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CONTENTS TABLE OF

4 President’s Foreword: New views

8 ‘Wait and see’: Following election, WSA plots path for 2025

2 Finding his voice: Brad Sennhenn starts ASA’s Young Leader Program

6 ‘Why I Farm’: Strength in Steffes

0 Soy unity: WI farmers bring input to national level

4 Between the Rows: Tanner Johnson elected to ASA’s executive committee

6 2025 Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo On-site Program

0 ‘Weather nerd’ Eric Snodgrass brings new atmosphere to Corn·Soy Expo

2 Bushel of laughs: Greg Warren’s farm-friendly comedy

4 The power of innovation: Breakout session uncovers soy’s new uses

8 Tariff damage: Trade panel to highlight dangers of trade wars

About the Cover

Featuring a full trade show floor, along with one of the nation’s top meteorologists and a comedian with a knack for farm-related humor, the 2025 Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo is pulling out all the stops to provide producers opportunities to succeed in the year ahead.

Browse the On-site Program starting on page 26!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Board members from across the state represent the voices of Wisconsin soybean growers to advocate for government policies and support research that helps improve the profitability of soybean farmers.

Sara is currently serving in her second term as WSA president, representing District 2. She operates a diverse farming operation that includes soybeans, corn, peas, green beans and cattle in Wautoma. She also represents Wisconsin on the United Soybean Board.

Sara Daniel Tanner Don Doug Matt Stelter Linse Johnson Lutz Rebout Rehberg

Daniel represents District 1 and serves as WSA secretary. He grows a mix of soybeans and corn with his father on his farm in Mondovi. Along with crops, the Linses also raise turkeys.

Doug serves as vice president on WSA’s officer team, representing District 3. He raises soybeans, corn and wheat in Janesville alongside his brothers and nephews.

Matt serves as treasurer on the WSA officer team and represents District 3. A firstgeneration farmer, he raises soybeans, corn and wheat on his operation in Darien.

Tanner is a first-generation farmer from Prairie Farm. He is an at-large director for WSA and serves on the American Soybean Association (ASA) executive committee. Tanner is also a 2017 graduate of ASA’s Young Leader Program.

Don farms in the Central Sands region in Scandinavia, where he grows soybeans and corn with his brother and nephew. He is an at-large director for WSA and serves on ASA’s board.

WSA Executive Director Adam Kask akask@wisoybean.org (608) 274-7522

Sr. Director of Integrated Marketing

Doug Monson doug@agmgmtsolutions.com

Art Director

Alex Troska atroska@agmgmtsolutions.com

Managing Editor Drew Lyon drew@agmgmtsolutions.com

Layout Editors

Kaelyn Rahe krahe@agmgmtsolutions.com

Sales Manager Erin Rossow erossow@agmgmtsolutions.com (507)-902-9191

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Steve is a past WSA president who currently represents District 1. He farms primarily soybeans and corn in the central Wisconsin area near Amherst.

Katie Jake Danny Steve Dr. Shawn Dave Kaczor Steffes Brisky Trzebiatowski Conley Coggins

Dr. Conley is a professor of agronomy and the soybean and small grains specialist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Shawn is WSA’s representative on the board for the University of Wisconsin’s College of Agricultural & Life Sciences.

Katie was elected in 2024 as an industry director for WSA. She is the district sales manager for Legacy Seeds and resides in De Pere, representing District 4.

Jake farms in Mineral Point and serves as a WSA at-large director. He graduated from ASA’s Young Leader Program in 2023 and participated in the program’s third phase in Washington, D.C.

Dave is a recently retired banker with a lifetime of experience in both agricultural and commercial lending. He joined the WSA board in 2023 as an industry representative.

Danny grows soybeans and corn near Columbus with his three uncles. He completed ASA’s Young Leader Program in 2024 an is an-large WSA director. Danny also works as a crop insurance agent, is involved Astico Perseverance 4-H club and is a soil health advocate.

Sara Stelter

President’s Foreword

Like clockwork, the new year has arrived.

It seems like just yesterday we were planting our 2024 crop, and now our equipment is tucked away, waiting until the snow melts come spring to be put back to work. But before the fields pull our soybean growers into the cab, it’s time to take a collective breath, reflect on 2024 and make a game plan for 2025.

Similarly, the Wisconsin Soybean Association (WSA) is gearing up for 2025 and has exciting plans in our playbook. First up? Wisconsin’s premier grower event – the Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo! With an agenda full of educational breakout sessions and panels, the Kalahari Conference Center from Feb. 6-7 will be the place where crucial industry conversations are taking place. In addition to the many learning and networking opportunities, you won’t want to miss our keynote speakers, self-proclaimed “weather nerd” Eric Snodgrass and comedian Greg Warren.

And remember – WSA members earn a reduced Corn·Soy Expo registration rate. Membership is the lifeblood of WSA because checkoff dollars cannot be used for our advocacy efforts. Along with fundraising dollars, membership funds drive our soy mission forward. If you aren’t a member already, please consider investing in WSA. And, if you’ve already joined, thank you for trusting us to tell your story and fight for farm-friendly policies.

The new year comes with a fresh set of challenges and opportunities for farm organizations to address. As a new legislative session dawns, it’s critical that we consistently meet with state and national legislators, both new and incumbent. Change starts with communication. Our legislators don’t know what they don’t know, which is why WSA strives to be a key source of information. And, with so many unknowns looming in front of Wisconsin soybean growers, it’s important we amplify our voice. One way that happens is when growers across Wisconsin reach out to legislators and talk about how public policies are affecting their farming operations. When you have a few minutes, please reach out to your representatives. One phone call can have a significant impact.

While phone calls go a long way, face-to-face visits are instrumental in cultivating healthy working relationships with lawmakers. This spring, we anticipate participating in a “Day on the Hill” event with Wisconsin farmers, along with biofuels experts, to meet with our state representatives. WSA members are invited to attend, so if you’re interested, please keep it in the back of your mind. More information will be forthcoming.

Throughout the winter, please visit our website, www. wisoybean.org, and watch the latest videos on our social media pages to engage with all things soy!

Have a wonderful start to your 2025. With a little luck, I’ll see you in February at the Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo.

Sara Stelter WSA President

wisoybean.org/wsa 608-274-7522 admin@wisoybean.org

Your Team

From the Dairyland to D.C., Wisconsin Soybean Association (WSA) farmer directors work on behalf of 1,200 members to ensure sound ag policies for Wisconsin’s nearly 17,000 soybean farmers.

Your voice in Madison. Grassroots advocacy is at the core of WSA’s mission. Our volunteer farmer leaders serve as the voice of soybean farmers in Madison and Washington, D.C. WSA’s advocacy efforts are directed by farmer leaders and driven by membership dollars, lobbying support and collaborating with the American Soybean Association on federal policy issues.

Founded in 1973, WSA is a grassroots advocacy organization. We rely on volunteer members to help fund our advocacy efforts.

Profitability – by working to adopt usage of biodiesel, fighting to keep valuable farm inputs and more.

Ideas That Work – we push for plans that bring value back to farmers, such as biodiesel adoption.

WSA is farmer led, which means the men and women fighting on your behalf understand the issues important to the districts and farmers they serve.

Growing Markets – we work for state investments in infrastructure by land or water to get your crops to market.

SAVE TIME JOIN ONLINE TODAY! WSA’S HISTORY

‘WAIT AND SEE’

Following election, WSA plots path for 2025

By Drew Lyon

The voters spoke loud and clear at the ballot box, and in a 2024 election cycle that saw partisan divides further deepen, Wisconsin was an outlier. The Badger State represented one of just three states to vote for Republican President-elect Donald Trump while also narrowly electing a Democratic senator. Of those states, Wisconsin was the only one that reelected its incumbent (Sen. Tammy Baldwin).

“Senator Baldwin has a very strong track record for Wisconsin and for Wisconsin farmers. She’s done a lot for agriculture and agribusiness, but I think that result is a testament to her as an individual candidate,” said Jordan Lamb, who lobbies on behalf of the Wisconsin Soybean Association (WSA).

“In Wisconsin in the general election, you can split the ticket and that is a very interesting result. It was not something that I think people expected.”

Both national races fell within the polling margin of error: Trump, who was in a dead heat with Vice President Kamala Harris heading into Nov. 5, prevailed by .9% (just under 30,000 votes) in Wisconsin, while Sen. Baldwin earned reelection by also defeating GOP challenger Eric Hovde by .9% (29,116 votes). Baldwin, who was first elected in 2012, will be sworn in for another six-year term in January 2025. Though WSA doesn’t endorse candidates, the organization has appreciated Baldwin’s farmrelated advocacy efforts, including her support for biofuels and tackling trade barriers.

“Tammy has proven to be a friend of the farmer,” WSA President Sara Stelter said. “She’s always been very receptive to us coming and talking with her and bringing issues forward to her. Over the years, we have worked closely with her on a number of different items.”

All eight of Wisconsin’s seats in the House of Representatives were also up for election, and each predicted winner emerged victorious. With Republicans poised to control the presidency, Senate and House, WSA is hopeful that party leaders protect agriculture’s interests, support biofuels and avoid a renewed trade war with China. Wisconsin soybean farmers export about 65% of their product; China is their top customer (Canada and Mexico are the state’s top two ag export markets). Further trade tensions could limit China’s demand for U.S. soy.

“If they put on those tariffs, that is going to be extremely harmful to soybeans and soybean exports,” said Stelter, who farms in Wautoma. “That’s one of the things to watch out for going forward.”

Lawmakers must also address the status of a new Farm Bill, a battle that is likely to extend well into 2025. The 2017 tax cuts also expire in 2025, which could create opportunities for farmers to advocate for reforms to the estate tax.

“That would be a big benefit to the farmers,” WSA Vice President Doug Rebout said. “We’ve got to work on those things that President-elect Trump favors and we’ve got to help to push those priorities along now.”

Along with promoting biofuels, WSA and the American Soybean Association (ASA) – Tanner Johnson and Don Lutz represent Wisconsin on ASA – are also prepared to continue defending legislative efforts to repeal the soybean checkoff program. The farmer-funded program, which supports research, market development and promotion efforts, returns an estimated $12.30 for every $1 invested by producers.

“The checkoff is very important to the future of all commodities,” Rebout, who farms in Janesville, said. “The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board puts a lot of money into research and new products that we’re advocating for – they’re giving us factual information that we can use when we talk to our legislators.”

The 119th Congress is sworn in on Jan. 3, 2025, and Donald Trump will begin his second term on Jan. 20. In a repeat of 2017, he’ll preside in the Oval Office with GOP majorities in both the Senate and House. In addition, he’ll be working with a new cabinet, including incoming USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, a Texan who is expected to earn Senate confirmation.

“Right now, we just have to wait and see what happens and work with legislators,” Stelter said.

