Through the soy checkoff, U.S. soybean farmers are investing in new production practices to continuously improve their sustainability while protecting the air, water and soil for generations to come.
OHIO’S UNIQUE
and rich soils allow us to produce high-quality agricultural products that are in demand worldwide. To boost global trade, Ohio hosted four international trade teams this summer, showcasing the quality of our soybeans and strengthening market opportunities. e Ohio Soybean Association and Ohio Soybean Council actively collaborate to expand Ohio’s global presence and increase demand for our premium soy. Learn more about these
on pages 24-25.
IRusty Goebel
Ohio Soybean Association President Williams County farmer
A Letter From the President
f you’ve ever engaged in policy work, you know it takes a lot of time and effort to get legislation across the finish line. We’ve certainly seen that with this latest Farm Bill, which still has not passed as I’m writing this column. Here’s hoping a lame duck session will motivate Congress to get it done! The good news is that we’re never alone in working toward our policy goals. This issue of Ohio Soybean News is all about the partnerships our state organizations — the Ohio Soybean Association (OSA) and the Ohio Soybean Council (OSC) — share with other agricultural groups. This collaboration was recently on display when OSA joined a coalition of 11 agriculture groups to file a Motion to Intervene in a lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that began earlier this year by the Environmental Law and Policy Center (ELPC), the Board of Lucas County Commissioners and the City of Toledo. In the lawsuit, ELPC alleges that the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) of nutrients such as phosphorus into the Western Lake Erie Basin, set by the EPA, is insufficient to meet both Ohio and federal water quality standards.
Enough was enough. In addition to OSA, thank you to the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association, Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association, Ohio Dairy Producers Association, Ohio Farm Bureau, Ohio Pork Council, Ohio Poultry Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Corn Growers Association, National Pork Producers Council and United Egg Producers. Our decision to intervene in this lawsuit will make a real difference for Ohio farmers.
With all this emphasis on partnership, I want to remind all our readers that they are never alone. We experienced a horrible drought in our state this year. Our industry relies on decent weather to make a living, so, naturally, 2024 has been tough on everyone. If you are in need of mental health support, I strongly encourage you to explore the resources on the opposite page and know that you are not alone. Our industry is stronger together, but we can only be this strong when we look out for one another.
Wishing you all a safe and joyful holiday season!
President
Rusty Goebel, Williams County
Vice President
Bennett Musselman, Pickaway County
Treasurer
Trish Cunningham, Union County
Secretary
Je Magyar, Ashtabula County
Chairman
Patrick Knou , Shelby County
Trustees
David Clark, Warren County
Dustin Converse, Union County
Dave Green, Crawford County
Austin Heil, Hardin County
Scott Metzger, Ross County
Jeremy Price, Putnam County
Derek Reusser, Wayne County
Ryan Rhoades, Marion County
Andy Stickel, Wood County
Bob Suver, Clark County
Kerrick Wilson, Preble County
Jennifer Wilson-Oechsle, Van Wert County
American Soybean Association
Board Representatives
Rusty Goebel
Scott Metzger
Ryan Rhoades
Sta Credits
Kirk Merritt - Publisher
Julia Brown - Editor
Mackenzie Joseph - Sta Writer
Brent Warren - Art Director
Barry Falkner - Photo Quality/Proofer
Ohio Soybean News is published six times a year by the Ohio Soybean Association, 918 Proprietors Rd., Suite A, Worthington, OH 43085. Phone: 614-476-3100.
Comments and statewide news articles should be sent to the above address. Advertising space reservation must be made by the rst of the month preceding publication. In consideration of the acceptance of advertisement, the agency and the advertiser must, in respect of the contents of the advertisement, indemnify and save the publisher harmless against any expense arising from claims or actions against the publisher because of the publication of the content of the advertisement.
For Advertising Sales Contact:
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For Address Corrections Contact: Ohio Soybean News at 918 Proprietors Rd., Suite A, Worthington, OH 43085.
Web address: www.soyohio.org
Rusty Goebel
E-mail: cdeboard@soyohio.org
RESOURCES FOR MENTAL HEALTH HELP
If you or someone you know is suicidal or in emotional distress, call 988.
