January 2024
Achievement Unlocked: Farming
IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 1
Simply the best. For 45 years, one name has been synonymous with the best soybean genetics.
STINE HAS YIELD | stineseed.com
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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 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 Steph Essick, Dickens Wayne Fredericks, Osage Morey Hill, Madrid Jeff Jorgenson, Sidney Pat Swanson, Ottumwa Dave Walton, Wilton United Soybean Board of Directors Tim Bardole, Rippey Robb Ewoldt, Davenport Lindsay Greiner, Keota April Hemmes, Hampton Brent Renner, Klemme Staff Credits Editor | Bethany Baratta CO of Strategy & Brand Management | Aaron Putze, APR Creative Design Coordinator | Susan Langman Photographer | Joclyn Bushman Writer | Jeff Hutton Writer | Kriss Nelson Communications Specialist | Joseph Hopper Public Relations Manager | Brock Johnston 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
JANUARY 2024 | Vol. 36, No. 4
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Love of the Game Brothers fulf ill their farming dream in real life.
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Meet the President Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) President Suzanne Shirbroun delves into the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024.
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Policy Priorities
Water quality investment, fueling inf rastructure top ISA priority list in 2024.
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Farm Forward Position yourself at the foref ront of ag innovation and market strategy at an upcoming ISA conference.
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.
On the cover: Brothers Grant and Spencer Hilbert were once farmers on an online gaming platform only. Now, millions of subscribers watch the brothers use different kinds of controls to plant and harvest their crops via their YouTube channels. Read Love of the Game on page 8.
IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 3
Executive Insights Kirk Leeds, ISA Chief Executive Off icer kleeds@iasoybeans.com
Up to the Task
W
elcome to 2024. The start of a new year always makes me introspective. That’s increasingly so as the candles start to add up on the birthday cake. Time’s passage, after all, has a way of making us increasingly appreciative of it. Perhaps you can relate. I like to consider myself “a fixer.” When I see or hear a problem, I immediately seek to resolve it without (as my wife, Kim, sometimes reminds me) listening as much as I should. I’m also a studier. My parents were in the grocery business. Habits learned from working beside them during my formative years have stuck with me. To this day (and to Kim’s chagrin), I’ll walk the aisles of Fareway and Hy-Vee scanning the shelves, calculating linear feet of space occupied by a certain product and questioning why one is at eye level while another is relegated to the bottom shelf. With the arrival of a new year and Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) 60th anniversary, I’m also scanning the horizon of the soybean industry. My mind is occupied with the many issues impacting the lives of soybean farmers. Each issue I see (and want to fix) is accompanied by even more questions: • As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, how will the wars, unrest and growing anti-trade sentiment impact a soybean industry so dependent on exports? • How do we stay relevant to farmers as the evolution and speed of farming quicken? How do we remain ahead of the learning curve as tools, products and practices become increasingly sophisticated and available? • How do we increase soybean farmer awareness of the programs and services made available by their investment in the soybean checkoff? How do we deliver those programs more effectively?
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• How do we motivate more farmers to engage deeper in policy given the profound (and costly) impact it has on every farm and everything they do? • How do we balance the production of soybean meal and oil to meet the needs of customers while bringing added value and better prices to the farmer? • With ever-increasing volumes of data gathered and available, what role should ISA play to ensure that it works first and best for the farmers who generate it? • How will artificial intelligence impact ag and what are its application and potential for each farmer? • How do we continue to grow the number of ISA farmer members (checkoff) and Advocate members (non-checkoff policy) and engage with them at a deeper level? • How do we better integrate the knowledge and expertise of every ISA staff member and the programs and services they manage to speed up innovations and solutions benefiting farmers? The drafting of a new ISA strategic plan, to be completed and adopted by the board later this spring, will provide answers to some of these questions. But even more important is the input and involvement of you, the soybean farmer. For 60 years, your knowledge, experience, and guidance has enabled ISA to be respected and impactful here at home, around the country and throughout the world. Only through your continued input and involvement can we make the most of the new year and turn the above challenges into opportunities for the good of our farms, communities and customers. I’m confident we’re up to the task.
( Y OU ) 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.
Moving Soy Forward. Moving You Forward. ©2021 United Soybean Board [61133-1 7/21] IA
You Grow a Protein Powerhouse for Global Food Security Find out how ASA/WISHH’s soy checkoff-supported work with Edesia Nutrition led to the company developing a product that contains 25% more soy flour than earlier formulations. Adding more soy allows Edesia to reach more people throughout the world.
Trade. Development. Food Security.
Top photo courtesy of SNI Global
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Rural Route 2 Editor’s Note by Bethany Baratta bbaratta@iasoybeans.com
Take a Bow
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y son danced in the aisle as the “Wish” credits turned, his shoes seemingly bouncing off the sticky theatre floors thanks to the Icee, popcorn and M&Ms he just enjoyed. The closing credits crawled as we summarized the Disney movie. Waiting to leave the theatre until the last credit rolls is something I learned during a theatre appreciation course at North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC). My instructor, Tim Slaven, noted that each person listed in the credits of a film — no matter how big or small of a part — played a role in making the movie magic happen. It really is about the people who make it happen, isn’t it? The cast who carries out the mission and the vision? While doing research for upcoming stories surrounding the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) 60th year, I’ve learned a lot about the farmer leaders who have shaped this association. Take the Hecks, the Bardoles, and the Lathams, for example. Each family has been involved in the industry for generations. They’ve left their marks through biodiesel, global soy nutrition, seed technology and in countless other ways. There are hundreds, likely thousands, of others who have also helped make the soybean magic happen. Among them, eight farmers and leaders who recently accepted ISA Leadership Awards during ISA’s Winter Soy Summit. As their highlight reels played and award sponsors joined them on stage, it was evident why each of the recipients were
chosen. In their own ways, each recipient has advanced the industry through their participation in ISA activities and by showing up with and for farmers. We have an amazing cast in our state’s soybean industry. You won’t see their names in the end credits of a Disney movie; their impact is much more personal. They’re the volunteer leaders who step forward for board positions. The farmers who keep their head down and their chin up and raise a crop year over year. In this issue, you’ll learn more about ISA President Suzanne Shirbroun, the sixth generation on her family’s farm. Meet the Hilbert brothers, who are just getting started farming in real life. Celebrate our ISA Leadership Award winners — names you’ll recognize for their decades of work with and for ISA, and some names you might be seeing for the first time. Here’s to the state’s soybean cast members — no matter how big or small of a part — your work is admired and appreciated as we continue to grow into ISA’s 60th year. Take a bow. Enjoy the issue,
P.S. Many of you have reached out regarding my dad’s hospitalization. I’m happy to report that he is home, and we spent the holidays giving thanks for family, friends, healthcare workers and all those who aided his homecoming.
