Iowa Soybean Review | January 2022 by Iowa Soybean Association

IOWA

SOYBEAN January 2022

Family Farming: Ag in the Spotlight

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 1

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Conference Conference

17, 2022 Feb.Feb. 17, 2022 9 a.m. 3 p.m. 9 a.m. toto 3 p.m.

Get thethe inside scoop scoop on Get inside

FFA Enrichment Center

FFA Enrichment Center Ankeny, Iowa 50023 See agenda RSVP at Ankeny, Iowaand50023 iasoybeans.com/prof it44

on emerging markets, results f rom on-farm trials, and learn from on-farm trials, and learn how ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation how ISA’s Research Center drives prof itability through for Farming Innovation increased productivity. drives profitability through increased productivity. emerging markets, results

See agenda and RSVP at www.iasoybeans.com/profit44

Questions? Questions? Contact Kelly Contact Carrie Carrie Kelly 515-229-2893 oror 515-229-2893 ckelly@iasoybeans.com ckelly@iasoybeans.com Powered by the Soybean Checkoff. Powered by the Soybean Checkoff.

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

January 2022 | Vol. 34, No. 4

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: aclinton@iasoybeans.com For advertising information in the Iowa Soybean Review, please contact Ann Clinton at (515) 334-1026 or aclinton@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 Crops and Clicks

Mann family bonded by farming, YouTube channel.

Buried Treasure ISA helps unlock the benef its of oxbows.

Testing the Waters ISA water lab provides data to help improve water quality.

Fast Five

Tips to improve winter biodiesel performance.

On the Cover: Brothers Decker, Derek and Devan Mann shoot video content for their YouTube channel, which features the family’s farm near Marshalltown.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 3

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

Are You Prepared to Innovate?

e observe two New Year’s celebrations at the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA). The first is Oct. 1, when we start a new fiscal year. The second comes on Jan. 1. I like them both. They’re a reminder that time marches on, challenges and opportunities are constantly in flux, and you must continually innovate to be relevant. Innovation comes in two forms: tangible and intangible. New seed, software, equipment, traits and technology are tangible examples of innovation. Backed by well-placed marketing and public relations campaigns, these tangible manifestations of innovation often make the boldest headlines. But there’s another kind of innovation, and it’s driven by the intangibles. Examples include a positive attitude, forward-thinking perspective and a leadership mindset that’s never satisfied with the status quo. Leaders who assess and anticipate change, position their association, organization, product or business to make the most of it. Innovation is the heartbeat

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of ISA. In partnership with our colleagues in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Missouri, ISA farmer leaders and staff have engaged with Aimpoint Research. The task: to think critically about ways the industry must evolve to be relevant to farmers in 2040. Four strategic imperatives have emerged. We must: • Lead disruption from within.

The soybean industry must operate from a position of strength and make our future, not be bystanders impacted by it. • Explore new business models and partnerships.

Past adversaries may become partners critical to developing new markets. • Embrace new research and technologies that challenge us. ISA has long championed the

importance of “going where the data leads.” Following through on this pledge as an industry united is critical. • Define our value proposition with farmers in the driver’s seat. One of the clear takeaways

from our work with Aimpoint

is how many initiatives poised to influence the industry don’t directly involve farmers. This must change! Farmers should never underestimate their influence. They must be active participants in all facets of the soybean value chain. ISA offers numerous ways to engage strategically, from being an Experience Class participant to conducting production and conservation trials on your farm with the help of our Research Center for Farming Innovation. No one knows what this year will hold. But it’s a good bet issues impacting the industry will continue evolving at warp speed. For soybean farmers and the industry to prosper, we must outflank the pace of change and, as hockey great Wayne Gretzky famously said, “Skate to where the puck is going.” Doing so will require the intangibles of innovation. I value your perspectives and ideas on these matters. Share them with me at kleeds@iasoybeans.com.

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IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 5

Iowa farmland values jumped 29% in 2021, boosted by commodity prices, favorable interest rates and government ad-hoc payments.

Iowa farmland values skyrocket 29% in 2021 BY BETHANY BARATTA

trong crop yields, higher crop and livestock prices, favorable interest rates, robust federal payments and limited land supply supported a lift in Iowa land values by 29% over 2020 values. Results from Iowa State University’s Land Value Survey, issued recently by ISU’s Center for Agricultural and Rural Development, show the average value of an acre of Iowa farmland rose 29% over the past year to $9,751 per acre as of Nov. 1, 2021. All nine crop reporting districts in the state showed an increase in farmland values. The nominal value of an acre of farmland is now higher than at any point since Iowa State University began surveying values in 1941, says Wendong Zhang, Iowa State University assistant professor of economics and ISU Extension economist. Values are 12% higher than the previous peak in 2013; although the current value in inflation-adjusted terms are still lower than 2012 and 2013. “This year has been remarkable in the sense that after land values have been stagnant for a few years, we see a dramatic increase over the past 12 months,” Zhang says.

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The 2021 survey results are based on 645 county-level value estimates provided by 455 agricultural professionals, mostly ag lenders and broker/realtors. Started in 1941, the survey is the only one that provides estimates for all of Iowa’s 99 counties. The survey has been conducted by the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development in the Department of Economics at Iowa State University and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach since 2014.

