Iowa Soybean Review | October 2023 by Iowa Soybean Association

October 2023

Inside: The Next Big Thing in Traceability

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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 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 two months 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.

OCTOBER 2023 | Vol. 36, No. 1

Transparency and Traceability Farmers balance supply and demand considerations during think tank discussions.

Theft in the Fields Farmers weigh in on how to protect ag technology.

Experience Iowa’s Soybean Industry ISA Experience Class participants learn how their checkoff investment is connected to various educational and research efforts in Iowa.

Trade Mission Insights Midwest soybean farmers traveled to India on a weeklong trade mission in early June. While there, farmers reassured soybean buyers that the U.S. will have large quantities of soybean meal competitively priced and ready for export. On the Cover Colton Janssen combining soybeans near Arlington.

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Ditching Labels Aaron Putze, APR ISA Chief Off icer, Strategy & Brand Management aputze@iasoybeans.com

“

Corporate farmer.” “Environmental polluter.” “Mega-producer.” “Greedy.” If you’ve spent any time working in ag, you’ve likely heard one or more of these labels lobbed by some to describe farmers. If you’re a farmer or serve these dedicated families, you take umbrage to the generalizations, and rightfully so. Young people aren’t immune to labels, either. “Lazy,” “narcissistic,” “disengaged,” and “entitled” are popular descriptives to paint a picture of Generation Alpha (those born after 2000). Just like the inaccurate portrayals of farmers, the broad characterization of today’s youth and young professionals is misguided. I was reminded of this fact during a recent engagement with Leadership Iowa University (LIU) participants. A program of the Iowa Association of Business & Industry, LIU bridges the gap between school and career by connecting several dozen emerging leaders with a multitude of Iowa professionals while introducing them to diverse careers and experiences. The Iowa Soybean Association is a proud LIU sponsor. It’s

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one of several strategic partnerships ISA maintains to engage influencers about the relevance of soybeans and the farmers who grow and market them. This was my sixth opportunity to speak to LIU. Each event has been rewarding but this year’s lively discussion, held on the second floor of George’s Pizza in uptown Pella, raised the bar. The LIU class included students from Des Moines Area Community College, Drake University, William Penn, Central and Loras Colleges and Iowa and Iowa State Universities (to name a few). Students were focused, knowledgeable and inquisitive. They peppered me with questions about uses for soy, the reach of Iowa agricultural exports and increasing adoption of farming practices to reduce carbon emissions and improve soil and water quality. One student eagerly provided details about research she’d completed on soybased fuels. Others offered stories about just-completed internships that brought them closer to farmers. They inquired about career opportunities in agriculture and related fields. More than a dozen students handed me their business cards with a promise to connect via LinkedIn or Facebook.

Understanding the connectedness of agriculture, these students may call on these networks down the road for employment leads upon graduation. It was dusk when we adjourned. As I traveled Highway 163 westward to my home in Waukee, I marveled at the brilliance of the sunset and the waves of golden tassels and fields carpeted with soybeans passing by. I also reveled in all that had just taken place: the smiles and high fives from students, their thoughtful questions and genuine desire to learn more about a soybean industry that sustains life, nourishes livestock, poultry, dairy and fish, fuels trucks, buses, trains, and planes, and warms homes. I found myself reenergized about my chosen profession of serving farmers. And I was reminded why I relish being a member of team ISA. We intentionally seek conversation with all audiences. We engage with those who have a sincere interest in what farmers do and welcome questions about modern farming (check out www.iowafoodandfamily.com). We ignore labels and appreciate meaningful conversations. We’re passionate and enthusiastic about the world of soy and the lives it benefits. And make no mistake, that passion and enthusiasm is contagious and will benefit agriculture and the soybean industry for generations.

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( 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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Cruising Into Fall

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

dug my heels — and then nestled each toe — into the white powdery sand of Half Moon Cay. The cerulean blue water — a color I had only seen in wax form in a box of Crayola crayons — waved for me to come take a closer look. Half Moon Cay, located in the Bahamas, was a port of call on a recent cruise my husband and I took to celebrate our wedding anniversary. The island is one of more than 700 in the Atlantic that make up the Bahamas. As my feet made their imprints into the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, the waves brought an abundance of seashells ashore. I couldn’t help to think of it as the crop of the ocean, though we did see some fish and coral as we journeyed below the surface of the water to snorkel. Like harvest, this was a highly anticipated trip with several logistics to consider. Will the conditions be right for travel? (We luckily missed Hurricane Idalia.) Will our flights be on time? Will we still be able to connect with our 5-year-old back home? A million memories flood my mind while reflecting on this trip.

We witnessed beautiful sunrises and sunsets (photos don’t do them justice). Our steward, Luki, made us a fun towel animal each day after cleaning our room. We completely relaxed in beach chairs, competed in trivia contests, ate too many slices of pizza and ice cream cones, and took in multiple shows while cruising from Galveston, Texas, to the Bahamas. But it’s nice to be home as we cruise into fall and harvest. Cooler temps mean harvest is nearing; I’m changing from beachwear to ‘bean’wear. I hope the visits to your ports of call (your fields) are just as pleasant this fall. I hope the corn and soybeans growing in your fields gently wave you in for harvest. As you dip your tires into the fields, I hope the waves are gentle. I hope your souvenirs — in the form of outstanding yields — are fruitful, like the shells I saw and collected on the beaches of the Bahamas. Most of all, I wish you safe sailing. Until next time,

