With the use of checkoff funds, the Brown County Corn and Soybean Growers donated to the Sleepy Eye FFA Chapter to provide biodiesel used to transport students to the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo.   

 The National Convention & Expo is being 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 at the national level. They can attend to participate during the National Days of Service, attend learning sessions, tours and the trade show.   

  “We are excited to see the hard work and dedication these FFA members have shown in agriculture,” Brown County Corn and Soybean Growers Chair, Keith Lendt. “Brown County Corn and Soybean Growers Association are happy to support them with a donation for their National FFA trip.”  

  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 futures, but through the organization students can apply for grants and scholarships to further their education.   

 “With this donation our FFA chapter is able to give students the opportunity to travel outside of the state and see what other states have to offer when it comes to careers in agriculture,” Sleep Eye Agricultural Teacher, Katie Emmet. “They also get the opportunity to make lifelong connections with students from across the nation.”  

The Minnesota Soybean Growers Association is a national leader when it comes to biodiesel. Minnesota was the first state to require biodiesel in diesel blends and in 2018, Minnesota became the first state to require B20. Using B20 is the equivalent of removing about 250,000 vehicles annually from the roads around the state. The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council also invests checkoff funds toward resources for biodiesel information and research. As a result of advocacy and promotion, biodiesel raises demand for soybeans by 13%.   

 About the Brown County Corn and Soybean Growers Board   
Brown County 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 25,000 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.