hall - Safety

10:15 AM

Learning Session II

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

11:00 AM

Learning Session III

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

NOON

LUNCH

12:15 PM

Trade Show Stage Presentation

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

1:15 PM

Legislative Panel Session

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

2:30 PM

Grain Bin Safety Demonstration

Grand Hall - Safety

2:30 PM

Pivot Bio

Litzau Farm Drainage Stage

3:00 PM

Trade Show Reception

Arena

3:30 PM

MCGA Auction and Reception

2nd Floor Mezzanine

4:00 PM

Trade Show Closes

Arena/Grand Hall

5:00 PM

Dinner Keynote

Banquet Hall

MSGA After Hours Social

Loose Moose Saloon

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Agenda subject to change

Scan here for full agenda details!

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JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - 33

Leader of the pack: Rep. Steve Jacob talks MAWQCP reenrollment Few farmers have more experience in the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP) than Steve Jacob.

“Any way I can be involved to help do the right thing with the environment and keep regulations off farmers, that’s what I’m trying to accomplish,” Jacob said.

When MAWQCP launched a pilot program in 2014 in Winona County, Jacob found himself in the right place at the right time.

He’d been a member of his local Soil & Water Conservation Board and served as a county commissioner when he learned about MAWQCP through meetings with Program Manager Brad Jordahl Redlin.

Jacob admitted he was initially reluctant to enroll. But the more he learned about MAWQCP’s voluntary enrollment and its regulatory certainty, he found the initiative aligned with his passion for conservation.

“As I saw the true intent of MAWQCP and how it gives recognition to the good work the farmers do, I saw that it could be beneficial for farmers to engage with the process,” said Jacob, who in 2022 was elected to represent southeast Minnesota’s District 20B in the Minnesota House of the Representatives. “Willing participation is what we’re after.”

Jacob farms 300 acres of soybeans and corn in picturesque Altura and became just the sixth Minnesotan to enroll in MAWQCP. Since then, more than 1,700 Minnesota farmers have followed Jacob’s lead.

“I really didn’t have to do very much because I was already implementing all the practices needed to become Ag Water

Rep. Steve Jacob (left) was an early enrollee in MAWQCP. He’s now part of a class of farmers who are re-certifying after 10 years in the program.

34 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026

Quality Certified,” he said.

The Jacob family, which has been farming the same land for nearly 150 years, has a storied history of supporting conservation and soil health in an area vulnerable to flooding: In 1951, Steve’s dad and uncle were named Minnesota’s Soil Saver of the Year.

“We’re one of the first farms in the area to put in contour strips, erosion control structures, paddock pasturing,” Jacob said. “All the best management practices, we’ve been implementing as far back as these practices became available.”

Since becoming certified, he’s transitioned to 100% no-till.

After a decade, it was a no-brainer for Jacob to re-enroll his family farming operation in MAWQCP. “Our farm remains fertile and profitable when other farms had too much erosion and were not profitable,” said Jacob, who is transitioning the farm to his son, Trent, in 2026.

In his role on the agriculture and environmental committees, Rep. Jacob continues to promote MAWQCP. In 2024, he introduced legislation creating a $5 per acre tax credit for MAWQCP-enrolled farmers in eight counties in southeast Minnesota. He plans to reintroduce the bill in 2026, with longterm hopes of making the credit available statewide.

MAWQCP connects farmers with local conservation district experts to identify and mitigate any risks their farm poses to water quality on a field-by-field basis. Producers going through the certification process retain priority access to financial assistance. After being certified, each farm is considered in compliance with new water quality laws and regulations for 10 years. Certified farmers also receive a MAWQCP sign to display on their farm, along with other benefits.

“The sign is a stamp of approval to society that this farmer is not abusing the environment and implementing all the best management practices,” Jacob said. “We’re using the farm to take care of the environment.”

Farmers and landowners interested in joining Rep. Jacob in becoming water quality certified can contact their local Soil and Water Conservation District or visit MyLandMyLegacy.com to enroll and learn more about financial assistance programs.

Learn more about MAWQCP during the 2026 MN Ag Expo by visiting with our team in booth #12.

IT’S NOT JUST YOUR LAND. IT’S YOUR LEGACY. The Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program rewards farmers like you for what you do best, taking care of your land and its natural resources.

To get started and learn more, contact your local soil and water conservation district or go to:

MyLandMyLegacy.com

JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2024 - Soybean Business - 35

FROM YOUR FIELDS TO FIREFIGHTERS’ HANDS The more we discover about soybeans, the more valuable they become. One innovative product, SoyFoam™, creates a new, sustainable use for your crop that protects firefighters and the planet.

See how your Soy Checkoff is unlocking new markets for soybeans at unitedsoybean.org

36 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026 © 20 25 U NI TED SOY BEA N BOA R D

JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - 37

Council director named USB secretary Traverse County farmer Tom Frisch led the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) as chair for two years, helping to direct soy checkoff investments in research, value-added uses, developing new leaders and building markets. Now, after stepping down as Council chair in June 2025, Frisch is taking on a greater role with the United Soybean Board (USB) after being elected secretary during USB’s December board meeting in St. Louis.

“I’m really excited for the opportunity ahead this year to help my fellow farmers and our rural communities by investing in checkoff projects that can drive demand for our soybeans,” said Frisch, who will serve his second year on USB’s Executive Committee.

