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U.S. soybean farmers respond to demandNeeds of food, feed and fuel industries prompt bountiful harvest As we approach the end of the fourth-largest soybean harvest on record, the United Soybean Board and soybean checkoff point out the role U.S. soybean farmers play in feeding and fueling this country and the world. In direct response to strong global demand for more soy products, U.S. soybean farmers responded emphatically last spring by planting more soybeans. According to the most recent Crop Production report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service, U.S. soybean production rose significantly from a year ago. USDA forecasts total U.S. soybean production at 2.92 billion bushels, up 9 percent over last year. Also, NASS estimates harvested soybean acres at 74.4 million acres, a 16 percent spike over last year. In the spring, wet weather delayed plantings. Later, during critical parts of the growing season, a lack of moisture struck some areas. In total, weather factors added up to decreased average yield. USB Chairman Ike Boudreaux said he hopes the NASS numbers are reassuring for those who are skeptical that an affordable supply of soy exists. "I've always believed we're part of the solution," said Boudreaux, who raises soybeans in Lebeau, La. "U.S. soybean farmers can produce enough soybeans to satisfy food, feed and fuel needs. We're part of the answer." Based on a checkoff-funded survey conducted last summer, most Americans agree with Boudreaux. The National Agricultural Image Survey indicated 82 percent of eligible voters surveyed believe U.S. farmers are not to blame for higher food prices. It also found more than two-thirds of consumers support biodiesel as a source of energy that can meet our needs in the next 5 to 10 years. At this time of year, many Americans sit down to enjoy holiday feasts featuring turkeys and hams, making it a good time to consider the U.S. soybean industry's relationship with the U.S. animal agriculture industry. U.S. poultry and livestock annually consume 98 percent of the soybean meal utilized in this country, which equated to 30 million metric tons last year. Feeding the poultry and livestock industries creates a demanding market situation for soybeans, one that requires quantity and quality. The soybean checkoff works to ensure that U.S. soybean farmers and other rural residents fully understand the importance of animal agriculture. It also invests in research to improve soybean traits for animal nutrition and to remove allergens and other anti-nutritional factors from soy. "The market for soybeans is good, and U.S. soybean farmers have again stepped up to the plate this year," Boudreaux said. "Farmers will continue to respond to the market and continue to make sure there is a constant, abundant supply of high-quality soybeans." USB is made up of 68 farmer-directors who oversee the investments of the soybean checkoff on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers. Checkoff funds are invested in the areas of animal utilization, human utilization, industrial utilization, industry relations, market access and supply. As stipulated in the Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soybean checkoff. 12/1/08 Date: 11/26/08
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