(Photo: Iowa Soybean Association / Joclyn Bushman)
Rural Route 2: 60 years in the making
December 11, 2024 | Bethany Baratta
The year was 1964. The Cleveland Browns were NFL champs, the Beatles visited the U.S. for the first time and Henry Ford II unveiled the Ford Mustang at the World’s Fair. G.I. Joe and Barbies were popular toys, and “My Fair Lady” hit the big screen. Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin resolution, authorizing major U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, Martin Luther King Jr. won the Nobel Peace Prize, and President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
And on Dec. 16, 1964, the Iowa Soybean Association was founded by farmers for farmers when the Articles of Incorporation and bylaws were officially adopted.
You might not see that last line in the depths of the History Channel website, but it’s a notable date.
The association’s historical documents recall that date in which several Iowa farmers came together with a common purpose to develop new products, create new markets and “make better profits for soybean producers in the state.” It came in a year that Iowa farmers harvested a record 121.2 million bushels of soybeans.
Since then, research and productivity efforts have boosted soybean production; a record 638 million bushels is forecast for the 2024 Iowa soybean crop. Directors have guided the organization’s staff and others to create and support new products like soy-based asphalt, biodiesel, chainsaw oil and others. Markets have opened and expanded across the world to include more U.S. soy.
The timeline of important events throughout this magazine helps tell the story of ISA’s 60 years.
The cover of this issue is a nod to our association’s history and the people throughout the years who have contributed to its success. In this issue, you’ll learn more about one of the longest-running soybean research projects. You’ll meet Brent Swart, who was recently elected to serve as the ISA president. You’ll read about the destinations forecast to have a home for your product in 2025.
As we put together this issue, I couldn’t help but to think about what these stories might say in 2039 when ISA celebrates 75 years. How will the next 15 years shape the industry? How will they shape your farm? What will soybean production look like in the state? In its 75th year, who will lead the association? I can’t wait to see how your story unfolds.
I wish you and your families a safe and blessed Christmas.
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