Frisch, in collaboration with new USB Chair Brent Gatton and 75 USB volunteer farmer leaders, will assist in overseeing FY26 investments and priorities across the market segments of food, feed, fuel, industrial uses, exports and sustainable production, which effectively grow demand for U.S. soy, drive on-farm resilience and bring value to the nearly half-million U.S. soybean farmers.

Patrick O’Leary, Gene Stoel and Lawrence Sukalski also represent Minnesota on USB. “I’m excited to see Tom’s leadership and vision being recognized by his farmer peers on USB,” MSR&PC CEO Tom Slunecka said. “I’m grateful for his commitment, along with the efforts of Tom’s Minnesota colleagues on USB, as we put our checkoff goals into action in 2026.”

Deadline nears to apply for Council election MSR&PC continues to seek a diverse set of candidates for the five seats up for election in 2026.

Seats up for election include: • District 1, 2 & 3 (currently seated by Bill Zurn) • District 4 (Patrick O’Leary) • District 5 & 6 (Pat Sullivan) • District 7 (Ron Obermoller) • District 8 (Rochelle Krusemark) Council directors have a direct impact on how checkoff funds are invested, including sponsoring research, building new markets both domestically and internationally; promoting new uses, communicating checkoff messaging and supporting the next generation of agriculture professionals and leaders. Three-year terms for each of the five Council seats begin July 1.

Interested candidates must be at least 18 years of age and a Minnesota soybean producer who directly shares in the profits and risk of loss from soybean production. Candidates must fill 38 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026

Minnesota Soybean News

out a candidate certification form and information form, and email completed forms to Melinda Roberts at melinda@mnsoybean.com, or mail completed forms to the Minnesota Soybean office no later than Jan. 26. Forms can be found online at mnsoybean.org/msrpc. Ballots will be mailed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture on March 16, and all ballots must be postmarked by April 1.

MSGA director elected to American Soybean Association executive committee Jamie Beyer is primed to shine on the national soy advocacy stage.

During its annual election meeting in St. Louis, the American Soybean Association (ASA) Board of Directors voted in the executive committee members who will lead ASA through the coming year’s top advocacy priorities, including the farm economy, biofuels, inputs, trade, markets and other critical policy issues for U.S. soybean farmers.

Beyer, an ASA director since 2021, will serve as an at-large member of ASA’s executive committee.

“I am excited to level up my advocacy for Minnesota soybean farmers in Washington, D.C.,” Beyer said. “There is no shortage of ag-related issues in the national conversation, and I look forward to working with the rest of the team at ASA.” Beyer grows soybeans, corn, sugarbeets and alfalfa in Wheaton with her husband, Rodd, and their three daughters. She has represented Traverse County on the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) since 2015.

From 2019-2021, Beyer served as MSGA president.

Beyer and her farmer colleagues will convene in March for ASA’s spring Hill Visits and board meetings in Washington, D.C.

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JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - 39

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FACES OF MSGA

By Allison Wright

Steve Commerford Rooted in Brown County, Steve Commerford has dedicated his career to advancing research, environmental stewardship and agricultural education.

Growing up on a dairy farm north of St. Cloud, Commerford developed an early passion for agriculture that has guided his career for more than 40 years. After earning his master’s degree in Crops and Soils from the University of Minnesota, he began his work as an independent crop consultant in the early 1980s, a role he continues to hold.

Commerford’s involvement with Minnesota Soybean began with a part-time contract position focused on environmental issues and research coordination. In addition, he’s a loyal member of MSGA and has continued managing the Brown County Corn and Soybean Growers’ crop plots since 1992.

During his nine years serving as an MSGA director, one of Commerford’s most significant accomplishments was helping to establish and secure legislative funding for the Agricultural Fertilizer Research and Education Council (AFREC). This work has generated vital resources for soil fertility, fertilizer research and hiring more positions for researchers at the University of Minnesota.

“I’ve always tried to encourage farmers and professionals in the ag community to be involved because they are the ones that can be helpful to correct misperceptions,” Commerford said. “With my technical background as an ag professional, I got involved to help make sure that good science is behind environmental policies that impact agriculture and not just someone’s opinion.”

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Colton Arends Family, farming and community are the center of Colton Arends’s life. Arends grew up on his family’s farm in Rock County, where he now works alongside his dad raising soybeans, corn and pigs.

After earning his degree in Agricultural Business from South Dakota State University, Arends returned home to continue the next chapter of the family operation with his wife and two kids.

Arends has served on the Rock County Corn and Soybean Growers Board for the past three years and is an active MSGA member. He values the opportunity to connect with community members, organize local events and share his farming story with people outside of agriculture.

“I just like to be involved,” Arends said.

One of the most rewarding parts of serving, Arends said, is the chance to advocate for policies that genuinely support farmers. He sees engagement in organizations like MSGA as essential for staying informed, influencing policy and keeping the right voices at the table.

“I would suggest that more younger people get involved with some of these programs because without it our life is going to be a lot harder.

Involvement is key,” Arends said. “It worries me when we go to ag meetings or anything ag-related, looking around in the room, there is not a lot of young people involved, and I think half the reason is that it is just so hard to get involved or get started farming.”

See how far your soybeans can go.

At CHS, we don’t just believe in taking what grows in your fields and connecting it to markets around the world. We deliver. Contact CHS or your local grain originator to explore delivery options for your grain.

Learn more at chsag.com/soybeans.

© 2025 CHS Inc.

Soy is leading the play.

Visit MN Soybean’s booth #17 in the ice arena at MN Ag Expo.

44 - SOYBEAN BUSINESS - JANUARY - FEBRUARY - 2026