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Brothers start real-life farming career after virtual farming fame. BY JOSEPH HOPPER
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rant Hilbert can’t stop thinking about farming. Younger brother Spencer Hilbert enjoys farm work. They’re a natural fit for life on the farm in Iowa, but their careers began working with tractors made of virtual polygons displayed on computer screens. Grant and Spencer are both successful YouTubers, creating video content viewed by more than 2 million people across the world. Grant was the first to start a YouTube channel, The Squad, in 2014 while he was a high school student at Ankeny Centennial. Spencer would soon follow, with Spencer TV in 2017. Both channels have cultivated an audience who eagerly follow along with their adventures playing farming video games. “A buddy and I wanted to start a YouTube channel. He was like, ‘We should start a gaming channel,’” Grant says. “I had played games like Call of Duty but I wasn’t into games that much. I ended up saying, ‘Okay, let’s take a business approach and try really hard at YouTube and making this gaming stuff successful.’” After some trial and error, Grant found his audience after making his first few videos playing the video game Farming Simulator on YouTube. When a $600 check from YouTube arrived in the mailbox, the youngest brother realized it could be a business opportunity. “Farming Simulator” features a virtual world which is highly customizable, featuring all sorts of environments, 8 | JANUARY 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM
Grant Hilbert and Spencer Hilbert broke into a career as farmers through their skills making videos on YouTube. Today, they also share their experiences f rom the farm to the online video platform.
buildings, equipment and machinery. The end result is a blank canvas for a farmer’s wildest dreams to take place in-game. Both brothers agree: the farm-gaming audience always wants to see something new. “The hardest part is just thinking of ideas for the videos,” Grant says. “If I go out and just plant corn and harvest corn, it’s going to be super boring. You have to be creative.” With nearly 4,000 videos between Grant’s The Squad and Spencer’s Spencer TV YouTube channels, scenarios these virtual farmers face go beyond planting and harvesting. Videos range from restoring a classic pick-up truck found inside a barn to starting a secondary business like a lawn mowing service, and from becoming the world’s best backwards-driving grain cart driver to racing stock cars with farmer friends on a dirt track. The views and subscribers to the brothers’ channels continue to grow. It took The Squad two years to reach 15,000 subscribers, but after taking his YouTube work more seriously after entering Iowa State University, Grant grew his YouTube channel to 1 million subscribers by the time he graduated. Two years younger, Spencer wasn’t far behind with his own channel. Spencer says it was common to get a shocked reaction when talking about their YouTube careers, initially being more known for athletics in school than gaming.
“ Make every video a bit better than the last one. Really pay attention to when algorithms change on social media. Five years ago there was no such thing as YouTube shorts or TikTok. Ask, ‘what’s the next thing in the next year or two?’ That’s what I’d be looking out for.” Spencer Hilbert
“After class I’d come home, maybe go to the gym and then YouTube all night,” Grant says. “I did that for four years straight and it started taking off.” “We were always interested in investing and finances and different ways to make incomes,” Spencer says. “Once you go down those rabbit holes, then it’s just appealing to have little side hustles and keep it going.”
Serial entrepreneurs The two brothers grew up in Ankeny, one generation removed from their grandparents’ farm near Algona. After building up their successful channels, the next move was obvious to Grant: start their own farm. Purchasing some land and equipment, the brothers have relied on each other even more. With some help and support from their parents, family, friends and some neighbors, the childhood dream came true. “My dream has always been consistent: to be a full-time row crop farmer,” Grant says. “If I’m spending a majority of my day farming, that is a dream; no matter how much you’re making or how little.” He added, “Jumping into farming, there’s a lot you just have to experience. How do I set a planter? How do I set a combine? You just have to be in the environment.” 2023 marked the first year Spencer raised a crop in his own name, outside of a simulation. “I don’t think I would have done it if it wasn’t for Grant starting this,” Spencer says. The brothers’ YouTube footprint has grown to include them each having their own personal YouTube channels under their own names, highlighting activities on the
farm. Their passion for making videos is as strong as ever and so is the interest of online audiences wanting to watch farming content. “My mentality has always been when something exciting and good happens in life, go do something else; go create a harder challenge to offset it mentally,” Grant says. “Somehow that keeps turning out somewhat decent.” While each have their own approaches, Grant says he’s learned from his brother, too. “We both have channels documenting our real-life journey, and Spencer’s videos are better than mine,” Grant says. “He’ll take three months to film and then put it all into one video and get half a million views. He’s figured it out way better than I have.”
Full circle In November 2023, the brothers were eagerly awaiting the final stages of the next big project: the launch of Grant’s mobile video game, American Farming. The older Hilbert built a game development studio, SquadBuilt Inc., to create his dream farming video game armed with the experience of being a farming-gaming content creator. It’s a full circle moment for the brothers. “We’ve been making the videos for six or seven years and now we’ll be playing a game that Grant made,” Spencer says. “Our next job will be promoting this launch.” “That’s been a big weight on my shoulders,” says Grant. “Once American Farming gets launched and things get smooth, I’ll relax more and focus on farming.” Contact Joseph Hopper at jhopper@iasoybeans.com
YouTube Channels as of Nov. 2023 Grant Hilbert THE SQUAD | 1.47 million subscribers | 1,900 videos GRANT HILBERT | 157,000 subscribers | 72 videos
Spencer Hilbert SPENCER TV | 512,000 subscribers | 1,800 videos SPENCER HILBERT | 65,800 subscribers | 35 videos SPENCER TV SHORTS | 8,750 subscribers | 193 videos
Oldest brother, Grant Hilbert, stands against his John Deere tractor after the November harvest. IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 9
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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
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Suzanne Shirbroun leads the association into its 60th year. BY BETHANY BARATTA
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owa Soybean Association (ISA) President Suzanne Shirbroun is acutely aware of the challenges that persist for Iowa soybean farmers. A sixth generation farmer, Shirbroun is ushering in the seventh generation — her son Andrey — on her family’s farm near Farmersburg. But she’s also optimistic about leading the state’s 22-member volunteer board of directors tasked with allocating priorities and funding on behalf of soybean farmers. And she doesn’t take that responsibility lightly. “When I have to make a decision on the board, I step back and ask, ‘How is this going to help the Iowa soybean farmer? Am I going to be proud to go back to farmers and say this is what the Iowa Soybean Association is doing?’ That’s my litmus test.”
