News from the American Soybean Association http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/news.htm http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Tue, 7 Feb 2012 16:09:53 -0600 Tue, 7 Feb 2012 16:09:24 -0600 FeedForAll v2.0 (2.0.2.9) http://www.feedforall.com As United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk moves to consider ways to improve the nation’s trade relationship with the European Union (EU) as part of the recently-formed U.S.-EU High Level Working Group on Jobs and Growth, the American Soybean Association (ASA) submitted formal comments reminding the ambassador that the EU’s heavy-handed policies on biotech soybeans, as well as inaccurate characterization of biodiesel by the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), have contributed to a 70 percent drop in total soybean export quantity and a 44 percent decrease in soybean export value to the EU over the last 14 years. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2012_releases/r020712b.htm BF71060C-8EAA-4BEF-80EC-BCF1C234CD00 Tue, 7 Feb 2012 16:09:24 -0600 Members of the American Soybean Association’s (ASA) Biotech Working Group met in Washington, D.C. last week to discuss, among other items, a new effort on the part of the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to streamline the approval process of new biotech traits. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2012_releases/r020712.htm F194D107-3468-4D94-A96A-B5901648996D Tue, 7 Feb 2012 10:12:09 -0600 As the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moves to mark up the American Energy & Infrastructure Jobs Act of 2012 (H.R. 7) released by Chairman John Mica (R-Fla.) this week, American Soybean Association President Steve Wellman underscored multiple high points within the bill’s initial language: http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2012_releases/s020212.htm 97C1A263-090D-41D6-BEB6-3862AB08D776 Thu, 2 Feb 2012 17:49:25 -0600 Now is a critical time for two ASA biodiesel policy priorities. We ask that you contact your Members of Congress (House Member and Senators) to: 1) urge their support for the retroactive reinstatement of the biodiesel tax credit; and 2) urge them to contact Administration officials (listed below) in support of the EPA’s proposed increase in Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2) volume requirements for biomass-based diesel for 2013. http://www.soygrowers.com/policy/aa020212.htm 2F51781E-2195-4BA4-AB86-6B6044CCBA44 Thu, 2 Feb 2012 17:48:50 -0600 The American Soybean Association’s (ASA) World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials joined Afghanistan’s Ambassador to the U.S. Eklil Ahmad Hakimi and a key Afghan business leader for a signing ceremony. Held at the Afghan Embassy in Washington, D.C., the Jan. 20 event marked the launch of a new agricultural trade association to promote oil crops for both food and feed in Afghanistan. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2012_releases/r012512.htm A2481AE1-C47D-4371-A74B-FFDB040163E0 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:11:27 -0600 The American Soybean Association’s (ASA) World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) program and the Pakistan Fisheries Development Board have started the "FEEDing Pakistan" program. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is supporting the three-year effort that will assist Pakistan in using U.S. soybean meal to make high-protein fish feeds. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2012_releases/r011012.htm 1BDDB9B4-B32B-4664-A56B-7C5120873167 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:49:22 -0600 American Soybean Association (ASA) farmer-leaders recently reviewed some of the key accomplishments from a year that saw ASA serve soybean farmers by protecting and increasing the market value and opportunities for U.S. soybeans. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r122911.htm 8926CDF2-3C9E-4E4D-8023-74528D8F487A Thu, 29 Dec 2011 10:40:26 -0600 American Soybean Association (ASA) CEO Steve Censky announced today that Patrick Delaney has joined ASA as Communications Director, effective Dec. 15. Delaney is based in Washington, D.C. within ASA’s Washington Policy Representative Office of Gordley Associates. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r121511.htm 1AD87197-6E85-4027-823C-EFD0FA6234BE Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:29:46 -0600 October 19, 2011…Saint Louis, Missouri…The American Soybean Association (ASA) today called on the Congressional Agriculture Committees to consider moving to a revenue-based farm program when they make further recommendations to the Joint Select Committee on Budget Reduction by Nov. 1. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r101911.htm 7A558256-8445-4D17-BD0D-74AAA04EDD8C Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:46:24 -0500 ASA is celebrating Congressional passage of the U.S. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with South Korea, Colombia and Panama that represent nearly $3 billion of additional agriculture exports to these trading partners. ASA applauds President Barack Obama and Congress for working together to reach a final vote and urges the Administration to ensure that these FTAs enter into force by Jan. 1, 2012. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/101311.htm E4EBB8CF-688C-490C-B4FF-D5C19CEA273B Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:22:12 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) and a coalition of 12 other national producer groups that represent American farmers and all major crop commodities are urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to conduct additional targeted testing to ensure that any potential commercial terrestrial services offered by LightSquared will not cause harmful interference to Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) operations utilized by farmers to facilitate the production of an abundant and dependable food supply. In the agricultural sector, GPS-based technologies are responsible for an estimated $19 billion in higher annual farm revenue, in addition to considerable safety and environmental benefits. Thus, much is at stake for precision agriculture and this is why comprehensive testing is so important. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r101211.htm 147890E4-BB1C-49B2-857A-2BD68FC9B207 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:46:37 -0500 The House and Senate are expected to vote on U.S. free trade agreements (FTAs) with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea on Wednesday, Oct. 12. We have been waiting for nearly five years for these FTAs to be submitted to Congress, and now the American Soybean Association (ASA) is urging Congress to swiftly pass the implementing legislation so the FTAs may enter into force as soon as possible. However, we need your active grassroots support. Please contact your Members of Congress as soon as possible before Wednesday’s vote and emphasize the need for passage of the pending U.S. trade agreements with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea. http://www.soygrowers.com/policy/aa101011.htm 3C8B1F61-DA26-4772-87D6-03C73B60F7D4 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 07:54:55 -0500 ASA applauds the Obama Administration for transmitting to Congress today implementing legislation for the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with South Korea, Colombia and Panama. ASA now calls on Congress to swiftly pass the FTAs so they may enter into force as soon as possible. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r100311.htm EBBA2F53-0D6F-4F09-9B9C-DFC53A3D56E6 Mon, 3 Oct 2011 15:50:14 -0500 ASA released its proposal for the 2012 Farm Bill, "Risk Management for America’s Farmers." "This proposal will help farmers manage the risks they face from adverse weather, crop disease, and volatile commodity markets," stated ASA President Alan Kemper, a soybean producer from Lafayette, Ind. "ASA believes the current farm program safety net can be made more effective, efficient, and defensible by reallocating baseline funding to this revenue-based program that improves risk management and complements crop insurance," Kemper added. Because the proposal would replace current farm programs, this proposal would also result in savings that help agriculture contribute its fair share to deficit reduction. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r092911.htm 84E6A844-A811-4F14-9D78-1D85AB86916A Thu, 29 Sep 2011 10:16:42 -0500 September 22, 2011…Saint Louis, Missouri…American Soybean Association (ASA) President Alan Kemper has confirmed the U.S. soybean grower leaders for ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) Program in 2011-2012. WISHH program Committee Members reelected David Iverson of South Dakota as chair, Andy Welden of Michigan as vice chair, Barb Overlie of Minnesota as secretary, and Pat Dumoulin of Illinois as treasurer. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r092211.htm 8686693C-8908-428F-9E4C-EE0D99D0A035 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:49:00 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is pleased to announce Ryan Speer of Jacob Farms in Sedgwick, Kan. (Midwest Region), Rodney Rulon of Rulon Enterprises in Arcadia, Ind. (Northeast Region) and E. Cullen Bryant of Bryant Farms in Dillon, S.C. (South Region) as the regional winners of the 2012 Conservation Legacy Awards. They will each be recognized on March 2, 2012, at the ASA Awards Banquet at Commodity Classic in Nashville, Tenn., when one of them will be chosen as the national winner. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r091511.htm BAA455CD-CA0D-4F29-9DFA-2C895D411B6B Thu, 15 Sep 2011 14:02:54 -0500 ASA and a group representing nearly all sectors of the U.S. agricultural called on President Barack Obama and Members of Congress to stand up for American exports and the jobs that depend on them by taking immediate action to implement the pending free trade agreements (FTAs) with South Korea, Colombia and Panama. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r072911.htm EB425EAD-E164-4490-96D8-369FBC556930 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:29:00 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is urging President Barack Obama and Congressional leaders to resolve the continuing impasse on raising the ceiling on the national debt. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r072011.htm 5ABB16DB-6357-4A7D-9DC1-ADAB73DC0656 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:28:23 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is pleased that the United State Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition & Forestry, chaired by Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), will hold a "Growing Jobs in Rural America" hearing on Thursday that will highlight the contributions biobased products are making to jobs and the U.S. economy. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r071311.htm 57172CB4-88DD-4FF5-A7FE-06EE4304A6E0 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:01:21 -0500 As Congress considers several transportation issues and measures, including appropriations bills and the potential Surface Transportation Reauthorization bill by the authorizing committees, ASA is urging support for its top transportation and infrastructure priorities. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r070711.htm ADD4E827-F238-4DDF-99F5-FD4EF0927774 Thu, 7 Jul 2011 11:13:40 -0500 ASA is very pleased that the Senate Finance Committee will hold a "mock" markup of the draft implementing bills for the South Korea, Colombia, and Panama Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) later this week. The ASA has been working for a number of years toward passage of these trade agreements because increased exports of U.S. soy and soy-fed meat and poultry will benefit soybean farmers and rural economies. Passage of these three trade agreements combined represents nearly $3 billion of additional agriculture exports to these trading partners. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r062811.htm 7767E605-F3A0-41BF-9D80-4885933070B4 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 16:10:32 -0500 ASA applauds the introduction of biodiesel tax credit extension bills in both the House and Senate. The bills call for a 3-year extension of the biodiesel tax credit through 2014. A multi-year extension, which ASA has strongly advocated, is necessary to provide stability and certainty to the still maturing biodiesel industry. The current biodiesel tax incentive expires on Dec. 31, 2011. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r062411.htm 1677EC1A-294C-4FFA-9A58-1A2697A6C5D2 Fri, 24 Jun 2011 10:20:34 -0500 ASA has joined with the National Grain and Feed Association, other producer groups, processors, and input suppliers, alerting the Congressional Appropriations Committees about the urgent need for additional resources to dredge and repair inland waterways that have been damaged by historic high water levels. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r62411.htm 8219BC60-BC73-46F9-8BBA-3EE6F5FE363B Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:54:50 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA), the United Soybean Board (USB), and the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) are sponsoring and organizing the 2011 International Ag Biotechnology & Food Security Conference June 21-22, at the Great Wall Sheraton Hotel in Beijing, China. The conference is produced on behalf of ASA, USB, and USSEC by Soyatech. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r061511.htm FB25DA74-2A34-49AA-9D82-9B6E20ECBCE6 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 09:10:37 -0500 This afternoon, the House will begin consideration of the FY 2012 Agriculture Appropriations bill (H.R. 2112) and the American Soybean Association (ASA) has been made aware of two very harmful amendments. The first, proposed by Rep. Paul Broun (R-GA), would eliminate funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). The second amendment, proposed by Rep. Rich Nugent (R-FL) would reduce FAS funding by an additional 10 percent (in addition to the $11 million cut included in H.R. 2112). The Broun amendment is the most draconian, but the Nugent amendment would seriously cripple the agency as well. http://www.soygrowers.com/policy/aa061411.htm 39A8DA01-1A8F-4371-AC68-99133362BD02 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 14:42:56 -0500 ASA President Alan Kemper, a soybean farmer from Lafayette, Ind., today welcomed Dr. Paolo De Castro, Chairman of the European Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Affairs, at a trade luncheon at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. ASA organized the lunch for De Castro that included an invited audience of U.S. food, agriculture, and agribusiness leaders. In his remarks, Kemper pointed out the responsibilities that the agriculture sectors in the United States and the European Union share in providing food, feed, fiber, and fuel to meet a growing world demand. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r061311.htm C2F7BCDC-06C9-4E93-ADA7-CD90FF4CC524 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 13:27:42 -0500 ASA witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Panama Canal Authority and the Soy Transportation Coalition (STC) to undertake joint initiatives for marketing, data interchange, and market studies regarding modernization and improvements to the Panama Canal. The MOU was signed by Alberto Aleman Zubieta, Administrator/Chief Executive Officer for the Panama Canal Authority and Ed Ulch, STC Chairman and soybean farmer from Solon, Iowa, at an event in Washington, D.C. Other attendees included the Panamanian Ambassador to the United States Mario Jaramillo, U.S. Ambassador and Chief Agriculture Negotiator Islam Siddiqui, congressional staff, soybean farmers and staff representing ASA, the United Soybean Board, and STC, and representatives of numerous agricultural organizations and companies. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r051011.htm F6B33E74-859B-45BA-9C3C-CA1CF756C345 Tue, 10 May 2011 10:15:58 -0500 The Conservation Legacy Awards program, sponsored by the American Soybean Association (ASA), BASF, Monsanto, the United Soybean Board and the Corn & Soybean Digest magazine, is looking for those soybean farmers who should be recognized for their outstanding environmental and conservation practices. It is open to all U.S. soybean farmers. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r042811.htm F033F566-15D3-4DB2-9470-86FFE7F97658 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 14:39:38 -0500 ASA expresses appreciation to U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk who today said his office has completed its preparatory work on the U.S-Panama Free Trade Agreement and stands ready to begin technical discussions with members of Congress on the draft implementing bill and draft statement of administrative action. ASA urges that Congress and the Administration support and pass this agreement now and take full advantage of the opportunity it provides for America’s economic growth. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r041811.htm D3D72F85-7420-4FD3-8414-965EF47ED4EC Mon, 18 Apr 2011 16:02:36 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) expresses appreciation to President Barack Obama and his team of negotiators who successfully completed an Action Plan to resolve the issues that have held up the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The trade agreement will create new opportunities for American farmers and ranchers in the Colombian market. U.S. soybean farmers will also have the opportunity to regain some of the market share previously lost to competitors in South America. ASA leaders now call for the Administration to work closely with the Colombian government to ensure swift submission and Congressional approval of the implementing legislation for the Agreement. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r040611.htm B226AC86-5240-4D69-8970-31C8AC666FC0 Wed, 6 Apr 2011 14:06:12 -0500 ASA has reached out to the Chairman and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees urging them to adopt a comprehensive plan for reducing deficits, and has raised concerns about disproportionate and devastating cuts to key agriculture-related programs and operating budgets for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agencies in HR 1, a new Continuing Resolution for FY-2011. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r031011.htm DBC93826-1163-4043-AC6E-D684FC5D364C Thu, 10 Mar 2011 15:41:22 -0600 ASA, joined by other U.S. oilseed producer and industry organizations, has expressed serious concerns to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Ron Kirk about the requirements of the European Union’s (EU) Renewable Energy Directive (RED), and with the impact the RED is having on access for U.S. agricultural products to EU markets. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r030911.htm 5D47334A-2B01-42B8-9AEF-3FEE54C4B0F5 Wed, 9 Mar 2011 16:27:30 -0600 In advance of a Senate Finance Committee hearing on Wednesday, March 9, with United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Ron Kirk, the American Soybean Association (ASA), along with other representatives of the U.S. food and agriculture industry, reiterated support for swift passage of the pending U.S. trade agreements with Korea, Colombia and Panama. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r030811.htm E3F784B3-6374-4C81-8029-77F8B4F29E2A Tue, 8 Mar 2011 14:52:07 -0600 Soybean producers from all U.S. soybean growing regions gathered in Tampa, Fla., last week to review and revise the policy direction of the American Soybean Association (ASA). One hundred thirty two producers from ASA’s 26 state affiliates served as Voting Delegates in this annual process that guides the ASA as it pursues future initiatives to improve U.S. soybean farmer profitability. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r030711.htm 5F1C2DF0-CBC5-45F8-9FB2-8C283A4416C3 Mon, 7 Mar 2011 13:17:08 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today expressed its concern with the disproportionate cuts in agriculture spending in H.R. 1, the Continuing Resolution (CR) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2011. On Feb. 15, ASA, joined by 31 other agriculture organizations, sent a letter to House Appropriations Committee Chairman Harold Rogers (R-KY) and Ranking Member Norman Dicks (D-WA) expressing concern that H.R. 1 cuts to agriculture are more than double the amount proposed to be cut in overall non-defense discretionary spending. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r021611.htm 38BA2C28-26C2-4B6B-A864-DCD3EF571B58 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 10:02:48 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) supports today’s decision by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to deregulate biotechnology-derived, glyphosate-tolerant alfalfa, effective immediately and without conditions. The decision reinforces that USDA’s policy-making activities adhere to a science-based regulatory process, and is consistent with the reviews that led USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to conclude that biotech alfalfa does not pose a plant pest risk. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/s012711.htm B3931264-EADA-4CC9-960E-26846118B7B5 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 18:00:14 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) appreciated President Barack Obama’s remarks on several of ASA’s top legislative priorities during his 2011 State of the Union address. President Obama encouraged job creation by doubling exports, passing the pending Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), expanding the use of renewable energy, and improving America’s infrastructure. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r012611.htm 68F16739-5553-4D13-A11C-DCE0DAF28E0D Wed, 26 Jan 2011 16:04:26 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) applauds the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement on the voluntary biobased product labeling program. The purpose of the labeling initiative is to more clearly identify biobased products for all buyers, and to promote the increased sale and use of biobased products in the commercial market and for consumers. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2011_releases/r011911.htm CDB9D8FC-51A0-4C00-8DE6-0CF53962203E Wed, 19 Jan 2011 14:36:38 -0600 The American Soybean Association’s (ASA) World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) representatives participated today in the final preparations of a shipment of soy flour to Afghanistan. The 3,525 50-pound bags of soy flour shipped from the Port of Virginia will deliver the benefits of high-protein soy to 5,000 women and their families in Afghanistan. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r122010.htm E40BE19F-9472-4E7D-8566-D5CA898EC7C6 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 11:48:09 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is celebrating the final passage of legislation that includes a retroactive extension of the biodiesel tax incentive and ASA-supported estate tax provisions. The House passed H.R. 4853 by a vote of 277-148. The bill will now be sent to President Barack Obama, who is expected to sign the legislation as early as this afternoon. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r121710.htm AF8A5ABE-B8BE-4599-95BB-50B36D382544 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 10:17:32 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) applauds Senate passage of the "Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010," and urges prompt House passage of the legislation. The Senate bill makes the biodiesel tax incentive retroactive for 2010, and extends it through 2011. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r121510.htm FBA3DBD6-19E8-42C1-A016-9947E661B545 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:57:18 -0600 The Board of Directors of the American Soybean Association (ASA) has confirmed Alan Kemper from Lafayette, Indiana, as President and Rob Joslin from Sidney, Ohio, as Chairman. Board members also elected Steve Wellman from Syracuse, Nebraska, to serve as First Vice President, an office that places Wellman in line to be ASA President in 2012. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r121010.htm 1965A7D8-DD4B-4DFC-8CD7-D9C635706D00 Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:01:41 -0600 Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Olympia Snowe (R-ME) this week called for a vote on House-passed currency bill H.R. 2378, the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act, to be brought to the Senate floor. The American Soybean Association (ASA) is asking you to contact your Senators and urge them to vote NO on H.R. 2378, legislation that seeks to increase tariffs on imports from China. http://www.soygrowers.com/policy/aa120110.htm 4DC44C21-6A9E-4AA7-8C91-5F0A5AF3309A Wed, 1 Dec 2010 10:09:35 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today participated in a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., calling on Congress to enact estate tax legislation before Dec. 31, 2010. Estate tax legislation enacted in 2001 increased the exclusion amount from $675,000 to $3.5 million and reduced the tax rate on estates exceeding the exclusion from 55 percent to 45 percent in 2009. The bill repealed the tax entirely for 2010, but it will be reinstated in 2011 with an exclusion amount of $1 million and a top rate of 55 percent. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r113010b.htm BED6E412-A070-48F0-9EEB-803AF7F8E24A Tue, 30 Nov 2010 13:07:13 -0600 In an effort to convey the urgent need for Congress to extend the biodiesel tax incentive, American Soybean Association (ASA) farmer-leaders are participating in a biodiesel fly-in to meet with Members of Congress in Washington, D.C. today. The 111th Congress is rapidly drawing to a close and the decision whether or not to extend expired tax provisions in the lame duck session will be made in the coming weeks. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r113010a.htm 1283445A-BC53-4561-B52F-4040EC7D8EC4 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 09:43:20 -0600 American Soybean Association (ASA) farmer-leaders will be in Washington, D.C. this week to participate in two events involving legislation crucial to U.S. soybean farmers, and we’d like you to weigh-in with your elected representatives on these issues as well. http://www.soygrowers.com/policy/aa112910.htm 9813E220-D657-4755-9A85-B2770C7D0093 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 09:54:39 -0600 Representatives from the American Soybean Association (ASA), American Soybean Association International Marketing (ASA-IM), United Soybean Board (USB), U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), and the University of Minnesota are meeting with soy customers in China and South Korea this week to present the findings of the 2010 U.S. Soybean Crop Quality report. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r111810.htm 2524AEAE-BF95-448E-BD4D-7EC32C852F60 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 10:12:36 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) appreciates comments made today by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack on the importance of continuing to develop and expand our domestic renewable biofuels industry, including support for the extension of the biodiesel tax credit and implementation of the Section 9005 Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r102110.htm 958DBF64-6282-4910-A786-D667B11AC0EF Thu, 21 Oct 2010 12:12:54 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today announced that it is withdrawing from the Leonardo Academy’s initiative to develop a sustainable agriculture standard for American National Standards Institute. While ASA supports the goal of a sustainable agriculture standard, it has become clear that that the Leonardo Academy process is biased against a balanced and open analysis of modern agriculture. Fifty-four other commodity and farm organizations representing U.S. production agriculture interests joined ASA in withdrawing from the Leonardo Academy’s process. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r101910.htm 85E9F6CD-8AEA-4716-98FB-6CCCA992AB95 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 11:29:51 -0500 The Foreign Affairs Committee of the U.S. House of Representatives has scheduled a markup of HR 4645, the "Travel Restriction Reform and Export Enhancement Act," on Wednesday, Sept. 29. The legislation would remove current restrictions on Americans traveling to Cuba, and would ease existing requires for financial transactions, including sales of soybeans and soybean products. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/aa092310.htm E1506483-F7E7-4EC7-88E5-52B1C18A6FA3 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 14:29:59 -0500 ASA today expressed extreme disappointment and frustration with the United States Senate for its inability to extend the Biodiesel Tax Incentive that expired on December 31, 2009. The Senate voted 41-58 against a motion to suspend the rules and accept an amendment offered by Senator Charles Grassley (R-IA) to enact a retroactive extension of the biodiesel tax credit. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) announced Wednesday night that the U.S. Senate would consider a motion to suspend the rules on the amendment to the Small Business Bill filed by Senator Grassley to retroactively extend the biodiesel tax incentive through 2010. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r091610.htm 0DD9DC76-7218-4A02-9C06-1A711854E666 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 11:53:16 -0500 ASA urges all members to contact their U.S. Senators immediately and ask that they support the Grassley biodiesel amendment.  This amendment is scheduled for a vote at 10:45 am EST TODAY. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/aa091610.htm F7F43FD2-F8C5-4129-8869-835B29F850E9 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 08:49:19 -0500 ASA today expressed appreciation after the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that it will provide assistance to producers of soybeans and other crops who suffered losses due to high moisture conditions in 2009. "ASA strongly supported efforts by Senators Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) and Thad Cochran (R-MS) to compensate soybean farmers for severe quality and yield losses after the mid-South received record rainfall last August," stated ASA President Rob Joslin, a soybean producer from Sidney, Ohio. "This assistance will provide much-needed relief to farmers who will not benefit under the national disaster relief program (SURE)." http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r091510.htm C13F9AE1-479C-42E5-AFAD-861987C49218 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 16:44:58 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) has confirmed five new members and extended the appointments of nine other soybean growers to lead ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) Program. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r082410.htm 4D2D7D12-681E-40F0-9C83-F0A8D7B5A148 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 16:35:50 -0500 The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that in response to comments received, it was making changes in the Advanced Biofuel Payment Program that will make biofuels produced in facilities located in non-rural areas, as well as those that are foreign-owned, eligible for program payments. The American Soybean Association (ASA) has been pressing for these modifications, as the requirements unfairly excluded valuable biodiesel production facilities that utilize domestic soy feedstocks and benefit American farmers and their communities. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r081210.htm 7EA75DB7-5173-4153-BD53-3D00645F43D5 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:36:15 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) testified today before the United States Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry to present ASA’s views on international trade issues, including the need for Congress to approve pending Free Trade Agreements, extend Presidential Trade Promotion Authority, and normalize financial relations with Cuba. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r080410.htm 6FA9DAC6-0D77-428C-9FF7-6B14224A0951 Wed, 4 Aug 2010 11:44:54 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) this week suggested key steps to meeting President Barack Obama’s National Export Initiative (NEI) goal of doubling exports in the next five years in comments to the U.S. Department of Commerce. The comments came in response to a request from the Obama Administration published in the June 30, 2010, Federal Register. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r072910.htm 0CE30BD7-C196-4C2B-81C4-EFA923F044E6 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:54:34 -0500 The Conservation Legacy Awards program, sponsored by the American Soybean Association (ASA), Monsanto and the Corn & Soybean Digest magazine, is looking for those U.S. soybean farmers who should be recognized for their outstanding environmental and conservation practices. It is open to all soybean farmers. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r072610.htm 897D39D3-124C-4CAD-95D3-5F0CEDEA7DA2 Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:17:34 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is welcoming the Obama Administration’s commitment to remove remaining obstacles and secure Congressional approval of the United States-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA). "The free trade agreement with South Korea would provide landmark opportunities for U.S. soy, meat, and poultry exports," said ASA President Rob Joslin, a soybean producer from Sidney, Ohio. "The agreement is very positive because it will further open South Korea’s market to U.S. exports of soybeans and soy products." http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r062810.htm 8B3FACD0-1729-4F1D-88E4-23E0CA59E488 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 15:50:00 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) testified today before the House Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Committee on Agriculture. In the current budget environment, with farm programs a target for interests that either oppose them in principle or want to fund other priorities, ASA is looking for ways to make farm programs more efficient, effective, and defensible. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r062410.htm 6F39851F-E7BD-4490-9CD8-2B9003490F10 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 10:17:26 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) testified today on the importance of the China export market to U.S. soybean growers at a hearing of the U.S. International Trade Commission. Last year, the value of U.S. soybean exports to China reached a record $9.2 billion. U.S. soybeans represent more than half of the total value of U.S. agricultural exports to China. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r062210.htm BE4DE01D-668B-462B-B719-4D7B7C64B6D1 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 09:51:28 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) expresses appreciation to the U.S. House of Representatives for passage today of H.R. 4213, by a 215-204 margin. ASA supports the provisions in H.R. 4213 that extend the biodiesel tax incentive through December 31, 2010, retroactive to January 1, 2010. The cost of the biodiesel tax credit extension is fully offset in the bill. Extension of the biodiesel tax credit is a top priority for ASA. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r052810.htm 407CB54F-BE8C-4209-AD00-1C889C6F36DB Fri, 28 May 2010 14:29:04 -0500 The U.S. House of Representatives is scheduled to consider H.R. 4213, the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loophole Act, on Friday, May 21, 2010. Among other things, the legislation provides a one year retroactive extension of the biodiesel tax incentive. Pease contact your Congressman and ask them to vote in favor of H.R. 4213. http://www.soygrowers.com/policy/aa052010.htm C78FE99A-BBC7-4EC1-B7F7-B1DF103D4B69 Thu, 20 May 2010 14:28:27 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) provided comments today to the National Research Council (NRC) Committee on Economic and Environmental Impacts of Increasing Biofuels Production. ASA told the Committee that biodiesel made from soybean oil can play a vital role in fulfilling the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) without any adverse impacts to the food or feed markets. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r050310.htm AFBF31DF-B4B9-44D6-B21E-D4B04A0F008E Mon, 3 May 2010 10:46:18 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) says President Barack Obama’s visit today to POET Biorefining in Macon, Mo., highlights the role the biofuels industry can play in the creation of green jobs and drive economic development while benefiting the environment. The visit also underscores the urgent need for Congress to quickly pass a retroactive extension of the biodiesel tax incentive. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r042810.htm 9BE54AA6-516B-4E17-AA5A-8DB60067A666 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 16:15:25 -0500 The biodiesel tax incentive expired on December 31, 2009. Since then, biodiesel production and consumption has dramatically declined, biodiesel production facilities have closed, thousands of biodiesel industry workers have lost their jobs, and surplus soybean oil stocks continue to increase as a result of lower demand. All soybean farmers are urged to participate in ASA’s C.A.B. Campaign: Call About Biodiesel. Call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard today at (202) 224-3121 and ask to speak with your Senators’ and Representative’s offices. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/aa042610.htm FE425A71-CB9F-4CE8-9598-7C56A5B10BDF Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:47:52 -0500 As we celebrate Earth Day, the American Soybean Association (ASA) today salutes the contributions U.S. soybean farmers are making to improve the environment while sustainably producing food, feed, and fuel. "The world depends heavily on adequate supplies of food and energy, both of which are being produced sustainably from soybeans grown in the United States," said ASA President Rob Joslin, a soybean farmer from Sidney, Ohio. "ASA has tracked the steady growth of this legume crop since 1920, and has worked for many years to help farmers grow soybeans using production methods that enhance stewardship of land and water resources." http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r042210.htm 5CE0FC81-6D69-452B-8D29-618EA9F7CE9B Thu, 22 Apr 2010 12:09:43 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) submitted comments representing the interests of U.S. soybean farmers at today’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) workshop on stakeholder priorities in the area of Plant and Pest Biology. ASA’s research, education and extension priorities were presented to NIFA administrators and other stakeholders during the workshop in Washington, D.C. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r041310B.htm 1E77DC9D-92FF-441D-BD7D-8BDE5F26D409 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 16:15:09 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is already gearing up for the 2012 Farm Bill by establishing a 2012 Farm Bill Working Group to develop policies key to the future of all U.S. soybean growers. ASA producer-leaders recently met with House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson (D-MN) to discuss his plans to hold preliminary hearings on the 2012 Farm Bill in Washington beginning in April. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r041310.htm 53CC92D1-62DD-4B54-A22D-0B2A2BE00C76 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 09:32:37 -0500 The nation’s soybean producers, through the American Soybean Association (ASA), served an array of soy-based foods to about 200 members of Congress, government officials and industry representatives at the Eighth Annual Congressional Soyfoods Lunch that was held on Wednesday, March 17, on Capitol Hill. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r033010.htm 6252F177-F905-4496-BEFA-7C5FA8F3AC6B Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:29:56 -0500 Farmer leaders of the American Soybean Association (ASA), the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG), the National Sorghum Producers (NSP), USA Rice Federation, and National Cotton Council met with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Jackson and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack at EPA’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., to discuss recent court and EPA actions that cause ASA and soybean farmers concern. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r032510.htm 76314AC6-E002-4D91-86A7-CCB5482191D7 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:13:12 -0500 As part of National Agriculture Week, farmer leaders of the American Soybean Association and the National Corn Growers Association visited with elected officials in Washington, D.C. to promote current issues in Congress that are important to their industry. Specifically, the groups discussed agricultural trade with Cuba, funding for infrastructure improvements on the Upper Mississippi River system and the advancement of biofuels. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r031810.htm 0B298755-F85A-43DA-A9DD-3717123E6D76 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:03:05 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) participated in a panel discussion today on the competitive dynamics of the seed industry during a public workshop exploring competitive issues in agriculture hosted by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The panel explored the competitive implications for farmers of significant shifts in the seed industry during the past 20 years in terms of seed price, choice, patents and licensing, and innovation at a workshop held at the Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny, Iowa. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r031210.htm 91998197-115C-4839-8500-D8C995CF8F27 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 14:20:46 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) testified today before the House Committee on Agriculture on normalizing trade and travel between the U.S. and Cuba. ASA strongly supports HR 4645, the Travel Restriction Reform and Export Enhancement Act, which would eliminate financing and travel restrictions affecting trade with Cuba, and is consistent with the Administration’s goal to double exports in the next five years. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r031110.htm F0DBA2B2-E583-4154-9E23-4305D91346E5 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:55:49 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today applauds Senate passage of H.R. 4213, the American Workers, State and Business Relief Act, which includes retroactive extension of the vital biodiesel tax credit. With passage of H.R. 4213, the U.S. House and U.S. Senate must now reconcile the differences between the two versions of the bill approved by the respective chambers. H.R. 4213, as approved by the U.S. House in December 2009, also provides for a one year retroactive extension of the biodiesel tax incentive. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r031010.htm 5A56A7D2-78DC-4328-8D6F-EBAF936BA093 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:08:07 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is urging the U.S. Senate to pass H.R. 4213, the American Workers, State and Business Relief Act, which includes retroactive extension of the vital biodiesel tax credit. The biodiesel tax credit expired on December 31, 2009 and its retroactive extension is urgently needed to save the 23,000 jobs that the industry supports. Following the successful cloture vote today, the Senate should move to quickly pass the bill and seek agreement with the House on a final bill that can be passed and signed into law as soon as possible. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r030910.htm 0EB175A7-8B1E-4527-A8BA-577CDA93AE01 Tue, 9 Mar 2010 14:57:09 -0600 Soybean producers gathered in Anaheim, Calif., last week to review and revise the policy direction of the American Soybean Association (ASA). One hundred thirty three producers from ASA’s 25 state affiliates served as Voting Delegates in this annual process that guides the ASA as it pursues future initiatives to improve U.S. soybean farmer profitability. What follows are the most significant additions and modifications covering a variety of important soybean issues. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r030810.htm C8F3D910-A614-47CD-BA79-0E2E6DEA3122 Mon, 8 Mar 2010 13:48:21 -0600 The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that the American Soybean Association’s (ASA) World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) program and three partnering organizations will receive a cooperative agreement for work in Afghanistan. The USDA Food for Progress program brings the strengths of soy protein to fight some of the highest rates of malnutrition in the world, as well as help rebuild Afghanistan’s food industry. The estimated value of the project is $26 million. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r030210.htm 8B23E23B-BDA9-4E01-988F-60D5805D7F48 Mon, 8 Mar 2010 13:47:22 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) expresses appreciation to House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson (D-MN) who introduced legislation yesterday to expand U.S. agriculture exports to Cuba. ASA has been a supporter of eliminating the Cuban sanctions. In 2008, there were more than $134 million worth of soy products exported to Cuba. If current policies that require third country banks, cash advance payments and limits on travel were lifted, these exports would be expected to increase. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r022410.htm 5E05CB91-5949-4598-A0FA-B0A717A393A1 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:20:20 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) expresses appreciation to the United Soybean Board (USB) directors who voted to retain the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) as USB’s prime contractor for International Marketing. The vote took place on Wednesday, Feb. 17, at USB’s Board Meeting in Birmingham, Ala. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r021810.htm AF7CCD89-655D-4F12-ADD1-BB5DE93DE5B0 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 09:30:31 -0600 ASA is calling for the Senate to reinsert a retroactive extension of the biodiesel tax incentive in the first Jobs Bill it passes to save the jobs of 23,000 people working in the biodiesel industry. Production of biodiesel, a homegrown renewable fuel, also supports higher prices paid to farmers for their soybeans, which contributes additional employment opportunities in both urban and rural communities. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r021710.htm 52641950-F40A-4795-8BFE-523C538B97D7 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:32:54 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today applauds release of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Final Rule for the Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2) that provides a positive outcome for biodiesel and soy biodiesel. ASA has worked hard to educate EPA and policymakers to correct flaws in the original RFS2 Proposed Rule issued in 2009. Achieving a favorable outcome was vitally important as demand for domestically produced soybean oil and the future of the biodiesel industry in the United States hinged on the outcome. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/R020310.htm DE42959D-0A7F-46D4-AACA-EA381EDD12DA Wed, 3 Feb 2010 15:39:33 -0600 The Biodiesel Tax Incentive expired on December 31, 2009. ASA is asking Members & Supporters to contact their Senators and Representative to urge them to cosponsor and act swiftly to retroactively extend the Biodiesel Tax Incentive. A study last year found that soy biodiesel production supports higher soybean prices paid to farmers by over 25 cents per bushel. On a 3.3 billion bushel U.S. crop, that’s a potential loss of $825 million in farm income. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/AA020310.htm 8EFA492C-F4E6-407A-AA0B-B700A761DE6B Wed, 3 Feb 2010 15:36:45 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today expressed disappointment in the Obama Administration’s proposals to cut funding for key farm programs, federal crop insurance, and the Market Access Program (MAP). http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2010_releases/r020110.htm 896D2782-196F-4B2F-86D6-C235C5B8696A Mon, 1 Feb 2010 16:50:16 -0600 The World Soy Foundation (WSF) announced today the selection of Nathan Ruby as Executive Director to lead the charitable organization effective January 4, 2010. Ruby brings more than 10 years of non-profit experience to WSF’s humanitarian efforts that provide much-needed soy protein to people in developing countries around the world. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r122209.htm 93015CD6-7819-4ADA-AD0F-B1C5FD5F78F4 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 13:52:19 -0600 As part of an ongoing outreach program of the American Soybean Association (ASA) Biotech Working Group, ASA Board member James Andrew, a soybean producer from Jefferson, Iowa, and ASA Consultant Benno van der Laan visited Brussels, Belgium December 7-9, for meetings with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and with officials from the main political groups. Informing MEPs on the safety and environmental benefits of biotech-enhanced crops is critical to maintaining U.S. soybean exports to the European Union valued at $1.6 billion annually. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/r121509.htm 884E0719-1B5D-48E8-8D8D-10151785D443 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:32:15 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) announces the following committee members for 2010, as assigned by ASA President Rob Joslin, a soybean producer from Sidney, Ohio. Committee assignments were made following ASA’s winter Board of Director’s meeting in Saint Louis. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r121409.htm 7658BED0-5425-46B6-BFBB-ADC557527DFF Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:39:26 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) expresses appreciation to the U.S. House of Representatives for passage of H.R. 4213, the Tax Extenders Act of 2009, by a 241 to 181 margin in a vote taken today. ASA fully supports the provisions in H.R. 4213 that extend the biodiesel tax incentive through December 31, 2010. Extension of the biodiesel tax incentive is a top priority for ASA. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r120909.htm FA3C03B1-1D64-465E-9A38-CF450808A362 Wed, 9 Dec 2009 15:26:03 -0600 In response to the EPA’s endangerment finding on greenhouse gas emissions, the American Soybean Association (ASA) expresses serious concerns with any potential future effort by EPA to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act that might follow this endangerment finding. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/flash/flash120909.htm 45AFF78D-48D7-431F-9683-50AAA3F5D947 Wed, 9 Dec 2009 15:25:14 -0600 The Board of Directors of the American Soybean Association (ASA) has confirmed Rob Joslin from Sidney, Ohio as President, and Johnny Dodson from Halls, Tennessee as Chairman. Board members also elected Alan Kemper from Lafayette, Indiana, to serve as First Vice President, an office that places Kemper in line to be ASA President next year. Also elected were Ron Kindred from Atlanta, Illinois, as Secretary, and Joe Steiner from Mason, Ohio, as Treasurer. Four Vice Presidents also were elected: Randy Mann from Auburn, Kentucky; Ray Gaesser from Corning, Iowa; Steve Wellman from Syracuse, Nebraska; and Danny Murphy from Canton, Mississippi. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/r120409.htm 87FEBFEA-FDA6-4BBD-AC74-EADE37C60D31 Fri, 4 Dec 2009 11:40:23 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is urging Congress to provide funding to deliver much-needed financial assistance to farmers and rural communities to assist them in recovering from devastating losses caused by hurricanes, excessive rain during harvest and other natural disasters across the country, including catastrophic weather-related losses in the mid-South and neighboring states. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r112309.htm 9433F745-1EEE-432D-9EFD-B4253A52D064 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:01:11 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today unveiled its new online Advocacy Training Center that teaches basic skills and protocols for advocating farmer-friendly policy to elected officials. It is also designed to encourage more farmers to get actively involved in the political process by showing how easy it can be to participate and be successful in grassroots advocacy. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r111809.htm C089C821-F42E-4BA0-96BD-7107C947EFB4 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:22:47 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today communicated to United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ron Kirk its priorities for restarting World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations on the Doha Development Agenda on a foundation that offers an improved opportunity for a successful outcome for U.S. farmers. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r111009.htm 527FF371-8862-4EE2-B7BE-8BD99E1DB6ED Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:31:30 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today issued a paper outlining its concerns and issues for climate change legislation. ASA believes that climate change legislation passed by the House of Representatives and the current draft Senate climate change bill do not provide sufficient measures to protect American economic competitiveness, and ASA does not support those measures in their current form. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r110409.htm 5719EDE5-CE89-4D50-9BF1-7248DF27B333 Wed, 4 Nov 2009 12:14:09 -0600 Soybean farming has changed dramatically since 1920. But even then, decisions made on Capitol Hill were having a direct effect on the production and profitability of soybean farmers. That’s why the American Soybean Association (ASA) was established 90 years ago and continues to be the advocate and grassroots voice of the nation’s soybean farmers when important policy is being discussed and created. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r102709.htm FB6036BD-A532-46EE-8ECD-6CAF8ADA2524 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:08:12 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today congratulated the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for its efforts to elevate the stature and credibility of agricultural research with the establishment of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). NIFA was established in the 2008 Farm Bill and officially launched in Washington, D.C. today. The mission of NIFA is to stimulate and fund the research and technological innovations that will enhance and make American agriculture more productive and environmentally sustainable while ensuring the economic viability of agriculture and production. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r100809.htm E2A33089-D36E-46B8-9156-C01921354FE6 Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:23:59 -0500 Joseph H. Layton, Jr., a soybean, corn and grape producer on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, emphasized the priority need for increased federal funding for food and agricultural research, extension and education at an oversight hearing convened today by the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit and Research regarding implementation of the 2008 Farm Bill Research Title. Layton testified as a producer and on behalf of the American Soybean Association (ASA) and the National Coalition for Food and Agricultural Research (National C-FAR), and the USDA National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education and Economics (NAREEE) Advisory Board. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r093009.htm 9FE6EEEB-5172-4E23-A494-5A672D9C52D9 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:27:18 -0500 American Soybean Association (ASA) Vice President Alan Kemper hosted on his farm this week a delegation of Chinese soybean buyers whose companies represent 85 percent of all Chinese soybean purchases. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r091609.htm C2E06B93-EA55-45BA-ADCC-278662830F3A Wed, 16 Sep 2009 09:33:27 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is urging all U.S. soybean producers, their family members, and agribusinesses to voice concerns with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rule on the implementation of the expanded Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS-2) before next week’s September 25 deadline for comments. The EPA’s proposed rule on RFS-2 implementation is significantly flawed and would do unnecessary harm to the competitive position of the U.S. soy biodiesel industry. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r091509.htm DAFE7380-712A-46B0-A8C5-51612317AF57 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:13:28 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) congratulates Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) as the new Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. Senator Lincoln is the first woman and the first Arkansan to serve as Chair in the 184-year history of the Committee. ASA also thanks Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) for his leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Senator Harkin will remain an active member of the Agriculture Committee, but had to relinquish his position to become Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, following the death of Senator Edward Kennedy. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r091009.htm 0DD2E590-E0BB-4E83-93EB-195B1EF84FDA Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:46:50 -0500 Farmer leaders of the American Soybean Association (ASA) and Iowa Soybean Association once again had the chance to communicate soybean policy priorities to officials from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as well as Senator Charles Grassley (R-IA) and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r090909.htm 432DC166-D329-4C68-AFE0-7E30AC191FD6 Wed, 9 Sep 2009 15:43:54 -0500 American Soybean Association (ASA) Past-President Bart Ruth was announced as the Agribusiness recipient for the Abraham Lincoln National Agricultural Awards. The winners were announced at the 2009 Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois. Ruth was President of ASA in 2001-02. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r090209.htm 3F6699A3-7550-4F78-BA4A-F16EAB4BF59A Thu, 3 Sep 2009 10:37:16 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) is encouraging all U.S. soybean producers, and their family members, neighbors and friends, to voice concerns with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rule on the implementation of the expanded Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS-2). With the future of the U.S. biodiesel industry at stake, ASA is issuing a national Call-to-Action for grassroots activism regarding the proposed rule. ASA is providing an easy to use online form where people can read the letter, add personal contact information, and submit comments with the click of a button. Family members, friends and neighbors are also encouraged to use this form. Go to http://www.soygrowers.com/policy/RFS2.htm to access the online form, which includes the letter and links to additional background information. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r082609.htm 0142659D-6894-4EB7-B38D-A87A5ED8B7E8 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:15:51 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) submitted comments today to the House Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management for the record of the Public Hearing to review implementation of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008. ASA brought to the Subcommittee’s attention implementation of the Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels, included in Section 9005 in the Energy Title of the Farm Bill. ASA played a lead role in asking Congress to extend the Bioenergy Program that had been initiated under the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, and ASA worked hard to see it authorized and funded. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r070209.htm 4FB66B53-E903-44DF-9CD2-73408C5C3664 Thu, 2 Jul 2009 14:03:08 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today expressed strong support for provisions included by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson (D-MN) in the House climate change bill (H.R. 2454), while stating that it believes that further improvements are needed in the underlying legislation scheduled for consideration by the U.S. House of Representatives. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r062609.htm 4CED7BF3-A7D7-4248-808D-F93BAC5330B9 Fri, 26 Jun 2009 11:20:30 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) provided comments today in Washington, D.C. at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Public Hearing on the EPA’s Proposed Rule for the expanded Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS-2). ASA sees numerous flaws in the approach EPA is using for indirect land use changes in its proposed rule. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r060909.htm 86BFB1F2-98DB-4630-8C85-AE64E8CB61D7 Tue, 9 Jun 2009 13:27:47 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) and Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont Business, are seeking applicants for the 2010 Young Leader Program. The Young Leader Program is recognized throughout agriculture for its longstanding tradition of identifying and cultivating the producer leaders who are shaping the U.S. soybean industry. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r060309.htm 618DEC61-5392-466F-BD7B-81AD0D0B1731 Wed, 3 Jun 2009 10:20:28 -0500 Two U.S. Soybean farmers participated in a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) fact-finding mission to Colombia this week.Designed to learn more about the pending Colombia-U.S. FTA and increased opportunities for U.S. soy products, the trip included meetings with government officials, business leaders, union representatives and displaced workers that have been employed by social programs coordinated between the Colombian government and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r052209.htm 81176C5E-D8D5-487F-AE7C-47C19CC536B9 Fri, 22 May 2009 11:09:10 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) testified today before the U.S. House of Representatives Small Business Subcommittee on Regulations, Healthcare and Trade on the impacts of outstanding regulatory policy on small biofuels producers and family farmers. Uncertainty over federal policy, such as the extension of the biodiesel tax credit, implementation of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS-2), and implementation of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Bioenergy Program is undermining investor confidence in the biodiesel industry. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r052109.htm 80687405-9CDB-4DC7-A006-A62B81BF5E30 Thu, 21 May 2009 10:46:40 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today expressed support for the Obama Administration’s budget request for aquaculture research that could increase demand for soybean meal in aquafeed. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) requested an increase of $2 million for aquaculture research, some of which would be spent on studies on life-cycle cost analysis of aquaculture, marine fish hatcheries for stock enhancement, the environmental impacts of escapes from aquaculture, as well as sustainable feeds. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r051409.htm FCA3B35E-EC59-4FFB-A6CF-2E4D9A370921 Thu, 14 May 2009 09:03:04 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today submitted comments to the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy and Research regarding the impact of the indirect land use and renewable biomass provisions in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) expanded Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS-2). ASA sees numerous potential flaws in the approach EPA is using for indirect land use changes in its proposed rule. Further, there are numerous factors that ASA believes refute the possibility that significant international indirect land use change would result from the relatively small increase in U.S. biodiesel production called for under the RFS-2. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r050609.htm FB983A92-85D4-4578-8905-4B7F35C36C0F Wed, 6 May 2009 14:36:54 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today reacted to the proposed rule for indirect land use and renewable biomass provisions in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) expanded Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS-2). The approach EPA has proposed to use for their proposed rule on RFS-2 implementation is significantly flawed, could make the RFS-2 goals unattainable and harms the competitive position of the U.S. soy biodiesel industry. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r050509.htm 69BA2AA5-D3D5-4801-ACCD-795A2BDE4215 Tue, 5 May 2009 16:17:52 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) led a Commodity Roundtable today in Washington, D.C., where representatives from 19 national agricultural groups discussed how organizations representing American crop and livestock producers can work together on potential climate change legislation and current animal welfare issues. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r042909.htm 8548D041-E7D3-45CA-B46E-D8BAA91E81D8 Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:21:43 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today celebrated more than a decade of diligent and persistent work on behalf of U.S. soybean farmers to advance global acceptance of new biotech soybean traits after LibertyLink® soybeans (A2704-12) from Bayer CropScience received food safety approval from the Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA). This final regulatory approval in South Korea clears the way for unrestricted planting in the United States and importation into all major markets for LibertyLink soybeans, along with Roundup Ready 2 Yield™ soybeans (MON 89788) from Monsanto, which received final KFDA regulatory approval on Feb. 27, 2009. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r040209.htm 262E146D-8A14-4783-AC23-E98E6821D0C4 Thu, 2 Apr 2009 15:02:44 -0500 The nation’s soybean producers, through the American Soybean Association (ASA), will serve an array of soy-based foods to members of Congress, government officials and industry representatives at a special Capitol Hill luncheon. The Seventh Annual Congressional Soyfoods Lunch is slated for noon to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, in Room 1302, Longworth House Office Building. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r030409.htm 49854D43-7C9E-43C2-AB39-060ED6751104 Wed, 4 Mar 2009 11:02:14 -0500 Soybean producers gathered in Grapevine, Texas this week to review and revise the policy direction of the American Soybean Association (ASA). One hundred thirty four producers from ASA’s 25 state affiliates served as Voting Delegates in this annual process that guides the ASA as it pursues future initiatives to improve U.S. soybean farmer profitability. The voting delegates session was held on Saturday, Feb. 28, following conclusion of the Commodity Classic Convention and Trade Show. What follows are the most significant additions and modifications covering a variety of important soybean issues. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r022809.htm 275EF32F-FB79-40A9-9BA3-0197A7CEB25A Sat, 28 Feb 2009 11:00:51 -0500 The American Soybean Association (ASA) welcomes today’s announcements that two new biotech-enhanced soybean varieties, the Roundup Ready 2 Yield (TM) Soybean (MON 89788) from Monsanto and the LibertyLink® soybeans (A2704-12) from Bayer CropScience have both achieved additional import approval milestones from Korean regulatory agencies that pave the way for commercialization in the United States. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r022709.htm 19E19993-E827-49E2-AEA4-996E7C3CE594 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 10:58:36 -0500 The American Soybean Association and BASF Corporation are inviting U.S. soybean producers to sign up for the 2009 Secure Optimal Yield (SOY) Challenge. In pursuit of greater profitability, nearly 300 growers in 25 states took part in the 2008 SOY program, and many more utilized the methods and products described in the program to conduct their own "unofficial" field trials. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r020409.htm 73830036-B865-419B-B356-A8EA25790AD8 Wed, 4 Feb 2009 15:19:10 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) welcomes the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announcement to continue the Asian Soybean Rust Pest Information Platform for Education and Extension (PIPE). ASA has been working with USDA and Congress to secure federal funding for PIPE because the system helps protect the U.S. soybean crop valued at more than $30 billion and saves soybean producers millions of dollars annually. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r020309.htm A3391300-0C5A-42B1-86E3-770617813E20 Tue, 3 Feb 2009 12:03:31 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) submitted a document outlining its 2009 policy priorities to the Obama Administration ahead of President-elect Barack Obama’s inauguration as President of the United States on January 20, 2009. By developing and advocating soybean farmer top policy priorities to the incoming Obama Administration, ASA continues its rich tradition of working in the best interest of U.S. soybean farmers. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r011409.htm 78040C02-FC6D-45EE-861A-D03957A047BB Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:30:00 -0600 The American Soybean Association (ASA) today expressed disappointment upon receiving news that a few disgruntled checkoff and state leaders have formed a new soybean federation in an attempt to distract the U.S. soybean industry and undermine ASA’s efforts calling for an audit and investigation of the national soybean checkoff. http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2009_releases/r010909.htm 69040C02-FC6D-45EE-861A-D03957A047BB Fri, 9 Jan 2009 15:30:00 -0600 "ASA partnered with PHC on the project because part of our mission is to help identify new ways for ASA members to maximize soybean yield and profitability," said ASA President John Hoffman, a soybean producer from Waterloo, Iowa. "N-Hibit’s ability to reduce SCN damage and boost overall plant health is consistent with that mission, so ASA worked with PHC to make our members aware of the Satisfaction Guarantee program." http://www.soygrowers.com/newsroom/releases/2008_releases/r112508.htm 68040C02-FC6D-45EE-861A-D03957A047AA Wed, 26 Nov 2008 10:19:10 -0600