MOVES IN MADISON

At the state level, Democrats chipped away at the Republicans’ large margins in both the state house and state assembly. Following a new outline of district maps, Democrats reduced the GOP’s advantage in the State Assembly down to 54-45 and flipped four Senate seats to cut their deficit to 18-15, which removed the Republicans supermajority. The Democrats are now optimistic about their chances to flip the Senate in 2026 when the even-numbered seats are up for election.

Rebout said he and his fellow directors are excited to build relationships with the new class of legislators in Madison.

“There are so many new legislators that we’re going to have to work really hard to go and educate a lot of them, because a lot of them probably don’t have a whole lot of agriculture background,” Rebout said. “Hopefully we’ll educate them on what we’re doing and why we’re doing it,

Annual Meeting at Corn•Soy Expo

WSA will hold its annual meeting Feb. 6 at 10:30 a.m. during Corn·Soy Expo in the Tamarind/ Guava room. As part of the agenda, the board will highlight its 2024 policy wins and challenges, approve policy resolutions, discuss the progress of WSA’s political election committee and elect its officer team. At-Large Director Danny Brisky, Vice President Doug Rebout and Treasurer Matt Rehberg’s seats are each up for election.

All active WSA members are encouraged to attend this meeting and learn more about WSA’s policy activities.

then we can get some favorable votes on both sides.”

As 2025 begins, Wisconsin will once again have a divided government, meaning all bills signed by Gov. Tony Evers must have bipartisan support. For WSA, that’s not a negative proposition.

“We’re fortunate to live in a state where both parties understand how important agriculture is to our economy,” WSA Executive Director Adam Kask said. “Agriculture is one of those rare issues that still has bipartisan cooperation, and we look forward to working with both sides of the aisle during the upcoming session.”

WSA is a member of the Wisconsin Ag Coalition, which met in the days following the election to discuss policy initiatives for the 2025-26 session. WSA anticipates advocating for a number of issues, including biofuels incentives, continued farmer-led conservation and cover crop programs and promoting soy-based firefighting foam throughout the state.

“I’m optimistic about the upcoming session,” Stelter said. “As an industry, we’re on the same page when it comes to the policies we’re supporting.”

WSA will participate in the Wisconsin Ag Coalition’s annual Day on the Hill March 26 in Madison. The session starts Jan. 6 and runs through spring 2026, when legislators typically pause to begin campaign season in earnest.

Growers will convene to further discuss policies in Wisconsin Dells Feb. 6-7, 2025, during the annual Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo, which will include panels from state and federal legislative experts. Both locally and federally, there will be no shortage of issues to address at this year’s Expo.

“There are a lot of unknowns at this point,” Rebout said, “but we’re staying hopeful and looking forward to visiting with our agriculture community at Corn·Soy Expo.”

Jordan Lamb (left) works with WSA’s board and Executive Director Adam Kask to implement the organization’s policy initiatives in Madison.

2025 Legislative Priorities

PROTECTING YOUR FARM’S FREEDOM TO THRIVE

The Wisconsin Soybean Association is a grassroots, farmer-led, membership organization. Since the soybean checkoff is prohibited by law from lobbying, WSA has worked for over 50 years to ensure sound legislative and regulatory policies are in place to improve the future of Wisconsin’s soybean industry. Here’s a closer look at the 2025 priorities we’re promoting in Madison.

Transportation Infrastructure

It’s essential that our roads and bridges can handle harvest and keep grain moving. We are looking to build on the historic investments the WI Legislature made in 2023 in passing $150 million in crucial funding for rural roads and bridges.

Crop Input Protection

WSA will work with regulators and lawmakers to ensure all our tools stay in the toolbox. With sustained pressure from anti-agriculture advocacy groups to try to limit the use of herbicides, pesticides or fertilizers, WSA stands up for our members to protect these vital inputs.

Value-added Uses

Soy is contained in over 1,000 commercially available products. One of those products, SoyFoam, is saving lives by protecting firefighters from harmful chemicals. We are urging the DNR to make this firefighting foam more accessible for fire departments across Wisconsin.

Over 60% of Wisconsin soybeans are exported, and we need to find new markets. The solution is here at home: The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System is Wisconsin’s gateway to the world. Improvements at facilities along the Port of Milwaukee will create new markets for soy farmers across Wisconsin.

Tax Relief

With soy prices down 40% since 2022, we need to ensure we are not further burdening family farms with taxes that force them to pay more than their fair share. We’re working to limit these costs and help keep our Wisconsin family farmers on the land.

Export Markets Conservation Programs

WSA farmers have shown a commitment to continuous improvement. Soy checkoff research investments at UW-Madison pay off in showing how to improve yields with lower off-farm impacts. Soy farmers are continually improving their operations to benefit their operations and all Wisconsinites through improved water quality and soil health. That’s why we continue to advocate for voluntary watershed grants and cover crop rebate programs.

FINDING HIS VOICE

By Mark Askelson

While he may not always be the loudest or most talkative voice in the room, when Brad Sennhenn speaks, people listen. But the quiet and reserved farmer from south-central Wisconsin is looking to bust out of his shell. Brad and his wife, Kayla, hope to do just that by representing the Wisconsin Soybean Association (WSA) as participants in the 2024-25 American Soybean Association (ASA) Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program.

Brad Sennhenn is a part-owner of his family’s dairy farm, Sennview Dairy, in Columbus, which is about 30 miles north of Madison. Along with the cattle, they raise soybeans, corn, alfalfa and sorghum. In recent years, the Sennhenns have expanded their soybean acres for a better crop rotation and to reduce disease pressure.

“We’ve had some rootworm issues in recent years, so we hope this will help with that and potentially increase our yields,” Sennhenn said. “Plus, it breaks up the harvest a little bit as well.”

Sennhenn first heard about the ASA Young Leader program through his neighbor down the road, Danny Brisky, who graduated from the 202324 Class.

“He thought it would be something I would enjoy, and I was looking to get off the farm a little bit to broaden my knowledge of the industry,” Sennhenn said. “I’d like to be a voice for the people in my area and help ensure a profitable future for Wisconsin farmers.”

As a past Young Leader, Brisky knew what could be gained through the course and was confident his neighbor would benefit from a chance to blossom.

“I thought it would be a good fit for him,” said

BRAD SENNHENN LOOKS TO BREAK OUT OF SHELL WITH ASA YOUNG LEADER PROGRAM

Brisky, who was selected to participate in the third portion of the program, which led to an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with fellow WSA directors. “He’s a little bit more quiet and reserved, but incredibly smart, so I felt this would be a good opportunity for him to break out of his shell and his comfort zone.”

GOOD TO GO

In early December, Sennhenn participated in the first phase of the program at Corteva’s Global Business Center in Johnston, Iowa. One of his main goals during the program’s initial portion was to converse with as many fellow Young Leaders as he could.

“My wife thinks this program will be good for me, so she challenged me to meet new people, which I was able to do,” Sennhenn said. “As part of our training during phase one, we learned how to communicate effectively with other people with different personalities, which will also benefit me even more in the future.”

While in Iowa, participants from across ASA’s member states also learned more about the trade industry, toured the Corteva research facility and engaged in media training.

“We had some news anchors come in and give us some basic tips on how to be a good interview subject, how to help get the conversation going and how to answer questions,” Sennhenn said. “We had to give a presentation, too, which I found was much easier once I got to know everyone in the room.”

Behind the Scenes

The Young Leader Program was founded in 1984 and continues to set the bar for leadership training in agriculture, identifying and training new, innovative and engaged growers to serve as the voice of the American farmer. It also helps participants to build a strong peer network, generating increased success in their businesses and communities. Many graduates of this training program from Wisconsin have grown into leadership roles at the state and national soybean levels. The leadership program is also supported by the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board and the soy checkoff.

The experience so far has been very humbling for Sennhenn, who admits to having to take a step back at one point while in Iowa to soak it all in.

“It’s such an honor to be selected and included in this group,” Sennhenn said. “I was looking around the room and there’s folks from Nebraska and Louisiana. I really hope to learn more about how they farm and how it differs from us here in Wisconsin.”

The program’s second phase starts in late February when the Sennhenns will head to Denver for Commodity Classic. During that session, Sennhenn is eager to take a deeper dive into farm-policy advocacy.

“I’m looking forward to learning more about our messaging and how to properly relay that message in either Madison or Washington, D.C.,” Sennhenn said. “While I follow politics, I don’t claim to be a politician, but I would like to know more about what’s going on inside their head.”

As part of his new role, Sennhenn becomes an at-large WSA director for one year. He will join WSA directors for his first board meeting Feb. 6 at 10:30 a.m. during WSA’s Annual Meeting at Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo. He’s also excited to make his debut appearance at Corn·Soy Expo.

“There’s a first time for everything,” he said. “I’m eager to meet the board and learn more about what’s ahead for 2025.”

Brad Sennhenn, ASA staff and industry partners participate in the Young Leader Program’s first phase at Corteva’s Global Business Center in Iowa.

WISHH leverages partnerships for U.S. Soy to help meet the protein needs of 8 billion consumers

‘WHY I FARM’: Strength

in Steffes

By Kelsey Barchenger

One step out of the Steffes farm shop, and you’ll take in a picturesque view of the rolling hills surrounding Mineral Point. What you can’t do is feel the topography of each uneven square foot of the land, at least in the same way as Wisconsin Soybean Association (WSA) Director Jake Steffes.

"I like these John Deere tractors the most,” Steffes said with a grin as he jolted forward and turned on his massaging driver’s seat.

Hands gripping the steering wheel inside his grain cart, eyes locked on the rows ahead, he feels every little bump his tires roar over, but Steffes credits what’s in the rearview mirror for each smooth patch he glides over.

“It was always important to my parents to keep us involved in agriculture and farming, just kind of not pushing it on us but to make sure we’re enjoying it while doing it, too,” Steffes said.

Like many kids, he grew wide-eyed at the big equipment he’d see ripping through a soybean field.

Beyond the field, he took a liking to the four-legged friends that would greet him with an oink or a moo.

“We milked cows around the time he was born, so when he was younger, he would always come with me to the farm to milk cows,” Brenda Steffes, Jake’s mom, said.

Brenda really noticed a progressing passion for agriculture in her son when he started showing hogs during eighth grade.

THE REAL THING

Jake graduated from University of Wisconsin-Platteville in 2021 with a degree in ag marketing and returned to his roots to farm full time in 2022, but he planted the seed long before he walked off the stage with his diploma.

Like many of his peers, Steffes’ career trajectory was altered (in a positive way, in his case) by a pandemic.

“When COVID hit there were two years of being around the farm,” he said. “That was when I really started enjoying farming more, and that was when I really realized I wanted to be a full-time farmer. Me and my brother, Cade, bought our first farm in 2021.”

