Soybean Business January-February 2023

MN SOYBEAN

CONTENTS

P.10 P.6

Is there something in the water in Redwood County?

The southwest Minnesota farming community is growing leaders and making an impact at the county, state and national levels.

Intelligent and wry, Gary Joachim led a full life as a farmer and advocate. His colleagues remember the former MSGA president, who died of cancer in late 2022.

P.12

P.16

P.20

OFFICERS

Bob Worth President

Lake Benton, MN Lincoln County

Darin Johnson Vice President Wells, MN Faribault County

Brad Hovel Secretary Cannon Falls, MN Goodhue County

Ryan Mackenthun Treasurer Brownton, MN McLeod County

ASA DIRECTORS

Jamie Beyer Wheaton, MN Traverse County

COUNTY DIRECTORS

Hannah Anderson Barnesville, MN Clay/Wilkin Counties

Trevore Brekken Crookston, MN Polk County

Mark Brown St. James, MN Watonwan County

Steve Brusven Cottonwood, MN Yellow Medicine County

Steve Commerford New Ulm, MN Brown County

Brian Fruechte Verdi, MN Lincoln County

Bruce Nelsen Rose Creek, MN Mower County

Keith Nelsen Westbrook, MN Cottonwood County

Robert Nelsen Westbrook, MN Murray County

Tim Nelson New Richland, MN Waseca County

Lucas Peters Luverne, MN Rock County

Nathan Potucek Warren, MN Marshall County

EDITORIAL STAFF:

MSGA Executive Director

Joe Smentek

Minnesota Soybean Growers Association 888-896-9678 jsmentek@mnsoybean.com

Art Director Doug Monson Sr. Director of Integrated Marketing Ag Management Solutions 888-896-9678 dmonson@agmgmtsolutions.com

Managing Editor Drew Lyon Sr. Manager of Communications Minnesota Soybean 888-896-9678 dlyon@agmgmtsolutions.com

MSGA

to Europe and North Africa in December alongside MDA leaders to promote high-quality Minnesota soybeans and the benefits of shipping via the Port of Duluth.

The U.S. Identity Preserved movement – a checkoffsupported project – marked its global launch in November 2022. Council leaders heard to Hawaii in January to visit with buyers, tour facilities and learn more about the U.S. Identity Preserved assurance plan.

The 2022 election surprised nearly all conventional wisdom. As the dust settled, MSGA looks to seize policy opportunities in St. Paul while acknowledging roadblocks lay ahead.

ABOUT THE COVER

It’s time to recharge! MN AG EXPO returns in 2023 with a new look and more networking opportunities. One thing hasn’t changed, though: EXPO is still free and is bringing the heat to Minnesota’s farming community this winter.

George Goblish Vesta, MN Redwood County

Adam Guetter Wabasso, MN Redwood County

Christopher Hill Brewster, MN Jackson County

Jim Kukowski Strathcona, MN Roseau/LOW Counties

Michael Petefish Claremont, MN Dodge County

Joel Schreurs Tyler, MN Lincoln County

ASA YOUNG LEADERS

Tim Braun

Princeton, MN Mille Lacs County

Gary Schoenfeld Waseca, MN Waseca County

Paul Mesner and Mary Dybedahl-Mesner (2021-22 Class) Chandler, MN Murray County

Theresia Gillie Hallock, MN Kittson County

William Gordon Worthington, MN Nobles County

Tom Grundman Osakis, MN Douglas County

Corey Hanson Gary, MN Norman County

Jeremy Hanson Morristown, MN Dakota/Rice Counties

Matt Heers Owatonna, MN Steele County

Ray Hewitt Le Sueur, MN Scott/Le Sueur Counties

Jim Jirava Ogema, MN Becker/Mahnomen Counties

Kyle Jore Thief River Falls, MN Pennington/Red Lake Counties

Bob Lindemann Brownton, MN McLeod County

Andy Pulk Wannaska, MN Roseau/LOW Counties

Tim Rasmussen Rothsay, MN Otter Tail/Grant Counties

Mike Skaug Beltrami, MN Polk County

Cal Spronk Edgerton, MN Pipestone County

Jamie Seitzer St Peter, MN Nicollet/Sibley Counties

Jeff Sorenson Morgan, MN Redwood County

Lawrence Sukalski

Fairmont, MN Martin County

Doug Toreen Bird Island, MN Renville County

Rose Wendinger St. James, MN Watonwan County

Earl Ziegler Good Thunder, MN Blue Earth County

Layout Editors Kaelyn Rahe krahe@agmgmtsolutions.com

Alex Troska atroska@agmgmtsolutions.com

ADVERTISING:

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Advertising space reservations can be made by the 15th day of the month prior to 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.

Advertisements within this publication contain the opinions and information of the advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the Minnesota Soybean organizations or affiliated groups.

CIRCULATION:

Soybean Business is published six times a year on behalf of Minnesota Soybean. Comments and suggestions can be submitted to: Minnesota Soybean Growers Association, 1020 Innovation Lane, Mankato, MN 56001.

mnsoybean.org

Minnesota Soybean Growers Association Officers and ASA Directors:

Executive Director Joe Smentek traveled

Letter from the President

New Year’s Resolutions

The calendar has turned to winter, which means it’s meeting season for our farming community as we take stock of the state of our industry and debate our legislative priorities for the coming year. As we endure the winter doldrums, we also retain the optimism that, with a little luck and good fortune, warmer days and a successful growing season are within sight.

Along with our friends at Minnesota Corn, MSGA is excited to once again host MN AG EXPO in Mankato. We have a dynamic show to offer in 2023. Our exhibitor floor promises to be packed with commodity groups, financial experts, state agencies, innovators and industry leaders. We’re also excited about our slate of speakers, who will cover topics ranging from carbon discussions to a farm bill panel. There truly is something for everyone at MN AG EXPO.

We’ll also finalize our resolution process, which began in fall 2022, during our annual meeting at MN AG EXPO. These discussions are so important for us to have because it’s a resolution process that’s grassroots, and one that kickstarts the process of getting legislation done that’s going to benefit agriculture. If it wasn’t for Minnesota’s unique county board structure – which brings forth sound resolutions and direction that are then sent to MSGA and the American Soybean Association – it would be pretty devastating for our industry. We depend on these grassroots resolutions and invite all current members to our meeting to watch MSGA’s advocacy in action.

We also have plenty of fun at MN AG EXPO – all for a good cause. On a personal level, I enjoy catching up with old friends and colleagues from across Minnesota. In agriculture, you can go months or years without seeing folks and pick up right where you left off. EXPO is a fantastic time for farmers throughout our diverse state to get together about how their farming operation is going. Our After Hours Sports Carnival is a perfect chance to relax and engage with farmer-leaders and sustain MSGA’s mission; all proceeds from the Carnival help fund our policy goals and members of our “500 Club” receive special VIP benefits and supports our political action committee.

The 2023 Legislative Session will be in full swing by the time EXPO begins. We know the political environment in St. Paul is likely to present some difficulties for MSGA, but there are also plenty of opportunities to be found within those challenges. We’re very fortunate at MSGA to have a strong relationship with Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen and his team. We are confident the folks at MDA will continue defending agriculture’s interests. We’re also pleased to have MDA contributing a column to this month’s issue. In late 2022, MSGA Executive Director Joe Smentek joined MDA on a trade mission to Spain and Morocco to promote high-quality Minnesota soybean exports via the Port of Duluth. Though our priorities may diverge at times, we value the relationships we’ve built on both sides of the aisle and look forward to working together in 2023 to find solutions that keep Minnesota’s ag economy – which accounts for about 25% of our state’s GDP – thriving. Happy New Year to you all. I look forward to talking shop at MN AG EXPO!

DEPARTMENT DISPATCH

TRADE OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND

This column is the first in an occasional series in Soybean Business featuring leaders from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

Minnesota farmers are pretty much the world’s best when it comes to producing soybeans, corn, and other commodities. Our fertile soil and favorable growing conditions help us produce crops that are the envy of farmers around the world. However, Minnesota’s 5.7 million people consume far less than our farmers grow. As a result, much of our farm production must be sold to consumers in other states and countries.

International exports are especially important for us. Exports contribute over one-third to the state’s total agricultural sales. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Minnesota is the fourth-biggest agricultural exporter among all 50 states.

The USDA also reports that Minnesota farm exports support more than 59,000 jobs both on the farm and off the farm in processing, storage and transportation businesses. That generate close to $16 billion in total economic output.

These numbers are the result of hard work by the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) and federal and state partners to establish beneficial trade relationships that have resulted in increased market opportunities.

further talks with the country’s largest animal feed importer and promote soy exports via the Port of Duluth and Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System.

While the benefits may not yield immediate results, we know work like this pays off long term. From 2000 to 2020, Minnesota’s total agricultural exports more than tripled – higher than the national growth rate. Nurturing relationships is key to this growth.

