Iowa Soybean Review | June 2024

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

June 2024 | Vol. 37, No. 9

12

Director Election Guide

Meet the candidates vying for positions on the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Board of Directors.

22 Friend

of

the Iowa Soybean Farmer

Iowa senator selected as 2024 ISA Friend of the Iowa Soybean Farmer.

26

Oxbow Restoration

See how rehabbing oxbows is benefiting water quality and habitats.

30 Anderson Recognized for Soybean Collaboration

Award honors the late Tom Oswald.

On the cover:

The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) recently rolled out its new strategic plan after a year-long process involving farmers, industry stakeholders and others. Four key values emerged in the plan, including honesty, leadership, innovation and stewardship. Read more about the plan 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.

Executive Insights

Kirk Leeds, ISA Chief Executive Officer kleeds@iasoybeans.com

Building Relationships

After more than 43 years of marriage to my beautiful wife, Kim, one might expect that I’ve successfully developed into something close to an expert in the art and science of building and maintaining relationships. However, any such suggestion would be met with a strong rebuke from that same wife of 43 years.

Earlier this year, the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) Board of Directors approved a new strategic plan (see story on page 8). It establishes organizational priorities, which helps focus energy and resources and improves operations. The plan ensures employees and partners are working toward common interests, while providing credible and meaningful ways to measure progress.

I’m excited about the new plan and look forward to working with our dedicated and professional staff to develop and present detailed funding proposals for farmer directors to consider as they work on the 2025 budget.

Fundamental to the new plan is our continued focus on understanding and meeting the needs of Iowa’s soybean farmers. A key imperative will be to enhance and deepen relationships with farmers across the state.

Formed in 1964, ISA leaders have always recognized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with the farmers we serve. What, therefore, is new about the focus in the strategic plan?

From my perspective as CEO, building relationships with farmers requires ongoing

and proactive processes to reach each farmer with the relevant connections, content, and benefits for them, at the right time and in the right way. The idea of building relationships is not new. Rather, it’s having a clear understanding that, without these relationships, we will not be able to reach each farmer with relevant content and benefits in the place and time most beneficial to them.

So how do we do this? It starts with making more personal connections — farmer to farmer, and with our growing number of dedicated staff who have boots on the ground statewide. These professionals bring expertise to farmers on a host of topics including agronomy, conservation, water management, soil health, analytics, data management, leadership development, biodiversity, advocacy, policy, transportation, carbon and environmental markets, biofuels, new uses and international trade.

We will also invest in innovative technologies to better facilitate these relationships, ensuring we are providing the information you need when and how you want it delivered. And we’ll develop more efficient ways for farmers to provide feedback on our progress so we stay on top of the challenges impacting your bottom line.

Doing both will ensure ISA remains driven to deliver today and for the next 60 years.

HELPING YOU DELIVER ON DEMAND

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

See more ways the soy checkoff is maximizing profit opportunities for farmers at unitedsoybean.org

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

Passing the Torch

TRural Route 2

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

wo separate torches have been lit, signifying the ceremonial start of something big. In one month, one torch will ignite the Olympic cauldron in Paris. That ceremony will consist of elaborate pageantry and serve as the start of the Olympics games. The torch was lit in Greece in April; in relay style, more than 10,000 torchbearers are carrying the flame from Greece to Paris. It ends with the opening ceremony in late July, kicking off the Olympic games where 10,500 athletes will be vying for gold medals in their respective events.

The other torch consists of a different kind of pageantry in July, but one that will shape the future of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and soybean farming in Iowa. The ‘torch’ of the ISA Board of Directors has been lit for decades. Like the Olympic torch, it’s been relayed person-to-person (farmer-to-farmer). But this torch-lighting

won’t end with 10,500 athletes battling in events like trampoline, canoe sprint and climbing. This one ends with seven directors seated on the ISA Board of Directors, rounding out the 22-member board. Together, they are trusted to make decisions on behalf of nearly 40,000 farmers in Iowa.

The farmers who make up the board are tasked with allocating checkoff dollars in areas like engagement, productivity and demand. They also map out the direction for the association.

Like Olympians, the 15 candidates vying for seven seats in this year’s ISA director election have years of experience. They’ve trained for this. As I condensed the biographies for the candidates to fit the voting guide in this magazine, I noted how each could contribute to conversations and decisions related to production research, demand, consumer engagement and several other topics discussed during board meetings. They’re ready to serve their fellow farmers.

If you annually market 250 bushels of soybeans, you can expect a voting guide and additional voting instructions in the mail soon. Think about how these candidates will carry the torch for ISA. Your voice (and vote!) matters in your farm journey, and I hope you’ll take the opportunity to vote and connect with the directors. I can’t wait to see who you’ve selected to serve on your ISA team.

DRIVEN TO DELIVER

New strategic plan sharpens ISA’s focus, actions.