Since then, he’s measured his time in acres, not hours, with his lifeblood by his side. The Steffes Farm, which includes Jake, Cade and their dad, Mark, is among the 95% of farms that are family-owned in Wisconsin, and it’s that strong family bond that makes the long hours worthwhile.

“Not everyone my age has the opportunity to be part of their family farm, and I feel pretty lucky,” Jake said. “It’s something me and my brother can contribute to and can hopefully one day pass on to our brothers’ kids.”

Steffes also grew his leadership by participating

Soy much more to see: Watch Jake Steffes in action

in the American Soybean Association Young Leader 2022-2023 class and becoming an at-large WSA director with the Wisconsin Soybean Association.

“I knew I wanted to get out there and meet new people and learn about the ag industry,” Steffes said. “Hopefully I can make a difference in our industry.”

‘THE BEST PART’

He starts and ends each day with a humble sense of pride that doesn’t go unnoticed by the loved ones who helped steer him in the right direction.

“I’m just really proud of everything he’s accomplished, and his involvement with the Wisconsin Soybean Association really tops it off,” Brenda said. “We’re so proud. This is what every family dreams of.”

In the driver’s seat navigating the highs and lows of Mineral Point’s rolling hills, Jake doesn’t forget to end his day with reflection.

“The best part is when you look back and you’re at the end of the day and you see everything you’ve accomplished and how it benefited the farm overall and see the work you’ve put into it and see what you get out of it,” he said.

More to Come

The “Why I Farm” series continues throughout 2025 in both Soy Forward and Wisconsin Soybean Program’s digital channels. Next up are profiles of WSA President Sara Stelter and Vice President Doug Rebout.

DOG DAYS:

A farmer’s best friend

By Chip the Dog

Being a farm dog is the best.

Ever since Jake brought me home, we’ve been besties. He lets me sleep in the same room, and I get to wake up each morning and nudge my buddy out of bed.

“Jake buddy,” I say with the nod of a wet nose. He’s not moving. I can’t tell you how many times he needs a little extra motivation. So, I lick his face. He likes that. I can tell because he swats at his face and stretches my head a little extra hard before taking me outside.

Our days are interesting. Jake takes me a lot of places with him. My favorite is when we go for a ride in the shiny thing with wheels. He can make it go fast. That’s the best. There are lots of things to smell, soybeans, corn, cows, poop. He doesn’t seem to notice, but I make sure he knows there is a lot going on. Sometimes I hop on his lap and help him steer. We zoom left and right quickly. Occasionally, he hollers at me. He really enjoys the game.

Most of the time, I guard the yard. Duke thinks that’s his job, but he’s old, and he doesn’t like me much. We went toe-to-toe when Jake first brought me home. Now he just sits on his throne and growls at everyone, especially me. But he’s a good big brother. And he doesn’t get in my way when I’m on watch.

“Ruff-ruff. RUFF-RUFF-RUFF. Squirrel!”

Sorry about that. I’m always chasing away the vermin. I did well. Jake patted me on the head.

The best part of my day is when I find a nice thicket of cockleburs to run through. Sometimes, it feels good to roll in the mud, too. I like how it cools me down, but Jake doesn’t like that as much. Sometimes he sprays me with the hose. I like that game. I try to bite the water before it gets me.

Let’s be honest, Jake couldn’t farm if he didn’t have me. Who would he talk to? Whose head would he pet when he is making that thinking face? Yup, I’m a farm dog, and I’m Jake’s farm dog.

Editor’s note: Duke declined to be interviewed for this story.

The farm life offers adventures galore for Chip.

Cash in on Cover Crops

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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

WISCONSIN LEADERS ADD INPUT TO UNITED SOYBEAN BOARD

By Kelsey Barchenger

They see great potential in a tiny bean and have full confidence in growth to come – that’s what has three Wisconsin soybean farmers leading the charge to make a difference in the soybean industry beyond the state’s borders as members of the United Soybean Board (USB).

“Before I got on the board, I knew that they help promote exports with the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), fund research that will help tackle problems and that’s about all I knew,” said Eau Galle farmer Tony Mellenthin, who’s served on USB since 2019. “As I got involved, I saw there was so much more to it. There’s so much more promotion and communication outside of our farmer realm that we sometimes don’t see.”

Along with Mellenthin, Sara Stelter and Nancy Kavazanjian also represent the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board on USB, which directs national checkoff funds to create profit opportunities for U.S. soybean farmers.

USB CEO Lucas Lentsch said the Wisconsin trio bring hometown interests to the national stage.

“Every farmer from every zip code plays a role in this organization because the soy checkoff starts at a local level,” Lentsch said. “Having Nancy, Tony and Sara represent Wisconsin as directors on the United Soybean Board ensures that local views and priorities are integrated into the larger checkoff strategy.”

Since becoming USB CEO in late 2023, Lentsch has worked to restructure and retool the organizations, strengthening connections with growers.

“We’ve moved from largely relying on contractors to administer our programs and oversee the work being done on our behalf to internalizing it and having it all in house so it’s really one step closer to the farmer,” Mellenthin said.

GROWING AS A GROUP

Mellenthin, Stelter and Kavazanjian were assigned to their work groups during USB’s December board meeting. Kavazanjian will serve on the innovation technology supply work group for the fourth consecutive year and have a role on the communications and education committee.

“It deals a lot with things farmers really use, like basic breeding and biotechnology, as well as tools that farmers can use on the farm, like artificial intelligence and drones,” Kavazanjian said. “To me it’s really exciting because they are things that really impact the farm.”

Stelter will serve on the health and nutrition work group, which focuses on the impact of soy on animal and human health and nutrition.

“I’m looking forward to exploring ways we can incorporate soy into the diets of animals to help improve their overall health and performance and seeing its health potential when it comes to humans as well,” Stelter said.

Mellenthin is eager to serve as lead on USB’s newly formed export work group, working with export partner organizations that include World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) and USSEC. Mellenthin is also an ex-officio WISHH board member.

“While we do work with those organizations, the work

Eau Galle farmer Tony Mellenthin (left) engages in numerous interviews during WI Corn·Soy Expo

USB Director Sara Stelter is passionate about driving demand for U.S. Soy.

of this work group is solely USB. We are going to start portfolio development and determine what areas we want to invest in, and those organizations submit proposals for the work that we want to be done,” Mellenthin said, who also was placed on the USB communications and education committee.

Looking ahead to 2025, Mellenthin is optimistic about the potential for future partnerships that are designed to grow and diversify the soybean market.

“I’m really excited about some of the research we’re doing to help soybean farmers overcome their biggest

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15+ farmer workshops and expos in Wisconsin

27 farmers enrolled in Wisconsin

10,000 acres enrolled in Wisconsin

Visit farmersforsoilhealth.com or contact Wisconsin Soil Health Specialist Teagan Duffy at duffy@ctic.org for more information.

challenges,” Mellenthin said. “There’s also some really awesome partnerships to diversify our markets that we’re just establishing relationships with right now.”

With Wisconsin well-represented on USB, there’s no doubt about the strong dedication the state has to give its farmers a voice.

“Mellenthin, Stelter and Kavazanjian’s leadership demonstrates soy farmers’ commitment to advancing the soybean industry while staying rooted in their communities,” Lentsch said. “Having strong representation from states across the U.S. is essential to the checkoff’s success.”

To learn more about the national soy checkoff, visit unitedsoybeanboard.org.

Real ROI

ACCORDING TO THE LATEST RESEARCH, SOY GROWERS EARN $12.30 IN RETURN VALUE FOR EVERY DOLLAR INVESTED INTO THE CHECKOFF.

THE SOY CHECKOFF ALSO ADDS NEARLY 31,000 JOBS TO THE U.S. ECONOMY.

Join other Wisconsin farmers receiving financial incentives for using cover crops through the Farmers for Soil Health program! After completing an easy enrollment and verification, you can earn $50 per acre for new cover crop acres.

There’s still time to enroll your 2024 cover crop acres by Feb. 28. We’re enrolling 2025 cover crop acres, too. It’s stackable with other programs, so connect with us today to determine your eligibility!

Farmers for Soil Health is created by farmers, for farmers. This farmer-led approach means you get real-field perspectives from producers in your area who are available for advice and assistance. Wisconsin has three cover crop coaches across the state.

Heading to the 2025 Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo? Visit the CTIC team in booth #224 and learn how it pays to enroll in Farmers for Soil Health!

Nancy Kavazanjian also directs soy checkoff funds through her role as secretary/treasurer of Northern Soy Marketing.

We put soybeans ﬁrst because you put performance ﬁrst.

At Asgrow® brand, not only are we all about the beans, we’re all about your success as well. That’s why we o er localized products with leading genetics, weed management systems and maximum pro t potential – all developed by soybean experts who put soybeans rst.

DISCOVER HOW IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BEANS. Asgrow.com

Wisconsin farmer named to ASA’s executive committee

Tanner Johnson is going places. The Prairie Farm grower was elected to serve on the nine-member American Soybean Association (ASA) executive committee during ASA’s December board meeting in St. Louis.

“I’m proud to represent Wisconsin and American soybean farmers on the ASA executive board,” said Johnson, who was elected to WSA in 2022. “There’s no shortage of challenges that soybean farmers are facing, and I view it as my job to turn every one of those challenges into opportunities.”

ASA is poised to address several policy issues in the coming year, including passing a new Farm Bill, advocating for farmer economic assistance following a 40% drop in soybean prices in the past two years, tax relief, protecting crop inputs and promoting growth in the biofuels industry.

Don Lutz, who serves alongside Johnson on ASA, said his colleague is up to the task.

“He’s well adapted to what the challenges are and listens and is excited about what he’s doing,” Lutz said. “You’ve got to learn either through experience or listening to others, and that’s what Tanner is doing.”

Johnson has sat on the Wisconsin Soybean Association since 2017. A first-generation farmer, Johnson is a past ASA Young Leader and grows soybeans, corn, winter wheat, alfalfa hay and cover crop species in a no-till environment. He also owns and operates a Pioneer Seed agency and agronomy consulting business. He married his wife, Brittany, in 2023.

Kentucky farmer Caleb Ragland, who previously served as ASA vice president, will serve as 2025 ASA president. Immediate past president Josh Gackle of North Dakota transitions to ASA chairman. The board elected Scott Metzger (OH) as ASA vice president, a role that puts him in line to serve as the association’s president in 2026.

Established in 1920, ASA advocates on behalf of the nation’s nearly 500,000 soybean producers. G.M. Briggs of Madison is the only Wisconsin farmer to have served as ASA president (1922-1923). Before he considers the possibility of being the second Wisconsin farmer to lead WSA, Johnson is focused on the policy tasks at hand.

“It’s time to get to work!” he said.

Wisconsin farmer Tanner Johnson figures to see a lot more of Capitol Hill in the year ahead.