Cautiously optimistic Despite the positive factors leading to the increase in Iowa land values, Zhang says respondents had some reservations. “They’re increasingly concerned about higher input costs, the sustainability of high land prices, possible changes in interest rates and political uncertainty regarding policies, such as possible tax law changes, which were all cited as negative factors influencing the land market,” Zhang says. Survey respondents are very optimistic about the strength of the

future land market. Eighty percent of those surveyed predicted a continued increase in land values. The groups used the following formula to determine the change in value of each county: land value=localized net income ÷ universal interest rate. The largest percentage increases were in the North Central and West Central Districts, at 34.5% and 33.1%, respectively. The Southwest and Southeast Districts, which saw the smallest percentage changes, reported an increase of more than 20%. High quality land across all districts saw stronger land value increases compared to mediumand low-quality land, Zhang says, noting competitive bidding in highquality land due to low availability. The highest value was estimated for Scott County at $13,852 per acre. This was driven by its location in relation to the Quad Cities and proximity to Mississippi River and associated markets, Zhang says. The lowest value was in Decatur County, at $5,062 per acre.

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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® | 7

Activate or Validate 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 — validate your membership today at iasoybeans.com/join

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HELPING YOU DELIVER ON DEMAND

Whether it’s improving soybean meal to outperform the competition or promoting the sustainability of U.S. soy, the soy checkoff has been working behind the scenes to help farmers satisfy their customers’ needs. We’re looking inside the bean, beyond the bushel and around the world to keep preference for U.S. soy strong. And for U.S. soybean farmers like you, the impact is invaluable. See more ways the soy checkoff is maximizing profit opportunities for farmers at unitedsoybean.org

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 9

( 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.

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WISHH connects trade and development across global market systems, improves food security, and brings the power of strategic partnerships to our unique market-systems approach.

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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® | 11

Crops and Clicks Mann Family Bonded by Farming, YouTube Channel BY BETHANY BARATTA

lay videos from Mann Family Farms on YouTube and you’ll see planting, harvesting and the everyday workings on a near Century farm. Whether it’s changing tires on tractors, hauling corn to the local processor, planting cover crops or reimagining a grain bin site after a devastating derecho, the fourth generation of Mann farmers explain how they run their central Iowa farm. The YouTube channel, Mann Family Farms, started from a chance meeting at a gym in Ames between then-Iowa State University students Decker Mann, the “Mann behind the camera,” and Grant Hilbert, a popular YouTube personality-turned first-generation farmer. Decker was

Brothers Decker, Derek and Devan Mann shoot video content for their YouTube channel, which features the family’s farm near Marshalltown. 12 | JANUARY 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

familiar with Grant’s YouTube channel and aspired to create one of his own. By luck, the two continued to run into each other at the gym, where they shared farming stories and filming tips in between workouts. “Grant was just starting to farm, so he would ask me real questions about farming stuff,” Decker recalls. Conversations then turned into advice for creating Decker’s own YouTube presence. Decker expressed his hesitations. He wasn’t comfortable in front of the camera, had limited experience editing videos, and wasn’t even sure who the audience would be. “Grant told me, ‘Just start.’” Decker hit upload on the family’s

first video on March 14, 2021. Since then, they’ve garnered new subscribers and viewers from around the globe. Brothers Devan and Derek are also featured in the family’s videos with their father Duane. Uncle Glen, his son Bennett and their employee Helio have also made a cameo appearance on the channel. Since March 2021, Decker’s graduated from Iowa State with a degree in agricultural business. He’s returned to his roots, farming full time with his family and hitting record on his cell phone and his Canon Power Shot camera more often to share the ins and outs of life on the Mann farm.

A SI T-DOWN WI TH THE

Mann family Cast: Decker, Derek, Devan, Duane ABOUT MANN FAMILY FARMS Established in 1924; grow soybeans, corn, seed soybeans, seed corn and hay near Marshalltown.

The Mann family constructed this new bin site following the devastating derecho that struck Aug. 10 of 2020.

WHAT ARE YOUR MOST POPULAR POSTS? “50,000 people have watched the video that showed the carnage which resulted from the Aug. 10, 2020, derecho. I explain the old bin site and our plans to build new bins the new

Video diary The videos are a diary of sorts for the multi-generation farm. YouTube uploads have replaced the 8x11-inch sheets of paper Duane once used to record the latest happenings on the farm and other notable neighborhood events. “Educating the public about what’s going on in agriculture isn’t something I was thinking about when I started,” Decker says. “I started because I thought it was fun to do.” But it’s progressed into a conversation piece as viewers comment on the videos and strike up a connection and dialogue with the Mann family. “People are eager to learn more,” says Derek, a fulltime employee at Van Wall in Marshalltown. He graduated from the John Deere Tech program in Calmar and is the mechanic of the bunch. You’ll also see him hauling corn and washing semis in the videos. At Mann Family Farms, it’s all hands on deck to get the jobs done. Devan, sometimes referred to as “Mustard” in the videos, also returned to the farm after

graduating from Iowa State. He’s putting his agronomy degree to use on the farm managing the new grain loading/unloading site the family put up following the 2020 derecho. He also stars in videos explaining how seed corn and seed soybeans are raised and harvested. Duane says the family has always embraced technology, so hitting “record” while they’re all completing their day-to-day tasks doesn’t faze him. It’s a trait likely inherited from his late father Donald, who, at 74 years old, embraced GPS and auto steer. “Everybody says Grandpa was progressive,” Decker says. Don bought a brand new International straight truck in 1977, the first diesel straight truck he bought. Duane, or “Honey Badger,” as he’s sometimes referred to in the videos, thinks his dad would have gotten a kick out of seeing the men work together farming and YouTubing. “He would have loved this,” he says. Learn more about the family and their farm by searching “Mann Family Farms” on YouTube.