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Iowa Soybean Farmers Elect New Leadership to Bolster Demand, Expand Opportunities BY BROCK JOHNSTON

armer-leaders of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) elected Suzanne Shirbroun of Farmersburg as president during its September board meeting held in Ames. The association’s 22 volunteer farmer directors represent the state’s nine crop reporting districts in overseeing the management and allocation of soybean checkoff and non-checkoff resources. Shirbroun was first elected as a District 3 director in 2016. She and her husband Joe manage a sixth-generation diversified row crop and seed business in Clayton County. They have been long-time participants in ISA production research activities and advocates for the soybean checkoff and agriculture. “It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to represent Iowa’s soybean farmers in this capacity,” says Shirbroun, who most recently served as ISA president-elect. “From market development to international trade, increased demand for high-quality soy is driving farmer optimism heading into the new year. As stewards of soybean checkoff dollars, the ISA board will continue advancing issues directly benefiting Iowa soybean farmers.” Four farmer-leaders were also appointed to serve on the

association’s Executive Committee, including: Brent Swart, President-Elect, Spencer Jeff Frank, Treasurer, Lake View Tom Adam, Secretary, Harper Brent Renner, At-Large, Klemme Directors are elected by Iowa soybean farmers in July and take office in September. Members vote for two farmers from their crop reporting district and vote for four at-large directors. Newly elected farmers who will serve three-year terms on the board were: Paul Kassel, Spencer (District 1); Sam Showalter, Hampton (District 2); Corey Goodhue, Carlisle (District 5); Aimee Bissell, Bedford (At-Large); and Sharon Chism, Huxley (At-Large). ISA directors also re-elected Steph Essick of Dickens (Clay County); Morey Hill of Madrid (Boone County); and Dave Walton of Wilton (Muscatine County); as directors on the American Soybean Association (ASA) board. Immediate past president Randy Miller of Lacona (Warren County) and Tom Adam (Keokuk County) will join the ASA board for first terms beginning in December.

The 2023-2024 Iowa Soybean Association executive directors: (left to right) Jeff Frank (Lake View), treasurer; Brent Swart (Spencer), president-elect; Suzanne Shirbroun (Farmersburg), ISA president; Brent Renner (Klemme), at-large; and Tom Adam (Harper), secretary.

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Make Moves with U.S. Soy Our founding farmers took action 22 years ago to launch ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health so WISHH could grow new markets for U.S. Soy. Today, WISHH is working with strategic partners that use soy for food or feed in 28 countries across Asia and Latin America to sub-Saharan Africa. Find out how WISHH’s three pillars of trade, development and food security cultivate new markets for U.S. Soy protein.

Trade. Development. Food Security.

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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. 10 | OCTOBER 2023 | IASOYBEANS.COM

T R A N S PA R E N C Y A N D T R A C E A B I L I TY Forum and think tank participants take on issues facing the soybean industry. BY JEFF HUTTON

rom the field to dinner plate, from the grain elevator to the fuel tank, from the silo to the end product overseas — transparency and traceability are critical to the future of soybean production. “Traceability and transparency have been topics of conversation for many years, but it’s challenging to envision how it would work for a bulk commodity crop like soybeans,” Jennifer Coleman, director of communications for Aimpoint Research, told farmers, ag professionals, academics and other stakeholders at the Soybean Research Forum and Think Tank this summer. Consumer demand is a market driver, Coleman says. They’re demanding transparency on food origination, safety, and other foodrelated factors more than ever. “Experience is much more important to millennials,” she says. “It’s not just about having the food but experiencing their food.”

For 63% of consumers, knowing where their food comes from increases their trust, while 89% believe food producers and companies have an obligation to be transparent, Coleman added. Traceability, she says, has been a hallmark of many products, but not as much of a focus for soybeans and other commodities. “There is more than just one driver moving this trend toward greater transparency and traceability,” Coleman says. “It’s not just consumer demand, it’s also concerns about food safety, the ability to prove claims, and protection from liability. Secondly, there are a lot of companies creating new technologies that will be able to solve the challenges in tracing bulk commodities and it’s evolving quickly.”

Bridging supply and demand Katherine Drake Stowe, director of the U.S. Soybean Research

Collaborative, says the event was created to facilitate these forwardthinking conversations. “Farmers’ questions today are much more complex than they were 30 years ago and it will take thinking about research differently to answer those questions and continue to drive the industry forward,” says Stowe. Unlike other meetings and events which may focus on one area of the soybean industry, the Think Tank brings together a diverse set of players from across the value chain. “The Think Tank is one of the only times a year we have a diverse cross section of farmers, academics and industry professionals all in the same room sharing ideas and exchanging knowledge,” Stowe says. “Having the opportunity for these individuals to be exposed to each other is powerful for fueling future collaborations and innovations.” Continued on Page 13.

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A WAY F O R WA R D At the conclusion of the 2023 Think Tank, participants identified and prioritized the top needs related to transparency and traceability in the soybean industry. They brainstormed strategies to meet those needs. Six themes emerged:

COMMUNICATION THROUGHOUT THE VALUE CHAIN

DEFINING GOAL POSTS

Hold grain buyer round tables to understand how they think about transparency and traceability, including their plans for infrastructure.

Create a transparency protocol and stick to it as an industry. Try not to jump into every trend as soon as it is demanded by a food company.

CONNECT WITH CONSUMERS

FARMER BUY-IN

Use data to make better management decisions. Share the facts that align with consumers’ shared values. Tell stories of what is happening on farm and in ag research.

Help farmers better understand the landscape of traceability, intellectual property, transparency and sustainability.

DATA COLLECTION Seamless integration of data captured on farm into third party audits, sustainability initiatives, etc.