For instance, our longstanding trade discussions over the years with Taiwan have resulted in many benefits for Minnesota farmers. The latest came in September 2022 when members of the Taiwanese agriculture industry and Soybean Growers representatives signed Letters of Intent outlining Taiwan’s intended purchases of $2 billion of soybean products from Minnesota suppliers.

It is important we continue to look to our established partners, like Taiwan, and developing markets, such as Spain and Morocco, for new opportunities. We have made great strides in 2022, and we look forward to partnering with the Soybean Growers to make more in-roads and forge new deals in 2023.

ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE

For example, several months ago, MDA Deputy Commissioner Andrea Vaubel, MDA International Trade Representative Jeff Phillips and MSGA Executive Director Joe Smentek participated in a USDA agribusiness trade mission to Spain. The country is the fourth largest economy in the European Union. Soybeans comprise the majority of U.S. agricultural exports to Spain – $485.9 million in soybeans and $73.8 million in soybean meal in 2021.

Members of the delegation engaged directly with potential buyers from Spain and Portugal, received in-depth market briefs from USDA and industry trade experts, and visited key sites.

Following the visit to Spain, Smentek, Vaubel, and Phillips continued onto Morocco in North Africa to

LOOK FOR COMMISSIONER PETERSEN AND THE MINNESOTA

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

TEAM AT THIS YEAR’S MN AG EXPO JAN. 18-19.

Sincerely, Bob Worth, President, Minnesota Soybean Growers Association

Thom Petersen, Commissioner, Minnesota Department of Agriculture

MSGA’s Delegate Session & Annual Meeting Thursday, Jan. 19 at 9 a.m. Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato

All MSGA members are welcome to attend!

COMMISSIONER THOM PETERSEN

Redwood County farmers are raising their profiles

By Bailey Grubish

In a state chock full of rural advocates, one southwest Minnesota county is proving to be a powerhouse in agriculture leadership.

Minnesota supports a record seven directors on the American Soybean Association. Of those seven farmer-leaders, two – George Goblish and Adam Guetter – hail from Redwood County, begging the question: What’s in the water over there? Well, it starts at the local level in a region that prides itself on soybean and corn production. In 2021, Redwood County harvested 10.7 million bushels of soybeans and, according to the 2017 Agriculture Census, accounts for 2% of Minnesota’s total ag sales.

“When I was on the county board, we were very active and we still are, and I think it’s that grassroots activity we do on the county board that leads people into the next role,” said ASA Director Goblish, who farms in Vesta with his wife, Jenifer, and their family. “Redwood and Renville are, give or take, the top producers of corn and soybeans in the state. We should be leaders in our respective organizations.”

Minnesota’s other five ASA Directors are Jamie Beyer, Chris Hill, Jim Kukowski, Michael Petefish and Joel Schreurs, respectively. From northwest to the southern swath of the state, Minnesota is well-represented.

Goblish, who served as MSGA president from 2014-2015, has done his part in motivating his peers.

“Redwood County has so many active leaders because when you see the work of your state or national leaders who live in your communities – it really builds confidence in a grower to

including the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association, which in 1963 became the first state organization to join.

Goblish was appointed to the MSGA board in 2004. He has grown his role since then and joined ASA beginning in 2014. He also sits on the World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) governing committee. Goblish appreciates the importance of giving space for other directors to hone their leadership attributes.

“I like the policy work and the leadership roles I take on in ASA and how it’s really expanded my horizons,” said Goblish, who also has been a director with the Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council.

“I also like knowing that, at the end of the day, I helped the American farmer. The work we do is important. And, hopefully the next generation finds it important as well. I’m glad Adam is stepping up, I think he’s

He interest in learning more on the national side expanded further when he replaced Bill Gordon on the ASA board in 2021.

On the SFY trip, Guetter saw how his checkoff dollars were invested. As a farmer from southwest Minnesota, he doesn’t have direct relationships with the end users in China or Vietnam; through this trip and ASA he is able to make those connections.

“It’s enjoyable to be an ASA director,” Guetter said. “The advocacy work is really rewarding. You get to see a lot of the steps and the procedures you usually don’t get to see, whether it be lawmaking, or rulemaking or some of the trade issues that come up that kind of pass by the mainstream media. To see those first-hand is really rewarding.”

Goblish sits on ASA’s executive committee and is past chair of the SoyPac committee, which helps raise funds for donations to candidates who’ve supported ASA. He said this fundraising role helps ensure ASA has a voice in policy discussions. He’s currently chair of Commodity Classic committee and is a liaison to the Soy Aquaculture Alliance.

Above all, Goblish appreciates the friendships he’s forged in ag leadership.

“It’s very rewarding,” Goblish said of serving on ASA. “The people I meet, it’s kind of a brotherhood, you know, whether you’re male or female you’re a part of something that’s important. You meet lifelong friends.”

Guetter serves on the Trade Policy and International Affairs Advocacy team, which works with international trade rules and regulations. In September 2022, he attended a buyers’ conference of the Americas in South America. At the conference, he connected with end users and sat on a panel, answering questions about sustainability practices, crop conditions, a crop report from his area of Minnesota and other agriculture-related questions.

Volunteering on boards has

presented Guetter with numerous opportunities and pushed him to continue to be involved in the soybean industry beyond farming. He admires those leaders who served before him.

“There’s a lot of encouragement for the younger leaders in ASA,” said Guetter, who enrolled in ASA Soybean Leadership College. “I use the words ‘senior’ and ‘freshmen’ leaders. We need our senior leadership for their experience. We also have a nice blend of young leaders coming in, too, so we can not only learn from the experiences of the more senior guys, but we can also get the energy and the encouragement and the opinion of the younger guys on the board. It’s nice to get that blend when you have plenty of senior leaders there to help you and guide you down the right path, but then you have the younger group of future leaders, too.”

Learning opportunities

The prestigious ASA Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program is another platform that Redwood County has used to expand their leadership opportunities.

Redwood County farmers Jeff and Kelli Sorenson went through the ASA leadership program. The program

started in 1984 and continues to set a bar for leadership, with many of the MSGA and MSR&PC directors having completed the training, including Guetter and his wife, Melanie. The leadership development course brings agriculture leaders from around the nation to participate in a two-phase experience and a third phase for a select few for training on policy and legislation.

“When I was a young leader, it was always encouraged for my wife to be part of it,” Guetter said.

“My wife said that a lot of the leadership training she received at the Young Leader Program, she uses in her day-to-day life on and off the farm. She came back and gave a report to her boss, and they were just ecstatic that she went to the training, she went to a leadership program that an organization like ASA provides to the farmers.”

Jeffrey is an agronomist at Legend Seeds and serves on the MSGA board and several MSGA committees. He’s also chair of the Redwood County Corn and Soybean Growers Board. Kelli is an agriculture banker. Jeffrey applied for the program after being encouraged by fellow board members to take the next step in his leadership growth.

“From a farming aspect, it’s been good,” Sorenson said. “We both probably see a little bit more of what’s going on the farm and how we can change things.”

A Well-Respected Man

Gary Joachim led selflessly, promoted young leaders

Over the course of nearly three decades in soybean leadership, Gary Joachim never forgot the purpose of serving.

“Gary was very dedicated to the Soybean Association and the soybean industry,” said Minnesota farmer Mike Yost, Joachim’s longtime friend and colleague. “I always respected that about him – he was always looking out for the greater good.”

Joachim died in November 2022 at the age of 73 after battling metastasized colon cancer. The Steele County farmer retired from the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association after a leadership career that spanned nearly 30 years (1991-2018), making Joachim one of the organization’s longest-serving directors. “I want other people to have the opportunity to be leaders,” Joachim told Soybean Business upon his retirement in 2018.

That was Joachim’s nature, said former MSGA President Ed Hegland. He gave emerging leaders a boost whenever he could.

“He saw something in me and was quite influential to me,” Hegland said. “I feel indebted to him because he sent me on a path that led to leadership. That was

Hegland, who bonded with Joachim during a three-week trade mission to Beijing in 1998, described his colleague as highly intelligent and observant.

“He was one of the smartest people I’ve ever known,” Hegland said. “Gary was a quick learner and very good at reading people.”

Making changes

In 1998, while serving as MSGA vice president, Joachim spoke in St. Paul to skeptical lawmakers about the benefits of biodiesel. A self-effacing man, Joachim shrugged off his status as the first biodiesel advocate to testify at

the Capitol.

“If it wouldn’t have been me, it would’ve been someone else. The time was just right for me to be in a position to testify,” he said in 2018. “Biodiesel was a long time coming, and I think it’s been one of the single biggest things we did that put money back into soybean farmers’ pockets.”

Joachim, a voracious reader and history buff, later served as MSGA’s final president of the 20th century. During his tenure, MSGA helped prevent a moratorium on the construction of large, new livestock facilities.

“That was probably the highlight of my time as president,” Joachim said. “It showed that when we stand together, we can really make a change on the policy side of things.”

