Iowa Soybean Review | April 2022 by Iowa Soybean Association

April 2022

Grower Insights

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 1

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Executive Committee President Robb Ewoldt, Davenport | D6 President Elect Randy Miller, Lacona | D8 Treasurer Dave Walton, Wilton | D6

April 2022 | Vol. 34, No. 6

Secretary Suzanne Shirbroun, Farmersburg | D3 At-Large Director Jeff Frank, Auburn | D4

Iowa Soybean Review is published monthly by: Iowa Soybean Association 1255 SW Prairie Trail Parkway, Ankeny, Iowa 50023 (515) 251-8640 | iasoybeans.com E-mail: bbaratta@iasoybeans.com For advertising information in the Iowa Soybean Review, please contact Bethany Baratta at (515) 334-1020 or bbaratta@iasoybeans.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.

12 Grower

Perspectives

U.S. soybean farmers share their outlooks prior to the 2022 growing season.

20 Return on Investment

Database communicates checkoff-funded research.

22 Celebrating Soy

It’s fuel, feed and also food and beverages. Celebrate soy during National Soyfoods Month.

24 Rise of Brazil

Ag powerhouse has implication on Iowa soybean farmers. On the Cover: Des Moines County farmer Michael Fosdick says communicating checkoffrelated projects through SRIN helps demonstrate ROI.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 3

Executive Insights Kirk Leeds, ISA Chief Executive Off icer kleeds@iasoybeans.com

We’ve Got This

ncertainty and stress are part of life. For soybean farmers, the challenges heading into this planting season seem especially acute. As if the pandemic, persistent drought, supply chain issues and rampant inflation weren’t enough to keep our minds occupied, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine adds to the concerns. Putin’s blatant disregard for life and property is maddening and heartbreaking. The suffering and economic fallout from this needless conflict will be long-lasting. I pray for a quick resolution. Perhaps a silver lining emerging from the chaos is a renewed mindfulness of the importance of family, relationships and those special activities or places that bring us joy and fulfilment. It’s easy to take these things for granted. Let’s be more intentional and be present for them and in them. When challenged, I find it beneficial to see the best in each other and the moment. Focusing on the important stuff brings

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much-needed peace and calm. Experience and wisdom cannot be overstated when challenges arise. While none of us like the aches and pains (or gray hairs) that come with aging, lessons learned from dealing with ups and downs enable us to better manage what life throws at us. We can better discern what we can change and accept what we can’t. Experience brings wisdom and with it, confidence. As I’ve progressed in my time at the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), I’ve also come to embrace the adage, “This too shall pass.” It’s not a flippant or passive remark but acknowledgement of, “We’ve been here before, and we’ll get through it again.” Shortly after getting this job in the early ‘90s, I read “Embrace Chaos” authored by Tom Peters. The popular author and motivational speaker touted the importance of bringing context to events that come our way. When focused only on the here and now, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and feel helpless. But when

we step back and review the events more holistically and with historical context, we can be more pragmatic and effective leaders. ISA has a proven history of taking on challenges with an entrepreneurial spirt and belief we will make an impact. We’re students of history and rely on the wisdom of our farmer leaders to bring context and big-picture thinking to successfully manage chaos. We believe choppy waters sharpen focus, generate new partnerships and stimulate more effective strategies to accomplish goals. We’re enduring incredible changes and challenges. Loved ones have been impacted by the pandemic. Nations are at war. New technologies are emerging at warp speed, market volatility is immense, and labor and input costs are constantly in flux. But together, we’ll overcome the chaos by embracing it, keeping our eye on the ball, and doing really important stuff with purpose and the people who matter most. We’ve got this.

( YOU ) You’re where the rubber meets the road. And the engine. And the interior. All soybean farmers, including you, are busy replacing petroleum with your soy oil. How? By pooling your resources through your soy checkoff. Learn how your soy checkoff is bringing tangible returns back to you and your operation at unitedsoybean.org/hopper.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 5

Stowe Named Director of U.S. Soybean Research Collaborative BY AARON PUTZE, APR

multistate soybean research initiative dedicated to more effective coordination and collaboration among all sectors of the industry to the benefit of farmers has named its inaugural director. Katherine Drake Stowe takes the helm of the U.S. Soybean Research Collaborative (USSRC). The project, involving multiple state and national soybean organizations, including Qualified State Soybean Boards and the United Soybean Board, will initiate and sustain greater connectivity between agronomic soybean research and all facets of the U.S. soy supply chain. Soybean leaders in Iowa and Illinois have provided initial funding to kickstart the USSRC. Additional funding and engagement partners are reviewing and acting on investment proposals. The project was developed from discussions held at the first annual Soybean Research Forum and Think Tank held last year in Indianapolis. “Greater coordination and transparency on soybean research are essential to the industry’s future success,” says Stowe, who previously served as research coordinator for the North Carolina Soybean Producers Association (NCSPA). “There are tremendous efficiencies and outcomes that can result from networking more effectively within the U.S. soybean family. “I’m looking forward to building bridges between U.S. soybean farmers

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and public institutions, private industries, and federal and state agencies and departments,” she adds. “Doing so will enhance the pace and success of checkoff-funded research, bringing greater value to every soybean farmer.” The project will raise awareness, build bridges and create collaborative

public and private partnerships that go beyond traditional research, which has been focused on production and new uses. One potential outcome from greater collaboration throughout the soy value

chain is linking traits and genetics of soybeans produced by farmers with the needs of the end user. This would be especially beneficial as farmers look to grow soybeans yielding greater oil content to meet the needs of processors and users of biofuels, including renewable diesel. “USSRC is about exploring new research opportunities and endeavors to complement and give added emphasis to what states, regions and USB are leading,” Stowe says. “It’s about adding to, not replacing or usurping the great work that has and is being done.” Stowe was raised on a family farm in eastern North Carolina where she gained a love and appreciation for agriculture. She attended North Carolina State University where she earned a B.S. in Polymer and Color Chemistry and a M.S. and Ph.D. in Crop Science. During her time with the NCSPA, Stowe helped soybean growers improve their productivity and profitability by leading the association’s research efforts. She served as the liaison between research partners and soybean farmers and communicated results from sponsored research to growers. “I have a passion for serving soybean farmers and contributing to their success,” she adds. “I look forward to bringing my skills, expertise and relationships to this new endeavor to make USSRC a helpful partner to all sectors of the soybean industry.”