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AGRONOMIC INNOVATION Increased profitability to encourage adoption of new practices.

It’s a wrap

Aimpoint Research Director of Communications Jennifer Coleman speaks to audience members at the Soybean Research Forum and Think Tank in Indianapolis.

Iowa Soybean Association Director of Research Joe McClure says the Think Tank continues to facilitate discussions that ultimately helps he and other participants see the bigger picture. “The Think Tank was a great opportunity to join a diverse group of people from the soy industry and satellite industries to think about what the future could look like, the evolution of the consumer and the questions that need to be explored so farmers can stay viable and excel, says McClure. “Future solutions will require organizations who normally would never need to collaborate to come together on novel research projects. More questions are asked than solutions given at this meeting, and this is where new collaborations can start to look into these questions.” Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com

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From left, Will Cornelius f rom Cornelius Seed, Iowa Soybean Association President-elect Suzanne Shirbroun, Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.), Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (R-Ill.) and Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa), discuss the protection of U.S. intellectual property, specif ically ag technology.

Theft in the Fields STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFF HUTTON

ore than a decade ago in Dysart, a farmer spotted a man, Mo Hailong, digging up hybrid corn seeds. Hailong then sent the seeds back to China. The FBI later arrested him and others, and they were charged with stealing approximately $30 million worth of U.S. ag technology. Other cases followed, including Xiang Haitao, who stole technical ag information from his employer, a Monsanto subsidiary. He was stopped at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, where the FBI discovered an SD card in his possession, which contained the information. Eleven years later, Iowa farmers including Iowa Soybean Association President Suzanne Shirbroun were asked their ideas on protecting ag technology and intellectual property. The Congressional Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) held the event at Youngblut Ag in Dysart.

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But why is the CCP after U.S. seeds and ag technology? “I believe this is part of a much larger plan to steal intellectual property - a countrywide heist of American intellectual property,” says Committee Chairman Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.), who noted that $225 billion to $600 billion worth of trade secrets and intellectual property are stolen every year by global competitors with China as the “world’s principal infringer.” “Just like the farmer in the Iowa field, we are being robbed every day, in plain sight, by the Chinese Community Party,” Gallagher said. “Our farms are more than just places to grow food, they are research laboratories … we have a duty to protect all our technology, whether it’s in Silicon Valley or on a farm in Iowa.”

Iowa perspectives As the United States considers

its relationship with China in the contest of food and agriculture, “we must do so strategically with a firm understanding of our country’s national and agricultural interests,” says Shirbroun, of Farmersburg. “While there is little doubt that China has targeted the United States’ intellectual property and engaged in unfair trade practices, let’s proceed cautiously, please, as there isn’t another market that can completely replace China for America’s soybean farmers,” Shirbroun says. She noted that China has become the largest importer of soybeans in the world and the top export market for U.S. soy at nearly 30 million metric tons annually. “One in every three rows of soybeans you saw on the drive here today goes to China,” Shirbroun says. So, how should the U.S. combat unfair trade practices and manage the relationship?

Fairly, but firmly, Shirbroun says. “Theft of intellectual property and the use of unfair trade practices are unacceptable,” she says. “Such acts should not be tolerated and should be contested.” Benton County farmer Lori Lang and Will Cornelius, who along with his family, owns and operates Cornelius Seed in Bellevue, were in step with Shirbroun. Lang says the United States needs to pull tighter on the reins of Chinese investment in American agriculture through regulations and the Justice Department. It’s clear the Chinese are seeking U.S. seed technology to withstand poor soil and/or less-thanideal climate conditions, Cornelius noted. Cornelius pointed out to the advancements of genetic gains over the last several years, pointing out the drought of 1988 where crops were decimated to the drought of 2012, where remarkable yields in soybeans and corn were strong. China, Cornelius says, wants that caliber of technology to make those same gains. “We’re blessed with amazing soil, knowledge and advancements,” he says, adding China is cognizant of American ingenuity and know-how.

Treading carefully, but decisively Despite the motives of the CCP and other bad actors, Shirbroun cautioned that the United States act deliberately and thoughtful in protecting American agricultural interests. “Soybean farmers started building a relationship and soybean market in China over 40 years ago and we are well aware of the time and financial

commitment it takes to establish a new market,” she says. Shirbroun says she does not agree with some that the United States revoke China’s permanent mostfavored nation status to punish the Chinese. A move like that would

improve the operating environment for U.S. businesses and farmers and ensure American goods and services are treated fairly. • Insist China make real progress in establishing a more predictable, timely, and transparent approval

“ Theft of intellectual property and the use of unfair trade practices are unacceptable.” Suzanne Shirbroun , Iowa Soybean Association president

“decimate agriculture exports and would deal a great blow to farmers.” She says the U.S. export market must explore other areas of the world where soybeans, corn and other goods can be shared. Shirbroun cited examples like Cambodia and Vietnam where expansion could help lessen the dependence on China. She encouraged the committee to consider the following: • Support targeted export controls on sensitive technologies that safeguard U.S. innovation and national security and help farmers and the agriculture industry protect critical data, information, and intellectual property. • Work to reduce retaliatory tariffs on U.S. soybeans, broaden the tariff exclusion process, and prioritize progress on outstanding structural challenges in China. This will

process. While the Phase One Agreement required China to reform its biotech approval process, enforcement was noticeably absent. • Build upon efforts to improve U.S. ties with other key trading partners with shared interests. It’s been more than a decade since the U.S. entered into a new free trade agreement, she noted. • Expand farm bill trade promotion programs like the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program to strengthen our relationships that will grow and diversify ag markets.

