For 60 years, the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) has partnered with Iowa State University (ISU) to address production challenges that limit soybean yield and producer profitability.
Since its founding in 1964, ISA has invested nearly $68 million in checkoff funding for basic and applied research conducted at Iowa State University.
The partnership between ISA and ISU has worked to share research results and recommendations to help Iowa soybean farmers increase yields through better disease, insect and weed management.
Today, ISA and ISU continue their long-standing partnership through the Iowa Soybean Research Center in ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, which celebrates 10 years of innovative soybean research to meet the needs of farmers.
Executive Committee
President Suzanne Shirbroun, Farmersburg | D3
President-Elect
Brent Swart, Spencer | D1
Secretary
Tom Adam, Harper | D9
Treasurer
Jeff Frank, Lake View | D4
At-Large Director
Brent Renner, Klemme | D2
Board of Directors
Paul Kassel, Spencer | D1
April Hemmes, Hampton | D2
Sam Showalter, Hampton | D2
Rick Juchems, Plainfield | D3
Marty Danzer, Carroll | D4
Corey Goodhue, Carlisle | D5
Dave Struthers, Collins | D5
Robb Ewoldt, Davenport | D6
Dave Walton, Wilton | D6
Scot Bailey, Anita | D7
Lee Brooke, Clarinda | D7
Warren Bachman, Osceola | D8
Randy Miller, Lacona | D8
Pat Swanson, Ottumwa | D9
Tim Bardole, Rippey | At-Large
Aimee Bissell, Bedford | At-Large
Sharon Chism, Huxley | At-Large
American Soybean Association Board of Directors
Tom Adam, Harper
Steph Essick, Dickens
Morey Hill, Madrid
Randy Miller, Lacona
Pat Swanson, Ottumwa
Dave Walton, Wilton
United Soybean Board of Directors
Tim Bardole, Rippey
Robb Ewoldt, Davenport
April Hemmes, Hampton
Brent Renner, Klemme
Staff Credits
Bethany Baratta | Editor
Aaron Putze, APR | CO of Brand Mgmt and Engagement
Susan Langman | Creative Design Coordinator
Joclyn Bushman | Multimedia Specialist
Jeff Hutton | Senior Writer
Kriss Nelson | Staff Writer
Joseph Hopper | Communications Specialist
Brock Johnston | Public Relations Manager
FARMER FOCUSED | DRIVEN TO DELIVER
ISA VISION
We advance the long-term competitiveness of Iowa soybean farmers.
ISA MISSION
Driven to deliver opportunities for Iowa soybean farmers to thrive.
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
August 2024 | Vol. 37, No. 11
8
Meet the Team
The Iowa Soybean Association research agronomy team carries out on-farm research trials and shares the results with soybean farmers.
16
Stacking Benefits
What’s behind the 850% increase in cover crop acres in Iowa?
20
Covering Ground
Soy-based turf is driving demand and consumer recreation opportunities.
30
The Power of the Bean
It’s food and fuel, and in Iowa, soybeans are also an economic powerhouse.
On the cover:
The Iowa Soybean Association’s dedicated research agronomy team includes: Alexander Litvin, Ph.D., research agronomy lead (pictured far left), Craig Woods, research technician (pictured far right), and research agronomists Mikaela Connelly, Lucas De Bruin, Alex Schaffer, Drew Clemmensen and Shane Beck. Read more about this team, how they help farmers and trial opportunities starting on Page 8.
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.
All Things Soy
As a kid growing up in Iowa in the 1960s and ’70s, the closest I ever came to soybeans was when I “walked” them. This was prior to the advent of herbicide resistant varieties. Despite the time and attention given to the task, I had absolutely no idea why soybeans were being grown or how the harvested soybeans would be used.
I also grew up working in family-owned grocery stores in rural Iowa, which sold bottled “vegetable oil.” I did so despite having no clue that the product was soybean oil. Same story cutting meat in my early teen years. I did the work but had no idea that soybean meal was a key ingredient in chicken and pig feed.
I also remember working on a presidential campaign in the late ’80s and taking a congressman from California around the state as a surrogate for my preferred candidate. One day, while cruising from one campaign stop to the next, I was asked to pull over so the congressman could
Executive Insights
Kirk Leeds, ISA Chief Executive Officer kleeds@iasoybeans.com
step into a soybean field. He was a member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee but had never seen a soybean field. He had “always wondered” what a soybean plant looked like and, like me, had no idea the ultimate use of harvested soybeans.
So, with this background and “experience,” it made perfect sense that I went to work for soybean farmers in 1989!
Thirty-five years later, I look back and appreciate that I have had a front row seat to the growth of the U.S. and global soybean industries and the incredible array of new products being made from the commodity. Soybeans remain one of the most preferred vegetable oils in the food industry while meal serves as a vital feed ingredient for poultry and livestock producers. These are the two most important uses for soybeans and will remain so for the near future.