On World Food Day and every day, WISHH’S strategic partners take local action.

Guatemalan Rotary Clubs - a WISHH Strategic Partner

Connect with WISHH www.wishh.org

WISHH is a program of the American Soybean Association and is funded in part by the United Soybean Board and state soybean board checkoff programs. IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 7

Activate or Confirm your Membership Your investment in the soybean checkoff powers the Iowa Soybean Association. Farmer membership is available to you at no additional cost. We customize your membership to meet your needs, sending you the information and providing the resources you need to make farming decisions that keep you competitive. Put our expertise and services to work for you — confirm your membership today at iasoybeans.com/join.

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WISHH is a program of the American Soybean Association and is funded in part by the United Soybean Board and state soybean board checkoff programs. IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 9

Five Trends Impacting the Future of the Global Soy Market BY BROCK JOHNSTON

n 2021, U.S. soybean farmers grew nearly one-third of the soybeans in the global market. To ensure U.S. soy retains access to a quickly changing, consumerdriven market, five state soybean checkoff groups jointly funded an effort designed to help soybean farmers make smart and informed decisions that will increase opportunities for future access. The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), in partnership with the Illinois Soybean Association, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council and Ohio Soybean Council, conducted the Future State of Soy report that identified high-impact trends for soy in the years to come. “As soy demand grows and usage diversifies, these trends provide farmers with decisionmaking insights that will better position them for future success,” says Robb Ewoldt, ISA president and soybean farmer of Davenport. This exercise uncovered five major trends that will impact the global soy market and U.S. soybean farmers in particular.

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The five trends identified in the Future State of Soy exercise include: •

A rising focus on high-quality soybean oil and meal;

•

Changes in fuel demand, including alternative fuels and emerging fuel uses;

•

The expanded need for protein given a growing global population, both in animal and plant form;

•

The increasing global competition for soy and how infrastructure can provide an impactful advantage; and

•

Emerging and diversified revenue streams that will offer farmers more opportunities.

The soybean checkoff invests in several programs, both at the national and state levels, to find new markets, uses and characteristics of soybeans that will align with these trends. These five areas of focus will serve as a litmus test when determining if future investments will result in strong returns for U.S. soybean farmers. ISA continues to invest in projects to support these trends, including an emphasis on reliable infrastructure as

key to accessing global soy markets. To ensure the future success of Iowa soybean farmers, ISA partnered with several state and national organizations for a $1 million commitment to improve and expand the aging infrastructure along the Upper Mississippi River, specifically Lock and Dam 25, located in Winfield, Missouri. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has since added the project to its’ work list of projects to receive funding this year, after the entity received $732 million from the federal government for infrastructure improvements along the Mississippi River. As the soybean checkoff continues to position U.S. soy for the future, this work will help influence how the world perceives the value of domestic soy and soy products. “The unique approach to this exercise really removed the bias some of us may have for segments of agriculture or part of the soybean supply chain,” says Ewoldt. “For instance, the need for more protein doesn’t prioritize animal protein over plant protein. The fact is soy is in an enviable position to support both food segments. Both will be valuable markets for U.S. soy in the future.” To learn more about the Future State of Soy report, visit futurestateofsoy.org.

( YOU ) Who’s the No. 1 protein source in chicken feed? YOU are. That’s right. You’re winning. All soybean farmers, including you, are really big in poultry and livestock feed. How? By pooling your resources through your soy checkoff. Learn how your soy checkoff is bringing tangible returns back to you and your operation at unitedsoybean.org/hopper.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 11

Grower Perspectives Farmers discuss opportunities and risks ahead of planting BY BETHANY BARATTA

his growing season, soy is projected to overtake corn when it comes to acres. The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service’s (NASS) prospective plantings report, released March 31, estimates a record 91 million acres of soybeans will be planted in the U.S. this year, up 4% from 2021. Corn acreage is projected at 89.5 million acres, down 4% from 2021. Iowa farmers are expected to plant 10.4 million acres of soybeans in 2022, up 3% from 2021. Iowa corn acres are projected at 12.6 million acres, down 2% from last year. In a discussion hosted by U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) CEO Jim Sutter, U.S. soybean farmers shared their perspectives ahead of the 2022 growing season. Farmers participating in the webcast included: Tim Bardole, a fifth-generation farmer near Rippey, Iowa. Bardole

farms with his father, brother and his son, who is the sixth generation on the farm. They grow soybeans and corn, raise pigs in a nursery and custom feed hogs. Bardole is a past president of the Iowa Soybean Association and a current director on the United Soybean Board (USB). “We definitely have deep roots, and

we care deeply about the land and the products we produce,” Bardole says. David Nichols, a fourth-generation farmer in Ridgely, Tennessee, and a USB director. He farms with his wife

and two sons. They grow soybeans, soft red winter wheat and corn. Soybeans and wheat go to export markets. The farm’s location in Tennessee allows the family to doublecrop their soft red winter wheat acres. “I always tell my son, ‘If we don’t do something different, we don’t learn.’ So, we’re always trying new practices to push our yields higher,” Nichols says. Jim Douglas, a USB director and fourthgeneration farmer from Flat Rock, Indiana, raises soybeans, corn and hogs in a wean-to-finish system. He farms with

his son, and the family raises non-GMO corn for the export market. They also grow high oleic soybeans and seed beans, which are used the following year during the planting season. “Farmers are geared up to plant this year’s crop,” Douglas told global customers during the USSEC webcast. “It’ll go in and be a successful season; we should have an ample supply of soybeans to provide everybody.”