BY AARON PUTZE, APR

“ Strategy is a fancy word for coming up with a long-term plan and putting it into action.”

Ellie Pidot

As this year’s growing season hits its stride for Iowa farmers, so, too, is implementation of the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) new strategic plan.

Approved in March by ISA’s 22 farmer directors, the plan is the result of a year-long process that included the gathering of attitudinal research, conversing with farmers and industry stakeholders, and analyzing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing soybean farmers over the next 3-5 years.

“A well-constructed strategic plan is easier said than done,” says ISA President Suzanne Shirbroun. “But the spirited conversations, challenging conventional wisdom, and assessing the future state of soy from a local and global perspective resulted in a plan that will serve soybean farmers well during a time of incredible uncertainty.”

ISA’s vision of advancing the long-term competitiveness of Iowa soybean farmers is underscored by its mission of delivering opportunities for Iowa soybean farmers to thrive.

“If the words sound familiar, they should,” says ISA CEO Kirk Leeds. “Our clarity of focus is unwavering, grounded in 60 years of being funded by soybean farmers to maximize returns for soybean farmers.”

Four values are underscored in the plan, key to everything ISA does and stands for. They are honesty, leadership, innovation, and stewardship.

“We’re committed to transparency, gratitude, welcoming diversity of thought and leaving the land and water better for future generations,” says Shirbroun of Farmersburg. “Our values are steadfast and have made ISA a trusted and recognized leader in the soybean value chain, both here at home and globally.”

ISA’s new strategic plan also emphasizes two imperatives — purposedriven, farmer-focused engagement and being data driven to improve operational responsiveness and efficiencies.

“Building relationships across the soy value chain and using data to make every checkoff dollar go further is paramount to everything we do,” Leeds says. “We’re about generating results for the farmers we serve, a mission and purpose that’s been at the heart of ISA for the past 60 years and will be for the next 60.”

The plan also encompasses five program areas: engagement, productivity, demand, advocacy and operations. Actions and activities accompany each focus area. They will be adjusted annually based on a set of metrics reported to the board twice yearly.

Contact Aaron Putze at aputze@iasoybeans.com

FARMER FOCUSED DRIVEN TO DELIVER

VISION

We advance the long-term competitiveness of Iowa soybean farmers.

VALUES HONESTY

We are guided by humility, integrity, and transparency in our relationships and decisions.

INNOVATION

We drive bold solutions to complex problems through collaboration and diversity of thought.

MISSION

Driven to deliver opportunities for Iowa soybean farmers to thrive.

LEADERSHIP

We are passionate champions for the people and communities we are grateful to serve.

STEWARDSHIP

We responsibly use resources for the longterm sustainability of agriculture.

STRATEGIC PLAN

ENGAGEMENT

PRIORITIES

Connect all Iowa soybean farmers with ISA.

Encourage soybean farmers to be active participants in ISA.

Strengthen the relationship between soybean farmers and ISA.

Strong and enduring relationships with farmers, industry stakeholders and key influencers benefiting the soybean farmer, ISA and agricultural community.

Develop leaders to maximize ISA’s reach and influence.

Serve as the go-to resource for soybean industry news and information.

Advance the positive attributes of soy and modern agriculture.

DEMAND

PRIORITIES

Increase exports of soybean meal and whole soybeans.

Improve infrastructure to increase competitiveness.

Advance Bioenergy Solutions and Markets.

Increase demand for Iowa and U.S. soybeans and soy products.

Accelerate domestic utilization of soy meal and oil for animal, human and industrial use.

OPERATIONS

PRIORITIES

Design internal systems and workflows to reduce barriers and empower staff to deliver value to farmers

Develop and implement the “ISA Data Strategy” and program.

Maximize the impact of our people and resources through operational excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement.

Foster a positive culture that cares for the health and well-being of Team ISA.

Enhance the functionality of ISA stakeholder and industry partnerships to maximize mutual value.

Build resiliency by investing in our talent and developing future leaders.

PRODUCTIVITY

PRIORITIES

Improve soybean cropping system productivity, profitability, and sustainability.

Foster research projects and programs that serve Iowa farmers. Develop integrated research programming and technical assistance supporting robust agronomic practices and farmer-led conservation practice implementation.

Expand holistic understanding of the soybean cropping system and innovative practices.

Assemble statewide projects that enable robust datasets to deliver locally relevant insights for implementation.

ADVOCACY*

PRIORITIES

Increase and deepen Advocate Member participation in policy development and advocacy, ensuring farmer voices are heard. Equip soybean farmers with the knowledge and tools to effectively advocate on behalf of their farming operations and industry.

Empower soybean farmers to shape government policies and regulations that impact soy and the agricultural industry.

Mobilize soybean farmers to elevate awareness and understanding of soy’s domestic and international contributions among elected officials.

Leverage Iowa Soybean Association policy and allies to proactively support legislative and regulatory priorities.

