Iowa Soybean Review, October 2014 by Iowa Soybean Association

Iowa Soybean Association, 1255 SW Prairie Trail Parkway, Ankeny, Iowa 50023

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The Next 50 Years

IOWA SOYBEAN RESEARCH CENTER: October 2014

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It’s time to take a stand against soybean cyst nematodes.

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Client: Project Group Creative Director: Art Director/Designer: “Headline..” Copywriter: Photographer: Color: 4/C © 2014 Syngenta. Important: Always read and follow label instructions. crop protection products may sale or use in all states or counties. Illustrator: BL: 0.0"Some x 0.0" Proofreader Print Producer Date not be registered for Please check with your local extension service to ensure registration Clariva Complete Beans is an on-seed application of Clariva pn and CruiserMaxx Vibrance. CruiserMaxx Retoucher: TR: status. 0.0" x 0.0" ® ™ ® ® Beans with Vibrance is an on-seed application of CruiserMaxx Vibrance alone or with Apron XL. Apron XL, Clariva, CruiserMaxx, Vibrance, the Alliance Frame, the Purpose Icon and the LV: 0.0" x 0.0" Prepress: Syngenta logo are trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. MW 15154011-G-P1 06/14 Printer: Account Manager Production Lead Art Director/Designer Art Buyer: Martin Williams Job No: Account Manager: XXXX0000 Account Manager: Interaction Planner Client Copywriter 2 | O C T O B EInteraction R 2 0 1Planner: 4 | S O Y B E A N R E V I E W. CLASER O M IS 100% Print Producer: Production Lead:

Iowa Soybean Association

October 2014 | Vol. 27, No. 1

Soybean Center of Attention

It’s the decade of the soybean, according to seed company officials.

Farmers Control Checkoff Dollars Earmarked for Research

Submitting and funding soybean research projects won’t change much initially with the advent of the Iowa Soybean Research Center, but tweaks to improve the process are likely.

Joining Forces for Greater Collaboration and Results

Starting a research center at Iowa State University is not a new concept.

ABOUT THE COVER: Advocates of the Iowa Soybean Research Center say it will provide a more disciplined approach when it comes to funding and identifying prioritydriven research. The goal is to improve soybean competitiveness, the catalyst behind its creation.

On-Farm Network® Continues Trial Success

Since its introduction in 2000, the Iowa Soybean Association’s On-Farm Network has completed thousands of replicated strip trials across Iowa.

Bringing stories to life. There has never been a more exciting time to be involved in the agricultural industry and we look forward to showing you why with IOWA SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION LIVE — an app that brings stories to life in the Iowa Soybean Review. In three easy steps, you’ll get a more in-depth look at Iowa soybean farmers and stories that affect our lives.

Get the ISA LIVE app. Download it to your Apple or Android device by searching for IOWA SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION LIVE from your app store. Its free!

Once downloaded, start the app and hover over any photo that includes the ISA LIVE icon with your mobile device and the movie will begin to play.

Watch as exclusive stories come to life.

Iowa Soybean Association

EXECUTIVE review Kirk Leeds Chief Executive Officer Iowa Soybean Association kleeds@iasoybeans.com Twitter@kirkleeds

Milestones I think I am beginning to understand why as we get older, people have a tendency to become more reflective about life and this “one and done” journey. I guess is that it happens when you realize you most likely have more yesterdays than tomorrows. 2014 has included a number of important milestones for the Leeds family. My wife and I celebrated two of our kids graduating from Iowa State University (ISU). After graduation, our son got his first “real job,” and our daughter started medical school. Our middle daughter is entering her last year of classes at ISU before she starts student teaching next fall. Our “baby” graduated from high school this spring and began her four year journey at ISU this fall. I guess Kim and I knew that we would soon be “empty nesters,” but for some reason, I wasn’t prepared for how fast it happened. It really was “just yesterday” when she headed off to kindergarten.

But 2014 has also been a year for milestones with the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA). This fall marks my 25th year working for Iowa’s soybean farmers as a staff member of ISA. When I joined the ISA team in 1989, I had absolutely no idea that this journey would last as long as it has. I came to ISA because I wanted to try something different after spending my early days managing grocery stores, running political campaigns and running for political office. Working for ISA seemed like a great way to transition to a new career. The work has been challenging and rewarding, the staff I have worked alongside have been second to none, and the farmers that I have worked for and with have simply been the best. It truly feels like it was “just yesterday” when I began this journey with ISA. Thank you for this opportunity to serve Iowa’s soybean farmers.

American Soybean Association Directors Ray Gaesser, Corning Dennis Bogaards, Pella Wayne Fredericks, Osage John Heisdorffer, Keota Mark Jackson, Rose Hill United Soybean Board Directors Laura Foell, Schaller Delbert Christensen, Audubon Larry Marek, Riverside Jim Stillman, Emmetsburg

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The Iowa Soybean Review is published eight times a year by: black white Iowa Soybean Association no gradients BLACK WHITE 1255 SW Prairie Trail Parkway, Ankeny, Iowa 50023 Phone: (515) 251-8640 Web address: www.soybeanreview.com E-mail: aclinton@iasoybeans.com C0 M0 Y0 K0

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For advertising information in the Iowa Soybean Review, please contact Larson Enterprises, (515)440-2810 or larson6@mchsi.com. Comments and statewide news articles should be sent to the above address. Advertising space reservations must be made by the first day of the month preceding publication. In consideration of the acceptance of the advertisement, the agency and the advertiser must, in respect of the contents of the advertisement, indemnify and save the publisher harmless against any expense arising from claims or actions against the publisher because of the publication of the content of the advertisement.

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Farmers adopt technology

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Iowa Soybean Association can also be found on these sites:stacked logo (for sharing only)

Policy Priorities for 2015

ISA Contract Lobbyist Jill Altringer and ISA Policy Director Carol Balvanz invite farmers to join them at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines during the 2014 Legislative session.

By Policy Director Carol Balvanz

Each year the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) surveys its policy members on the issues they see as important for legislative and regulatory work. This year, 380 members responded to the producer survey, and provided not only issue rankings, but also comments that will inform the work of ISA’s Public Affairs committee in 2015. The ISA Board of Directors reviewed the survey results at their recent meeting and the survey results have also been thoroughly reviewed at the ISA District Policy Conferences, held across the state.