Educating audiences
Shirbroun on her farm near Farmersburg.
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Shirbroun says one of her top priorities as ISA president is to help consumers and policymakers understand what farmers are doing on their farm, and how policy shapes those decisions. As an Iowa Front 40 champion, Shirbroun uses her platform to talk about the family’s conservation efforts. After watching her grandfather begin terracing, Shirbroun knew conservation would be important in
Shirbroun explains life on the farm on their Facebook page, 2 Farmers & Their 3 Sprouts, referring to Suzanne, husband Joe and their three sons, Nate, Andrey and Tom.
the continuation of a family farm. She and her husband, Joe, kept and added terraces and currently practice no-till, conservation tillage, contour farming and implement waterways, cover crops, CRP and pollinator habitats. As a member of CommonGround, a program created to connect farm moms with urban moms, Shirbroun communicated about life on the farm, often reassuring other moms that farmers take care of the crops they grow and the animals they raise. As a mom raising three sons, she understands the role youth play in the future of agriculture. Suzanne and Joe annually coach and support a 4-H crop scouting team to deepen the participants’ interest in agronomy. The opportunity came full circle when their first team member, Nick Boehm, returned as a seed associate for the Shirbroun’s Pioneer seed agency.
Investing in research Soybeans are a relatively new crop to Shirbroun’s area in Clayton County in northeast Iowa. Known for its hills and dairy farms, Shirbroun remembers her parents adding soybeans to the family’s crop operation when she was a junior in high school.
She seeks expertise from ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation to understand how they could raise soybeans more efficiently. Investing in research efforts that further the industry is vital to Shirbroun, who studied agronomy and pest management at Iowa State University. She says her involvement on the North Central Soybean Research Program (NCSRP) board, the Iowa Soybean Research Center at Iowa State and the ISA board has demonstrated how combining efforts and funding between state and regional programs benefits the entire industry. “If we stop funding research, there’s going to be a hole in the pipeline and we’re going to airlock,” she says. “We need to keep the pipeline full of information and research that’s going to help our Iowa and Midwest soybean farmers.” Coordination also means a quicker response to researching pests and diseases which may be new to the area, like the orange gall midge. “If it wouldn’t have been for NCSRP and others putting money toward researching gall midge, we’d be a season behind in understanding and managing for the pest,” she says.
Building demand Locally, building demand for soybeans through biofuels — including sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel, and biodiesel — broadens the demand and use of Iowa-grown soybeans. Globally, that means additional soybean meal available. A trade mission to Chile in June 2023 demonstrated the value of being a high-quality supplier of U.S. soy. A trade mission to Myanmar connected how soybeans grown on farms like Suzanne’s are necessary to customers around the world. Meeting Noe Noe Lwin, a regional director for the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) for the Myanmar region, highlighted how Shirbroun’s checkoff dollars — and soy — were being used to educate farmers and feed millers in the region about how to use the product in aquaculture. “We need more markets,” Shirbroun says. “Price is always going to be a main topic, but we have to cultivate these relationships so when we are priced right, we can take advantage of that opportunity.” Contact Bethany Baratta at bbaratta@iasoybeans.com.
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POLICY 2024 ISA details its state priorities for this year. | BY JEFF HUTTON
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hat happens at the Iowa Statehouse in 2024 will directly impact the livelihoods of Iowa soybean farmers. That’s why the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and its farmer-members are working proactively to ensure farmer fortunes aren’t left to legislators alone to determine what’s best for those out in the field. ISA Senior Director of Public Affairs Michael Dolch lays out the top state priorities — determined by farmers — in 2024.
Restore grain indemnity fund Modernizing Iowa’s Grain Indemnity Fund alongside the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and other industry stakeholders continues to be a priority for the state’s 40,000 soybean farmers. The restoration of fees on grain sold to or deposited at Iowa-licensed grain dealers and warehouses was initiated in September 2023 following a series of dealer/warehouse bankruptcies. “Considering the fund was established in 1986 when the value of Iowa’s grain production was significantly less
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than today’s, ISA supports efforts to modernize the grain indemnity fund, which has proven incredibly successful at protecting Iowa farmers from catastrophic financial losses,” Dolch says. Currently, those who have grain stored in an IDALSlicensed warehouse and those who sell grain to a licensed dealer are covered by the fund. In a loss situation, the fund pays the claimant for 90% of the claimant’s loss up to a maximum of $300,000. Over the history of the fund, more than $19 million in claims have been approved to more than 1,500 grain producers, according to IDALS. The fund has generated approximately $9 million in assessed fees, which were last collected in 1989. Interest income, combined with the fund’s ability to recover losses from defunct grain dealers and warehouses, has provided additional revenue.
Educate on soybean checkoff Following the successful defense of an attack on commodity checkoff programs during the 2023 legislative session, ISA will continue efforts to protect the future of commodity checkoff programs that provide real, tangible
The interior of the Iowa State Capitol's golden dome. The Iowa Statehouse was dedicated in 1884 and completed in 1886.
value for farmers. A recent study shows a return of more than $12.34 for every farmer-invested dollar into the soybean checkoff. “Iowa farmers continue to see additional value because of their checkoff investments at the state level,” Dolch says. “From the nationally recognized research at ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation, to the increasing use of biodiesel that secures our status as the nation’s leading producer, Iowa farmers have seen their checkoff dollars generate a real and meaningful return on investment.”
Invest to scale conservation efforts ISA has long supported and championed conservation and water quality funding efforts at the statehouse, an effort Dolch says will continue in earnest in 2024. “The overarching goal remains the same — secure the long-term, dedicated investment necessary to scale up and accelerate the adoption and implementation of conservation practices across the state, practices that carry both soil carbon and water quality benefits,” he says.
Fund fueling infrastructure During the 2022 Iowa Legislative Session, ISA and Iowa Biodiesel Board helped pass the Iowa Biofuel Access Bill championed by Gov. Reynolds. “The legislation created some of the nation’s most robust production and consumption incentives for higher blends of biodiesel and ethanol,” Dolch says. The bill also made changes to the successful Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP), designed to assist retail operators of motor fuel dispensing sites or fueling stations to expand the use of renewable fuels across the state. With FY24 RFIP funds already depleted, ISA and IBB, Dolch says, are searching for opportunities to increase
funding for biodiesel applications to clear a growing project backlog.
Reduce property tax burden The Iowa House and Senate, with support from Gov. Reynolds, have considered and passed property tax reform and protection bills during each of the past two legislative sessions. “We not only applaud the legislature’s commitment to current property taxpayer protections, but also efforts to help slow the future growth of property taxes,” Dolch says. “We fully expect Governor Reynolds and lawmakers to take aim at tax relief for hardworking Iowans again during the 2024 legislative session. As proposals become known, ISA will support solutions that utilize property taxes for critical property-related services, as intended.”