Sutter: The USDA suggests more acres will be planted with soybeans this year, considering input prices and other factors. Are you shifting acreage or doing anything differently? Bardole: We’re keeping with our normal rotation, which means we’ll have a little more corn than soybeans this year. The majority of the fertilizer is already on for the corn, and I don’t see anybody really switching. We’re farther north than some, so we can put fertilizer and nitrogen on in the fall so it’s pretty well set. Douglas: We want to raise about 60% corn, but we’re prepared if the season doesn’t work out, and then we’ll go to a 50-50 split. In our part of the state, fall nitrogen application isn’t a practice that’s used. That being said, fall applications in other states will take some pressure off the supply system this spring. Nichols: Since we’re in the south and we’re a bit warmer, we rely on inseason nitrogen applications. We’re up against a tremendous price increase on the inputs side, so we’re increasing our soybean acres this year. We’ll be raising soybeans on 70% of the acres and corn on 30%. In this area of the country, soybean acres will be up.

Photos courtesy of USB. 12 | APRIL 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

Sutter: On your farms, how are you managing risks? Bardole: Every year, the risks are different. The past two years, we have paid for fertilizer much earlier than usual. We try not to change much as far as inputs are concerned because of our crop rotations. We utilize the Chicago Board of Trade to price out crops into the future to limit risk. Douglas: Over the last few years, we’ve invested in on-farm fuel,

fertilizer and grain storage. We weren’t thinking about this type of (price) event to drive it, but we did think it was prudent to have those under control to have some flexibility when you buy those inputs. With our hog operation, we’ve always considered it diversification on the financial side, but now we’re seeing how valuable it is on the input side of the equation. Nichols: As input prices started to turn higher and availability started to be an issue, I got into the marketplace

and assessed crop protection and chemistries we use and secured those. We’ve seen some of those prices go up 400% to 600% from a year ago. We’re also utilizing federal crop insurance programs to shore up some of that risk. Our environment is a little bit hotter and drier, and soybeans take out some of the weather risk. In my operation, planting more soybeans is a safer play for us. Contact Bethany Baratta at bbaratta@iasoybeans.com.

“We definitely have deep roots, and we care deeply about the land and the products we produce.” — Tim Bardole, USB director f rom Rippey

Bardole, a past president of the Iowa Soybean Association, says he will stick to his traditional rotation, which favors more corn than soybeans in 2022. Photo: Joclyn Bushman / Iowa Soybean Association.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 13

Strive for Uniformity A late-emerging soybean could affect your bottom line BY KRISS NELSON

neven seedling emergence in corn will reduce profitability and yield. Less known, however, are the effects of uneven emergence on soybean yields. To better understand this relationship, the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI) teamed up with northeast Iowa farmer and agronomist Troy Deutmeyer. Deutmeyer’s research included three locations in Iowa. He marked the soybean plants according to their day of emergence and tracked the plant phenology throughout the season. “We want those soybean plants to emerge within two to at most three days of each other,” Deutmeyer says.

“After this time, we see significant yield loss from plant to plant on the late emergers.” Studies show that late-emerging soybean plants produce 20% fewer pods and have more than 30% fewer threebean pods. Scott Nelson, ISA senior field services program manager, says the study cannot answer the question of how delayed emergence affects final yield. “Early-emerging soybean plants may or may not grow more branches when next to late-emerging plants, for example,” he says. “What is clear, is uneven emergence in soybeans reduces top-end yield as each plant does not contribute equally to yield.”

Georgia farmer Randy Dowdy set the world record for soybean yield in 2019 at 190 bushels an acre. “Emergence is something Randy stresses in his soybean production,” Nelson says.

Achieving uniform emergence Soybean producers should look at achieving uniform plant emergence in the same way they work to attain uniform emergence in corn. The first step is at harvest. “It all starts with the combine path in the fall, making sure we have uniform residue distribution,” says Deutmeyer. Uniform residue distribution will

Troy Deutmeyer worked with ISA’s RCFI team to study effects of uneven emergence in soybean production.

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allow consistent temperatures and moisture throughout the seed trench. An area with little to no residue will dry out and warm up quicker versus an area with a large amount of residue. “It can be four to five degrees cooler just a few inches down the row,” Deutmeyer says. “Residue distribution is extremely critical, and it starts with the combine pass in the fall.” Deutmeyer says ensuring the residue is evenly distributed after each tillage pass for those with tillage systems is important.

Planting Uniform seeding depth and seedto-soil contact are integral to achieving even soybean plant emergence. “As we go up and down through the soil profile, there are obviously differences in moisture and temperature, and these factors affect the speed of germination,” says Deutmeyer. “Uniform seed-to-soil contact will help ensure every seed is imbibing water at the same rate, which will trigger the germination process.” One of the first steps to achieving uniform seed-to-soil contact is seed placement, says Anthony Martin, ISA senior field services program manager. The seed depth will vary, depending on

the farmer’s system. “Conventional tillage would likely hint at a slightly deeper placement than no-till or cover crops,” says Martin. “The important piece is getting the seed trench closed properly and making sure there is adequate moisture at the planting depth.” Planter residue managers will also help with seed-to-soil contact dispersing residue out of the seed trench. Martin advises not to rely solely on the planter’s monitor. “Get out of the tractor frequently, and check the planting depth. Make sure everything is set correctly so what your monitor is saying is what is actually happening behind the planter.”