988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code for the national suicide and crisis lifeline. People can now call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org if they are in crisis or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support, which can include having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis.
#SoyHelp - American Soybean Association
ASA and other soy groups are devoted to the wellbeing of farmers – including combating farm stress so often experienced by growers and their families.
Visit: shorturl.at/KsfVW
The #gotyourback campaign was designed to let farmers know that there is help and resources for those going through stressful times.
Visit: gotyourbackohio.org
OSU Extension is partnering with other agricultural groups to offer new programs and resources to help farmers and farm families as they go through stressful times.
Visit: shorturl.at/6rlvF
Rural Minds is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission to serve as the informed voice for mental health in rural America and to provide mental health information and resources.
Visit: www.ruralminds.org/you-are-not-alone
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A Closer Look at State Issue 1
State Issue 1, a statewide ballot initiative to amend Ohio’s Constitution, would once again change how legislative districts are drawn in Ohio. The proposal will be on the ballot during the upcoming November 5th election. The Ohio Soybean Association has committed itself to educating its members about this new initiative.
Under State Issue 1, a new commission established with 15 members: five Republicans, five Democrats, and five individuals who are independents or members of other political parties would draw legislative districts. There are a number of restrictions on who could serve on the commission including public officeholders and their family members.
The ballot measure would create a screening panel of four retired judges, two Republicans and two Democrats, to review and screen applicants interested in serving as members of the commission. The screening panel would be required to consider commission applicants’ “qualifications, conflicts of interest, party affiliation, relevant experiences and skills, community ties, and commitment to impartiality, compromise, and fairness.”
The Ohio Soybean Association (OSA) board of directors discussed the constitutional amendment at its September meeting. OSA President and Williams County farmer Rusty Goebel said among the
concerns discussed was out-of-state interests backing the proposal and requirements placed on how districts are drawn that could erode the voice of rural Ohioans.
“Most of our farmer board members agreed the current system isn’t perfect, but there were some concerns about the specifics of this new proposal,” Goebel
SCAN FOR OHIO STATE WEBSITE
said. “The requirement that districts be drawn based on past statewide political preferences is arbitrary and would lead to odd-shaped districts without regard for keeping voters in the same counties and similar communities together.”
While OSA leaders agreed it is a good idea to consider models that allow individuals other than current officeholders to have more say in the process, State Issue 1 presented too many issues to gain the organization’s support. Goebel noted that Governor DeWine has pointed to a model used in Iowa as an alternative to the proposal under State Issue 1.
The Iowa redistricting process is led by that state’s nonpartisan legislative services agency. The Iowa law prohibits individual counties from being split into multiple legislative or congressional districts. The Iowa law also specifically highlights what factors should not be taken into consideration, including favoritism for a political party or an incumbent office holder.
You can read the full language of the State Issue 1 ballot proposal by visiting the Ohio Secretary of State’s website at https://bit.ly/4ekdDEg
BECOME A LEADER IN YOUR FIELD
The Field Leader program from the Ohio Soybean Council and the soybean checko keeps you informed about the latest technologies, trends and research in the field, all in an e ort to keep your operation moving forward and to help you become a leader in your field.
by
FRIEND OF OSA: $50
Subscriptions to Ohio
Soybean News and Ohio’s Country Journal
Monthly Leader Letter enewsletter
EXCLUSIVE retail discounts from Sofia’s Soy Cleaner, Gear Head Fifth Wheel Grease Pads and RoofMaxx
STUDENT/ YOUNG ADULT: $10
Includes all Friend of OSA
Benefits, plus eligibility for $1,000 OSA Scholarship. This three-year membership offer is open to any individual ages 18-24. Date of birth is required on all applications to confirm eligibility.
