Michigan Winter 2019 oybean ewSa dairy farm with my father and eventually moved out of that business...

A publication of the Michigan Soybean Association

Michigan Soybean Association, PO Box 287, Frankenmuth, MI 48734 Michigan

Soybean newSWinter 2019

Volume 12 - Issue 1

NON-PROFITUS POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT 20

FRANKENMUTH, MI©

3Winter 2019

Political Voice

Comments and suggestions can be submitted to:Michigan Soybean AssociationPO Box 287Frankenmuth, MI 48734 [email protected]

Disclaimer:Advertisements within this publication contain the opinions and information of the advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the Michigan Soybean Association or affiliated groups. The United Soybean Board/soybean checkoff neither recommends nor discourages the implementation of any advice contained herein, and is not liable for the use or misuse of the information provided.

Michigan S o y b e a n N e w S

Michigan Soybean Association’s Mission StatementTo improve and advocate for the Michigan soybean industry.

Visit the Michigan Soybean Association website at www.misoy.orgSee the list of all MSA members on pages 26-29

Governor Appoints New MSPC Director

Page 10

Winter 2019 Volume 12 - Issue 1

Soybean StaffJanna FritzExecutive [email protected]

Noelle ByerleyExecutive [email protected]

Kathy MaurerFinancial and International Marketing [email protected]

Mark SeamonResearch [email protected]

Sonja LapakCommunication [email protected]

Ty BodeisSoybean Production [email protected]

Michigan Soybean AssociationPO Box 287Frankenmuth, MI 48734Phone: 989.652.3294Fax: [email protected]

SalesTim Rogers - RegionalPhone: [email protected]

J.L. Farmakis Inc. - NationalPhone: [email protected]

Copyright 2019 by Michigan Soybean Association; all rights reserved.

Magazine Circulation: 14,500Michigan Soybean News is

published quarterly.

2020 SMaRT Meeting Dates and 2020 Pest and Crop Management Update Meeting Dates

Pages 16-17

Japan Food Bean Trade Team Visits Michigan

Pages 30-31

4 Michigan Soybean News

Membership at Work

District 1-Brian McKenzie,President 17645 McKenzie St. Cassopolis, MI 49031 (C) 269.587.0062

District 2-Gary Parr4949 Wheaton Rd.Charlotte, MI 48813(C) 517.231.1987

District 3-Matt Stutzman, Treasurer and ASA Director4211 Treat Hwy.Adrian, MI 49221(P) 517.260.1720

District 4-Jay Ferguson, Vice President 14684 Yale Rd. Yale, MI 48097 (P) 586.531.6809

District 5-Dan Keenan, Secretary19240 Ederer Rd.Merrill, MI 48637(P) 989.643.7019

District 6-Samantha Krhovsky 5515 Shipman Rd.Corunna, MI 48817(C) 989.277.8678

District 7-Earl Collier2574 — 127th Ave.Allegan, MI 49010(P) 269.793.7340

At-Large-Scott Wilson7405 Babcock Rd.Lexington, MI 48450(C) 248.787.4936

Heather Feuerstein3217 Graff Rd.Belding, MI 48809(C) 616.808.1095

MSA Board of DirectorsFrom Your MSA President...

For several years now, I’ve been hearing the term black swan event in discussions from market prognosticators in both agriculture and financial futures. The definition of a black swan event, according to Webster’s Dictionary, is an unpredictible event that is beyond what

is normally expected of a situation and has potentially severe consequences. Black swan events are characterized by their extreme rarity, their severe impact, and the practice of explaining widespread failure to predict them as a simple folly in hindsight.

In my opinion, some black swan events in my lifetime would be the terrorist attacks on 9/11, the Carter Administration’s grain embargo in 1980 and the toxic PBB food contamination of 1973. These events changed our lives and the way we conduct business.

Are we in a black swan event right now? Remember the definition - they can only be seen and described in hindsight. I believe the combination of African Swine Fever in Asia, the continued trade war with China and bumper yields have combined to create an event(s) that will change the way we do business in agriculture here in Michigan and in the United States. The trade war, even if solved tomorrow, will have long-lasting effects. It may take years to rebuild pre-trade war business with China, not only because other countries have gotten their preverbial foot in the trade door, but because it will also take years to rebuild the Chinese hog herd. All this also ignores the fact that the trade war could plunge us into a worldwide recession.

After thoughts like that, you’re probably thinking, “boy oh boy, give us some good news”. Hmmm. I’m trying. My advice: hold on tight. Low prices always cure low prices. Here’s to a safe and successful harvest. And again, thank you for allowing me to represent your industry.

Sincerely,


Membership at Work

Lifetime LoyaLty memBeR PRogRam

as of october 1, 2016, if you have been an mSa member for 15 consecutive years, you will no longer need to pay dues -

you have become a Lifetime LoyaLty mSa memBeR!

Call the soybean office at 989.652.3294 to check on your membership.

People making decisions in Lansing and Washington, D.C. are getting further and further away from the farm. In the past, families had someone who was a farmer they could visit, but now generations are far removed and don’t

have a direct connection. “I’ve met several legislators that have never set foot on a farm. We as farmers need to be visiting with legislators and representing our land,” stated Jay Ferguson, MSA director. “There is a lot of education that needs to occur to our politicians and the public.”

Paying the soybean checkoff does not make you a Michigan Soybean Association member. Checkoff dollars cannot be used for lobbying.

Protect your farm and way of life, join the Michigan Soybean Association today!Some Membership Benefits:

• 5% member discount purchase incentive on all IntelliFarms equipment and free admission to grain school and workshops

• Through Auto-Owners Insurance/Cedar River Insurance Agency, an offer of premium discounts up to 10% on select policies is available

• Scholarship opportunities for your children and grandchildren• Preferred pricing on the purchase or lease of most new Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep vehicles• Cabela’s gift card purchase discount• Discounted registration to the Commodity Classic

3-year or Lifetime Memberships: • NeW for 3-year or Lifetime memberships is a $300 Specialty seed with a minimum order of 30 units • $50 certificate good for LG Seeds Roundup Ready 2 Xtend™ soybean seed aND $50 soybean seed

certificate good for Renk Seed • 2-$25 Soy Biodiesel certificates oR 2-$25 Soybean Meal Bucks certificates

The MOST IMPORTANT MSA membership benefit: Having a voice in Lansing and Washington, D.C.!

MEMBER BENEFITS

Are you receiving the MSA eNews? Email [email protected] to sign up for

this informative membership e-newsletter.

7Winter 2019

Political Voice#

First Name:________________________________ Last Name:________________________________Address:__________________________________ City/State/Zip:______________________________Phone:____________________________________ Cell Phone:________________________________ Email:____________________________________

Payment Amount & Method:1-yr: $75 3-yr*: $190 Lifetime*: $750

Check (Payable to MSA) or Credit Card Cred- it Card Type:______ Ex- piration Date:_______

Credit Card #:______________________________Signature:_________________________________

Mail application with payment to:Michigan Soybean Association

PO Box 287, Frankenmuth, MI 48734

Dues are not tax deductible as a charitable contribution for federal tax purposes, but may be deductible as a business expense. 18% of member dues are allocated to lobbying activities

and are not deductible.