Seed treatments Deutmeyer says seed treatments allow more vigor and less variability when establishing a uniform soybean seed stand. RCFI has conducted seed treatment studies. The results are available by utilizing the ISOFAST tool or reviewing individual field trial reports on ISA’s website. Martin says ILeVO® showed the most significant yield advantage, whereas about half of the other seed treatments showed a significant, positive yield response.

Checking for uniformity Deutmeyer recommends producers try a flag test, taking 5 feet of a row, visiting every 12 to 24 hours and evaluating each plant as it emerges. “Uniform emergence can take someone from that good crop to an excellent crop quite quickly,” he says.

Continued studies Deutmeyer and his Wisconsin counterparts plan to continue with the trial. “It’s been interesting to see the data from my colleagues in southwest Wisconsin along with our northeast Iowa data showing consistent year-over-year results on the impact of uneven emergence on a plant-to-plant soybean yield,” says Deutmeyer. “It’s an incredibly strong trend to support the hypothesis.” Martin says the RCFI agronomy team is available to assist farmers interested in starting their own onfarm plant emergence trials. For more information, contact Martin at amartin@ iasoybeans.com or Nelson at snelson@iasoybeans.com. Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com. IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 15

Achieving Optimum Soil Fertility Soil fertility can have a direct effect on yields BY KRISS NELSON

Drew Clemmensen says limiting tillage is one piece of improving soil health.

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s fertilizer prices continue to spike, farmers are looking for ways to reduce their input costs. One solution could be improving their soil’s fertility. “Soil fertility is the ability to support plant life; it becomes a measure of the soil’s ability to hold, store and move nutrients as well as support microorganisms,” says Drew Clemmensen, field services program manager for the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA). The simplest way to understand soil fertility levels is learning what nutrients the crop is removing and what to replace, Clemmensen says. “The goal is to build a system where you are replacing nutrients that you’re removing,” he says. “This way, you’re not depleting the soil every cropping cycle.” Replacing nutrients also maximizes fertilizer efficiency, utilizing commercial fertilizer to its fullest extent, Clemmensen says. Steve McGrew, ISA farmer-member from Emerson, says they rely on a grid sampling program to understand their soils. “To help manage our soil fertility, we sample our fields in 2.5-acre grids,” says McGrew. “With those results, we make prescriptions for our P and K based on Iowa State University recommendations and their Nitrogen Rate Calculator, which is based on the price of corn and fertilizer prices.” This approach, McGrew says,

allows them to take a conservative approach to commercial fertilizer applications.

Journey to increased soil fertility Healthier soils feature better structure, more air space to hold nutrients and support microbiomes to help readily convert nutrients into a plant-usable form. “If you have healthy soils, nutrients will become more accessible to the plant throughout the growing season,” says Clemmensen. When it comes to better soil health and structure, Clemmensen says the No. 1 goal is limiting tillage. “If a farmer can switch to limited tillage or no-till, there is a lot better chance of being successful in improving soil health. And there is no better time than the present, as the process is a timely one. The goal to improving soil health has a side benefit of enhancing nutrient utilization in soils, but it’s necessary to take those first steps, Clemmensen says. “Making soil modifications will be challenging for the first three to five years. It takes a while to get the system in place and working,” he says. In addition to improving soil fertility, there are several environmental benefits of conservation efforts used to achieve better soil health. “There is a reduction in leaching and runoff,” Clemmensen says. “Those

soils will hold nutrients better and make them more available for the plant. This keeps the nutrients where they are intended, reducing the risk of leaching and running off.” The McGrews rely heavily on infield practices to improve soil health. “We have terraces, use no-till and are heavy in cover crops. These methods are a big part of increasing our soil health – it increases our organic matter and helps reduce erosion,” McGrew says.

Soil fertility research ISA is working on trials to help evaluate the process of achieving healthier soils, including yield differences. Clemmensen says the team is evaluating no-till vs. conventional tillage systems, and cover crop systems vs. no cover crop systems. After five years of study, yields are leveling out between the two systems. Although yields may change, Clemmensen says there is a reduction in the amount of nutrients needed to support a particular yield level. Therefore, a producer sees an increase in their bottom line. ISA’s team at the Research Center for Farming Innovation, which includes agronomists like Clemmensen, is ready to help farmers transition to healthier and more fertile soils. “Take the long-term approach and visually look at what farm and soila are going to look like down the road,” Clemmensen says. “If you want to pass it along to the next generation, you not only want to sustain yield levels, but grow them.” Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com.

“If you have healthy soils, nutrients will become more accessible to the plant throughout the growing season.” — Drew Clemmensen, ISA f ield services program manager

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 17

Preston Grobe hopes this year’s weather will be favorable for his soybean and corn crops in west central Iowa.

Weather Outlook Genetics, fertility can help drought-proof crop acres BY BETHANY BARATTA

early three-quarters of Iowa was covered by drought or abnormally dry conditions in 2021. However, Iowa farmers produced a record 621.86 million bushels of soybeans. Many farmers in the state were surprised with their final yields, Preston Grobe included. “We had the best beans farm average-wise we’ve ever had,” says Grobe, an ISA farmer-member near Avoca in west central Iowa. He attributes quality genetics, soil fertility practices and just-in-time rains

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to his soybean crop’s success at 85 bushels per acre. State Climatologist of Iowa Justin Glisan says the state is short on subsoil moisture but faring better than last year at this time. Though some areas of the state saw measurable snow this winter, soils were frozen and didn’t get the water equivalent moisture. December 2020 through February 2021, defined as the meteorological winter, ranked as one of the 16th driest on record. “We have some muddy surfaces due

to the freezing and thawing effects, but generally we’re seeing drier conditions as we approach the growing season,” Glisan says.