What more can be done? Along with trade expansion, Shirbroun, Cornelius and Lang say more needs to be done in terms of education, research and development (R&D) of new seeds and other ag technologies. Cornelius says investment in landContinued on Page 16.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 15

grant universities, extension programs and organizations like the ISA need more support from Congress is needed to increase R&D efforts. Shirbroun added getting more ag-based education in school districts will spur more young people to go into agriculture — not just traditional farming, but all aspects of agriculture, including research, horticulture and more. Both Cornelius and Shirbroun noted that encouraging the development and domestic marketing of biofuels would help alleviate export pressure. The U.S., then, could rely

less on foreign oil. “It all works together,” Cornelius says. “If we can find alternative uses, we can keep more of it at home, and it adds value.” “Biofuels are a great opportunity,” Shirbroun says. “It’s exciting to be a soybean farmer today with biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel. It’s also a national security issue — we don’t have to look elsewhere for oil, adding value to our products. I’d rather keep our dollars here as much as possible.” Shirbroun wrapped up the discussion with one last thought:

“Standing on the sidelines of international trade is eroding our global leadership and our longterm economic strength,” she says. “Without fair, firm, thoughtful and deliberate action, the challenges facing us not only threaten my generation’s ability to carry on the family farm, but also my sons’ opportunity as the seventh generation.” Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com

Iowa Soybean Association President-elect Suzanne Shirbroun, left, Benton County farmer Lori Lang and Rep. Ashley Hinson meet to discuss concerns related to the theft of U.S. intellectual property, including seeds and ag technology.

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your

cooperative

soybean processor

www.agp.com

Experience Class members toured the corn and soybean plots at Corteva’s headquarters in Johnston. These demonstration plots feature commercial varieties being used by farmers.

A tour of Flynn Wright, Inc. gave the Experience Class a look at a full-service agency. They learned about the Annual Farmer Survey conducted in cooperation with the Iowa Soybean Assocation.

CORTEVA

FLYNN WRIGHT

Experiencing Iowa’ A

three-day tour in the western half of Iowa showed participants in the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Experience Class how their checkoff investments are being used in education, promotion and research efforts. Here’s where they went:

Corteva Agriscience, Johnston Corteva Agriscience is the only major agriscience company completely dedicated to agriculture. The company combines the strengths of DuPont Pioneer, DuPont Crop Protection, and Dow AgroSciences for a combined lifespan of over two centuries. Experience Class members visited the Genotyping Lab, where plant materials, including whole seeds, leaf and root tissue, are sampled from across the globe for trait confirmation. “It is nice to have the understanding to know the traits that go into a bag of seed are confirmed,” says Paul Kassel, ISA District 1 director and soybean farmer near Spencer. They also got a sneak peek into the future of Corteva seed in their crop genome engineering lab, where scientists are working on developing traits for higher yields, and pest and

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weed resistance. Before visiting commercial plots, the group looked inside Corteva’s greenhouse, which is the second link in the chain after the lab. The greenhouse spans four acres, and everything that will be in a Corteva seed bag in 10 years will have been tested in the facility. Corteva regularly sponsors the American Soybean Association’s Corteva Young Leader Program, the Iowa Soybean Research Center (ISRC) at Iowa State University and advertises in the Iowa Soybean Review. These investments leverage soybean checkoff dollars to strengthen programming and research efforts.

Flynn Wright, Inc., Des Moines Established in 1984, Flynn Wright, Inc. is headquartered in Des Moines. They are a full-service advertising agency that offers marketing, advertising, public relations and more. Media partners, such as Flynn Wright, Inc., help in ISA’s Communications Squad programming, offering participants tips on better presenting themselves and their farms to nonfarming audiences. The Experience Class saw a behind-

the-scenes look at how Flynn Wright, Inc. works for its clients, including ISA. ISA works with Flynn Wright, Inc., to conduct the Annual Farmer Survey to explore opportunities that support farmer profitability, productivity and sustainability efforts. “The survey provides valuable farmer insights to the board of directors to help make decisions on how they will allocate checkoff dollars. It also guides the program and priorities of focus for ISA staff and gives the organization a better understanding of on-farm behaviors and characteristics,” says ISA Public Relations Manager Brock Johnston. The survey also gauges producer satisfaction with the soybean checkoff and familiarity with ISA. The survey is sent via email and text to all active and non-activated Iowa farmers who’ve certified they grow at least 250 bushels of soybeans annually.

Iowa State University Field Extension Education Laboratory (FEEL), Boone With more than 400 demonstration plots, FEEL offers a wide range of educational opportunities. The field lab has provided hands-on diagnostic

The ISU Field Extension Education Laboratory (FEEL) features 29 acres of space and has been an essential resource for state’s farmers, crop advisors and more.

AJ and Kellie Blair of Dayton hosted the Experience Class where members got a close up look at their new drainage water recycling project.

