By Blake Jackson
Three Wisconsin soybean producers have been selected by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to serve on the United Soybean Board (USB), a farmer-governed organization that oversees the use of soybean checkoff funds to support research, promotion and market development for growers across the country.
Tony Mellenthin of Eau Galle, Danny Brisky of Columbus and Andy Bensend of Dallas were among 42 farmers appointed to three-year terms, which take effect immediately. The appointments recognize leadership and involvement at both the state and national levels.
“We look forward to the continued leadership of Tony on the executive committee at USB,” said Jonathan Gibbs, president of the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board. “We’re excited for Danny and Andy, who will be strong representatives of Wisconsin’s soybean farmers.”
The United Soybean Board includes 77 farmer-directors from 29 soybean-producing states, along with two regional at-large representatives. Each year, roughly one-third of the board is appointed from candidates nominated by Qualified State Soybean Boards.
“I’m proud to continue to serve Wisconsin’s soybean farmers at the national level,” Mellenthin said. “I’m also blessed to have voted by my peers onto the executive committee for USB.”
Soybean checkoff investments support efforts in research, sustainability, nutrition, industrial uses and expanding domestic and global markets to enhance long-term demand and profitability for farmers.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops, Soybeans, Government & Policy