Monitor ownership of Iowa farmland ISA will also continue to monitor legislative proposals related to foreign ownership of Iowa farmland. “As we consider our relationship with other countriesincluding China-in the context of food and agriculture, we must do so strategically with a firm understanding of our country’s national and agricultural interests,” Dolch says. “Farmers rely on strong international partnerships to keep operations productive and profitable. We must be deliberate and thoughtful in navigating issues that could have real consequences to these partnerships and U.S. farmers.” He added that soybean farmers support legislation that governs foreign ownership of farmland and business that protects U.S. farmers, consumers, national security and economic interests. However, these policies should not hinder soybean market access or industry research. Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com
1. Modernize Iowa's Grain Indemnity Fund. 2. Educate policymakers on the value of checkoff programs for Iowa farmers, including the soybean checkoff, which shows a return of more than $12.34 for every farmer-invested dollar. 3. Support continued (and increased) water quality investment to scale up and accelerate the adoption/implementation of conservation practices across the state. 4. Seek additional funding for biomass-based diesel fueling infrastructure to reduce the current project backlog. 5. Support continued efforts to reduce property tax burden on farmers. 6. Monitor legislative proposals dealing with foreign ownership of Iowa farmland.
PRIORITIES
IOWA SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION | 2024 STATE PRIORITIES
IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 15
Congratulations to the 2024 ISA Leadership Award winners who were recognized at the Winter Soy Summit in December! To learn more about each recipient, go to iasoybeans.com.
BLAKE VAN DER KAMP Rising Star Award presented by Farm Credit Services of America This award is presented to a high school senior or currently enrolled college student who demonstrates the skills and drive necessary to grow the Iowa soybean industry, takes an active role in promoting Iowa agriculture through local, state and national activities, and has plans to remain involved in agriculture in the future through professional or personal activities.
JIM O’CONNELL Environmental Leader presented by Agri Drain Corporation
This award is presented to an ISA member who has demonstrated a commitment to practices that improve environmental performance, worked with ISA through the Research Center for Farming Innovation and/or Soil and Water Outcomes Fund and has shown outstanding leadership in the use of precision agriculture tools and technology.
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LISA OBRECHT New Leader Award presented by Corteva Agriscience This award is presented to an ISA member who has actively grown their involvement in ISA programing, shown outstanding involvement in their district and/or state, and demonstrated the skills and drive necessary to grow the Iowa soybean industry.
ROBB EWOLDT Innovator in Production Research Award presented by John Deere
This award recognizes an individual, organization or company who has demonstrated their commitment to improving the competitiveness of Iowa soybean farmers, shown outstanding leadership in the use of precision agriculture tools and technology and has worked to discover, validate and effectively manage practices to improve profitability.
SENATOR DAN ZUMBACH Friend of the Iowa Soybean Farmer presented by Cargill This award recognizes an elected leader, reporter or other ISA partner who has shown a deep understanding of agricultural issues, supported Iowa’s soybean farmers through their actions and efforts, and had demonstrated a commitment to helping improve the competitiveness of Iowa’s soybean farmers.
JEFF JORGENSON Policy Champion presented by Champion Seed
This award recognizes an ISA Advocate Member who has a proven track record of personally engaging elected leaders on issues and topics (local, state, federal) of consequence to the soybean industry, involved in ISA activities that develop and amplify soybean industry policy and is recognized by peers as a knowledgeable and trusted resource on soybean industry policy.
DARCY MAULSBY Advocate for Iowa Agriculture Award presented by Bayer Crop Science This award recognizes an individual, organization or company who effectively and accurately tells the story of modern agriculture, actively builds bridges between Iowa farmers and consumers, and enhances awareness of Iowa agriculture and/or the soybean industry.
WAYNE FREDERICKS Legacy of Leadership presented by Stine Seed
This award is presented to a present or past ISA member who has established a history of taking an active role in advancing the goals of ISA, represented ISA in a positive and professional manner and continuously demonstrated a passion and commitment for growing the soybean industry in Iowa.
IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 17
Position your farm for success in 2024 and beyond. BY KRISS NELSON
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he ever-changing domestic and international markets represent opportunities and challenges for Iowa soybean farmers. “There are a lot of issues happening internationally that farmers may not be putting the dots together about what it means for export markets,” says Matt Herman, Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) senior director of renewable products marketing. To provide insight into global and domestic market trends and their impact on a farmer’s return on investment for 2024 and beyond, ISA is hosting the Farm Forward conference on Jan. 30 in Des Moines. “The Farm Forward event is an exclusive opportunity for Iowa soybean farmers to better understand and navigate the many production and market forces shaping our industry,” says Michael Dolch, ISA senior director of public affairs. “Farmers who attend this event are not just preparing for the next season; they are positioning themselves at the forefront of agricultural innovation and market strategy for years to come.” Keynote speaker Frank Kelly will set the stage for a day leading to what could affect the future of biofuels, soybean breeding and markets.
Kelly, founder and managing partner of Fulcrum Macro Advisors, will provide insights on geopolitical and U.S. political issues, the economics surrounding those matters and the potential implications for the soybean industry. “I think the United States is going to be called Frank Kelly, keynote on more to be a critical speaker for Farm Forward supplier to the world,” says Kelly. “As markets are shifting overseas, there are risks to the food supply outside of the U.S., which may pressure farmers to produce more efficiently than they already do. When there are issues with food security — where do you go? I predict you will go to the freest market in the world.” The conference will entail three panel discussions followed by a question-and-answer session.
“The marketplace is so complex. Let us put some experts in the room and distill the information so you can make informed business decisions.” Brent Swart, ISA president-elect and farmer f rom Spencer
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“ISA is bringing together an expert lineup of speakers and panelists to explore some of the biggest challenges and opportunities on the horizon, from the evolving biofuels landscape and oilseed crush expansion to emerging soybean breeding techniques and global trade dynamics,” says Dolch.
The future of soybean breeding — the trends, how they are working to address the current and future market needs will be the second panel of the conference, and will be moderated by ISA Senior Director of Research Christie Wiebbecke.