IMPERATIVES

ENGAGEMENT

Expand the quantity and quality of relationships between ISA and farmers.

DATA

Develop a farmer-owned data strategy, plan and programs that add value.

*Not funded by the soybean checkoff.

FROM THE DIRECTORS

Here are what some ISA directors had to say about the new strategic plan.

Tom Adam, ISA District 9 Director, Harper “The Iowa Soybean Association is a sizeable organization. Therefore, a strategic plan is necessary to keep everyone pulling in the same direction toward a common goal. The scope of the organization, technology, farm size, regulations and competitive forces are all constantly changing. Our strategic plan needs to keep pace with the changes."

Pat Swanson, ISA District 9 Director, Ottumwa “ We review our strategic plan every several years and make changes as our industry evolves. Farmers are challenged with low commodity prices, high input costs and increased competition from South America. This is a good time to check our compass and make sure we’re heading in the right direction to keep our farmers financially sustainable and competitive in the world market.”

Paul Kassel, ISA District 1 Director, Spencer “It’s always a good time to update a strategic plan. It keeps ISA focused on the issues that have the most impact for Iowa soybean growers and in a manner that’s relevant to today’s soybean industry. Of particular importance is advancing bioenergy solutions for a country in need of energy.”

WHY VOTE?

Soon, you’ll be receiving a ballot in your mailbox. This serves as an invitation to participate in electing the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) board of directors. Your participation in this election determines the future of checkoff investments and priorities.

HOW TO VOTE:

If you live in District 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, or 9: You’re electing ONE ISA director in your crop district and ONE At-Large director.

If you live in District 4, 5, or 8: You’re electing ONE At-Large director.

The board of directors determines how your checkoff gets invested. Whether it’s increasing market demand, agronomic and conservation research, or consumer outreach, your vote impacts the future of soybean farmer priorities.

Ballot(s):

Complete your ballot(s) and enclose it in the official ballot envelope. Do not enclose anything else in this envelope.

Soybean Producers Affidavit and Farmer Member Form:

Complete the affidavit and activate or confirm your farmer membership on the outside of the official ballot envelope. This is required and qualifies you as a voter. Place the official ballot envelope in the enclosed return envelope.

To qualify, all ballots must be postmarked no later than JULY 31, 2024.

*If you market at least 250 bushels of soybeans annually, and you don’t receive a ballot by mail by July 15, call the Iowa Soybean Association at 515-251-8640 to request a ballot.

DIRECTOR ELECTION

District 1

Neil Krummen grows soybeans, corn, alfalfa and small grains. He also raises sheep and goats, and manages a pig finishing site.

He earned a bachelor’s in ag business from Iowa State University.

He was involved in the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Iowa-Missouri Policy Leaders Fellowship and served as a voting delegate. He’s been involved in Iowa Corn Growers Association’s I-LEAD, and serves on his church board and local 4-H sheep committee.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

ISA is a great organization that works hard to help soybean farmers be more profitable, while also supporting programs to reduce soil erosion and improve water quality. I would like to help expand their support and discover new emerging markets to ensure farmers have the tools they need to succeed.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

Soybean farmers need better prices for their soybeans. There needs to be increased demand for better prices, and/or access to value added programs. The board can address this by investing in programs and businesses that reward farmers that produce soybeans sustainably.

Brent Swart and his brother Steve raise soybeans, corn, and cover crops while implementing conservation management systems with strip-till and no-till across all acres.

He earned his bachelor’s in agronomy and master’s in crop production and physiology from Iowa State University.

He currently serves as Iowa Soybean Association’s district 1 director, and serves on the the Midwest Soybean Collaborative, Iowa State Research Center Industry Advisory Council, Community State Bank and Spencer Regional Healthcare Foundation.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

I want to make sure that farmer profitability, production, and sustainability remain a priority as we invest farmer dollars.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

Profitability. ISA can continue to be a strong advocate for increasing trade and markets for our soybeans domestically and abroad. Maintaining and increasing relationships with trade partners and being a voice for farmers as our current administration sets policies and constructs a new farm bill will be important. ISA also needs to maintain its leadership in research that will continue to help farmers increase yields and profitability.

DIRECTOR ELECTION

District 2

GABE FISCUS Goldfield

Gabe Fiscus grows soybeans, corn, hay, and raises cattle. He also has a seed business.

Fiscus has a bachelor’s degree in ag studies, with an agronomy minor, from Iowa State University. He is the mayor of Goldfield, serves on the volunteer fire department, and is a member of the Izaak Walton League. He is vice president of the Wright County Cattlemen’s Board of Directors.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

I want to be a voice for area farmers, to represent their interests and concerns, and work toward solutions. It’s a chance to make a difference in my district.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now, and how can the board address it?

The big question is how we can stay ahead in the global market. The board can tackle this by sitting down and talking with political leaders. That way, we can work together to figure out how to navigate regulations, push for good trade deals, and make sure Iowa’s soybean industry stays competitive in the long run. It’s all about staying on top of things and working together to get there.