MEMBER BENEFITS
FARMER 1-YEAR: $100
Includes Friend of OSA benefits, plus:
Biodiesel Bucks – save up to $100 on biodiesel at participating retailers
2 free Ohio State University
SCN soil tests ($80 value)
Eligible for $1,000 OSA
Scholarship (eligibility includes OSA members and their children and grandchildren)
American Soybean Association membership & benefits
$100 Commodity Classic
Registration Discount
Eligible for $5,000 Soy Scholarship
Cabela’s Gift Card Purchase 10% discount
MEMBER
FARMER 3-YEAR: $285
Includes Farmer 1-Year Membership benefits, plus: BAMWX – Save $400 a year on the BAM Ag
Weather Package ($1,200 savings)
Soybean Seed Coupon –Save $200 at participating companies (100 bag minimum)
American Soybean Association membership & benefits
$100 Commodity Classic
Registration Discount
Eligible for $5,000 Soy Scholarship
Cabela’s Gift Card
Purchase 10% discount
Detach and Mail to
OSA Applauds Lawmakers Protecting Domestic Biofuels Feedstocks
The Ohio Soybean Association (OSA) applauds the bipartisan group of lawmakers who are proposing an extension to the 45Z tax credit for low-carbon biofuels for 10 years. The new measure would also reserve the incentive for products derived from domestic feedstocks, including soybean oil. The group includes Ohio lawmakers Sen. Sherrod Brown, who is co-sponsoring the measure in the Senate, and Rep. Marcy Kaptur, who is co-sponsoring a companion bill in the House.
The 45Z credit is set to take effect in January and would expire at the end of 2027. The value of the credit is determined based on the carbon intensity of the fuel produced and is not currently limited to domestic feedstocks. The USDA currently expects 14 billion pounds of soybean oil to be used for biofuel production in 2024–2025.
“Thank you to Sen. Brown and Rep. Kaptur for leading the way on this issue,” said Rusty Goebel, OSA president and Williams County soybean farmer. “While the use of foreign feedstocks can play a role in producing domestically manufactured biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel, the American taxpayerfunded 45Z tax credit should only apply to biofuels produced from domestic feedstocks by domestic fuel producers.”
This legislation comes on the heels of a proposed cap on soybean oil for biofuels that qualify for California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, which was announced in August. These restrictions in addition to the current 45Z tax credit structure could significantly hamper
soybean oil’s inclusion in biofuel production and negatively impact an already down farm economy.
According to Clean Fuels
Alliance America, biofuels account for 13 percent of the bushel price of soybeans, making it a vital domestic market for soybean oil.
WISHH leverages partnerships for U.S. Soy to help meet the protein needs of 8 billion consumers
The United Soybean Board— Looking towards 2025
In July 2024, the United Soybean Board (USB) held its annual board meeting in Baltimore, Maryland, where discussions centered on strategic investments and innovations for the future of the soybean industry. The event kicked off with a leadership strategy session, followed by the finalization of portfolio investments for the fiscal year 2025 (FY25).
“This year, we anticipate a dip in revenue as the funds from soybean check-off programs align with fluctuating soybean prices," said Steve Reinhard, an Ohio soybean farmer and Chairman of the USB. "We’re focusing on strategic decisions to ensure we maximize the return on investment (ROI) for the soybean farmers who contribute to the check-off.”
A key part of the meeting involved updates from researchers on previously funded projects. These included breakthroughs in improving soybean resilience—such as enhancing test weight, drought tolerance, flood resistance and heat adaptability. Discussions also touched on reputational management for the industry.
Reinhard highlighted a presentation by Dr. Rachel Vann from North Carolina State Extension on the Science for Success initiative, which focuses on maximizing soybean yields through methods like early planting. Dr. Laura Lindsey from Ohio State University is also collaborating on this project.
Another significant presentation came from Dr. Kathrine Drake Stow, Director of the U.S. Soybean Research Collaborative, who emphasized the importance of collaboration to avoid duplicating research efforts, ensuring optimal use of available resources.
The USB continues to prioritize ROI for farmers. “Currently, for every dollar invested by farmers in the check-off program, the return is $12.34,” said Reinhard. "Looking ahead to FY25, there are several promising projects under consideration. These include innovative technology developments, health and nutrition advancements for both animal and human consumption, and critical infrastructure improvements to strengthen transportation systems."
