American Soybean Association Continues to Work on Many Fronts

2011 set the stage for soybean growers in 2012. ASA Chairman Alan Kemper, a soybean producer from Lafayette, Indiana, says 2011’s record U.S. soybean production and export values and record biodiesel production were clear indicators of the benefit of ASA’s long-term efforts to increase both domestic and international market demand. Kemper notes – while we are proud of our work, this is a shared record of accomplishment that was made possible by the work of ASA, our state affiliates, the soybean checkoff at both the national and state levels, and our industry partners.

ASA President Steve Wellman, a soybean producer from Syracuse, Nebraska, pledges – ASA will continue its close involvement in the development of the new Farm Bill; defend biodiesel’s renewable fuel standard and work to extend the biodiesel tax incentive; fight regulatory overreach; and increase market access for U.S. soybeans.

As the Farm Bill process moves forward, ASA will continue to develop a revenue program that complements crop insurance. Other highlights of 2011 include passage of free trade agreements with South Korea, Colombia and Panama, maintaining access for U.S. soybean exports to the European Union; and protection of GPS signals and equipment important to farmers