The top five issues clearly identified as impacting the future profitability of soybean producers: • The condition of roads/bridges/locks and dams • EPA regulatory pressure on farmers • Maintaining the Renewable Fuels Standard at current or growing levels • Building Iowa’s Nutrient Strategy as a volunteer water quality program • Reducing the federal debt and deficit

The top five issues ISA members would like ISA to research further include how to: • Cut through political barriers to improve road and bridge infrastructure • Advance the renewable fuels industry. • Protect private property rights in the current political environment • Grow Iowa’s livestock industry and limit further regulations on livestock farmers • Resolve the future of biotechnology within our foreign trade efforts

While these two lists have many common features, they reveal that soybean farmers have a keen interest in solving problems and providing input for government decision makers. These lists also provide direction as ISA looks to partner and build coalitions with other organizations to find solutions. In a special section of the survey, we asked farmers specific questions about participation in cost share programs for nutrient management and conservation. The numbers showed that cost share programs, while strongly utilized by producers, don’t have sufficient dollars to meet demand. More than 280 of our 380 respondents indicated they would be interested in a state income tax credit for installing qualified practices, and 250 of those stated they would be willing to submit a conservation plan to qualify for the credit. Overall, there was strong support for increased state investment in the state nutrient strategy. In another item of interest, 261 farmers answered that they had made their own private investment in water quality practices within the past two years, with investments ranging from under $10,000 to more than $25,000. ISA members are also becoming more politically active, with 360 of the respondents indicating they had either spoken with their state legislator or their congressional representatives about agricultural issues within the past 12 months. This is more than a 40% increase over last year. As issues become more complex and legislators further removed from actual farm operations, that contact will become increasingly important. This information is the first step in crafting policy proposals for 2015. As the survey is digested by the ISA board and the District Advisory Councils, additional policy language will emerge to be debated at the 2014 State Policy Conference in Des Moines on December 18. For more information or a copy of survey results, contact me at 515-669-9174.

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Invest An Acre Makes Positive Impact for Food Insecure in Rural Communities Iowa soybean farmers can help the food insecure in their own communities through Invest An Acre. Invest An Acre, a project of Feeding America, the Howard G. Buffett Foundation and the Iowa Food Bank Association (IFBA), launched last month with the support of Iowa’s soybean farmers. Invest An Acre provides farmers a convenient way to donate an acre or more of crops to help fight hunger. Proceeds from the program go directly to the food banks serving the area where the contribution was made. It has distributed $1.7 million to food banks across rural America. Farmers can participate in the program with the goal of generating $50,000 in contributions for Iowa food banks. Funds donated by farmers are matched by Monsanto and Farm Credit Services of America. By gifting grain, farmers can make an immediate and positive impact in rural communities — places where food insecurity is often overlooked, says IFBA director Cory Berkenes.

The donation process is simple: 1. When you bring your crops to your local elevator, tell the operator that you’d like to donate a portion of your proceeds to Invest An Acre. To help expedite the gifting, download a donation form and provide it to the first purchaser; forms can be accessed at: http://www.investanacre.com/wp-content/ uploads/2014/01/IAA-Donation-Form.pdf. Please note: affiliated cooperatives ADM, Cargill and MFA do not require a donation form.

2. Your local elevator will make your donation to Invest An Acre and deduct the amount from your total crop proceeds. 3. Monsanto and Farm Credit will match your donation. 4. Feeding America will distribute 100 percent of your donation — plus the matching gift — to your local food bank. 5. Feeding America will send you a receipt for your donation. Feeding America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit recognized by the IRS and your donation to the Invest An Acre program 6. Visit www.investanacre.com for more information. If you have questions or need assistance, contact Feeding America at 877-267-6547.

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Iowa Soybean Association

Board of Directors Elects 2015 Officers Five farmers were elected to leadership positions at the Sept. 4 meeting of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) board of directors. Tom Oswald of Cleghorn took his seat as president and Wayne Fredericks of Osage was elected presidentelect. Jeff Jorgenson of Sidney was chosen as treasurer and Rolland Schnell of Newton was elected secretary. Ben Schmidt of Iowa City was also elected to the executive committee. ISA directors re-elected John Heisdorffer of Keota to represent Iowa on the American Soybean Association

TOM OSWALD PRESIDENT Cleghorn

WAYNE FREDERICKS PRESIDENT-ELECT Osage

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(ASA) board of directors. Fredericks was elected to serve the remaining year of the vacant Iowa spot on the ASA board of directors. “Iowa soybean farmers look to these leaders as they work to be more efficient and productive on their own farms,” says Oswald. “ISA plays an important role in agriculture, from state to national to international levels; working to secure and strengthen new and existing markets for soybeans and support our farmers as they continue to be the leaders in national soybean production.”

JEFF JORGENSON TREASURER Sidney

ROLLAND SCHNELL SECRETARY Newton

BEN SCHMIDT AT LARGE Iowa City

Pioneer® brand T Series Soybeans are built to produce and protect yield. The traits and technologies in T Series Soybeans can help break your yield records with top performers that fit your ground to a ‘T.’ For more info talk to your Pioneer sales professional. Pioneer.com/Tseries

Pioneer Premium Seed Treatment for soybeans is applied at a DuPont Pioneer production facility or by an independent sales representative of Pioneer. Not all sales representatives offer treatment services, and costs and other charges may vary. See your Pioneer sales representative for details. Seed treatment offering exclusive to DuPont Pioneer and its affiliates. The DuPont Oval Logo is a registered trademark of DuPont. PiONeer® brand products are provided subject to the terms and conditions of purchase which are part of the labeling and purchase documents. ® TM SM , , Trademarks and service marks of Pioneer. © 2014 PHii. DUPPSY14018VAr1_110114_iSr O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4 | S OY B E A N R E V I E W. C O M | 9

High Oleic Soybeans May Bring High Prices By Carrie Laughlin

High oleic soybeans are not yet available in Iowa, but soon, this top-performing variety will create new markets for U.S. soybean oil, which means higher prices for soybean farmers. Plenish® high oleic soybeans offer an added bonus beyond high-yielding, agronomic performance. Containing 0g trans-fat, less saturated fat and the highest amount of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat available in soy oil, Plenish will appeal to consumers demanding healthier ingredients in their food. Farmers will not have to sacrifice agronomic performance as high oleic soybeans are bred with proven genetics to perform as well as other DuPont Pioneer varieties. Steve Schnebly, senior research manager at DuPont Pioneer, says they have worked very hard to make sure Plenish soybeans are successful. “We’ve really strived to make sure their agronomic tract is on par with our other varieties,” Schnebly says. “High oleic soybeans have to have soybean cyst nematode (SCN) and sudden death syndrome (SDS) resistance, along with white mold and Phytophthora. So far, it has demonstrated well in Ohio and Indiana for the last two years. Our high oleic soybeans contracted on the East Coast are also performing.”