MSGA’s advocacy push also led the USDA to reverse a decision that would have increased Minnesota’s Posted County Prices by five cents per bushel, saving the state’s farmers $30 million.

“

1973 and worked the land in his hometown for the next 47 years.

“He was somewhat unique for those of us involved in ag leadership,” Yost said. “Most of have ag degrees.”

Joachim had a wry sense of humor, developing a reputation for delivering witty one-liners with a deadpan expression.

“I could’ve written a whole notebook full of Gary’s (expressions),” Hegland said.

during his leadership career.

“To me, being in an organization like MSGA, it’s a people business,” he said. “It’s the relationships you make that enable you to be effective.”

Joachim, who was replaced by Matt Heers as Steele County’s director on MSGA, farmed in Owatonna until 2020 and continued to stay abreast of MSGA news.

“He was someone people looked to for input and guidance, and they respected his opinion,” Yost said. “Gary wasn’t out leading the charge, but he was one of those people who you looked to for counsel and advice.”

‘A player’

Joachim majored in psychology from the University of Minnesota and later served in the Army National Guard. He returned to the farm in

Following his year as president, Joachim brought his policy knowledge to Washington, D.C., where he served nine years on the American Soybean Association. He later sat on ASA’s Executive Committee and testified on Capitol Hill to lawmakers on issues related to biofuels and promoting trade with China.

“Gary was a player on the policy side of things at both the national and state levels,” said Yost, who served as ASA president in 1998-99.

Like many volunteer directors, Joachim said he treasured the memories and friendships he made

“I’ll always be interested in what MSGA is doing,” he said. “It’s been a great organization to be involved in.”

Joachim last spoke with Soybean Business in spring 2022, when he reflected on the death of former President Craig Weir. Now, Joachim’s colleagues are paying tribute to a composed, cerebral leader.

“Gary was the kind of quality of person that MSGA attracts,” Yost said.

Joachim is survived by his wife, Sherry Hill, and eight siblings. Donations in his name will go to the Owatonna Parks and Recreation Memorial Bench Fund, Community Pathways Food Fund and the Steele County Historical Society.

Just a few weeks before he passed, Joachim, who was in hospice care, received a visitor, Hegland. The two former MSGA presidents talked about old times, family, travels shared and mutual friends from the soybean world. They also laughed.

“I’m so glad we had a chance to visit one last time,” Hegland said. “Gary’s sense of humor was still there.”

By Drew Lyon Minnesota Soybean Growers Association

Executive Director Joe Smentek embarked on a trade mission for soy during the holiday season.

In late November and early December, Smentek joined more than 30 agribusinesses and farm organizations on a trade mission to Madrid, Spain, sponsored by USDA. Members of the delegation engaged with potential buyers from Spain, received in-depth market briefs from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) and industry trade experts and participated in site visits.

Spain is the thirdlargest European Union destination for agricultural products from the United States. The Iberian Peninsula is a major gateway to Europe for agricultural products from the U.S., with numerous ports of entry, including Lisbon and Valencia, Spain. It is the second-largest feed producer in the EU and second-largest pork exporter after Germany. Spain is also the third-biggest soy crusher in Europe and home to Cargill’s first crushing plant. U.S. soybean leaders have a trade relationship with Spain that dates back to 1960. The country now consumes about 5.2 million tons of soymeal.

During a meeting with Spanish

FILLING A NEED

farmers, Smentek was told that the biggest hurdle facing the country’s agriculture industry is a lack of lobbying presence at the legislative level.

“To me, that drove home the importance of groups like MSGA and why farmers should join,” he said.

“Having a presence during policy discussions is so important, and Spanish farmers don’t have that kind of lobbying infrastructure in place.”

Following the visit to Spain, Smentek joined Minnesota Department of Agriculture leaders on a trade mission to Morocco in North Africa to promote soy exports via the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System. The delegation visited with the country’s National Agronomy Research Institute, which recently started a soybean research institute.

Smentek learned that Moroccan poultry farmers are interested in increasing use of soybeans in feed

and how Minnesota’s essential amino acid (EAA) profile can benefit their flocks. On the final day, Smentek and MDA Deputy Commissioner Andrea Vaubel visited local feed mills. Because Morocco has no crushing facilities, feed mills import all ingredients, including soymeal.

“We are working to highlight Minnesota soybeans as a solution, and Duluth as the preferred port,” he said.

“Duluth could have some key advantages for North African buyers with their ports only able to handle vessels the same size that Duluth can.”

Smentek, who represented the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council, said the visit was part of Council’s “sweat equity” projects aimed at developing new markets and highlight the benefits of shipping out of the Port of Duluth. During the trade mission, Smentek brought copies of the November-December 2022 issue of Soybean Business, which featured a cover story promoting soy exports via the Great Lakes.

“With opportunities to now ship from Duluth, we heard lots of excitement about sourcing ingredients from Minnesota,” Smentek said. “The majority of soymeal comes from the U.S., but all three (feed mills) are growing and looking to diversify their supply chains.”

Brought

KEEPING THE FUTURE OF SOYBEANS BRIGHT

From researching new uses for soybeans to identifying new markets for U.S. soy, the soy checkoff is working behind the scenes to create new opportunities and increase profits for soybean farmers. 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

to you by the soy checkoff. © 2018 United Soybean Board. Our Soy Checkoff and the Our Soy Checkoff mark are trademarks of United Soybean Board. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

MSGA executive director promotes Minn. soybeans in Spain, Morocco

Committed to Conservation: Minn. Farmer Gains

‘Peace of Mind’ from MAWQCP

Murray County farmer Bryan Biegler and the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP) are a perfect soil health match.

‘It was a simple process to sign up,” said Biegler, a past president of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association. “The (MAWQCP) gives you a guideline on how well you’re doing with practices on your farm and a peace of mind that you’re doing the right things on your farm to improve soil health.”

Biegler was an early convert to the MAWQCP. He joined the ag community in advocating for legislative support for the program. He enrolled in August 2016 and now sits on the MAWQCP Advisory Committee. Biegler became certified because he was determined to improve his soil management practices after witnessing too much erosion in his fields on the fourth-generation farm that he operates alongside his wife, Lauren, and their three children.

“I thought, ‘I got to make a change,” said Biegler, who’s been farming since 1992. “That was my starting point and it’s been a good program.”

The Bieglers experimented with strip tillage for a year and decided to go all in. The Bieglers use strip till, vertical tillage and no-till on all their acres and use cover crops as much as they can.

“To be honest, it was a fairly easy process to go through,”

said Biegler, who grows corn and soybeans. “I was doing a lot of the practices already, just needed a couple tweaks. It was pretty seamless.

The MAWQCP connects farmers with local conservation district experts to identify and mitigate any risks their farm poses to water quality. Producers going through the certification process have priority access to financial assistance. After being certified, each farm is deemed in compliance with new water quality laws and regulations for 10 years. The MAWQCP currently has five endorsements available to certified producers: Climate Smart Farm, Soil Health, Integrated Pest Management, Wildlife and Irrigation Water Management.

“There are so many benefits to enrolling,” Biegler said. “I’m glad to give guidance and stay involved.”

More than 1,285 producers are currently certified in the voluntary program, covering more than 940,000 certified acres and implement more than 2,500 new conservation practices. These practices reduce 43,000 tons of sediment each year, 127,000 tons of soil and cutting nitrogen loss by nearly 50%.

Gov. Tim Walz and the MDA plan to certify one-million acres of farmland in Minnesota in 2023.

“This program works on every level,” Gov. Walz said at the 2022 MN AG EXPO, “and it works because producers are at the center of it, producers help write it and producers help execute it.”

Farmers and landowners interested in becoming water quality certified can contact their local Soil and Water Conservation District or visit MyLandMyLegacy.com.

IT’S NOT JUST YOUR LAND. IT’S YOUR LEGACY.

The Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program rewards farmers like you for what you do best, taking care of your land and its natural resources.

To get started and learn more, contact your local soil and water conservation district or go to: MyLandMyLegacy.com

Program Manager Brad Jordahl Redlin and the MAWQCP are stationed in Booth 25 at MN AG EXPO. Biegler and Minnesota Corn will be visiting with growers at Booth 55.

A ‘MOVEMENT’ BEGINS

US Identity Preserved Holds International Unveiling

By Soybean Business Staff

The U.S. Identity Preserved brand is now officially a global entity.

In November, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) met in Vietnam with buyers and food producers to introduce its new international mark that designates premium crops with verifiable origins and builds worldwide awareness of the assurance plan that spotlights the superior products derived from the U.S. system.

“(SSGA) is here to announce a significant certification advancement for food manufacturers to consider when purchasing ingredients for their products,” Executive Director Eric Wenberg said during a livestreamed

YouTube event from Ho Chi Minh City. “We are excited to make this first official announcement in Vietnam because this is an important and growing market for high-quality foods that require high-quality ingredients.”