We will continue to see increasing amounts of soybean oil used to produce biodiesel and
renewable diesel and potentially sustainable aviation fuel. With increased demand for soybean oil to meet biofuels demand, we’ll also have the challenge of finding a home for more soybean meal (for domestic use and export). Even with the growth in soy production in South America, we can’t forget that more than 50% of the U.S. soybean crop is exported. At the same time we’re seeing an explosion in the number of ways to use or incorporate soybeans into a host of new products. Examples include tires, asphalt and tennis shoes. In this issue, you’ll read about efforts to increase demand for soy-based artificial turf. It’s made from soybean oil that replaces 60% of the petroleum products used in traditional synthetic lawns.
Enjoy reading this month’s magazine and stay tuned as we continue to use farmer’s checkoff dollars to expand soybean demand and explore all things soy.
Through the soy checkoff, U.S. soybean farmers are investing in new production practices to continuously improve their sustainability while protecting the air, water and soil for generations to come.
WISHH leverages partnerships for U.S. Soy to help meet the protein needs of 8 billion consumers
Sea of Soy
There’s a sea of green all around me. The space between the houses near our home provides a window into the soybean field just beyond our neighborhood.
Editor’s Note by Bethany Baratta bbaratta@iasoybeans.com
We’ve been watching numerous fields all spring and summer. First, wondering what might be planted in the fields around us. Then, watching the planting progress. We’ve seen the fluctuating field conditions and occasional ponding (though no tornado damage or extreme flooding as other parts of the state have seen).
As we continue the summer lessons of soy, we wonder where the growing soy might end up after it’s harvested. Will it be fed to livestock nearby? Will it make its way around the world? Will it be in the box of crayons we’ll inevitably buy before the next school year expires?
This month, we celebrate Soybean Month in Iowa. It’s an opportunity to bring attention to the crop responsible for feeding and fueling so many throughout the world. It’s a nod to farmers in this state whose strength and resiliency isn’t defined by one month per year — but several.
Perhaps Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said it best when reflecting on last year’s harvest. At 58 bushels per acre and 573 million bushels of production, the
2023 soybean crop ranked as the fourth highest yield and third highest production in Iowa history, contributing to the country’s fourth highest yield and seventh largest soybean crop ever.
“Even with all the weather challenges last year, Iowa remained a production powerhouse and that’s a testament to the assistance of timely rains, the resiliency of Iowa farmers, and continuous improvements in genetics, traits, equipment, technology, production methods and many other innovations.”
No doubt there’s been challenges with this year’s crop. We’ve seen tornadoes, flooding, early emergence of pests and economic conditions that haven’t been favorable for farmers. And yet, the people who rely on soy from Iowa and the U.S. will still get the high quality soy they’ve come to favor. The sea of green around me thinks of my family back home raising crops and all of you who work and worry about the weather and the price forecasts. I celebrate you this month — Soybean Month in Iowa — and every month. Thank you.
Take care,
Introducing:the ISA Research Agronomy Team
Helping Iowa soybean farmers advance toward their productivity, profitability and sustainability goals
BY KRISS NELSON
How can farmers enhance productivity, efficiency and profitability in the field while also ensuring sustainability for the future?
Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI) research agronomists conduct coordinated, statewide on-farm trials that generate valuable insights that are shared with Iowa farmers. They are also available as trusted, unbiased advisors to farmers.
“We aim to be a valuable resource for farmers to experiment with new ideas and seek our advice. We want to be an additional tool in the farmer’s decisionmaking process, helping them determine if a particular practice is worth trying out or beneficial for their needs,” says Alex Litvin, Ph.D, ISA research agronomy lead.
Bring experience to the field
RCFI’s team of research agronomists has decades of combined experience, earned through various education and involvement in the agricultural industry.
Coming from various industries, such as manufacturing, farming, seed science, chemical application, controlled environment agriculture or breeding, these fields allow them to use their expertise and provide sound advice for farmers.
“Those who have worked in sales know the products currently on the market and know if they are worth trying,” says Litvin. “The academic focus in agronomy allows them to bring that master’s degree of what is going on out in the field and how to be good researchers and distill through the litany of information that exists and help farmers.”
The ISA research agronomy team comes together as a group to tackle issues, leveraging their diverse perspectives to develop effective solutions.
“Our team is here to make farmers' lives better,” says Litvin. “We focus on projects that are geared toward that idea on how to become more productive, profitable and sustainable.”
ALEX SCHAFFER
DREW CLEMMENSEN
LUCAS DE BRUIN
SHANE BECK
Meet the ISA Research Agronomists
SHANE BECK
What experience do you bring as a research agronomist?
My previous experience in seed and herbicide research, focusing on corn and soybeans, has provided me with a strong background in conducting research and a deep understanding of the role herbicides play in a farmer’s operation.
What can you offer Iowa soybean farmers?
I can offer an independent knowledge base. Farmers can rely on my opinions and not worry I am trying to sell them a product or practice.
I welcome questions or feedback from farmers. If I do not have the answer, I can help find it. I want to hear their thoughts on designing on-farm research trials, which I can assist with and help them analyze the data.
What are some goals you would like to achieve in your district?