Schnebly says the benefit to growing high oleic soybeans is two-fold. “There’s been a loss of soybean oil to consumers recently, and by growing high oleic soybeans, we’ll be able to maintain a soybean oil base in the long-term,” Schnebly says. “There is also a premium being offered, which provides an additional income opportunity if the yields are on par with other soybean varieties.” The soy checkoff anticipates that by 2023 farmers will plant 18 million acres of high oleic soybeans. If farmers reach that goal, all U.S. farmers stand to gain 66 cents a bushel, on top of the premiums paid to farmers currently growing them, which could add up to an additional $3,200 for every 100 acres of soybeans grown. There are no programs currently set for release in Iowa in the next year. Research and on-farm trials are currently underway in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. To be notified when high oleic soybeans will be available in your area, visit soyinnovaiton.com/varietal-availability.

The soy checkoff anticipates that by 2023 farmers will plant 18 million acres of high oleic soybeans.

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INNOVATION THAT GROWS The yield you want, the demand you need – that’s high oleic. With high oleic soybeans, you can take back the market share you lost to canola and other crops. High oleic are top-performing varieties packed with innovation your end-use customers want. From supermarket food brands to restaurant chains, high oleic soybeans offer you more market opportunities. Grow it now, and you grow your proﬁtability. Talk to your local seed rep for the best varieties in your area or visit SoyInnovation.com

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SOY TALK

Making the Grade

Like explorers blazing a trail for future settlement, a soybean seed planted in the eld has endured an extremely arduous journey through years of research. “Our goal is to release the ultimate variety that is better than what’s on the market right now, whether it is better yield, or disease or insect traits that aren’t currently available,” says Mycogen Seeds soybean breeder Dennis Schultze. “At any point in the yield testing phase, varieties that do not exceed what is currently on the market get “Only about 0.2 percent thrown out.”

of [soybean] lines ever become commercially available.”

Mycogen Seeds has a comprehensive and state-of-the-art soybean breeding program, complete with seven stations throughout the United States and Canada. There also are winter breeding programs in Puerto Rico and Chile.

Schultze says tens of thousands of new varieties are yield tested, but only about 0.2 percent, or one in 500 varieties, of those lines ever make it to become commercially available. Soybean breeding is a ve- to six-year process. At every step, a potential variety must meet multiple requirements. “If you compare it to education, a soybean variety must get an A on every test to continue through the process,” Schultze adds. “For example, at the Minnesota breeding station, one of the characteristics we focus on is soybean cyst nematode resistance. Every variety is screened to make sure it has a marker for cyst resistance. If a plant does not, it is automatically discarded.” After the lab and nursery testing is complete, varieties move to yield testing. In addition to yield, researchers look for characteristics such as disease tolerance and lodging resistance. Field evaluations are vital because they mimic what farmers are doing in their elds. This allows researchers to collect the information farmers need to make seed decisions. “We can have new varieties in the hands of farmers in ve to six years,” Schultze says. “Fifteen years ago, it took twice as long. What Mycogen Seeds is doing from a breeding standpoint all boils down to the farmer and what works on his acres.”

Brought to you by:

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Iowa Soybeans are Driving Success Soybean farmers and the Iowa Hawkeyes football team have a lot in common this year — both rely on clean-burning biodiesel to get to the field. The Hawkeyes’ team bus is powered by a 5 percent blend of Iowa-grown biodiesel (B5). The fuel is better for the environment because it burns cleaner, reduces harmful emissions and has little to no odor, as compared to regular petroleum diesel fuel. This makes the air cleaner for all Iowans on and off the field. “Iowa farmers excel at providing food, fuel and fiber,” says Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) President Tom Oswald, who farms near Cleghorn. “Biodiesel is a win for the state’s economy and environment. Teaming up with the Hawkeyes to improve air quality by using America’s first advanced biofuel is a victory for all Iowans.” University of Iowa Athletics Director Gary Barta says the Hawkeye family recognizes the continuous improvement of farmers and the quality products they grow and provide. “We have a great respect for the role farmers play in feeding and fueling our state and the Hawkeye Nation,” he says. “We’re proud to partner with the Iowa Soybean Association. They’re a great addition to Hawkeye Game Day activities.” Iowa’s biodiesel industry includes 13 processing plants that support more than 5,000 jobs and contribute $400 million to Iowa’s gross domestic product annually, making Iowa the leading biodiesel state. Soybean, corn and livestock farmers all benefit from biodiesel production. “The farm community knows how important biodiesel is to the state,” says Oswald. “Now, we’re getting a chance to show a broader audience.” The ISA and Iowa soybean farmers are honored to sponsor the Hawkeyes’ team bus and the biodiesel it runs on.

YOU WERE MEANT FOR THIS. When all the planting, feeding and protecting grow into more than just your yield. More than a job well done — it’s a realization. That this is what you were meant to do. We’re with you. It’s what Mycogen Seeds is all about. A shared passion for the life of your land. For the life that you love. Visit

to maximize the potential of your corn and soybeans.

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Study Shows Iowans Widely Support Expanding Biodiesel Policy By Jenna Higgins Rose

New research shows Iowans overwhelmingly support the renewable fuels market. Seventy-seven percent of registered voters surveyed said they support expanding the federal Renewable Fuel Standard to increase biodiesel in the fuel supply. Almost as many also said a Congressional candidate’s support for the RFS was an important factor in their voting decisions. The Iowa Biodiesel Board commissioned the survey as part of its annual public opinion research. Public opinion research firm Moore Information conducted the online survey of 517 registered voters Aug 11-15. The study shows Iowans have a positive opinion about biodiesel in general. Additionally, after a series of questions on biodiesel, they were highly supportive of expanding the RFS. The 77 percent figure came in response to the question, “Do you support or oppose expanding the national Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires blending some renewable fuels into the nation's fuel supply, to increase biodiesel use in the United States?”

“

It is uplifting to know that Iowans are with us.

— GRANT KIMBERLEY, executive director

of the Iowa Biodiesel Board

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”

What’s more, 69 percent said a Congressional candidate’s position on the RFS was “very” or “somewhat” important. There are four U.S. House seats and one U.S. Senate seat up for election in Iowa. Biodiesel advocates have asked for Congress’s help in speaking up for biodiesel. A pending Environmental Protection Agency decision would slash the RFS biodiesel target far below last year’s production of nearly 1.8 billion gallons. “Many of our biodiesel businesses have the pressure of an uncertain market weighing heavily on them right now,” said Grant Kimberley, executive director of the Iowa Biodiesel Board. “It is uplifting to know that Iowans are with us. They are behind strong federal policy to buoy this young industry in the torrents of the oil industry’s opposition.” Kimberley called the RFS highly effective energy policy, accomplishing exactly what Congress intended. It has created jobs, reduced emissions and built domestic sources of energy. Biodiesel is made from a variety of resources including soybean oil, recycled cooking oil and animal fats. It is the first EPA-designated Advanced Biofuel to reach commercialscale production nationwide.