*3-year and Lifetime memberships can choose between receiving either (check one):

2-$25 Soy Biodiesel Bucks certificates or 2-$25 Soybean Meal Bucks certificates

Date of Birth:__________________Number of Soybean Acres:_______ Total Farm Acres:______________

Occupation (check one): Farmer Retired Other

What issues interest you most? (Check all that apply)

Biodiesel/Biobased ProductsFarm BillTransportation InfrastructureTrade AgreementsConservationConsumer EducationBiotechnologyFreedom to OperateInternational MarketingSoy and NutritionOther:___________________For a list of all membership benefits,

visit www.misoy.org/member-benefits/

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION


Membership at Work

By: Senator Kevin Daley, 31st Senate District

PRESERv INg MICH IgAN AgRICu LTuRE

I’ve spent my life working in various areas of Michigan’s incredible agriculture industry.

I was born and raised on a family farm in the small town of Lum in Lapeer County as one of eight kids. Today, I live on and operate that same family farm, which is now in its fifth generation.

Growing up, farming was what I knew and it is a big part of the person I am today. I started out operating a dairy farm with my father and eventually moved out of that business because of the growing challenges facing the industry. I currently raise beef cattle and grow soybeans, corn and alfalfa. There’s something to be said about an honest day’s work and seeing all the long hours and hard work eventually pay off.

During my time as a dairy farmer, I held leadership positions with the Tri-County Michigan Milk Producers, Lapeer County Farm Bureau and Lapeer County Agriculture Preservation Board. Years of first-hand experience on my own farm, along with these roles helped me learn so much more about Michigan’s farming industry, its needs and the challenges it faces.

I spent many years in local government and eventually decided to run for the state representative seat in Lapeer County. My focus as a legislator was to continue working to support one of Michigan’s most important industries. I promoted various measures

that supported Michigan farms during my time in the House and now, as the state senator for the 31st District, I will continue to do the same.

I currently serve as chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and am vice chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture and Rural Development. My goal remains the same: to preserve and promote Michigan’s agriculture industry.

This year, farmers were faced with a tremendously difficult planting season. Rep. Julie Alexander and I held a special joint committee hearing to address this issue and help give farmers some guidance moving forward. It was a great conversation between lawmakers and folks in the industry. This type of cooperation is how we can adapt to the ever-changing industry and ensure Michigan remains one of the top agricultural states.

Another focus is working to create more processing facilities in our state. It was recently announced that Quality Roasting, Inc. will be receiving grant money that will help them expand in Gilford Township and support soybean production in Tuscola County. This is great news that means more options for farmers, more jobs in the community and a boost to Michigan’s soybean industry.

Now more than ever I believe we need to make sure our farmers and agricultural leaders are engaged in the legislative process. Over the last few years, our industry has really taken some tough hits across the board and we are being forced to change the way we do things.

I encourage all of you out there, whether you are a small or large operation, to reach out to your elected officials and tell them how you are feeling. Invite them out to your farm for a tour or make a trip to Lansing and visit their office. I think we need to a do a better job of promoting the great things that we do here in our state. With your help, I know we can do just that.

Sen. Kevin Daley represents the 31st Senate District which includes Bay,

Lapeer and Tuscola counties.

9Winter 2019

Political Voice

46th AnnuAl

Meeting of MeMbersnotice for MsA

MeMbers Pursuant to Article V, Section I of the Bylaws of

the Michigan Soybean Association (MSA), notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of the members of the Michigan Soybean Association will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at Soaring Eagle Casino, 6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858, convening at 4:30 p.m.

The purpose of the Annual Meeting is to announce new directors and to transact such other business as may properly come before the members. At this meeting, the members will be asked to vote on an MSA bylaw change: requesting to change the Reorganization Meeting to be held within 60 days following the Annual Meeting. The current bylaws state: The Reorganizational/Annual Meeting of the board of directors shall be held at the same place as, and immediately following, the Annual Meeting of Members of this Corporation. No notice shall be required of such meeting.

Call the MSA office at 989.652.3294 by Wednesday, January 17 to make your reservation. Bring a farmer friend with you and encourage them to join the Michigan Soybean Association.

Dated this 26th day of November, 2019. Sincerely,

Dan KeenanMSA Secretary


Your Soybean Checkoff

G o v e r n o r A p p o i n t s N ew M S P C B o a r d M emb e r

Steve Koeman, a soybean farmer from Hamilton was recently reappointed to the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee (MSPC) board by

Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Steve is entering his third and final three-year term as a director. He represents District 7, which includes Allegan, Barry, Kent, Ottawa, Gratiot, Midland and Montcalm Counties, and all counties north of Gladwin.

“I’m honored to be appointed, once again, by the governor to serve on the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee. I’m looking forward to continuing my work on the board to help make soybean farming more profitable in Michigan by creating new markets, reaching out to the public and helping farmers to produce more soybeans for less cost,” stated Koeman.

MSPC also recently welcomed a new director to the board, Mark Senk. Mark was appointed for his first term by Governor Whitmer in August 2019. Mark will be representing District 6, which includes Clinton, Genesee, Ionia, Lapeer, Shiawassee and Tuscola Counties.

Mark has been farming in Owosso for 19 years and has grown his operation to 1,600 acres. He also manages his father’s 400 acres. In addition to farming, Mark also holds his journeyman electrician license.

When asked why he applied to become a director, Mark shared, “I applied to become more active in the soy industry and to have a voice on how checkoff dollars can be allocated to provide the best returns for

the soy growers of Michigan.”Mark also noted that he has always liked doing

crop research on his own farm to improve yields and profits. In the future, he wants to get more involved in educating the non-farming public about agriculture. He admits it may be a little out of his comfort zone, but he’s excited to do more of this outreach.

“I think the most important role of the checkoff is to ensure the money being collected from the farmers is being invested the best ways possible to benefit the soy growers of Michigan,” said Mark.

Last year Mark participated in the Corteva Young Leader Program on behalf of the Michigan soybean industry with his wife Vanessa. Vanessa works off the farm as a radiation therapist at St. Mary’s Cancer Center in Saginaw. They have 3 sons - Mason, Adam and Trevor.

Mark replaces Alan Moore from Bannister as the representative for District 6. Alan served one three-year term on the board and will continue to represent Michigan soybean farmers as the representative to the Soy Aquaculture Alliance. We thank Alan for his service on the board of directors and look forward to his continued representation related to soybeans and their use in aquaculture.

The entire MSPC board and staff welcome Mark and appreciate his willingness to serve the Michigan soybean industry.

By: Janna Fritz, Executive Director

Steve Koeman, MSPC District 7 Director

Mark Senk, MSPC District 6 Director


Membership at Work

Na t i o n a l B i o d i e s e l B o a rd Upda t e

By: Matt Stutzman, National Biodiesel Board Representative

I would like to share good news on the biodiesel front, but unfortunately the trend these days is “over promise and under deliver”.