SHAYLYN LONG

Shaylyn Long and her husband Phil are beginning farmers, raising soybeans and corn in Franklin County. She earned her bachelor’s in biology and master’s in plant breeding and genetics from Iowa State University. She completed her Ph.D. in plant breeding and genetics at Purdue.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

I’m interested in serving on the ISA board to bring a voice for the beginning farmers.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

I think trade is the biggest issue facing farmers right now, specifically the decline in the export market that is decreasing soybean prices. Price is ultimately what keeps farmers growing soybeans, and if they can’t make money they won’t grow soybeans. Also, the cost of trying to start out as a young farmer is at an all-time high. Between machinery and land prices, it prevents a lot of potential new farmers from ever having the opportunity to start an operation. Even the young farmers who try to start, most times are not able to compete with the large established operations.

MIKE

YEGGE Lake Mills

Mike Yegge grows soybeans and corn in Winnebago County.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Iowa State University.

He is a member of Mason City Noon Rotary, Mason City Chamber, a volunteer fire fighter, and is involved in local and state Farm Bureau programs.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

My background in farming uniquely positions me to understand the complexities of modern soybean farming operations, enabling me to represent the diverse interests of our members effectively.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

Renewable fuels and global trade. The soybean industry is a key player in the shift toward green energy, opening up vast new markets while also requiring significant investment in research, infrastructure, and market development to fully capitalize on this potential. Also, trade partners are shifting priorities, which directly influences the demand and prices for soybeans.

Addressing renewable fuels and trade is not just about tackling current challenges; it’s about seizing future opportunities for Iowa’s soybean farmers, ensuring their growth and sustainability in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

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DIRECTOR ELECTION

District 3

Scott Frye grows soybeans and corn, raises pigs and operates a cow-calf operation.

He earned degrees in swine management from Kirkwood Community College and ag studies from Iowa State University.

Frye serves on the Independence Agriculture Education Board, the Youth Advisory Council, and is active on various Buchanan County boards and committees.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

I would like to directly impact the ag community by personally advocating for them. I want to help ensure our checkoff funds and resources are used effectively, and with producers’ best interests in mind. I would also like to help grow sales and income for soybean producers in Iowa.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybeans farmers right now, and how the can the board address it?

Market share and supply chain challenges in relation to South America. As South America continues to increase their supply, we need to find more ways to use soybeans within the U.S. and increase our exports. ISA has the ability, through research and development, to help increase market share domestically and raise awareness and promote education to consumers and producers.

Amanda Tupper and her family grow soybeans, corn, cattle and hogs in Chickasaw County.

She earned her bachelor’s and master’s in agricultural economics from University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Tupper graduated from the American Soybean Association Young Leaders Program, and is involved in her local church, FFA Alumni, pork and cattlemen associations.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

The agriculture industry needs a new generation of leaders willing to step forward and lead organizations. My vision of serving on the board involves maintaining a transparent, grassroots approach by involving local producers in the decisions affecting the industry.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

Demand. As producers, we continually strive for operational efficiency. However, the absence of somewhere to market our soybeans wipes out any gains. Low demand translates to depressed prices, raising profitability concerns for producers. Focusing on Iowa (and U.S.) soybeans’ comparative and competitive advantage in world markets would begin to address this issue, but solutions need to go beyond. Exploring new domestic and international markets is crucial to the success of our industry.

SCOTT FRYE Independence

AMANDA TUPPER Ionia

DIRECTOR ELECTION

District 6

BRIAN STRASSER

Brian Strasser and his wife Vicki are the fifth generation to live and farm the family farm. They grow soybean and corn in a no-til system and own a custom hog finishing facility.

Strasser earned a degree in computer science from Indian Hills Community College.

He has been involved in Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Ag Leaders Network, the Iowa-Missouri Policy Leaders Fellowship, and ISA Experience Class. He is vice president of the Iowa County Farm Bureau and has been involved in his local church. He works for Advanced Agrilytics.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

In the next decade, soybean farmers need the strongest leadership we can provide. My basis in agronomy promotes the future of combining conservation agronomy, carbon programs, emerging markets, and the fundamentals of farming for a profit.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

Education. Farmers need Information faster than ever from a source they can trust. We need to continue ISA programming and add efforts around farm succession planning and mentoring, benefiting young farmers with the knowledge of seasoned successful farmers.

MATTHEW WILLIMACK

Matthew Willimack grows soybeans and corn with his family.

He graduated with a bachelor’s in agricultural business from Iowa State University.