I would like to engage more farmers with on-farm research and earn their trust to be the advisor they can call on with questions or needs. If they have any pains in their operation and they would like to do a trial, we can talk that over and get it set up.
DREW
CLEMMENSEN
What experience do you bring as a research agronomist?
My years of experience have helped me learn the value of research and different viewpoints outside of a sales role. I can be unbiased with my thoughts, viewpoints and recommendations. That all becomes relevant when I put myself in the farmer’s shoes and try to make a decision like I have invested a portion into that crop. My advice does not attempt to sell something; it is an honest evaluation.
What can you offer Iowa soybean farmers?
I can provide agronomic advice not only at a local level within my district but also from a broader perspective that isn’t limited to a specific geographic area or a small number of trials. My insights are based on information and data from trials conducted across multiple locations.
What are some goals you would like to achieve in your district?
I would like to have a more visible presence and be more engaged with the farmers in my area. I want to reach out to more farmers across my territory and get them involved in the research we are conducting. They may not participate in the trials themselves, but they can use the information to make their own decisions.
Meet the ISA Research Agronomists
LUCAS DE BRUIN MIKAELA CONNELLY
What experience do you bring as a research agronomist?
I recently graduated from Kansas State with a master’s in agronomy. Throughout that period, I gained experience in diverse cropping systems, with my thesis focusing on conservation tillage.
What can you offer Iowa soybean farmers?
If farmers are interested in learning more about switching from conventional tillage to no-till or strip-till, I can assist them with that. The same goes for cover crops. If there is a practice or research trial they would like to implement, or if they have a willingness to try new things, I am here to help.
What are some goals you would like to achieve in your district?
With livestock production being prominent in my region, I’m interested in working with farmers to integrate grazing cover crops. I aim to further boost engagement with farmers.
What experience do you bring as a research agronomist?
Before joining ISA, I served as a crop specialist for a local cooperative. I have experience working with farmers on the retail ag side of the industry and am also a farmer. I strive to make logical decisions for my farmers and wouldn’t recommend anything I wouldn’t try on my farm.
What can you offer Iowa soybean farmers?
I am well experienced with raising cover crops and practicing no-till. If a farmer has questions on those conservation practices or is seeking other agronomic advice, I can help navigate through those questions. If I don’t have the answer, I will help find it. I use resources and expertise at ISA and other relationships I have built within the ag industry.
What are some goals you would like to achieve in your district?
I am working to get to know and engage with more farmers in my area to build trust as an advisor to them. My goal when I visit farmers is to help improve their farms and provide them with helpful answers.
Alex schaffer
What experience do you bring as a research agronomist?
My experience in studying small plots and seeds enables me to conduct trials with our ISA farmermembers and achieve tangible outcomes. I enjoy collaborating with farmers and appreciate the connections I have with them.
What can you offer Iowa soybean farmers?
I can provide unbiased data on products and practices, inputs and relevant, timely information to the farmers. The trial opportunities are something that can contribute to their bottom line to help them be more profitable and efficient.
What are some goals you would like to achieve in your district?
I would like to increase farmer engagement in my area and provide professional, agronomic unbiased advice and results by following our mission of being productive, profitable and sustainable.
Continued on Page 12.
For more information regarding ISA’s research agronomy program, contact Alex Litvin at 515-334-1044 or alitvin@iasoybeans.com.
“We love it when farmers voice their opinions and give us topics to research.”
Alex Litvin, Ph.D, ISA research agronomy lead
Engage with ISA through fall on-farm trials
The Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Research Center for Farming Innovation is recruiting for fall trials.
Iowa Nitrogen Initiative
This trial is a partnership between ISA and Iowa State University. Participants gain a better understanding of nitrogen management, resulting in improved ROI for operations. This trial entails placing blocks of defined nitrogen rates between zero to 300 pounds per acre. Farmers opting to commit to a zerorate treatment receive monetary compensation.
Fertilizer ahead of soybeans
RCFI is starting a new trial studying the addition of fertilizer to soybeans.
“Normally, there is not much focus on adding fertilizer to soybeans. We have been so focused on bringing yields up in other areas, we are interested in seeing the effects of a fertilizer program on soybeans,” says Alex Litvin, Ph.D, ISA research agronomy lead.
Manure management
Manure is a byproduct of Iowa agriculture and a sustainable source for nitrogen if properly applied. This trial explores the precise application of manure to meet nutrient needs through sensorbased application.
Long-term cover crop trials
Implementing a cover crop program annually helps improve soil health and sustainability while providing farmers a way to familiarize themselves with and become successful in using cover crops.
This project provides either seeds and a payment of $500 or reimburses farmers in the form of a larger payment of $1,500 to assist in research into adoption and successful implementation.
Improved cropping systems
This trial takes a system approach to using blended cover crop species and management to improve soil health and crop productivity through increased water-holding capacity and nitrogen sequestration. Traditionally, Iowa farmers only use cereal rye as a cover crop. In this project, we explore using a blend of cover crops, with cereal rye making up about half of the total cover crop for soybean and being completely removed from the blend for corn years. Other cover crop species used in the blend include triticale, hairy vetch and camelina. Also evaluated is the use of nitrogen inhibitors. Two years of trial participation are required; farmers are compensated for their involvement.
