UnitedSoybean.org Soy News

Growing the Game Changer in Soybean Traits

2011-09-09T20:52+00:00

Ohio soybean farmer John Motter took a chance in 2011 and grew a variety with a brand-new soybean trait: high-oleic oil. Industry representatives call the high-oleic trait the “game changer” for U.S. soybeans because it offers an improved oil that the food industry needs, which in return boosts demand for U.S. soybean oil. Motter, a soybean che...

Canal Expansion Could Improve Competitiveness of U.S. Soy

2011-10-04T20:08+00:00

ST. LOUIS (October 4, 2011) – An extensive study coordinated by the United Soybean Board’s (USB) Global Opportunities (GO) program expects a new, larger shipping lane through the Panama Canal to double the area that draws U.S. soy to Mississippi River destinations eventually destined for export through Gulf of Mexico ports. The soybean checkof...

Soybean Checkoff Reflects on Achievements of Past 20 Years

2011-09-29T17:02+00:00

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the soybean checkoff, and an opportunity to reflect on how U.S. soybean farmers have been able to control their destiny and become major players in the global soy industry over the last two decades.

Checkoff Sponsors NFU Farmer Leadership Program

2011-09-29T16:57+00:00

The National Farmers Union (NFU), one of the two biggest general farm organizations in the United States, introduced a new national program to develop leadership and farm management skills for men and women starting out in farming. The United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff helped co-sponsor the event, held in mid September.

Checkoff Urges Farmers to Think Beyond the Elevator – at an Elevator

2011-09-29T16:47+00:00

The United Soybean Board (USB) will partner with JBS United Feed and the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) to share information with soybean farmers about their No.1 customer, the U.S. animal agriculture sector.

Checkoff Survey Demonstrates U.S. Soybean Quality to Overseas Customers

2011-09-20T20:58+00:00

ST. LOUIS (September 21, 2011) – Each fall U.S. soybean farmers have an opportunity to let international buyers review the quality of that year’s soybean crop. The U.S. Soybean Quality Survey, supported by the United Soybean Board (USB) and the soybean checkoff, collects samples from U.S. soybean farmers to analyze for a full report that the U.S....

Soybean Farmers Score Big in New Football Season

2011-09-19T17:29+00:00

ST. LOUIS (Sept. 19, 2011) – U.S. soybean farmers – especially those in Kansas – are undoubtedly especially proud this season of the Kansas State University (KSU) Wildcats – or, more specifically, their stadium playing field. KSU recently installed AstroTurf® GameDay Grass™ at Bill Snyder Family Stadium in Manhattan. AstroTurf products include...

Field of Beans

2011-09-17T13:40+00:00

Your soybeans can be used to make food, feed and fuel. And fields. Kansas State University kicked off its new season recently on AstroTurf® GameDay Grass™ artificial turf at Bill Snyder Family Stadium in Manhattan. AstroTurf products include a soy-based backing called BioCel®, from Universal Textile Technologies. BioCel uses soy-based-polyol t...

New Nematodes Knowledge Needed

2011-09-15T14:01+00:00

115 MILLION BUSHELS LOST: That’s about how much yield soybean cyst nematodes (SCN) steal from U.S. soybean farmers on average each year. In fact, nationwide, no other pest or disease hurts U.S. soybean yields more.

The Smell of Success

2011-09-15T13:57+00:00

Every year, U.S. soybean farmers face crop pests, diseases and weather-related stresses. While some may be easily addressed, others really stink – literally!

Taking the “Year of Soy” to Next Level

2011-09-09T20:54+00:00

When it comes to state fairs, fried foods reign supreme. At the themed “Year of the Soybean” for the Indiana State Fair, some of the event’s favorite fried foods received an upgrade – thanks to high-oleic soybean oil and the soybean-checkoff-funded Indiana Soybean Alliance.

USB Aims to Push Yields to 59.5 Bu./A by 2030

2011-09-02T17:07+00:00

Every farmer knows crop yield largely determines profitability. When it comes to soybean and corn yields, corn has long had the edge. But a new effort by the soybean checkoff aims to even the score, boosting U.S. soybean yields and, in turn, the value of every acre planted to soybeans in the United States.