In a recent meeting I had with United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Perdue, he reported his last two meetings at The White House with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Wheeler were productive regarding Small Refinery Exemptions (SREs) and reallocation of those gallons.

It is important to note that true small refineries that do suffer disproportionate economic hardship deserve these waivers, but those examples are not what is in question. It’s the refineries that qualify under the definition of small refineries but are owned by very large, very profitable companies. These refineries are not the ones that the SREs were intended for. I find it absurd that in 2015, seven waivers were granted, and that number jumped to 31 in 2018.

Recently it seems that the supplemental proposed rule, which was designed to account for the waived gallons, may only account for lost gallons forecasted by the Department of Energy (DOE), and not actual gallons waived by the EPA. SREs are issued by the EPA after consulting with DOE, however the EPA has ignored DOE recommendations in the past. Time will tell, but the devil is in the details. The National Biodiesel Board and the American Soybean Association intend to monitor the situation closely and be there every step of the way to ensure a fair judgement for renewable fuels.

The Administration says they are making an effort for farmers, but they don’t seem to be trying very hard. I know trade with China is the bigger fish to fry, but the renewable fuels industry needs our help and support to stay viable.

View current exemption numbers here: https://www.epa.gov/fuels-registration-reporting-and-compliance-help/rfs-small-refinery-exemptions

*All numbers in Table 1 are rounded to the nearest 10 million gallons or RINs.

13Winter 2019


Some soybean producers in Michigan are experimenting with very early planting dates (late-March to mid-April) with some positive

results. Based on the yield data I’ve seen, there is not a consistent yield benefit from planting this early when compared to planting during late April or the first week of May. Given this, the main benefit of this practice is that it enables producers to extend the planting window by taking advantage of good soil and weather conditions occurring in early to mid-April. Planting soybeans very early carries significant risk. I will list the risks and share how to mitigate them in this article.

Imbibitional Chilling Injury (ICI): This condition occurs when the soybean seed

imbibes very cold water (450 F) in the first 12 to 24 hours after planting. Rainfall events occurring within 24 hours of planting favor ICI. As long as the soil water imbibed during the first 24 hours is above 450 F, cool soil temperatures can prevail without causing significant chilling injury. Visible symptoms of ICI include uneven emergence and dead tissue on the exterior of the cotyledons. Management practices for reducing the risk for ICI are listed below:

• Plant in the early afternoon to allow soils to warm up.

• Avoid planting when rain is imminent within 24 hours after planting. The heavy rain events that occurred in April and early May 2017 adversely affected soybean germination and emergence in many early-planted fields.

• Plant later-maturing varieties as they are less susceptible to ICI than early-maturing varieties.

• Plant high-quality seed having intact seed coats that are free of wrinkles or growth cracks.

• Avoid planting seed with low initial moisture levels.

Seedling Diseases: Due to the high probability that very early-planted seed will be confronted with cool and wet soils, Michigan State University Extension recommends using fungicide seed treatments when planting early. Select fungicides that are effective

against fusarium, pythium, phytophthora and rhizoctonia. Producers should also select varieties that are resistant/tolerant to sudden death syndrome and phytophthora when planting very early.

Frost/Freeze Damage: One of the leading risks of very early-planting is that emerged plants will be damaged by freezing temperatures as the growing point is exposed and vulnerable when the cotyledons emerge. This risk is mitigated to some degree by the fact that germination and emergence are delayed under cooler soil temperatures. Soybean tissue is also more resistant to freezing temperatures than corn tissue. Typically, temperatures must reach 29-300 F for damage to affect emerged beans before the first trifoliate leaves emerge. Once the first trifoliate leaves develop, the plants become susceptible to damage from temperatures at or below 320 F. Planting in fields at higher elevations with good air drainage will reduce the risk. Removing residue from the row is a mixed bag for very early planting. It will cause the soil to warm-up sooner and promote earlier germination and emergence, which may expose the emerged plants to greater risk of frost/freeze injury.

Shortened Reproductive Period: A less probable risk is that abnormally warm

weather may occur after planting, causing the plants to emerge in April. Even if the emerged plants escape frost/freeze injury, the unifoliate leaves will sense the shorter photoperiod occurring at this time of the year, causing the plants to flower significantly earlier than normal and potentially shortening the reproductive period. Planting the latest maturing varieties that are adapted to the area will reduce the impact of this outcome.

Bean Leaf Beetles (BLB): The potential for damage from bean leaf beetles is increased by early planting, as the beetles congregate on the earliest emerging soybean fields in a given area. Watch for BLB feeding and apply an insecticide if damage exceeds the treatment threshold (50 percent defoliation on seedlings).

Risks and Benefits of Early Soybean Planting

By: Mike Staton, MSU Extension Soybean Educator



2020 SMaRT (Soybean Management and Research Technology) Meetings

What: The results of the 2019 SMaRT on-farm research projects will be presented. Participants will also learn about the latest planting date research conducted by MSU and hear an update on managing weeds in 2020. Time will be available for questions, comments and discussion.

When/Where: January 7, Wagon Wheel American Grill, 7888 E. Grand River Ave., Portland, MI 48875 January 9, The Brentwood Restaurant, 178 Park Dr., Caro, MI 48723 January 14, Cabela’s, 110 Cabela Boulevard East, Dundee, MI 48131 January 16, Baker College Welcome Center, 1309 South M-52, Owosso, MI 48867 January 22, GreenMark Equipment, 16700 Heimbach Rd., Three Rivers, MI 49093 January 23, The Trestle Stop Restaurant, 3366 M-40, Hamilton, MI 49419

Time: All programs will begin with registration at 9:00 a.m.

Registration: The Michigan Soybean Checkoff program is covering all costs. However, pre-registration is requested to ensure an accurate count for lunch and materials. To register online please go to http://events.anr.msu.edu/2020SMaRTMeeting/. To register by phone, call the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee office in Frankenmuth at (877) 769-6424 and provide the location of the program you plan to attend, your name, phone number and the number of people attending. Please pre-register by Friday January 3 for the Portland and Caro locations and by Friday January 10 for all other locations.

Agenda

9:00 a.m. Registration and coffee 9:15 a.m. Soybean Checkoff and Association Updates9:30 a.m. Summary of the 2018 and 2019 MSU Planting Date Research — Dr. Manni Singh, MSU Cropping Systems Agronomist and Tom Siler, MSU Graduate Research Assistant10:15 a.m. Break10:30 a.m. 2019 SMaRT On-farm Research Trial Results — Mike Staton, MSU Extension Educator11:40 a.m. Weed Control Challenges for 2020 — Dr. Christy Sprague, MSU Weed Scientist or MSU Weed Science Staff 12:10 p.m. Identify Potential 2020 Research Projects and Discussion — Mike Staton & Mark Seamon, MSPC Research Coordinator12:30 p.m. Complimentary Lunch (courtesy of Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee)

This program has been approved for 2 pesticide applicator recertification credits.

Michigan State University is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. Accommodations

for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting the event contact two weeks prior to the start of the event. Requests received after

this date will be honored whenever possible.