Double dip Drought is expected to persist in parts of north central, east central and west central Iowa through June, according to the initial April outlook from the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC) released on March 17. There’s also an elevated probability of warmer temperatures through June for the entire state of Iowa.

“Genetics and fertility go hand in hand to droughtproof as much as we can.” — Preston Grobe, ISA farmer-member f rom Avoca

La Nina is favored to continue into the Northern Hemisphere this summer, with a 40 to 50% chance of La Nina or ENSO-neutral thereafter, according to the CPC. “We call this a double-dip La Nina,” Glisan says. “Typically, we see La Nina in the winter and then transition into ENSO neutral conditions in the spring – between El Nino and La Nina – then we almost always see a secondary La Nina form the next winter, and that’s what happened.” The outlook mirrors last year’s

dry weather and below-average rainfall, where drought expanded into various parts of Iowa. “Overall, if you look at the 2021 growing season we had those million dollar rainfalls right when we needed them,” Glisan says. Grobe hopes to catch more timely rains – ones that will benefit both soybeans and corn. Last year’s corn crop varied widely, with a 50-bushel per acre yield swing within fields due to the timing of some too-little, too-late rainfalls during an abnormally drymoderate drought year.

He attributes his fertility program, including biological products and seed genetics, for providing some drought tolerance for last year’s crop. “Genetics and fertility go hand in hand to drought-proof as much as we can,” Grobe says. He plans to stick to his rotation, which leans a little more toward corn this year, despite the expected dry conditions. “I’m an optimist,” Grobe says. “I feel that genetics and fertility have come a long way in helping to protect the crop – you just have to be willing to adopt the practices.” Contact Bethany Baratta at bbaratta@iasoybeans.com.

From 2017 to 2021, there hasn’t been a clear correlation between precipitation between March and August and total soybean production in Iowa. (Graph courtesy of Justin Glisan, IDALS) IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 19

Return on Investment Michael Fosdick says SRIN demonstrates how checkoff dollars are invested to bring value to farmers.

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Web-based platform communicates projects funded through checkoff investments BY JOSEPH HOPPER

ike genetic, biological and agronomic developments, advances in ag technology are making a difference on the farm. Ag tech — tools that collect and process data — can help farmers maximize productivity, efficiency, profitability and sustainability. However, selecting and investing in specific ag tech tools and resources to best fit your operation can be challenging. Enter the Soybean Research and Information Network (SRIN). SRIN communicates how checkoff dollars are invested at the state, regional and national levels on a range of agronomic and production topics. It also helps farmers see the potential of putting innovations to work on their farms. “SRIN is a continually evolving, web-based platform,” says ISA Sr. Director of Research Ed Anderson. “Its purpose is to make clear and promote with farmers, the research they fund at the universities in their states and across the region.”

At the bleeding edge Diving into SRIN’s offerings at soybeanresearchinfo.com, farmers can search for projects by topic, state, organization and region to learn the latest information. One example is ISA’s in partnership with Iowa State University and John Deere to explore ways to map soybean yield and protein

and oil content at harvest. Researchers are also exploring how innovations in sensor technology, machine learning and analytics work together to precisely assess soybean growth, development, yield and quality to affect marketing decisions. “It’s a good example of these private-public partnerships and leveraging checkoff dollars with other funding and in-kind support that will bring value to farmers,” Anderson says. “The ISA Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI) contributes technical expertise to support university researchers, while the soybean checkoff is leveraged with company support and equipment. He adds, “This is the technology for being able to precisely map where in the field you’re getting what yield and seed composition quality at harvest. It’s a cool project demonstrating how strong genetics, good agronomic management and new agritechnologies combine to bring greater value to farmers.” One other example of the growing number of ag technology projects is how the South Carolina Soybean Board invests checkoff funds in Clemson University research to develop tools from aerial image analysis to recognize poorly nodulated soybeans. In fact, there are many projects

across the country involving drone technology. Soy checkoff funding from the Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board allows a Louisiana State University researcher to determine how farmers can see crop variance with lower-cost, basic drones from major retailers. “We want to talk to farmers about their short-term and longterm checkoff investments,” Anderson says. “And how they may benefit from them in the future and also where the progress is occurring today.”

Ready for the future The lines between discovery and on-farm research are blurring, helping both researchers and farmers benefit faster from multidisciplinary efforts. ISA Farmer Member Michael Fosdick, who farms near Sperry, has worked with the RCFI team doing long-term cover crop research for more than five years. The Des Moines County farmer says research partnerships make all the difference. “In farming, there are lots of ways to raise a crop and invest those dollars,” Fosdick says. “At the end of the day, identifying where those dollars are best being spent is a huge win for any farmer.” Contact Joseph Hopper at jhopper@iasoybeans.com.

Learn more at soybeanresearchinfo.com.

Laura Temple contributed to this story.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 21

Edamame and Corn Salad

Versatility, Ease of Prep Make Soy Shine 3 reasons to celebrate soyfoods month BY JOSEPH HOPPER

oybeans are often called a fuel and food, but they’re so much more. Soy is a sustainable plant protein, a healthy snack, a delicacy and a cold drink, during National Soyfoods Month in April and beyond.