BLAIR FARM

ISU FEEL FACILITY

s Soybean Industry training for crop production and protection professionals since 1987. Learning opportunities include insect, weed and disease management, crop fertility, corn and soybean production, tillage and crop rotation, reconstruction of prairies, hail damage, and fertilizer and herbicide injuries, with many plots dedicated to particular seasonal challenges. The tour involved a close-up look at the demonstration plots, classroom time spent identifying soybean plant diseases with Iowa State University (ISU) experts, and an insight into the Iowa Soybean Research Center (ISRC). The ISRC partners with ISA, industry leaders, farmers and researchers at ISU. The goal of this effort is to identify and fund research in the areas of soybean production and protection. The center involves and helps coordinate research, teaching and extension activities of faculty and staff who work in soybean biology, breeding, economics precision agriculture, production and pest management at ISU

and ISA. Financial support for the ISRC comes from ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, soybean checkoff investment and industry partners. As of 2022, the ISRC reached a new milestone, having been awarded more than $2 million in research funding since its inception in 2014. This includes funding from ISA and industry dollars combined. Working collaboratively, ISA has helped fund and assist with soybean cyst nematode (SCN) research. “We have the biggest field research program in the nation to evaluate soybean cyst nematode resistant varieties and seed treatments, and we are doing that on farmer’s fields,” says Greg Tylka, director of the ISRC and Morrill Professor at Iowa State University. ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI) collaborates with ISRC by scouting fields and gathering soil samples. This is just one example of the partnership. “We are all working for the Iowa soybean farmer,” Tylka says.

Blair Farm, Dayton At AJ and Kellie Blair’s farm near Dayton, Experience Class participants saw how an idea can start as a concept and grow to an on-farm practice. The ISA members have participated in RCFI trials, including research on cover crops, tile monitoring, and recently installed a drainage water recycling structure. The three-acre area features a holding pond and the excess water captured is used later in the growing season in a pivot-irrigation system. RCFI's goal is to deliver the very best farmer-led research combining agronomic, conservation and analytics tailored for soybean farmers so they can implement results and improve their operation. Soybean checkoff investment helps fund these research efforts across the state. The insights derived from these trials help create interactive tools to help farmers make more informed decisions on their farm. Continued on Page 20. IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 19

Landus Cooperative’s Ralston location is home to the company’s soy processing plant where SoyPlus, a product of the company’s Dairy Nutrition Plus family of products is manufactured.

Experience Class members followed the production line watching the several steps it takes to build a grain trailer.

LANDUS

Landus, Ralston As a farmer-owned cooperative headquartered in Iowa, Landus works directly with thousands of farmers in communities throughout rural America. Using data to connect key contributors across the ag supply chain, Landus helps farmers build sustainable and profitable businesses and activates a more secure food and fuel future for farmers and consumers. Experience Class participants saw how Landus is using locally-raised soybeans to make SoyPlus, a high-bypass protein feed ingredient for dairy rations. In addition to producing the feed ingredient, Landus also markets soy oil to the renewable diesel industry. More than 70,000 bushels of soybeans are processed through the all-natural, mechanical expeller process. Using more than 25 million bushels of soybean each year, the Ralson plant is one of the largest mechanical processing facilities in the world. “I love learning about where our end product goes,” says Brian Strasser, a farmer from Homestead. “So much of the time, when we are growing our crops, we don’t really understand where it goes and what people do with it. It was rewarding to be on the Landus SoyPlus tour.” More than 30 million tons of U.S.

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soybean meal was used in livestock feed last year. According to SoyStats, this includes the soybean meal and products processed by Landus facilities in Iowa. (Soy Stats, produced by the American Soybean Association with support from ISA).

Wilson Trailer, Sioux City Nearly 587 million bushels of soybeans were produced in Iowa last year. Those bushels and livestock fed with soy byproducts were transported to cooperatives and other facilities in trailers like those manufactured at Wilson Trailer. Participants on the tour learned of the company’s 130-plus year history in livestock, grain and flatbed trailer sales. Wilson Trailer Company maintains headquarters in Sioux City, Iowa, and operates five modern production plants in Yankton, South Dakota; Moberly, Missouri; Lennox, South Dakota and Sioux City. Two of those five facilities are located in Sioux City. Familyowned since its origin, Wilson Trailer is guided by the fourth generation of this family and the fifth generation is poised for future company leadership. Here, participants learned how the company continues the legacy in the design, manufacture, and marketing of transportation products.

WILSON

Port of Blencoe, Blencoe Realizing the opportunities a port would bring to Iowa farmers, ISA board of directors in 2020 approved a checkoff investment of $49,525 toward the engineering, design and plan development of a port on Iowa’s west ‘coast’. Experience Class saw the port in action during the visit. Located halfway between Council Bluffs and Sioux City on the Missouri River, the Port of Blencoe is a gateway to the world markets. Owned by NEW Cooperative, Inc., this port is the farthest stop north on the Missouri River, shifting high-volume freight from the road to the waterway. Barges began transporting grain and fertilizer to and from the port in the spring of 2021. In addition, growers in western Iowa will get the first opportunity for trade at the world market. The 38-acre site can accommodate 240,000 tons of soybeans, corn, dried distillers grains (DDGS), dry fertilizers and ag lime annually. The site also has the capacity to unload, clean and reload up to nine barges simultaneously.

Benson Hill Ingredients, LLC, Creston Farmers and Benson Hill are growing specific soybean varieties to meet the exact needs of consumers. One of these soybean varieties is explicitly

NEW Cooperative began transporting grain and fertilizer to and f rom their port in 2021.

BLENCOE

crushed for the aquaculture industry to feed trout and salmon. The farmers specializing in the varieties they grow are seeing additional value come back to their farm. Participants learned how Benson Hill Ingredients, LLC is focused on producing and selling quality ingredients for food, feed and cooking oil. The company works to enhance protein, value-added oils and more. Their portfolio includes soy flour used in snacks, baked goods, meat extensions, and traditional soy protein concentrate alternatives. Benson Hill’s Creston facility acquisition of the former ZFS Creston, LLC facility was completed in January of 2022. The facility is an established food-grade white flake and soy flour manufacturing operation. Soy white flake is a key ingredient for food-grade applications in products for aquaculture markets in northern Europe and ingredients for companies like Kellogg’s. “I was impressed with their crushing process and to learn about their international and domestic markets of soy protein and soy products,” says Kassel. Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com

Experience Class members heard f rom Benson Hill employees a history of the company and opportunities available to Iowa soybean growers. They were also given a tour of their Creston soy processing facility.