17Winter 2019


2020 Pest and Crop Management Update Meetings

MSU Extension will host seven Field Crop and Pest Management Updates for field crop producers and agronomists in 2020. The Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee, the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan and the Michigan Wheat Program are providing financial support for the programs. RUP and CCA credits will be available.

MSU specialists and educators will present the latest pest and crop management recommendations for field crops and each participant will receive a complimentary copy of Extension Bulletin E-434 “Weed Control Guide for Field Crops”. The topics covered at the programs will be determined by the local hosts and will vary from site to site. Detailed agendas for all programs will be available online at: https://events.anr.msu.edu/IPMcropmgmt2020/ or by calling the host MSU Extension office.

The registration fee for these programs will be $30 per person. Pre-registration is required to ensure an accurate count for meals and materials. Please register at least one week before the event you plan to attend. Producers are encouraged to register online at https://events.anr.msu.edu/IPMcropmgmt2020/ if possible; however, phone-in registrations will also be accepted.

2020 Pest and Crop Management Updates

January 3 Dundee, Dundee Village Hall, contact Lenawee County MSU Extension (517) 264-5300 January 8 Mt. Pleasant, Comfort Inn & Suites Hotel and Conference Center, contact Isabella County MSU Extension (989) 317-4079January 10 Alpena, Alpena Community College, contact Presque Isle County MSU Extension at (989) 734-2168January 28 Richville/Frankenmuth, Saginaw Valley Research and Education Center, contact Lapeer County MSU Extension (810) 667-0341February 3 West Olive, Fillmore Street Complex, contact Van Buren County MSU Extension at (269) 657-8213February 6 Peck, Sanilac Career Center, contact Tuscola County MSU Extension at (989) 672-3870February 10 Dowagiac, Dowagiac Conservation Club, contact Van Buren County MSU Extension at (269) 657-8213



A variety of options for weed control will be available to soybean growers in 2020. Some of these options are tried and true, while others are new and will require more management. The spread and severity of herbicide resistant weeds across the state is undeniable and requires careful management to hold

in check. The widespread distribution of glyphosate and ALS-resistant marestail, as well as multiple-resistant common waterhemp have never been more of a concern than in 2019. Knowing that the seed production of each of these plants is measured in the hundreds of thousands, we can expect even more pressure from these weeds in 2020. These are two of the biggest resistant weeds in the state but there are many others that should be on your radar including palmer amaranth, common and giant ragweed and common lambsquarter.

marestail common waterhemp

Herbicide Resistance:Let Your Situation Determine Your Control Strategy

This figure depicts the number of herbicide-resistant weed

species in Michigan by county. For more details, visit https://

www.canr.msu.edu/weeds/

19Winter 2019


Includes glyphosate, glufosinate and HPPD tolerance

Includes 2,4-D, glyphosate and

glufosinate tolerance

Includes dicamba and glyphosate tolerance

Includes glufosinate tolerance

MSPC utilizes soybean grower checkoff investments to pay for herbicide-resistant weed screening at MSU. Soybean growers may submit weed seed samples to MSU Plant and Pest Diagnostics where they will be grown out and sprayed with several (5-7) classes of herbicides to determine which herbicides will not control the weed population. The issues continue to get more complicated as several weed species are resistant to multiple herbicide classes. This makes planning for weed control very important. Knowing which herbicides will control your weeds coupled with choosing herbicide resistant soybean traits will give the best chance for success. More basic control tools such as tillage and the use of residual herbicides are also critical to win the many battles against weeds.

The United Soybean Board funds the “Take Action” program to help soybean growers tackle the new realities of weed control. Check out their resources online at www.iwilltakeaction.com/weeds

Non-GMO Control weeds

carefully by choosing herbicides that

your weeds are not resistant to (ex. Glyphosate, ALS)

Residual Herbicides

Control weeds with multiple-week

residuals

TillageStart clean by doing

complete tillage and consider in-row cultivation where

needed

Weed control products and practices for an aggressive defense include:



The Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee’s (MSPC) mission statement is to manage checkoff resources to increase return on investment for Michigan soybean farmers while enhancing sustainable soybean production. MSPC believes part of that investment needs to be with college students interested in a career

in the soybean industry. MSPC works closely with Michigan State University’s (MSU) Crop and Soil Science (CSS) program to help

increase student interest in soybean production and soy industry careers. Scholarship applicants must be full-time undergraduate students (12 credit hours or more) in their junior or senior year and possess a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average based on a 4.0 scale. MSPC also offers a statewide scholarship for students attending other colleges or for MSU students in a program other than CSS, using the same criteria as the MSU scholarships.

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2019-2020 MSPC scholarship recipients:

By: Noelle Byerley, Executive Assistant

2019-2020 Soybean Scholarship Winners

Dennis Alt Dennis is a senior at MSU in the Crop and Soil Science program. Dennis grew up on a farm in Comstock Park producing apples, corn and soybeans. “Thank you for the opportunity to further my education in agronomy and agribusiness. After college I plan to continue to work with soybean production in seed sales and contract research. With the low market value, production efficiency will be more important than ever and I am glad to be a part of the soybean industry.”

Nash HartNash is a senior at MSU working towards a degree in Crop and Soil Science. He grew up on his family farm in Durand raising soybeans as a cash crop for numerous years. “I would like to thank those who have made this opportunity available for me and students like me, to aid in pursuing educational aspirations in the agricultural field.”

Luke Retford Luke will be starting his junior year at MSU in the Crop and Soil Science program. He grew up on his family’s 100+ year old farm in Owendale where they grow soybeans, corn, dry beans and sugar beets. “Thank you to the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee for awarding me with this scholarship. Upon graduation, I hope to obtain employment as an agronomist and continue to farm with my family. There is only so much farmland. We need to not only produce the most food that we can from the land, but also maintain the soil for future generations.”

21Winter 2019

Your Soybean CheckoffJoshua DeradoorianJosh is a junior at MSU in the Crop and Soil Science program. He has been a student research assistant for the MSU soybean breeder for a little over a year now. After college, Josh plans to join the Peace Corps for a couple of years and learn about farming habits abroad and possibly introduce farmers in other countries to more modern and productive agronomic practices. “I want to thank the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee for assisting me in furthering my education as an aspiring plant breeder.”

Grant GremelGrant is a senior at MSU in the Agribusiness Management program. Grant grew up on his family’s farm in Sebewaing planting about 2,000 acres of soybeans, corn, sugar beets, wheat and dry beans. He has career plans and aspirations to find a position in agriculture consulting and possibly sales. “Thank you to the committee for this scholarship. I would like to help farmers understand the options that are available for their specific operations and partner with them on day to day decisions related to what to plant all the way through to harvest.”

Daniel HaleDaniel is a junior at MSU studying Agribusiness Management. Daniel grew up on his family’s farm in Sandusky where they raise about 200 acres of soybeans, corn, rye, hay and oats. He would like to pursue a career in agriculture that will allow him the opportunity to help with finding sustainable, efficient and economical ways of growing various crops. He believes in thinking differently and trying new things to learn and improve. “Thank you for this scholarship and the opportunity to represent MSPC.”