Bioenergy: past, present and future
Farm margins, planting decisions and a 2024-2027 market outlook with macro and micro drivers will be the theme behind the third panel. Brent Swart, ISA president-elect and farmer from Spencer in Clay County will moderate a discussion about how farmers can plan for 2024 and beyond. The panel will include a representative from Ever.Ag, an ag-tech solutions and services company for agriculture, food and beverage supply chains and others. “This is top-tier talent being put in front of farmers,” says Swart. “The marketplace is so complex. Let us put some experts in the room and distill the information so you can make informed business decisions.” Following the event, all attendees are invited to join ISA’s legislative reception at Curate. Program participants will also receive a ticket to the Iowa Ag Expo, formerly known as the Iowa Power and Farming Show, held at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines on Jan. 31.
Herman will join Greg Northrup, president of Verbio NA Holdings Corp and Doug Struyk, an attorney with Carney and Appleby Law, for a panel about what the future means for biofuels and the state and federal issues that could stand in the way. “We will sum up what has happened in history, how we got where we are today, where these programs may be going in the future, and what that means for a potential change in commodity demand — going beyond corn and soybeans to be used for energy,” says Herman.
Future of soybean breeding Will soybean breeders unlock the potential of designer soybeans? “What are companies doing outside of their normal? Are they starting to engineer traits that could specifically serve the bioenergy market? These are things that are going to be highly valuable in the future but we haven’t had a market for them so far,” says Herman.
Farm income and market outlook
Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com
Jan. 30, 2024 | Starting at 9:30 a.m. Des Moines Marriott Downtown 700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50309 9:30 a.m.
Registration
10:00 a.m.
Global changes impacting U.S. ag exports
11:00 a.m.
Iowa’s bioenergy market: What’s next?
12:00 p.m.
Lunch
1:00 p.m.
Future of soybean breeding
2:00 p.m.
Break
2:15 p.m.
Farm income and market outlook
3:30 p.m.
State of farm policy
5:30 p.m.
Legislative reception (optional)
he In t l! i a m
oin state lawmakers and fellow farmers J for ISA’s annual Legislative Reception to be held at 322 E Court Avenue in Des Moines.
JOIN US! RSVP BY JANUARY 4 Scan QR code or visit iasoybeans.com/forward33 Questions? Contact Bre Wagner at 515-669-7963 or bwagner@iasoybeans.com
IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 19
Year in Review Rosie Roberts ISA Technical Insights Manager rroberts@iasoybeans.com
A
s we prepare for the new year, we can’t help but reflect on the previous year’s progress and achievements. 2023 welcomed new projects, insights and expertise to Iowa’s 40,000 soybean farmers. Within the Research Center for Farming Innovation, our agronomists, research scientists, conservationists, wildlife biologists, technicians and analysts diligently focus on improving farmer’s productivity, profitability and sustainability. Here’s the highlight reel of 2023.
Guided by farmers’ interests Our Research Agronomy team conducted 143 on-farm replicated strip trials across the state, spanning from the rolling hills of Fayette County to the plains of Calhoun County and everywhere in between. Our research agronomists and technicians connected 102 farmer cooperators to 15 projects, guided by each participant’s desire to learn about
On-farm research trials by category
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different practices on their farm and provide valuable information to other Iowa farmers. Some of these projects included fungicide’s impact on soybean production, variable rate planting trials and improved nitrogen use efficiency in partnership with Iowa State University.
Translating results into plans After completing an on-farm trial, the Analytics and Insights team worked diligently to translate each trial result into recommendations and actionable management decisions. The team analyzed more than 143 individual sites, and an analysis of combined trials across the state has also been shared on our website. In 2023, our team rolled out a new tool to interpret and compare soil health test results across variable geographies in Iowa. The Soil Health Interpretation Portal (SHIP) allows farmers and advisors to see how their soil health measurements compare to others in their area and think about how this could impact their operation. The SHIP can be found on our website (iasoybeans.com), alongside many other free decision-making tools. Additionally, this team started and published three episodes of the Pods of Potential podcast, a new avenue to share RCFI projects and research insights. After gleaning insights from research, our boots-on-the-ground team is ready to assist with practice implementation and in-season support. The Conservation Agronomist Network covers all 99 counties in Iowa, driving the implementation of conservation practices using both in-field and edge-of-field practices. Each conservation agronomist provides agronomic assistance to ensure farmer success, partners with ag retailers and connects
acres of cover crops
acres of reduced tillage
pounds of nitrogen saved from watersheds
stakeholders with cost-share programs that ensure profitability on every acre. In 2023, guidance from conservation agronomists saved 292,950 pounds of nitrogen and 17,580 pounds of phosphorous from watersheds by adopting cover crops on 35,000 acres and reducing tillage on 5,000 acres. These numbers influence a field’s ability to cycle nutrients and improve downstream water quality.
Saving soil This continued focus on conservation and ecosystem services directly ties into the Conservation Programming Services (CPS) team. Through project development and implementation, CPS is a leader in soil, water and habitat resource management. This includes using ISA’s water lab to analyze 2,696 samples in 2023 for nitrogen, phosphorous and bacterial concentrations collected from 533 sites across the state. The water lab partnered with 119 participants, mostly producers who expressed interest in testing either a tile outlet, stream, lake or
pounds of phosphorous saved from watersheds
edge-of-field conservation practices for water quality metrics. Seasonal reports allow each participant to compare their site’s results to other anonymous sample locations across the state.
Species preservation The CPS team also focuses on habitat restoration for endangered species native to Iowa. In 2023, 25 oxbow restorations were completed to provide habitat for the Topeka shiner and mitigate flood risk. Additionally, 29 acres of pollinator habitat were seeded in historic areas of the rusty-patched bumblebee. Our specialists also assisted with implementing edge-of-field practices that use natural means to filter out nitrogen from tile drainage water. How can RCFI’s team of experts help positively impact your farm? Whether you’re considering variable-rate seeding populations or improving habitat along the edge of your fields, we have a trained professional eager to assist across your operation’s landscape.
HAVE A TRIAL OR A PROJECT YOU’RE INTERESTED IN? We can potentially explore it as a topic in a future issue. Better yet, we’ll connect you with your local expert so you can implement a trial on your farm. 515-251-8640
JMCCLURE@IASOYBEANS.COM
SCAN THE QR CODE IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 21
Building Relationships Across the Pacific Soy agreements important for U.S. and Chinese interests. STORY BY JEFF HUTTON AND KRISS NELSON | PHOTOS BY JOSEPH HOPPER
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hile the geopolitical climate between the United States and China has been strained, the relationship between Iowa’s soybean farmers, agribusinesses and Chinese buyers continues to flourish. In October 2023, American and Chinese entities signed multiple agreements worth billions of dollars. It also signified continued relationships benefiting soybean producers and Chinese consumers. During an event at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in Des Moines, China’s Hopefull Grain & Oil Group signed two purchase agreements with Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. (ADM) and Olam to purchase $3 billion worth of U.S. soybeans over the next three years. A delegation of government officials and business leaders led by Hebei Vice Governor Jin Hui and leadership from the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) witnessed the signing. China’s soybean imports grew from 20 million metric tons in 2004 to 100 million tons in 2020, with more than 30 million tons sourced from the United States, says Li Chengfeng, vice-general manager of the international business department at Hopefull. Li says Hopefull’s soybean imports grew 500% — to 5.85 million tons — from 2012 to 2022. “Of these, 3.06 million tons came from the United States, and one out of every five ships of soybean deliveries comes from Iowa,” he says.