Soy is the original “plant protein”

Soy has all the essential amino

22 | APRIL 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

acids our bodies need. It’s a complete protein source, and in 1999 the FDA gave soy protein its “heart-healthy claim,” which finds consuming 25 grams of soy protein per day in a healthy diet may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Soy is also a great source of calcium, with the same level of calcium absorption as dairy milk. It’s high in polyunsaturated

fats and provides omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids.

Soy may reduce breast cancer risk

Studies have shown if girls between the ages of 8 and 15 eat one or two servings of soy per day, they may reduce their risk of breast cancer later in life by up to 50%.

“This research is compelling when you start to look at how easy it is to incorporate soyfoods into one’s diet,” says Linda Funk, executive director of The Soyfoods Council. “Edamame is an easy one as is soymilk in the morning with cereal and soynuts. One serving of soynuts is just a quarter cup and it gives you approximately 12 to 14 grams of protein.” In addition to studies showing the benefits of soy consumption for young girls, some observational studies have found that women who consume soyfoods after a breast cancer diagnosis are less likely to have a reccurrence if they’re consuming soy. “We’ve really come full circle in the breast cancer discussion,” Funk says. “It’s not surprising that the American Cancer Society, Institute of

Cancer Research, Canadian Cancer Society and concluded that breast cancer patients can safely consume soy. We’re encouraging young girls to consume one to two servings of soy per day.”

Shelf-stable soyfoods shine

In a world where supply chains and what’s on store shelves continue to be popular subjects of discussions, silken tofu and canned black soybeans are among the most popular shelf-stable options. Black soybeans look like black beans and taste similar but have more protein and fewer carbohydrates. They go great with salsa and salads and create a delicious black bean dip. Contact Joseph Hopper at jhopper@iasoybeans.com.

For more soy recipes and tips, go to thesoyfoodscouncil.com.

Edamame and Corn Salad • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar • 1 tablespoon brown sugar • ½ teaspoon ground cumin • ½ teaspoon onion powder • 1 clove garlic, minced • 1 ½ cups cooked shelled edamame • 1 ½ cups cooked corn • ½ cup chopped red bell pepper In a small saucepan, combine vinegars, sugar, cumin, onion powder and garlic. Heat until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat. Place edamame, corn and red pepper in a medium bowl. Pour vinegar mixture over vegetables. Stir to mix. Cover and refrigerate 1 to 4 hours or until chilled, stirring once. Shortcut: Use ½ cup bottled balsamic vinegar dressing and add 1 teaspoon of cumin, stir to combine. Pour over edamame, corn and red pepper. Cover and refrigerate 1 to 4 hours or until chilled, stirring once. Yield: 6 servings.

Mexican Veggie Salad • 12 ounces frozen corn • 1 cup diced celery • • • •

½ cup diced red onion ½ cup sliced black olives 1 cup broccoli florets 1 cup cauliflowerettes

• 15 ounces black soybeans, rinsed and drained • 2 cups grape tomatoes, cut in half • 16 ounces shelled edamame • 1 package of zesty Italian dressing mix Prepare corn, edamame and Italian dressing according to package directions. Set each aside.

Mexican Veggie Salad

In a large mixing bowl, add all the vegetables, toss together. Add dressing, toss lightly. Cover, place in in refrigerator, to marinate overnight. Yield: 6-8 servings

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 23

Tim Bardole of Rippey hops aboard to combine soy in west central Mato Grosso.

Brazil’s Rise in Soy, Corn Production Consequential for Iowa Farmers STORIES AND PHOTOS BY AARON PUTZE, APR

normous swaths of land in central Brazil, once referred to as a “green desert,” have sprung to life. The transformation has elevated the country of 210 million into an agricultural supercenter holding longterm consequences for Iowa farmers. Travel through Mato Grosso, as a delegation of Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) farmer leaders did in February, and you’ll witness the

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equivalent of multiple U.S. growing seasons happening simultaneously. Stand at an intersection in the heart of the Brazilian state and you’ll see soybeans being harvested by a fleet of 10 John Deere combines outfitted with 45-foot drapers. Glance to the left and a four-wheel-drive tractor with a 24-row planter is seeding second-season corn. Behind you, a field of cotton is maturing.

PART 2 OF A 2-PART SERIES

And to your right, more than 12,000 acres of sugar cane are readying to be harvested and processed into ethanol and food and beverage sweetener. Welcome to Brazil, home of 24/7, 365 days-a-year agriculture. “I’m proud of what I do, but it’s difficult not to feel like I’m a failure when seeing the country’s modern and diversified farming operations,” says ISA Director Warren Bachman.

Some say Brazil has two seasons – one rainy, the other dry. In reality, it has just one, and it’s called the growing season. “I’ve never seen anything like it,” says Robb Ewoldt, a farmer from Davenport. “The sheer enormity and pace of activity boggles the mind. You can’t even believe it when you see it.” Ewoldt, who serves as ISA president, and Bachman of Osceola, participated in a two-week tour of Brazil in February. Stops included farms, commodity storage and processing facilities and biofuels plants and time navigating the country’s inland waterways. Ewoldt and Bachman were joined by fellow

YOUR TURN –

directors Tim Bardole of Rippey and Brent Swart of Spencer, and CEO Kirk Leeds.