BENSON HILL

Participants visited eight different stops during this year’s Experience Class tour, from innovative research centers to ports and waterways. “The ISA Experience Class gave participants an inside look at the work ISA is doing on behalf of Iowa’s soybean farmers,” says Kennady Moffitt, ISA producer services coordinator. “These visits hit home the benefits of checkoff dollars,” says Moffitt. Kennady Moff itt, ISA producer services Realizing the scope of what ISA does and coordinator it’s involvement with industry partners is part of participating in the Experience Class. “You are bringing farmers that may not have engaged with the Iowa Soybean Association before and letting them meet and interact with board members, staff and the industry and get a feel for what we do every day and the relationship we have with those partners,” says Randy Miller, past ISA president and soybean farmer from Lacona. It also gives farmers a chance to network. “You get to meet people from all over the state that use different farming practices,” says Miller. “It helps you to hone in on some different practices that might work on your operation.” Though not new to ISA’s program offerings, farmer Brian Strasser of Homestead said the Experience Class tour showed him a broader view of ISA. “I had already participated in Policy Leaders Fellowship, but I want to know more about the Iowa Soybean Association,” he says. “I continue to see opportunities for doing more with the association in the future.” Paul Kassel, ISA District 1 director and soybean farmer near Spencer, enjoyed meeting other farmers and seeing firsthand how soy gets from the bag to the end destination. “This was a great trip,” he says. “It was an excellent overview of the soybean industry in Iowa.”

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 21

Management of Soybean Gall Midge in Iowa Scott Nelson ISA Research Agronomist

oybean gall midge is a relatively new species of soybean pest spreading in Iowa. Reports of potential soybean gall midge injury in the far western parts of Iowa were noted as early as 2016, with Iowa State University confirming soybean gall midge spreading as far east as I-35 with new confirmations in Marion County in 2023. Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska and South Dakota also face severe pest outbreaks.

A field perspective Through his normal scouting routine, Dennis Reinke, sales agronomist for NEW Cooperative, Inc., found soybean gall midge had invaded soybean fields in his territory. While Reinke and other producers in the western part of the state have dealt with soybean gall midge in the past, this is the most widespread they have seen the pest. Typically found in the field’s border near grassy areas, this year they located the soybean gall midge 150 feet from the border and in otherwise healthy plants. “That was alarming to me,” says Reinke. “The fact that the pest was found in fields with no symptoms of yellowing or wilting leaves or dead plants, and we were still finding it.” This is the largest outbreak he has found in his area near Moville west to the Missouri river.

The soybean gall midge life cycle Understanding the life cycle of soybean gall midge is crucial to managing this pest.

First-generation soybean gall midge emerges from the overwintering in grass waterways, fencerows and infested fields beginning in June and are weak flyers with a life cycle of three to five days. The adults cannot penetrate soybean stems and lay eggs into cracks and wounds in the soybean plant. These eggs hatch into larvae, and the larvae feed on stem and root tissue, leading to plant death. After feeding, the larvae pupate, fall into the soil and emerge as second-generation adults that spread further into the field. Most commonly, Iowa has two to three generations per year.

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Fig 1. Compared to untreated plots, yield response to soil-applied Thimet at 7.5 oz/A and 9.0 oz/A, respectively. Source: McMechan, 2021

Fig 2. Treating end rows with Thimet may provide economic suppression of soybean gall midge. Green = No Thimet; Grey = Thimet treated.

Foliar insecticides lack efficacy

Planting dates

Trials conducted by the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), University of Nebraska and Iowa State University showed foliar insecticides that are currently available were ineffective at controlling soybean gall midge. In contrast, insecticide seed treatments have shown minimal efficacy. Currently, commercially available foliar applications of insecticides lack the needed suppression of this midge.

Entomologists have documented more soybean gall midge abundance in April planted soybeans compared to late May. They observed that later planted soybeans are less affected by soybean gall midge. This may be related to a lack of suitable hosts when it emerges, fewer injury points on plants for entering, or another mechanism. In ISA research, the yield advantage for soybeans planted in April compared to late May or early June planting is between 5 to 10 bushels per acre. Farmers may still consider later planting in fields with a history of soybean gall midge if severe damage occurs. It may take only a few seasons of later planting dates to reduce the pest’s populations. Planting dates are a highly active area of investigation, with the additional publication of more data on this concept expected.

Soil-applied Thimet insecticide Beginning in 2019, ISA also partnered with AMVAC Chemical Corp. to evaluate soil-applied insecticide Thimet at 7.5 and 9 ounces per acre at planting. In these trials, we observed healthier soybean plants along end rows where Thimet was applied at five locations in western Iowa. A follow-up small plot experiment in Iowa showed a fourbushel per acre yield advantage for applied Thimet at planting. The University of Nebraska has researched soil-applied Thimet to suppress soybean gall midge. In Figure 1 is an adaptation of these results published by Justin McMechan (Evaluation of At-Planting Soil Treatment Thimet Against Soybean Gall Midge, 2020. Arthropod Management Tests, Volume 46, Issue 1, 2021). This study had three sites ranging from low, moderate and high populations of soybean gall midge. On average, Thimet increased soybean yield by at least 12 bushels per acre. Thimet is hazardous and expensive, and the application requires a closed system. It is currently unclear whether the entire field requires treatment with Thimet as soybean gall midge begins feeding along the outer field. Farmers could plausibly realize economic suppression of soybean gall midge by only treating the perimeter, as shown in Figure 2. However, additional research on method, cost and overall usage is needed as the efficacy of this solution is still being determined, given reports of overwintering in the middle of fields.