Relay cropping
Relay cropping involves seeding soybeans early in the growing season, while the cereal rye is still in the vegetative growth stages. The soybeans grow with the rye, and when the rye reaches maturity, it is harvested above the canopy of soybeans. The soybeans then proceed to maturity, generating twograin crops.
The replicated strip trials aim to learn enough about relay crop planting to lay the groundwork for widespread adoption for Iowa farmers.
Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com
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Stacking Benefits for Cover Crop Success
Evan Brehm ISA Conservation Agronomist ebrehm@iasoybeans.com
Cover crops are on the rise in Iowa. In 2014, approximately 400,000 acres of cover crops were planted. One decade later, Iowa farmers planted approximately 3.8 million acres of cover crops. What is with the 850% increase in 10 years? Cost share programs and long-term agronomic benefits. Cost share programs have intensified financial incentives from various public and private organizations over the years. Farmers can stack some of these programs together, depending on funding source, which strengthens farm profitability.
While financial incentives are one piece of the puzzle, another critical piece is agronomic and environmental benefits. Here are four examples:
• Reducing Soil Erosion: Planting a cover crop protects the soil from wind and water erosion. Iowa has the potential to lose 5 tons of topsoil per acre per year. Cover crops, depending on height, reduce soil erosion anywhere from 31-100%, according to the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program.
• Controlling Nutrient Runoff: As we work toward our goals of reducing nitrogen and phosphorus runoff from fields, cover crops have been shown to reduce both nutrients by 45%.
Robust water monitoring/sampling at the Iowa Soybean Association has proven this theory. The percentage of reduction varies with rainfall, soil type, fertilizer application type, height of the cover crop and cover crop species. Farmers and landowners are encouraged that cover crops will keep nutrients in place, in the field, where they are best used.
• Suppressing Weeds: Waterhemp and marestail are two of several herbicide-resistant weeds in
Iowa. Cover crops can shade out early emergence of winter annuals and, over time, reduce herbicide costs.
• Increasing Soil Organic Matter: The higher the percentage of organic matter, the greater fertilizer cycling and water holding capacity. Cover crops produce root exudates that build organic matter over time. Farmers who reduce their tillage and add cover crops note that the color of their soil changes as the organic matter increases in as short as a few years.
In Iowa, 90% of the cover crop acres contain cereal rye. It is the king cover crop because it is winter hardy, has a robust root system and is generally controlled well with glyphosate. Another common cover crop in Iowa are oats. Oats will winter kill, which is comforting for first time cover croppers or those concerned about control in the spring. Oats can be seeded at 60-70 lbs./acre.
Cover crop cocktails
These single species covers or multi-species mixtures can be planted anytime from Sept.1 through Nov. 1. Farmers should adhere to NRCS guidelines in their county; seeding rate requirements may vary if involved in a NRCS program.
Straight Grass:
Three options — cereal rye 60 lbs./acre, winter wheat 60 lbs./acre or oats 65 lbs./acre.
Notes: Cereal rye and winter wheat are winter hardy. Oats will winter kill unless conditions hinder fall growth and encourage spring germination depending on temperatures and moisture. Excellent erosion control and overall soil health benefits. These choices can be controlled by
glyphosate as a burndown prior to planting or as first herbicide pass followed by a post application.
Soil Saver:
Two options — cereal rye or winter wheat 50 lbs./ acre, radish 1 lb/acre, winter camelina 4 lbs./acre or annual rye 20 lbs./acre, radish 1 lb./acre, winter camelina 4 lbs./acre.
Notes: Winter hardy grasses provide months of armor for the soil. Radish will bust compaction layers in no-till systems. Winter camelina draws up phosphorus locked in soil and is an over wintering brassica species.
Annual rye germinates well in a drought year and may be a better option for flying on with a drone due to weight restrictions. Annual rye can winter kill depending on snow coverage in the winter. Terminate with herbicide early in the spring before flowering when leaves become hard to penetrate.
Nitrogen Fixer:
Cereal rye or winter wheat 45 lbs./acre, hairy vetch or red clover 10 lbs./acre, radish 1 lb./acre.
Notes: Geared toward a subsequent crop of corn, this cocktail can fix nitrogen for corn and farmers can conduct soil testing to determine nitrogen availability to the corn crop. The Late-Spring Soil Nitrate Test can be used to determine available nitrogen for a corn crop and guide decisions on in-season nitrogen applications. Nitrogen is fixed by legumes like hairy vetch and red clover. Depending on growing conditions and the timing of termination, nitrogen fixation can exceed 100 pounds, according to Michigan State University.
Learn more about cost share opportunities and cover crop mixtures by reaching out to the Iowa Soybean Association’s Conservation Agronomist network.
