Minnesota soybean farmers who are interested in directing soybean checkoff funds have an opportunity to share their input: The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) is seeking candidates to apply for five board seats that expire in 2025.  

Several opportunities exist for growers to make an impact and assist the future of Minnesota soybean growers. Terms will expire in 2025 for five seats in Districts 4-9.  

“There are so many benefits of being able to represent Minnesota soybean farmers and their checkoff dollars via the MSR&PC board,” MSR&PC CEO Tom Slunecka said. “Nothing brings profitability back to the farmer as quickly as strong demand and high prices, which is what the Council is all about.” 

Board member benefits include the ability to attend one national United Soybean Board (USB) board meeting per year, the opportunity to develop and enrich strategic business management skills and a chance to guide the direction of Minnesota soybean checkoff dollars. Three-year terms for each of the five Council seats begin July 1, 2025. 

“I wholeheartedly encourage anyone with an interest in soybean marketing or enhancing rural Minnesota to apply to be an MSR&PC director,” said MSR&PC Vice Chair Gail Donkers, who also serves as election chair. “It’s truly an eye-opening experience to see just how much the Council does at not only the state, but the global level. Representing our state’s soybean farmers is a great responsibility and an even bigger privilege.” 

Candidates must be 18 years of age and a soybean producer who directly shares in the risk or loss from soybean production. Interested candidates must fill out a candidate certification form and a candidate biography form and email completed forms to Melinda Roberts at melinda@mnsoybean.com or mail completed forms to the Minnesota Soybean office no later than Jan. 27, 2025. Ballots will be mailed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture on March 17, 2025, and all ballots must be postmarked by April 2. 

For more information on candidate ballot forms and terms up for election, click here.