January 2026
January 6, 2026
Click the brackets in the bottom right corner to view the
magazine in full screen or click one of the story titles below.
In this issue...
On the Cover
The Des Moines River winds its way through Boone County, near Madrid, Iowa. In this issues, find tips from the experts on navigating risks in 2026, discover how one educator is working to address mental health in agriculture and met the nematologist committed to beating soybean cyst nematode. Photo by Joclyn Kuboushek.
History is the best teacher
Reflecting on the past year and history adds context and perspective to our present-day life and future experiences.
Page 4
Rural Route 2: A year of connection
New year and new goals. During 2026, we're focusing on building connections within Iowa Soybean Association and across the soybean industry.
Page 7
Teaching the tough stuff
At Iowa State University’s Ag 450 Farm, lead instructor and sixth-generation farmer Skyler Rinker is teaching more than crop management and livestock care. He’s helping students learn how to navigate the mental and emotional challenges that come with life in agriculture.
Page 8
Grubbs is committed to sharing the story of Iowa soy
Perry farmer Brock Grubbs earns ISA’s New Leader Award for his dedication to promoting Iowa soy locally and globally.
Page 14
The power of one voice advocating for ag
For more than 20 years, Morey Hill has spoken up for Iowa soybean farmers, shaping ag policy for Iowa and the nation.
Page 16
Managing corn rootworm pressure
Agronomists recommend an integrated approach of crop rotation, genetics and insecticides to manage corn rootworm.
Page 18
Decades of dedication to defeating SCN
Dr. Greg Tylka helps farmers fight the soybean cyst nematode (SCN) by conducting research at Iowa State University.
Page 20
Business acumen important as farmers manage risks in 2026
Understanding your working capital position helps farmers manage risk during periods of tight margins and down markets.
Page 24
Advocacy Update: Shaping up policy priorities in 2026
ISA to address property taxes and rights, food ingredient bans and crop protection tool labelling during 2026 session.
Page 27
Roach Ag joins Iowa Soybean Association as Partners+ Program participant
Roach Ag offers a variety of grain marketing and consulting services to help producers maximize financial returns.
Page 28
Sharing insights from conference hall to shop floor
ISA winter events bring farmers together to share research, conservation updates and policy insights to strengthen ROI.
Page 30
Back