Willimack serves on the field crops advisory committee for the Iowa Farm Bureau, and has served in various roles for the Clinton County Farm Bureau.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

I have a passion for serving and representing my peers in farming. With my off-farm career at the Cedar County Coop, I bring a slightly different perspective to various conversations. I seek the best solution for the greatest number of constituents when problem solving.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

Global competition. Brazil specifically has become the largest producer of soybeans across the globe and has seemingly an endless supply of acres to further expand their production. Domestically, there is consumer desire for a more favorable carbon footprint with regard to processing, refining, and usage of any sources of diesel. How this space is regulated, incentivized, and expanded will tell the story of how the soybean farmer must compete in this space.

DIRECTOR ELECTION

District 7

LEE

BROOKE Clarinda

Lee Brooke and his wife Darla grow soybeans, corn and hay. With their son, they also have a cow-calf herd and raise pigs. They have been avid no-tillers for 30 years and started using cover crops in the last 6-7 years.

Brooke attended Iowa State University for farm operations.

He serves as a director for the Iowa Soybean Association. He has held leadership positions with Southwest Regional Rural Water District, a local cooperative, church, cattlemen’s board, and has served as a representative on the Land O’Lakes Executive Council.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

During the past three years serving on the ISA board, I have learned that one-on-one conversations with purchasers around the world are very important to continue to sell our products. I would like to continue representing soybean farmers, promoting our products and developing new and expanded markets and uses of soy.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

Crop profitability. The Iowa Soybean Association research team is always looking for ways to help farmers, not just soy farmers, be more profitable.

ALAN ZELLMER

Atlantic

Alan Zellmer grows soybeans and corn near Atlantic in Cass County. Along with crops, he and his wife work with two of their sons to operate a feedlot and cowcalf operation.

He has served as the past president of the Cass County Agricultural Education Association. He has also been involved in the community by maintaining the Cass County Fairgrounds.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

We need to have a voice on boards that represent our industry if we want to head in the direction that’s favorable to the producers.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now, and how can the board address it?

There are many, but one challenge is the labor shortage in Iowa. With fewer people growing up on farms, it’s important that ISA develop or participate in a mentorship program to allow high school students to see the reality of farming. Also, the soybean industry is on the cutting edge of opportunities like sustainable aviation fuel. We need to make sure farmers are in the position to take advantage of the growing demand and potential excess feedstocks.

DIRECTOR ELECTION

District 9

Jeff Cuddeback and his father raise soybeans, corn and cereal rye on a 10th generation farm. They also custom feed pigs.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in finance.

Cuddeback is a board member and voting delegate for the Washington County Farm Bureau and has served as county president. He is president of the Washington Community School District Foundation.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

While working in the corporate world for more than 20 years, I traveled much of the country and was amazed at the reaction when I told people I was involved in our family farm. There are a lot of forces working against those of us in agriculture, and I am passionate about preaching about farm life and production agriculture.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now, and how can the board address it?

Developing new markets. Until a cheaper plant-based protein source is developed, livestock feed will always be a major market for soybean producers. I worry about a widespread livestock disease that could trim usage significantly on short order. If that happens, we will still need soybean buyers.

Jeff Ellis raises soybeans and corn with his wife Paula and their sons. The family utilizes various conservation practices, including cover crops, no-till, buffer strips and terraces. They also have a custom spraying operation. He earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Feed and Fertilizer Marketing.

Ellis has served as a regional delegate for the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), and was involved in ISA’s Experience Class, District Advisory Council and Policy Leaders Fellowship. He has also been involved in Lee County Farm Bureau and served on the Sharon Presbyterian Church’s board of trustees.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

I enjoy networking with like-minded people to tell soybean farmers’ stories and come up with policies for the betterment of soybean farmers. ISA is an elite organization that has a voice and ability to get in front of legislators and lobby for its members.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

Acquiring new/alternative markets. I know there are some options on the horizon, and I would like to help the soybean industry get into these markets.

DIRECTOR ELECTION At Large

JACK BOYER Reinbeck

Jack Boyer grows soybeans, corn, seed corn, seed soybeans and cereal rye with his wife Marion. He also provides custom farming services for area landowners. He provides cover crop seed and applications and says conservation and improving soil health is one of his goals for the farm.

He earned his Bachelor of Science in Ag Engineering and a master’s in engineering management.

Boyer is the treasurer of the Conservation Districts of Iowa and he is also involved with the Tama County Soil and Water Conservation District, serving as chair. He is also serving as a director for Practical Farmers of Iowa.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

I am interested in serving as an ISA director because I believe that we are in exciting times with the new demand opportunities that sustainable aviation fuel will provide. I believe that my previous experience will serve me well.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

I believe that one of the major issues facing soybean farmers will be continuing to improve the markets available for distribution and uses.

VOS Pella

Rob Vos is a fourth-generation farmer, raising soybeans and corn with his wife Teri, his parents, and his children. He serves on the board for Two Rivers Cooperative in Pella and is a district sales manager for Champion Seed. Vos has served as a deacon for Faith Christian Reformed Church in Pella and has served on the board for Pella Christian Grade School. He also led the Leighton Strivers 4-H Club, and enjoyed representing the Marion County area with the Iowa Barn Foundation for 25 years as a charter member.