The U.S. Identity Preserved quality assurance plan and brand mark symbolizes a landmark advancement in the verification of trust, traceability and value for food manufacturers, processors and exporters. Since the brand was unveiled to an American audience in December 2021, a dozen U.S. companies have joined the program and are using the mark – with several more companies currently going through the application and qualification process.

“There’s real excitement about having a mark represent a very special segment of U.S. agriculture and business,” SSGA Manager of Strategic Programs Shane Frederick said. “The mark has purpose and value and assurances that back them up.”

The event attracted 75 officials from across the industry, including the American Soybean Association’s World Initiative in Soy and Human Health (WISSH),

which brought a contingent to Vietnam from Myanmar. As well, the international launch was co-sponsored by the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council, Wisconsin Marketing Board and Vinamilk, Vietnam’s largest dairy company.

“The U.S. Identity Preserved assurance plan and brand mark represents the strict protocols and careful attention to detail that are followed by processors and exporters of high-quality, identity preserved soybeans and grains from the United States,” said Nguygen Quoc Khanh, executive director of research and development with Vinamilk.

“These are assurances of quality and food safety that Vinamilk seeks as we purchase the specific varieties of ingredients we require to efficiently manufacture our own high-quality, consistent products that our customers love.”

The following day, 50 additional industry leaders attended the follow-up event, as SSGA offered more presentations on the U.S. Identity Preserved system and went further in depth on the quality, characteristics and performance customers can expect from specialty soybeans and grains from the United States. The program was emceed by Hoa Huynh, SSGA’s Southeast Asia

technical adviser. Panels featured buyers, industry leaders, SSGA staff and Michigan farmer David Williams, who has grown identity preserved soybeans on his sixthgeneration farm. Officials from the USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service in Ho Chi Minh City also attended.

“Those of us who grow identity preserved field crops understand the importance of providing consistent, high-quality products to our customers,” said Williams, a United Soybean Board director.

“It starts on the farm where we put extra work into our production to preserve a variety’s identity.”

Moving the needle SSGA welcomed two new members to its board of directors during the group’s annual meeting in December, as Jake Noll of Minnesota-based Richland IFC and Chuck Kunisch of Michigan Agricultural Commodities were elected to two of three open seats.

For the other open seat, Darwin

Rader of Michigan-based Zeeland Farm Services was reelected to the eight-member board. Bob Sinner of North Dakota-based SB&B Foods was selected to chair the SSGA board for a second time. Nerstrand farmer Keith Schrader, a former Council director who grows identity preserved soybeans, represents MSR&PC on SSGA and will remain on the board for another year.

“Keith has been a huge asset to SSGAA and we’re grateful he’s continuing to represent Minnesota on our board for another year,” Wenberg said.

“We greatly appreciate the support of MSR&PC since our inception. Minnesota farmers and the soy checkoff are helping us move the needle on Identity Preserved.”

To learn more, visit USidentitypreserved.org.

Aloha: Council co-sponsoring specialty ag conference in Hawaii

The work advancing Identity Preserved has only just begun, as SSGA looks ahead to hosting its next global gathering: the Identity Preserved International Summit Jan. 11-13, 2023, in Honolulu, Hawaii. The Summit, presented by SSGA and co-sponsored by MSR&PC, will include educational seminars, networking opportunities, agricultural tours and more. Scheduled at the peak of shipping season and the beginning of the buying season for U.S. Identity Preserved crops, the Identity Preserved International Summit will bring new experiences and opportunities to all participants.

“The Identity Preserved brand is more than merely a mark,” Wenberg said. “It’s a movement to advance food traceability.”

WISHH

WISHH

By Kristeena Thisius

After millions of dollars spent on advertisements, polling and campaigning, the balance of power among the 201 seats in the Minnesota Legislature essentially came down to a single seat. When the dust settled following the 2022 election, House Democrats retained their 70-64 margin and gained the crucial seat needed to flip the Senate in their favor to a 34-33 majority. With Gov. Tim Walz winning reelection, Democrats mostly defied expectations and regained complete control of the Legislature for the first time since 2014.

The scene has changed in St. Paul.

“The November election will have a drastic effect on the way St. Paul is going to be organized politically the next two to four years,” said Cory Bennett, Minnesota Soybean Growers Association lobbyist.

“To sum up the Minnesota election, it all came down to that one seat.”

Bennett said voter turnout was a key factor in the unanticipated results, coming in as the second highest turnout in Minnesota history at 66.6%.

“Minnesotans were invigorated to vote,” Bennett said.

Bennett said this year’s session will be focused primarily on setting the 2024-2025 biannual budget, but he also anticipates a potential bonding bill, tax bill and other one-time “money” use.

“The potential for a recession will certainly be a conversation starter this session,” he said.

The DFL-controlled legislature will begin the session Jan. 3 at noon. For MSGA, 2023 could be a year of defending existing policies and pushing back against legislation that could hurt agriculture; however, policy opportunities remain.

“While the election didn’t turn out as the experts thought, we (MSGA) are a nonpartisan organization,” said Joe Smentek, MSGA executive director. “MSGA will still continue to work hard to further our agenda for Minnesota soybean farmers, find opportunities and do our best with the cards we’re dealt.”

Smentek adds 68 new legislators will be headed to St. Paul come January.

“That’s over one-third of our entire legislature. That’s a tremendous

turnover,” he said. “But at the end of the day, we don’t get to choose who they send to work with us. We have to be ready to work with both sides of the aisle.”

Dividing lines

The chairs for the House and Senate ag committees have been selected, but due to the stark urban-rural divide between Democrats and Republicans, both chairs – Rep. Samantha Vang and Sen. Aric Putnam – do not stem from rural Minnesota.

“The House ag chair is from Brooklyn Center and the Senate ag chair is from St. Cloud,” Bennett said. “But you cannot blame the majority for this. We have a very rural-urban divide, and that’s just where the seats are coming from.”

MSGA President Bob Worth is hopeful that Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, who was appointed for another term by Gov. Walz, will help serve as a liaison between farmers and lawmakers.

“We’re so fortunate that we have a commissioner that is so willing to work with us,” said Worth, who farms by Lake Benton. “There are a lot of states that don’t have the privilege that we do. We are so honored to have that relationship with Commissioner Petersen and know he will be an advocate for rural Minnesota and soybean farmers.”

Smentek says the longstanding relationship with Petersen will also be important as MSGA sets its eyes on a record $17.6 billion dollar surplus, which is expected to increase and will surely play large role in the tone of the 2023 Legislative Session.

“Looking at our offense, MSGA will be looking at opportunities for valueadded agriculture,” Smentek said. “With the size of the surplus, we see this as an opportunity to showcase the investments our farmers make in value-added.”

Other MSGA priorities for the 2023 Legislative Session include farmer tax relief; combating pesticide restrictions and regulatory overreach; increased funding for international export marketing programs; easing weight restrictions on state roads; and upgrading infrastructure across Greater Minnesota.

“Every legislative session comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities,” Worth said. “MSGA has a strong membership base, dedicated farmer-leaders, and expert lobbyists and staff. We’re ready to find policy solutions where we can find them, and do our best to protect the interest of our state’s soybean farmers.”

MSGA President Bob Worth (right) has worked on state and federal agriculture issues with Gov. Tim Walz (left) dating back to the governor’s dozen years as a U.S. congressman. Worth and MSGA will depend on those established relationships in 2023.

MN AG EX PO

Mank ato

Bigger & Better: MN AG EXPO Returns

January 18-19, 2023

It’s showtime!

Mayo

Clinic Health System Event Center Mankato,

MN

MN AG EXPO returns this year with a robust agenda that promises to bring lasting connections and conversations among the agriculture community.

“We’ve been working hard over the past year to find new ways to engage with our industry and think differently about how to hold a dynamic trade show in 2023,” said Joe Smentek, executive director of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association. “Our team has worked with our industry partners and sponsors to create a show that the farming community can learn from and have fun with.”

Minnesota’s premier indoor agriculture trade show is held Jan. 18-19, 2023, at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato. The Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA), which co-sponsors MN AG EXPO, and MSGA are holding their annual meetings and finalizing 2023 policy resolutions on Wednesday, Jan. 18 and Thursday, Jan. 19, respectively.

“The grassroots resolution process is very important to what we do at MSGA,” President Bob Worth said. “Those policies are our guidebook for the year and help us when we meet with the American Soybean Association during their meeting at Commodity Classic.”

More than 80 exhibitors will pack the trade show floor, covering all the relevant topics and business that matter to agriculture, from research to regulations to financial experts.

Other panelists also include a discussion on carbon credits, the upcoming Farm Bill; a Minnesota Ag in the Classroom learning session; and nitrogen and water quality panels. Legislative and agency leaders, including Gov. Tim Walz and Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, are once again expected to attend MN AG EXPO and visit with farmer-leaders.