State Set to Celebrate Soybean Farmers

2011-09-02T15:19+00:00

MARTIN, Tenn. (September 2, 2011) — As fields across the Tennessee countryside begin to shift from bright green to golden brown, it’s time to give thanks to the state’s largest crop, the soybean. This year the United Soybean Board (USB) will help co-sponsor the 18th annual Tennessee Soybean Festival in downtown Martin, Sept. 3-11, 2011. “The so...

Panama Canal Expansion Holds Questions for Soybean Industry

2011-09-01T17:16+00:00

U.S. soybean farmers depend on U.S. ports to export their harvested beans around the world. That’s why the pending expansion of the Panama Canal could hold implications for U.S. soybean farmers.

Checkoff Helps Share Production Research Solutions

2011-09-01T17:05+00:00

Case studies have shown that some of the problems occurring in U.S. soybean fields already have solutions available. But many U.S. soybean farmers may not know those solutions exist.

New Label, Green Fairs Feature Soy-Based Products

2011-09-01T16:57+00:00

Soy can replace petroleum-based chemicals in many products, and now soy-based products can feature a new label making it easier for consumers to identify products made from renewable resources.

Essential Info for Animal Ag Sector

2011-09-01T16:51+00:00

The animal agriculture sector consumes about 98 percent of the U.S. soybean meal, so providing information on soybean meal to the feed industry remains vital.

Consumers Give Soy High Marks for Health

2011-08-17T16:28+00:00

ST. LOUIS (August 17, 2011) – The vast majority of Americans continue to view food made with soy ingredients as healthy, according to a survey conducted by the United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff. The annual Consumer Attitudes about Nutrition survey shows 81 percent of consumers see soy as healthy. Just 5 percent view them as unheal...

USB Survey Shows Americans Love Soyfoods

2011-08-17T14:21+00:00

Most U.S. consumers continue to view food made with soy ingredients as healthy, which serves as good news for U.S. soybean farmers, considering that more than four out of every five pounds of the soybean oil used in this country go to the food industry.

Selling U.S. soybeans means selling biotech

2011-08-16T18:55+00:00

It may be hard to believe, but biotechnology isn’t always well understood. And that lack of understanding sometimes turns into active opposition that can block the sale of U.S. soy in some countries

USDA Announces 19 USB Farmer-Director Appointments

2011-08-10T20:55+00:00

ST. LOUIS (August 12, 2011) – Nineteen farmer-leaders will be sworn in as directors of the United Soybean Board (USB) in December, after receiving appointment recently by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The 19 soybean farmers from across the United States include seven new appointees and 12 returning directors. These volunteers work to...

Soybean Checkoff Aims to Push Yields to 59.5 Bu/A by 2030

2011-08-08T20:08+00:00

ST. LOUIS (August 8, 2011) – Every farmer knows crop yield largely determines profitability. When it comes to corn and soybean yields, corn has long had the edge. But a new effort by the soybean checkoff aims to even the score, boosting U.S. soybean yields and, in turn, the value of every acre planted to soybeans in the United States. The Uni...

Soybean Checkoff Maps New Course for U.S. Soy Industry

2011-07-22T20:43+00:00

In July, United Soybean Board (USB) farmer-directors met in Milwaukee to discuss the long-term direction of the soybean industry.

Soybean Checkoff Offers Online Plant Management Information

2011-07-22T20:34+00:00

The United Soybean Board (USB) currently offers farmers and farmer-influencers one-year subscriptions to Plant Management Network’s (PMN) online resources. Farmer-leaders on the USB Communications program approved funding for the PMN subscriptions to ensure that farmers and farmer-influencers receive the latest crop stress management information...

Poultry Sector Remains Top Meal Market Despite Challenges

2011-07-22T20:26+00:00

The U.S. broiler industry consumes over 12.7 million tons of U.S. soybean meal, or more than 45 percent of the total domestic soybean meal usage. This represents the soybean meal from about 590 million bushels of U.S. soybeans, according to Bill Roenigk, senior vice president of the National Chicken Council (NCC), who addressed USB farmer-directors...

Extending a Helping Hand

2011-07-22T20:13+00:00

The United Soybean Board (USB) and the soybean checkoff continue to help those affected by the earthquake and resulting tsunami and nuclear disaster in Japan by assisting small businesses there in donating food to those in need.

Soybean Checkoff Captures U.S. Soy Industry On Air and Online

2011-07-22T20:04+00:00

The United Soybean Board (USB) and the soybean checkoff have easy access to a video snapshot on major issues facing U.S. soybean farmers and the rest of the U.S. soy industry. Check out “Beyond the Bean On-Air (“BTBOA”)” TV and radio shows from the USB website.

