Iowa Soybean Review, February, 2017 by Iowa Soybean Association

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

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HERBICIDE RESISTANCE PROCEED WITH CAUTION:

February 2017

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Steve Barber Barber Farms Soybean & Cattle Producer Oxford Junction, IA View his story at: fcsamerica.com/barbers

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Iowa Soybean Association

February 2017 | Vol. 29, No. 5

13 The Catalyst of the

20 Shifting the Conversation Most people discuss water in terms of

resistance is a growing problem in agriculture.

having too little or too much. However, emerging challenges with water quality and aging infrastructure are expanding the conversation.

Growing Problem Herbicide

15 In the Weeds with Chemistry and Trait Stewardship This isn’t

the first weed rodeo for crop protection companies and farmers.

24 Homer Ferguson: Soybean Legend, American Hero Sitting

comfortably in a brown cloth-covered recliner with his feet propped in the air, Homer Ferguson has lots stories to tell.

About the Cover:

One of the largest herbicide resistance problems for farmers in Iowa is waterhemp. One plant and its 21,000 seeds, can do a lot of damage. One plant every 15 rows means there are 25 million waterhemp seeds per acre.

Photo above: Herbicide resistant weeds have forced farmers to rethink control strategies. This field in central Iowa was populated with weeds as a result of an exceptionally wet spring and summer. The resulting seeds can impact weed growth and potentially cause herbicide resistance in the field in future years. F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 | I A S OY B E A N S . C O M | 3

Iowa Soybean Association

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

Making America Great Again As I write this column, the United States is getting ready to inaugurate a new President. In addition to the traditional and historic pomp and circumstance of such an important event, we have been told to expect a large number of noisy demonstrations and counter demonstrations. For most of us, we are thankful that the election season is over and the harassing phone calls have stopped. Yes, we understand that elections matter and that this process is important in a functioning democracy, but this recent campaign was more tiring, and perhaps more disappointing, than most of us can recall. Regardless of how you voted in November, and regardless of whether or not you were happy with the election results, there are many issues of critical importance that our elected leaders, in Washington, D.C. and Iowa, must address in the months ahead if we are truly going to "make America great again." For Iowa's soybean farmers, the issues at the state level range from finding a funding solution for long-term efforts to improve Iowa's water efforts, to making sure Iowa continues its leadership role in expanding markets for our enormous capacity to produce crops, meat products and renewable fuels. We look forward to working with the Branstad (soon Reynolds) administration as well as with leadership in both parties of the Iowa legislature. With the lack of profits many producers are

facing, this is not the time for partisan and petty politics to stand in the way of progress. At the national level, agriculture has much to gain and lose as the new administration fleshes out it positions on international trade agreements and global trade. Soybeans, more than any other agriculture product, are dependent on the growth of exports as we work to ensure a profitable future for our industry. Although many are hopeful that the change in administration in D.C. will reduce threats from additional regulatory burdens, it is clear that there are many issues on the table and in the courts that require ongoing diligence and attention. We also know that debates and discussions regarding the next Farm Bill will soon be in full force and Iowa farmers have much to gain, and potentially lose, in the ultimate outcome. The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) is ready to weigh in on all of these issues, but we need you to engage. Combined with our strong relationship with the American Soybean Association, ISA farmer leaders and professional staff work on your behalf every day to make sure that the concerns of Iowa's soybean farmers are heard and addressed. Join us in these efforts by becoming an ISA Advocate. To learn how, visit our website at www.iasoybeans.com or give me a call. We would love to have your name added to our growing list of ISA Advocates. American Soybean Association Directors Morey Hill, Madrid Wayne Fredericks, Osage Brian Kemp, Sibley John Heisdorffer, Keota Dean Coleman, Humboldt United Soybean Board Directors Delbert Christensen, Audubon Larry Marek, Riverside Tom Oswald, Cleghorn April Hemmes, Hampton

For advertising information in the Iowa Soybean Review, please contact Larson Ent. LLC, (515)440-2810 or dave@larsonent.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. 4 | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 | I A S OY B E A N S .C O M

Staff Credits Editor | Ann Clinton Communications Director | Aaron Putze, APR Creative Manager | Ashton Boles Photographer | Joe Murphy Staff Writer | Carrie Laughlin Staff Writer | Matthew Wilde Staff Writer | Dorothy Tate Staff Writer | Allison Arp Staff Writer | Michelle Jones Staff Writer | Easton Kuboushek Sales Director | David Larson The Iowa Soybean Review is published eight times a year by: Iowa Soybean Association 1255 SW Prairie Trail Parkway, Ankeny, Iowa 50023 Phone: (515) 251-8640 Web address: iasoybeans.com E-mail: aclinton@iasoybeans.com

Iowa Soybean Association can also be found on these sites:

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CAROL BALVANZ, ISA Policy Director

New Farm Bill ‘Chemistry” By Carol Balvanz, Policy Director Every five years or so, Congress passes another Farm Bill. It seems as if we barely finish and we’re gearing up for the next. Everything in Washington, D.C. takes more time to finish than most of us like, and with a new administration and lots of new agency heads taking their seats in the next few months, you’d think no one would want to begin farm bill discussions yet. But not so this time. Falling commodity prices tested the “safety net” features of the 2014 Farm Bill rather quickly. Title 1 programs became “revenue assurance” policies which worked far better in some counties than others. Crop insurance and conservation programs have been closely scrutinized by both farm and outside interests. But after surveying and focus-grouping a number of Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) members, I have found that while everyone has a “tweak” they’d like to make in the farm bill, most are not wanting big changes in 2018. ISA’s Policy Advisory Council has looked at farm bill options, and one of the questions they're wanting to answer is whether farmers want to continue to emphasize crop insurance and Title 1 programs, or whether they might be interested in the opportunity to do some “trading.” We know crop insurance is a perennial priority for the majority of farmers. We also know Iowa farmers have less risk than farmers in other parts of the country, so our premiums are a source of funding that insures more marginal areas. In addition, our surveys have shown many of our farmers would

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look favorably on some type of “green” payment for conservation efforts. Yet the fiscal realities are that we need to continue to support crop insurance, and there probably won’t be more money available for the 2018 Farm Bill for new programs. What if the next farm bill offered farmers more choice in how their “farm bill opportunities” were applied? What if a farmer could opt out of a Title 1 program (without putting his/her crop history at risk) and could choose instead to opt into a conservation program that provided long term soil and water benefits? Iowa farmers might use this option to invest the money into practices that would pay back over a longer term. We are looking for opportunities to inject new ideas into the next farm bill that will enable Iowa farmers to capture value in new ways. Perhaps choices could include combining working land conservation payments over extended time frames coupled with targeted CRP practices. Perhaps farmers could choose to use advanced technologies to improve both farm profitability and conservation outcomes. One idea called “precision conservation” would target conservation practices to those parts of a farm where they will have the highest return on investment. This could allow both farmers and the public to earn more bang for the buck invested. We’re just beginning to explore these opportunities. If you’re interested in learning more or helping us advance these concepts, give us a call at 800.383.1423.

