For the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC), Farmfest 2024 was a hole-in-fun.  

Featuring the MiniSoyta golf course made with soy-based SYNLawn, Minnesota Soybean’s booth was the epicenter of a fun and educational experience. Who knew soy could be so fun? 

“The interactive aspect of the Minnesota Soybean tent was phenomenal,” MSR&PC Vice Chair Gail Donkers said. “It didn’t matter what age they were, everyone was having fun and learning about how Minnesota soybean checkoff dollars are used.” 

Launched in 2003, SYNLawn, which is made with sustainable biobased materials, partnered with the United Soybean Board and the soybean checkoff to bring soy-based turf to the marketplace. Today, there have been over 350,000 installations in 32 countries.  

“People were surprised when they learned that the grass was backed with soy and even more shocked when they realized just how many soy-based products are available in the commercial marketplace,” Donkers said. “It was fun to see their eyes light up.” 

SYNLawn wasn’t the only checkoff investment highlighted at Farmfest. Tasked with directing investments of Minnesota soybean checkoff dollars toward research, education and promotion, MSR&PC supports an array of endeavors with the ultimate goal of increasing farmer profitability. While mini golfers played a round on the MiniSoyta golf course, they were exposed to the many facets of the Council through trivia questions and fun facts sprinkled throughout the course. 

“I hope everyone had a good experience and if they have children or grandchildren that it gave them a fun experience to go through our tent,” MSR&PC Director Joel Schreurs said. “But it’s also an educational opportunity not only for the children but also for adults. I hope they leave and talk to their neighbors – farmers and non-farmers – and explain the different aspects of Minnesota Soybean. We pay for a checkoff that allows us to do these things.” 

With beautiful weather despite a brief rain shower, Donkers said that Farmfest 2024 goes down as a success for Minnesota Soybean. 

“As always, Farmfest was an excellent opportunity for the Council to spread awareness about the soybean industry and engage with a diverse crowd of people,” Donkers said. “I’m already looking forward to next year.”