The American Soybean Association has made connecting with federal lawmakers easier than ever before. The Soy Action Center’s policy campaigns highlight policy priorities that need immediate input, as well as providing issues background, contact information for your lawmakers and officials, and more. ASA – and state affiliates including WSA – is made stronger by the passion and dedication of our farmers. Please join in and contact Wisconsin’s congressional delegation when timely farm-related policy concerns arise.

Visit soygrowers.com/soy-action-center/ to learn more.

Without fertile land, Wisconsin soybean growers couldn’t sustain a bountiful harvest every fall. Thankfully, with crop insurance premium rebates for planting cover crops available through the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), Wisconsin producers have another tool in their toolbox to encourage the adoption of sound practices. This program is supported by numerous Wisconsin farm advocacy groups, including WSA.

“Wisconsin soybean growers know that to keep their land productive, it’s vital to adopt sustainable practices that work on their operation,” WSA Executive Director Adam Kask said. “DATCP programs like the crop insurance premium rebate for planting cover crops present excellent opportunities for farmers to implement sound agricultural practices.”

In partnership with the USDA’s Risk Management Agency, $800,000 or 160,000 acres of coverage is available to be rewarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Recipients will receive a $5 per-acre rebate on their summer 2025 crop insurance premium for acres planted with cover crops in 2024, then planted to an insurable crop the following year.

Producers who received state or federal cost-sharing to plant cover crops in 2024 are not eligible for this year’s program. Applicants will need to use their FSA-578 form to complete the application, and there isn’t a limit on acres a producer can apply for. Because DATCP will conduct audits to ensure cover crops were planted, applicants should keep seed receipts and planting records.

“With this rebate available, now is the perfect time to plant cover crops – whether you’ve been doing it for years or if this will be your first time experimenting with them,” Kask said.

The application will remain open until 12 p.m. on Jan. 31, 2025, or until program funding is exhausted. More information is available on DATCP’s webpage. Questions should be directed to DATCPCC@wisconsin.gov.

The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board has invested soybean checkoff resources toward donating plant growth chambers (Conviron PGR15) to the WiscWeeds lab, a research and Extension program overseen by Dr. Rodrigo Werle in the University of Madison-Wisconsin’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and the Division of Extension.

Researching weed management depends on plant growth chambers in fighting giant ragweed and waterhemp. Growth chambers can help control environmental factors including temperature, relative humidity and light. Researchers can use these chambers to find the most effective herbicide application techniques in particular environments.

Understanding herbicide efficacy is important for Wisconsin farmers and their service providers. Wisconsin farmers grow 6 million acres of corn and soybeans annually. Over 95% of those acres are applied with herbicides. However, herbicide-resistant weeds and extreme weather conditions bring challenges to these cropping systems.

The WiscWeeds team uses growth chambers to study topics including weed seed germination ecology, weed growth and phenology, and weed response to chemical weed control under various environmental conditions.

Cover crop rebate available to Wisconsin producers

WISCONSIN CORN • SOY EXPO

On-site Program

February 6-7, 2025

Kalahari Conference Center, Wisconsin Dells

Hosted by the Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Soybean Association and Wisconsin Pork Association

A Resilient Mindset

Greetings, friends! As Wisconsin’s premier grower event, the Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo continues to provide Wisconsin’s corn and soybean growers and pork producers with timely industry and agronomic updates, and networking opportunities across two days at the Kalahari Conference Center.

Once again, the unique mix of topics highlighted at this year’s Expo promises to keep you energized and engaged. This year’s agenda runs the gamut and lays out the stakes for 2025. We’re offering some much-needed comedy; delving deep into mental health and farm safety; hosting panels on new uses in soy, trade and conservation; and, of course, it wouldn’t be a farmer gathering without a little weather banter.

We’ve collaborated over the past several months working through every detail to ensure that when you leave the Dells, you’ll return home with relevant information to apply to your operation or business. Make sure to take your time when browsing the trade show floor, which boasts more than 125 exhibitors, and study the agenda to make sure you don’t miss one of the several panel discussions, breakout sessions or keynote speakers.

And don’t forget to stop by the WSA, WCGA and WPA booths and learn more about our recent successes and 2025 goals. Without our members and industry allies, our organizations simply couldn’t succeed. You’re the reason we keep working to innovate, and nothing makes our day like connecting with our growers and producers. We need (and appreciate) your support!

After a memorable (or was it forgettable?) 2024 growing season, we are so excited to reunite at the Kalahari and talk shop – and have a little fun in between meetings, too. Marquee events like the Corn·Soy Expo bring all the key players in Wisconsin agriculture together, strengthening relationships and securing a strong future for agriculture. Thank you for carving time out of your hectic schedule to attend this year’s Expo. Let’s make 2025 the best one yet!

Sara Stelter

President, Wisconsin Soybean Association

James Giese

President, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association

Christina Meylor

President, Wisconsin Pork Association

Agenda

Wednesday, Feb. 5

12:00 p.m. Private Pesticide License Training — Africa 90

The UW Pesticide Applicator Training (PAT) Program is hosting a private pesticide applicator training. The training is for the 100 Private General Farming category and concludes with the certification test. The certification test is an open book test and participants in the training only need to receive a 50% score to receive their certification. For those wanting to obtain their 100 General Farming Private Pesticide Applicator License, the manual can take up to 2 weeks to arrive, so please purchase your manual early enough to allow time to receive your manual prior to the training. Purchasing the manual DOES NOT include the training class (sold separately). Seats are first come, first serve. For questions, please contact Jordan Kampa at Jordan.kampa@wisc.edu or (414) 399-0373.

Scan the QR code to register and purchase your manual:

100 General Farming Pesticide Applicator Training at Corn/Soy

7:00 p.m. Wisconsin Corn’s 50th Anniversary — Africa West

Thursday, Feb. 6

7:30 a.m. Registration Opens

8:00 a.m. Grand Opening Keynote Speaker: Eric Snodgrass — Kalahari Ballroom

Eric Snodgrass is a Principal Atmospheric Scientist for Conduit, where he develops predictive, analytical software solutions to manage weather risk for global production agriculture. He provides frequent weather updates that focus on how high-impact weather events influence global agriculture productivity. His current research uses machine learning to better understand field-level weather impacts on yields in the U.S. and to increase confidence in long-range weather prediction. He presents his research as a featured speaker at over 100 conferences annually where he provides logistical guidance and solutions to weather sensitive financial institutions, farmers, commodity traders and other stakeholders.

8:45 a.m. Corn·Soy Expo Introductions — Kalahari Ballroom

9:15 a.m. Prosper Through Persistence – Take the Long View — Kalahari Ballroom

It has often been said, “90 percent of success is simply showing up.” But what about the remaining 10 percent? Davis Michaelsen will bring perspective on succession planning, starting a side-business alongside conventional farming operations and what the land and grain markets are telling us about the year ahead.

10:00 a.m. Corn·Soy Expo Trade Show Opens — Africa East Brought to you by Wyffels Hybrids

10:30 a.m. Wisconsin Pork Association Annual Meeting — Mangrove/Aralia

10:30 a.m. Wisconsin Soybean Association Annual Meeting — Tamarind/Guava

Agenda

Thursday, Feb. 6

11:30 a.m. Wisconsin Corn Association Annual Meeting — Africa 20

11:30 a.m. Lunch — Africa West

Served until 1:00 p.m.

1:30 p.m. Breakout Sessions

(CCA credit available for some sessions, credits listed next to session.)

The Future of Firefighting with SoyFoam — Africa 20

Unpack soy’s potential with SoyFoam ™ TF 1122, the first and only firefighting foam GreenScreen Certified® at the Gold level. The PFAS-free soy-based foam has the power to change the future of firefighting for the better. During this session, you’ll learn how the firefighting foam developed by Cross Plains Solutions is being tested right here in Wisconsin, blazing a trail and connecting two community backbones: firefighters and farmers.

Dave Garlie, Managing Partner/CTO, Cross Plains Solutions, LLC

Chris Turner, Fire Safety Center Lead, Chippewa Valley Technical College

Jason Wiley, Farmer and Firefighter, Chief Rock Falls Fire Department

Moderated by Larry Lee, Anchor/Reporter, Brownfield Ag News

FBI & Cyber Threats to Agriculture — Africa 30

The agricultural industry is facing a growing number of cyber threats that can halt operations and delay sales. The increased use of cloud-based technology in agriculture has created more vulnerabilities. Learn what you can do to protect against cyberattacks.

DOT Standards — Africa 40

Do you have questions about DOT regulations and rules related to agriculture? This session is for you! With guidance from Dave Anderson, you can ensure your farm is compliant and maintaining safety.

Weed Control in the Age of Resistance: Harnessing Herbicide Mixtures and Integrated Strategies

- Rodrigo Werle, Assistant Professor & Extension Cropping Systems Weed Scientist, University of Wisconsin (1.0 CM) —Tamarind/Guava

Join Dr. Rodrigo Werle for a recap on herbicide resistance and recent research from the WiscWeeds lab, focusing on optimizing herbicide mixtures for effective weed control, utilizing cover crops for weed suppression and exploring the future of see & spray technologies. Emphasizing integrated approaches, the discussion will highlight practical solutions for managing herbicide-resistant weeds and advancing sustainable weed management practices in Wisconsin’s corn-soybean cropping systems.

The Hard But Necessary Family Conversations on Farm Succession — Wesley Tucker, Farm & Ranch

Transition Specialist, University of Missouri Extension — Africa 10

Farm succession planning is a challenging yet essential process for ensuring the long-term sustainability of family farms. In this session, Wesley will lead a deep dive into the tough but necessary conversations that every farm family must have when preparing for the future.

Drawing from his 23 years of experience in estate and succession planning, agricultural marketing systems and farm business management, Wesley will guide participants through the emotional and logistical aspects of transitioning farm operations to the next generation. He will explore the critical topics of estate planning, family dynamics, financial structures and communication strategies needed to navigate these complex decisions.

Agenda

Thursday, Feb. 6

2:30 p.m.

3:00 p.m.

Corn·Soy Expo Trade Show Break

Brought to you by Wyffels Hybrids

Breakout Sessions

Machinery Performance and Autonomous Agriculture — Africa 20

Equipment agronomist Dave Murphy explains how to determine return on investment of field operations and how machinery decisions impact the bottom line. We will also analyze autonomous machines in agriculture; where they make sense and how Wisconsin farmers are making them payoff.

Brought to you by 360 Yield

Fungicides 201: What You Really Need to Know to Maximize Fungicide ROI in Soybeans and CornDamon Smith, Professor and Extension Specialist – Field Crops Pathology (1.0 PM) — Africa 30 Deep dive into the world of epidemiology. Dr. Smith brings years of experience to further develop better control recommendations for the sustainable management of field and forage crop diseases. Tapping into his wealth of knowledge through research and extension efforts, he will bring his epidemiology understanding of plant pathogens to better fungicide ROI.