Soyfoods are Poised to Meet Nutrition Challenges for an Aging Population Nutrition in aging will become an increasingly important issue as the number of Americans over the age of 64 is expected to jump in the next 25 years from the current 15 percent of the population (42.6 million) to 22 percent. Nutrient needs change with aging. For example, calorie needs drop, while certain nutrient requirements increase, making it necessary to pack more nutrition into fewer calories. Nutrient-dense soyfoods can help older people meet their dietary needs for protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12 and potassium. Soyfoods—including tofu, fortified soymilk, edamame, tempeh and whole soybeans—are affordable, convenient and readily available in supermarkets across the country. Some of the age-related factors affecting health and nutrition include: • The loss of lean muscle mass can lead to gaining body fat. • Dental changes can affect the ability to chew and may affect food choices. • A decrease in gastric (stomach) acid secretion reduces the absorption of iron and vitamin B12. • Appetite and thirst signals can be depressed, leading to malnutrition and dehydration. • Calcium absorption decreases so calcium requirements increase. • Decreased muscle mass and physical activity result in lower energy needs. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III, 40 percent of adults over the age of 70 consumed less than two-thirds of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for calories. Protein from plant foods may be especially valuable for older people because these foods are typically low in saturated fat compared to meat and many dairy products. Research suggests that dietary protein is most effective for maintaining muscle mass when it is consumed over the course of a day. Many older Americans consume most of their daily protein at their evening meal. However, consuming 25 to 30 grams of protein at each of three meals throughout the day may be the most effective way to meet protein needs. Soyfoods are particularly good dietary choices because they are rich in protein that is similar in quality to animal protein. One serving of tofu or one soy-based veggie burger can provide as much as 15 grams of highquality protein. Powdered soy protein can be added to fruit juice or smoothies for protein-packed snacks. Unlike many commonly consumed protein-rich foods, soyfoods are also cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat. In addition, calcium-fortified soymilk provides the same amount of calcium as cow’s milk, and it is just as well absorbed.

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Outstanding Farmer Leaders Recognized by Iowa Soybean Association An up and coming high school student, innovators in research and environmental conservation, a dedicated farm family that’s hosted the Chinese president and the state’s top executive were recognized by the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) during its annual awards banquet held recently in Ankeny. Those credited for outstanding service to the soybean industry and Iowa agriculture were: RISING STAR: Kaleb Miller, Lacona NEW LEADER: Andrew Lauver, Lake City FRIEND OF THE IOWA SOYBEAN FARMER: Gov. Terry Branstad ENVIRONMENTAL LEADER: Rob Stout, Washington INNOVATOR IN PRODUCTION RESEARCH: Steve Killpack, Beebeetown LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP: Rick and Martha Kimberley, Maxwell

raised on a fifth-generation family farm near Lake City. Lauver is pursuing his Master of Agribusiness from Kansas State University, farms and is a sales representative for DuPont Pioneer. The Friend of the Iowa Soybean Farmer Award was presented to Branstad, with the support of Cargill, for championing farming’s importance to Iowa’s economy and quality of life. His focus on building and maintaining strong relationships with important global ag trade partners — chief among them, China — has had a direct and immediate impact on the competitiveness of Iowa’s farm families. The Environmental Leader Award, presented by Monsanto, was awarded to Stout for his commitment to conservation and championing water quality practices. Stout is also highly involved with ISU and ISA research. He’s involved in a 10-year research project on cover crops, participates in numerous On-Farm Network® trials and late spring nitrogen tests and helped start the West Fork Crooked Creek Watershed Group. Stout has installed a robust set of conservation practices on his farm near Washington including notill and cover crops, water ways, terraces

and buffer strips. In 2015, Stout installed a bioreactor — the first in southeast Iowa. The new Innovator of Production Research award was presented to Killpack of Beebeetown. Sponsored by John Deere, the award recognizes leadership in the use of production technology to discover, validate and effectively manage practices to improve efficiency, profitability and competitiveness of Iowa soybean farmers. On their 100 percent no-till farm, Killpack and his father implement new concepts and research on an annual basis, including seeding trials, soil fertility studies and crop rotations. The Legacy of Leadership Award, presented by Stine Seed Company, was awarded to the Kimberleys of Maxwell. Fifth-generation farmers, their contributions to ISA are immeasurable. They have hosted more than 25 Chinese delegations, helping cultivate personal relationships with those involved in international marketing. The Kimberleys also serve as positive spokespeople for the ISA and agriculture — locally and internationally — even welcoming now President Xi Jinping of China to their home in February 2012.

The Rising Star Award, presented to Miller by Farm Credit Services of America, recognizes an ISA member’s son or daughter who’s active at the local, state and national level and preparing to continue ag studies in college. Miller, the son or Randy and Shelia Miller, is a senior at Southwest Warren High School and is involved in multiple sports, speech, the National Honor Society, FFA and 4-H. The award includes a $1,000 stipend provided by Farm Credit to assist Miller with educational expenses. Lauver was presented the New Leader Award with the help of DuPont Pioneer. It recognizes an ISA member’s outstanding involvement and commitment to promoting the soybean industry and agriculture. Lauver was

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EXPERT Q & A: Nate Taylor, Business Unit Manager

Who is AEROPTIC?

We are one of the largest provider of Remote Sensing imagery to U.S. agriculture. Our recently acquired company Geovantage has had Iowa customers for years, including the Iowa Soybean Association, as well as seed and crop protection companies and agricultural service providers. AEROPTIC operates its own aircraft flown by AEROPTIC pilots to collect Hyperspectral, Multispectral, LiDAR and thermal imagery. We custom manufacture sensors for AEROPTIC's fleet, which can collect up to 400,000 acres a day with 6-inch resolution or better. We can deliver data for customers in 24 to 48 hours.

How does agriculture fit with national security?

They are inseparable. Nations who can provide their citizens with adequate supplies of healthy food and drinking water are inherently more stable than those that cannot guarantee food security.

What's the benefit of RS imagery from planes vs. drones?

Imagery collected from manned aircraft complement data collected by UAVs. Utilizing aircraft provides greater coverage, more efficiency, and the ability to use higher scientific grade sensors Collecting RS imagery with planes provides incredible productivity, efficiency and economy to users. Indeed, the large-scale RS collection can be used to identify areas that Ag retailers, agronomists, and farmers want to take a closer look at smaller areas with UAVs.

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Do you provide imagery directly to farmers?

We prefer to partner with ASPs — Ag retailers, co-ops and crop consultants. We want to complement these existing relationships and be a part of predictive agriculture.

What do you mean by predictive agriculture and how does that differ from precision agriculture?

Over the past 20 years precision agriculture has largely involved reactive decisions. For example, analyzing yield monitor data to decide what to do in the next crop, which, in the Corn Belt, typically gets planted months later. By integrating our high-resolution RS imagery and then scouting fields agriculturalists can develop intelligence that, over a number of growing seasons, will give them the ability to make decisions based on accurate measurements. We want to help agriculturalists in making these decisions when they can still affect the health, yield and profitability of that crop.

