With the use of soy checkoff funds, the Blue Earth County Corn & Soybean Growers Board donated to both the St. Clair and Maple River FFA chapters to provide biodiesel used to transport students to the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo.    

 The National Convention & Expo was held Oct. 29-Nov. 1 in Indianapolis. Drawing in more than 70,000 FFA members and guests from across the nation, the event provides valuable opportunities for leadership development, hands-on learning and recognition through national competitions and award programs.   

 To compete at the national level, students had to qualify at local events, though students can still attend without competing. They can participate during the National Days of Service, attend learning sessions, tours and the convention trade show.    

 “Seeing this up-and-coming program give students the opportunity to represent our area on a national level is truly wonderful to support,” said Brandon Wendlandt, Blue Earth County Board president. “The Blue Earth County Corn and Soybean Growers Association is proud to stand behind our local FFA chapters and look forward to continuing that support in the future.”   

  FFA is an organization for those interested in agriculture and leadership hosted by public schools. It allows students to meet challenges and develop skills while exploring their interests. Members are future chemists, veterinarians, bankers, teachers and professionals in many career fields. Not only does FFA prepare students for their future, it also offers grants and scholarships to further their education.    

“This generous donation made it possible for 11 St. Clair High School students to travel to Indianapolis for the National FFA Convention and Expo,” said Mackenzie Rew, St. Clair FFA Chapter advisor. “The students had the chance to connect with FFA members from across the country, visit with colleges, and take part in general sessions. They also participated in several unique tours, including the John Deere Pavilion Museum and the Schakolad Chocolate Factory where they made their own FFA-themed chocolate bars. It was an incredible experience these students will never forget.” 

Minnesota is a national leader on the biodiesel stage. Over two decades ago, Minnesota became the first state to require biodiesel in diesel blends. In 2018, Minnesota made history again by becoming the first state to require B20 (20% biodiesel). Using B20 is the equivalent of removing about a quarter-million vehicles annually from state roads each year. The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council also invests checkoff funds toward resources for biodiesel information and research. As a result of Minnesota Soybean’s advocacy and checkoff promotion, biodiesel raises demand for soybeans by 13%, adding about $1 to every bushel of soybeans.    

 About the Blue Earth County Corn and Soybean Growers Board   
The Blue Earth County Corn and Soybean Growers is affiliated with the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council, a 15-person, farmer-led board that oversees the investment of checkoff dollars on behalf of the nearly 28,000 soybean farmers in Minnesota. The Council is governed by the rules of a federally mandated checkoff program requiring all soybean producers to pay a fee on the soybeans they sell. This money is used to promote, educate and develop market opportunities for soybeans.