Schools Watching FARMLANDBy: Noelle Byerley, Special Projects Coordinator

In 2016 the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee (MSPC) started offering the FARMLAND DVD and lesson plans to Michigan high school teachers. To date, MSPC has reached over 420 classrooms and over 11,900 students. This offer is compliments of Michigan’s soybean farmers through their investment in the soybean

checkoff. With a goal to build consumer confidence about today’s farm and food system, MSPC offers the movie to high school teachers and students to engage them with a first-hand glimpse into agriculture using lessons, activities and movie clips that bring to life critical issues such as sustainability, the new science behind farming and entrepreneurship.

The U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance® and Discovery Education partnered on an initiative to engage youth with a first-hand glimpse into modern agriculture. The lessons are based on clips from the documentary and are designed for grades 9 through 12. The lesson plans align with Next Generation Science Standards and agribusiness standards under the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium. Lesson plans include farming as an industry, educated consumers, breaking down stereotypes and challenges in farming and ranching. “FARMLAND, a film by James Moll” is available for viewing on several platforms - view the list at www.farmlandfilm.com.

Feedback from teachers and students has been overwhelmingly positive and MSPC is looking forward to reaching more students this year as the program continues.



MSPC Welcomesto Michigan

The Michigan soybean industry is welcoming some good news, amidst the many challenges of this year. One piece of good news is the construction and start-up of a new soybean processing facility in Gilford, Michigan. Gilford is located in Tuscola County, about 20 miles east of Saginaw. Quality Roasting, Inc. has

constructed a facility that will have the capacity to process 2.2 million bushels per year. They have started to receive soybeans this harvest season and are scheduled to begin crushing soybeans in early December.

Quality Roasting, Inc. operates two facilities in Wisconsin and specializes in producing high quality dairy feed. They have developed Exceller Meal®, which is a soybean meal product produced by an expeller process.

The facility will include storage for 300,000 bushels of soybeans, processing equipment and storage for soybean meal and soybean oil. Quality Roasting Site Manager Jeff Laverty said, “We are proud to be located in the Thumb area of Michigan and look forward to working with the local soybean growers and dairy farms in adding value to both industries.” Jeff can be reached by phone at (989) 868-7136 or by email at [email protected].

“Michigan soybean growers have a long history of being experts at growing soybeans and the addition of processing capacity is an exciting and welcome complement to this strength,” stated MSPC Research Coordinator Mark Seamon. The Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee welcomes Quality Roasting, Inc. to Michigan. We look forward to a long and successful partnership with field crop and dairy farmers throughout the area.

The mission of the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee is to manage checkoff resources to increase return on investment for Michigan soybean farmers while enhancing sustainable soybean production.

Sarah PetersonVice PresidentNiles, District 1269.845.8994

Pete CrawfordDansville, District 2 517.206.2694

Laurie IsleyPresidentPalmyra, District 3517.260.0348

Dennis GardnerCroswell, District 4810.387.4481

Mike SahrTreasurerSaginaw, District 5989.297.0663

Mark SenkOwosso, District 6989.666.7869

Steve KoemanSecretaryHamilton, District 7616.218.2626

MSPC OfficePO Box 287Frankenmuth, MI 48734989.652.3294www.michigansoybean.org [email protected]

Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee Board of Directors

StaffExecutive DirectorJanna FritzExecutive AssistantNoelle ByerleyFinancial and International Marketing DirectorKathy Maurer

Research CoordinatorMark SeamonCommunication Director Sonja LapakSoybean Production SpecialistTy Bodeis

North Central Soybean Research Program

Ed CagneyScotts, 269.327.5157

National Biodiesel Board

Matt StutzmanAdrian, 517.260.1720

United Soybean BoardDan RajzerDecatur, 269.876.6343

Jim DomagalskiColumbus, 586.727.9639

David WilliamsElsie, 989.307.8044

U.S. Soybean Export Council

and Soy Transportation

CoalitionLaurie IsleyPalmyra, 517.260.0348

Soy Aquaculture Alliance

Alan MooreBannister, 989.862.4686

World Initiative for Soy in Human Health

Jim WilsonYale, 810.404.1083

Board of Directors

Submit Your Farm Photos Do you have a favorite farm photo or like

to take pictures of Michigan agriculture? We are accepting photos, which may or may not be featured in the Michigan Soybean News. You can email photos (high resolution JPEG) of your farm, landscape, family, livestock, fields, etc. to [email protected].

Michigan Soybeans on

YouTubeDid you know MSPC has a YouTube channel?

Our channel includes a variety of videos including timely production videos that aim to help you address things you might be seeing on your farm. We also have field check videos that include updates throughout the growing season. Find our channel on YouTube by searching Michigan Soybean and consider subscribing to stay up to date on our newest releases!

NEW MSU Diagnostics Website

Michigan State University (MSU) Diagnostic Services recently changed its name to MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics and launched a fully redesigned website.

The diagnostic facility was established in 1999 through Project GREEEN and has since served an exceptionally diverse clientele that includes homeowners, farmers, nursery and landscape professionals, agribusiness specialists, pest control personnel, county extension and campus specialists and regulatory agencies.

The MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics team consists of highly experienced and knowledgeable diagnosticians in the areas of plant pathology, entomology, nematology and weed science. The team works together to identify plant health and pest problems observed in the different commodities grown in Michigan and other states.

In the last 10 years, MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics has received an average of 6,200 submissions per year. About 70 percent of samples are submitted for nematode soil analysis. Samples submitted to the laboratory can be examined for the presence of insect and other arthropod pests, plant pathogens, nematodes or abiotic injury. Their portfolio of services also includes identification of insects (and other arthropods) and plants as well as herbicide resistance screening for weeds.

Visit their brand-new website at www.pestid.msu.edu to download the new MSPC Soybean Cyst Nematode Submission Form and other sample submission forms. Read their recommendations on sample submission, including collection and shipping, and don’t forget to check out the new resources pages.

SOYBEAN EXTRA

Photo Credit: Ken Zahm

Photo Credit: Amy Engelhard



Summary of the Michigan Soybean Benchmarking and

Yield Gap SurveysMichigan accounted for about 3 percent of U.S. soybean acres harvested over the past five years (www.

nass.usda.gov). Michigan participated in a multi-state project to assess soybean yield gaps and the management practices responsible for them. The yield gap is defined as the difference between yield

potential, as determined by climate and soil, versus producer average yields. Producers were asked to provide field-specific information from fields planted with soybean from 2014 to 2017. Collected data included field location, yield, crop management and applied inputs from 956 Michigan fields.

Fields were grouped into regions within which climate and soil are reasonably similar. Specifically, regions are based on annual growing-degree day accumulation, precipitation and temperature fluctuations, as well as plant available water-holding capacity in the rooting zone. In our analysis, we only included fields located in regions that represent greater than 5 percent of soybean area within the state and have at least 100 surveyed fields. In the case of Michigan, there were a total of 7 regions meeting these criteria (see map below). All of these were dryland (non-irrigated).

Within each region, fields were sorted into two groups based on their yields: the highest third were assigned to the ‘high-yield’ (HY) and the lowest third to the ‘low-yield’ (LY). Then, average management practices implemented by the two groups were compared to identify possible management practices responsible for the yield gap within a region.