What are some concrete examples of the benefits of AEROPTIC's imagery?

For ag service providers and farmers it can contribute to a better assessment of plant health. For agricultural organizations like ISA, the RS data can manage, measure and validate that farmers are maintaining and creating conservation practices that help protect water quality and soil health. Increasingly, consumers and food retailers require proof of performance claims for "sustainability" and nutrient management. Remote sensing imagery plays an integral role in predictive and sustainable agriculture.

Heck Shares Insight on President Trump and Ag By Dorothy Tate While many in the agriculture industry are holding their breath after President Trump’s withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), Ron Heck isn’t worried. The former Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) Board president told farmers at the ISA District Advisory Committee day that he was optimistic about Trump’s presidency and hopeful despite his decision to cancel TPP. The Perry farmer served on Trump’s agriculture advisory committee during the campaign where he was one of 70 committee members who provided insight on policy affecting agriculture. Heck worked with the group to gain consensus and develop a two-page, 18-point document for that became the foundation of President Ron Heck Trump’s ag platform and speeches. Heck said the advisory committee told the now president how important trade was to agriculture, which was reiterated by ISA and other industry organizations. However, Heck ultimately understood that withdrawing from the TPP was the best option for the new president. “Without the support of Congress for the existing TPP proposal, Trump had no opportunity to negotiate a better deal,” Heck says. “So he woke everyone up and said ‘There’s a new negotiator, anyone want to come to the table?’

We are the ones with the trade deficit and are buying all their products, so I think they’ll want to talk.” As the presidency gets underway, Heck is particularly excited about some of Trump’s agricultural picks. “We are thrilled to have Sonny Perdue from Georgia as Secretary of Agriculture,” Heck says. “Terry Branstad was also another brilliant pick, couldn’t have done it better myself.” Sonny Perdue, current governor of Georgia, grew up on a row crop farm in rural Georgia and has ties that bode well for agriculture. Iowa’s governor, Terry Branstad also grew up on a farm and has a long history of valuing the contributions of the state’s strong agriculture industry, not to mention a strong relationship with China’s president, Xi Jinping. Additionally, Heck, a National Biodiesel Board member, is confident that biofuels will fare well under the new administration, with one caveat. “The Trump Administration will support biofuels as long as we continue to remind them of our support, but we still need to remind Congress to do their part,” Heck says. “You never know how this is going to work out.”

A New President Equals New Opportunities for

AG TRANSPORTATION By Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition

hether one continues to be cynicism among much of the electorate, celebratory or melancholy it is essential for the new president to following the results of November’s prove he can govern effectively. remarkable presidential election, those It’s incumbent upon organizations who advocate for investment in the like the Soy Transportation Coalition nation’s transportation infrastructure (STC), the Iowa Soybean Association, should find and other agricultural encouragement in groups to convey President Donald to President Trump Trump’s continued and his emphasis on administration the topic. that investing in President Trump transportation is a builder. So much infrastructure extends of his professional beyond upgrading Donald Trump success has been La Guardia Airport attributed to the in New York City or construction and maintenance of mitigating urban congestion. It must capital assets. He understands and also include addressing the challenges appreciates the construction industry. of moving freight — particularly In addition to President Trump’s agricultural freight. natural affinity toward infrastructure One of the unmistakable lessons investment, proposing and from the election is how rural America implementing a robust plan to improve was instrumental in propelling Donald the system will allow him to claim a Trump to the presidency. As a result, it’s success that is tangible and relatable to hopeful the new administration will be most Americans in the early days of his receptive to opportunities to improve the presidency. Given the skepticism and rural economy. One of the most effective

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ways of doing so is to improve our nation’s system of roads and bridges, highways and interstates, freight rail, inland waterways and ports. The persistent challenge, of course, to improving our transportation system is funding. While we encourage a greater degree of investment, we also must be open to and explore alternative financing of these critical assets. President Trump and notably his nominee for Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross, have highlighted the potential to access private capital to provide increased infrastructure investment. The STC continues to explore the merits of this concept. As a member of the Department of Commerce’s Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness, I look forward to discussing this concept with Mr. Ross and members of his team assuming his confirmation. The opportunity certainly exists for the transportation priorities of U.S. agriculture to receive strong consideration in 2017 and beyond. We look forward to seizing it.

PROCEED WITH CAUTION:

HERBICIDE RESISTANCE The Catalyst of the Growing Problem By Allison Arp

erbicide resistance is a growing problem in agriculture, and experts and farmers agree on the reason why. “I would attribute it to perpetual use of the same chemistry,” says Brad Buchanan, Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) member, farmer and crop consultant near Cedar Rapids. “Anytime you use something year after year on both corn and soybeans you’re bound to see issues arise.” One of the largest resistance problems for farmers in Iowa is waterhemp. Mike Owen, Ph.D., Iowa State University weed specialist, and his team analyzed more than 900 samples of waterhemp from across Iowa, as part of a study funded by ISA. The group found that essentially all the fields in Iowa have resistant waterhemp with an astounding 5 to 7

percent having detectable resistance to five groups of herbicides. If resistance is so bad in certain fields, why aren’t farmers doing anything about it? According to Owen, the current infestations aren’t at the threshold of causing problems — yet. “Until it begins impacting combining or another task, farmers won’t take action,” Owen says. “They’re familiar with seeing late weed escapes. Combining over a weed is a great way to spread the seed far and wide quickly.” One plant can do a multitude of damage. A single waterhemp plant, for example, has 21,000 seeds. If there is one plant every 15 rows, that means there are 25 million waterhemp seeds per acre. [ Continued on page 14]

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Investing Checkoff Dollars

“

HERBICIDES WILL FAIL WITHOUT DIVERSITY. THE SILVER BULLET ISN’T

HAPPENING. FARMERS NEED TO THINK ABOUT ALTERNATIVE STRATEGIES.

”

— Mike Owen, Iowa State University [ Continued from page 13]

“If you see waterhemp in August or September there is a more than 95 percent chance it is resistant to one or more herbicides,” Owen says. “In addition, multiple resistance is the norm, not the exception.” Buchanan tries to help his customers address the issue before it goes too far. He advises his customers to start the season with a pre-emergent herbicide that combines multiple modes of action. Owen also recommends a preseason treatment, but says farmers need to know about previous herbicide resistance problems in fields. They need to apply an effective pretreatment and a timely post treatment. Even with all the new technology and chemistries available, both Owen and Buchanan say scouting throughout the season is imperative. “You may be spraying two different products with different names, but that doesn’t mean two different modes

“

A N Y T I M E YO U

USE SOMETHING

YEAR AFTER YEAR O N B OT H CO R N A N D S OY B E A N S YO U ’ R E B O U N D TO S E E

”

ISSUES ARISE.