site, named Area 21, because we broke

Contact Bethany Baratta at bbaratta@iasoybeans.com.

start, but you have to start to be great.’

ground in a new area in 2021, and it has a nice tone to it,” Decker says. “Cutting beans with old technology,” viewed by more than 30,000, shows the family using a row crop bean head to harvest soybeans. “It’s mesmerizing watching the beans flow right into the header,” Decker says.

WHO IS WATCHING? • 9,300 YouTube subscribers • 95% of viewers are male, 5% female • 77% of views come from the U.S., but views are logged worldwide.

WHY DOES THE CHECKOFF MATTER TO YOUR FARM? “Finding new markets ultimately leads to more competition within the markets we already have; more competition drives prices and better margins,” Decker says. “On-farm research trials help figure out how to manage pests and diseases, leading to greater yield potential. With more yield comes more bushels to sell and with that comes more money and more profit per acre.”

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR FARMERS WANTING TO START THEIR OWN YOUTUBE CHANNEL? “My cousin Blake’s advice quotes Zig Ziglar, ‘You don’t have to be great to Simply, just start.” IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 13

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Conference Conference

BY KRISS NELSON

n-farm research results that of America, will offer an in-depth Iowa soybean farmers to be the most support a systems approach to preview of the economics of growing a profitable, productive and sustainable improved production, soil health and soybean crop in 2022. suppliersscoop of soybeans Get the inside onfor current and water management for a profitable “By attending the conference, emerging domestic and global markets. emerging markets, results farming operation will be featured at guests will see a wide variety of our “The Think Tank will give insight rom on-farm trials, and learn the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) programs,” says Ed Anderson,fsenior into where the soybean industry is Innovation to ProfitFFA conference on director of research at ISA. going,” says Anderson. “What should Enrichment Center how ISA’s Research Center Feb. 17 at the FFA Enrichment Center Programs include in-field and edgesoybean farmers be thinking about, Ankeny, Iowa 50023 for Farming Innovation in Ankeny. of-field on-farm research that help evaluating and implementing in the through See will agenda Breakout sessions feature and RSVP farmers at in their own fields. drives prof nextitability five to 20 years? What is the a wide variety ofiasoybeans.com/prof topics, including “They are able to evaluate various value chain going to look like? How increased productivity. it44 nitrogen source timing and products and practices that holistically can they proactively respond to the management. Attendees will also address agronomics and conservation future needs of society and positively learn about ISA’s Research Center for opportunities,” says Anderson. influence their farming operations and Farming Innovation (RCFI) trials and Attendees will also have the the soybean industry?” have an opportunity to participate in chance to participate in an RCFI The conference will also dive an interactive economics game with Think Tank. This session will provide deeper into new and emerging Questions? RCFI staff. forward-looking discussions of how markets, providing information to Matt Erickson, ag economic and RCFI research, communications and farmers on what they need to know Contact Kelly Contact Carrie Carrie Kelly policy advisor for Farm Credit Services outreach can proactively support before the next growing season.

17, 2022 Feb.Feb. 17, 2022 9 a.m. 3 p.m. 9 a.m. toto 3 p.m.

FFA Enrichment Center Ankeny, Iowa 50023

See agenda and RSVP at www.iasoybeans.com/profit44

Get the inside scoop on emerging markets, results from on-farm trials, and learn how ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation drives profitability through increased productivity.

Questions?

515-229-2893 oror 515-229-2893 ckelly@iasoybeans.com ckelly@iasoybeans.com

14 | JANUARY 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

The full-day event is an opportunity to view soybean checkoff dollars at work, says ISA President Robb Ewoldt, a farmer near Davenport. Results and information that will be brought to farmers at the conference are programs and research the farmer board members said ISA should invest in, notes Ewoldt. This grassroots approach has served ISA members for decades and continues to drive ISA research priorities today. “The programs and research results are important to the farmers who are on the board, so it is most likely just as important to other farmers in Iowa. Our checkoff dollars are being used to help us be more profitable,” Ewoldt says.

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farmers make everyday decisions. “We try to integrate data so farmers get more than they would get by just working with someone whose only focus is on agronomy or conservation,” says Anderson. “Conference attendees can expect to receive unbiased, science-based and credible information without anyone trying to sell them anything.”

Research Advisory Council or ISA board.” These participant opportunities are intended to bring value to the farmer – not to be time-consuming or costly. “Our research trials and technical assistance programs are geared toward advancing farming operations, where efforts are outweighed by the benefits returned,” says Anderson.