“The 2023 Legislative Session will

Big projects are under construction for the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council in 2023! Stop by Booth 23 at this year’s MN AG EXPO to learn how the Council is building new partnership to promote soy-based products all under one roof.

MSGA directors from across the state will also be available to discuss policy issues and concerns.

have just started, so this will be a great chance for our farmers to visit with elected officials and the Department of Agriculture,” Smentek said. “We’re looking forward to welcoming leaders from both parties to come to EXPO and learn more about the issues that are important to our organizations.”

On EXPO eve on Jan. 17, MSGA will welcome directors and industry supporters to its hospitality suite at Mankato’s Hilton Garden Inn. A bus carrying northern Minnesotabased farmers will ensure all farming regions are accounted for during EXPO.

MSGA will hold its annual fundraiser Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. at the Loose Moose Salon in Mankato. This year’s theme is “EXPO After Hours: Sports Carnival.” For $25, attendees can support MSGA’s political action committee – a program that directs funds toward candidates who have supported farm-friendly policies – by playing games, visiting with farmer-directors, industry leaders and bidding on silent auction items.

“What’s really fun about EXPO is we’re all gathering together as a community and preparing for the year ahead,” Worth said.

TAX TOOLS

MN AG EXPO keynote speaker to talk financial freedom

By Drew Lyon

Marissa Nehlsen is arriving to this year’s MN AG EXPO with a goal. The financial expert, who specializes in ag clients, wants to help farmers ease their tax burden on the road to financial prosperity.

“I know no farmer who says, ‘I just love paying taxes,’” she said. “And I’ve never met a farmer or rancher who went broke because they had too much cash, but I do know plenty of farmers and ranchers who went broke because they didn’t have enough cash.”

Nehlsen, CEO of Freedom Financial Group, will offer the agricultural industry her expert advice on how farmers can better manage their finances as part of her keynote address at MN AG EXPO. Nehlsen will speak during the “Food for Thought” on Thursday, Jan. 19 at 12:30 p.m.

Often times, she said, farmers pay more in taxes simply because of a lack of understanding complex tax laws. Over her 30year career, she’s developed tools and knowledge that she passes onto farmers.

“This EXPO event is great timing, because farmers can get their year started right,” she said.

Nehlsen’s presentation will address several topics, including communication – “who’s on your team, why is it important, and five key questions: why, what, who, how and when. That sets the intention,” she said.

Attendees of Nehlsen’s presentation will be able to access digital copies that will help growers conquer the “core four”: Wealth management, risk management, strategic tax management and small business and estate management. Those assets are also available on her website, marissanehlsen.com.

“We’re going to give farmers actual tools,” Nehlsen said. “When they walk away from my presentation, they’re going to have tools in the room –downloadable workbooks as well as physical workbooks where they can take this back – where they can build their team and use it with their team.”

A successful farming operation, Nehlsen said, succeeds when everyone’s working as a team and knows their functions.

Oftentimes, farmers are burdened by responsibilities and can forget to rely on their team.

“We need to collectively ask the question: Who’s on our team and who can help us, because farmers are so busy on a day-to-day basis,” she said. “Farming is a way of life for people. This isn’t some business you buy in town, right?”

‘A catalyst for your legacy’ Nehlsen knows the hardships of farming all too well. A native of Max, N.D., Nehlsen grew up on a farm that had been homesteaded by her grandparents after they emigrated from Ukraine. During the 1980s farm crisis, her farm land was auctioned off piece-by-piece, devastating her father. She’s never forgotten the look on her father’s face when his worst financial fears were realized.

“It changes the essence of a man when it goes down on your watch,” she said.

Nehlsen’s speaking engagement keeps her on the road for more than 100 dates annually.

When Nehlsen spoke with Soybean Business, she was minutes away from passing by her childhood home, always a bittersweet feeling, she said.

“I look down the road where my farm used to be and it gives me a new sense of purpose to say to the families I meet with every day, ‘This is why this important,’” she said. “We can’t let this part slip away. We must do better collectively as a community to support each other. Generationally, we need you, we can’t feed the world without you. What I do is educate and empower and equip you.”

Nehlsen’s presentation appeals to multiple generations of farmers. She also stays for Q&A – for as long as it takes, she said.

“I work today because I get to. For me, this lights up my life,” she said. “I stay until the last question.”

Marissa’s Big EXPO questions

• How do I discover my purpose?

?• How do I show up as my best self in my relationships?

• How do I face fear or deal with confrontation?

• How do I walk with grace through life transitions?

• How do I live a more authentic life?

• How do I design an intentional life where my values meet my vision?

• How do I overcome adversity and live an empowered life?

picture.

“There are huge opportunities for them to collect on yield and do those marketing strategies, but they have to have a team around them,” she said.

Nehlsen has spoken throughout the Midwest and had family in Windom, but has never spoken in Mankato before.

“You can be a catalyst for your legacy,” she said. “The heart of a Minnesota farmer is a beautiful thing.”

Stop by and visit us at the MN Ag Expo, booth #52, January 18-19, 2023.

Nehlsen is optimistic about the farm economy, so long as farmers keep their eye on the big

Marissa Nehlsen believes in the 3 Ds: Do it, dump it and delegate it.

Nehlsen is also host of her own podcast, “Live Life Rich,” that tackles topics related to spiritual, emotional, relational and financial matters.

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

MN AG EXPO Farming is in Session

By Drew Lyon

and Minnesota Soybean Growers Association, MN AG EXPO covers the gamut in agriculture, from carbon 101 to financial planning to farm safety. Over the course of two days, Minnesota’s marquee winter agriculture gathering sets its sights on the future by offering the farming community networking opportunities; educational sessions; a full trade show floor; dynamic speakers; fundraising events – and more!

Here are just a few of the session highlights attendees can expect to enjoy this January.

Home

Nitrogen Smart Session: Jan. 17 from 12-3 p.m./3 -6 p.m. & Jan. 19 @ 12 p.m.

Two of the advanced sessions for Nitrogen Smart will be offered in conjunction with MN AG EXPO. To begin MN AG EXPO, the “A Deep Dive Into the 4Rs” and “Adapting N Management to Climate” sessions will be offered consecutively on Tuesday, Jan. 17 in the Reception Hall at the Mayo Clinic Event Center in Mankato. A free meal will be offered at 11:30 a.m., followed by the Deep Dive session at 12:00 p.m. The Adapting to Climate session will begin at 3 p.m. following a short break. Attendees may attend one or both sessions, however we are requesting pre-registration. To register, visit z.umn. edu/ANSMankato.

The Deep Dive Into the 4Rs session is a three-hour

Learning Session # 1 Carbon Panel: Jan. 18 @ 8 a.m. Carbon sequestration is a hot topic in agriculture. Leading experts will discuss the benefits and break down concerns surrounding storing carbon and how farmers can potentially get paid for carbon credits. Drew Kessler of Houston Engineering will moderate the panel, which includes Minnesota Corn Growers Association Director Bryan Biegler, Minnesota farmer A.J. Krusemark, Matthew Berger from Gislason & Hunter and other industry leaders. Following the discussion, the panel will take questions from the audience.

Minnesota Ag in the Classroom Hands-On Learning Session: Jan. 18 & 19 @ 10 a.m. Discover how you can help Minnesota’s K-12 students gain knowledge and understanding about agriculture! Meet the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom (MAITC) Team and learn about the Program’s mission: Agriculture is valued by all.

“Our goal is to provide attendees what our program is able to offer educators and K through 12 students and how (the ag community) can assist us,” MAITC Education Specialist Sue Knott said. “The hands-on part is fun.”

a proud sponsor of MAITC for more than 30 years. Coming out of the pandemic, MAITC has found ways to merge virtual with in person learning.

“Those two COVID school years were crazy,” Knott said, “but we think we’re stronger than ever.”

Afternoon Animal Ag Panel: Jan. 18 @ 2:30 p.m. Soybeans, corn and livestock are a match made in farming heaven. More than 70% of soybeans grown in the U.S. are used for animal feed. Poultry is number one livestock sector consuming soybeans, followed by hogs, dairy, beef and aquaculture. Nearly 40% of corn grown in Minnesota is used for animal feed, including cattle, dairy cows, turkey and pigs. This panel brings together leaders from Minnesota’s top livestock groups – the Minnesota Beef Council, Minnesota Turkey Research & Promotion Council; Minnesota Pork Board and Minnesota Milk Producers Association – to discuss how Minnesota agriculture works together to feed the world.

CPR Training sponsored by 40 Square Cooperative Solutions: Jan 18 & 19 @ 9 a.m.

booth.

look at different fertilizer types, application timing and the placement that goes with them. Approximately half the session is devoted to a detailed discussion on N rate. Attendees will also hear about the appropriate investment in and use of inhibitors and as well as under what circumstances sidedressing/topdressing N pays. The Adapting N Management to Climate session starts by looking at climate normals and the implications of temperature and moisture on the nitrogen cycle. Average recommendations are based on average conditions, so this session discusses how management needs to be adapted to conditions that are not average. In addition, time is explored as a factor in how nitrogen is managed. CEUs will be available for both of these sessions.