Other practices Soybean gall midge enters the soybean plant through cracks in the stems. In university trials, hilling or burying the stems without burying the plant has effectively managed gall midge. Some farmers have merged fields to reduce grass waterways or fence rows to reduce refuge for soybean gall midge with some success. However, waterways established to control erosion should be protected.

Conclusions Scientists have learned much about soybean gall midge and have made substantial progress. We remain hopeful that progress will continue until we have developed more feasible practices. In the near term, effective suppression of soybean gall midge may involve later planting dates in fields with a history of soybean gall midge or using soilapplied Thimet, though further research is needed.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 23

A historic red barn at the Poor Farm in Johnson County.

Clockwise f rom the top: The Backbone State Park is nestled in rural northeast Iowa. A worm’s eye view in a soybean f ield row near Boone. A grain co-op scene in Luther. Farmer members listening to information during Experience Class at the Port of Blencoe. Identif ied Asian beetle in a central Iowa soybean f ield. The Drost Family gathers for a picture near New Sharon.

Editor’s note: Midwest soybean farmers traveled to India on a weeklong trade mission in early June. While there, farmers reassured soybean buyers that the U.S. will have large quantities of soybean meal competitively priced and ready for export. They also saw the markets and ports that use and transport soybeans (see Page 29 for an additional story). STORY AND PHOTOS BY AARON PUTZE, APR

hileans are developing a big-time taste for barbecue and Iowa-grown beef, and that bodes well for increased U.S. exports to the South American country. “Sabor, USA” is code in Chile for “U.S. beef has great flavor!” Beef brisket produced by U.S. farmers is a strong seller in Chilean supermarkets. It’s also a staple at Curacaribs Smokehouse. The locally owned eatery is growing in popularity among Chilean consumers. Known for its slow-smoking and savory sauces, Curacarbis serves up generous portions of barbecued spareribs, brisket, chicken and turkey in a casual setting (indoors and out). “People are getting a taste for barbecue in Chile and few do it better than Curacaribs,” says Sebastian Gre, program coordinator for the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). A Chilean native and culinary chef, Gre says Curacaribs is gaining a loyal following because of the “really good technique and flavor” of their products. The company is also nimble. When restaurant traffic ground to a halt in 2021 due to the pandemic, Curacaribs ramped up production of its smoked, prepackaged meats. Sales soared and have remained strong even as the pandemic has waned.

26 | OCTOBER 2023 | IASOYBEANS.COM

Among its most popular offerings is beef brisket sourced from Tama, Iowa-based Iowa Premium Beef. “Barbecue is popular in Chile and that’s really good news for U.S. farmers,” says Gre, who served as an executive chef for Weber Grills Chile before joining the USMEF team. “You often start with the retailers when looking to expand market share,” he added. “But restaurants like Curacaribs is also offering a ton of opportunity.” Contact Aaron Putze at aputze@iasoybeans.com

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CONGRATULATIONS to our drone winner! B

rad Holdgrafer, a soybean farmer from Bryant, is the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) grand prize recipient of new drone technology from a summer giveaway contest aimed at driving farmer membership across the state. To be eligible for the drawing, participants were asked to activate or confirm their ISA Farmer Membership. For farmers who certify they produced and marketed at least 250 bushels of soybeans annually, ISA’s Farmer Membership is available at no additional cost. The opportunity is made possible through soybean checkoff investments by Iowa’s 40,000 soybean growers. Holdgrafer is a new member, and is eager to get involved and learn more about what ISA offers. He is excited to use his new drone to enhance their farm's social media presence with videos of their farming efforts. This harvest season, having greater access and input is more important than ever. Becoming an ISA Farmer Member gives growers both. More than 14,000 soybean farmers across Iowa are plugged into the association — receiving timely industry information and real-time opportunities to offer feedback and suggestions to ISA’s board of volunteer farmer directors tasked with allocating soy checkoff funds in areas that improve the profitability, productivity, sustainability and competitiveness of the state’s soybean farmers.

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STORY AND PHOTOS BY AARON PUTZE, APR

ou don’t have trade without ports. Educated as a chemical engineer, Chris Valenzuela is navigating the challenges of managing the flow of commerce as CEO of Puerto Panau, Chile. It’s not a job for the faint of heart. A lease to operate the port expires in 2029 and labor unrest among the port’s 130 employees represented by four unions is constant. And, to add to the fun, ever-increasing regulations driven by a far-left government makes upgrades to the port’s infrastructure nearly impossible. “Maintaining the operating concession (contract) is more political than it is technical or financial,” says Valenzuela. “Environmental restrictions make it difficult to invest. Much time and attention are given to just maintaining the technology we have.” Located near San Antonio on the Pacific Coast of Chile, the port is a symphony of activity. Constructed in 1915, it’s one of the country’s busiest commerce hubs. More than 25% of all cargo received by the port sails out of the United States and Canada. Two cranes move more than 1,000 tons of cargo per hour, operating 24/7. Given the port is absent warehouses and silos, trucks and a handful of trains are in constant motion transporting freight immediately from the dock to waiting customers scattered throughout central Chile (home to 90% of the country’s population). That output translates to almost 12,000 tons per day of corn and about 9,500 tons of soy and moved by 400 trucks. “Our biggest challenge is continuing to operate the port