I N N O VAT I O to

Bringing data to farmer There is tremendous value in ISA’s information and decision tools using data collected from on-farm research, university and company collaborations. Predictive models, decision tools and the technical assistance ISA’s staff provide help

PROFIT Engaging producers

Farmers can expect to engage directly with ISA staff at the conference, gaining insights from those conducting the research trials, developing marketing opportunities for Iowa soybean farmers, and ultimately focusing on improving the productivity and profitability of Iowa’s farmers. Data, information and tools can be found on ISA’s website and farmers are encouraged to talk with ISA staff. “Greater engagement involves active participation in our on-farm research trials and conservation programs,” says Anderson. “Farmers can even become members of our

Something for everyone

Although geared toward soybean farmers, the Innovation to Profit conference will benefit those wanting to learn more about the soybean industry or agriculture, markets, demand and the broader work done on farmers’ behalf by the ISA. “I know that farmers have a lot of meeting opportunities to consider during the winter months. They have to prioritize what meetings to go to, but we are all interested in profitability, and it’s in the title,” says Ewoldt.

Confere

Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com.

Get the inside scoop on Feb. 17, 2022 Get the inside sco emerging markets, results Feb. 17, 2022 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. f rom on-farm trials, and learn emerging market

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. how ISA’s Research Center

FFA Enrichment Center Ankeny, Iowa 50023

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for Farming Innovation FFA Enrichment Center how ISA’s Researc drives prof itability through See agenda and RSVP at Ankeny, Iowa 50023 increased productivity. iasoybeans.com/prof it44 for Farming Innov

See agenda and RSVP at www.iasoybeans.com/profit44

drives profitability increased produc

Questions? Questions? Contact Kelly Contact Carrie Carrie Kelly 515-229-2893 oror 515-229-2893 ckelly@iasoybeans.com ckelly@iasoybeans.com Powered by the Soybean Checkoff.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 15

Buried Treasure ISA unlocks the benefits of oxbows BY JOSEPH HOPPER

he Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) is helping farmer members dig for treasure. The ultimate reward may not be a chest of gold but instead a way to mitigate flooding, prevent nitrates from entering waterways and provide a home to endangered wildlife like the Topeka Shiner. The “X” marks the spot on former oxbows — the winding, meandering, disconnected pools adjacent a stream that over time become filled with sediment. ISA recently partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), to restore seven oxbows located in Greene and Carroll Counties. “Usually, we don’t pair them

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like this; it is kind of an unusual project,” says Brandon Iddings, ISA field services program manager for conservation resources. “Three are less than a mile apart in Greene County; the remaining four in Carroll County are a half-mile apart.” David Ausberger, an ISA member from Greene County who is participating in the restoration effort, says there’s no downside to revitalizing the important habitats. In addition to providing habitat for the Topeka Shiner minnow, the Greene County farmer hoped his restored oxbows would also serve as an essential locale for blue heron, deer and other wildlife.

Brandon Iddings, ISA f ield services program manager for conservation resources, helps connect farmers with the resources to restore oxbows on their land.

Oxbow restoration is something ISA farmer member Bob Ausberger knows f irsthand.

Ausberger says “It was an easy decision to make with private funding through ISA and cooperation with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). I didn’t have to lift a finger,” he says. “I think it’s going to be good for wildlife, and it’s another arrow in my quiver when people say that farmers are just out here mining the land. We’re not,” he says.

Getting started For organizations interested in restoring oxbows, Iddings and USFWS Biologist Darrick Weissenfluh collaborated with the Nature Conservancy to create a 29-page Oxbow Restoration Toolkit now available at nature.org. Iddings says funding is earmarked for more than a dozen oxbows in the Raccoon and Boone River Watersheds. “Those are our priority areas because the Topeka Shiner is focused in those areas,” Iddings says. Landowners not in the priority watersheds can get in touch with NRCS and the Iowa Department of

Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS). With a project identified, designed and construction beginning, there are only a few steps to getting an oxbow back in working order. Around four layers of black dirt are removed from the top, often finding a new home in the farmer’s fields. With the black dirt removed, clay and gravel material remains, which is often used to fill washouts. The bottom layer filling in an oxbow is usually old gravel and rocks. “Once you get to that old stream bed, usually some water starts leaking in,” says Iddings.

For the future When the seven oxbows are restored, Iddings hopes to increase awareness with farmers and the public due to their visibility near major roadways. He’s planning to

host oxbow field days in the future, both aimed at targeted watersheds and for would-be oxbow restorers at-large. “There are so many benefits,” Iddings says. “It’s great for wildlife and really good at nitrate reduction if you have tile flowing into them. When the floodwaters rise, 42% of the nitrates that go into that oxbow will be removed.” Ausberger has watched the progress on his oxbows and says it’s quite a bit different than when his father took on a solo restoration more than a decade ago. “The contractor we found made it look a lot easier than my dad did with his old end loader,” Ausberger says. “These guys just knock it right out. It’s going to look good for years to come.” Contact Joseph at jhopper@iasoybeans.com.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 17

Craig Fleishman, ISA farmer-member in Minburn, relies on the Iowa Soybean Association to monitor water quality leaving his farm.