USB Identifies Focus Areas for U.S. Soy Industry

2011-07-22T19:57+00:00

Farmer-leaders of the United Soybean Board (USB) recently met and discussed, among other topics, high-impact, checkoff-funded projects geared to achieve tangible results in specific focus areas for U.S. soybean farmers and the rest of the U.S. soy industry.

UPS Begins Using Biodiesel at Major U.S. Hub

2011-07-22T19:49+00:00

What can SOY do for you? It starts by helping the company known for its brown go green. The United Parcel Service (UPS) recently began using soy biodiesel at its most vital hub, in Louisville, Ky., a location that processes 416,000 packages per hour and turns around 100 aircraft per day.

Biodiesel Goes High Profile

2011-07-22T18:52+00:00

Farmers and many others tuning-in to their favorite Sunday-morning news shows will see a new addition to the lineup: biodiesel. Part of the advanced biofuels initiative, a marketing program funded in part by United Soybean Board (USB) and several state soybean checkoff boards, the new commercial highlights the benefits of biodiesel. A photo from th...

Biodiesel Power

2011-07-14T14:22+00:00

When was the last time you attended a tractor pull? Whether it’s been a long while or just the other day, you may not know that biodiesel, most of which is made from your processed soybeans, plays a part in the premier U.S. tractor-pulling organization.

Technology Can Help You Save Fuel, Improve Farm Efficiency

2011-07-14T13:58+00:00

There’s a new generation of technology that can help you conserve fuel on the farm, and it has nothing to do with the engine in your tractors or combines.

Soybean Checkoff Supports Conservation Legacy Awards

2011-07-12T14:02+00:00

ST. LOUIS (July 12, 2011) – Soybean checkoff-funded research shows U.S. soybean farmers remain committed to sustainably increasing production in order to meet growing global demand for food. The United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff will co-sponsor the American Soybean Association’s (ASA’s) Conservation Legacy Awards as a way of recogni...

U.S. Soybean Farmers Show Their Products at Fairs

2011-07-08T18:43+00:00

This summer, at some prominent state and county fairs from Kansas to New York, the restrooms will be painted with soy-based paint, the parking lots will be treated with soy-based dust suppressant and the rides will run on soy biodiesel.

Soy-Based Products Win Green Ribbons at Fairs

2011-07-08T18:38+00:00

ST. LOUIS (July 8, 2011) – This summer, U.S. soybean farmers will show some of their products at 11 state, county and regional fairs. The soybean checkoff’s Green Ribbon Fairs program will introduce millions of fair attendees – from both rural and urban areas – to the benefits of soy-based consumer and industrial products. The United Soybean Bo...

Perception vs. Reality

2011-07-08T03:13+00:00

Success in agriculture does not come without its share of risks, such as unpredictable weather and large capital investments. It also comes with potential threats, such as some of the claims of animal welfare groups, environmental regulations and distorted perceptions of food safety issues.

Soybean Checkoff Charts New Course for the U.S. Soy Industry

2011-07-07T22:27+00:00

ST. LOUIS (July 7, 2011) – Like soybean farmers who carefully map out their planting, spraying and harvesting plans in advance, the farmer-leaders of the soybean checkoff mapped the future of the U.S. soy industry. United Soybean Board (USB) farmer-leaders recently voted to approve the checkoff’s new Long-Range Strategic Plan (LRSP), which iden...

Planting Summertime Fun

2011-07-07T14:25+00:00

Looking for a different way to spend a weekend this summer? Check out a local soybean festival throughout your soybean-growing region. From the looks of things, you’ll be well fed, see great entertainment and maybe even learn something new about soybeans. Some examples of prominent soybean festivals throughout the United States:

Hungry, Hungry Customers

2011-07-07T04:08+00:00

A growing number of people around the world are eating more meat today than in years past. As the global population and individual incomes rise, so, too, does demand for meat, which translates into more demand for quality animal feed such as U.S. soybean meal.

A Farmer’s Guide to Soy’s Top Customers

2011-07-06T14:13+00:00

Contrary to popular belief, your local elevator is not your most important customer. Mack McCary would know. He became well acquainted with his local elevator before he retired as the production manager at the Townsends Inc. elevator and processing plant in Millsboro, Del., after 25 years of service. He’s quite clear on the number of soybeans he�...