— Brad Buchanan, farmer and crop consultant near Cedar Rapids

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of action,” says Buchanan. “Farmers and certified crop advisers are being encouraged to know the different classes of herbicides so they can avoid using two in the same class.” In addition to the class of herbicide, farmers should follow label instructions to see if the product can be mixed or combined with additives, what nozzles to use, the minimum gallons per acre needed and the maximum application speed. Buffer calculations, tank cleaning recommendations, wind speed rules and boom requirements are also important to take under consideration when applying a herbicide. Especially with the new options on the market. Recent additions to the herbicide market require an even closer examination of the label, and overall a better understanding of how herbicides effect the environment.

“What’s exciting about the new chemistries is that you can spray weeds at an earlier stage and have contact and residual control,” Buchanan says. “But that has to be weighed against risks like improper tank cleaning, buffer zones, drift onto neighboring fields and specialty crops and other liability concerns.” Owen agrees the best strategy a farmer can take is having a multi-year herbicide plan with an emphasis on diversification of herbicide groups. Even though farmers have new weapons against the ever-growing weed problem, they need to be careful when using them, and not expect a catch-all herbicide. “Herbicides will fail without diversity,” Owen says. “The silver bullet isn’t happening. Farmers need to think about alternative strategies.”

Investing Checkoff Dollars

In the Weeds with Chemistry and Trait Stewardship By Matthew Wilde

his isn’t the first weed rodeo Having a clean field is once again for crop protection companies not cheap or easy. But Ed Anderson, and farmers. Ph.D, Iowa Soybean Association senior Both have been trying to corral director of research, says the weed war and kill waterhemp, giant ragweed, is far from lost. marestail and other yield-robbing weeds Many herbicides are still effective, for decades. including glyphosate. New chemistries When Monsanto’s Roundup and biotech traits continue to be Ready® soybeans — developed, such as genetically modified soybeans tolerant to to tolerate Roundup® reformulated dicamba and other glyphosateand 2,4-D. based herbicides — “It’s certainly broke out of the chute early enough in in 1997, weeds that the game that if developed resistance farmers develop and Ed Anderson, Ph.D, to other herbicides implement integrated Iowa Soybean Association didn’t stand a chance. management systems One or two overand practices, the-top passes of the broad spectrum including responsibly using new traits chemical was all it took. and chemistries, they should be able to Glyphosate was a cheap, effective produce weed-free, healthy soybeans,” way to grow weed-free beans. Farmers Anderson says. eagerly adopted biotech seeds and Though companies may have heavily relied on what many call the competing products and slightly world’s greatest herbicide. different approaches to battle weeds, a But repeated use of a particular common theme is clear. chemical(s) allows weeds to select Industry experts say trait and for resistance, a basic function of chemistry stewardship — reading and evolution. It’s been happening ever following labels, using multiple modes since herbicides were invented. Now of action, residuals, pre-emergent and glyphosate is no longer as effective like post-emergent herbicides, among other atrazine and other herbicides. things — will be essential to curb and “Mother Nature always finds a way,” reverse the growing herbicide-resistance says Mindy Whittle, Monsanto soybean problem. Protecting livelihoods, they industry affairs lead. say, depends on it.

“Industry, academics and farmers need to work together,” Whittle says. “We need to learn from the past and adapt our practices so current and new chemistries and technology can be effective as long as possible.”

Xtend

Monsanto has a new thoroughbred in its crop protection stable for soybeans called the Roundup Ready Xtend Crop System. It’s geared to provide farmers more consistent, flexible control of weeds, especially glyphosate-resistant ones. The company’s Roundup Ready 2 Xtend soybeans are genetically engineered to tolerate XtendiMax™ with VaporGrip™, an enhanced dicamba herbicide for pre- and post-emergent use. More than 10 years in the making, the Xtend soybean system will be fully rolled out this spring. XtendiMax with VaporGrip was approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and given a 2-year conditional registration for over-the-top use in early November. Roundup Ready 2 Xtend soybeans received U.S. Department of Agriculture and import approval from China and other countries in 2015. Ty Witten, Ph.D., Monsanto soybean, cotton, specialty crop and seed treatment systems lead, estimates [ Continued on page 16]

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[ Continued from page 15]

18 to 25 million acres of Xtend soybeans will likely to be planted nationwide this year. He believes the Xtend system will help soybean farmers control weeds and maximize yield potential, but warns proper stewardship is critical. “Dicamba will look really good in a lot of places when you spray it,” Witten says. “There will likely be situations where farmers say that’s all I need. That is something we want to head off at the pass. “This is a tool and not the only one farmers should be using,” he adds. “To be a good steward means you have a diverse weed management program with multiple chemistries.” Getting back to reading and following labels and talking with neighbors about crop and herbicide use to minimize potential damage is important, Witten says. Farmers have got away from doing both partly because glyphosate was so easy and safe to use. Even though XtendiMax with VaporGrip has a low-volatile formulation of dicamba, drift damage

“

to non-target plants and threatened and endangered species is a concern. Movement via rain, wind and temperature inversion can occur. “You need to think about what happens to any herbicide once it’s sprayed,” Witten says. “When it comes to on-target application, it’s the responsibility of the Mindy Whittle, applicator.” Here’s several Monsanto XtendiMax with VaporGrip application requirements intended to minimize the potential of off-target movement: • Ammonium sulfate and ammoniumbased additives in applications are prohibited. • Apply .5 pounds per acre for any single, in-crop application. • Apply a minimum of 10 gallons per acre. • Don’t apply aerially or if rain is expected within 24 hours, which could result in water runoff from soils. • Only use approved nozzles and approved tankmix partners (see www. xtendimaxapplicationsrequirements. com).

• Spray boom height not to exceed 24 inches above target crop. • Apply only when wind speed is 3-10 mph. • Do not exceed 15 mph ground speed during application. • Don’t apply when wind is blowing toward susceptible crops and maintain the required label buffer to protect sensitive areas. • Use triple-rinse cleanout procedure. Crop scouting will be required to use Xtend products. It’s an EPA mandate to monitor herbicide resistance and product performance. “It will be important to keep good records, get trained on use and follow label instructions,” Witten says. Monsanto is investing heavily in education to help. The company recently provided approximately 14 universities and/or organizations unrestricted funds to update weed management training tools, 150 field engagement specialists will be hired to work with farmers and dealers and all employees working with Xtend technology and products will be thoroughly trained on use. “I think we will see this across the board how companies educate about products entering the market,” Witten says.

TO B E A G O O D S T E WA R D M E A N S YO U H AV E A D I V E R S E W E E D

”

M A N AG E M E N T P R O G R A M W I T H M U LT I P L E C H E M I S T R I E S .

