FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
The Delaware Soybean Board (DSB) has approved $188,762 in funding for research, promotion, and communication projects for fiscal year 2025. These strategic investments aim to maximize the value of every dollar invested in the soybean checkoff. From field-level challenges to consumer outreach and market development, these projects are selected with one goal in mind: delivering real, measurable returns to Delaware soybean growers.
“Soybean farmers contribute to the checkoff with every bushel sold, and in a challenging year like this one, it’s more important than ever that those dollars are put to work wisely,” said Tim Rogers, DSB Chair. “That’s why we’ve prioritized projects that deliver real impact – from improving yields in the field to expanding new markets for soy. These investments are about helping farmers stay profitable and resilient.”
Research That Pays Off in the Field
The Board approved $57,739 for eight research projects led by university and extension experts. These studies address local production concerns to help farmers make informed management decisions. Funded projects include:
- Monitoring in-season root-knot nematode reproduction (Alyssa Koehler Betts, University of Delaware)
- Proline as a Shield: Safeguarding Soybean Yields Amid Drought and Climate Uncertainty (Naveen Kumar Dixit, University of Maryland Eastern Shore)
- The Effects of Gypsum or Lime Application on Yield and Nutrient Uptake (Jarrod Miller, University of Delaware)
- Soybean Row Spacing and Planting Rate Effects on Litter Decomposition (Jarrod Miller, University of Delaware)
- Planting Green Early – Can It Improve Stand Establishment While Improving Weed Control (Mark VanGessel, University of Delaware)
- Delivering Soybean Insect Scouting Support Tools (David Owens, University of Delaware)
Promotion and Outreach That Builds Demand
Beyond research, the board committed $131,023 to communications, promotions, and educational initiatives. This year’s funding supports efforts to inform, connect, and grow market opportunities. Highlights include:
- Coordinated media and social campaigns to promote the benefits of soy
- Participation in events like the Delaware State Fair and Ag Week
- Continuation of the Delaware Soybean Yield Contest
- Support for leadership and safety initiatives that elevate the agricultural industry
- Expansion of soy-based renewable fuel opportunities
Each initiative is carefully selected to reflect DSB’s focus on ROI – whether that’s increasing yields per acre, improving public perception, or advancing new uses for soybeans. To learn more about the Delaware Soybean Board and how your checkoff dollars are invested, visit www.desoybeans.org.
Delaware farmers plant about 150,000 acres of soybeans annually, producing over seven million bushels of beans and generating approximately $60 million in value to the state. The Delaware Soybean Board consists of nine farmer-directors and the Secretary of Agriculture. Funded through a one-half of one percent assessment on the net market value of soybeans at their first point of sale, the checkoff works with partners in the value chain to identify and capture opportunities that increase farmer profit potential.
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For information, contact:
Danielle Bauer Farace
Executive Director
Delaware Soybean Board
443-812-4526
Danielle@desoybeans.org
www.desoybeans.org