Association News
These are the stories of the people representing Kansas farmers in Topeka and Washington, D.C. Read about your representatives, events, lobbying activities and other business of the Kansas Soybean Association.
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Farm Bill Takes Step Forward, Farmers Need Security
Two years and two extensions later, the 2018 Farm Bill is still not renewed and is set to expire on September 30, 2026. However, farmers are optimistic as the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 – also known as the 2026 Farm Bill – passed out of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture…
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Biofuels Policy Outcomes Mean Business
Soybean Farmers can expect to benefit from a secure domestic market this year. 2026 has been a year of extremes for biodiesel: plants shuttered by uncertainty have roared to life with recent policy actions. For the first time, the industry has a finalized Renewable Fuel Standard, a tax credit and reallocated small refinery exemptions in…
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Kansas Farmers Host Luncheon, Discuss Policy Priorities
Each year, farmer-leaders on the Kansas Soybean Association board host legislators and staff for a lunch at the Capitol in Topeka. Over 200 individuals came through the line and talked about water issues, biodiesel production incentives, label regulations and more with the four board members hailing from Doniphan, Jefferson, Labette and Osage County, respectively. “This…
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Farmers, Industry Celebrate Success in Salina
The Kansas Soybean Association and Kansas Soybean Commission hosted the second annual Kansas Soybean Celebration on January 30 in Salina. This event brought together farmers, industry partners and ag leaders for a night recognizing the people who keep Kansas soybean farming thriving. “This has become my favorite event of the year as I’m able to…
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Yield Contest is More Than Records and Prizes
Two repeat champions discuss what the competition means for their operation. After a whirlwind growing season, uncertainty loomed large for many Kansas soybean farmers in 2025. Weather challenges, rising input costs, and market volatility left questions about yields unanswered well into harvest. But when combines finally rolled through the fields, that uncertainty faded into perspective.…
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Kansas Farmers Directly Impact, Host International Markets
For 25 years, the American Soybean Association’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health has worked on behalf of U.S. soybean farmers to build demand in new and developing markets around the world. By pairing technical expertise with strategic partnerships, WISHH works in both food and feed sectors into long-term trade for U.S. soy. “The…
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Emerging Leaders Academy Class 9, Phase 2
Story by Jancey Hall, Director of Programs and Outreach Always in pursuit of elevating the voice of Kansas soybean farmers, the Kansas Soybean Association and Commission created an outreach and training program designed to immerse participants in all stages of the soybean industry. Class 9 of the Emerging Leaders Academy is in full swing, and…
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Kansas Legislature has Agriculture on the Agenda
Written by Shahira Stafford, legislative consultant. The 2026 Kansas Legislative Session began on January 12 with a packed agenda that could impact the state’s soybean producers and broader agricultural community. With a shortened session calendar, lawmakers are moving quickly on several key issues, holding hearings on major proposals as early as January 13. Property Tax…
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Elk County Farmer Leads at Local, State Level
Ben Bellar, fourth generation farmer in Elk county, participated in the American Soybean Association’s Soybean Leadership Academy January 7-9. This academy is designed to engage and build effective leaders for the future through hands-on learning and realistic leadership skills applicable to farmers. Academy Brings Value A two-and-a half day packed agenda provided attendees with networking…
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Policy is Personal; the Farmer Voice Matters.
Written by Teresa Brandenburg; KSA District 7 and ASA Rep. Farmers learn to live with a fair amount of uncertainty. We plant seeds in the soil and pray for enough rain and for prices that reflect the work and investment we put in. I’ve heard farmers joke that we don’t need casinos because every year…
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Emerging Leaders explore soybean industry logistics
In the ever-important pursuit of ensuring agriculture has a bright future, Kansas Soybean prioritizes the development of ready leaders. The eighth class of Kansas Soybean’s Emerging Leaders Academy embarked on a tour of various companies in the state January 14-16 to further hone understanding of soybeans after they leave the field. The experience marked Phase…
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Water Resources Development Act set for two years
Water conservation has been a consistent hot topic as many areas in Kansas have suffered record drought over the past few years. A sufficient supply of clean, usable water is a vital component to success in agriculture. While farmers cannot control Mother Nature, conservation of water can be managed. The Water Resources Development Act is…
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Ag committees put forth differing Farm Bills
The yearlong, deliberative process of the 2024 Farm Bill took a significant step forward when the House Agriculture Committee completed their markup of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024 and passed it out of committee on May 24, with support of all Republicans and four Democrats. The Senate Agriculture Committee completed their…
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USDA cuts budget, cancels three NASS surveys
After budget restraints, USDA funding was drastically cut by $24.2 million. Following internal reductions, like employee training and travel, it was still necessary to reduce programs by $8.05 million. According to Doug Bounds, Kansas State Statistician, the appropriation was received March 2024 – nearly halfway through USDA’s fiscal year – meaning opportunities for the necessary…