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— Ty Witten, Monsanto

Photo credit: United Soybean Board

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Helpful websites and contacts Xtendimaxapplicationrequirements.com

Helpful information about dos and don’ts like nozzles, tank mixing, etc. Roundupreadyxtend.com

Information about the Xtend program, along with online training videos and education materials 1-844-RRXtend

Toll-free number required by the EPA to report herbicide resistance and application problems. Enlist.com

Information about the Enlist weed control system cropscience.bayer.us/products/traits/libertylink Photo credit: United Soybean Board

Enlist

Information about LibertyLink product information

to drift (half of that percentage is due to improved spray nozzles) and John Chase of Dow AgroSciences 96 percent less volatile than a traditional couldn’t agree more. He’s the mix of glyphosate and 2,4-D. commercial leader for the company’s Regardless, Chase says following Enlist™ weed control system. label instructions and Enlist soybeans proper stewardship is a are genetically must. For Enlist, engineered that means: to tolerate • Use one of glufosinate, 23 approved nozzles. glyphosate and new 2,4-D choline, • Maximum application wind speed is 15 mph, which are the John Chase, with recommended wind active ingredients Dow AgroSciences speed of 3-10 mph. in Enlist Duo® herbicide. Chase • Don’t apply when wind is blowing toward susceptible crops expects Enlist corn to be available and maintain a 30-foot downwind to U.S. growers this year and Enlist buffer to protect sensitive areas. soybeans in 2018. Herbicide resistance is rampant • Soybeans and corn are not nationwide, he says. The problem susceptible crops. is escalating due to reliance on one Chase recommends rotating traits mode of action for too long, namely and modes of action. Developing new glyphosate. technologies isn’t cheap and doesn’t Chase says Enlist provides farmers happen overnight, industry officials say. new tools to incorporate multiple modes “We want and need this technology of action to battle problem weeds. to last as long as possible,” Chase says. “You won’t hear us talk about the “These are the tools that farmers have Enlist weed control system without for the next several years. We need them mentioning the program approach,” to be successful.” he says. “We will never promote being reliant on just a post application. We LibertyLink will always recommend a residual Matt Keel, MaxYield Cooperative along with sound behavior.” seed solutions specialist based in Britt, says Bayer’s LibertyLink® soybeans According to Dow AgroSciences, are a popular, effective choice among 2,4-D choline is 90 percent less prone

farmers in his region for weed control. LibertyLink beans are engineered to be tolerant of Liberty® herbicide. According to Bayer, it’s the only nonselective herbicide that is effective on tough-to-control grasses and broadleaves including Palmer amaranth, which is in Iowa. Liberty has no known resistance issues. “It’s one of my best selling beans,” Keel says. But as a farmer, he knows stewardship is important and he can’t rely on one trait and one herbicide. Most other farmers know it too, he says. After all, it’s not their first weed rodeo. “I think we’ve learned our lesson,” Keel says. “You have to stick to the label, recommended rates and use multiple modes of action. We can’t just think two to three years down the road, but long term.”

EDITOR’S NOTE : This is the first of a series featuring industry perspectives on herbicide and biotech trait stewardship to curb herbicide resistance. Additional stories in the March Iowa Soybean Review will feature farmer and academia perspectives.

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Photo credit: United Soybean Board

Herbicide Chemistry Stewardship Q & A By Matthew Wilde

erbicide resistance is a growing problem in Iowa and nationwide that threatens the competitiveness of soybean farmers. Industry and academia are working hard, and often together, to mitigate the problem. This includes developing new soybean traits, technologies and weed control programs to more effectively use existing herbicides. Ty Witten, Monsanto soybean, cotton, specialty crop and seed treatment systems lead, and Mike Owen, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach weed specialist and agronomist, provide their thoughts to Iowa Soybean Review (ISR) readers on herbicide resistance and chemistry stewardship.

ISR: How serious of a problem is herbicide resistance in Iowa and nationwide? Witten: “It depends on where you

are. In the southern states, soybean farmers are well aware of herbicide resistance, particularly in Palmer amaranth. In the North, the big herbicide resistant weeds are marestail and waterhemp. Treat every acre like you have herbicide resistant weeds.”

Owen: “It is very serious and

affects a majority of growers. In Iowa,

most soybean fields have detectable populations of herbicide resistant weeds. However, in most fields the populations are below the ‘grower threshold’ of detection. Given the seed production potential of weeds, particularly waterhemp, the population density of resistance can increase rapidly.”

ISR: Are new herbicides, chemistries and biotech traits like Monsanto’s Roundup Ready® Xtend Crop System for soybeans the answer to weedfree fields again? Witten: “To me this is an exciting

time. You will see amazing results from new chemistries and traits, but they are only a tool and not a silver bullet. We need to watch and monitor herbicide resistance in a robust way to be productive and promote longevity of our tools. We want to do this with dicamba and other products coming on the market, whether they are Monsanto’s or not.”

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Owen: “The answer for the future

is to diversify weed management beyond herbicides. We will not be able to ‘spray’ our way out of the problem. There are no new herbicides (new mechanisms of action) in the foreseeable future. All ‘new’ herbicides are from existing herbicide groups and most of the groups already have weeds with evolved Ty Witten, resistance. New traits Monsanto will help but are beyond farmer expectations of what the technologies will deliver.”

ISR: What are the benefits and potential pitfalls of new herbicides and technology to combat weeds/herbicide resistance? Witten: “Dicamba and other

chemistries used in-season, across the top against broadleaf weeds will have dynamic results. But Dicamba will hurt Enlist crops and Enlist will harm Xtend crops … and symptomology could show up in other sensitive crops. It comes back to that stewardship component for on-target application. It will be

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W E N E E D TO WATC H A N D M O N I TO R H E R B I C I D E

R E S I S TA N C E I N A R O B U S T WAY TO B E P R O D U C T I V E A N D

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P R O M OT E LO N G E V I T Y O F O U R TO O L S .

— Ty Witten, Monsanto important to keep good records, get trained, talk to your neighbors and follow label instructions.”

Owen: “The use of a different

herbicide group on soybeans will help. However, the new traits and herbicide systems will not provide the level or consistency of weed control that farmers have grown to expect until glyphosate resistance evolved. Pitfalls represent the potential off-target injury from these herbicides. While the movement from the volatilization of these herbicides has largely (but not completely) been resolved by new formulations, the potential for injury to sensitive crops from sprayer and nurse tank contamination is high as is the potential for drift during applications.”

ISR: Why is chemistry stewardship and following label instructions such an important component of weed management? Witten: “To be a good steward means you have a diverse weed management

program with multiple chemistries. We need to manage existing traits and crop protection products such as dicamba, 2,4-D and PPO inhibitors (Flexstar, Cobra, Valor, Blazer, etc.). New chemistries and technologies aren’t developed over night. “Roundup Ready and LibertyLink® has been the norm for so many years that people have gotten away from looking at labels. Getting back to this important practice is important, and will continue to be so. On-target application is the responsibility of the applicator.”

slow herbicide resistance and help soybean farmers?

Owen: “The agricultural landscape

Owen: “The objectivity and ethics of

has changed dramatically. The presence of sensitive crops (i.e., grapes) and sensitive areas (i.e., endangered species and pollinator habitat) has increased and applications must be adjusted to protect these areas. Further, more acreages have populated the rural landscape. The labels for these herbicides and application procedures must be followed carefully.”