ASGROW.COM/GAMECHANGER

PENDING REGULATORY APPROVALS

YOUR FIELDS NEXT.

Another advancement in soybean technology is on the horizon. Q: What feature of Roundup Ready 2 Q: Why will this system benefit you Xtend™ soybeans, pending regulatory and other farmers in your area? approvals, are you most excited about?

Kevin Gerlach Soybean Farmer Nevada, Iowa

The next game-changer from Asgrow® brand is already changing the game for farmers participating in our Ground Breakers® Field Trials Under Permit program. These farmers have taken a closer look at the latest high-yielding approach to weed control under development.

A: For more than 10 years, I’ve been growing Asgrow® soybeans. I’m a farmer for the Roundup Ready® Xtend Crop System Ground Breakers® Field Trials Under Permit program because I want to be innovative with my farming operations and see the latest technology firsthand that might be coming to market. I like what I see so far with these soybeans. Since they’re designed to be tolerant to dicamba and glyphosate, they can give me more options for controlling weed challenges.

Q: How is the Roundup Ready® Xtend Crop System helping you achieve clean fields? A: The Roundup Ready® Xtend Crop System can control waterhemp. Farmers will need to be knowledgeable about this system as some of the spray application requirements will be different than what they’re used to. Overall though, the application flexibility of the system that the glyphosate and dicamba tolerance has already provided in field trials and can provide us in the future, pending regulatory approvals, may greatly improve our ability to manage these tough weeds.

A: The flexibility to spray both pre- and postemergence is beneficial, especially with the challenging weather we’ve experienced lately. This year in field trials, for example, we sprayed waterhemp with dicamba, and within 48 hours we began to see results — that’s pretty impressive.

Q: What are you most looking forward to about this system coming to market? A: After seeing this Roundup Ready® Xtend Crop System in action this past year, I’m most excited about the control it can offer to our weed-management system and the ability to manage potential weed resistance with another mode of action. Once the products receive regulatory approvals, they will offer us an effective tool, using dicamba, to combat tough weeds. The Roundup Ready® Xtend Crop System will offer us solutions we need.

“The flexibility to spray both pre- and postemergence is beneficial, especially with the challenging weather we’ve experienced lately.” TO START CHANGING THE GAME ON YOUR FARM, WORK WITH YOUR EXPERT ASGROW DEALER This information is for educational purposes only and is not an offer to sell Roundup Xtend™, XtendiMax™, Bollgard II® XtendFlex™ or Roundup Ready 2 Xtend™.These products are not yet registered or approved for sale or use anywhere in the United States. Commercialization is dependent on multiple factors, including successful conclusion of the regulatory process. The information presented herein is provided for educational purposes only, and is not and shall not be construed as an offer to sell, or a recommendation to use, any unregistered pesticide for any purpose whatsoever. It is a violation of federal law to promote or offer to sell an unregistered pesticide. Individual results may vary, and performance may vary from location to location and from year to year. This result may not be an indicator of results you may obtain as local growing, soil and weather conditions may vary. Growers should evaluate data from multiple locations and years whenever possible. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Asgrow and the A Design®, Asgrow®, Ground Breakers®, Roundup Ready 2 Xtend™ and Roundup Ready® are trademarks of Monsanto Technology LLC. ©2014 Monsanto Company.

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Investing Checkoff Dollars

Iowa Ag Water Alliance to Accelerate

Pace, Scale of Water Quality Improvement Accelerating the pace and scale of quantifiable water quality improvements in Iowa is the mission of the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance (IAWA) launched recently agricultural and environmental stakeholders at a news conference in Des Moines. Created and funded by Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Soybean Association and Iowa Pork Producers Association, the alliance (www.iowaagwateralliance.com) will increase farmer awareness of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy and their adoption of science-based practices proven to have environmental benefits. Gov. Terry Branstad, Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds, Iowa Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey and Iowa Department of Natural Resources Director Chuck Gipp participated in the announcement held at the Iowa State Capitol. They recognized the critical role farmers play in the strategy’s success and the role IAWA will serve in facilitating their engagement and participation. “Farmers are problem solvers and they rise to any challenge,” Branstad says. “Iowa’s approach to positively impacting water quality as established in the nutrient reduction strategy is unprecedented nationally in both its scope and scale. The alliance will generate additional momentum to the benefit of all Iowans, rural and urban.” The non-profit alliance is headquartered at the Iowa Soybean Association in Ankeny. It’s governed by a board of directors chaired by ISA CEO Kirk Leeds. Craig Floss, Iowa Corn CEO, serves as vice chair while Rich Degner, Iowa Pork Producers CEO, serves as secretary-treasurer. Additional board members will be added. “A simplistic, regulatory scheme will not improve water quality nor will another marketing campaign touting the importance of farming,” Leeds says. “Serious matters demand a serious approach and farmers are committed to achieving results. The IAWA is one more example of their readiness to invest private resources to make a real and meaningful impact.” Organization leaders say the alliance will leverage private partnerships and investments to ramp up public support. The nutrient reduction strategy, they say, is still in its early 1 6 | O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4 | S O Y B E A N R E V I E W. C O M

implementation and private support is critical to boost longterm investments and progress. Sean McMahon will serve as IAWA executive director. He lives in Cumming, Iowa and previously directed The Nature Conservancy’s (TNC) North America Agriculture Program. He also served as state director of the Iowa Chapter of TNC and prior to that, directed national land stewardship campaigns with the National Wildlife Federation. McMahon says he relishes the opportunity to serve, adding that the effort will take time and many partners and collaborators to achieve the necessary reductions in nutrient loss at the scale that’s needed. “I welcome the opportunity to lead such a unique and important effort because I care deeply about Iowa’s natural resources and improving our water quality for current and future generations of Iowans,” says McMahon, who began his role with IAWA Sept.15. “Iowa producers have a crucial role to play in helping meet the growing domestic and international demand for food, feed, fiber and fuel and they can do so in an increasingly sustainable manner. “I look forward to drawing upon my experiences and relationships in both the agricultural and environmental communities to help make significant improvements in Iowa’s water quality.” One of McMahon’s first responsibilities will be to hire additional IAWA staff including a programproject manager and communications manager. In addition to increasing awareness of the nutrient strategy and increasing the adoption rate of conservation practices, the team will: • Enhance understanding by the public and key decision makers about the needed flexibility in addressing nonpoint nutrient sources impacting water quality; • Support Iowa State University and other committed partners in developing environmental performance metrics and measurements supported by credible data; • Secure significant funding from public and private sources to accomplish the IAWA’s mission and goals. The Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy approved last year is a science-based initiative to reduce nitrate and phosphorous loads in Iowa waterways from point and nonpoint sources by 45 percent.