Corn planted with a standing cover crop of cereal rye. Cereal rye drilled at 60 lbs./acre. In furrow insecticide was used to control potential armyworms. Cereal rye terminated with 36 ounces of glyphosate only on first pass. Followed by a post herbicide application.
Winter camelina drilled at 4 lbs./acre and cereal rye at 50 lbs./acre in fall of 2023. Soybeans will be the cash crop and the cover crop was terminated after planting.
Financial Incentive
To help cover the start-up costs of cover crops, Farmers for Soil Health o ers financial assistance of up to $50/acre over a three-year period.
Exclusive Marketplace
Enrollment in Farmers for Soil Health provides access to an exclusive future marketplace connecting farmers to top-tier supply chain partners that are focused on sustainability.
Technical Advisor
Each state has dedicated on-theground technical advisors to provide research-based information and educational resources to aid in the transition of your field.
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Soy-based turf is driving soybean demand and consumer recreation opportunities
B Y BROCK JOHNSTON
Agrowing preference for soybean oil is allowing Sport Group, the world’s largest sports surface business, to offer more durable and environmentally friendly products to customers.
The parent company, which oversees popular brands like SYNLawn, AstroTurf, Polytan and more, is also driving soybean demand for a unique partner — U.S. farmers.
SYNLawn artificial grass is made with a soy-based backing called EnviroLoc™ which uses soy-based polyol technology developed with support from the soybean checkoff. Based on UL third-party verification, soybean oil displaces 60% of the petroleum-based polyurethane in conventional artificial grass products.
Due to the product’s biobased backing, it can help buyers increase purchases of biobased products which ultimately support U.S. farmers through increased demand. The artificial grass also helps buyers reduce water consumption and eliminate costs for mowing, fertilizing and weeding.
“We’re the only company that uses soy backing as part of our commitment to sustainable manufacturing,” says Rob Dant, senior director of global sales at SYNLawn.
Using soybean oil and other plant-based renewable materials also qualifies multiple SYNLawn products for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Certified Biobased Product label. By displacing petroleum, biobased products reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with a changing climate.
“Soy continues to be a huge part of the equation due to its reliability and price point compared to other natural oils,” adds Dant.
The product is also 100% recyclable and made in America.
New products, new opportunities
The increased production of renewable, biobased products contributes to the growth and development of the nation’s bioeconomy — where society today turns to agriculture for sustainable sources of fuel, energy and products.
“More research and business leaders are realizing how soy can improve the performance and sustainability of products,” says Randy Miller, past president of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and farmer from Lacona.
There are more than 1,000 different soy-based products available on the market today.
Miller, who currently helps guide soy checkoff investments on the ISA Board of Directors, says that farmer-led efforts are partially responsible for many of the recent biobased products to hit the market.
“Increased soybean demand is a win for farmers, and the research behind these new products is really a win for every consumer,” Miller says.
According to a report the USDA released in March 2024, biobased products contributed $489 billion to the U.S. economy in 2021 — a 5% increase from the year prior. The segment also supported, directly and indirectly, 3.94 million jobs across the country. The reduction of fossil fuels and associated GHG emissions by using biobased products was equivalent to preventing 5.4 million metric tons of carbon dioxide in 2021, the report estimates.
While the benefits are far-reaching, the impact of SYNLawn and other biobased products can be seen right here in Iowa.
Paws & Pints, a dog park and restaurant nestled in the heart of Des Moines, opened its doors in September 2022. The facility boasts a sprawling 25,000 sq. ft. indoor and
outdoor dog yard using SYNLawn’s synthetic grass product — making it the first of its kind in Iowa.
Today, the turf’s sanitized antimicrobial technology and durable soy-backing continues to provide a safe and clean environment for guests and pets at one of the city’s most popular attractions.
“A smart business person doesn’t rely on one specific customer for their product,” says Miller. “As farmers, we need to continue finding new uses for our product to be successful. That’s why ISA keeps prioritizing [soy] checkoff dollars toward research and development, so farmers can tap into these new markets.”
Front row seat
In March, U.S. soybean farmer-leaders had the opportunity to visit Sport Group’s North American manufacturing facility in Dalton, Ga., where they spoke with company leadership about soy’s growing role in their products.
There, farmers saw firsthand how the artificial turf product was assembled and how soybean oil fit into the manufacturing process of artificial grass products.
“Being able to visit with buyers and put a face to our product makes a huge difference,” says Miller. “We’re excited
to see how SYNLawn and other companies are looking to soybeans as a way to make better products for people.”
SYNLawn has installed more than 82 million square feet of U.S. soy-backed artificial grass across 200,000 installations in the U.S. and 19 additional countries since 2008.
Among the company’s most notable projects made possible by soy include New York City parks, hotels on the Las Vegas Strip and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Cape Canaveral, Fla., which recently installed soy-based turf in the rocket launch viewing area.
In recent years, the company also announced it will add more soy than ever in their products — increasing its soy usage by 10%.
And with soy’s reliability and versatility, the possibilities are endless.
To learn more about SYNLawn and retail information, visit synlawn.com.