ISR: How can industry and academia work together to

Witten: “We typically work with

academia on product development. Monsanto recently provided 14 universities and/or organizations unrestricted funds to update their weed management training tools, such as presentations and webinar content. The core of this has nothing to do with Xtend. It’s about improving weed management programs and educating growers/ applicators to have on-target application and better weed management.” industry must recognize the problems and marketing must track the science more closely. Academia does not have the presence that we once had and must partner with whomever we can to provide the information farmers need to improve weed management and slow herbicide resistance. However, we must also recognize the economic dilemma that farmers face and help them develop programs that meet economic, environmental and weed management goals. A difficult task, to be sure.”

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T H E A N SW E R

FOR THE FUTURE I S TO D I V E R S I F Y W E E D M A N AG E M E N T B E YO N D

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HERBICIDES.

— Mike Owen, Iowa State University

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SHIFTING THE CONVERSATION By Michelle Jones

ost people discuss water in terms of having too little or too much. However, emerging challenges with water quality and aging infrastructure are expanding the conversation. Hoping to change the way water is managed in America, the U.S. Water Alliance released its One Water Roadmap: “The Sustainable Management of Life’s Most Roger Wolf, Essential ISA EPS director Resource” in December. The roadmap defines One Water and outlines a bold approach to tackle the nation’s biggest water challenges. According to the report, the One Water approach recognizes all water has value and should be managed in a way to maximize its benefit. The approach relies on all water users — urban and

“

rural, public and private — collaborating to develop innovative solutions and manage water in a sustainable, inclusive and integrated way. As a member of the One Water Council, Roger Wolf, Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) Environmental Programs and Services director, brought the agricultural perspective to the discussion. “It is important for agriculture to have a seat at the table and contribute to the water conversation,” Wolf says. “This approach is a testament to the success of collaboration across the water sector. I truly believe in the One Water concept and what we can accomplish on a state and national level.” In June 2016, a 16-member Iowa delegation attended the seventh One Water Summit and participated in a One

Water Roadmap discussion. The delegation included city, wastewater, environmental and agricultural leaders along with three farmers — Wayne Fredericks, former ISA president from Osage; Mark Jackson, ISA board member from Rose Hill; and Tim Smith, ISA District Advisory Council member from Eagle Grove. The conversation focused on working together to scale up practices so One Water management becomes the new normal in every urban, suburban and rural community across America. “It was interesting to learn all the different water issues across the country and how they vary,” Smith says. “A great amount of attention is being focused on water quality, water usage and sources of water. It is important agriculture realizes this water issue is very important to everybody across the country.” The roadmap divides action into six areas and features real-world

I T I S I M P O R TA N T AG R I C U LT U R E

R E A L I Z E S T H I S WAT E R I S S U E I S V E RY I M P O R TA N T TO E V E RY B O DY AC R O S S T H E C O U N T RY.

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— Tim Smith, farmer from Eagle Grove

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case studies of utilities, community groups and businesses making tangible progress in smarter water management. These examples illustrate success is possible through collaboration and innovation. The Middle Cedar Partnership Project (MCPP) — led by the city of Cedar Rapids in collaboration with 15 conservation and commodity groups — is highlighted in the roadmap for its cooperative partnership between

phase, emphasis is on adoption and implementation of bioreactors, saturated buffers and cover crops to improve water quality efforts. “I am encouraged by urban and ag, point and nonpoint working together to improve our water resources,” Wolf says. “Our work is about building a sustainable water future for Iowa and a stronger agricultural industry to help Iowa be better tomorrow than we are today.”

A L L WAT E R H A S VA L U E A N D S H O U L D B E M A N AG E D I N A WAY TO M A X I M I Z E I T S B E N E F I T. urban and rural neighbors. This project combines downstream water users, specifically Cedar Rapids, with upstream agriculture and conservation entities to address water quality, flood reduction and soil health concerns. Initial partnership efforts focused on five targeted subwatersheds of the Middle Cedar River. In 2015, ISA led development of watershed plans for the targeted watersheds. As the project enters the next

The approaches outlined by the US Water Alliance reiterate that “all water has value and should be managed in a sustainable, inclusive, integrated way.” “Creating this roadmap has been an incredible process,” Radhika Fox, US Water Alliance CEO, says. “The roadmap provides practical guidance to the innumerable stakeholders across the country who are facing severe water challenges. Water is the most pressing issue of our time. We have to get this right.”

Ag's Role in One Water The One Water Roadmap is divided into six arenas for action which encompass all water users and offer multiple strategies to address the impact each has on water. The arenas for action include:

• Reliable and resilient water utilities • Thriving cities • Competitive business and industry • Sustainable agricultural systems • Social and economic inclusion • Healthy waterways The relationship between water and agriculture is great. Food production is responsible for 80 percent of all water consumed, according to a report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Additionally, agriculture faces challenges with nutrient loss and surface water runoff. The One Water approach acknowledges the impact and importance of agriculture and proposes three main strategies to support the sustainable agricultural systems arena with a focus on collaboration and partnerships: • Using on-farm strategies to reduce water consumption and manage nutrients •Creating partnerships between upstream and downstream communities • Using watershed-scale planning and monitoring Iowa farmers implementing practices outlined in the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy — such as cover crops, bioreactors and saturated buffers — already support these strategies as do farmerled upstream and downstream collaborations. Farmers can further get involved by continuing to adopt practices and participating in water quality programs in their local watershed.

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M c SUPPLY & DEMAND By Matthew Wilde

f the popularity of the McRib in China is any indication, Iowa soybean farmers will eventually find a home for last year’s record crop. Tanner Ehmke, senior economist for CoBank, showed a picture of a McDonalds’ restaurant in China with a line of customers stretching out the door and down the sidewalk during the inaugural U.S. Soy International Marketing Dialogue in December 2016. The Chinese love the iconic, seasonal pork sandwich smothered in barbeque sauce and other fast-food fare, he says. “As long as the Chinese consumer wants more protein that will bode well for U.S. (soybean) exports,” Ehmke says. About 120 soybean farmers and Industry stakeholders received the latest information about soybean supply and demand and economic

factors that affect both at the two-day event in St. Louis hosted by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC). Economists say demand for soy and pork remains strong in China — the largest importer of beans and home to the most pigs in the world. Soy demand in the U.S. and other parts of the world remains robust as well. Even though China’s economy is slowing, Ehmke says the desire of the nation’s more than 1.3 billion citizens to eat more meat and improve their diets is stronger than ever. That means plenty of soybeans are needed to feed hogs, poultry and to a lesser extent dairy. And lots of soybean oil is needed for cooking. “China seems to have a bottomless appetite for soybeans,” Ehmke says. “We’re on record pace for soybean exports to China. We have the beans and they will take them.”

That gives Keota farmer John Heisdorffer a sense of security. “It appears we’ll find a home for the record harvest,” the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and USSEC board member says. He was recently eleted vice president of the American Soybean Association. China is expected to purchase 63 percent of the soybeans exported worldwide, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Imports have grown from about 36.7 million bushels in 1996 to more than 3 billion bushels today. The U.S. accounts for about onethird of China’s soybean imports. That number is expected to increase as U.S. soybean exports are projected to hit an all-time high of more than 2 billion bushels this marketing year, USDA data shows.