Investing Checkoff Dollars

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SOYBEAN CENTER

of Attention By Matthew Wilde

“

The idea is to eliminate redundancy, identify opportunities and capture synergies to improve soybean production in the state.

”

— DR. GREG TYLKA, Center Director, ISU professor of plant pathology and nematologist

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Investing Checkoff Dollars

ISA’s Tristan Mueller identifies a soybean disease at an ISU research farm near Boone.

t’s the decade of the soybean, according to seed company officials. Farmers, researchers and industry officials believe the newly opened Iowa Soybean Research Center at Iowa State University (ISU) will help make the bold statement a reality. he Iowa Board of Regents unanimously approved the center in June, which will be housed in Agronomy Hall on the ISU campus. It’s a partnership between the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and ISU that will facilitate collaboration between public and private entities regarding research and education needs related to soybean production. A coordinated approach to research will enhance a revolution that’s coming in soybean production, says Will Cornelius, soybean lead at Cornelius Seed in Bellevue. The independent seed company’s website says many biotech traits and genetic advances will be made available in the next few years. The center could play an integral part. “I think it’s a great idea to align university researchers with industry and farmers. We need that,” says Will Cornelius, whose company launched a new soybean brand this past year. Advocates say the center will provide a more disciplined approach when it comes to funding and identifying prioritydriven research, including projects funded by the soybean checkoff. The goal is to improve soybean competitiveness, the catalyst behind its creation. From 2001-2012, soybean acreage in Iowa declined by

about 1.65 million acres, data shows. The center will help reverse that trend. “The path forward is to build upon past successes in developing and delivering the very best and most appropriately aligned and prioritized basic and applied research to meet farmer and soybean industry needs, says Dr. Ed Anderson, ISA senior director of supply & production systems. “We want to bring farmers, soybean industry representatives, academics and ISA officials to the table. This will induce good dialogue and meaningful strategic planning around what are todays’ and future priority needs for soybean farmers,” he continues. “We hope to accomplish this in a rigorous, accountable fashion to deliver the best research results.”

New heights

Historically, soybean yields have annually increased about .4 bushels per acre, data indicates. Corn, on the other hand, has enjoyed a yearly average yield bump of 1.5 bushels per acre. Anderson and others believe soybeans can do better. The center was primarily developed to bring a sense of urgency, leadership, discipline and accountability to research programs. Anderson says an annual yield jump of .6 bushels per acre, on average, for soybeans is a possibility in 10 years. He says two-thirds of the yield gain will come from improvements in base germ plasm. Genetics and yield [ Continued on page 20 ] O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4 | S OY B E A N R E V I E W. C O M | 1 9

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DR. WENDY WINTERSTEEN, dean of ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

protection — disease, pest and biotic and abiotic stressers — research will likely be an early emphasis of the center. About one-third of the yield gain will come from agronomic improvements, Anderson adds. A collaboration of center and multi-state projects will study the best products and production practices. Research funded by the North Central Soybean Research Program promises to play a significant role. “These are aggressive goals, but I don’t think they are too lofty. They are attainable with a lot of discipline and focus,” Anderson says.

Getting to work

Center Director Dr. Greg Tylka, also an ISU professor of plant pathology and nematologist, is in the process of assembling a staff, which includes an operations manager and on-farm research and extension coordinator. He hopes to fill both positions by the end of the year. The operations manager will handle day-to-day activities of the center, budgeting and help manage research projects, among other things. The on-farm research and extension coordinator will work with Tristan Mueller, ISA’s On-Farm Network® operations manageragronomic research, and ISU Extension field agronomists. “We recognize all along that on-farm research is

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needed to validate or verify many of our research findings,” Tylka says. The center will be funded by the ISA through the soybean checkoff, ISU via state funding to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the Agriculture Experiment Station and industry contributions. Anderson estimates ISA’s annual contribution will range from $100,000 to $500,000. Once the staff is in place, a strategic plan will be written with the goals of the center in mind. Tylka and Anderson are putting together a list of candidates to be on a center advisory council, which will be approved by Dr. Wendy Wintersteen, dean of ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. The council will consist of farmers, industry officials (seed, crop protection, etc.), service providers, researchers and academia. The council won’t be an oversight committee, but provide advice, input and guidance. “We want a shared vision,” Tylka says. “The idea is to eliminate redundancy and identify opportunities and capture synergies to improve soybean production in the state.” Anderson and Tylka plan to visit agriculture companies to gauge interest in the center and possible partnerships. Monsanto Soybean Industry Affairs Lead Mindy Whittle is excited about what the center will do for soybean

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production. Though no specific deal has been struck between the center and the company, Whittle says it’s a natural fit given that ISU is a key collaborator on projects. Whittle says Monsanto is committed to improving soybean yields and competitiveness in a sustainable way. “We continue to say this is the decade of the soybean. We value the collaboration this center will bring. By pooling resources and knowledge, we can achieve so much more.”

The future

ISA farmer leaders have approved nearly $49.5 million worth of soybean research at ISU since the early 1970s. Checkoff-funded research at ISU has led to higher-yielding soybean varieties, better plant resistance to diseases and pests and improved management practices. According to the latest independent study paid for by the United Soybean Board (USB), every checkoff dollar earns farmers $5.20. “The goal of the center is to help drive efficiency and effectiveness to get an even greater return on investment for the next 50 years,” Anderson says. ISA President Tom Oswald, who farms near Cleghorn, believes the center will do just that. With a growing world

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population hungry for more soy-based protein, Oswald says the center will help Iowa farmers be in position to benefit from increased demand. “We have to focus on what is the outcome for the farmer and what research will impact the ability to compete,” Oswald says. Timely research and production advice are key elements farmers want from the center, Oswald says. A lack of information of how to manage soybean aphids in 2003 is a good example, Oswald says. The yield-robbing pest significantly reduced soybean yields statewide. “Farmers didn’t know what to do. Through the center, more people will be involved to quickly act,” he says. “Under this model, we won’t end up with voids of information.” As ISA celebrates its 50th anniversary, ISA officials say the center is a natural next step to meet the needs of soybean growers for decades to come. With changes in production agriculture during the last 50 years that includes biotechnology, precision farming using GPS and “big data,” just to name a few, Oswald says a center to coordinate information and research is a must. “It’s a new approach to making soybeans more competitive,” he says.