More agreements Other Chinese agriculture companies and American commodity exporters signed purchasing agreements and contracts at a separate event.
Kenneth Quinn, president emeritus of the World Food Prize Foundation, stands alongside Hebei Vice Governor Jin Hui and ISA President Suzanne Shirbroun inside the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates.
22 | JANUARY 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM
During the U.S.-China Sustainable Agricultural Trade Forum in Des Moines, Chinese companies signed 11 purchase agreements with U.S. exporters. Among the companies that signed agreements were ADM with Bohi Industry; ADM with China Agri; ADM with Fuzhiyuan Feed Protein (Wilmar International); Bunge with Sinograin Oil; Cargill with Sinograin Oil; CHS with Bohi Enterprises; CHS with Sinograin Oil; COFCO International with China Agri; COFCO Agri with Zennoh Grain; Shenzhen Gem with Hangtung Resources; and Zennoh Grain with Bohi Industry. The agreements highlight the importance of trade to U.S. soybean producers and consumers around the world. Consider the following: • Soybeans and soy products are America’s leading agricultural export with an export value of more than $34.37 billion in 2022. • ISA increases demand and builds customer preference for U.S. soy globally. ISA partners with the American Soybean Association (ASA) and the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) to accomplish these goals. • Every checkoff dollar spent on international marketing generates $17.95 in return value to growers, according to research by Texas A&M University. • Global soybean demand is up 264% since 1990, due in part by the work of U.S. soybean organizations and international marketing export programs over the past 30 years.
Beyond financial While the bottom line will always be important to both exporters and importers, the agreements between the Chinese and American soybean producers and businesses reinforces the need for strong relationships. “Just remember these three words: Peace through agriculture.” That was the message from Kenneth Quinn, the president emeritus of the World Food Prize Foundation, who was among the many dignitaries to attend the signing event, co-organized by ISA, USSEC, the U.S. Grains Council, and the China Chamber of Commerce for Import & Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce & Animal By-products (CFNA). Xie Feng, Chinese ambassador to the United States, says the agreements represent immense value between Iowa soybean farmers and the Chinese people. “People are the foundation of a nation, and food is of paramount importance,” he says. “The China-U.S. agricultural cooperation is a rich land with bright prospects. The contracts signed today are multiple billions in value. Let us sow more seeds of cooperation on the fields of hope.” The ambassador says Iowans, in particular, represent what is good about America.
“To me, the warm-hearted people of Iowa are the epitome of what America is,” Feng says. USSEC CEO Jim Sutter says the relationship between China and U.S. soybean producers is one of mutual interest and respect. “The collaboration between China and U.S. soy continues to deliver food and nutrition security, and economic growth for consumers, companies and producers in China and the U.S.,” Sutter says. “Sustainable agriculture production and trade are impact multipliers. China has been masterful at leveraging trade to achieve local food security and economic growth. We strive to maintain this stable and mutually beneficial collaboration between China and U.S. soy as the ballast for successful bilateral economic and trade relations.” The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Jason Hafemeister agreed. “These contracts illustrate the gains from trade: food is moving from areas of surplus to areas of need,” he says. “The confidence behind these contracts allows U.S. producers to invest where we have agriculture advantages, and this
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relationship will help foster innovation needed to sustainably intensify production to deliver nutrition and food security sustainably.” Hafemeister, who is the acting deputy undersecretary for USDA trade and agricultural affairs, says despite the current geopolitical climate, both China and the United States have a strong interest in continuing these agricultural relationships. Trade, he says, has a lasting impact, spurring economic growth, encouraging investment and bringing parties together. Former ISA board member and current ASA board member Morey Hill from Madrid says these agreements with China expands the global market. “I think it shows the world that Iowa is ready to do business with China and others to move our products,” he says. “I’ve always said that Iowa farmers can grow soybeans, but sometimes we’re not so good at selling them. This helps push the needle and opens other opportunities for other markets (countries).” Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com
Celebrating a Milestone
he mission of Iowa Sister States is to serve as a catalyst for economic and cultural interests by developing exchange relationships with other countries and carrying them out in Iowa communities and in our partner states. To help commemorate the 40th anniversary of China’s Hebei Province as an Iowa sister state, a special signing ceremony was held at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in October. Iowa became a sister state with the province in 1983 under thenGov. Terry Branstad. “Iowa soybean farmers are excited to further our ties,” says Suzanne Shirbroun, ISA president and farmer from Farmersburg in Clayton County. “We look forward to the next 40 years of friendship as we continue to feed and fuel the next generation.” Iowa Sister States is a non-profit organization that works to build sustainable international partnerships that connect Iowans to the world community. “The fact that we are here at the World Food Prize and there has been such a tremendous effort on both sides to celebrate the anniversary speaks volumes on how
Rick Kimberley and Jin Hui pose for some photos during the vice governor of Hebei's visit to the family farm near Maxwell on Oct. 26.
tight this relationship is, how much it has grown, and how important it is,” says Luca Berrone, an Iowa Sister States board member who was instrumental in starting the relationship between Iowa and Hebei in 1983. The relationship started to lend support, leadership and learning about methods related to growing and processing food and livestock feed.
As part of the Hebei-Iowa Sister State anniversary, Rick and Martha Kimberley, ISA farmer-members from Maxwell hosted the Hebei delegation on their farm. “Iowa grows a lot of soybeans and the largest market for our soybeans is China,” says Rick. “It all comes to building relationships and building friendships.” Work done to advance these relationships by ISA and national soybean Continued on Pg 24. IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 23
associations does not go unnoticed by the people of China. “There is too much rhetoric going around about our relationship with China,” says Berrone. “China is a tremendous market because they want and need our American products, in particular, soybeans. I think U.S. farmers need to also understand these relationships are paramount in the success of selling what they produce.” The Kimberleys have hosted trade teams from all around the world, including a visit from then Vice President — and now President of the People’s Republic of China — Xi Jinping. “It helps to open doors, and it comes down to building relationships,” says Kimberley. “With China being the largest buyer of U.S. soybeans, we have to realize we don’t have much control over the political scene, but if we can work with people to help our industry, that is what we are going to do.” Hebei Vice Governor Jin Hui saw the Kimberley farm firsthand, and even sat in the driver’s seat of the tractor.
your
Rick Kimberley and Jin Hui lead an entourage through the Kimberley family farm.