Regions

By: Adam Roth, University of Wisconsin

25Winter 2019


In most regions in Michigan (6 out of 7), the high-yield category (significantly higher yield p ≤0.10) consisted of fields with earlier planting date and those treated with foliar insecticide and/or fungicide. In some regions (3 out of 7), high-yield fields were also associated with artificial drainage and tillage. In Region 2, there were more fields with 15-inch row spacing in the HY group while Region 15 had more fields with 30-inch row spacing in the HY group compared to the LY group.

Our study focused on those management practices with greatest yield impact; there may be other reasons for adopting (or not) a given practice, e.g., replicated research results, economic and logistic consideration, pest resistance, soil erosion, etc.

References: • Key Management Practices That Explain Soybean Yield Gaps Across the North Central US • Sifting and winnowing: analysis of farmer field data for soybean in the US North-Central regionBoth publications are available online at: https://coolbean.info/soybean-research/new-information/

Table 1. Management practices comparison between high- and low-yield fields. Green cells indicate statistically significant differences (p≤0.10) for a given management practice between the two field yield categories. For planting date and seeding rate, the values within green cells indicate the averages for the respective columns. For row spacing, green cells indicate differences in the proportion of fields under 7.5, 15, or 30 inches between high- and low-yield fields. For artificial drainage, tillage and foliar insecticide and/or fungicide, values indicate the percent of fields with that management practice. Keep in mind that yields in the HY and LY categories are a consequence of different combinations of practices, and yield differences between HY and LY should not be associated with one single practice.

Management Practices in HY fields compared to LY fields

MichiganSoybean*New Member (since Fall 2019 MSN publication)

Allegan CountyKirk Blaauw, HopkinsKlint Blaauw, ShelbyvilleClearview Farms, WaylandEarl Collier, AlleganDennis DeVries, WaylandLarry Dolegowski, DorrJay, Jon and Tom Drozd, AlleganJoe Kwiatkowski, DorrPaul and Brad Lubbers, HamiltonRandy Poll, HamiltonJim Schaendorf, DorrTyler Schaendorf, DorrJim Wykoski, Wayland

Alpena CountyDan and Waylon Smolinski, Lachine

Arenac CountyBrian Rueger, StandishRobert Schlagel, TurnerSteven Schlagel, TurnerMatthew Schwab, StandishDennis Steinbauer, StandishDonald Wojtowicz, StandishRyan Wojtowicz, Standish

Bay CountyJohn A. Burk, Bay CityJohn P. Burk, Bay CityMarcus Carlin, MungerJack Frank, Bay CityTroy Frank, KawkawlinNeil French, Munger*Terry and Jan Histed, MungerJeff Karbowksi, Bay CityJames Kleinert, MungerDonald Rueger, AuburnJerry Skuta, PinconningL. Scott Sommerfield, MungerGene VanDreissche, Bay City

Berrien CountyChris Rosselit, NilesNick Young, Buchanan

Branch CountyJohn Arver, BronsonB&M Crop Consulting Inc.,

ColdwaterJerry Hubbard, Union CityDale Norton, BronsonKeith Pohl, ColdwaterJohn Sherman, Coldwater

Calhoun CountyThe Andersons, AlbionEd Groholski, BurlingtonLarry Hoffman, MarshallVaughn Hoffman, MarshallJay Landis, HomerKeith Lawrence, HomerMike Mumaw, MarshallDoug Myers, MarshallRussell Myers, Battle CreekLarry Robinson, Homer

Cass CountyDoug Bent, JonesCommunity Mills, CassopolisDaryl Griner, JonesJim Guse, CassopolisTom Kendle, EdwardsburgCynthia Kirkdorfer, EdwardsburgCade Klein, MarcellusBrian McKenzie, Marcellus

Clare CountyRay Rawson, Farwell

Clinton CountyEarl Barks, Saint JohnsWilliam Birney, Ovid*Russell and Laura Braun, OvidDoug Brya, Saint JohnsKale Demott, Saint JohnsDale Devereaux, OvidJack Enderle, DeWittLouis Faivor, Saint JohnsPat Feldpausch, FowlerThomas Galecka, OvidWilliam Kushmaul, Saint JohnsScott Miller, ElsieDavid Motz, Saint JohnsAbraham Nemcik, Saint Johns

David Schwark, OvidDavid Seeger, BathDonald Sisung, Saint JohnsEric Voisinet, LaingsburgDan Washburn, Elsie

Eaton CountyRoger Betz, Eaton RapidsCitizens Elevator Co. Inc.,

VermontvilleRon Converse, CharlotteJohn McManus, CharlotteDennis Orr, CharlotteGary Parr, CharlotteJohn Simpson, CharlotteRoy Simpson, CharlotteDuane Smuts, CharlotteDenis Starr, Olivet

Genesee CountyCody Ferry, OtisvilleMichael Horton, Swartz CreekWilliam Hunt, DavisonSteve Jennings, Swartz CreekNancy Swanebeck, FentonWilliam Szikszay, Otisville

Gratiot CountyScott Cary, AlmaLogan Crumbaugh, Saint LouisMark Crumbaugh, AshleyGregory Demott, AshleyJoseph Fabus, AshleyCraig McClintic, AlmaR. Alan Moore, BannisterJohn Sopocy, BannisterJohn Weller, MiddletonTed Wilk, Alma

Hillsdale CountyRichard Belson, PittsfordKeith Blonde, LitchfieldMichael Brasher, PittsfordJames Caldwell, LitchfieldDon Girdham, HillsdaleWilliam Hayward, HillsdaleDonald Johnson, CamdenRichard Kratzer, Allen

AssociationMembersHillsdale County, continuedRobert Lennard, ReadingLarry Mackey, HillsdaleWilliam Pridgeon, MontgomeryTom Schroeder, ReadingGordon Thompson, HillsdaleAndy Welden, JonesvilleScott Welden, JonesvilleDan Wonders, PittsfordNed Wyse, Camden

Huron CountyMichael Eden, Bay PortJanna and Joel Fritz, Bad AxeMel, Todd and Troy Gingrich, Bad AxeSteve Koroleski, KindeDarrin Lutz, SebewaingBrent Maust, Bay Port*Matt and Michelle Reibling, Sebewaing

Ingham CountyCorn Marketing Program of

Michigan, Lansing Peter Crawford, DansvilleCremer Farm Center Inc., WilliamstonCharles Dietz, WilliamstonTim Dietz, WilliamstonElden Gustafson, WilliamstonSidney Hawkins, MasonAnthony Igl, MasonJerry Jorgensen, WebbervilleSteven Lott, MasonBruce Noel, LeslieDonald Rice, LeslieTheresa Sisung-MFB, LansingSteve Wagner, OkemosJoe Walker, WebbervilleJake Wamhoff, East LansingGary Wilcox, Dansville

Ionia CountyJP Clover, IoniaEdward Feuerstein, BeldingGreg and Heather Feuerstein, IoniaBill Martin, PewamoMike Miller, MuirKevin Page, LyonsJeff Sandborn, PortlandJim Sparks, Saranac