Contact Brock Johnston at bjohnston@iasoybeans.com
This featured story is for information only. The Iowa Soybean Association does not endorse, promote or make any representations regarding any specific suppliers mentioned herein.
A look inside the Dalton, Ga., facility that uses soybean oil to create artificial grass products.
Photos by Brock Johnston
RESEARCHING A BETTER BEAN
Whether you’re dealing with drought, flood, heat or other climate-related stress, the soy checkoff is working behind the scenes to diversify U.S. soybean genetics and increase stress tolerance. We’re looking inside the bean, beyond the bushel and around the world to keep preference for U.S. soy strong. And it’s helping make a valuable impact for soybean farmers like you.
See more ways the soy checkoff is maximizing profit opportunities for soybean farmers at unitedsoybean.org
Soy Leaders Network demonstrates the importance of insight
BY JEFF HUTTON
Kellie Lasack is a wife and mother, owns her own marketing business and when she can, helps with both her husband’s family farm and her father’s cattle operation. For some, that’s plenty.
But for Lasack, knowledge is power and that’s why she’s a part of Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Soy Leaders Network (SLN). Being part of the SLN is helping her grow her knowledge base, which in turn allows her to provide more insight into work on the farm.
Down on the farm
“I grew up on a farm with cattle, chickens, pigs and row crops,” says Lasack, who resides near Oxford Junction. “It’s always been a part of my life to be involved on the farm.”
After high school, Lasack moved on to college where she earned a degree in ag communications. She continued to help her father, Dave Gregorich, with his farm, and then met her husband, Joel, an ag loan officer, who raises crops and Angus cattle with his family.
“I have a lot going on otherwise, but I still like to know what’s going on in the field — when we are spraying, what fertilizers we are putting down, what we are seeding,” she says.
Soybeans haven’t always been an emphasis for her husband or father, but Lasack says that is slowly changing.
“I’m very involved in the decisions that we make on our farm and my husband is very open with what I’m interested in,” she says. “Last year was the first year that we put soybeans down on our own farm.
Kellie Lasack on her family farm near Oxford Junction.
“It was exciting to plant over 70 acres of soybeans. Corn on corn is not ideal.”
This year, that particular field is planted to corn, but with the acquisition of another farm, the Lasacks have planted 50 acres of soybeans in 2024.
They also plant alfalfa, which doubles as a cover crop and feed for their cattle.
“Cover crops are something I’m very passionate about,” she says.
Empowering efforts
Decisions involving soybeans and cover crops come from research and finding out the ins and outs of production. That’s why SLN appeals to Lasack.
“For me, it’s about networking,” she says. “I’m excited to meet other people within the soybean industry, within Iowa, who are as willing and as excited as I am to learn more.
“I love to be educated and with SLN, I feel like it’s giving me so much more information — not just about planting soybeans, but exports, marketing and other areas.”
She shares that information with her family and others who aren’t as familiar with soybean production.
“My dad will tell you he’s not really a row crops guy, he’s more interested in cattle,” she says. “But this allows me to be a part of the farming decisions, to be aware of what’s going on and to share what I learn.”
It also takes the “sting out of not being able to out there in the field” with her family, she says.
“I can’t do it all, but with the SLN, it makes you feel good, makes you feel better about your operation and what you’re doing,” she says. “It’s just empowering, and the networking is incredible. We live in Iowa and we have a lot of soybeans.
I travel a lot and I have clients; I really want to tell people more about soybeans and be a powerhouse of knowledge.”
SLN benefits
SLN was designed for members like Lasack in mind.
“We recognize that our farmer members want to engage with us and stay up to date on industry news, but they may not have the time to commit to ISA’s programs and events,” says Julia Brenizer, an ISA producer services coordinator. “SLN members can simply engage with ISA when it works for them. The SLN has been a great place for the farmer engaging with ISA for the first time, the farmer who has completed several ISA programs and needs to slow down for a bit to focus on their farm and their family, and for the farmer who has served on the ISA Board of Directors and now simply wants to stay informed and connected.”
SLN members receive information to stay up to date on what ISA is doing and what is happening in the soybean industry.
Many SLN opportunities are virtual like the monthly e-newsletter and quarterly educational webinars. Timely information is offered like planting and harvest updates from fellow farmers, invitations to upcoming events, agronomy updates, policy updates and market outlooks.
The SLN also has casual in-person meet-ups each summer and allows members the chance to discuss struggles, ideas and ask questions to other farmers in their district.
Any ISA farmer member is eligible to join the SLN. Go to iasoybeans.com/programs/soy-leaders-network.
Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com
"With the SLN, it makes you feel good , makes you feel better about your operation and what you’re doing. It’s just empowering, and the networking is incredible."
Kellie Lasack, SLN member
BY KRISS NELSON
During his freshman year of college, Jack Opheim stepped out of the classroom for an opportunity to expand upon his agricultural studies.
Opheim was a 2023/2024 Iowa Soybean Association Soy Squad member.