A World of Profitability

2011-07-05T17:56+00:00

Your biggest customers are truly a bunch of animals. Here at home, the poultry and livestock sector represents your biggest customer, and outside of the United States it’s no different. The growth in international poultry and livestock production goes hand in hand with the growth in U.S. soy exports, and both directly impact you and your fellow U...

What’s in It for Me?

2011-07-05T16:44+00:00

Somewhere in soybean country, a farmer is scratching his head, wondering why the soybean checkoff spent his hard-earned money to print a magazine, or post a website article, about chickens and pigs. Maybe it’s you, asking yourself, “How does animal agriculture benefit me?”

Who’s Hungry?

2011-07-05T14:57+00:00

Bumps in the Road Ahead, but Path Ripe with Potential

2011-07-04T15:17+00:00

United Soybean Board (USB) Director Mike Beard farms near Frankfort, Ind. Beard and his wife, Pamela, operate a soybean, corn and pork farm with their son. He also works with his son and son-in-law in a waste application service. Beard is in his third year as a USB director and also serves as a county commissioner.

Update from Turkey on the future of functional food

2011-06-24T15:48+00:00

Editor’s Note: The soybean checkoff works to support the acceptance of biotechnology globally, in order to ensure U.S. soybean exports can be sold in every country in the world. As part of that effort, the Biotech Initiative organizes Biotech U, a two-day seminar on the campus of the University of Missouri-Columbia in which journalism students �...

Ag Shippers Raise the Grade for Railroads in Checkoff-Funded Survey

2011-06-20T20:45+00:00

ST. LOUIS (June 20, 2011) – The 47 million tons of soybeans, soybean meal and soybean oil that crisscross the United States each year must make it to their delivery points on time – or within reason. A recent soybean-checkoff-funded survey shows most major railroad companies do a pretty good job getting them there. The U.S. agricultural shipper...

Soybean Farmers to Get Firsthand Look at Checkoff in Action

2011-06-06T20:29+00:00

ST. LOUIS (June 6, 2011) -The road from the typical U.S. soybean farm to a major poultry, pork and dairy operation in western Mexico may not seem clear at first, but, as 10 U.S. soybean farmers are about to find out in the United Soybean Board’s (USB) “See for Yourself” program, it’s more direct than they may think. The soybean checkoff selecte...

Biotech U

2011-05-31T20:17+00:00

Editor's Note: The soybean checkoff works to support the acceptance of biotechnology globally, in order to ensure U.S. soybean exports can be sold in every country in the world. As part of that effort, the checkoff's Biotech Initiative organizes Biotech U, a two-day seminar on the campus of the University of Missouri-Columbia in which journalism st...

These Soybean Farmers Are About to See for Themselves

2011-05-31T19:02+00:00

Ten U.S. soybean farmers from the Dakotas to Ohio will take part in an educational excursion with stops in St. Louis and Mexico, including at the massive PROAN farm (pictured), this summer as part of the United Soybean Board’s (USB) “See for Yourself” program.

Can U.S. Make Way for Larger Ships?

2011-05-26T17:58+00:00

Four out of ten bushels of U.S. soybeans on their way to international customers travel through the Panama Canal. U.S. soybean farmers who serve on the USB Global Opportunities Committee launched a study in partnership with the Soy Transportation Coalition that will explore the impact of the $5.25 billion effort to expand the canal’s locks, speed...

Outcome of WTO Talks Critical

2011-05-26T17:54+00:00

The United Soybean Board (USB) has been keeping a keen eye on developments out of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva, Switzerland. While negotiations remain stalled in the Doha Round, which launched nearly 10 years ago in an effort to reduce international trade barriers, some predict there is little chance of an agreement this year.

Countries Surrounding Black Sea Show Limited Prospects for U.S. Soybean Farmers

2011-05-26T17:50+00:00

Formerly part of the Soviet Union, Ukraine produces wheat, corn, barley, sunflowers, canola and a little soy. In addition to its own agriculture production—Ukraine has imported up to $350 million dollars of U.S. agricultural products a year including $180 million of U.S. poultry products for use primarily in sausage and bologna. It’s a growing...