Why are you interested in serving on the ISA board?

I want to use my skillset and experience to serve the growers in Iowa. This includes discussing industry challenges, offering solutions and being available when needed.

What’s the biggest issue facing Iowa soybean farmers right now and how can the board address it?

Listening to growers’ concerns could help alleviate the pressures of eroding markets with inflated costs of production. Continuing discussions with government leadership is a solution to challenges with transportation and infrastructure. Designing various marketing messages and targets could generate more acceptance and use of biodiesel/biofuels.

ROB

Sen. Dan Zumbach

2024 Friend o F the i owa Soybean Farmer

BY JEFF HUTTON

Here’s a multiple-choice question: Is state Sen. Dan Zumbach a legislative leader, a lifelong farmer or a friend to those in the field?

If you answered all of the above, you’re a winner.

Zumbach, a state legislator and Delaware County farmer, was recently awarded the 2024 Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Friend of the Iowa Soybean Farmer award, presented by Cargill.

Zumbach has shown a deep understanding of agricultural issues and is a steadfast supporter of Iowa’s soybean producers. His unique perspective and distinguished career in public service has helped expand access to higher blends of biodiesel and ethanol across the state and further advanced Iowa’s ag economy.

He was first elected as a state legislator in 2012, and continues to exhibit skillful, thoughtful and solution-oriented leadership. His appointment as chairman of the Iowa Senate Committee on

Agriculture, according to those who know him, is a testament to his expertise.

t he need to advocate

The Ryan area farmer is firmly rooted in agriculture, raising soybeans, corn and hay on the family farm where he was raised.

“As a kid on the farm, you learn about responsibilities,” he says. “It sets you on a good path from Day 1 — learning to absorb and deal with risk, stress and how you work through it. An agricultural background helps you in the game of life.”

It also gives you a foundation to make positive changes for those in agriculture.

Zumbach has put those foundational skills to good work. Along with row crops, he and his family previously raised milking cows and had a farrow to finish hog operation.

Zumbach in his farm shop near Ryan.

But when he decided to get out of the livestock business and focus on row crops, Zumbach had more time on his hands.

“I like being busy and I thought I could run for the legislature while promoting agriculture,” he says.

Under his leadership, the eastern Iowa farmer masterfully managed the historic Iowa Biofuels Access Bill through the Iowa Senate, securing strong bipartisan support. The legislation is now instrumental in expanding the access to higher blends of biodiesel and ethanol across the state, further bolstering Iowa’s ag economy.

As a farmer, Zumbach is well versed on issues impacting farmers.

“ w hat i like about d an i S that he’ S a Farmer, hi S Family Farm S , S o he ha S a good background with what’ S going on in agriculture.”

Suzanne Shirbroun, ISA president

The bill received bipartisan support at the statehouse — something Zumbach points out that 82% of the time, Republicans and Democrats vote together on the issues to “do what’s right for Iowa; it’s good policy.”

On the Senate Agriculture Committee, Zumbach says he pushes for legislation that is friendly to both row crop and livestock producers — everything from transportation to manure management plans, while also focusing on reducing regulatory barriers.

Most recently, Zumbach helped to run a bill on the Senate floor addressing foreign ownership of Iowa farmland. The bill, SF2204, was signed into law by Gov. Kim Reynolds in April. The new law strengthens reporting and ownership requirements providing greater enforcement and penalties for those who do not comply.

“We want to know what they’re up to and if they break the law, they will pay,” he says.

ISA President Suzanne Shirbroun, who has known Zumbach for several years, says he’s more than deserving of the Friend of the Iowa Soybean Farmer award.

“What I like about Dan is that he’s a farmer, his family farms, so he has a good background with what’s going on in agriculture,” she says. “He has the farmer’s best interest in mind.”

Shirbroun says Zumbach approaches ag legislation with a far-seeking perspective, not someone who is myopic in their approach to policy.

“He looks at things more long term,” she says. “What stands out to me is that he’s looking several steps down the road — what’s going to impact the farmer today, tomorrow, a year from now, 5-, 10 years from now. What are the ramifications?

“He’s a thinker and helps to educate others. That’s the core of all of our concerns. He’s one of the few farmers in the Iowa Legislature at this time and we need more people like Dan.”

Continued on pg 24.

In his nomination, Zumbach was cited as “a true champion of Iowa’s agriculture industry, particularly the soybean sector. His unique perspective as an active farmer and legislator from Delaware County has allowed him to deeply understand the needs and challenges faced by Iowa’s agricultural community. He recognizes that the soybean industry is not just an economic engine for the state but also a cornerstone of its heritage and future success.”

‘a true F riend’

Not only is Zumbach an outstanding legislator, he is also a well-regarded community leader, having served on the West Delaware School Board and the Delaware County Fair Board. His involvement as a former Delaware County 4-H Leader and his contributions to organizations like the Iowa High School Athletic Association and the Ryan Lions Club highlight his dedication to nurturing the rural community spirit.