Transportation infrastructure was a major focus of the meeting. “Given that we’re here in Baltimore, and with the significant bridge
collapse earlier this year, Mike Steenhoek, Executive Director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, led a panel discussion on the crucial role of infrastructure,” Reinhard noted. "Baltimore is a key port for Midwestern soybean exports, especially for shipments to Europe. Any disruption in infrastructure, like that recent collapse, can cause severe delays, highlighting the need for robust and resilient transportation systems."
As the soybean industry looks to 2025 and beyond, the USB's emphasis on strategic investments, research, and infrastructure will be vital in maintaining a strong ROI for soybean farmers and ensuring the industry’s global competitiveness.
Steve Reinhard, Ohio Soybean Farmer and Chairman of the United Soybean Board
Watching Waterhemp for Resistance and Integrated Control Strategies
By Laura Temple
Waterhemp has become a major weed problem in Ohio soybean fields. Like much of the Midwest, poor control of this pigweed species is becoming more common in central and western Ohio.
“Waterhemp has really taken off,” says Alyssa Essman, assistant professor of weed science at Ohio State University. “In our preharvest surveys, we used to evaluate all pigweeds together, but we’ve seen so much waterhemp in recent years.”
With support from the Ohio Soybean Council, Essman is leading a team determining the distribution and frequency of waterhemp and screening populations in soybeans for herbicide resistance. Her team is also exploring how cover crops and herbicides work together as management options.
“Farmers need best management practices and more control options for this problem weed,” she says. “This research is improving our ability to serve as a waterhemp management resource.”
SURVEYING AND VISUALIZING WATERHEMP DISTRIBUTION
Essman’s team drives through the
top soybean-producing counties in Ohio just before harvest to monitor waterhemp and other problem weeds. Observing weeds still in fields at that time highlights potential problems for the next season.
“We conduct this preharvest weed survey from mid-September through early October,” she explains. “We look for patterns in fields that indicate control issues like sprayer skips or poor herbicide control.”
The team provides visual ratings for waterhemp, marestail, ragweed, Palmer amaranth, redroot pigweed and other weeds. These ratings are translated into a Preharvest Weeds Survey Map showing weed pressure at the county level to help farmers plan for the next season.
COMPREHENSIVE HERBICIDE RESISTANCE SCREENING
Essman’s team collects waterhemp seed from fields with suspected herbicide resistance for lab screening.
“At this point, we assume all waterhemp populations in Ohio have resistance to ALS inhibitors and glyphosate,” Essman says.
ALS inhibitors include herbicides like imazethapyr in Pursuit and thifensulfuron in Harmony. Her team screens for resistance to four other herbicide classes used in soybeans and corn, including Groups 5, 14, 15 and 27 herbicides.
In collaboration with other researchers, Essman also screens for resistance to Group 4 synthetic auxins like 2,4-D and dicamba, as well as glufosinate, the active ingredient in Liberty.
EXPLORING SYNERGIES BETWEEN COVER CROPS AND HERBICIDE PROGRAMS
Essman’s research includes proactive waterhemp management. Her team is exploring how cover crops and herbicide programs reduce waterhemp density and seedbanks in a soybean-corn rotation.
“Our trial explores how cereal rye cover crops work with herbicide programs over multiple years,” she explains.
The plots compare the effects of different cover crop termination timings and herbicide programs, measuring the association between cover crop biomass, waterhemp density, herbicide efficacy, and crop yield.
The materials on Soybean Research and Information Network (SRIN) were funded with checkoff dollars from United Soybean Board and the North Central Soybean Research Program. To find checkoff funded research related to this research highlight, or to see other checkoff research projects, please visit the National Soybean Checkoff Research Database at https://www.soybeanresearchdata. com/Project.aspx?id=55245
Waterhemp is becoming a more common problem in Ohio soybean fields and across the Midwest.