East Coast Containerized Shipments Possible for U.S. Soy

2011-05-26T17:46+00:00

Many small and medium-size poultry, livestock and fish farmers in Europe cannot source their soybean meal needs directly via the bulk vessels shipped from U.S. ports, but still demand higher-quality soybean meal. One potential solution could result in more U.S. soy being shipped in individual containers out of East Coast ports, allowing for direct...

Ag Could Feel Brunt of Funding Future Surface Transportation

2011-05-26T17:41+00:00

A thorough examination of options under consideration to find new ways to fund road and highway repair could cut into the profit potential for U.S. farmers and ranchers. A United Soybean Board’s (USB) Global Opportunities (GO) program study, through a partnership with the Soy Transportation Coalition, found federal and state fuel tax revenues int...

Market Opens to Biotech

2011-05-26T17:32+00:00

Late last year, Turkey closed its ports to all biotech commodities – including U.S. soy – under a Turkish law mandating that all biotech crop imports pass an additional review and approval process before entering the country. The decision held significant implications for U.S. soybean farmers since they raise the majority of soybeans from biote...

Checkoff Teams with NTPA to Show Power of Biodiesel

2011-05-16T17:24+00:00

Whether you’re dragging a pulling sled down the track or a planter through the field, biodiesel will work for you. To demonstrate its performance benefits, the United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff will sponsor the summer season of the National Tractor Pullers Association (NTPA), including its Light Pro Stock pulling class for the secon...

USB’s GO Program Looks Ahead

2011-05-16T14:37+00:00

The United Soybean Board’s (USB) Global Opportunities (GO) program funds and carries out activities that identify challenges to solve and opportunities to capitalize on that can benefit the entire U.S. soy industry.

Checkoff Supports the Story of U.S. Agriculture on “America’s Heartland”

2011-05-11T18:22+00:00

ST. LOUIS (May 11, 2011) – The United Soybean Board (USB) and the soybean checkoff have made a major funding commitment to “America’s Heartland,” the highly rated, nationally distributed TV program on today’s agriculture aimed at consumers. The checkoff joins other agricultural organizations and businesses in their support and encourages others i...

Soybean Farmers’ Customers Extend Beyond the Elevator

2011-05-10T19:33+00:00

Know your customer. It’s a mantra in any business course. But surveys of U.S. soybean farmers in recent years show that many U.S. soybean farmers still consider the local elevator or soy processor as their one and only “customer.” In fact, they represent just one of the very early stops in the journey U.S. soybeans take to reach end-use custo...

Checkoff Teams with NTPA to Show Power of Biodiesel

2011-05-10T16:40+00:00

ST. LOUIS (May 10, 2011) – For the second year in a row, tractor pullers in the National Tractor Pullers Association’s (NTPA) Light Pro Stock class will be powered by high-performance biodiesel, thanks to a partnership with the United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff. USB and the NTPA have partnered since 2007 to increase the availabili...

Will U.S. Ports Be Ready for Record-Size Cargo Ships?

2011-05-06T20:39+00:00

ST. LOUIS. (May 9, 2011) – The pending expansion of the Panama Canal holds significant implications for U.S. soybean farmers, who depend on U.S. ports to export their harvested beans around the world, said Phil Bradshaw, a United Soybean Board (USB) past chairman and soybean farmer from Griggsville, Ill. Bradshaw delivered the remarks during a...

Soybean checkoff connecting with CONNECTIONS outcomes

2011-05-01T18:54+00:00

Every two years the United Soybean Board (USB) brings together soybean farmers, researchers, industry stakeholders such as soy processors, seed companies and food, feed and fuel representatives to discuss and prioritize opportunities and challenges for the next three to five years.

What’s on the minds of U.S. soybean farmers?

2011-05-01T18:46+00:00

The most recent checkoff-funded Producer Attitudes Survey indicates U.S. soybean farmers remain optimistic about their futures and the future of the U.S. soybean industry overall. The survey serves as one of two conducted each year to check the pulse of U.S. soybean farmers across the nation.

U.S. Soybean Farmers Do Their Part for Japan

2011-04-25T19:42+00:00

ST. LOUIS (April 25, 2011) – The United Soybean Board (USB), which represents the nearly 600,000 U.S. soybean farmers, will help Japanese small businesses that wish to donate food to those in need after multiple disasters in that country. The soybean checkoff plans to help Japanese companies including soyfood processors, suppliers and distribut...