“Soy Squad is a unique opportunity for college-aged students interested in or studying agriculture to plug into a commodity organization, specifically the Iowa Soybean Association,” says Julia Brenizer, Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) Producer Services coordinator and manager of Soy Squad. “They have the chance to learn about the Iowa Soybean Association, the soy checkoff and how checkoff dollars are invested to benefit farmers.”
Opheim, from Humboldt, is attending Iowa Central Community College. He plans to attend Iowa State University to finish his degree in ag business.
“I saw the opportunity to apply for Soy Squad and thought it would be a good addition to my resume and help me gain some experience in the ag industry outside of college,” says Opheim.
This year’s Soy Squad met for three, two-day sessions throughout the school year.
In November, the students were introduced to the ISA and the soybean checkoff program.
During the session, students learned about the specific efforts of ISA. This included information about on-farm research trials, ISA’s involvement in the renewable fuels industry, the organization of various programs and meetings, and how ISA communicates with farmers.
ISA organized an etiquette dinner to teach students professional presentation skills, including job interview etiquette.
The first session ended with a Bayer Crop Science Research Facility tour in Ankeny.
For the second session, students joined other ISA members at the ISA’s Farm Forward event in Des Moines. They also attended ISA’s legislative reception and met several Iowa legislators. The next day, they sat down with current and past ISA directors during a leadership breakfast.
Jack Opheim gains insight through Soy Squad
Jack Opheim on his family farm near Humboldt.
“The directors shared their experiences on the ISA board and the tips that have helped shape their leadership skills,” says Brenizer.
The group toured the Iowa Capitol and met Grant Menke, the Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. They also learned about the Iowa Soybean Association’s policy initiatives from ISA Chief Officer of Demand and Advocacy Matt Herman.
The last meeting of the Soy Squad group included a stop on a farm, learning about an ISA trial involving water drainage recycling. The visit demonstrated the value of being involved in ISA trials, which provide real results back to farmers. The group also visited Ag Leader Technology in Ames and John Deere Des Moines Works in Ankeny.
Soybean farmers don’t just grow soy for the beans, they also grow feed and fuel. During a discussion with ISA Senior Director of Operations Easton Kuboushek, participants learned about the opportunity for soy in fish diets through the Soy Aquaculture Alliance. Kuboushek also shared his experience of being a Nuffield International Farmer Scholar.
ISA organized a workshop that gave the students tips and techniques for communicating effectively during job interviews, internships and in professional settings.
“Giving students the opportunities to personally and professionally grow is an important piece of the Soy Squad program,” says Brenizer.
Afterward, the group toured Syngenta’s Parent Seed Production Facility in Slater. The day concluded with a discussion about grain transportation with Soy Transportation Coalition Executive Director Mike Steenhoek.
“I was impressed. It was a great overall experience,” says Opheim. “All three sessions were well-organized, well-thought out and featured real-world subjects. It was interesting to gain more insight into agriculture and how it connects to the soybean industry.”
He appreciated the tours, activities and the opportunity to learn about how the Iowa Soybean Association operates. He also gained a better understanding of the checkoff system, the inner workings of the association and how they all work together to serve farmers, and various components of the soybean industry.
As a member of Soy Squad, Opheim found value in networking — both with other students and ag industry professionals.
“I have kept in touch with quite a few fellow Soy Squad members,” he says. “We really bonded. It was a great group.”
Opheim encourages others to apply.
“It’s a lot of fun; I one hundred percent recommend it,” Opheim says. “You’ll get to meet new people and interact with employees at the Iowa Soybean Association. In each session, you learn about different aspects of the industry that will have a significant impact on you. It will strengthen your understanding of what agriculture is.”
Soy Squad was Opheim’s first step in engaging with ISA.
“I can see myself working with the association in some capacity someday,” he says. “I want to be able to do my share and help out with an organization that has such an impact on the industry, helping farmers and agribusinesses.”
The Soy Squad program accepts applications from individuals currently enrolled in a two or four-year college or university and pursuing a major in agriculture or a related field. Young agriculture professionals between the ages of 18 and 22 are also welcome to apply. Students must be able to attend the scheduled meetings.
For more information, contact Julia Brenizer at jbrenizer@iasoybeans.com or 815-878-5622. You can also visit the Iowa Soybean Association’s Soy Squad webpage at iasoybeans.com/programs/soy-squad.
Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com
Members of the ISA Soy Squad took part in meetings, tours and networking opportunities to broaden their understanding of the soybean industry.
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Soybean economics goes well beyond the field
BY JEFF HUTTON
From multiple applications and uses, the soybean is a juggernaut; food, fuel, fiber — this little bean is powerful.
But beyond the bean’s usefulness is the impact it has on the economy. In Iowa, that’s worth a lot.
Tales of success
Ask those in the know and they’ll tell you the economic influence soybeans has goes well beyond the farm field.
“The approximately 600 million bushels of soybeans harvested annually in Iowa makes our state a national leader in production and those soybeans are used to make hundreds of products enjoyed by consumers all over the globe,” says Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig. “Whether it’s feed for livestock, biofuels for transportation, oil for cooking, or even biopolymers for asphalt, Iowa soybeans and the diverse and innovative products made from them are essential to the continued strength of Iowa’s economy.”