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EUROPE/MIDDLE EAST/ NORTH AFRICA:

USSEC D EMAND SNA PSHOT

World’s largest soybean meal importer. Total U.S. soy imports of about 330 million bushels. “It’s a different food culture in Europe. It comes with positives and negatives. In the end they import a lot of soybeans and soybean products,” says Brent Babb, regional director.

NORTH ASIA: Accounts for 68 percent of U.S. soybean exports. Growing soybean and meal markets in China. Crush in Korea and Taiwan is stable. “It’s a very exciting region. It is obviously a very important market for soybean farmers,” says Paul Burke, regional director.

THE AMERICAS: Growing meal and oil market. Increased meat, poultry and egg demand due to population and economic growth. “Soybean oil imports are up 140 percent and soybean meal imports are up 25 percent in the last five years. (Buyers) keep saying U.S. soybean meal and oil is better quality,” says Nayeli Vilanova, regional marketing director.

Extremely positive crush margins as of December in China are fueling the purchases, Ehmke says. As long as crushers are making money, he expects purchases to continue. Chinese demand, in large part, kept post-harvest soybean prices north of the USDA season-average projected range of $9 to $10 per bushel. “Demand continues to build as we have low prices,” Ehmke says. “The good news is low prices cures low prices in the long term.” Marty Ruikka of Pro Exporter, an ag consulting and analysis company based in Michigan, says China will continue to be the dominant

ASIA SUBCONTINENT: 1.74 billion people, led by India, and a 5.58 percent growth in gross domestic product. India has the highest population of 10- to 24-year-olds in the world and the largest human feeding program. “It’s not China but a lot of similarities. To me that’s a recipe for change and growth,” says Pam Helmsing, acting regional director.

soybean buyer internationally. Even though the nation’s population has plateaued and appears to be headed slightly down, he says it isn’t necessarily cause for alarm. China plans to move 170 million people from rural to urban areas, or roughly half the U.S. population. The goal is to stimulate the economy, open up more land for agriculture and grow the size of farms to make them more efficient. “The good news for you, even though meat consumption (annually per year) may have peaked, oil use has not. Food grade oil is choleric intake,” Ruikka says. “If China

SOUTHEAST ASIA: Growing market for U.S. soybeans and soybean meal. Export value in 2015 was $2.07 billion and $1.17 billion, respectively. “It is a very exciting region. It’s never stopped growing,” says Tim Loh, regional director.

urbanization continues, that puts enormous pressure on more fast food, meat and oil seeds.” ISA Chief Operating Officer Karey Claghorn, who participated in trade missions to China, Japan, India and Ecuador in the last seven months, says demand for U.S. soy continues to build. “The bright spot is there’s only so much soy in the world but we can’t take that for granted,” Claghorn says. “We have to continue to be vigilant on market access issues. Farmers can rest assured their checkoff dollars are funding programs to build preference for U.S. soybeans and soy products.”

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Homer Ferguson:

SOYBEAN LEGEND, By Matthew Wilde

itting comfortably in a brown cloth-covered recliner with his feet propped in the air, Homer Ferguson has lots of stories to tell. So do the walls of his rural Cedar farmhouse. The 92-year-old farmer and World War II veteran has experienced his fair share of big moments in U.S. history and agriculture. The memorabilia, awards and pictures hanging in his living room are constant reminders. “I’ve led a great life,” Ferguson says with a proud smile. “The Lord has been good to me.” Ferguson can remember the first and last name of the local draft board chairman — Cecil Smith to be precise — more than 70 years ago. That alone should tell you a trip down memory lane with the former Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) president will be filled with colorful details about protecting and feeding the world.

Sit back and enjoy the true tales of an American hero and soybean legend.

Silver anniversary

Last year marked the 25th anniversary of the national soybean checkoff. A milestone with significant meaning to Ferguson. Soybeans — an excellent source of protein for livestock and people — were an up-and-coming cash crop in the 1980s. According to Ferguson, he and other state soybean leaders at the time believed a larger, dedicated source of farmer-controlled funds beyond refundable state checkoffs was needed to take the versatile legume to the next level. Ferguson, ISA president in 1988, and other farmers tirelessly advocated for a national, nonrefundable soybean checkoff. In 1991, farmers voted to collect one-half of 1 percent of the net market value of every bushel of

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soybeans sold nationwide for research, promotion and education. He rattled off the goals of the checkoff — increase yields, quality, consumption and prices — as if he was trying to convince a skeptical farmer decades ago to support it. His passion for the industry remains. “Soybeans are a fabulous crop,” Ferguson says. “I don’t think people realize how important the checkoff has been.” According to U.S. Department of Agriculture data, soybeans nationwide in 1991: • Averaged $5.51 per bushel • Averaged 34.2 bushels per acre • Production totaled nearly 2 billion bushels • Crush totaled 1.25 billion bushels • Exports totaled 684 million bushels The proof of the checkoff’s success is in the numbers.

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According to the latest government estimates, soybeans nationwide in 2016: • Projected season-average price at $9 to $10 per bushel • Averaged a record 52 bushels per acre • Production totaled a record 4.3 billion bushels • Crush totaled 1.93 billion bushels • Exports totaled 2.05 billion bushels “I think it’s been successful,” Ferguson says with conviction. Soybean utilization (particularly exports) and production exploded in large part due to the national checkoff, according to ISA CEO Kirk Leeds. The foresight and persistent work of soybean leaders like Ferguson is why, he adds. Ferguson spent time talking with soybean buyers here and abroad and made sure research benefited all growers and the industry. “The ability and commitment of farmers to look into the future for the collective good is amazing,” Leeds says. “Homer was focused on his family, farm and the broader good.”

Serving the nation

“Remember Pearl Harbor.” It was a saying used to gear America up for war. Ferguson took it to heart. Still in high school when Japan bombed Pearl Harbor, he watched an older brother and others go to war. After graduation, he and two best friends received farm deferments from the draft. Ferguson initially did his part by helping feed the nation and troops. In the winter, he worked at Maytag in Newton making aircraft parts. But he and his able-bodied buddies wanted to do more. In early 1943, the teenagers told Cecil is was time for them to be drafted. “We knew we couldn’t enlist because our folks wouldn’t like it,” recalls Ferguson. “The three of us figured we should just go over and get the thing done. When I left I didn’t think I would come back.”

Close calls

Ferguson arrived in the Pacific theater in late 1943. He was attached to the U.S. Army’s

AMERICAN HERO

111th Infantry Regiment, tasked with mop-up duty on islands — Tinian, Saipan, Peleliu, etc. — after the main invasions. The unit would find and root out remaining Japanese forces. Although Ferguson was a bugler, he routinely went out on patrols. Attacks from Japanese soldiers living in caves and tunnels and sniper fire were a constant threat. So were booby traps. “It was kind of dangerous in the jungle,” the white-bearded war hero says. One day on patrol, an officer found a dead Japanese soldier and ordered Ferguson and others to bury him. “I said, ‘I don’t think so sir, get back,’” Ferguson recounts with a stern voice. “They booby trapped bodies, booby trapped swords. If you found one, you left it alone.” Sure enough, the body was rigged to explode. “He was new,” Ferguson says. While on Peleliu, his unit found a cache of new weapons. Once deemed safe, they ended up as war trophies. An unused Japanese Army rifle in pristine condition with a fixed bayonet hangs on Ferguson’s living room wall, a reminder of his time overseas and those that didn’t make it home. “I had a lot of close calls, but I came back and had five children,” Ferguson says. “The good Lord had to be with me.”