It’s a new approach to making soybeans more competitive.

”

— TOM OSWALD, ISA president, farmer near Cleghorn, pictured in an ISU research plot.

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Farmers Control Checkoff Dollars Earmarked for Research By Matthew Wilde

ubmitting and funding soybean research projects won’t change much initially with the advent of the Iowa Soybean Research Center, but tweaks to improve the process are likely. The center, a partnership between the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and Iowa State University (ISU), will facilitate collaboration between public and private entities regarding research and education related to soybean production. More than a year in the making, it was approved in June by the Iowa Board of Regents. The goal of the center is to improve competitiveness of soybeans by identifying priority-driven research. A more disciplined approach will be taken when funding projects, center officials say, especially those bankrolled by the soybean checkoff. But that doesn’t mean wholesale changes are on tap, according to Dr.

Ed Anderson, ISA senior director of supply and production systems. The ISA Board will still approve and monitor all checkoff-funded projects as before. “Farmers like to be engaged. I don’t see them giving up the opportunity to make funding decisions,” he says. “But there are opportunities to refine the process.” Once the center has a strategic plan, staff is hired and an advisory council in place, Anderson foresees a few pilot projects will be coordinated by the center. Eventually, all soybean research could flow through the center, officials say. This will ensure farmers and industry are getting important information related to soybean production and competitiveness. The ISA Board will likely fund more aligned, timely and collaborative projects, officials say. Project

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accountability will be stepped up. The center may coordinate or partner with universities and groups, such as the North Central Soybean Research Program. By combining resources and sharing information, Anderson says the entire industry benefits. “The projects and researchers that are successful tend to be highly collaborative, interdisciplinary, interinstitutional and really important to the industry. That’s our goal, and farmers want that too,” Anderson says. Wayne Fredericks, ISA Presidentelect who farms near Osage, believes the center will yield better quality research projects that provide more direct benefits to farmers. Since checkoff dollars ebb and flow with commodity prices, he says the center will play a vital role attracting more funding from ag companies as industry and academia

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work together via the center. “If we have industry at the table, they may see an opportunity to help and invest. This could be a win-win situation,” Fredericks says. A meeting within the past two years in Kansas City about ways to mitigate sudden death syndrome is a good example of farmers, researchers and industry working together, says Fredericks, ISA Supply Committee chair. Fredericks participated in the discussions. The energy level was exceptional, Fredericks recalls, as the groups shared ideas on how to manage the yield-robbing disease. Researchers heard first-hand production struggles and used it to refocus efforts. “It just totally changed the concept of what researchers were thinking about,” he says. Dr. Wendy Wintersteen, dean of ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, says better coordination of university research proposals will result from the center. It will provide the framework for more efficient and effective use of checkoff dollars. “The center will provide a formal mechanism whereby Iowa soybean farmers and Iowa soybean industry members can provide feedback and

directions on the research needs in the state,” Wintersteen says. Since more research projects are proposed to ISA each year than there are checkoff dollars to fund, Wintersteen hopes the center will garner more industry funding. Plus, additional financial support is crucial when it comes to buying soybean research equipment. Checkoff dollars can’t be used for this purpose. ISA CEO Kirk Leeds believes the center will have a bigger impact on the overall quality of research projects than on the funding process. While funding will remain the same on the ISA end, proposals will be more targeted to specific research needs as identified by farmers, industry leaders and world class academic researchers. The center may have experts at its disposal to help review and shape soybean research proposals. Improving efficiency and return on investment is a goal. “Better research starts with deeper conversations about the most pressing needs of Iowa’s soybean farmers,” Leeds says. “The soybean center will cause these conversations to take place.”

The center will provide a formal mechanism whereby Iowa soybean farmers and Iowa soybean industry members can provide feedback and directions on the research needs in the state. — DR. WENDY WINTERSTEEN, dean of ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

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New Center Builds

Relationships & Excitement By Dorothy Tate

The announcement of the Iowa Soybean Research Center at Iowa State University (ISU) has sparked a lot of excitement and discussions not only among farmers, but also among the industry partners that play a key role in advancing the soybean industry. Dr. Greg Tylka, director of the Iowa Soybean Research Center, says that one of the long-term goals of the center is to forge relationships to drive the center’s focus and benefit the Iowa soybean industry. “The Iowa Soybean Research Center will help public research and private companies by identifying the needs of the Iowa soybean farmer,” says Tylka. ”They can then work together to garner financial resources to support soybean-related research and education activities that are needed but may not be appropriate for funding by the soybean checkoff.” Industry partners are intrigued and excited about the possibilities. “We think the launch of the soybean research center is very positive because we are all pulling toward the same goal—farmer profitability,” says David Thompson, national marketing and sales director at Stine Seed. “There are certain projects that are probably even too big for any one company

DR. GREG TYLKA, Center Director, ISU professor of plant pathology and nematologist

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in our business to tackle and those are great opportunities for the soybean center to step in and help us navigate that path. Coordinating efforts is a positive thing for the industry and the only way we can become the supplier of choice for the world is for us to all pull in the same direction.” John Latham, president of Latham Hi-Tech Seeds, sees the center as an extension and expansion of the already thriving working relationship the company has with the Iowa Soybean Association and ISU. He believes that the center will be a great way for seed companies, farmers and universities to collaborate, particularly around solving current soybean production challenges. “The center could help discover ways to reduce and eliminate pressure from pests that limit soybean yields in this region,” says Latham. “We believe the center will be a valuable tool for Iowa farmers and welcome the opportunity to work on joint projects that can help our customers grow higher-yielding soybeans.” Tylka looks forward to working with industry partners as the center moves forward. “We can forage mutual relationships that will ultimately serve to further the efforts of all entities—public or private—and benefit Iowa soybean farmers.”