Testing the Waters ISA water lab provides data to help improve water quality BY KRISS NELSON

he Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) water lab will soon complete its 11th year of water monitoring. The facility is a unique asset, connecting directly with the work of the Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI). “We are in the business of helping our farmers be productive, profitable and sustainable,” says Roger Wolf, RCFI director. “We work to bring data and research results to the table, and this information gives a certain amount of credibility to our work.” Located on-site at ISA, staff at the water lab first began testing water samples in 2011. Previously, water sample analysis was done in partnership with the Des Moines Water Works lab. During that time, monitoring was done on stream samples, and tile sampling started once ISA had its own lab. “The water lab gives us the capacity to commit to water monitoring by having it on-site compared to having to work with a private lab or a third party,” says Tony Seeman, senior field services lab

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and data manager at ISA. “We work with projects to help farmers use data to know where to target resources to treat the highest levels.”

Water testing The ISA water lab will test thousands of samples each year. The accredited lab is certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to analyze E. coli bacteria, nitrates, nitrites and fluoride under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Ion chromatography is used to test common nutrients including nitrates, nitrites and phosphate as well as fluoride, chloride and sulfate. Other tests conducted in the lab include turbidity (a measure of water

clarity), total phosphorus, alkalinity and hardness, and ammonia nitrogen. In 2021, the lab analyzed more than 4,100 individual samples as part of 20 different projects. Dry weather conditions prevented the collection and analysis of an additional 1,300 scheduled samples. Projects ranged from the traditional Agriculture’s Clean Water Alliance (ACWA) tributary sampling of the Raccoon and Boone Rivers to supporting multiple Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) Water Quality Initiative demonstration projects. New projects for 2021 included a series of sampling events throughout Lyon County with the local Soil and Water Conservation District and providing sample analysis to support the Soil and Water Outcomes Fund verification efforts.

The data has been compiled and reports will be generated for the projects. They will be sent to more than 150 participating farmers, detailing the data and comparing results to other sites statewide. Craig Fleishman, an ISA farmermember from Minburn, has been participating in water monitoring for several years. He’s grateful ISA has taken the initiative to be proactive about water quality. “As a farmer, I am interested in seeing what the tile lines are carrying and where it ends up,” Fleishman says. Fleishman says results from his water samples reinforce why he uses conservation systems on his farm. He gathers samples from tile lines, creeks and rivers every two weeks and encourages others to do the same. “If anyone is interested, they should try it,” he says. “Every producer has some creek or tile line to test. It’s easy to do.” Water monitoring plays a significant role in achieving goals set by the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy.

“We need a 45% reduction of nitrates from every acre in Iowa,” Seeman says. “You need to know where you are at to determine next steps in achieving the 45% reduction per acre.”

Results of water monitoring Water monitoring allows farmers to better understand the conditions in streams and water leaving the farm property, whether via surface flow or tile water. This often leads to more questions about what can be done to protect or improve water quality. Monitoring several locations over many years enables RCFI to focus programs and topics specific to issues that are present. Wolf says many watershed projects receive additional funding support to address specific concerns local farmers are trying to remedy. Having monitoring capabilities creates opportunities to validate actual changes in water quality derived from the performance of using management techniques, products and practices.

Looking ahead Like soil testing, farmers value having water quality data, and ISA intends to keep supplying the information. Wolf says the long-term vision for the laboratory is to continue embedding monitoring as part of our comprehensive research at RCFI. “Monitoring helps farmers and partners focus programming and validate the performance of in-field and edge-of-field strategies,” he says. It gives farmers confidence their practices are performing, which drives continuous improvement for the sustainable production of soybeans.” Increased demand for these services could lead to an expansion of the ISA water lab. “Over the next 10 years, we hope to find ways to lower the cost and speed up access to actionable information to help farmers make informed decisions accurately and faster,” Wolf says. “New sensors, expanded analytics and data decision tools are likely.” Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 19

Soil and Water Health Early adopter continues adapting to boost production BY AARON PUTZE, APR

arming isn’t work for Chuck White. Rather, the Spencer farmer sees the land he farms as a work in progress. “I’ve always been an early adopter,” he says while surveying a 30-acre stand of cover crop on land he farms with his brother Kevin and son Patrick south of Spencer. “I’m a fan of trying new things and seeing the improvements that come with innovating.” Spend a few minutes in his company and it becomes obvious the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) district director’s wheels are constantly turning. It’s why he’s a believer and active participant in ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI). “I like to look at new ideas and develop new ways of doing things for agriculture,” White says. “Producing a crop using fewer inputs is good for my bottom line and goes hand-in-hand with better soil and cleaner water.” His first activity involving the ISA research team was a 2010 soybean plant population trial.

“It yielded numerous findings, chief among them — higher populations and seed costs don’t always translate to more yield,” White says.

New adventure He’s also worked side-by-side with ISA’s research team on nitrogen trials involving manure application on corn ground. His newest adventure: choosing Dutch clover instead of cereal rye as a cover crop. “I’ve always wanted to plant a perennial as a cover crop,” he says. “One day, while walking across the farm, I noticed the Dutch clover. It grows everywhere and with little effort, so I thought, ‘Why not try it as a cover?’” After consulting with ISA researchers and Iowa State University agronomists, White was motivated to give it a try. Last spring, he seeded Dutch clover with a

drill on 30 acres of ground planted to soybeans. What also sets White apart is his unabashed willingness to fail. “I didn’t have much of a soybean crop come June — in fact, I about tilled the whole thing under and started over,” he admits. A combination of too much cover crop and a wet start to the growing season was taking its toll on his soybeans and potential return on investment come harvest. But White played the patience card. The weather soon turned, the beans matured, and harvest came and went. “The field yielded about 40 bushels per acre,” White says. “It usually does mid-50s. But I’m it for the long haul, looking to building soil health, reducing fertilizer costs and seeing what next year’s corn crop yields.”