Participants will complete hands-on activities that can be immediately implemented in K-12 educational settings. These activities will serve as a starting point for participants to brainstorm opportunities to grow agricultural literacy in their community.

Attendees will receive free resources from the MAITC program to share with educators in their community. Access to free standards-based lessons, activities, videos and more will be shared.

MAITC was founded in 1985. The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council has been

In the event of a cardiac emergency, time is of the essence. When a person has a cardiac emergency, survival depends on immediately receiving CPR from someone nearby. Learning a few basic steps can make the difference. CPR, especially if performed immediately, can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival.

If you are called on to give CPR in an emergency, you will most likely be trying to save the life of someone you love: a child, a spouse, a parent or a friend as over 70% of out-ofhospital cardiac events happen at home. This is an especially important skill when help can be far away in a rural community.

Sponsored by the Minnesota Corn Growers Association

is where the soy is: Farmer-leaders from both MSR&PC and MSGA will be discussing checkoff investments and legislative issues in Minnesota Soybean’s

Come for a hands-on lesson sponsored by EXPO exhibitor 40 Square Cooperative Solutions and learn a lifesaving skill. No previous CPR experience or knowledge is required to attend. “40 Square offers health plans to Minnesota’s ag community and we’re proud to support this event and help attendees stay safety first at EXPO,” Executive Director Amanda Beavens said.

Farm Bill Learning Session, Jan. 19 @ 2 p.m. The current Farm Bill was signed into law by then-President Trump in 2018 and expires in September 2023. Commodity groups have spent more than a year conducting learning sessions, developing priorities and meeting with lawmakers and USDA officials. During this AG EXPO panel, leaders from across agriculture, including American Soybean Association Executive Director of Government Affairs Christy Seyfert, will be appearing to discuss the policies they wish to see included in the Farm Bill. Minnesota Farmers Union President Gary Wertish and Nation Corn Growers Association Public Policy Director Colleen Willard round out the panel.

Harvest More Savings with Propane

New propane grain dryers are a game changer on the farm. They can reduce over-drying of crops to produce more evenly dried, higher-quality grain. And compared to in-field drying methods, they also can eliminate crop damage from weather or wildlife.

DATA DEEP DIVE

Checkoff-supported researchers to highlight projects at MN AG EXPO

By Drew Lyon

He may hail from Texas, but Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council Director of Research (MSR&PC) David Kee has found one reason to enjoy Minnesota winters.

The cold months allow him to talk shop (indoors) with growers and industry leaders to discuss challenges and lessons learned from the past growing season, along with spotlighting checkoff-funded projects from MSR&PC.

“I get to visit with farmers and that makes me happy,” Kee said. “Giving updates on our projects, how we can help farmers – that’s one of the things I love about my job.”

are long-term investments, but they all share a common mission: improving farmer profitability.

“We’re all farmers and pay into the soybean checkoff like everyone else,” said MSR&PC Director Kris Folland, who co-chairs the production action team with fellow Director Pat Sullivan. “We take it very seriously. We’re very fiscally responsible and demand that everyone give us the most bang for our buck for research dollars.”

Adam Alford, assistant agronomy professor at Southwest Minnesota State University, will showcase SMSU’s work with drone technology.

Alford will be accompanied by students who – with checkoff support

– are preparing to become certified crop advisors (CCA). The Council has worked with SMSU to set up a program with workshops and materials for students to help them pass the CCA exam.

Following EXPO, the production action team gathers at the end of January to consider Fiscal Year 2023 projects before presenting them to the full board at the Council’s April meeting.

“The topics are as broad as there are farmers in Minnesota,” Kee says. “We’re trying to solve those problems that affect farmers, or those problems that we can seem coming on the horizon that may affect most farmers.”

discoverpropanemn.com 763-633-4271

Kee will get his chance to chat with Minnesota’s farming community this year at MN AG EXPO. Over the course of EXPO, at least 10 checkoffsupported researchers will be on the trade show floor to update attendees on their projects and help farmers make herbicide decisions for the 2023 growing season. The projects cover agronomic issues including weed and pest management, and soybean traits. In 2022, MSR&PC funded more than a dozen projects related to production research in the areas targeted. The Council invested checkoff dollars to sponsor innovative projects to improve yields, develop new varieties and address agronomic issues growers face. Checkoff projects

Checkoff Researchers at MN AG EXPO

Researcher Exhibit Date Title

Adam Alford Wednesday, 1/18/2023

Andrew Lueck Wednesday, 1/18/2023

Utilization of drone technology as a tool to enhance the agricultural learning of future agriculture professionals, and/or Phase III: Implementing a Sustainable Model to Successfully Integrate CCA Preparation into Agricultural Curricula and Educational Outreach Programs at SMSU.

2022 Weed Control and Plant Health Multi-Company Demonstration Grant, and/or

2022 Continued Evaluation of Waterhemp Control and Crop Injury in Two-Pass Micro-Rate Herbicide Programs in Soybean

Seth Naeve Wednesday, 1/18/2023 Managing IDC with Agronomics and Economics (Yr 2/2)

Robert Lee Koch Wednesday, 1/18/2023

Bob Stupar Wednesday, 1/18/2023

Cold Hardiness of Soybean Gall Midge: Foundations For Pest Forecasting and Cultural Control

New Biotechnology To Improve and Understand Soybean Traits (YR 2/4)

Ryan Miller Thursday, 1/19/2023 Managing Volunteer Corn in Growth Regulator Tolerant Soybeans

Debalin

Sarangi Thursday, 1/19/2023 FY22 Management of Herbicide-Resistant Waterhemp in Minnesota Soybean

Dean Malvick Thursday, 1/19/2023

Soybean Stem and Root Diseases: Filling the Gaps for Management

Senyu Chen Thursday, 1/19/2023 Study of SCN Diversity and Detection of White Soybean Cyst Mematode for Strategically Breeding Resistant Soybean

Bruce Potter Thursday, 1/19/2023

Soybean Pest Management Research – SW MN 2022

The next Farm Bill will be a top priority for national farm groups in 2023.

CULTIVATING PROFESSIONALS

New college ag program aims to grow talent

By Kaelyn Rahe

The word “cultivate” has two main definitions. One definition refers to the breaking of soil to provide the ideal environment for seeds to germinate; the other definition is the process of trying to acquire or develop a quality or skill.

Both definitions, however, can live harmoniously.

At Minnesota State University, Mankato (MNSU), faculty have continually looked for ways to cultivate the students. In this sense, both definitions of the word cultivate can apply.

The first definition can refer to breaking down barriers that provide the ideal environment and resources for a student to be successful; the second definition can refer to helping a student engage in developing in that quality or skill.

With Mankato serving as the commercial hub of southcentral Minnesota in a region surrounded by agriculture, it made sense to cultivate an agricultural program at the University.

“It was about seven years ago the University was awarded non-land grant status through the USDA, which means we are open to federal funding around food and agriculture,” said Shane Bowyer, associate professor of Management and director of the AgriBusiness and Food Innovation Program. “And so, we thought we might as well start a program. We are one of the largest and longest schools in Minnesota and we don’t have agriculture, and we are in the heart of it.”

Bowyer also received encouragement from local

businesses and alumni, including Soybean Business Art Director and Minnesota Soybean Sr. Director of Integrated Marketing Doug Monson, who graduated from MNSU in 2003. Ag Management Solutions, the group that oversees Minnesota Soybean, is based in Mankato and recently moved into its new location off Highway 14.

“An organization like AMS is always looking to work with the next generation of agriculture professionals, from researchers to communicators,” Monson said. “That’s one of the biggest workforce challenges our industry is facing – finding and retaining talent. This program will hopefully do just that, build up a talented workforce dedicated to agriculture.”

Bowyer was up to the challenge of starting a new collegiate program from scratch. First, he started with clubs, then added two minors. MNSU now has two majors – Agricultural Sciences and Agribusiness and Food Innovation.

Bowyer is optimistic the program will help develop the next generation of ag professionals throughout southern Minnesota.

“You have pretty much had to go outside our borders to find ag programming, but we have so many people in the area still coming to school here even though we didn’t have ag. We have hundreds of thousands of people working in agriculture without an ag degree,” he said.

“The program enables people to stay around southern Minnesota and keep them close to home for harvest or planting season, or to be involved in other realms of agriculture.”

Ag exposure

As the program has continued growing, the University has hired more staff, including past graduate DQ Spencer. Throughout his career, Spencer has worked on the human resources (HR) side for numerous agribusinesses. After receiving his doctorate in 2020, he found an interest in academia and now teaches agribusiness leadership courses and management courses.

