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McLain travels to South Dakota to enhance soybean knowledge
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Published: August 20, 2009
Phillip McLain, a soybean grower from Statesville, spent five days in eastern South Dakota on Aug. 11-15 learning about agriculture as part of the summer Regional Exchange and Awareness Program.
McLain participated with 10 other producers from southern states in this program, which highlights agriculture production and industry unique to the region and encourages growers to share information that enhances their knowledge and skills.
"This is a valuable opportunity for ASA members," said American Soybean Association President Johnny Dodson. "The program looks at farming unique to the area and gives soybean growers a chance to share ideas and build relationships."
Participants got a bit of history to begin the program with a tour of Falls Park, Sioux Falls' namesake, followed by a pontoon ride tour of Split Rock River. On Wednesday morning, the participants toured Hematech, Inc. to learn about their transgenic bovine research program and the SD Soybean Processors, the first farmer-owned soybean processing plant in the U.S. They toured Daktronics and the day wrapped up with a tour and picnic at Ron Gorder's farm. Thursday began at the Oaklane Hutterite Colony where they witnessed colony living and the diversified farming operation. This was followed by a visit to a Prehistoric Indian Village and the World's Only Corn Palace. Friday brought a tour of Monsanto Corn & Soybean Breeding Facility, POET Biorefining, The Center for Earth Resources Observation and Science, and the Strawbale Winery. In addition, the group visited the farm of SD director Dave Poppens and toured the Hefty Brothers' Ag PhD TV studio.
While showcasing the regional similarities and differences in agriculture, the tour encourages learning and relationship building between soybean growers and the ag industry. This benefits the member-driven policy work of ASA and the soybean industry as a whole, and enables members to see how checkoff activities are supporting state soybean issues.
The tour was sponsored by the American Soybean Association and the United Soybean Board and hosted by the South Dakota Soybean Association.
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