What’s New in Wisconsin Corn Agronomy Program — Africa 40

Hear from Dr. Harkirat Kaur on the latest from the Wisconsin Corn Agronomy Program. This is your chance to hear from Wisconsin Corn’s new agronomist and find out how the corn agronomy program can help your operation.

From Data to Decisions: Mastering Product Characterization Research — Africa 10

Explore Beck’s innovative approach that dives deep into understanding our corn and soybean performance indicators and detailed insights that enable us to position them to the right management practices, giving us a competitive advantage. You’ll learn how Product Characterization Research combines all we do in Beck’s research and testing to elevate product confidence, enhancing our powerful choices strategy.

Brought to you by Beck’s

4:00 p.m. Corn·Soy Expo Trade Show Break — Africa East

Brought to you by Wyffels Hybrids

4:30 p.m. Breakout Session

Beer & Bull Session (1.0 CM) — Africa 10 & 20

Prior to starting the Beer & Bull Session, Eocene Environmental Group Livestock Specialist Haley Kerr will give a brief update on USDA’s Climate-Smart Commodity grant program, which pork producers and crop farmers in Wisconsin are now eligible to receive financial incentives for in-barn and in-field practices.

Shawn Conley, Professor & Extension Soybean Specialist, University of Wisconsin; Damon Smith, Professor and Extension Specialist – Field Crops Pathology, University of Wisconsin; Rodrigo Werle, Assistant Professor & Extension Cropping Systems Weed Scientist, University of Wisconsin; Dr. Harkirat Kaur, Assistant Professor, Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences, University of Wisconsin. Pepper our state’s leading researchers with agronomic questions in a relaxed setting over an ice-cold beverage.

Session sponsored by WCPB, WSMB, WPA

Agenda

Thursday, Feb. 6

The Hard But Necessary Family Conversations on Farm Succession — Wesley Tucker, Farm & Ranch

Transition Specialist, University of Missouri Extension — Africa 30

5:30 p.m. WPA Silent Auction Opens —Africa Foyer

5:30 p.m. Porkapalooza — Africa West

Sponsored by Roth Feeder Pig, Wisconsin Pork Association and Piggly Wiggly

An evening of fun, networking, delicious pork appetizers, cold beverages, live music by Super Tuesday and live and silent auctions supporting youth programs and pork industry issues. Featuring special guests Phoebe Bacon, U.S. Olympic swimmer, and Piggly Wiggly’s Mr. Pig.

Wisconsin Soybean Yield Contest Award Ceremony

See which soy growers across Wisconsin yielded “Big Bean Energy” on their operations as part of the revamped 2024 Wisconsin Soybean Yield Contest.

6:00 p.m.

Corn·Soy Expo Trade Show Closes — Africa East

Brought to you by Wyffels Hybrids

Friday, Feb. 7

7:30 a.m.

Corn·Soy Expo Trade Show Opens — Africa East

Brought to you by Wyffels Hybrids

8:00 a.m. Early Riser Session – Matt Bennett, AgMarket.Net — Africa West

Matt brings the producer perspective to the table, enriched with his grain marketing background. He specializes in formulating risk-management strategies for corn, soybean and livestock producers.

Join the AgMarket.Net co-founder grain marketing consultant to discuss current market trends and opportunities.

9:00 a.m. Bacon & Brainstorming — Africa 10

Learn about cutting edge technologies in the pork industry, network and discuss industry issues. And what better way to enjoy a think tank than with BACON! Come check it out.

Agenda

10:00 a.m. Healthy Mind – Know How to Identify Farm Stress & Resources to Help — Africa West

This session will not only share information on farm stress but help you learn practical ways to work through challenging times to help yourself, your family or others in your community. Farming is a stressful business that deals with a lot of uncertainty. Join our presenters to learn more about mental wellness because you are your farm’s most important asset.

Megan Wolf, Therapist, Southwest Counseling

Karen Endres, Farmer Wellness Program Coordinator, Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection

Doug Rebout, Vice President, Wisconsin Soybean Association

10:00 a.m. Improving Growers’ ROI with Enhanced Phosphorus Efficiency Fertilizer Technology — Africa 20

Join Phosphosolutions for a compelling presentation on the latest innovations in crop nutrient dynamics. This session will explore the challenges of achieving optimal nutrient delivery, focusing on issues with traditional MAP and DAP fertilizers. They’ll dive into three decades of university research dedicated to optimizing phosphorus delivery, introducing proven technology backed by over five years of on-farm field trials and grower testimonials.

Attendees will gain a thorough understanding of:

• The complexities of soil dynamics and nutrient availability

• Current limitations of conventional fertilizers

• Breakthrough solutions with real-world results for improved phosphorus efficiency Brought to you by Phosphosolutions

10:00 a.m. Planning for Catastrophic & Unexpected Events — Africa 10

What if a devastating weather, disease or equipment failure event occurred on your farm? Do you have a plan for handling a high number of animal mortalities or for implementing additional biosecurity measures? In this interactive session, pork producers will work in small groups with industry experts to develop their personalized mortality disposal plans, contingency plans or Secure Pork Supply Plans. Attendees will leave with their plans in hand and feeling more prepared for their response to catastrophic or unexpected events on their farm.

11:00 a.m.

Corn·Soy Expo Trade Show Break — Africa East

Brought to you by Wyffels Hybrids

12:30 p.m. Lunch with Keynote Speaker Greg Warren — Africa West

Join talented comedian Greg Warren, known for captivating audiences across the country with his Midwestern-inspired humor. Self-deprecation, frustration and an arsenal of lifelike characters highlight Warren’s colorful perspective.

1:30 p.m. Trade Think-Tank Panel — Africa West

Now more than ever, trade is a hot topic of conversation. With a new administration and Congress in Washington, D.C., what does future trade look like? From strategizing trade policies that support agriculture to dissecting the challenges of the current market and exploring solutions, the Trade Think-Tank Panel will cover all the export bases, offering perspectives from agricultural policy and trade experts.

Virginia Houston, Director of Government Affairs, American Soybean Association

Maria Zieba, Vice President of Government Affairs, National Pork Producers Council

Nancy Martinez, Congressional Policy Advisor and Trade Expert, National Corn Growers Association

Moderated by Mark Rhoda-Ries, Trade and Consumer Protection, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture

3:00 p.m.

Corn·Soy Expo Closes. See you in 2026!

Venue Map

Exhibitors

Exhibitor / Sponsor

360 Yield Center

AgMarket.Net

AgPoint Solutions

AgrAbility of Wisconsin

Agri Spray Drones

Agroliquid Fertilizer/Soil + Crop Services

AgSource Laboratories

AgXplore

American Drone

Azotic Technologies Limited

Aztalan Bio

Bank First

BASF

Bayer Crop Science Beck’s

Biomass Sales & Consulting LLC

Bremer Bank

Byron Seeds LLC

Capello SRL

Channel

Compeer Financial

Contree Sprayer & Equipment

Conservation Technology Information Center

Corteva Agriscience

Cream City Stateline Scale Co.,

Crops IMS, LLC

Cross Plains Solutions

Culpitt Roofing Inc.

Digifarm VBN

Environmental Tillage Systems

Eocene Environmental Group Sustainability

Ever.Ag

Farm-To-Power

Fertilizer Dealer Supply

Fish Sh!t

Focus on Energy

Golden Harvest Seed

Gowan USA

Harms Grain Equipment Inc.

Insight FS

International Crane Foundation

Jay-Mar, Inc

John Deere Financial

Kartechner Brothers LLC

La Crosse Seed

LeafFilter Gutter Protection

Legacy Seeds

LG Seeds

Mad City Windows and Baths

MEG Corp

Motomco

Booth Number

425, 427 416 624 208 225, 227 511 513

302 521, 523 213 307 313, 315, 412, 414 503, 505, 602, 604 406, 408 525, 527

304 526 215 627, 629 424, 426 218 224 321, 323, 420, 422 419 522, 524 210 308 519 305 517 316 216 310, 312 626 309 404 518 203 411 520 601 506, 508 211 324, 326 205 207 504 510

Exhibitors

Exhibitor / Sponsor

Mustang Seeds

Nicolet National Bank

North Central Irrigation

Nutrien

Nutrien Ag Solutions

Partners in Production LLC (PIP Seeds)

Penguin Drones

Pheasants Forever

Phospholutions

Premier Components, Inc.

Premier Insurance Solutions

Prinsco

ProfitProAG

QLF Agronomy

Riesterer & Schnell

Rob-See-Co

Roberts Irrigation Company

SB&B Foods

Schultz’s Inter-State Ag, Inc.

Security Financial Bank

Seedburo Equipment Company LLC

Soiltech Wireless

SoilView LLC

Spraytec Fertilizers

StoneX Financial Inc.

Stoughton Trailers

Syngenta Crop Protection

T H Agri-Chemicals, Inc.

The DeLong Co, Inc

The Scharine Group Inc

Tim Butterfield Drilling and Irrigation

Timpte, Inc.

Titan Application (Formerly Heartland Ag Systems)

Titan Pro

Total Farm Marketing

Unified Ag Solutions

USDA Farm Service Agency – Wisconsin

Van Beek Natural Science

Vine Vest North

Wilbur Ellis

Wilson Trailer Company

WinField United

Wisconsin Bank & Trust

Wisconsin Certified Crop Advisers (CCA)

Wisconsin Corn Growers Association

Wisconsin Pork Association

Wisconsin Rock Equipment LLC

Wisconsin Soybean Association

Wisconsin Tubing LLC

Wyffels

Booth Number

porkapalooza

ALWAYS LOOKING UP

WISCONSIN CORN·SOY EXPO WELCOMES ATMOSPHERIC SCIENTIST ERIC SNODGRASS

By Kelsey Barchenger

In the movie “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs,” main character and scientist Flint Lockwood is known for drumming up crazy weather concoctions from cheeseburgers to tacodiles to jellyfish sandwiches. The one character that movie is missing is someone like atmospheric scientist Eric Snodgrass to help the city of Swallow Falls prepare for a mouthwatering disaster that nearly wrecks the town.

He geeks out on this stuff.

“I’m a giant weather nerd and I love it,” Snodgrass said, who works as a senior atmospheric scientist at Conduit, an ag-commerce network employing a variety of technology tools to maximize farmer profitability.

In reality, while there may not be cheeseburgers falling from the sky in Wisconsin, Mother Nature still whips up a daily menu that, without proper planning, can have repercussions, especially for those who rely on the weather daily for their livelihood.

Snodgrass plans to dive into what typically steals the small talk spotlight as keynote speaker Feb. 6 at the 2025 Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo at the Kalahari Conference Center in Wisconsin Dells.