“It has truly been humbling to receive this award,” Zumbach says. “I was surprised and didn’t expect it. The award is such an honor when your peers think you’ve been helpful to an organization like (the ISA); there is great appreciation.”

Zumbach is also quick to pass the credit to his family.

“It was my mom who taught me how to be kind and gracious,” he says. “And my dad taught me to work hard and be productive.

“But I want to thank my wife because she has been by my side every step of the way,” he says. “She keeps me on the straight and narrow and helps me make sure I remember who I am.”

So, who is Dan Zumbach?

His nomination may have said it best: “He is a man of high character who has instilled the same love for agriculture and a strong work ethic in his four children, leaving a legacy in the state. Iowans and the soybean industry are unquestionably better because of Sen. Zumbach’s exceptional leadership and dedicated service. He is a true friend to Iowa’s soybean farmers.”

Contact Jeff Hutton at jhutton@iasoybeans.com

Sara Herman, sustainability product manager for renewable fuels at Cargill, joins ISA President Suzanne Shirbroun to present the 2024 Friend of the Iowa Soybean Farmer award to Iowa Senator Dan Zumbach.

“It has truly been humbling to receive this award. I was surprised and didn’t expect it. The award is such an honor when your peers think you’ve been helpful to an organization ... there is great appreciation.”

Sen.

Dan Zumbach

®

Oxbow Restoration

Brandon Iddings ISA Conservation Services Manager biddings@iasoybeans.com

Looking across Iowa, you see rolling hills of soybeans and corn bisected by small, meandering prairie streams. Along these streams, we have old river scars, where, before settlers, herds of bison wandered the prairie that we now call home. Today, these old scars, called oxbows, are slowly losing their functions due to sedimentation from increased erosion or man-made stream straightening. Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) has been involved in restoring these oxbows since 2011.

What is an oxbow?

An oxbow is an old meander of the stream that gets cut off from the main channel during the natural river cycle. Over time, these scars fill in with sediment and lose their hydraulic abilities, reducing habitat value, water quality benefits, and/or flood storage. In some cases, these benefits are lost completely.

ISA’s goal with our partners is to help farmers and landowners restore these areas and return their benefits to people and wildlife. These restorations are relatively simple and are usually in unproductive or unprofitable areas. One contractor put oxbow restoration this way: “You take a big yellow machine and dig a hole.” While that is true to a certain extent, there are other important factors to consider during a restoration project.

A successful project includes restoring the oxbow to its natural state after disconnection from the mainstream or river. We get to that natural state by digging down to the historic stream bed. Usually, this is 4-6 feet below the sediment that has filled these areas. Once you reach the post-settlement alluvium depth, water percolates into the oxbow, which connects to the water table. The sedimentation taken from these oxbows is usually fertile, black soil that can be returned to the crop fields from where it came. One farmer commented that just one year after the project, he saw a 10-20 bushel increase in the areas ISA and partners put the reclaimed soil.

Water quality benefits

Oxbows have been shown to treat an average of 62% of nitrates from tile-fed multipurpose oxbows, according to Journal of the American Water Resources Association. With access to the oxbows set at a minimum of 3:1 slope, these areas are compatible with cattle. Cattle use these pools to cool down or get water, similar to the buffalo who once used them to cool down or wallow in. On average, oxbows hold a million gallons of water in a one-acre pool. Some cities are restoring oxbows to help with flood mitigation during high flows. Around these restorations, we also try to restore another diminishing habitat, pollinator prairies.

The development of an oxbow lake.

photo on

depicts an oxbow in its original state before restoration. At times this area was swampy and unproductive, rendering it useless for grazing. However, the oxbow on the right has been successfully restored, providing an off-channel water source for livestock and creating a new wildlife habitat.

These pollinator plantings provide a stacked benefit to the oxbows by creating additional habitat and helping slow future erosion into the oxbows with their deep roots.

Habitat for the Topeka shiner

Oxbows provide critical habitat to the Topeka shiner, one of Iowa’s endangered species. These restorations act as nurseries for the fish when the river floods. According to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Species Status Assessment, Iowa’s primary conservation action regarding recovery of the Topeka shiner is habitat via oxbow restoration.

ISA has successfully completed dozens of restoration projects on private lands in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), USFWS, Syngenta and other partners. These projects have greatly benefited the species in the past 20 years, with half of restored oxbows now having Topeka shiner populations. Moreover, the Topeka shiner has been discovered in White Fox Creek in Iowa for the first time in more than 36 years.

Like the recovery of the American bison, farmers and landowners are showcasing voluntary conservation actions in their working lands to recover another species. These restorations in Iowa are one of the reasons that the USFWS in 2023 recommended the species be downlisted from endangered to threatened. This is a huge step in showcasing how the focus work of partners, agencies, landowners and others can achieve outcomes critical to species recovery.

