Agronomic Tip of the Week: Update on
SCN Resistance

By Greg Tylka, ISU Nematologist

The soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is a consistent threat to soybean production in Iowa. Each year ISU Extension publishes a list of SCN-resistant soybean varieties to help soybean growers know their options. The 2010 version of the publication has been recently released.

To learn more, click here.

ISA Responds to USDA Crop Report

According to the USDA's November crop report, soybean production is estimated at a record 3.375 billion bushels, down 1 percent from the October estimate but up slightly from last year.  The bigger news seems to be that estimates of soybean supply and distribution show exports increased by 50 million bushels and ending stocks were cut by 80 million bushels.

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ASA Policy Brief & Outlook: Special Report on the Mid-Term Elections

In light of the recent Congressional elections, this ASA report considers the message from voters, as well as what to expect during the lame duck session and in 2011. Gridlock is expected to continue despite happy talk from both sides about the need to compromise and work together.

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Improved Export Infrastructure Improves Farmers' Bottom Line

Three port projects in the United States will undoubtedly benefit U.S. farmers. Although these projects, located on the Gulf, at the Port of New Orleans and on the West Coast, seem very far away, the impact could soon be felt in the Midwest.

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Acre Challenge from ISA

By Randy Van Kooten, ISA President
and World Soy Foundation Board Member
A seven-year-old girl named Francisca in the West African country of Ghana knows why soybeans are called the miracle crop. Francisca’s family and teachers credit our crop for the fact that she now bubbles with energy, and she now has perfect school attendance.

Photo credit: ADRA International/Matt Herzel

To learn more, click here.

Putze Joins ISA as Director of
External Relations

Aaron Putze has joined ISA as director of external affairs. In the newly-created position, Putze will help coordinate ISA partnerships with local, state and national farm and commodity organizations and ag stakeholders to benefit grain and livestock farmers and their customers.

To learn more, click here.

ASA announces $5,000 Secure Optimal Yield Scholarship

The 2011-2012 Secure Optimal Yield Scholarship is a $5,000 one-time scholarship award to be presented to a high school senior pursuing agriculture as an area of study. Candidates may apply on-line through Nov. 15. The scholarship is managed by the American Soybean Association and made possible through a grant by BASF Corporation.

To learn more, click here.

ISA Policy Process Begins at Grass Roots

ISA’s policy process begins each year with a survey sent to all farmer members. Information from the policy surveys will be shared and priorities determined at nine district policy conferences in November. The process culminates on Dec. 14 when the ISA/ASA/USB directors and delegates from each district convene to vote on recommendations.

To learn more, click here.

District Policy Conferences Scheduled

The following ISA district policy conferences have been scheduled to provide an opportunity for members to discuss their legislative concerns and prioritize issues:

Nov. 18 - Dist. 8, American State Bank, Osceola, 5:15 p.m.

Nov. 19 - Dist. 4, Swan Lake Education Center, Carroll, 11:30 a.m.

Nov. 22 - Dist. 9, Best Western, Fairfield, 6:00 p.m.

Nov. 23 - Dist. 7, Red Coach Inn, Red Oak, 11:30 a.m.

Nov. 23 - Dist. 3, Upper Iowa University, Fayette, 5:00 p.m.

Nov. 29 - Dist. 1, Hap Ketelsen Community Center, Everly, 5:15 p.m.

Nov. 30 - Dist. 6, The Kirkwood Center, Cedar Rapids, 6:00 p.m.

For more information about ISA’s policy process, contact ISA Director of Policy Development and Producer Services Carol Balvanz at 800-383-1423.

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