“Weather is the ultimate conversation starter, right?” Snodgrass said. “But when people come up and they want to talk to me about it, it’s like, oh, we’re going to dig!”

THE WEATHER WIZARD’S JOURNEY

In fact, Snodgrass started digging into the world of weather while studying at the University of Illinois.

“I liked problem solving, as well as mathematics and physics, even though I was bad at them,” he said. “I ended up choosing meteorology and atmospheric sciences. I got into college and fell in love with it. There’s something about studying the atmosphere that was just fascinating.”

He went on to work as a director of the University of Illinois’ undergraduate program as a professor of atmospheric sciences for about 15 years, started a

few small companies along the way dealing with the way weather influences decisions in many different industries. Those companies were eventually bought by Nutrien Ag Solutions. Snodgrass recently transitioned from working at Nutrien Ag Solutions to Conduit, where he continues to build up helpful tools for agriculture producers.

“I get to continue to work as a guy who pays attention to how weather is going to impact agriculture,” he said. “So, every morning I wake up and I work on solving that problem for growers so they can execute a better decision based off of weather information because you can make as many decisions about what you think Mother Nature might do, but the reality is that she has the final say.”

Making sure growers have an arsenal of knowledge to make an appropriate decision on the weather is where Snodgrass comes in.

STAYING AHEAD OF MOTHER NATURE

“My job is to stay one step ahead of her (Mother Nature) and try to read what she’s up to and keep folks informed because it’s the riskiest part of our business, understanding weather,” Snodgrass said.

What he’s found in his 15 years of studying meteorology is that growers themselves match his enthusiasm and crave more weather knowledge.

“I’m amazed at how much progress the U.S. grower has made in becoming an elevated weather nerd with me,” he said. “I have folks coming up tossing up jargon that I use every day and I’m like, oh my gosh, this is music to my ears. It fills my heart.”

With Snodgrass’ new role at Conduit, he’s on a mission to fill in the gaps for growers who buckle up each year to ride Mother Nature’s rollercoaster.

RIDING THE ROLLERCOASTER TOGETHER

“We think about this year in Wisconsin and the tremendous amount of rainfall early in the season and then we waltzed our way into this really long drought in September and October and folks just want to say, what made this happen and can I plan based upon it?” he said. “That’s one of the great things I’ve found working at Conduit. They’ve allowed me to build an entire ecosystem around weather that gives folks access to high-quality content that lets folks learn on their own.”

It’s the million-dollar question that he’s sure to be asked a few times at Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo: After a wet spring, cooler summer and dry fall, what does 2025 have in store on the climate front?

Snodgrass is hedging his bets.

“I have never talked in fall about the next season’s drought this early. I just don’t do it because so many things can change. But I have found myself traveling the country saying, things can definitely change, but my ears are perked up on the risk of drought going into the 2025 growing season,” Snodgrass said, emphasizing the fall drought and a weak La Niña as a few key factors that play into that prediction.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Snodgrass understands that there’s a lot of pressure that comes with forecasting the weather, and he wants Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo attendees to walk away from his keynote address feeling empowered to explore the impacts of weather right along with him.

“I want folks to leave there and in their car ride home, be talking about the Bermuda high and I want them to be able to pull up the Conduit weather tool, and learn more about it.”

WEATHER OR NOT

See which way the winds are blowing to kick off the 2025 Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo! Get the latest scoop from one of the nation’s leading meteorologists on what 2024 weather conditions could mean for 2025 during Eric Snodgrass’ opening keynote address Thursday, Feb. 6 at 8 a.m. in the Kalahari Ballroom

A BUSHEL OF LAUGHS

GREG WARREN BRINGS FARM-FRIENDLY COMEDY TO CORN·SOY EXPO

By Drew Lyon

Comedy and agriculture. To some keen observers, the pair go together like…peanut butter and jelly. And comedian Greg Warren knows a little bit about both combinations. Prior to becoming a professional stand-up comic two decades ago, Warren spent 10 years selling Jif Peanut Butter for Procter & Gamble.

“They were very good to me. But towards the end, I was like, ‘I think I need to do something I feel more passionate about,’” said Warren, whose 2023 special, “The Salesman,” highlights his sales career with Procter & Gamble. “I just sort of caught the bug with stand-up (comedy).”

Transitioning from selling peanut butter to making jokes stick onstage meant taking an 80-percent pay cut initially, but Warren has carved out a niche as an everyman comedian who riffs on life’s setbacks, insecurities and small triumphs – from his years as a West Point Cadet to a stint as a wrestler at the University of Missouri. He’s appeared on Comedy Central, the “Last Comic Standing,” at the Grand Old Opry and his clips are widely shared on various social media platforms.

“I think comedy is bigger than it’s ever been,” he said. “The internet is an awful place for a lot of reasons, but I would not have the career that I have without it.”

Farmers, of course, can empathize with Warren’s self-deprecating takes on life’s comic misadventures. Tanner Johnson, a Wisconsin farmer and director with American Soybean Association (ASA), became a fan through Warren’s regular radio appearances on the syndicated “Bob & Tom Show.” Johnson caught Warren at ASA’s Awards Banquet at the 2019 Commodity Classic and later saw him during a headline set before recommending the comedian to organizers of the 2025 Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo.

“You could tell Greg invests time into his act – he’s not just there for a paycheck,” Johnson said. “He’s hilarious and relatable and appeals to a pretty broad audience.”

Warren will help bring the 2025 Expo to its home stretch. After two days of focusing on conservation, markets, ag policies and mental health, Expo attendees will have a chance to sit back and share a few hearty laughs with the Missouri-based comedianduring his 12:30

p.m., hour-long set on Feb. 7 in the Africa West Ballroom. This year’s Expo offers an even mix of heavy and light topics, Johnson said.

“The ag economy is presenting a lot of challenges, and laughter is the best medicine,” Johnson said. “There’s nothing wrong with celebrating and having some camaraderie and laughs at our own expense.”

Warren isn’t a farmer or hard laborer, but he is a hardcore traveler: He typically performs around 200 dates a year. He said his material doesn’t aim to change minds or open hearts; rather, he enjoys sharing a space with his audience while retelling lighthearted, relatable moments and observations.

“I don’t pretend to place this huge importance on what I do. I do it because I love (comedy),” he said. “And there’s just a drive to get better at it and take an idea that seems sort of funny and craft it into something that people enjoy. There are all kinds of great things about this job. A side benefit is that I hope that for an hour, people sort of forget about what’s bothering them or their lives or they just forget about our differences.”

LOL

Warren’s farm-related material began after a show in Iowa. During a gig at a comedy club in the Hawkeye State, Warren started bantering with a group of soybean farmers. Warren, an agricultural novice and native of suburban St. Louis, found the encounter so humorous he used it as fodder for material the next night.

“A friend at Sirius Radio said, ‘You have to do a lot of that (farming) stuff,’” Warren said from his home in Missouri, where celebrities with Warren in their names (Buffett, Sapp, Beatty, etc.) hang on the wall behind him.

Warren later visited several row crop operations to further his limited understanding of agriculture. In his 2020

standup, “Where the Field Corn Grows,” Warren skewers agriculture and pokes fun at his (and his audience’s) lack of industry knowledge on topics including corn production, cover crops, the importance of crop rotation (“You don’t go bean on bean”), value-added uses for soybeans and encountering a hotel full of FFA members during FFA’s National Convention in Indianapolis.

“These corduroy jackets have not changed one bit in 30 years,” he said. “There’s a certain politeness to all these kids. I mean, those are the nicest kids in the world.”

The Expo crowd can expect Warren to cover similar terrain, along with musings on blue-collar work and, of course, peanut butter. Warren, who estimated he’s performed in Wisconsin 20 times in his career, said he enjoys telling farm jokes to both farming and non-farm audiences.

“When I get in front of your audience at the Expo, it’ll be a lot of fun because they know about farming,” Warren said. “It’s almost cheating a little bit, like doing jokes for your family. We all know the same thing.”

STICK TO THE BASICS FAB FIVE

WARREN IS A SELF-PROCLAIMED PEANUT BUTTER PURIST.

“THERE SHOULD BE CREAMY AND CRUNCHY, AND THAT’S ABOUT IT,” HE SAID IN “THE SALESMAN.”

MANY COMEDIANS WEAR THEIR INFLUENCES ON THEIR SLEEVES. WHILE WARREN WAS RELUCTANT TO NAME JUST FIVE, HE CITED A HANDFUL OF COMEDIANS AMONG HIS INSPIRATIONS, FRIENDS AND MENTORS.

• BOB NEWHART

• MITCH HEDBERG

• NATE BARGATZE

• GARY GULMAN

• JOE ZIMMERMAN

CORN·SOY EXPO BREAKOUT SESSION FOCUSED ON FIREFIGHTING FOAM

By Naomi Mortensen

Wisconsin farmers have an opportunity to explore how their soybeans can transform into new and innovative solutions at the 2025 Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo. On Thursday, Feb. 6 at 1:30 p.m., in Africa 20, a groundbreaking Soy New Uses Breakout Session will share the story of SoyFoam™ TF-1122, its impact on fire departments and how the checkoff uses the power of soy to create new markets and build demand by solving challenges.

“This is our first panel exploring new uses for soy and SoyFoam is truly a homegrown success story,” said Adam Kask, Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board (WSMB) executive director. “It was developed by a Wisconsinbased chemist and continues to undergo testing at the Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire. We want farmers to see how their soybeans go beyond feed, food and fuel to make a difference for rural heroes and communities.”

This session, which will be moderated by Larry Lee of Brownfield Ag News, will feature several experts, including:

• An introduction from Jonathan Gibbs, president of the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board

• Dave Garlie, Managing Partner and Chief Technology Officer at Cross Plains Solutions

• Chris Turner, Educator and Lead Technician for Chippewa Valley Technical College’s (CVTC) Fire Safety Center

• Jason Wiley, Farmer and Rock Creek Township Fire Department Fire Chief

The panel will discuss the research and development process, performance, testing and approvals, along with SoyFoam’s environmental benefits and its impact on firefighter safety. The audience will have time to ask questions and learn more about why soy is often seen as a powerful ingredient for innovation.

SOYFOAM’S ‘SUCCESS STORY’

The story of SoyFoam began when Cross Plains Solutions was approached by an affiliate of the New York City Fire Department seeking an environmentally friendly training foam. Traditional firefighting foams contain toxic PFAS chemicals that not only persist in the environment but have been linked to increased cancer risks for firefighters.

In fact, the Firefighter Cancer Support Network reports that firefighters nationwide have a 68% higher chance of getting cancer than the average person. Garlie knew soy could produce foam and is biodegradable, but he wasn’t sure if it could effectively combat fires.