ISA is steadily working to grow conservation and habitat efforts to create offsets that show that volunteer conservation is effective.

ISA is driven to deliver constant growth in production and profitability now and into the future as we identify challenges and create innovative sustainable solutions to enable farming for future generations. Even though we no longer have buffalo herds wandering our state, these oxbows can still provide considerable benefits to farmers, landowners, water, fish and other wildlife, just like they did all those years ago.

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.

The

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Anderson Recognized for Soybean Collaboration

AWARD GIVEN IN HONOR OF LATE SOY LEADER, FARMER

It was 2013 and Ed Anderson was excited to start in his role as the director of research at the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA). Tom Oswald, a farmer near Cleghorn and volunteer farmer-director on the ISA board, wondered how the association could drive collaboration on research projects that could deliver results to Iowa soybean farmers. The two clicked.

Honoring Oswald’s legacy

More than a decade after that meeting in the board room, Anderson scaled the steps to a stage in a Houston convention center to accept an award given in memory of the late Oswald. In the audience, Susanne Oswald, Oswald’s widow.

Anderson received the Tom Oswald Legacy Award for his significant contributions in advancing soybean research and fostering collaboration in the research community to benefit farmers. The award, given by the United Soybean Board (USB), honors Oswald, who passed away suddenly in June 2022. Oswald served on the county level, then became director and ISA president from 2014-2015. He was serving as a national director and chair of the USB audit and evaluation committee upon his passing.

“Tom Oswald was intelligent, insightful and provocative,” Anderson says. “He always challenged us (staff) — and had great, creative ideas, asking ‘what if?’ and ‘why can’t we try this?’ and ‘have you ever thought about doing this?’ Not only did it push me to be better, but I really think he did help us all to be better-er.”

“Better-er.” It was a word that Oswald used to push others to think beyond just a solution.

That focus drove Anderson and others to think more collaboratively.

While on staff at ISA, Anderson provided technical and administrative leadership to ISA and the 13-state North Central Soybean Research Program (NCSRP) farmer boards in prioritizing, funding, tracking, and delivering results from soybean checkoff funded basic and applied university research programs at more than 13 major land grant universities. He still serves as executive director of NCSRP despite retiring from ISA last year. He is also a research consultant for the Kansas Soybean Commission.

“Ed is a humble leader,” says Suzanne Shirbroun, who serves as president of ISA and NCSRP. “He is masterful in bringing people together to advance the soybean industry. It’s

| BY BETHANY BARATTA

an honor to serve on a board where I have witnessed his passion to drive soybean research forward and dream about how the advancements would be deployed on my farm.”

Anderson credits the visionary leadership of ISA CEO Kirk Leeds for the creation of NCSRP and the Iowa Soybean Research Center (ISRC) at Iowa State University (ISU) in 2014. Led by Greg Tylka, Ph.D., the Center has grown to be a model of university, checkoff, and industry partnership for advancing soybean research. In partnership with Tylka and his staff, Anderson coordinates communication and collaboration across eight state soybean research centers.

Not one to stand down from an opportunity to collaborate and build efficient processes, Anderson has provided strategic leadership to the U.S. Soybean Research Collaborative (USSRC). The project, created to expand multistate research opportunities beyond traditional ‘production’ research, addresses the entire value chain to identify new opportunities in feed, fuel, food, and fiber. A goal that ultimately benefits the short- and long-term competitiveness of U.S. soybean farmers and the industry.

He’s proud of the collaboration he’s helped foster, including the coordination of a multiregional project supported by USB currently underway at Texas Tech University researching flower abortion in soybeans. He knows that his late friend, Oswald, would have loved to see the multiregional approach to research.

“Tom was very much a driver and supporter of working together, pooling resources and expertise,” Anderson says.

A bittersweet meeting

Susanne Oswald would often wait patiently as her husband Tom and Ed talked after meetings. So it was fitting, she thought, that Anderson was selected for the USB award named in honor of Tom, the first farmer she’d ever met.

“You should have seen those two in deep conversations when they were out of meetings,” Susanne says. “They covered all sorts of topics, but they had this common love of research.”

Meeting during Commodity Classic 2024 to recognize Tom Oswald’s legacy was bittersweet.

“It’s such an honor to be recognized for this award,” Anderson says, “but I’d give 10 of these awards just to have Tom back.”

Contact Bethany Baratta at bbaratta@iasoybeans.com

“Ed excels at bringing soybean farmers and researchers together — listening to their ideas while bringing his knowledge and expertise to the discussion. These conversations result in research projects on the cutting edge, providing farmers with a greater return on investment.”

Wendy Wintersteen,

president of Iowa State University

United Soybean Board (USB) Chair Steve Reinhard presents the Tom Oswald Legacy Award to Ed Anderson at the 2024 Commodity Classic in Houston, Texas.

Photo credit: USB

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