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MANKATO – The future of agriculture is in the hands of Minnesota farmers. That’s why the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council continues hosting the annual F
Shaping soy’s future starts with making valuable connections through conversations with farmer leaders, researchers and industry partners. The Future of Soy aims to create an environment where farmers and industry leaders connect, both on the water and in meeting rooms, to move the soybean industry to new heights.
“It’s not often you get to sit across the table from the people who are doing research for the future of soybeans, and this is a really good opportunity to share, ‘What are your challenges in the field? What do you want to see the future of soybeans to look like?’” said Faribault farmer Gail Donkers, who chairs MSR&PC. “I just think it’s such a unique opportunity to talk one-on-one with not just the researchers, but seasoned Minnesota Soybean farmer leaders as well.”
Agenda topics on Day 1 include a look inside the leadership journeys of MSR&PC and Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) directors; a primer on how MSR&PC and MSGA work together (and separately) to improve farmer profitability; and a session on preventing workplace burnout. Day 2 will include table talks with soy checkoff-supported researchers on a range of topics, including soy-based products; soybean breeding and genetics; pest management;
“The Future of Soy is a one-of-a-kind experience to visit with my fellow farmers and discuss not just our livelihoods, but our families, our paths to leadership and the benefits of representing our farmers,” said MSGA President Darin Johnson, who’s attending this year’s Summit. “In agriculture leadership, you get out what you put in, and I can say from experience that I’ve gotten a whole lot out of it – from developing lifelong friendships to helping improve the bottom lines of our farmers.”
There will also be plenty of time for side conversations in a relaxed setting during a cruise on Pelican Lake and other social gatherings during the Future of Soy. Families are also encouraged to join Future of Soy attendees for a summer getaway.
Interested farmers can play their role in the future of soybeans by applying by May 31 for this invite-only event.
“It’s a great place to get onboard with all the other people who strongly believe in Minnesota Soybean and meet others who share those values,” Donkers said. “It’s going to open a lot of doors for future opportunities. The world is your oyster.”
MSR&PC news release


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