Iosco CountyTerry Bellville, Whittemore

Isabella CountyBrian Boge, ShepherdDaniel Epple, Mount PleasantKurt Fisher, Mount PleasantDwane Guthrie, Mount Pleasant

Jackson CountyJeff Alexander, HanoverRichard L. Dobbins, ConcordRichard P. Dobbins, Spring ArborEdward Fox, SpringportBingham Lockwood, Jackson

Kalamazoo CountyHarlow Bailey, SchoolcraftRon Balowski, ClimaxEdward Cagney, ScottsJames Campbell, RichlandWilliam Dimond, KalamazooDave Dyer, RichlandDan Hice, SchoolcraftRudolph Hirzel, ClimaxScott Jirgens, KalamazooIra Krupp, VicksburgArt Mezo, GalesburgLarry Phelps, VicksburgLee Phelps, SchoolcraftRob Richardson, VicksburgDave Rutten, ScottsRon White, Scotts

Kent CountyCarlton Blough, LowellDennis Heffron, BeldingTim Kruithoff, Kent CityRandy Maschke, LowellGail Norman, SpartaFred Patin, Sand LakeDick Suwyn, Caledonia

Lapeer CountyJohn Brendel, North Branch*Kevin and Debbie Daley, LumJohn Ferkowicz, SilverwoodSteve Hoeksema, Imlay CityEdwin Kalbfleisch, Brown City

Chris Muto, ColumbiavilleAl Parsch, Imlay CityDavid Penzien, AtticaTracy Sohn, North Branch

Lenawee CountyMichael Beagle, BlissfieldWilliam Bierman, RigaWilliam Dodds, OnstedJeffrey Ehlert, BlissfieldZell Eisenmann, BlissfieldFred Feight, TecumsehRobert Forgiel, TecumsehJames Goetz, BlissfieldLarry Gould, MorenciJoseph Horak, DeerfieldJames and Laurie Isley, PalmyraAsa Kelley, AddisonTed Mason, BlissfieldRoberta Merillat, HudsonRick Ries, Sand CreekDouglas Sherman, TecumsehBrian Stutzman, JasperEd Stutzman, BlissfieldMatthew Stutzman, AdrianWilliam Stutzman, BlissfieldTroy Vandenbusche, JasperWilliam White I, HudsonPaul Wielfaert, BrittonDouglass Wilkin, Britton

Livingston CountyClark Humrich, WebbervilleVan Gilder Farms, Fowlerville

Macomb CountyMatt Doss, RayAmanda Kutchey, MacombMarvin Yaek, Richmond

Midland CountyRandy Laurenz, Breckenridge

Monroe CountyCraig Benore, ErieJaimie Benore, ErieNed Birkey, IdaCharlene Blanchett, MonroeDelmer Cilley, DundeeRoland Cousino, TemperanceDouglas Darling, MaybeeFrancis Deutsch, DundeeMike Dick, IdaGary Drodt, IdaBradley Dubke, CarletonGerald Heck, MonroeCarol Herkimer, MonroeRichard Janssens, MonroeJeremy Kiger, MilanGary Kreps, TemperanceLarry LaPointe, TemperanceMark Mathis, MonroeLarry Metz, IdaMarvin Reaume, South RockwoodDavid Revels, MonroeDonald Sahloff, Ottawa LakeDan Secord, MonroeJohn Secord, MonroeHerb Smith, TemperanceMary Lou Smith, PetersburgJohn and Joe Stanger, DundeePaul Taylor, Ottawa LakeJames White, PetersburgRobert L Zorn Inc., La Salle

Montcalm CountyLarry McCrackin, Carson CityTom Ryan, Carson CityBrent Wilson, Carson City

Oakland CountyClay Ottoni, Waterford

Oceana CountyAndy and Zack Snider, Hart

Ogemaw CountyBrian Bellville, Prescott

Ottawa CountyDan Bailey, ZeelandDavid Brink, HollandCurtis Mans, ZeelandCliff Meeuwsen, ZeelandKenneth Zahm, MarneHerb Zahm, Marne

Saginaw CountyLarry Beyersdorf, HemlockRaymon Birchmeier, New LothropArt Cuthbertson, Birch RunTom Dorr, Birch RunMarc Ebenhoeh, ChesaningDavid Eickholt, ChesaningRandall Ettema, FrankenmuthBrian Frederick, HemlockM. Dean Haubenstricker,

FrankenmuthRon and Mark Helmreich, FreelandThomas Hoff, SaginawRoger Huper, FreelandMark Ivan, FreelandDan Keenan, MerrillFrederick Keith, BurtFrank Kunik, SaginawKevin Kunik, Saint CharlesCharlene LeCronier, FreelandJames Letterman, Birch RunGregory Mahoney, Saint CharlesFrank Marcello, HemlockDonald Maurer, SaginawDaniel Maxa, Burt*Allison Morse, Birch RunDonald Morse, Birch RunJohn Mossner, FrankenmuthGreg Murphy, FreelandJim Murphy, HemlockJohn Murphy, FreelandBonnie Neuenfeldt, HemlockAndrew Opperman, SaginawLarry Palmreuter, FrankenmuthDonald Reinbold, ReeseEsther Reinbold, SaginawJeff Reinbold, SaginawMichael Sahr, SaginawHarold Scharrer, Birch RunJohn Schian, ReeseKenneth Schramke, SaginawMark Seamon, SaginawDiane Seamon, SaginawWayne Squanda, SaginawDonald Terwillegar, FreelandJohn Vasold, FreelandJoe Wasmiller, Saint Charles

Saint Clair CountyRon Beier, ChinaJohn Coyle, GoodellsJames Domagalski, Columbus

Alvin Ferguson, AllentonDennis Fox, GoodellsScott Jackson, Fort GratiotDonald Koning, Imlay CityMarty Lewis, North StreetGerald Opificius, MusseyRon Parks, AllentonRandy Peters, MemphisJim Reid, JeddoRon Rodzos, MemphisRichard Sopha, Saint ClairAlfred Stuever, YaleDale Stuever, LynnJohn Sulkowski, GoodellsRichard Townsend, JeddoWilliam Vogelsberg, YaleBernice Westrick, China

Saint Joseph CountyMax Benne, SturgisJames Borgert, Burr OakDoug Brueck, LeonidasLuke Gentz, LeonidasRoger Gentz, MendonWalter Hekter, ConstantineRandy King, SturgisRobert Kline, MendonHenry Miller, ConstantineChris Pueschel, SturgisDavid Sturgis, Sturgis

Sanilac CountyDwight Bartle, Brown CityMike Blashill, CroswellRyan Brown, SanduskyGerry Burgess, YaleC&H Heussner Farms LLC, Marlette*Grant Davidson, DeckervilleBernie Davies, MelvinTom Durand, CroswellRobert Elston, MelvinJay Ferguson, Brown CityJeffrey Furness, YaleDennis Gardner, CroswellRonald Gerstenberger, SanduskyCliff Gordon, Croswell*Kurt and Shannon Kreger, SnoverHarold MacAlpine, SnoverDuane McAllister, Brown CityDavid McConnachie, DeckervilleTom McLeod, Brown CityChad McNaughton, Croswell