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DR. MANJIT MISRA, director of the Seed Science Center

Joining Forces for Greater Collaboration and Results By Dorothy Tate

Starting a research center at Iowa State University (ISU) is not a new concept. In fact the university currently houses a handful of agriculture related centers that do a wide array of research across many areas. The new Iowa Soybean Research Center will join this group and gain opportunities to collaborate, interface on projects and share resources. “The Iowa Soybean Research Center will look to coordinate and leverage available resources—research time and money—by partnering with other entities on campus that conduct research on soybean-related topics,” says Dr. Greg Tylka, the center’s director. According to Tylka, there are a couple centers at ISU poised for initial collaboration—the Seed Science Center and the Center for Arthropod Management Technologies (CAMTech). Dr. Bryony Bonning, director of CAMTech at ISU, says CAMTech has a strong interest in soybean related studies and expects to work closely with the Iowa Soybean Center, particularly dealing with the soybean cyst nematode (SCN). “The CAMTech membership includes seven of the largest agricultural biotechnology companies, most of which have specific interests in soybean-related research,” says Bonning. “A primary mission of the center is to align university research with the needs of our industry members for the market sector. Participation in CAMTech activities by Dr. Tylka provides an outstanding opportunity for networking

toward strong public-private industry partnerships.” Another center Tylka see synergies with is the ISU Seed Center. Dr. Manjit Misra, director of the Seed Science Center says they have similar objectives and goals. “We are all working together to promote Iowa products through science,” Mirsa says. “At the basic level, we have a challenge to feed a growing world population and I see the centers working together to research issues of economic importance around food insecurity, health and nutrition that will ultimately allow us to solve the problem set before us.” Misra also sees opportunities for the seed center and soybean center to work together to solve problems with GMO acceptance and to proactively collaborate to identify industry issues on the horizon. “Both centers bring a lot of expertise to the table and I look forward to the working within their natural synergies,” says Misra. The potential for collaboration and shared learning between centers is promising. “The nice thing is we have a lot of other centers at Iowa State to model after,” says Dr. Ed Anderson, Iowa Soybean Association Sr. director of supply and production systems. “We intend to take what they’ve done well and incorporate some of those things. We’ll also learn from things that haven’t gone so well to improve the functionality of the soybean center.” O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4 | S OY B E A N R E V I E W. C O M | 2 5

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On-Farm Network®

Continues Trial Success S

ince its introduction in 2000, the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) On-Farm Network® has completed thousands of replicated strip trials across Iowa. Over the years the team has engaged with farmers using precision agriculture tools and technology to discover, accurately validate and increase the use of the right combinations of crop inputs

By Dorothy Tate Allison Arp

and management practices that improve efficiency, profitability and environmental stewardship. “The research results aggregated in our online database provide a credible source of information to farmers,” says Tristan Mueller, ISA On-Farm Network operations manager for agronomic research. “This year, results from an additional 350 replicated strip trials will be added to the database,

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increasing the overall number of sites on existing topics and adding several new topics to the list.” The On-Farm Network team has grown this year to support the needs of Iowa soybean farmers. There are now three dedicated field research specialists engaging with farmer participants across Iowa, reinforced by a talented support team specializing in precision agriculture technologies,

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geographic information systems (GIS), logistics and data collection, processing and aggregation. “The growth of the On-Farm Network team increases the size and scope of our research capabilities taking the program to a new level,” says Pat Reeg, ISA On-Farm Network director. “We have also expanded the information collected from replicated strip trials. Through scouting and sampling we are able to collect weather observations and other relevant data to better understand trial yield results from projects within and across years. The additional information gathered from trials further benefits farmers and our industry partners.” In addition to working with many industry partners, the OnFarm Network is collaborating with researchers at Iowa State University (ISU) on the following projects: • “Climate trends relevant to soybean management practices” with ISU’s Dr. Chris Anderson

and the ISA Environmental Programs and Services Team • “Cropping systems modeling tools to improve soybean management and yield” in Iowa with Dr. Sotirios Archontoulis • “Further defining foliar fungicide use on soybean” with Dr. Daren Mueller • “Interpreting the contributions of cover crops to soil health and crop productivity” with Dr. Alison Robertson • “Enhancing soybean yield through strategic use of soybean seed treatments for seedling disease and insect pest management” also with Robertson. “The researchers at ISU bring additional scientific expertise to On-Farm Network projects,” says Tristan Mueller. “This benefits everyone involved, especially Iowa soybean farmers.” These collaborative ISU projects are good examples of future projects that will be part of the recently announced Iowa Soybean Research Center. [ Continued on page 28 ]

The research results aggregated in our online database provide a credible source of information to farmers, — TRISTAN MUELLER, ISA On-Farm Network operations manager for agronomic research

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“The primary focus of the center is to bring farmers, industry and academia together to improve the competitiveness of Iowa soybeans,” says Tristan Mueller. “It will allow us to coordinate a diverse collaboration of research, giving soybean farmers the advantage of larger-scoped trials and more opportunities to connect.” The ISA strategy has been a major factor in the establishment of the new center. ISA’s research strategy focuses on a three-pronged approach; Research Coordination, Environmental Programs and Services, and the OnFarm Network. Research Coordination includes the collaborative work of

ISA with ISU and other Midwestern universities through the North Central Soybean Research Program (NCSRP), and will now encompass the soybean research center. “ISA is already bringing farmers and industry together to work on trials,” Reeg says. “The center allows us the opportunity to connect our trials to the great work being done in academia.” The results from On-Farm Network trials can be found in the newly created replicated strip trial database at isafarmnet.com. Growers have the option to search for trials based on trial type, crop, and year or by location including crop district,

watershed and county among other variables. All participant information is kept anonymous and results have been aggregated. Creating the database allowed the On-Farm Network to construct a return on investment calculator enabling users to input fluctuating costs associated with products, practices and crop prices to help farmers make profitable decisions based on validated results. Results will also be presented at the 2015 ISA Research Conference Feb. 19, 2015 in Ames. Registration will open in December. For more information visit isafarmnet.com or call 1-800-383-1423.

The soybean center allows us the opportunity to connect On-Farm Network trials to the great work being done in academia. — PAT REEG, ISA On-Farm Network director

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The Iowa Soybean Research Center: Setting the stage for the next 50 years of soybean research. By Ed Anderson, ISA Sr. Director of Supply and Production Systems

For 50 years, Iowa soybean farmers have demonstrated visionary leadership in building and supporting soybean research, outreach and education programs that have enabled the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) to improve the competitiveness of Iowa farmers and the soybean industry. The new Iowa Soybean Research Center at Iowa State University will take this commitment to a new level for decades to come. The center is the latest partnership between ISA and ISU, and represents a next generation concept for driving a disciplined and focused effort to bring the greatest return on investment from soybean checkoff-funded research. It will build, coordinate and execute highly focused, interdisciplinary and collaborative research, outreach and teaching programs specific to soybeans. The objectives of the center align exceeding well with those of the ISA in developing and delivering the most relevant soybean research, establishing industry alignment, promoting a sense urgency and efficiency, and driving a reduction in research redundancy. The primary objective of the center is to bring soybean farmers, academic researchers and key partners representing industry technology and service providers to the table for candid dialogue on key issues and opportunities for academic research that will move the industry forward. We are thrilled with how the center will contribute to the next 50 years of improving the competitiveness of Iowa soybean farmers. The center, though, is just one example of how ISA leaders have conscientiously prioritized investments of soybean checkoff dollars at the state, regional and national levels. ISU, the North Central Soybean Research Program and the United

