Rural Route 2: Sweet summertime

August 22, 2022 | Bethany Baratta

The school supply list is out, and Halloween decorations are making their way to store shelves. Before we know it, summer will come to an end. I’m trying to soak up these last few weeks of the season.

I recently took the day off work to bask in the sunshine with my son; he’ll start kindergarten soon. Breakfast picnics have become a favorite this summer, and this morning’s picnic at the park was glorious. We had a two hour play date, followed by a water gun fight at the library parking lot as part of the summer reading program. As we sat on our beach towel, the sun dried us off and melted our ice cream bars.

Turning the calendar to August means that the emerald fields of soybeans will soon turn a golden beige, and another harvest will be upon us. But August also means it’s Soybean Month in Iowa, a time set aside to recognize the vital role soybeans – and farmers – play in our state. As the stats show, soybeans and soybean-related industries in the state contribute nearly 7% to the state’s GDP. Last year, soybean farmers in Iowa produced nearly 622 million bushels, valued at more than $8 billion.

This month provides an opportunity to reflect on the various ways soy contributes to our everyday lives, from soy-based asphalt to biodiesel and soy foods to skincare.

At the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), we don’t limit the celebration to one month; we celebrate soy – and the farmers who grow it every day. And we connect farmers to the industry and each other through various programs and opportunities. If you market more than 250 bushels of soybeans annually, you are automatically connected with ISA. (But just because you receive the Iowa Soybean Review doesn’t mean you’re a member!) We’d like to get to know you – and we invite you to get to know us. So, give me a call at 515-334- 1020. I’d love to learn more about your farm and talk to you about opportunities to further your relationship with ISA. While we’re on the phone, we can double-check your membership status.

Enjoy this last full month of summer; I hope you get a day off from your job to soak up the sun. Happy Soybean Month!

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