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Homer and Alice Ferguson were tireless soybean advocates, who some referred to as a soy power couple.

Enola Gay

Farming and life during the Great Depression wasn’t easy. Real horse Not many people today can say they power plowed the fields. Corn was saw arguably the most famous plane of World War II before one of the most historic picked by hand. And everybody had a job. flights in history. “I came home after first grade Ferguson recalls seeing the Enola Gay (kindergarten wasn’t available) and piloted by Col. Paul Tibbets on the island dad said if you are old enough for of Tinian before it took off for its infamous school, your old enough to milk. flight to Japan on Aug. 6, 1945. The B-29’s So I milked nine cows by hand,” payload: The atomic bomb named “Little Boy,” which essentially ended World War II. Ferguson says, showing off his strong, weathered hands. “We did a lot more “They told (Col. Tibbets) that when he manual labor then.” dropped it (on Hiroshima) get out as quick His father used two teams of horses as he could,” Ferguson says. for field work. When one team got Ferguson’s unit was moved to Tinian tired, he used the other. in preparation for the invasion of Japan. “Dad named the horses after While there he took pictures of planes, two widow ladies in town … mom didn’t of them happen to be the Enola Gay and Bockscar, the B-29 that dropped the atomic care for that much,” Ferguson quipps. The family planted their first bomb “Fat Man” on Nasasaki. soybean crop in 1938. Ferguson At the time, he didn’t know the believes it averaged 38 bushels significance of either aircraft. per acre. “When they dropped the atomic “We wanted the income from the bombs, it got the war over just that quick,” beans,” Homer says. “Plus, they put Ferguson says. “It saved us from invading Japan, which would have cost a lot of lives (nitrogen) fertilizer in the ground for corn. We didn’t have chemical on both sides.” fertilizer at the time, and corn produced better after beans.” Home sweet home Ferguson has traveled the world Farm progress preserving freedom and promoting 1940 was a big year. The Fergusons soybeans, but rural Cedar is home. bought their first tractor and got His parents bought a 110-acre farm electricity. about 10 miles southwest of Oskaloosa Both made life easier. The new in 1918. They built a home shortly after, John Deere Model A was the best which Homer lives in today. “I still sleep in the room I was born in,” $925 investment the family ever made, Ferguson says. Ferguson says. 2 6 | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 7 | I A S OY B E A N S .C O M

“We thought the tractor was pretty good after horses,” he adds. Mechanization allowed the farm to grow. The Fergusons purchased and rented more ground and entered into share-crop agreements. Sometimes land was several miles away from the farmstead, which wasn’t possible before. Eventually a John Deere 720 was purchased for more power. Equipment size kept pace with the acres. “There’s no other color on this farm but green,” says Sondra VanDerPol, Homer’s daughter. “The more mechanized we got, the more land we could farm.”

Happy homecoming

After returning from the war, Ferguson took over the family farm. By then it was several hundred acres, which was considered big for the time. Homer then met a young lady named Alice during a function in Eddyville. They were married in 1949 and had five children. The operation — corn, soybeans, oats, hay, pasture, cattle, hogs, sheep — kept growing. “We had everything,” Homer says. “I share cropped a lot of farms (owned by local widows). With five kids, we didn’t have a lot of money to rent or buy.” Horses were no longer used by 1950. A John Deere 45 combine became the main harvesting tool. “The landlords were glad to see that.

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I could do all the picking and less help was needed,” Homer says. Ferguson’s farming operation evolved with the times. Pigs raised outdoors moved into confinement buildings. Cattle also moved to feedlots and indoors. Corn cribs were replaced with grain bins. In the early 1970s, Ferguson farmed more than 2,000 acres. The operation reached its zenith at about 3,500 acres. Homer actively farmed with his son Joe until a few years ago when a second stroke kept him from the tractor cab for good. Today, Joe farms more than 800 acres of soybeans and corn on halves with his dad.

Serving farmers

It wasn’t enough for Homer and Alice to help feed the world. They wanted to ensure other farmers were successful too. Each spent countless hours as volunteers with commodity and farm organizations, often in leadership roles. The ISA and American Soybean Association (ASA) were two of their favorites.

Homer served in several ISA leadership roles from 1984-88. Alice (now deceased) was involved in the ISA Voluntary Soybean Promoters, which helped educate the public about soybeans and soybean oil. “I figured if I wanted to grow soybeans I needed to be involved,” Homer says. “The (soybean) organizations helped us improve yields, prices and made farming better.” Sondra adds, “When mom started to work with soybeans, she found her niche. People didn’t know how important the crop was so she did presentations, cooking demonstrations … we had more tofu in food than we ever wanted as kids.” Accolades from commodity, livestock and farm organizations are easy to find in Ferguson’s home. The ASA Lifetime Achievement Award, ISA Outstanding Member Award, KBIZ Radio Southeast Iowa Farm Family of the Year Award and the 1957 Jaycees Outstanding Young Farmer Award are just a few that pay tribute to the couple’s dedicated service to agriculture.

“I wasn’t working to get them … but I appreciated it,” says Homer. Leeds says all are well deserved. “Homer and Alice made a powerful team when it came to promoting our industry,” Leeds says. “There’s nothing flashy about Homer. Just sincerity and the desire to do good, important work.”

The future

Homer went from using horses to four-wheel-drive tractors with a couple hundred horse power to farm. He used to harvest 3,500 bushels of corn in a season by hand. Now his combine can do that in less than two hours. “It became easier to farm,” he says. The veteran farmer has seen it all. He expects more progress in the future. “Knowing what I went through, I can’t imagine what farming will be like years from now,” he surmises. “They already have driverless tractors. I wish I knew what was coming, but I don’t. “I can’t help but believe that big changes are in store,” he adds. “Just enjoy each day.”

"I FIGURED IF I WANTED TO GROW SOYBEANS I NEEDED TO BE INVOLVED" — Homer Ferguson

Homer Ferguson feeds hogs outdoors. He experienced plenty of changes in agriculture, including pigs being raised predominantly indoors.

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THE STORY BEHIND

THE INDUSTRY’S BEST FARMER-FOCUSED RESEARCH At Beck’s, being a seed supplier means more than delivering a high-yielding product. That’s why Beck’s invests heavily into our Practical Farm Research (PFR)® program. A program that goes beyond the seed and focuses on the industry’s latest farming technologies and management practices. Because it’s difficult for

farmers to evaluate all the options, PFR delivers replicated data from over 100 studies at six research locations across the Midwest. If a product performs well, we publish it. If it doesn’t perform well, then we still publish it. The results speak for themselves and the goal remains the same — to help farmers succeed.