Case Study: Partners Deliver Fresh and Safe Fish to Cambodian School Meal Program
Cambodian children in 77 schools are benefiting from fresh, nutritious and safe fish in their meals thanks to leadership and cooperation that fosters a successful model for locally raised fish to nourish even more children. As a result of the extensive networking and business matching effort, wholesalers and school suppliers signed 16 contracts to provide part of the protein (fresh fish) component for approximately 11,400 children’s meals over four months (January to April 2024). Three fish species (pangasius, striped snakehead and walking catfish) pair well with local vegetables and supply high-quality nutrition. Schools source and serve locally available fish protein at an approximate per-student cost of 353 Khmer riels (8.7 cents) per meal.
MANY PROGRAMS INVOLVED
The initiative bridges two U.S. Department of Agriculturesupported programs, the Cambodian Aquaculturist Association (CAA), Cambodia’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Agriculture, as well as local school officials and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP). The USDA Food for Progress Program funds the Commercialization of
Aquaculture for Sustainable Trade (CAST)-Cambodia project. The American Soybean Association’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (ASA/WISHH) implements CAST in alignment with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s Strategic Plan for Aquaculture Development. CAST accelerates production of high-demand fish species for the Cambodian market, develops a lasting aquaculture industry and promotes Cambodianraised fish. World Vision Cambodia is a partner with both ASA/WISHH on CAST as well as with the WFP on its USDA McGovernDole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program.
MAJOR GROWTH PLANNED
The CAA is helping foster dialogue and is supporting the WFP and
Programs from around the world are helping Cambodian children benefit from fresh, nutritious and safe fish in their meals.
the Ministry of Education in their goal planning to take the fish-for-school meals program to additional provinces. CAA’s members, both women and men, are leaders to continue coordinating and following this demonstration among CAA’s membership, development partners and the Cambodian government since CAA also has a role in policy advocacy. CAST is training farmers to be eligible for certification for Cambodian Good Aquaculture Practices and food safety standards. Cambodia’s goal is to see this aquaculture quality and safety program go nationwide.
There is a relentless spirit that unites us all in agriculture - a conviction we can dream big and that together, we become unstoppable.
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
Proverbs 27:17 NIV
Donnie Wahlberg Teams Up with Clean Fuels Alliance America to Drive Awareness for Bioheat® Fuel
In a groundbreaking collaboration, entertainment icon Donnie Wahlberg and Clean Fuels create a powerful campaign from January to June 2024 to raise awareness about the transformative benefits of Bioheat® fuel.
Acclaimed actor and Boston native Donnie Wahlberg joined forces with Clean Fuels Alliance America in a dynamic campaign to raise awareness about Bioheat® fuel, an eco-friendly and sustainable home heating solution derived from plants, including soybeans. Wahlberg, known for his deep ties to the Boston community, is excited to champion this initiative, reconnecting with his roots and promoting a cleaner future for the Northeast.
Bioheat® fuel is a renewable energy source that blends traditional heating oil with biodiesel, significantly reducing carbon emissions and environmental impact. Wahlberg’s partnership with Clean Fuels is driven by a shared commitment to promoting sustainable energy solutions and fostering environmental responsibility.
“We are honored and excited to have Donnie Wahlberg join forces with Clean Fuels in our mission to promote sustainable energy solutions,” said Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “Donnie’s involvement adds a powerful voice to our campaign, bringing attention to the positive impact of Bioheat® fuel on both a local and global scale. We believe that
together, we can inspire positive change and encourage individuals to make the switch to cleaner, more sustainable heating options.”
“I have two sons. When they come to Boston to visit my family, and they see that big oil tank in the basement, they are like, ‘What
even though I don’t look it, but I care, and I’m doing my part to help protect their future and their children’s future, and that means everything to me.”
Visit mybioheat.com to learn state-specific information about the benefits of Bioheat® fuel. The site also offers resources, educational materials and details on how individuals can make the switch to Bioheat® fuel for their heating needs. Visit ussoy.org to learn about how soy empowers sustainable solutions in food, feed, fuel and as alternatives to industrial ingredients formerly derived from fossil fuels.