Chuck White, farmer f rom Spencer

20 | JANUARY 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

White is so confident in his approach that he seeded an additional 15 acres to Dutch clover this fall. The 45 acres will be strip-tilled and planted to corn next spring. He’ll apply herbicide with a row bander, so it won’t impact the clover. “Most farmers like to broadcast because the bander takes more time,” he says. “But for smaller farmers who have some additional time, it could prove to be a very good system.”

White’s using Dutch clover as a cover crop to: • Forgo establishing a new cover crop annually. • Improve weed control. • Reduce herbicide use and expense. • Sequester nutrients more effectively. • Generate nitrogen for next year’s corn crop. White’s hopeful the Dutch clover will provide most of the nitrogen needed. If not, he’ll supplement with chicken litter and Y-drop nitrogen directly into the row during next year’s growing season. • Prevent the establishment of white mold.

Using less nitrogen is appealing as retail prices double and triple from a year ago due to a stressed supply chain. “You might still get product, but it’s a lot more expensive,” White says. “So, the combination of better yields and lower production costs as a result of planting a cover crop is very appealing.”

Farmer agronomist White encourages farmers to pull soil samples to determine the agronomic needs of a field and inputs needed to produce a profitable crop. He pulls 15 samples per 10 acres with an eye on residual nitrogen.

“You have to be an agronomist to be a farmer,” White says. “Get in your fields and take the time to know what’s there so you can add what’s needed and not spend money you don’t have to.” It’s this hands-on approach that underscores the value of the RCFI. The ISA research team is there to lend a hand, and they’re among the best in the business, says White. “Make your soybean checkoff investment work by having it go to work on your farm.” White, who founded Agriland Farm Management and Realty in 1998, says early winter is the time of year to make the most of the next growing season. “An entire year of profitability can revolve around getting the right advice and information at the right time,” he says. Engaging with ISA’s RCFI pays huge, especially for farmers who want to maximize inputs, productivity, stewardship and their creative juices. “ISA’s researchers are always meeting more than halfway with ideas and creative approaches,” he says.“They ask the questions. They have an entrepreneurial spirit. They believe that better soil and water stewardship doesn’t come at the expense of yield, but in partnership with it.” The serial entrepreneur also relishes keeping up with the times with the help of ISA. “When new technology comes along, I want to be part of it. It’s about continually improving operations by tying together production, environment and economics. ISA’s RCFI is driven to deliver that and more,” White adds. For information on the Dutch clover cover crop project, contact White at white@ncn.net or Scott Nelson, RCFI sr. field services program manager at snelson@iasoybeans.com.

G E T T O K N OW

Chuck White

Began working with the ISA research team in 2010. Elected to ISA board in 2014. Founder, Agriland Farm Management and Real Estate, Spencer. Elected to the Clay County Fair board in 2008. Big believer in cover crops and innovating inand edge-of-field practices to boost production and soil and water quality Has worked with ISA RCFI on soil testing, cover crops, nitrogen

“This Dutch clover is kind of an innovative idea, but that’s what farmers do. We thrive on learning opportunities. Sometimes you just need to look for them.”

management, grid sampling and soil fertility. Has no-tilled for 20 years.

— Chuck White, farmer f rom Spencer IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 21

Not Just a Fad Sharing soy’s sustainability story BY KRISS NELSON

ustomers have increasing expectations that the products they purchase contain sustainable ingredients. Though it seems new, the conversation about sustainability and sourcing sustainable soy started in Europe nearly 10 years ago. Farmers have focused on it for generations, but not necessarily under the buzzword of “sustainability,” according to Abby Rinne, director of sustainability for the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC). “Customers are looking to verify the soy they are purchasing is raised responsibly from an environmental, social and economic perspective,” Rinne says. Recognizing the need to have a formalized response to ensure the

sustainability of soy, the U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP) was developed through a multistakeholder process with participants throughout the value chain. SSAP looks at the U.S. production in aggregate and includes third-party audits by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Sustainable farming practices, such as cover crops, no-till and saturated buffer strips, allow farmers to use less water, prevent soil erosion and decrease energy use. This means U.S. soy farmers are doing more with less to meet the world’s growing demand for food.

Four directives of the SSAP The U.S. Sustainability Assurance

Protocol describes the regulations, processes and management practices that ensure sustainable soybean production.

1 // Biodiversity and High

Carbon Stock: The regulatory obligations to enhance biodiversity and maintain wetlands, grasslands and forests.

2 // Production Practices: Includes practices that enhance the environment and protect our natural resources while increasing production efficiency.

3 // Public and Labor Health

and Welfare: Regulations and laws providing for the protection of the public and workers.