Checkoff Points Out Sustainability on Earth Day

2011-04-25T14:08+00:00

ST. LOUIS (April 22, 2011) – The 41st anniversary of Earth Day marks a good time to recognize the commitment of U.S. soybean farmers to grow their crops in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. “We’ve practiced sustainability on our farm my whole life,” says David Wilson, United Soybean Board (USB) farmer-leader. “Preserving the soil...

U.S. Soybean Farmers See Bright Future Ahead

2011-04-21T20:09+00:00

ST. LOUIS (April 21, 2011) – U.S. soybean farmers remain optimistic about their futures and the future of the entire U.S. soybean industry, according to the latest soybean checkoff-funded survey of U.S. soybean farmers. The United Soybean Board (USB) conducts two surveys each year to check the pulse of soybean farmers across the nation. “The fu...

Checkoff Increases Support of Aquaculture

2011-04-19T16:08+00:00

According to research funded by the soybean checkoff, the aquaculture sector has the potential to use millions of bushels of U.S. soy in the future. The checkoff supports aquaculture producers along with all animal farmers, the leading customers of U.S. soybeans.

Biodiesel back in business in 2011

2011-04-08T13:03+00:00

To say the biodiesel industry faced challenges during the last two years would be an understatement, but the National Biodiesel Board’s (NBB) CEO, Joe Jobe, says things are moving in the right direction. The uncertainty and instability the industry saw in 2010 is behind it, and 2011 holds a lot of promise for the industry as a whole. “The last...

Checkoff Promotes Health Benefits of Soy During Soyfoods Month

2011-04-07T14:03+00:00

ST. LOUIS (April 7, 2011) – Soy for human consumption remains an important market for U.S. soybean farmers to reach consumers who desire healthier eating habits. To help spread the word that soy offers health benefits, the United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff will be taking part in various activities during national soyfoods month thro...

Soybean checkoff partners with soyfood organization to promote soy

2011-04-06T14:51+00:00

Many people try to eat healthier and make smart food choices. Soy can help. The 2010 U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Dietary Guidelines note soy as a healthful choice in several areas and also urges consumers to increase consumption of soyfoods. Through its domestic marketing program, the checkoff will be working with the Soyfoods Associa...

FAO Report: Global Fish Consumption Hits All-Time High

2011-03-31T21:30+00:00

Fish is gaining popularity as a mealtime option according to a recent report from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This report revealed that global fish consumption has hit an all-time high with per capita consumption reaching 7.7 pounds per person. The FAO credits this increase to the rise in aquaculture as an alternativ...

U.S. Aquaculture Guidelines Drafted

2011-03-31T21:26+00:00

With more people learning about the benefits of including seafood in their diets, thanks in part to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) 2010 dietary guidelines, the demand for seafood is calculated to rise. In addition, a growing world population with a greater hunger for protein will only add to this demand, equaling opportunity for the...

USDA: U.S. Farmers to Plant 76.6 Million Acres to Soybeans in 2011

2011-03-31T20:07+00:00

If you’re driving down the highway in New York or North Dakota this summer, you’ll probably see more soybeans in farm fields. The 2011 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Prospective Plantings report predicts farmers in those two states will increase soybean acreage the most this year and, along with other U.S. farmers, plan to plant 76.6 mil...

Demand for U.S. Soy Leads to 76.6 Million U.S. Acres of Soybeans

2011-03-31T19:25+00:00

ST. LOUIS (March 31, 2011) – U.S. farmers have taken notice of the growth in global demand for U.S. soybeans maintained in part by the United Soybean Board (USB) and the soybean checkoff. According to the 2011 Prospective Plantings report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S. farmers will plant 76.6 million acres of soybeans this yea...

Checkoff Helps Bring Benefits of Soy Products to Yellowstone

2011-03-30T18:55+00:00

ST. LOUIS (March 30, 2011) – At Yellowstone National Park, another sight as predictable as the park's famous Old Faithful Geyser is stuffed recycling bins generated by the park’s 3 million annual visitors. America’s first national park has led the way in innovative recycling programs, decreasing Yellowstone’s reliance on landfills. A new and uni...

U.S. Soybean Farmers Increase Support of Domestic Aquaculture

2011-03-25T18:24+00:00

ST. LOUIS (March 28, 2011) – Partnerships between U.S. seafood producers and U.S. soybean farmers continue to produce results as both seek ways to improve the U.S. aquaculture sector as a sustainable source of nutritious finfish and shellfish. The United Soybean Board (USB), which administers U.S. soybean farmers’ checkoff investments, along wi...