ABOUT CLEAN FUELS ALLIANCE AMERICA
is this?’ How great is it that I can now tell them, ‘You know what’s in there, vegetable oil,’” said Wahlberg. “It’s changing right under our noses, we just have to realize that it’s right there. To know that my kids know that I am from an older generation,
Made from an increasingly diverse mix of resources such as recycled cooking oil, soybean oil, and animal fats, the clean fuels industry is a proven, integral part of America’s clean energy future. Clean Fuels Alliance America is the U.S. trade association representing the entire biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel supply chain, including producers, feedstock suppliers and fuel distributors. Clean Fuels receives funding from a broad mix of private companies and associations, including the United Soybean Board and state checkoff organizations.
Donnie Wahlberg visits his childhood home in Dorchester, Massachusetts.
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Finding Global Trade Opportunities for Ohio Soybeans through Trade Team Visits
This summer, the Ohio Soybean Council (OSC) hosted several international trade teams, eager to explore Ohio's soybean market and its commitment to sustainability. In collaboration with the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), which works to expand access to U.S. soybeans in over 80 countries, Ohio’s farmers showcased their soybeans as a premier choice for global buyers. These meetings highlighted Ohio's leadership in sustainable agriculture, paving the way for future trade opportunities.
BUILDING BRIDGES WITH JAPAN AND GREATER CHINA
In late August, Ohio welcomed separate delegations from Japan and Greater China, two
important markets for soy-based food products. These visits were coordinated for when international soybean buyers would be in country for the U.S. Soybean Export Council’s Soy Connext conference. This conference aims to connect the US Soy value chain with international customers to maximize the utilization and access of US Soy around the world. OSC representatives were able to connect with international buyers
and talk about the value and quality of Ohio soybeans.
Once in Ohio, the Japanese delegation toured specialty soybean export facilities, such as Scoular in Covington, KG Agri Products in Marysville, and Bluegrass Farms of Ohio in Jeffersonville. Additionally, the team visited OSC board member and Franklin County farmer David Black's farm, where he shared insights into his farming practices and specialty soybeans.
EU Sustainability Team visits Ohio Soybean Farmers Andy Stickel and Steve Reinhard.
Japanese Trade Delegates at David Black’s farm
Later, a delegation from Greater China arrived to further explore sourcing options for Ohio soybeans. This group, composed of soy food manufacturers and traders, was particularly interested in Ohio’s on-farm practices and sustainability initiatives. Both delegations engaged with the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) and visited The Ohio State University’s McHale Breeding Lab, deepening their understanding of Ohio’s agricultural research and innovation. These tours highlighted Ohio’s capabilities in supplying soybeans for tofu and other soy-based foods. Exporting these soybeans brings a premium to the Ohio farmers who grow them.
agricultural practices designed to promote long-term sustainability.
The delegation also explored Ohio’s H2Ohio program, which focuses on improving water quality through conservation strategies. Visits to OSC Board Member and USB Chair Steve Reinhard's operation and Airable Lab allowed the team to learn about cutting edge research in soybean sustainability and Ohio's commitment to advancing environmentally responsible agriculture.
Masters program, provided an update on Ohio’s soybean crop.
In addition to farm tours, the Korean team visited exporters like Scoular and KG Agri Products, gaining insights into the export process and quality control systems for Ohio soybeans. Their visit concluded with meetings at ODA to discuss sustainability programs, followed by local market visits to explore soy-based products available in Ohio’s food landscape.
SHOWCASING SUSTAINABILITY TO THE EU
In mid-September, Ohio’s sustainable farming practices were on full display when the European Sustainability Team visited. The team’s focus was on learning how Ohio integrates conservation and environmentally-friendly practices into soybean production.
The team had the opportunity to visit OSA Board Member Andy and Erin Stickel's operation in Bowling Green, Ohio, to talk about their diverse operation and ways they are planning for future generations.
Their visit to Stateler Farms in McComb, Ohio, highlighted the farm’s work with the Blanchard Demo Farms project, a collaboration funded by the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF) and the USDA. This project emphasizes water management and innovative
The visit concluded with presentations from researchers at The Ohio State University, focused on soil health and livestock methane mitigation methods. They also learned about the history of the land grant university and help farmers receive from the extension program.