“Customers are looking to verify the soy they are purchasing is raised responsibly from an environmental, social and economic perspective.” — Abby Rinne, director of sustainability for USSEC

22 | JANUARY 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

4 // Continuous Improvement: Practices and programs that farmers participate in to be more efficient and environmentally sound. In 2014, key U.S. soy organizations adopted four goals to achieve by 2025 as part of U.S. soybean farmers’ commitment to continuous improvement. They include reducing land-use impact by 10%, reducing soil erosion by 25%, increasing energy use efficiency by 10% and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 10%. The SSAP has been successful; nearly 40% of U.S. soybean exports with achieving an SSAP certification. SSAP shipments have grown steadily since its development in 2014. In the first year, 6,845 metric tons of soybeans were shipped with an SSAP certificate. In the last marketing year, which ended on Aug. 31, 2021, more than 28.4 million metric tons of U.S. soy were shipped with an SSAP certificate. Rinne expects the number of soybean exports achieving the SSAP certification to grow. “International customers are requiring the soy they are purchasing to be verified as sustainable,” says Rinne. “Various groups have accepted the SSAP around the world as a means of verifying sustainability.” For example, SSAP has been positively benchmarked against the European

Feed Manufacturer’s Federation 2021 Soy Sourcing Guidelines. It was also recognized by the Tokyo Olympic Procurement Committee for the 2021 Olympics and is included in the Global Seafood Alliance Best Aquaculture Practices. Companies sourcing U.S. soy with SSAP verification can use a trademarked “Sustainable U.S. Soy” logo on their packaging. The emblem allows companies to highlight their dedication to purchasing sustainable soy. More than 35 international companies use the logo on more than 850 products. The products include items such as natto in Japan, soymilk in Taiwan and feed in the Dominican Republic.

Firsthand look A USSEC trade team from Central and South America saw Iowa farmers’ commitment to producing soy sustainably during a visit in November. “It’s important to build relationships with all our major buyers of soybeans and soybean meal to help them better understand what is going on in the marketplace,” says Grant Kimberley, sr. director of market development at the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA). The 23 members of the trade team representing Mexico, Ecuador, Panama, Guatemala and Colombia were interested in learning about the U.S. soybean industry’s sustainability practices as part of the SSAP.

“An important tenant of sustainability is continuous improvement,” says Heath Ellison, senior field services program manager at ISA. “While Iowa farmers are some of the most sustainable in the world, we certainly recognize there are always opportunities to improve.” ISA staff engaged with the trade team during its visit to ISA. The team learned about the programs and research conducted in cooperation with farmers and other sustainability partners. Chris Hay, senior research scientist at ISA, says ISA’s efforts are helping farmers apply conservation practices, which can help maintain crop production while addressing water quality challenges. “There is a move toward being able to show how soybeans are sustainably produced,” says Hay. “It is important we continue to develop and implement practices that can improve downstream water quality while sustainably producing the crop.” Kimberley is looking forward to more visits with soy customers in the future. “We want to build overall demand, but we are also working on building customer preference for U.S. soybeans and soybean products to the point they are keeping the U.S. as the first option when they buy soy products,” he says. Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 23

Fast Five Five tips to improve winter biodiesel performance BY BETHANY BARATTA

Dave Walton fuels up before doing chores on his farm near Wilton.

ave Walton relies on biodiesel to power his tractors and machinery year-round. The farmer from Wilton likes biodiesel because of its dependability and increased lubricity. It’s also a homegrown product, made primarily from soybeans like those grown on his eastern Iowa farm. About 80% of the biodiesel produced in Iowa contains soybean oil as a main ingredient. Half of the biodiesel made in the U.S. also

24 | JANUARY 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

depends on soybean oil as a main feedstock in its production. Because of this, biodiesel adds 13% to the value of a bushel of soybeans, more than $1 per bushel in today’s market. In addition to adding value, Walton also appreciates that it’s cleaner burning compared to diesel. Like all other fuel uses in the winter, general fuel and tank maintenance are important to using biodiesel blends effectively. “The key is making sure the fuel

is clean coming out of the tank,” says Walton, board treasurer for the Iowa Soybean Association and member of the Iowa Biodiesel and National Biodiesel Boards. Filters and traps help ensure cleaner fuel, which improves operability. Walton has seen high performance using biodiesel all year-round; it’s also the reason the City of New York relies on biodiesel blends, including when temps take a double-digit drop below zero.

Lisa Pedderson, operations manager for Minnesota-based fuel consul ting company MEG Corp, provides f ive tips for successfully using biodiesel in the winter.

Know Your Fuel

Fuel performance in cold weather can vary based on the crude oil source and how it’s been refined. All diesel fuels contain wax. It will undergo changes, below a specific temperature such as crystallization, gelling or viscosity increase. These changes can reduce the ability of the fuel to flow and create filter plugging concerns, adversely affecting the operability of vehicles. Two cold-flow measurements are critical: cloud point (CP) and cold filter plugging point (CFPP). CP is the temperature at which wax crystals first appear in the fuel, making it appear cloudy or hazy. CFPP is the temperature at which larger wax crystals form and start to plug the fuel filter. The target CFPP should be a temperature below the expected winter low temperatures for best performance. Ask your fuel supplier for help testing your fuel.