Sanilac County, continuedC. Renzie Milarch, Port SanilacStefan Nitsch, MelvinMichael Noll, CroswellJohn O’Hair, CroswellDennis Quandt, PeckLess Severance, DeckerRon and Rob Steenbergh, Melvin*Nicholas Stone, SanduskyStoutenburg Farms, SanduskyWilson Brothers, YaleScott Wilson, Lexington

Shiawassee CountyLeonard Ash, OwossoGerald Buginsky, OwossoRobert Corrin, OwossoJeff Fromm, OwossoDavid Jacobs, New LothropRichard Jacobs, New LothropRichard Kalisek, CorunnaAnthony Kondel, CorunnaSamantha Krhovsky, CorunnaRandy Markley, ByronGene Maynard, ElsieMark Senk, OwossoJordan Smith, PerryBill Spike, OwossoJohn Stasa, OwossoJeff Vogl, HendersonBrian Washburn, ElsieRonald Weisenberger, New LothropDavid Williams, ElsieGeorge Zmitko, OwossoGeorge Zmitko II, Owosso

Tuscola CountyRobert Adamic, SilverwoodBrian and Anthony Bierlein, ReeseChris Creguer, UnionvilleRichard D’Arcy, KingstonKurt Ewald, UnionvilleJason Haag, UnionvilleDennis Hadeway, FairgroveJeff Harrington, ReeseKent Houghtaling, ReeseDwight Keinath, MillingtonRobert Keinath, MillingtonWilliam Kirk, FairgroveJim Kratz, Caro*Jeff Laverty-Quality Roasting, ReeseKeith Little, Cass CityDavid Milligan, Cass City

Keith Reinholt, ReeseRoger Root, Cass City*Carla and Paul Schultz, MayvillePatrick Sheridan, FairgroveDavid Sting, UnionvilleRobert Stockmeyer, ReeseTodd Stockmeyer, ReeseDennis Wagner, ReeseLouis Wehrman, ReeseMichael Wildner, UnionvilleTerry Wood, UnionvilleCharles and Ron Zwerk, Reese

Van Buren County*Mike and Casey Bozung, BangorCornerstone Ag Enterprises,

South HavenHarold Hamlin, South HavenDan Rajzer, Decatur

Washtenaw CountyEldean Bauer, SalineDuane Beuerle, ManchesterElgin Darling, WillisGirbach Farms, Saline Phil Gordon, SalineRobert Graichen, YpsilantiErnest Karnatz, YpsilantiGeorge McCalla, MilanJamie Robson, MilanFrank Rochowiak, MilanPhilip Selter, YpsilantiDuane Sheats, Milan

Wayne CountyDonald Korte, CantonMarvin Lange, BellevillePlant Tuff Inc, DearbornRobert Robson, Romulus

Out-of-StateGordon Rogers, Chatham, CN



Highl ight ing the MI Soybean Value Chain to Japan Food

Bean Trade TeamBy: Kathy Maurer, Financial and International Marketing Director

In mid-August, a Japan Food Bean trade team visited Michigan and Ohio through a combined project partnering with the U.S. Soybean Export Council

(USSEC). The 12 visitors included representatives from nine food companies who produce tofu, miso, soy beverages, soy snacks, etc. along with three soybean traders from Japan. Trade team visits help to build confidence and show the value chain of Michigan and U.S. soybeans. Seeing soybeans through the different phases of the value chain assures buyers that the high-quality soybeans they order are the high-quality soybeans they will receive.

International markets are key to the success of U.S. soybean farmers. When we work with buyers from outside of the U.S., soybean farmers and their bottom lines benefit. In 2018 Japan imported $996.5 million dollars of soybeans and soybean products. $28.9 million of those soybeans came from Michigan. Sharing the high quality of Michigan soybeans with international buyers is a direct benefit to Michigan farmers.

Step One – Genetics Dr. Dechun Wang from Michigan State University

and his team are developing genetics for specialty soybean varieties. The group asked good questions and were very interested in his work. They see the potential for new markets in Japan. Dr. Wang’s working is highlighting the importance and quality of U.S., and specifically Michigan soybeans.

Step Two – Seed Production The trade team values a high-quality product and

wanted to know how the seeds are protected for purity. They also wondered what testing is done to protect the integrity of different varieties. Alan Moore, owner of Moore Seed Farm showed the process of raising seed and the different tests keeping things in check.

Josh Neyhart, Policy Advisor for Governor Whitmer’s office attended the tour and joined the group dinner at the farm. Why invite the Governor’s office to a trade team visit? Doing so helps them see how invested farmers are in working to promote their

Randy Laurenz and Dr. Dechun Wang explaing the soybean breeding work at Michigan State University.

Alan Moore explaining the seed development process.

31Winter 2019

Your Soybean Checkoffsoybeans to the world. The more our government officials learn about farmers and farming practices, the better connected they are to the ag industry as a whole.

Step Three – Raising Soybeans Gary and Nick Parr opened their farm to the trade

team for a tour and luncheon. Gary is growing natto soybeans this year. Natto soybeans are used to make a fermented breakfast food rich in probiotics and are considered a staple food in Japan. State Representative Angela Witwer also attended to learn the great work soybean farmers are doing to market their soybeans and to check on the soybeans she helped plant in the spring during a ride along with Gary.

Step Four – Grain Elevator Citizens Elevator gave a tour of their facility. The

tour highlighted the different levels of testing they use to assure the soybeans are high quality and variety pure. Their soybeans are then packaged for shipping to different global markets.

After leaving Michigan, the Japan Food Bean trade team attended the U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange (GTE) in Chicago, Illinois. This is the largest event for buyers of U.S. soybeans. Over 500 buyers from 50 different countries come together for the sole purpose of buying U.S. soybeans. An important part of this event is bringing trade teams into different areas where soybeans are grown in the U.S. While the Japanese team was visiting Michigan and Ohio, other teams were visiting other soybean growing states.

Working together we are moving U.S. soybeans, a benefit to all soybean farmers. The GTE allows USSEC members the opportunity to visit with vetted buyers from around the world. For example, if a company is interested in trading with someone from Taiwan, they are matched with a buyer from Taiwan. They are allowed a 45-minute private meeting and then have the next few days to make more connections with the buyers. It also gives the trade teams the opportunity to visit with Michigan members such as Michigan Ag Commodities, Star of the West, Citizens Elevator and Zeeland Farm Services.

The GTE also includes speakers who provide updates on trade, logistics, markets and other concerns and opportunities for U.S. soybeans. Ted McKinney, the Under Secretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, addressed the group. He is working towards free and fair trade, leaving no stone unturned.

Trade team visits are just one way we are working together to build relationships and trust and build soybean markets for U.S. and Michigan soybean farmers.

Gary Parr explaining natto soybeans.

Japan Food Bean Trade Team at the Moore Seed Farm.

Bob Mansfield of Citizens Elevator explaining the sorting process.

Michigan Winter 2019 oybean ewSa dairy farm with my father and eventually moved out of that business...

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