KOREA SOY FOOD MASTERS: A TASTE OF OHIO SOYBEANS
Ohio also welcomed 14 Korean delegates as part of the Korea Soy Food Master’s program, sponsored by the Ohio Soybean Checkoff. The program brought together professionals involved in soy-based food manufacturing, like tofu, soy milk and miso, to explore how Ohio’s soybeans could enhance their products.
The week-long tour included farm visits and educational programming at The Ohio State University. Delegates visited Chad Warner’s farm in Arcanum and David Black’s farm in Orient, where they learned about soybean cultivation, drought impacts and Ohio’s focus on sustainable farming practices. Warner, who had previously traveled to Korea in June 2024 to build business relationships with this group for completing the Food
“Overall, this trade team season was a success, our farmers and industry partners made that possible,” says Madison Corbi, manager of market development with OSC. “We can travel and talk to buyers about Ohio’s farming operations but showing them the soybean plant in the ground adds another level of trust in Ohio’s ability to supply a high quality and sustainable product.”
Through international trade visits, including delegations from Japan, Greater China, Korea and the EU, Ohio farmers and exporters have been able to strengthen relationships with buyers while demonstrating the value of their soybeans. These interactions not only highlight Ohio’s unique production capabilities and environmentally conscious practices but also help forge lasting connections. As global demand for high-quality, sustainably produced soy continues to grow, Ohio remains at the forefront, leveraging these partnerships to expand its reach and open new markets.
Thank you to everyone who made these visits a success!
Greater China Team at Scoular Grain
Korea Soy Foods Masters Team visits Ohio Department of Agriculture and Chad Warner’s operation.
WOSCF Scholarship Spotlight
e recently caught up with three outstanding Ohio Soybean Council Foundation (OSCF) scholarship recipients, each pursuing unique career paths deeply connected to the soybean industry. Rachel Barrett, Clint Johnson and Ryanna Tietje share how their agricultural roots and educational experiences have shaped their career goals and deepened their connection to soybeans. From food science and organic chemistry to hands-on farm management, these young leaders highlight the importance of innovation, research and the future success of the soybean industry. Here's a glimpse into their journeys and how an OSCF scholarship has impacted their professional development.
Rachel Barrett 2023-2024 Undergraduate Winner
What career are you pursuing?
“I am pursuing a career as a Food Scientist. After graduation from The Ohio State University, I began
working for General Mills, Inc. as an R&D Scientist in the Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition.”
Why is the soybean industry important to you?
“I feel deeply rooted in the soybean industry as I grew up walking soybean fields on my family’s fifth generation farm where we have grown soybeans for seed for over forty years. I also see soybeans as an opportunity for innovation and growth in both the food and soybean industry.”
Clint
Johnson
2024-2025 Undergraduate Winner
What career are you pursuing?
“I am pursuing a career as an organic chemist with hopes of doing research. I have a background in agriculture (I run and operate a hay farm at home) which inspired me to take an internship with Airable Research Lab, a company that does research with soybeans and was started by the Ohio Soybean Council.”
What inspired you to apply for this scholarship?
“It was doing research chemistry at Airable where I really fell in love with chemistry and also found a passion for developing soy based products. The combination of doing soy research and growing up around numerous soy farms
sparked my interest in the soybean industry and encouraged me to apply for the scholarship.”
Ryanna Tietje 2023-2024 Undergraduate Winner
What career are you pursuing?
“I have returned home to my family farm in Deshler, Ohio. I am enjoying the opportunity to play an active role in the day-to-day operations while learning and sharing my perspective to improve efficiency.”
Why is the soybean industry important to you?
“My family farm grows corn, soybeans and wheat. The success of the soybean industry is vital to the success of the operation. I was honored to receive a scholarship that allowed me to further my education while diversifying my understanding within the industry and developing into a stronger asset for the farm and industry!”
For information on how to apply for the 2025-2026 Ohio Soybean Council Foundation Scholarship, see page 23 or visit www.soyohio.org/OSCF
