April 2025
April 1, 2025
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In this issue...
On the Cover
Walter Suza Ph.D., Iowa State University George Washington Carver Endowed Chair and adjunct associate professor of agronomy, is leading a research project focused on human and soybean plant health. Learn more about this checkoff-funded research on Page 10.
Adding soy protein to your plate
Soy Foods Month is the perfect time to tout the versatility and benefits of soy. It’s a remarkable plant-based protein that’s growing in popularity and importance.
Page 4
A lesson in the kitchen
April is recognized nationally as Soy Foods Month. It recognizes the miracle bean’s role in providing a nutrient-rich protein source. Soy’s versatility — as food for people and as feed for livestock — continues to shine.
Page 7
Unlocking soy's heart-healthy properties
Could incorporating soybeans into our diet eventually lower the risk heart disease or Alzheimer's? A new Iowa Soybean Research Center (ISRC) project is focusing on the potential of improving both human health and soybean plant health.
Page 10
Plant 2025
For farmers starting the 2025 growing season, 2024’s most important lessons are centered around fungicide application, early soybean planting, and comprehensive risk management.
Page 14
Iowa's Environmental Champion
For Dan Voss of rural Atkins, the accolades are nice, but for this veteran farmer, the true measure of a man is what happens in the fields. There’s no denying Voss’ efforts in conservation have taken root; the rest of the state has noticed.
Page 18
Watershed Planning: Empowering farmers, strengthening community
Watershed planning provides farmers the opportunity to assess their land and identify what financial and technical resources might be available to make a long-planned change.
Page 20
6 steps to planting success
New or old, planters need attention; don’t overlook these top six vital steps for the 2025 growing season.
Page 22
Soy for the world
From their farm fields across the state, to those in need, soybean producers in Iowa are cultivating positive connections around the globe.
Page 24
Serving up soy
For 25 years, The Soyfoods Council has changed hearts and minds with its promotion and testimony of the importance of soy foods in the diets of Americans and consumers across the world.
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Meet the director: Dave Struthers
Meet Dave Struthers, a District 5 director who farms near Collins.
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Unpacking the science of seed oils
Seed oils are some of North America’s most widely consumed edible oils, owing to their nutritional benefits, versatility, and availability.
Page 30
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