“The Kimberley farm is a model for modernized farming in the United States and is a locomotive for driving grain production,” Hui says. She also acknowledged and thanked the Story County family for their contributions to China and Hebei agriculture. “I believe this will further strengthen China-U.S. and Hebei-Iowa exchange and
cooperation in agriculture,” she says. “We hope to continue on the path of friendship,” says Kimberley. “This project has allowed us to show sustainable ways of farming, and also build friendships with the people of Hebei.” Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com
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Taking Action I
owa Soybean Association (ISA) farmer-member Joe Shirbroun from Farmersburg dedicates time and land each year to implement trials. “I encourage farmers to take two- to three percent of their farm operation and try something you haven’t done before,” says Shirbroun. “Try to get out of that comfort zone and take the challenge.” By making trials a part of his annual plan, he is able to check the results and
Farmers turn plans into actions. BY KRISS NELSON
decide how to transform those findings into action on his farm. It’s part of the plan, do, check, act model that ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI) encourages its farmer participants to adopt.
Acting on results Shirbroun has implemented a variety of trials on the farm near Farmersburg. One of the most robust trials was
This image shows a 3D view of planter prescription where seeding rates change according to the elevation change in the f ield. Image: Aaron Friedlein/Ag Mapping Solutions
26 | JANUARY 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM
researching variable rate seeding. ISA RCFI research agronomists initially encouraged Shirbroun to participate in the variable rate seeding trial to see how seeding rates for soybeans and corn perform in different sections throughout the field. “They challenged us to try it,” he says. “They wrote the scripts, and we followed them.” After more than 10 years of participating in this particular trial, Shirbroun now has the data to help make decisions on every acre. “We looked at our ratio of seed plants per acre versus yield and have learned when we over-apply seed in lower production ground, we tend to get less yield, so we treat those areas with expectations, knowing there will be less output.” On their family’s farm in the rolling hills of northeast Iowa, Shirbroun makes variable rate planting scripts based on the field’s elevation and past yield history. “We plant for the ability of the soil’s production level,” he says. “In our low-lying areas, we have to lower our populations because soybeans will favor plant growth and not seed product.”
Schaffer says one theory to consider is that Hybrid A is a defensive hybrid, bred to be a more average stable-yielding hybrid in all conditions. In contrast, Hybrid B is an offensive variety of seed, bred to be a top-yielding hybrid for prime conditions. The defensive hybrid may do better in cooler, wetter springs — or at least in this tillage trial. Examples of traits that could be included in this hybrid are robustness of seed, resistance to seedling disease, plant architecture where it is more well adapted to collect sunlight at lower population, and is a flex hybrid that will make a bigger ear if they have extra space — if their neighbor didn’t emerge, for example. Schaffer says the offensive hybrid will take advantage of prime conditions such as warm soils, earlier planting and leaf structure optimized for higher density of plants. Some of these traits could be at the expense of disease resistance, drought tolerance and more, which allow it to yield better in intensive management systems such as conventional or strip-till with high planting density, and with a fungicide application. “This type of trial is time well spent for a farmer considering a management change,” says Schaffer. “It is not always clear what kind of ripple effect a management change such as tillage can have on the rest of the operation without doing some trial work.” In this study, if a producer wants to change from strip-till to no-till, it would be worthwhile to switch to Hybrid A.
Hybrids' reaction to management practices To determine how corn hybrids respond to different tillage practices, Wayne Fredericks, now a retired farmer from Osage, conducted a replicated strip trial by planting two different corn hybrids in two different tillage management practices. Results from the trial summarize how a single hybrid performs in strip-till versus no-till. The two trials were done side-by-side in the same field, making it fair to compare Hybrid A and Hybrid B in both management practices. Results show Hybrid A went from 236.2 bushels to the acre in strip-till down to 232.5 bushels to the acre in no-till for a total loss of 3.7 bushels to the acre. Hybrid B went from 239.4 bushels to the acre in strip-till to 229.3 bushels to the acre in no-till for a total loss of 10.1 bushels to the acre. “Hybrid A performed better in no-till, and Hybrid B performed better in striptill,” says ISA Research Agronomist Alex Schaffer. “This opportunity would not have been realized without trial work. Wayne wouldn’t have known how best to implement this management change into his operation.”
Yield Average by Strip Number Treatment
No till
“Because Wayne made a good plan in his trial setup, we uncovered some statistically sound, reliable results,” says Schaffer. That’s how the plan, do, check, act model can further research and deliver results to farmers. “With this information, he can act by making an informed management change and will realize a greater return on investment because he can produce more grain with less fuel and with the right hybrid selection,” Schaffer says.
Let ISA help you plan, do, check and act RCFI is dedicated to helping farmers with technical assistance to implement new practices in the field or edge-of-field. “We are here to work with growers to conduct research on their farm and to develop a large enough data set to help all Iowa farmers adopt new practices that will drive them to be more profitable, productive and sustainable,” says Schaffer. With the continued support of ISA’s RCFI team, Shirbroun is looking ahead to trial opportunities this spring. He has worked with biologicals for two years and is considering adapting some biologicals to assist in nutrient cycling. “As we look ahead in agriculture, biologicals are a buzzword,” Shirbroun says. “I think we will have to challenge ourselves to try.” Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com
Yield Average by Strip Number
Strip till
Treatment
No till
Strip till
250 245
Yield (bu/acre)
250
Yield (bu/acre)
From on-farm trials involving insecticides to variable rate planting and biologicals, Joe Shirbroun, a Clayton County farmer, puts results f rom those trials into action.
Soybean seeding populations on the Shirbroun farm range from 100-155,000 seeds per acre; and 24,000 seeds per acre up to 36,000 in corn.