“The perspective I take is the HR business aspect of it, and I think that’s going to be my niche to the program,” Spencer said. “I’ve worked HR for multiple industries in agribusinesses, so I look forward to exposing students to career paths, to certifications and aligning and getting industry partners to assist in internships and career opportunities.”

Both Bowyer and Spencer are optimistic for the opportunities the

programs will bring forth.

With the agricultural degrees built into the College of Business, MNSU has a unique structure compared to other universities. Not many colleges have this type of structure, but it works for MNSU, Bowyer said.

MNSU is heralded for its College of Business. Therefore, it is an advantage to implement agriculture through its business courses, Spencer said.

“As business issues and challenges will continue to grow, our resources do no not,” Spencer said. “There is a limited amount of land. Therefore, exposing more students to those jobs and the industry will definitely help us alleviate some of those compilations.”

Additionally, Bowyer was excited for the job outlook for students, quoting a Purdue University study referencing “the major employment areas for new college graduates will

MNSU’s AgriBusiness and Food Innovation Program faculty and students often have a presence at area farm shows, including MN AG EXPO, which help students network and learn about the myriad careers that agriculture offers. Visit Expo Booth 21 to learn more about the program.

“The students come out of that with a new lens and a lot of agriculture contacts,” Bowyer said.

be in Management and Business (approx. 24,700 positions) and in Science and Engineering (approx. 18,400 positions), making up 42% and 31%, respectively, of anticipated openings.

‘A signature program:’

Although the majors are in the first year of existence and minors in the third, MNSU has seen some agricultural success stories, including current student Sam Csizmadia.

Csizmadia currently is studying business management with an entrepreneurship and innovation and an agribusiness minor.

He started his own lawncare company in high school and purchased his mower from Kibble Equipment in Mankato. Csizmadia convinced the company to hire him to mow the company’s lawn for the next three years.

MNSU student Sam Csizmadia parlayed a lawn care business into a full-time job with Kibble Equipment.

“I was joking around that I need an agricultural-related internship, and I said, ‘Well I spend my money here, why don’t I see how the other side of it works? I was just totally joking around, and they said ‘Yeah, why not,’” Csizmadia said. “That’s how I secured an internship, which later turned into a full-time job offer.”

Csizmadia wasn’t alone in his career exploration. Bowyer, who serves as Csizmadia’s advisory and management professor, guided him on his journey.

“Shane’s really good at nudging people into stuff and finding things that you’ll be good at even if you have no clue about it,” Csizmadia said.

It was through a conversation with Bowyer that Csizmadia learned about the Henze Ag Innovators Leadership Development Program, which he applied for and later participated in.

The program, which is partially funded by alumni Daryl and Karyl Henze, seeks to engage students with industry leaders, participate in leadership development activities and participate in food and ag-related events and trips. Fifteen students are selected to participate each semester.

“It’s really been a signature program for us,” Bower said. “Students come out with a new lens on agriculture and gain contacts within the industry.”

The Henze Ag Innovators with the addition of the two majors and two minors have helped create diverse curriculum to prepare MNSU students for careers in agriculture.

“It’s more than tractors and dirt. You have to come into the program with an open mind and just jump into it because it’ll surprise you,” Csizmadia said. “There are areas for everything from accounting, finance and management. There’s a lot to do in agriculture and that’s what has surprised me. It just keeps getting wider and wider the more I learn about it.”

Tuesday, Jan. 17

8:00 a.m. Large Equipment Move In

Noon Exhibitor Set Up

Noon Nitrogen Smart Session 1

2:00 p.m. MARL Board Meeting

3:00 p.m. Nitrogen Smart Session 2

5:00 p.m. Corn Board Meeting

6:00 p.m. Hospitality Rooms Open

Thursday, Jan. 19

All day MARL Workshop

6:30 a.m. Registration Opens

7 a.m. MCGA PAC Breakfast

7:30 a.m. Early Riser Session

9:00 a.m. MSGA Annual Meeting

9:00 a.m. Trade Show Opens

9:00 a.m. CPR Training

10:00 a.m. MN Ag in the Classroom Hands-on Learning Session

11:00 a.m. Learning Session 3 - Watershed Restoration

Noon Lunch

Wednesday, Jan. 18

All day MARL Workshop

7:30 a.m. Booth Setup

7:30 a.m. Registration Opens

8:00 a.m. Learning Session 1 - Carbon Credit Update

9:00 a.m. MCGA Annual Meeting

9:00 a.m. Trade Show Opens

9:00 a.m. CPR Training

10:00 a.m. MN Ag in the Classroom Hands-on Learning Session

Noon Lunch

Noon Linder Farm Network Live Show

1:00 p.m. Learning Session 2 - Making Your Nitrogen Go Further

2:30 p.m. Afternoon Keynote Panel - Animal Ag Panel

3:30 p.m. Trade Show Reception

4:00 p.m. Trade Show Closes

4:00 p.m. MCGA Silent Auction and Reception

5:30 p.m. Dinner

7:00 p.m. MSGA Expo After Hours: Sports Carnival

12:30 p.m. Lunch Keynote - Marissa Nehlsen

2:00 p.m. Learning Session 4 - 2023 Farm Bill Panel

3:00 p.m. Trade Show Closes

The agenda is subject to change and will be regularly updated on the MN AG EXPO website. Stay up-to-date by visiting mnagexpo.com.

“An organization like AMS is always looking to work with the next generation of agriculture professionals, from researchers to communicators. That’s one of the biggest workforce challenges our industry is facing – finding and retaining talent. This program will hopefully do just that, build up a talented workforce dedicated to agriculture.”

-Doug Monson, Ag Management Solutions Sr. Director of Integrated Marketing

HELPING

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

NIH study shows TruSoya’s heart-healthy benefits

By Sydney Harris and Drew Lyon

The results are in, and another checkoff-supported product from the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) is showing true value. The Council might not be able to solve all the world’s problems through soybeans, but checkoff investments can help to improve cardiovascular health – and it doesn’t even involve running.

TruSoya high oleic soybean oil, a Council checkoff investment, is a healthier option for cooking oil and could improve human cardiovascular health, according to a recently published study from the National Institute of Health (NIH).

“This is a national value success story – not just Minnesota,” MSR&PC Tom Slunecka said.

Through farmer investments via

on humans for verification, NIH researchers are encouraged by the initial findings. According to the 2022 study in which a “humanized” strain of laboratory mice were fed three different soybean-oil-containing diets for 12 weeks by researchers from NIH, TruSoya has the potential to reduce cardiovascular disease because of its Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acid balance. The ideal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 is one-to-one and TruSoya retains the same level of omega-3s as commodity soybean oil.

“Fatty acids aren’t just an energy source,” said NIH Intramural Research Program Scientist ZhiHong Yang, who helped lead the study. “They’re also a precursor to a diversity of mediators. Omega-3 fatty acids produce anti-inflammatory mediators and omega-6 produce pro-

promotes inflammation of blood vessels – which is the first step of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. As a result, the NIH study showed a 38% reduction in the size of the atherosclerotic plaques deposited in the blood vessels of the humanized mice, which are bred to serve as a model organism for dietary contribution to human

“One hundred years ago, cardiovascular disease was quite rare,” said Alan Remaley, NIH’s Head of Lipoprotein Metabolism Section, Translational Vascular Medicine Branch (NHLBI). “Today, 7% of our diet comes from soybeans. If we have a healthier soy oil, I think it could have a huge public health impact.”

Advancing agriculture

By investing Minnesota soybean farmers’ checkoff resources, MSR&PC has played a crucial role in the creation of TruSoya, a heart healthy soybean variety. Falling under Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council’s SOYLEIC variety, TruSoya’s NonGMO High Oleic soybeans are the brainchild of Jim Orf, a renowned University of Minnesota breeder. With

flight, and the industry is taking notice.

Late in the 2022 growing season, industry leaders gathered to observe a TruSoya field. Planted by Minnesota soybean farmer and MSR&PC Vice Chair Tom Frisch, the 160-acre field may look like any other soybean field, but it is the culmination of five years of hard work to bring TruSoya to commercialization.

“There was a need for someone to grow TruSoya and it worked for me to fill the gap,” said Frisch, who farms near Dumont in west-central Minnesota. “I believe that if we all do our part, we can help advance agriculture.”

Checkoff support

Brushvale Seed, located in Breckenridge, has been an important partner in the commercialization

silo space to keep things segregated and can help with the freight.”

Another MSR&PC checkoff project will play a role in TruSoya: the Ag Innovation Campus (AIC). When the AIC begins crush plant operations in spring 2023, TruSoya soybeans will be the first soybeans crushed in the facility. A portion of the crushed TruSoya will go to Prairie Aquatech to tested as an ingredient in aquaculture feed, while a vast majority will be sent to Chile for seed increase. Additionally, oil will be extracted for interested companies who want to test TruSoya’s oil in their products.

Frisch credited his Council colleagues for their foresight in directing checkoff resources toward developing TruSoya.