Ag mecca Mato Grosso, the heartbeat of Brazilian agriculture, boasts a land area equivalent to Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, Illinois, Ohio and Indiana – combined – and farm productivity even more prolific. Entrepreneurs from the country’s southern regions migrated north almost 35 years ago, drawn by seemingly endless tracts of Cerrado and abundant natural resources. Land thought to be inhospitable for food production

quickly became productive with the use of fertilizer, modern farm equipment, ingenuity, growing global demand for protein and, at times, favorable government policy. Today, Mato Grosso and its 7,000 farms are prolific producers of soybeans, corn, cotton, sugar cane, popcorn, sunflower, cattle, pigs, and assorted vegetables and fruit. Despite being just one of 26 Brazilian states, Mato Grosso accounts for nearly 26% of the country’s acres planted with soybeans and roughly 30% of an estimated 4.7 billion bushels of soybean production. Almost 60% of the output is exported.

How will Brazil’s rise in corn and soybean

production impact your operation? Share your thoughts with us and be in the running to win a $25 Casey’s gift card.

Iowa Soybean Association directors (f rom left) Brent Swart (Spencer), Robb Ewoldt (Davenport), Tim Bardole (Rippey) and Warren Bachman (Osceola) give the thumbs-up after harvesting soybeans with Bom Futuro in western Mato Grosso.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 25

The intensity of agricultural production in Brazil has brought increased scrutiny f rom the global community, says ISA CEO Kirk Leeds, particularly on the topics of environment and energy conservation.

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25).

Mato Grosso also ranks first in cotton production, second in corn and leads the country in beef production, with 28 million head. Nearly every acre of corn and soybeans produced in Mato Grosso is no-tilled. “Many of the farms of any size and consequence are new farms – 20, 30, maybe 35 years old,” Swart says. “They don’t have bad habits to break. They’re modern, businessminded and focused on growth, sustainability and diversification.”

Environmental concerns Despite efforts to forgo tillage and generate more solar power, the state’s environmental scorecard is mixed. Nearly 40% of the Amazon rainforest is in Brazil. The ecological wonder is often referenced as the world’s “lungs” as it’s responsible for producing almost 20% of the planet’s oxygen. Since 1970, one-fifth of the Brazilian rainforest has been

Corn planted in January in Mato Grosso matures (foreground) with mandated legal preserves visible in the background.

26 | APRIL 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

repurposed. Native Cerrado is also being converted into pasture for cattle production. Then, three to four years later, that pasture transitions to row crop and sugar cane production. Rising commodity prices have spurred demand for quality farmland in Mato Grosso, which can fetch the U.S. equivalent of $10,000 per acre. In 2001, the Brazilian government mandated that land developed from the Cerrado for agricultural purposes must

maintain 20% in a legal preserve. That requirement increased to 35% two years ago and can be as much as 80% if heavily forested. “There’s clearing of the Cerrado and rain forest happening, but to a lesser extent than what is often reported or perceived,” Ewoldt says. “When you’re required to leave 35% to as much as 80% of land in permanent conservation depending on your location, it becomes increasingly cost-prohibitive to farm.” A rise in corn production and continued challenges with infrastructure also headlined the ISA leaders’ trip to Brazil. To date, corn has been relegated to second-crop status

in Brazil. But that’s changing as grain production in Mato Grosso now exceeds that of its oilseed counterpart. “It’s really been used primarily as a cover crop as farmers have only wanted to break even with corn production,” Leeds says. “Now, corn might become a major crop in Brazil as profits increase. That creates challenges for U.S. farmers as we don’t get to plant two major crops in the same year on the same acres.” Mato Grosso’s transformation to a leading corn producer is a trend U.S. farmers must pay close attention to, Leeds adds. Contact Aaron Putze at aputze@iasoybeans.com.

United States vs. Brazil: A Comparison POPULATION

U.S.: 326 million Brazil: 210 million LIFE EXPECTANCY

U.S.: 80.3 years Brazil: 74.7 years UNEMPLOYMENT (2019)

U.S.: 3.5% Brazil: 11% GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (2021)

U.S.: $22.7 trillion Brazil: $1.5 trillion AGRICULTURE AREA (pasture)

“There’s clearing of the Cerrado and rain forest happening, but to a lesser extent than what is often reported or perceived.” — Robb Ewoldt, farmer f rom Davenport

U.S.: 17.4% Brazil: 7.8% GRAIN PRODUCTION

U.S.: 430 million metric tons Brazil: 252 million metric tons EXPORTS

U.S.: $1.6 trillion Brazil: $217 billion EXPORTS TO CHINA

U.S.: 18.7% Brazil: 21.8% Brazil exports to U.S.: 12.3%

TAXES

U.S.: 17% of GDP Brazil: 35.7% of GDP RAILWAYS

U.S.: 140,300 miles Brazil: 17,732 miles ROADS

U.S.: 4.08 million miles paved: 2.67 million miles Brazil: 981,766 miles paved: 132,226 miles WATERWAYS ISA President Robb Ewoldt discusses soybean yield, protein and oil numbers with fellow ISA directors and representatives of Morena Farms in Mato Grosso.

U.S.: 25,481 potential miles Brazil: 31,068 potential miles

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 27

Forested land in Mato Grosso is converted to pasture ground and then to row crop production. The transition takes 3-10 years depending on market demand and prices for such staples as sugar cane, corn, soybeans and beef.

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27).

Robb Ewoldt Davenport

The following are insights captured f rom ISA leaders’ conversations and observations.

Tim Bardole

There’s clearing of the Cerrado and rain forest happening, but to a lesser extent than what is often reported or perceived. Most of what’s being converted to row crop production is pasture ground. But when you’re required to leave 35% to as much as 80% of land in permanent conservation depending on your location (the percentage increases the closer you get to the Amazon River), it becomes increasingly cost-prohibitive.”