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IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 27
Meetings to showcase local, relevant research and opportunities. BY KRISS NELSON
28 | JANUARY 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM
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ocally led, locally relevant and locally driven to deliver. Join the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI) team as they showcase research findings and other ways your soybean checkoff is delivering expertise and actionable steps to improve the productivity and profitability on your farm. Save the date — or dates — for this year’s ISA Innovation to Profit series of meetings. “Each meeting will meet the needs of the region in which it is held. The series will be locally relevant, providing insights that reflect the practices, challenges, programming opportunities and financial assistance opportunities for that area,” says ISA’s Senior Director of Research Christie Wiebbecke. The Innovation to Profit series will begin with a series of four meetings scheduled for Feb. 6, 8, 13 and 15. “These meetings are an excellent opportunity to see what the Iowa Soybean
Association is doing with research on the farm and what they can do to help farmers be more profitable,” says Jeff Frank, ISA’s district 4 board member and treasurer. “Everything ISA’s doing with research on the farm will hopefully enlighten you with what your checkoff dollars are doing for you.” The RCFI team is planning a series of meetings extending beyond the February dates to deliver programming year-round. “We are planning on taking you from the winter meeting to the field during the growing season with field days tied to the Innovation to Profit local projects and programming throughout the year,” Wiebbecke says. From research to results, the Innovation to Profit meetings aim to provide updates to farmers on research topics and interact with farmers. “We want to hear what questions farmers have, and what we should think about,” says Wiebbecke. “We want to hear what they are struggling with on their
farm and how we can support them from a research perspective.” The series of meetings will also highlight how ISA’s RCFI project priorities are farmer-led and farmer-driven. “We want farmers to share how they have partnered with ISA, lessons they’ve learned, and why they work with us,” says Wiebbecke.
Getting to know ISA Meet other farmers in your area, learn more about ISA trials and research efforts, and connect with your local ISA RCFI experts starting with the February Innovation to Profit events. “We want these meetings to be twoway conversations between farmers and ISA RCFI staff,” Wiebbecke says. “We want to further explore the questions and opportunities in every region of the state, helping farmers be more productive, profitable and sustainable on their farms.” Contact Kriss Nelson at knelson@iasoybeans.com
“We want to further explore the questions and opportunities in every region of the state, helping farmers be more productive, prof itable and sustainable on their farms.” Christie Wiebbecke, ISA senior director of research
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IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 29
Discussion notes there is no need for division. BY JEFF HUTTON
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he argument that agriculture is a food vs. fuel proposition is antiquated. Rather, it’s about how agriculture, energy and food security can co-exist — feeding and fueling the world simultaneously. That was at the heart of a recent discussion in Des Moines during the Borlaug Dialogue. The discussion “Food and Fuel: Where Agriculture, Energy and Food Security Intersect,” showcased the conversation, which is of particular interest to farmers, policymakers, agribusinesses and consumers.
Innovation and technology Kevin Lucke, president of the Chevron Renewable Energy Group and a southwest Iowa farmer, says there should be no division between food and fuel. “If I look back, it used to be a food vs. fuel discussion,” he says. “But with the ethanol business and biodiesel business … those 20 years of technology has changed a lot.” He noted that today’s biodiesel
30 | JANUARY 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM
Kevin Lucke, president, Chevron Renewable Energy Group
and renewable diesel products rely on various sources of feedstocks, including used cooking oil, distillers’ grain oil, animal fat, and soybean and canola oils. “Technology has changed a lot to using different sources of raw materials to make fuel,” Lucke says. “Many of those are actually byproducts of the agriculture industry.” Jennifer Ozimkiewicz, senior vice president and head of global corn and
soybean crop strategy for Bayer Crop Science, says innovation has been key in serving both food and fuel needs. “We’re really dedicated to ensuring farmers can meet the needs of food, fuel and fiber for the world and largely it is through innovation and technology,” she says. Ozimkiewicz says productivity is key, including investments in products and platforms that help farmers improve the productivity and profitability of their farm while helping reduce the environmental impact. “That’s important as they protect their soils and want to sustain their land and reduce emissions on their farms,” she says. While demand for biofuels is increasing, Ozimkiewicz says it’s important that producers continue to grow enough to feed a growing planet. “When we think about agriculture, we certainly believe that it’s capable of delivering on both,” she says, adding that new technologies and adaptations to agronomic practices will help in making that happen.
The power of soybeans Mac Marshall, vice president of market intelligence for the United Soybean Board, says soybean producers, in partnership with researchers, agronomists and business, all have a role to play in feeding and fueling the world. “First and foremost, this ecosystem of innovation that we have — whether it’s companies bringing agricultural solutions to the farm or farmers implementing their agronomic knowhow and continuous improvement — that’s why we’re able to continue to produce more,” he says. Marshall says everyone needs to look at the issue as not an intersection of food and fuel, but rather a co-existence. Soybeans, he insists, is perfectly suited for that effort.
Consider soybean processing, he says. When processors crush a soybean, they get 80% meal, which goes into producing animal protein and provides essential amino acids. The remaining 20% is oil — fats and lipids — that are used in traditional food spaces and for energy. “It’s one of those intrinsic fundamental qualities of soybeans that you’re producing both for food and for fuel,” he says. Everyone in the supply chain and agriculture has to solve for both food and energy solutions concurrently. “With U.S. soy, we’re doing that starting with the work on the farm,” Marshall says. From a soy checkoff standpoint, renewable diesel and biofuels have created new market drivers that were predicated on investments and activities decades ago. “Once upon a time, soybean oil was an afterthought,” Marshall says. “Farmers got together and said we need to make a market for this. Now we’ve gone from being a non-commercial market to a commercial market and we have advanced policies that are geared toward helping decarbonize the economy.”
Sustainability Mac Marshall, vice president of market intelligence for the United Soybean Board
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Greg Jaffe says the marriage of food and fuel is imperative.
“We support the co-existence of both food and fuel using agriculture and farmers to produce both types of products,” he says. “It creates revenue streams for agricultural producers and ensures that wealth and other economic benefits such as jobs stay in rural communities.” Jaffe, who serves as a senior advisor to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, says balancing the production of food and fuel is helping address environmental challenges and climate change. He points to the past several years of feedstocks that have produced billions of gallons of ethanol and biodiesel without a demonstrable increase in agricultural acres or a reduction in food production. Jaffe says Vilsack and the USDA wants to have a “circular agriculture” and food economy with many different income opportunities for farmers and a sustainable production system.
Collaborative effort Lucke says the challenges ahead are daunting but not insurmountable. “Feeding the world is very complex, fueling the world is very complex, and reducing greenhouse gases is very complex,” he says. “But you can’t solve any of those three challenges without collaboration. It’s going to take teamwork and it’s going to take innovation.” Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com
" We’re really dedicated to ensuring farmers can meet the needs of food, fuel and fiber for the world and largely it is through innovation and technology." Jennifer Ozimkiewicz, senior vice president and head of global corn and soybean crop strategy for Bayer Crop Science
IOWA SOYBEAN REVIEW® | 31
