You’re already an expert; share your expertise and insights in soybean production as a Soy Envoy. The Soy Envoy program, an initiative by ILSoyAdvisor and ISA, features seasoned experts in the soybean industry offering valuable insights to Illinois soybean farmers. This team of six professionals shares their extensive agronomic knowledge through various mediums, including written articles, videos, and audio interviews. The application period ends February 2, 2024.

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Illinois Department of Agriculture, and University of Illinois Extension recently released the 2023 Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy Biennial Report, which highlights efforts to reduce nutrient loss from non-point source, point source, and urban stormwater sectors across the state. The Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy (NLRS) is a state-wide effort to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus loading into Illinois waterways, the Mississippi River, and eventually the Gulf of Mexico.

On November 28, ISA hosted its second annual Impact Awards Banquet and Ceremony to recognize several deserving farmers, legislators, media, and friends of agriculture for their dedication to the soybean industry. At the event, ISA welcomed Jacqueline Applegate, President of Bayer Crop Science North America, as the keynote speaker and celebrated the recipients of the 2023 Achievement Awards, which included Bob Easter, Holly Spangler, the Clavin Family, Gary Schnitkey, and Representative Mike Bost. Additionally, ISA acknowledged the 2023 Illinois 20 Under 40 Farmers, recipients of the ILSoyAdvisor CCA Awards, retiring Board Directors, and commended ISA's outgoing Chairman, Steve Pitstick, for his exceptional service to the ISA Board and Illinois soybean farmers.

During a classic Thanksgiving meal, you'll find a spread that includes turkey, stuffing, ham, mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potatoes, dishes like green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie topped with whipped cream, and much more. Although soy isn't the primary focus here, it does hold significance. Do you know where soy makes an appearance? Its presence extends beyond just the plant-based tofurkey protein or the occasional edamame starter.

Last week, the ISA Market Development team hosted German agriculture influencers, including both farmers and media experts. During their visit, the group toured the farms of ISA board members in Atlanta and Kankakee and engaged with ISA’s Soybean Production, Market Development, and Marketing Communications departments at the Bloomington office.

The B20 Club is a partnership between ISA and the American Lung Association which recognizes Illinois-based organizations whose fleets run on biodiesel blends of 20 percent or greater. Recently, the group welcomed new members ADM and Wilmette Park District, while the Village of Mundelein became an Affiliate Member with plans to transition into a full membership in the near future.