Rippey

“A big difference between U.S. and Brazilian soybean farmers is the amount of leeway they have in saving seed; my hunch is that they also don’t pay near as much in tech fees as U.S. farmers, which helps lower

Warren Bachman Osceola

their cost of production considerably. One thing we didn’t see was rail. We’re used to crossing railroad tracks in every town; but it’s just absolutely not there in Brazil … at least not yet.

28 | APRIL 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

Brent Swart Spencer

Many of the farms of any size and consequence are new farms – 20, 30, maybe 35 years old. They don’t have bad habits to break. They’re modern, businessminded and focused on growth, sustainability and diversif ication.

Aaron Putze, ISA Sr. Director of Information & Education, was embedded with the ISA farmer delegation during its two-week visit to Brazil. The trek included 12 flights and covered more than 20,000 miles while visiting four Brazilian states.

Kirk Leeds ISA CEO

Long-term, Brazil must reconcile issues in their ag production methods with changes in consumer preferences. Given the tropical climate and soil, Brazilian farmers must use a considerable amount of fertilizer and pesticides. This is occurring as consumers become increasingly concerned about chemical usage in farming and demand ‘clean’ food. Perhaps this is one more reason you’re likely to see

Habus sperei culiace retorae pos hosus con dicae nos ad dit, quons dea moriam et

corn acres increase as it’s an ideal way to break pest and disease cycles.

Corn is planted in Mato Grosso immediately following soybean harvest. Brazil’s tropical climate allows for year-long growing seasons.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 29

Dwight Dial Recognized with Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award BY BROCK JOHNSTON

odern agriculture continues to evolve to meet the needs of a growing population in a sustainable and profitable way. One Iowa soybean farmer is being recognized for his lifelong commitment to ensuring this future for generations to come. Dwight Dial of Lake City was recognized with the Gary Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award recently for his lifelong commitment to agriculture and environmental stewardship. Dial grows soybeans and corn and raises pigs and sheep on his Calhoun County farm. The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award is made possible by the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, an organization supported by the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and other state farm and commodity groups. “Over the past 18 years, we have recognized 160 farm families with this prestigious award that all had one thing in common – the passion to improve animal care, protect the environment and serve their

community,” says Brian Waddingham, executive director of the Coalition. “Dwight is another great example of a livestock farmer who has gone above and beyond in each of these areas.” Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented Dial with the award in front of friends, family and industry leaders from across the state. “Since Dwight started farming in 1978, he has worked to make his operation more sustainable for future generations through the implementation of conservation practices,” Naig says. “Dwight is a great example of someone who takes pride in caring for his pigs and sheep, while recognizing the importance of caring for his land and being involved in his local community, making him a deserving recipient of the award.” As a conservation advocate, Dwight is committed to leaving the land better than he found it, Naig notes. Implementing practices like cover crops, grassed waterways and terraces, and no-till on his soybean

Iowa Secretary Mike Naig presents Dwight with the award.

30 | APRIL 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

and corn fields all demonstrate his passion for protecting and enhancing his soil and water. Hog manure application has also allowed Dial to increase organic matter and sequester carbon. In 2021, he was recognized for his efforts by Iowa’s Front 40, an initiative celebrating the state’s futurethinking conservation leaders at the forefront of sustainable soil and water practices. Land enrollment in the Conservation Reserve Program, Farm to River Partnership, Soil Health Partnership, Conservation Stewardship Program and Environmental Quality Incentives Program has allowed Dwight to better manage the natural resources of his operation. “To say I am honored to be recognized in this way is indescribable,” Dial says. “I’m proud to see the amazing things Iowa farmers continue to do every day and look forward to seeing what’s to come.”

Rural Route 2 Editor’s Note by Bethany Baratta bbaratta@iasoybeans.com

Taking Flight

s I write this, I’m somewhere between Charlotte and New Orleans. My window seat in Row 13 of the American Airlines flight gives me a clear view over the plane’s wing. I’m heading to Commodity Classic, one of the largest commodityspecific tradeshows in the world. The plane’s wing extends into the clouds. I snap pictures for my 4-year-old son, who wants to see what I see, even though he’s back home. Down below me, clouds. Above, blue skies. On this, the first day as editor of the Iowa Soybean Review, it doesn’t escape me that I’m in the clouds — both figuratively and literally. I have the privilege of

stepping into this editor spot, a position Ann Clinton embraced for decades. I’ll miss going back and forth with Ann; her cubicle was within a few feet of mine for the past three years. We bounced story ideas, words of encouragement and headlines off each other. We also traded stories about our families and our farms. But Ann has taken a new flight path, and now, so have I. More than anything, I’m grateful. Grateful to be trusted at the helm of this publication. Grateful to continue learning from you and being a caretaker of your stories. In this issue of the Review, I invite you to dig into some highlights from your checkoff-

supported Soybean Research Information Network, celebrate soy as part of National Soyfoods Month (and beyond!) and hear from farmers about their planting intentions this year. I’d like this space to be a conversation; I want to learn more about you. Is there something you’d like to see in the pages of the Review? I’d love to know what topics are on your mind. Feel free to email me at bbaratta@ iasoybeans.com or call me at 515-334-1020. I wish you well as you take flight into a new growing season. May your soil be fertile to produce abundant crops, and may the rain come where and when it’s needed. Enjoy your flight,

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 31

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Iowa Soybean Review | April 2022

Articles inside

Rural Route 2

Dwight Dial Recognized with Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award

Brazil's Rise in Soy, Corn Production Consequential for Iowa Farmers

Versatility, Ease of Prep Make Soy Shine

Return on Investment

Weather Outlook

Achieving Optimum Soil Fertility

Strive for Uniformity

Grower Perspectives

Five Trends Impacting the Future of the Global Soy Market

Stowe Named Director of U.S. Soybean Research Collaborative

Executive Insights