With funding and support from the United Soybean Board and state checkoff boards like Wisconsin, Garlie and Cross Plains Solutions worked to develop SoyFoam and then rigorously test it with the help of Turner at the state-of-the-art Fire Safety Center at CVTC. The result is the first commercially available, GreenScreen Certified Gold firefighting foam.

“Soy is one of the most underutilized, sustainable and available building blocks for the industrial markets,” Garlie said. “Cross Plains Solutions has more than a combined 100 years of experience engineering naturally derived agricultural polymers to address environmental and health concerns of present-day petroleum derived chemistries like PFAS. SoyFoam is just one success story.”

SoyFoam TF-1122 stands out for several reasons, including:

• 84% biobased

• Completely biodegradable

• Fluorine-free

• Approved for Class A and Class B fires

• Effective on multiple fuel sources

• Compatible with existing firefighting equipment

With PFAS chemicals now banned in more than 11 states, SoyFoam offers a strong alternative to fire departments looking for solutions.

“SoyFoam is not only an excellent Class A wetting agent and fire retardant for controlled burns, but also a very effective Class B firefighting foam used to put out fuel fires and provide vapor suppression,” said Garlie, who notes it’s currently being evaluated for use by the Department of Defense and U.S. Forest Service. As part of its advocacy efforts, the Wisconsin Soybean Association is also urging the state Department of Natural Resources to encourage state fire departments to adopt the use of SoyFoam.

While Gibbs is excited to see all the ways soybeans bring value back to the farm, this one is less about profits and more about environmental and social benefits. SoyFoam itself will likely never use enough soy flour or meal to make a huge impact on soybean prices, but its benefits are priceless for his neighbors and friends who are firefighters.

“PFAS chemicals are so harmful to the environment and firefighters,” he said. “This product helps bring more safety and sustainability to our lives. That’s worth it to me.”

INVESTING IN SOY INNOVATION

While the checkoff still invests heavily in traditional food, feed and fuel markets, Kask notes that the WSMB dedicates 20% of its annual budget to soy new uses. Leveraging combined funds from state and national checkoffs, soy has yielded impressive products, including:

• SynLawn turf

• RePlay asphalt preservation

• Roof Maxx shingle preservation

• Skechers sneakers

• Goodyear Tires

• Soy-based paints

“The goal is to support the early stages of research, development and initial commercialization,” said Gibbs. “Once there’s a market and demand, the products should stand on their own so funding can be used to support the next generation of soy solutions.”

If you’re curious about SoyFoam, how to purchase it for your local fire department or to learn about future investments in soy checkoff innovation, this is a breakout session you won’t want to miss. Cross Plains Solutions will also promote SoyFoam in booth #210.

CHEERS!

BEER & BULL SESSION GETS AG CONVERSATIONS FLOWING AT CORN·SOY EXPO

By Mark Askelson

After a day of educational sessions covering topics ranging from cyber threats to farm succession planning, Wisconsin’s top ag researchers are opening up the mic, tapping the keg and leaving no topics offlimits during the Beer & Bull Session at the annual Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo Feb. 6-7 in Wisconsin Dells.

The format is simple and informal. Farmers are encouraged to grab a free glass of Wisconsin’s finest draft beer and start firing away their ag-related questions to the panel of researchers, including Dr. Shawn Conley, professor of plant and agroecosystem sciences and soybean and wheat Extension specialist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

“I think it’s one of the favorite sessions for the farmers at Corn·Soy Expo and I don’t think it’s just about the free beer,” said Conley, who first began hosting the Beer and Bull session in 2019 and is also a director with the Wisconsin Soybean Association (WSA). “Once the tap starts flowing, the questions start rolling.”

Joining Dr. Conley on the panel from UWMadison is Extension Cropping Systems

Weed Scientist Rodrigo Werle and Damon Smith, assistant professor of plant pathology.

“I joined the panel for the first time last year after we realized some of the questions being I asked I might be better suited for answering,” Werle said. “Each one of us has our own area of expertise.”

ANYTHING GOES

For farmers, such as Janesville’s Doug Rebout, being able to tap into the wealth of research knowledge available at the Beer & Bull Session offers insights bring to their farming operation. The beer is an added bonus.

“This session is special because the people speaking are so dynamic and knowledgeable. That alone makes it worth attending,” said Rebout, vice president of WSA. “Being able to sit, have a beer and talk about it is the icing on the cake.”

Conley allows farmers to ask just about anything they want related to agriculture and he prides himself in answering those questions in a very frank and “no bull” sort of way.

“We answer everything,” said Conley. “Sometimes people don’t like the answer.”

Following the 2024 crop year, Conley and Werle expect to hear a lot of questions pertaining to crop inputs and cost of production, cover crops, herbicide applications and how the incoming Trump administration will impact farm policy.

“A lot of the questions are also systemsbased, which provides us with some insight into the type of questions that farmers want answered,” Werle said. “We can take that information and use it to help shape future research projects.”

Some of the potential checkoff-funded research projects coming down the pipeline may include studies on waterhemp and effective and efficient weed control, more research on cover crops and how to make seeand-spray technologies fit current systems.

“Make sure to show up and come with questions,” Conley said. “We learn a lot based on what you’re asking.”

The Beer & Bull Session is scheduled for 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 6 at Corn·Soy Expo. To see the full agenda or to register, visit www. cornsoyexpo.org.

Dr. Shawn Conley is thirsty for another Beer & Bull Session with Wisconsin farmers.

BIG BEAN ENERGY

2024 WI Soybean Yield Contest Winners to Earn Bragging Rights at Corn·Soy Expo

By Drew Lyon

The Big Bean Energy was off the charts in 2024.

The revamped 2024 Wisconsin Soybean Yield Contest garnered more than 100 participants, the most entries in its 15-year history and a 20% increase from 2023. Dr. Shawn Conley, the University of Wisconsin-Madison small grains specialist who oversees the contest, said the increased involvement underscores producers’ passion for refining their production and sustainability practices.

“It’s great to see farmers working to increase the overall sustainability of their farms through both efficiencies, input management and really working to improve their farming,” said Conley, a director with the Wisconsin Soybean Association, which administers the contest. “They’re not just out there plowing up and down the side of a hill, planting stuff just for profit. Our farmers are trying to do a good job and being good stewards of the land.”

DIVISION 1

1ST: EMILY SLEIK, WAUSHARA COUNTY (88.80 BU/A WITH PIONEER P21A53E)

2ND: DAN SLEIK, WAUSHARA COUNTY (88.23 BU/A WITH PIONEER P22A67E)

DIVISION 4

1ST: DAN KAMPS, LAFAYETTE COUNTY (96.76 BU/A WITH PIONEER P30A75E)

2ND: JASON WEIGEL, GRANT COUNTY (89.72 BU/A WITH BECK’S 2830E3)

Two winners were selected from each of Wisconsin’s four geographical regions, and additional awards include the Planting Green award and New Contestant award. Overall yields were generally down; thus, no entries this year earned a spot in the exclusive 100 Bushel Soybean Club.

The winning producers will take home bragging rights –along with a hard-earned check – Feb. 6 at Corn·Soy Expo during Porkapalooza.

“The farmers love it, they eat it up,” Conley said. “For me, it’s fun watching their faces when they win their awards.”

The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board is a top sponsor of the Yield Contest and will decide during its February board meeting at Corn·Soy Expo if it will invest checkoff resources into the 2025 contest. If approved, information on the 2025 Wisconsin Soybean Yield Contest will be shared this spring.

DIVISION 2

1ST: JOHN WEBB, SAUK COUNTY (91.79 BU/A WITH CROPLAN CP2220E)

2ND: NICK FITZGERALD, MANITOWOC COUNTY (86.40 BU/A WITH NK 14-W6E3)

DIVISION 3

1ST: DON AND DOUG MIDTHUN, COLUMBIA COUNTY (98.54 BU/A WITH ASGROW AG24XF1)

2ND: RYAN BATES, PIERCE COUNTY (78.62 BU/A WITH PIONEER P16Z42E)

NEW CONTEST AWARD PLANTING GREEN AWARD

STEVE STEINHOFF, LAFAYETTE COUNTY (86.77 BU/A WITH ASGROW AG24XF1

TOM NOVAK, IOWA COUNTY (85.22 BU/A WITH AGRIGOLD G2000XF)

TARIFF DAMAGE

AG GROUPS WARN AGAINST TRADE WARS

By Soy Forward staff

With the incoming Trump administration vowing to increase tariffs, soy and corn advocacy communities are issuing warnings prior to Inauguration Day about the potential effects of a renewed trade war with U.S. Soy’s largest trading partner.

“The tit-for-tat tariff dispute may have been quiet the past several years,” said Virginia Houston, director of government affairs with the American Soybean Association (ASA), “but we are keenly aware markets built over decades can be lost overnight.”

An economic study released in late 2024 paints a disturbing picture of the potential results another U.S.China trade war could have on hundreds of thousands of farmers and rural communities, showing Americanimposed tariffs would come at a steep cost to Wisconsin and U.S. producers while benefiting competitors in Brazil and Argentina.

“It’s very important we protect trade with China, and that’s a message we’re sharing with legislators on the Hill and with the next administration,” said Tanner Johnson, who, along with Don Lutz, represents Wisconsin on ASA. “We’re trying to open up new markets and find new uses, but obviously the China market is very difficult to replace.”

The study, commissioned by ASA and the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and conducted by the World Agricultural Economic and Environmental Services, underscores how a trade war sequel would result in an immediate drop in soy and corn exports by hundreds of millions of tons. As a result, Brazil and Argentina would claim the lost market share, which would be extremely difficult for American growers to reclaim in the future.

“We can’t continue to go at these kinds of levels like it’s been the last year,” Lutz said.

ASA and NCGA are both cautioning against a trade war.

“The U.S. agriculture sector is going through a significant economic downturn,” said Scott Gerlt, ASA chief economist. “This work shows that a trade war

would easily compound the adverse conditions that are placing financial stress on farmers. Even when a trade war officially ends, the loss of market share can be permanent.”

The third-party study comes as U.S. lawmakers and officials from both political parties are increasingly looking at tariff-forward approaches as they work to address troubling Chinese trade practices.

During the 2018-2019 trade war, soybean exports dropped by 71% and U.S. ag exports were reduced by $27 billion. Researchers modeled several scenarios that could play out in a new U.S.-China trade war and found a consistent outcome:

• Severe drop in U.S. exports to China. If China cancels its current waiver (from the 2020 Phase I agreement) and reverts to tariffs already on the books, U.S. soybean exports to China would, according to the study, drop 14-16 million metric tons annually, an average decline of 51.8% from baseline levels expected for those years. U.S. corn exports to China would fall to about 2.2 million metric tons annually, an average decline of 84.3% from the baseline expectation.