Biodiesel Returns U.S. Soybean Farmers’ Investment by the Billions

2011-03-25T18:01+00:00

ST. LOUIS (March 25, 2011) – An updated, independent study funded by the United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff shows production of biodiesel continues to positively impact U.S. soybean farmers’ on-farm profitability as well as the bottom lines of poultry and livestock farmers. According to the study, the biodiesel industry’s demand f...

Soy Fiber Fashion

2011-03-24T15:47+00:00

Like any good investment portfolio manager, the soybean checkoff diversifies its investments in new uses for U.S. soy into many specific areas with the highest potential for a return on investment, including plastics, coatings, inks, solvents, adhesives and emerging industrial opportunities. Now, checkoff farmer-leaders have identified the use of s...

Biodiesel brings big bucks back to U.S. soybean farmers

2011-03-22T22:47+00:00

Biodiesel production returned U.S. soybean farmers’ investment in the beneficial renewable fuel to the tune of nine to 27 cents per bushel, or $2.7 billion in net returns over the past five marketing years, according to a checkoff-funded study.

Checkoff Disputes EU’s Calculation of Soy Biodiesel’s Sustainability

2011-03-17T14:42+00:00

ST. LOUIS (March 17, 2011) – Two years’ worth of attempts by the soybean checkoff to convince Europeans of the sustainability of biodiesel made from U.S. soybean oil recently culminated in several “frustrating” meetings in Brussels between United Soybean Board (USB) Chairman Marc Curtis and several European Union (EU) officials. Under the EU Ren...

Soybean Checkoff’s Retooled Website Serves and Informs U.S. Soybean Farmers

2011-03-16T18:12+00:00

ST. LOUIS (March 16, 2011) – The United Soybean Board (USB) has retooled its website, www.unitedsoybean.org, to sharpen its focus on meeting the needs of the nearly 600,000 farmers who grow soybeans in the United States. The website features original articles and video reports that tell the many stories of U.S. soybean farmers and their soybean...

Checkoff Seeks Global Acceptance of Biotech to Help Farmers Feed the World

2011-03-15T20:43+00:00

ST. LOUIS. (March 15, 2011) – Today is National Ag Day, a time to celebrate the abundance provided by our nation’s farmers and ranchers. Every year, producers, agricultural associations, checkoff groups, corporations, universities, government agencies and countless others across America join together to recognize the contributions of American agr...

Winning Weed Wisdom

2011-03-14T17:36+00:00

One such project, funded by the South Dakota Qualified State Soybean Board, compares new U.S. soybean varieties and herbicide programs with conventional weed-control programs.

USB/ASA Code of Conduct

2011-03-14T17:17+00:00

The Memorandum of Understanding approved by the American Soybean Association (ASA) and United Soybean Board (USB) Board of Directors sets forth a commitment of both organizations to build a culture of trust. One means to achieve this goal is the Code of Conduct which is set forth below. The Code is applicable to USB and ASA Boards, executive co...

USB/ASA Memorandum of Understanding

2011-03-14T17:15+00:00

Preamble American Soybean Association (ASA) and United Soybean Board (USB) have reached an understanding that is intended to form the basis for an improved relationship between their organizations. This understanding has been achieved by finding common ground and includes an agreement to look to the future and move beyond past issues. ASA and U...

Soy Wood Adhesives Help Homeowners Breathe Easier

2011-03-14T16:12+00:00

When thinking about doing home construction, most contractors or weekend home improvement warriors probably give little thought to soybeans or formaldehyde. However, both can be used in the technologies that hold together the interiors of many of the homes in the United States.

Soy Facts at A Glance

2011-03-14T15:45+00:00

Most U.S. soybean farmers believe they can meet all the demands for their soybean crop, whether they be for food, feed, fiber or fuel. Last year, the World Bank released a report reversing earlier claims that biofuels production significantly impacts food prices. As this chart demonstrates, food price increases do not seem to follow changes in soy...

Building Consumer Confidence in Today’s Farming

2011-03-14T15:42+00:00

After uncovering disappointing results from an Internet search for videos about agriculture, Laura Nielson decided to take matters into her own hands. A third-generation farmer from South Dakota, Nielson, shown in the photo with her young neice, started a YouTube channel on the Internet to educate others about modern soybean farming and other aspec...