more efficiently and move more cargo more quickly,” says Valenzuela. The port moves nearly 3.3 million metric tons (MMT) of product annually. Valenzuela says the goal is to achieve 4 MMT. “That’s a big challenge given the political, regulatory and environmental climate we’re currently working in.” Recently, Omaha-based Ag Processing, Inc., moved three vessels of soybean meal to Chile via Gray’s Harbor in the Pacific Northwest. The shipments represent about 3% of soybean meal cargo received at Puerto Panau. Whole soybeans and some soybean oil also make their way through the port, including 20,000 MT of the legume via the Gulf. Valenzuela says most soy that enters Chile arrives by truck from Argentina. However, the trek through the Andes can be slow and even dangerous during winter. Last year, Puerto Panau increased volume through the port by 2-3% but there is not a lot of political will to approve growth and upgrade facilities, Valenzuela says. “The newest poultry facility was constructed about 7-10 years ago,” he says, “and not a lot of new operations are planned but we’re hopeful for growth. The quality of U.S. soybean meal tests well, says Valenzuela. “It’s ready to feed and higher in amino acids. U.S. quality of soybean meal is very good; you can see the difference. “And more poultry means more product moving through the port, so it’s a win-win.” Contact Aaron Putze at aputze@iasoybeans.com

Editor’s note: See the September Iowa Soybean Review for other stories related to this trade mission.

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 29

s it possible to know that the edamame salad you’re eating came from a specific farmer’s field in Iowa? Could we trace the evolution of a soybean planted in Iowa to the chicken, pork or beef dinner someone overseas might be enjoying? That’s the belief and hope of at least one company, some farmers and consumers interested in knowing where their food comes from and how it’s possible to connect physical commodities to the digital supply chain data.

Singer says his company welcomes the opportunity for soybean producers and all those within the supply chain to incorporate this technology as a way to help incentivize sustainable production, improve labeling, verify proof of claims and provide consumers with reassurance about their food's source and safety. With its Trailhead software, Index Biosystems will enable “supply chain digitization Making it work and provide reliable During the U.S. Soybean Research product identification.” Collaborative’s Soybean Research Forum Singer says BioTags and Think Tank in Indianapolis this sequences are safely summer, Index Biosystems’ David added to yeast solely Singer,showcased the company’s for traceability and BioTags technology. identification and do not Singer, the company’s co-founder and modify, add or delete any vice president of sales, says the prospect of existing genes in the yeast. BioTags would allow all interested parties The technology and its to follow the soybean pod “through the traceability advantages have entire supply chain — from the field to the been successful in oat and elevator to the end product.” wheat tests — in milled flour BioTags are microscopic barcodes and in a load of bread made made from baker’s yeast that preserve the from the wheat. identity of products. Singer says Index He says yeast production Biosystems is defining a new category techniques are well understood of traceability using that yeast to “create and easily scalable, agricultural supply chains that are allowing for efficient and measurable, verifiable and sustainable.” inexpensive production. Applying the BioTags directly to With yeast already a commonly the product via a spray, the company used product throughout the food system, connects product data that can be Index’s BioTags are designed for seamless detectable at any point in the supply chain. integration into production pipelines,

30 | OCTOBER 2023 | IASOYBEANS.COM

Is the future of soybean traceability nothing more than baker’s yeast and a barcode? BY JEFF HUTTON

according to the company. “In comparison to naked DNA barcode solutions, the structural features and inherent natural defenses of the yeast cell serve as an amazing protective capsule for our identifiers," Singer says. The result is a safe, easily scalable, reliable and uniquely traceable product.” The website also notes that BioTags can be added, mixed, sprayed or affixed to any product that can benefit from end-to-end supply chain biological traceability and identification. Unique BioTags can even be applied at multiple nodes along a supply chain or within subsections of a lot or component of a product. This flexibility of spatial and temporal granularity of where and when BioTags can be incorporated lets the BioTag tell the story of a product’s origin and journey from beginning to end.

Opportunity knocks Think Tank participant and Iowa Soybean Association Past President Robb Ewoldt from Davenport says he’s excited about the prospect of this new technology.

“I think the technology is really interesting,” he says. “It gives farmers the potential to sell directly to the end user.” For example, if an end user overseas wants just five shipping containers of a particular soybean, Ewoldt could send those marked beans down the Mississippi River and to its final destination, with all members of the supply chain able to follow its path from field to dinner plate. “The full concept to me is just amazing,” says Aimee Bissell, a newlyelected ISA At-large director from Bedford. But there may well be challenges, yet to be seen, with this technology. Take comingled beans, for example. If tagged beans from Farm A should mix with non-tagged beans from Farm B in a co-op bin, will the baker’s yeast barcode mesh or rub off? “How do you know whose beans are whose?” she asks. Bissell wonders if the technology is consumer-driven or company-driven? Will it increase consumer trust? “Regardless, we need to still look at what the consumer wants,” she says. Ewoldt hopes the technology to tag beans, corn and other products, should it be implemented safely, will provide more value to farmers and their practices. “I think there’s going to be more benefits to the soybean farmer to have this technology available,” he says. “There are great opportunities here.” Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com

IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 31

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Iowa Soybean Review | October 2023

Articles inside

Congratulations to our Drone Winner!

Tag, You're It!

Pressure Ports

Sabor, USA!

Management of Soybean Gall Midge in Iowa

Experiencing Iowa's Soybean Industry

Theft in the Fields

Transparency and Traceability

Iowa Soybean Farmers Elect New Leadership

Rural Route 2

Ditching Labels