Iowa Soybean Association President-elect Brent Swart agrees.
“Soybeans provide a valuable resource for the entire state and obviously, jobs and opportunities in rural Iowa, elevators, coops, seed companies, crushers and more,” he says. “There are so many uses for soybeans — and it’s not just oil and animal feed. Soybeans provide jobs and resources in the state. It’s all interconnected.”
Fellow ISA board members and producers are in lockstep with Swart.
“Soybeans are critical to the Iowa economy,” says ISA District 2 Director
33,870 soy-related jobs in Iowa in overall Iowa revenue $17 B
Sam Showalter. “I like to say that agriculture as a whole is the backbone of the Iowa economy and soybeans play a crucial role in that. With an annual crop that exceeds $4 billion in value, upon selling their crop, farmers then spend that money in their local communities.”
“Iowa soybean production is very important to the Iowa economy,” says ISA District 7 Director Lee Brooke. “Soybeans are a renewable source of fuel, feed, food, oil, fiber and other products. Because of these important usages of soybeans and their value to Iowa farmers, it boosts the Iowa economy. Soybean farmers contribute about $11.5 billion to the state’s economy each year. Many occupations in the state are directly related to agriculture and more recently the new soybean crush facilities for renewable diesel fuel.”
Interconnected
Brian Waddingham, executive director of the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, says soybeans are a critical piece of Iowa’s economic fortunes, including the connection between those beans and the state’s livestock industry.
“There is no doubt that soybeans have a major impact on Iowa’s economy. Animal agriculture is the No. 1 customer of soybean growers. Livestock and poultry add value to grain,” he says. “Livestock is bringing young families back to the farm and making local economies thrive. It puts people back in the seats at church, it helps the grocery store on main street stay open and puts
20,740 jobs in soybean production
$12.4 B
revenue in soybean production
children back in the schools. Increasing Iowa’s livestock and poultry numbers will increase the amount of soybeans needed to feed them — which is a good thing for both livestock farmers and soybean producers.”
The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers was created by farmers in 2004 with the mission of working with farmers to advocate and help implement on-farm best-management practices that assist Iowa’s farm families in raising livestock responsibly and successfully.
The Coalition is a partnership involving the ISA, Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Poultry Association, Iowa Turkey Federation and Midwest Dairy.
Waddingham points to the results of the 2024 Iowa Agriculture Economic Contribution Study which indicates that agriculture remains a vital part of Iowa’s economy. The study shows that more than 22% of Iowa’s total economic output came from Iowa agriculture in 2022:
• Nearly one in every five Iowans are employed in agriculture and ag-related industries, accounting for more than 385,000 jobs.
• The study also noted that crop farming and processing account for 99,271 jobs and $16.2 billion in value-added contributions to Iowa, up from $11.1 billion in 2017.
• More than 96% of farms in Iowa are family owned and operated with farm size averaging 345 acres.
Grant Kimberley, the executive director of the Iowa Biodiesel Board and ISA’s senior director of market development for demand and advocacy, knows soybeans continue to be an important part of the state’s overall economic future.
“Iowa is the largest producer of biodiesel in the country,” he says. “Biodiesel adds 13% to the net market value of soybeans. Iowa is also the largest soy crusher. We export meal and soybeans all over the world. Fifty percent or more of the U.S. soy grown is exported in one form or another. These two market segments, along with domestic livestock, add massive value to U.S. soybean farmers’ bottom line.”
2,120 jobs in soy biofuels production
Iowa is a key player when it comes to U.S. soybean exports, according to the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). Total U.S. soybean exports for 2023 were $28 billion. Of that, Iowa soybean exports totaled $3.9 billion.
In addition to the more than 40,000 soybean farms, IEDA says there are 1,147 soybean processing jobs and 425 biodiesel jobs within the state.
“Soybeans and soybean-related industries contribute approximately 7 percent to Iowa’s GDP,” says Debi Durham, executive director of IEDA and the Iowa Finance Authority. “From biofuels to animal feed, soybeans are integral to Iowa’s agriculture and manufacturing industries and ultimately the state’s overall economic prosperity.”
‘Pillar’ of strength
In the final analysis, Showalter says there’s isn’t enough attention paid to Iowa soybean production and its overall impact.
“Tens of thousands of people in Iowa work in agriculture in addition to the farmers. From retail service to equipment maintenance and manufacturing to crushing facilities and transportation; all of these provide countless, nice paying jobs for Iowa citizens,” he says. “Soybean production and processing are a pillar that help hold up the Iowa economy.”
Soybeans are a boon to Iowa communities, notes ISA At-Large Director Aimee Bissell.
“Soybean farmers in Iowa may only make up a small percentage of the population but their impact on the state’s economy is huge,” she says. “As an agricultural state, Iowa soybeans are a commodity that helps connect the rural and urban communities. This connection drives our economy in a positive direction.”