New world frontiers

2011-03-14T14:30+00:00

Every U.S. farmer’s investment to maintain and increase the profit potential of growing soybeans occurs well beyond the local elevator or soybean processor. U.S. soy exports have grown steadily for the past 10 years.

Changing Times on the Environmental Front

2011-03-14T14:23+00:00

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has targeted agriculture in the mid-Atlantic in yet another attempt to improve water quality in the Chesapeake Bay. With increased regulations come increased challenges for farmers in that area to stay in business.

Can U.S. ports handle growing soy exports?

2011-03-14T14:18+00:00

U.S. ports play a key role in the competitiveness of the U.S. soybean industry. Exports of U.S. soy, other oilseeds and their products, and grain have doubled in the last 10 years. But according to the U.S. Department of Commerce, existing port capabilities will be insufficient within the next decade.

Checkoff Ensures Research to Protect and Grow Yields

2011-03-14T13:27+00:00

As universities struggle to acquire government funding for agricultural research, many scientists believe the soybean checkoff continues to serve as a lifeboat to help keep some important soybean research projects afloat.

Exports Help as U.S. Meat Sales Drop

2011-03-09T20:45+00:00

U.S. livestock farmers, with the help of organizations such as the checkoff, have found one way to combat the weak economy’s effect on domestic meat sales – exports. According to the Livestock Marketing Information Center, consumption of meat dropped one pound per person in the United States in 2010.

Record Year for Meat Exports Benefits U.S. Soybean Farmers

2011-03-09T16:34+00:00

ST. LOUIS (March 9, 2011) – Domestic animal agriculture remains the largest consumer of U.S. soybeans, accounting for about 98 percent of the domestic supply of U.S. soybean meal. Because soybean meal makes up a significant portion of animal feed, the United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff work to maintain domestic demand for U.S. soybea...

U.S. Poultry and Livestock Fuel Rural Economies

2011-03-09T16:31+00:00

ST. LOUIS (March 8, 2011) – U.S. poultry and livestock farmers provide more than just meat, milk, eggs and other food, they also produce jobs, generate property tax revenues and contribute to household incomes. U.S. poultry and livestock also consume about 98 percent of the domestically used soybean meal, making them the number one customer for U...

Checkoff Honors Two for Work in Soyfoods, U.S. Soy Exports

2011-03-07T21:44+00:00

ST. LOUIS (March 7, 2011) – The United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff recently honored an individual who has devoted his career to studying the nutritional and health attributes of soy and another who helped transform China into the largest importer of U.S. soy. Recently at Commodity Classic, USB presented its Outstanding Achievement...

Soybean Checkoff Partners with Farm Bureau to Promote Value of Today’s Food

2011-02-22T23:28+00:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 22, 2011) – The soybean checkoff and American Farm Bureau Federation have partnered on a joint Internet Facebook page to promote national Food Check-Out Week this week. The week recognizes and celebrates the commitment of America’s farmers and ranchers to producing safe, healthy and abundant food. The week’s official th...

Checkoff Partners with Clean Cities to Promote Soy Biodiesel, Bioheat

2011-02-09T23:36+00:00

ST. LOUIS (February 9, 2011) – Farmer leaders of the United Soybean Board (USB) and the soybean checkoff will partner with 10 U.S. Department of Energy-affiliated Clean Cities coalitions to increase the availability and use of soy biodiesel and heating oil alternative Bioheat® through promotion and education. This year, checkoff farmer leaders...

U.S. Soybean Farmers to See Checkoff in Action

2011-02-07T22:48+00:00

ST. LOUIS (February 7, 2011) – Did you know one of the largest livestock operations in Mexico, PROAN, feeds 100 percent U.S. soybean meal to its 18 million hens, 6,000 dairy cattle and more than 20,000 sows each year? And 10 soybean farmers get to tour this state-of-the-art facility annually, thanks to the soybean checkoff. This is just one of...

Every dollar works for U.S. soybean farmers

2011-02-04T22:05+00:00

Some farmer-leaders who volunteer their time for the soybean checkoff are focused on tracking USB investments, ensuring every dollar spent to develop the U.S. soybean industry makes a strong return that helps soybean farmers remain profitable and efficient.