Soybean Board have all been excellent partners. Beginning in the early 1990’s, ISA farmer directors have supported two internal research programs that complement and extend university and industry research and outreach programs. The ISA On-Farm Network conducts collaborative field research with farmer participants, along with industry and academic partners across Iowa and the Midwest to leverage on-farm replicated strip trials for real-world evaluations of various agronomic and cropping systems, products and practices. The ISA Environmental Programs & Services team works similarly with farmers, federal and state agencies and other organizations in several Iowa watersheds and across the region to conduct in-field and edge-of-field water and nutrient management, conservation and sustainability research and technical assistance programs. The voluminous data generated from years of On-Farm Network and Environmental Programs & Services research is farmer confidential and only shared broadly in aggregated formats to help all farmers. In concert with the Iowa Corn Growers Association and the Iowa Pork Producers Association, the ISA recently announced the formation of the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance to support, communicate and drive the adoption of water quality and nutrient management practices and programs that will enable Iowa farmers to contribute to meeting goals set forth by the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy. From research to environmental programs, soybean producers can rest assured checkoff funds are being spent to improve soybean production and profitability in a sustainable way for generations to come. O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4 | S OY B E A N R E V I E W. C O M | 2 9

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IOWA FOOD AND FAMILY PROJECT

Successful Year by Every Measure By Lindsey Haley

A bumper crop of innovative activities sponsored by the Iowa Food & Family Project (Iowa FFP) is spurring greater engagement with Iowans interested in learning more about today’s food and farm system. From its presenting sponsorship of the Iowa Games and Live Healthy Iowa and one-of-kind presence at the Iowa State Fair to a journey into farming featuring an influential blogger from central Iowa, the Iowa FFP is delivering on its mission to better acquaint Iowans with great good and the farm families who grow it. “This year has been our most successful,” says Aaron Putze, Iowa Soybean Association communications director and Iowa FFP coordinator. “By every measure, the reach and influence of our home-grown, grassroots approach to improving consumer engagement about agriculture is increasing. We’ll build on this momentum for another successful campaign in 2015.”

Farm Tours

Iowa State Fair

Two ‘You on the Farm’ tours were held during soybean planting season; one in eastern Iowa to the Stahle farm near Solon and the other to the Van Manen farm near Kellogg. Both tours offered excellent on-farm experiences for the winning families, which leads to keeping those consumers engaged with Iowa FFP. ISA Producer Services and Iowa Corn’s field representatives teamed up to plan and execute these tours.

Iowa FFP returned to the south atrium of the Varied Industries building during the Iowa State Fair Aug. 7-17. A must-see sculpture created from nearly 50 tons of sand provided an ideal backdrop to a one-of-a-kind celebration of farming. “What Farmers Grow Makes Iowa Go” drew great attention from nearly 250,000 fairgoers and dozens of reporters, and celebrated farmers’ dedication to healthy families, communities and the environment. The exhibit and related activities reaffirmed the dedication of farmers to growing safe, wholesome food, generating jobs and income that build strong communities and safeguarding air, soil and water quality. Soybean farmer and ISA District Advisory Council (DAC) members Pat and Don Swanson were two of nearly 150 farmers who volunteered to manage the Iowa FFP’s state fair presence. “It gives us an opportunity to interact with consumers about where their food comes

Iowa Games

Nearly 3,000 parents, coaches and athletes participated in the Summer Iowa Games Opening Ceremonies July 18 in Ames where they enjoyed a taste of farming courtesy of the Iowa FFP’s 4th annual “Fields of Champions.” The event offered attendees a unique opportunity to discover how food is grown and to visit with Iowa farm families about what they do to continuously improve and provide wholesome food for everyone.

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from,” Pat says. “People from Iowa may think they know but when I visit with them, they are surprised by the extreme efforts that Iowa farmers take to keep their food and water safe.” Fairgoers weren’t the only ones who journeyed into agriculture. The Iowa FFP, in partnership with Iowa Girl Eats blogger Kristin Porter, offered hundreds of thousands of Iowans the real scoop on food from the people who best know it and grow it — Iowa farm families. Join My Journey

“Join My Journey” launched in 2013 with Porter visiting several Iowa farms and meeting the families who grow the products she features on her popular blog. This year, Porter brought those experiences along to new locations including restaurants like Jethro’s BBQ & Pork Chop Grill in Johnston; Hy-Vee and the “kitchen table” where she sat with Shannon and John Latham in Sheffield to talk soybeans and experiment with soyfoods. Other stops along the way included: • AE Dairy where she met Miriam Erickson Brown and learned about the unique quality control process AE uses. • Casey’s General Store where she visited with egg farmer Andrew

Kaldenberg of Rose Acre Farms and learned that the eggs produced on his farm can be found at Casey’s stores statewide. • Porter also experienced just how local that restaurants like SUBWAY® are when she donned the Subway apron and learned that Iowa’s turkey farmers provide nearly all of the turkey served in Subway restaurants nationwide. • Last month, Porter returned to the Rowe family beef farm near Dallas Center, inviting an ‘Iowa Girl Eats’ blog fan to join her for a backyard beef barbeque with the Rowe family. • In October, Porter welcomes bloggers from around the nation during Iowa Corn’s CornQuest Blogger Tour. In addition to Join My Journey, Iowa FFP partnered with Porter to develop an all-Iowa cookbook ‘Let’s Cook’. The cookbook has been wildly popular, receiving interest from fans near and far. Cookbook signings were held at the Des Moines Farmers Market, Hy-Vee, The Machine Shed Restaurant and the Iowa State Fair. Nearly 40 partners join Iowa Soybean Association in supporting the work of the Iowa FFP including McDonald’s, Jethro’s BBQ and Nationwide Agribusiness.

In 2014, Iowa Food and Family Project continued to increase awareness of today’s farming and food systems by leaps and bounds. • Welcomed three new partners to Iowa FFP programming support – McDonald’s, Jethro’s BBQ and Nationwide Agribusiness. • More than tripled number of consumers opting in to receive monthly Iowa Food & Family Project ‘Fresh Pickings’ e-newsletter; 7,557 in September 2013; 24,960 in September 2014. • Facebook fans nearly tripled – from 3,200 to almost 8,900. • Twitter followers grew from 920 to almost 1,400 – an increase of 51 percent.

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