Use Winter Fuel Additives

Regardless of the fuel you use, it’s important to winterize fuel to withstand expected low temperatures in your area. Wax anti-settling agents prevent wax crystals from attaching to each other and forming larger wax crystals, keeping them suspended in the fuel to prevent them from collecting at the bottom of the tank and plugging filters. Work with your fuel supplier to determine additive needs. Make winter fuel preparation a part of routine machinery and equipment checks in the fall to ensure timely maintenance.

Water is the Enemy

Top off tanks to eliminate air space that could foster condensation when temperatures change. Keep fuel caps tight to keep water from entering the tank. Inspect hoses and gaskets for leaks.

Check Your Fil ters

Install a new 30-micron or higher dispenser filter before winter. Dirty filters further slow the increased viscosity of the fuel in cold weather. Water is the most common source of fuel filter plugging issues in diesel engines during winter. When temperatures fall below 32 degrees F, excess water in the tank can freeze on the filter and block fuel flow through the filter.

Reach Out for Help

The Regional Diesel Helpline exists to assist diesel users with diesel- and biodiesel-related questions. If you have questions, encounter a fuel-related problem or need help troubleshooting the cause of filter plugging, call the helpline at 800-929-3437 or email info@megcorpmn. com. Retain fuel and filter samples to send in for a diagnosis. The helpline will also provide oversight testing, such as biodiesel content and cold flow operability (cloud point and cold filter plugging point) for Iowa farmers at no charge.

Contact Bethany Baratta at bbaratta@iasoybeans.com.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 25

Letters to the Editor

A few stories f rom readers about their auger tractors as inspired by the November 2021 column.

This is a 1968 1130 Massey on a 13x84 auger. Reliable, simple, and easy to hit controls from the ground. What is sad is that it’s still about $38K just to move grain.

— Randy Bush, Marcus

I bought this tractor used in 1976 and it has carried out many jobs on our farm over the years. Early on it pulled our 8-row planter, 42-foot sprayer, rotary hoe, and stalk chopper. As equipment grew over the years this 1960 4010JD still worked hard as it powered our grinder mixer feeding over 3000 head of hogs per year and moving the manure to fields pulling the manure spreader. It pulled our bailer and raked the crop ahead of it. This tractor never saw a cab but had a heat houser installed every winter and tire chains if needed. Today this 4010 still plays an important role on this farm. In addition to powering this grain auger we use it on our rotary cutter, a three-point seeder to seed our CRP and waterways, a three-point forklift and three point blade used to grade our yard and driveways. What makes this tractor so desirable on this farm is its versatility. There are still multiple jobs waiting for this 61-year-old workhorse by John Deere every season.

— Wayne Fredericks, Osage

My auger tractor is a 770 Oliver tracker and it was built in 1964. I worked at Oliver from 1963 through 1966. I was the tractor driver. I got the tractors and brought them in to ship to the dealers. I have enclosed a copy of my pay stub from 1964. The $7.35 deduction was for a brand new pair of steel-toed safety boots. During the time I worked, we built on average 100 tractors a day. I drove this tractor new in the factory and is now one of my Oliver collections. It has been restored.

— Tom Mitchell, Hawkeye

26 | JANUARY 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM

The Last Word Editor’s Note by Ann Clinton aclinton@iasoybeans.com

Birds of a Feather

don’t have a dishwasher in our farmhouse. I spend hours at the kitchen sink, hand-washing all of the things used in cooking and serving meals for four children and a husband. We have almost every other modern convenience in our home, but that particular appliance just hasn’t been enough of a priority for us to invest in yet. We will. But for now, I treasure the time I’m forced to slow down. Standing at the sink, systematically working through the stack of dishes, has become a sacred time for me to think. There’s a window above the sink and a tree outside the window. We’ve put a host of bird feeders in the branches of the tree. The kids even painted birdhouses, and my husband hung them up. The houses instantly became homes. Just like that, I became a bird person.

Truthfully, I don’t know much about birds, but I’m learning. I’ve gotten to know some of them by their personalities and habits. I’m always happy when a new species shows up to make its introduction. (With the amount of money we’ve spent on bird feed, we could have afforded a dishwasher, but that defeats the point.) As I stand at the kitchen window, washing dishes and watching birds, I “write.” I compose this column in my head, thinking about you guys. I intend to be thoughtful with what you read on this page. The words I choose to transfer to paper are never written in the office cubicle in where I spend my working hours. This column is always drafted off-site, usually in the early morning hours when the house is quiet, and the coffee is hot. My efforts feel more authentic that way.

Before Christmas, I spent time with the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) board of directors and other staff members analyzing the future of agriculture during a strategic thought leader exercise. The agricultural sector is poised to undergo a massive transformation in the next 20 years. Just thinking about the future state of soy is both incredibly exciting and overwhelmingly nerve-wracking. There’s so much to consider. As a long-time ISA employee, I can assure you, the farmer directors working on your behalf are top-notch. This organization is not only ready for this new year; it’s ready for the next two decades. Good things are ahead. I can’t wait to embark on this journey with you. In the meantime, I’ve got dishes to do. Let me know if you have any bird expertise to share with me. Be well, my friends.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 27

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Iowa Soybean Review | January 2022

Articles inside

The Last Word

Letters to the Editor

Fast Five

Not Just a Fad

Soil and Water Health

Buried Treasure

Innovation to Profit Conference

Crops and Clicks

Farmland Values Skyrocket

Executive Insights

Testing the Waters