• Brazil and Argentina would benefit. Brazil and Argentina would increase exports and thus gain valuable global market share. Chinese tariffs on soybeans and corn from the U.S. – but not Brazil –would provide incentive for Brazilian farmers to expand production area even more rapidly than baseline growth.

• No place to turn. While it is possible to divert exports to other nations, the study concluded there is insufficient demand from the rest of the world to offset the major loss of soybean exports to China to support the farmgate value.

The study concluded that a new trade war would lead to a steep drop in soy and corn prices, resulting in a ripple impact across the U.S., particularly in rural economies where farmers live, purchase inputs, use farm and personal services and purchase household goods.

ASA and WSA believe it benefits America’s economic interests to maintain a strong trading relationship with China, even as both governments work through trade and other concerns. They also noted they support thoughtful consideration of the impacts tariffs and tariff retaliation could have on U.S. farms and rural economies that depend on agriculture.

“All the industries in farming communities in Wisconsin, they are here to serve agriculture,” Lutz said.

U.S. soybean farmers in 2023 exported nearly $19 billion in whole soybeans to China (Mexico, the next closest trading partner, accounted for $3 billion in exports). Wisconsin exports nearly $324 million in ag products, mostly soybeans, to China each year.

“Anything to disrupt the relationship with your biggest customer – whether in farming or any other industry – is going to have net negative impacts on business,” Johnson said. “I don’t claim to be an economist, but I really trust our team at ASA and if a study shows that we’re going to have a pretty drastic cut to on-farm income because of trade issues with China, I don’t know if that’s a risk we can weather. Things are already tight here, and tariffs would only add fuel to the fire.”

TRADE TALKS

Learn more about which way the trade winds are blowing during the 2025 Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo. During this year’s final panel, join ASA’s Virginia Houston, National Pork Producers Council President of Government Affairs Maria Zieb and Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Director of International Agribusiness Mark Rhoda-Reis for the Trade Think-Tank Panel Feb. 7 at 1:30 p.m. in Africa West.

Behind the Scenes

To access markets beyond China, the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board (WSMB) and WSA are continuing to grow relationships with buyers in Uzbekistan, Morocco and Europe through promoting routes via the Port of Milwaukee and Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System. WSMB and WSA are also working to promote value-added uses for soy.

“I’m a big proponent of developing industrial products that use soybeans, which helps spread our risk around,” Lutz said. “We’ve got to make our preference known to legislators.”

Don Lutz (pictured here) and Tanner Johnson represent WSA on federal policy issues.

Rural Resilience

FARMERS, MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS ADDRESSING BIG ISSUE AT CORN·SOY EXPO

By Drew Lyon

Farmers have next to zero control over the economic outlook, the cost of inputs or weather forecast. But following advocacy efforts and increased awareness of the toll the farming life puts on agriculture families, professionals are available – both in person and remotely – to help farmers take the first steps in addressing depression and high levels of anxiety.

The message from throughout Wisconsin’s agriculture community is a resounding one: Farmers, you are not alone.

“Farmers are pretty tough people, right? And they’re pretty resilient. They ride the market, they have a ton of stress that they deal with every single day,” said Megan Wolf, a therapist with Southwest Counseling in Lancaster. “We’re here to help them remove the stigma and help with the stress and the time management of being able to take the deep breath and call, make the first move.”

Wolf knows the stresses farmers face every day: She grew up on a hog farm and her office is adjacent to the Wisconsin Pork Association, which approached Wolf and her colleague, Karen Endres, to speak at the 2025 Wisconsin Corn·Soy Expo. During their presentation, the two mental health experts from Wisconsin’s Farmer Wellness Program will discuss how to spot warning signs of depression in family members, friends and farming colleagues; and tips on how to connect them with professional therapists.

“(Going to therapy) is actually a sign of strength,” Wolf said. Wolf and Endres will also be available following their presentation to visit with attendees who wish to visit privately. The two can also meet with farmers at their convenience; rather than hosting them in her office, Wolf often holds sessions with farmers where they’re most comfortable.

“We’re going to help you through this and really just driving that message that you don’t even have to drive to our office,” Wolf said. “We can do telehealth from anywhere. I literally have farmers call from their tractor out in the middle of the field.”

BRINGING CALM TO CHAOS

Suicide rates are 64%-68% higher among people living in rural areas compared to people living in large urban areas. Despite representing only 2% of the population, farmers and ranchers are nearly twice as likely to die by suicide compared to other occupations. In Wisconsin, suicide rates spike by 32% from 2000-2020; suicide is now the third leading cause of the death in the state.

Wolf sees a correlation between depression, substance abuse and daily stressors. And for many farmers, family

More than 50,000 Americans died by suicide in 2023. Therapist Megan Wolf works to raise rural mental health awareness.

Know the signs of depression

• Farm neglect and/or increases in farm-related accidents

• Social withdrawal

• Mood swings

• Sleep disturbances: Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping.

• Appetite changes: Loss of appetite or overeating

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs

• Frequent headaches, muscle aches or digestive issues

• Lack of enthusiasm for activities previously enjoyed

• Negative self-talk

• Giving away possessions

dynamics intersect with business matters.

“This is a pretty chaotic time in life right now as a whole. There’s a lot of tension everywhere you go,” she said. “Just imagine having your own stress and financial stress and trying to keep your farm afloat. … People are trying to cope the best they can and so they’re turning to things to cope with, which ends up getting them in bigger issues.”

Sara Stelter, a farmer and president of the Wisconsin Soybean Association (WSA), is well acquainted with rural mental health issues. As a former social worker in Waushara County, she assisted with on-call mental health crisis intervention, helping to conduct initial assessments. She said a challenging ag economy facing growers in 2025 is increasing pressure on producers.

“We all know that prices are not where they need to be, and that of course adds to a lot of stress to not only the farmer, but the family as well,” she said. “I think it is extremely important that people realize they need to look beyond the stigma or the stereotype, and it’s important to seek out help if you need it.”

The Wisconsin Soybean Program, American Soybean Association and United Soybean Board continue to support spotlighting the importance of rural mental health. Stelter said she’s been struck by the passionate responses to mental health panels at past conferences and expects a full crowd to attend this year’s Corn·Soy Expo mental health session.

“I think the (high turnout) is a real positive sign,” said Stelter, who also directs soy checkoff investments on the United Soybean Board, “but I think what we need to do is to look at the importance of getting help before it becomes a true crisis.”

Wolf and Endres’ hour-long session on Feb. 7 begins at 10 a.m. in Africa West and includes insights from WSA Vice President Doug Rebout.

Resources:

With advocacy support from WSA, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) offers free resources for producers living with high stress or depression.

24/7 Farmer Wellness Helpline: (888) 901-2558

Free, confidential and immediate support any day, any time. Helpline representatives can also make referrals to Farmer Wellness Tele-Counseling Sessions or the Counseling Voucher Program for ongoing, long-term support.

Tele-Counseling

Farmers and their family members can receive free, confidential, and unlimited sessions from a licensed mental health professional online or by phone. Sessions can be requested by contacting the 24/7 Farmer Wellness Helpline.

DATCP also offers Online Farmer and Farm Couple Support Groups on the second Tuesday of every month. These sessions focus on bringing farmers and farm couples together in a safe space to share challenges and offer encouragement and advice. These resources are available to any Wisconsin farmer, farm couple or farm family member. For more information, visit datcp.wi.gov/ and click on “Ag Development.”

“We have so many programs there that, when somebody does get in the need or in a pinch or just really in a dark spot that they are able to reach out and that there is help right here in this state,” Wolf said. “Our state has done a phenomenal job of addressing this.”

Rural Minds

The mission of Rural Minds is to serve as the informed voice for mental health in rural America and to provide mental health information and resources. Its vision is to end the suffering, silence and stigma around mental illness in rural America.

Through checkoff contributions from USB and advocacy backing from ASA, Rural Minds is focused solely on providing the 46 million people in rural America with free information and resources to confront rural mental health challenges and the stigma surrounding mental illness. For more information, visit ruralminds.org.

ROOT REVEAL

Did you know root volume can impact corn yield by as much as 40 Bu./A. depending on the soil fertility system?*

*Data collected and verified from the University of Illinois under Dr. Scott Foxhoven and Dr. Fred Below.

LEARN MORE

Soy Forward Winter 2025

CONTENTS TABLE OF

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sara Daniel Tanner Don Doug Matt Stelter Linse Johnson Lutz Rebout Rehberg

Katie Jake Danny Steve Dr. Shawn Dave Kaczor Steffes Brisky Trzebiatowski Conley Coggins

Sara Stelter

President’s Foreword

Your Team

‘WAIT AND SEE’

MOVES IN MADISON

Annual Meeting at Corn•Soy Expo

2025 Legislative Priorities

PROTECTING YOUR FARM’S FREEDOM TO THRIVE

Transportation Infrastructure

Crop Input Protection

Value-added Uses

Tax Relief

Export Markets Conservation Programs

FINDING HIS VOICE

GOOD TO GO

Behind the Scenes

‘WHY I FARM’: Strength

in Steffes

THE REAL THING

‘THE BEST PART’

More to Come

DOG DAYS:

A farmer’s best friend

By Chip the Dog

Cash in on Cover Crops

WISCONSIN LEADERS ADD INPUT TO UNITED SOYBEAN BOARD

GROWING AS A GROUP

Real ROI

We put soybeans ﬁrst because you put performance ﬁrst.

WISCONSIN CORN • SOY EXPO

A Resilient Mindset

Agenda

Agenda

Agenda

Agenda

Agenda

Venue Map

Exhibitors

Exhibitor / Sponsor

Booth Number

Exhibitors

Exhibitor / Sponsor

Booth Number

Sponsors

porkapalooza

ALWAYS LOOKING UP

WISCONSIN CORN·SOY EXPO WELCOMES ATMOSPHERIC SCIENTIST ERIC SNODGRASS

THE WEATHER WIZARD’S JOURNEY

STAYING AHEAD OF MOTHER NATURE

RIDING THE ROLLERCOASTER TOGETHER

KEY TAKEAWAYS

WEATHER OR NOT

A BUSHEL OF LAUGHS

LOL

STICK TO THE BASICS FAB FIVE

SOYFOAM’S ‘SUCCESS STORY’

INVESTING IN SOY INNOVATION

CHEERS!

BEER & BULL SESSION GETS AG CONVERSATIONS FLOWING AT CORN·SOY EXPO

ANYTHING GOES

BIG BEAN ENERGY

2024 WI Soybean Yield Contest Winners to Earn Bragging Rights at Corn·Soy Expo

TARIFF DAMAGE

AG GROUPS WARN AGAINST TRADE WARS

TRADE TALKS

Behind the Scenes

Rural Resilience

FARMERS, MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS ADDRESSING BIG ISSUE AT CORN·SOY EXPO

BRINGING CALM TO CHAOS

Know the signs of depression

Rural Minds

ROOT REVEAL