“If it wasn’t for the checkoff, projects

2023 MN SOYBEAN

endeavor’

seeks candidates for 2023 elections

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture holds commodity council elections each spring.

MSR&PC Directors

as of June 2, 2022

By Soybean Business Staff

Five Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council positions are up for election.

Interested candidates need to ll out a candidate biography form and a candidate certi cation form and return to Minnesota Soybean by Jan. 23, 2023.

Dates to Remember:

Have you ever wanted to have a say in directing and investing checkoff resources on behalf of Minnesota’s 27,000 soybeans? Now’s your chance to lead and become a candidate for election to the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC).

• Ballot requests and candidate forms are due to melinda@agmgmtsolutions.com by Monday, Jan. 23

• Ballots will be mailed by MDA Friday, March 17

• Ballots must be postmarked by Tuesday, April 4

It’s that time of year again: MSR&PC and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) are seeking candidates for annual commodity council elections.

“I know from experience that serving on the Council is an important step in directing where soybean checkoff

investments go,” MSR&PC Vice Chair Tom Frisch said. “A larger pool of candidates gives farmers the chance to vote for someone who will give them a voice on checkoff investments. The more candidates, the better.”

Council Directors Bill Zurn (Districts 1, 2 & 3); Patrick O’Leary (District 4); Pat Sullivan (District 5 & 6); Ron Obermoller (District 7) and Rochelle Krusemark (District 8), respectively, are all up for reelection.

For

Council directors serve three-year terms and help oversee the state’s soybean checkoff dollars on behalf of Minnesota’s soybean farmers. Interested participants must fill out a candidate

2023 MN SOYBEAN RESEARCH & PROMOTION COUNCIL ELECTIONS

Kris Folland

Bill Zurn

Paul Freeman

Patrick O’Leary

certification form and a candidate biography form to the Council’s office no later than Jan. 23, 2023. Ballots will be mailed via MDA by March 17 and must be postmarked by April 4.

Tom Frisch

Joe Serbus

Pat Sullivan

Gene Stoel

Jim Willers

Ron Obermoller

Cole Trebesch

Rochelle Krusemark

Gail Donkers

Glen Groth

Ben Storm

Dist. 1,2, & 3 Dist. 1,2, & 3 Dist. 4 Dist. 4* Dist. 4 Dist. 5 & 6 Dist. 5 & 6* Dist. 7 Dist. 7 Dist. 7* Dist. 8 Dist. 8* Dist. 8 Dist. 9 Dist. 9

*MSR&PC Expiring Director Terms, 2023

“If you’re unsure about being a candidate or serving on the Council, we encourage farmers to reach out to their area representative,” Council Chair Joe Serbus said. “A position on the Council is a rewarding endeavor to represent Minnesota soybean farmers and to ensure soybean checkoff funds are invested properly.” Interested candidates can download the necessary forms at mnsoybean.org/msrpc.

As a co-op owner, you own a world of opportunities powered by local expertise. You gain options and value with access to global markets and a powerful supply chain. And you can do more every day using inputs from teams who know what you need, when you need it. Learn more at cooperativeownership.com or stop by your nearest CHS location to visit with our team.

Council vice chair appointed to United Soybean Board

Tom Frisch has enjoyed the privilege of directing soybean checkoff funds at the state level. Now, the Traverse County farmer and vice chair of the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council is stepping into a national leadership position.

The USDA announced the appointment of Frisch and 18 new farmer-leaders to serve on the United Soybean Board (USB). Frisch replaced Council Director Bill Zurn. In addition, 24 farmer-leaders were reappointed, including Council Director Gene Stoel. Minnesota supports four directors on USB, including Patrick O’Leary and Lawrence Sukalski.

“It’s been very beneficial being involved at the state level, and I’m excited to take what I’ve learned and bring it to USB,” said Frisch, who farms on his fourth-generation operation in Dumont. “It’s a great opportunity.”

Frisch also sits on the Ag Innovation Campus board and represents MSR&PC on the North Central Soybean Research Program.

Minnesota Soybean management group earns regional award Ag Management Solutions, the organization that oversees MSR&PC and the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association, earned the Greater Mankato Growth’s 2022 Growing in the GreenSeam award.

“What we strive to do every day is to be better,” AMS CEO Tom Slunecka said. “We strive to do more and push. Every year we try to push a little bit harder and make the client the star.”

Established in 2017, AMS is owned by MSR&PC and MSGA. It provides a highly skilled, dynamic workforce for small associations and small agriculture for-profit groups. In addition to Minnesota Soybean, AMS’ clients include: 40 Square Cooperative Solutions; the Ag Innovation Campus; Minnesota Wheat; Northern Soy Marketing; Plasma Blue; the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance; and TruSoya, among others.

Minnesota Soybean has been headquartered in the Mankato area for decades. In April 2022, AMS moved into its new headquarters adjacent to Highway 14 on the eastern edge of Mankato. The building is undergoing an upgrade to accommodate more staff and outside groups for educational demonstrations and events. Construction is expected to be completed by 2024.

“We try to raise the bar at AMS,” Slunecka said. “This is an excellent example that if you push hard and drive hard, you’ll be recognized.”

UMN launches Strategic Farming Series

Join checkoff-supported researchers this winter to discuss some of the key issues and questions around commodity crop production facing Minnesota farmers today through the University of Minnesota’s “Strategic Farming: Let’s Talk Crops” webinar series. This live, online program will provide up-to-date, research-based information to help optimize crop management strategies for 2023. Sessions will be held over Zoom, which can be accessed via computer, phone or other mobile device, and run from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Wednesdays, beginning Jan. 11 through March 29, 2023.

MSR&PC is a proud sponsor of this series. For more details and to register, visit https://z.umn.edu/strategicfarming.

FACES OFMSGA

By Sydney Harris

At the 2022 Farmfest, the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) celebrated its 60th anniversary. Mike Singlestad marked the occasion by becoming a member while walking through Minnesota Soybean “Game of Soy” booth.

“I didn’t even realize that I didn’t have a membership,” said Singlestad, who grows corn and soybeans in Waseca County. “When I visited the MSGA booth at Farmfest and they told me that I didn’t have an active membership, I immediately signed up for one because I knew it was for a good cause.”

Mike’s father, Scott Singlestad, was active in the soybean industry, serving as a Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) and United Soybean Board (USB) director for many years. Watching his father actively participate in the industry set an example for Mike’s lifelong involvement in agriculture.

“My dad introduced me to the organizations,” he said. “Since then, it’s been ingrained in me to support the groups that support my livelihood.”

Singlestad hopes that sharing what MSGA does for his operation will encourage others to membership – ultimately benefiting soybean growers across the state. Singelstad also promotes MSGA by supporting fundraising events like the Biodiesel Open and MSGA’s After Hours Sports Carnival event at MN AG EXPO.

“Your membership dollars go towards the promotion of soybeans,” said Singlestad, who for the last 10 years has been custom feeding wean to finish pigs for H&K Livestock. “Whether that be advocating in St. Paul or Washington D.C., or expanding markets to other countries.”

If the cost of having an organization defend your livelihood was less than a quarter a day, would it be worth it? For Minnesota soybean farmers, this scenario is a reality and Rob Tate, a corn and soybean farmer near Cannon Falls, doesn’t hesitate to invest in the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA).

“The cost of a membership doesn’t cost that much out of your pocket, especially if you think about it relative to the value of the crop your growing,” said Tate, who also works as a crop insurance agent. “It’s a fraction of the value.”

Tate, who sits on the Minnesota Corn Growers Association board of directors, doesn’t have to think twice about supporting ag organizations.

“Through organizations like MSGA, we are able to have a stronger voice,” he said.

Farmers are busy people and adding one more task to the list may seem overwhelming. But that’s the beauty of MSGA. By joining, MSGA speaks up for farmers in St. Paul and Washington D.C., so that producers can keep farming.

“Why wouldn’t you want to be part of the organization that helps advocate for you on things that are important to growing soybeans?” said Tate, who has two sons with his wife. “They make sure policies are conducive to support you in the long run as opposed to just sitting on your hands and not doing anything about it.”

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the more than 40 members who either joined the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association or renewed their support. Together, we’re moving agriculture forward and fighting on your behalf St. Paul and Washington, D.C. To join the nation’s premier state soybean association, visit mnsoybean.org/msga/invest. Membership levels start at just $20 for students; a 3-year membership costs less than a quarter per day!

All MSGA members receive the following benefits and discounts:

• Clean Fuels Alliance America Vehicle Discount

• Cabela’s discount (10%)

• Commodity Classic Registration - $100 Savings

• American Soybean Association (ASA) Membership

• $5,000 College Scholarship Opportunity

• Ability to join 40 Square Health Plans

The Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) is the nation’s premier soybean association because farmers and agri-businesses recognize the value their investment in MSGA brings. Here are two examples of Minnesota members who actively promote Minnesota’s soybean industry.