95 percent of U.S. soybean farmers use sustainable practices
“Sustainable” isn’t a new word to U.S. soybean farmers. But, using it to describe practices they have implemented for decades, such as no-till, crop rotation and water management, is a new concept for some.
Paul Fruendt, a USB director and soybean farmer from Guthrie, Oklahoma, says sustainability has always been important on his farm because it’s the right thing to do.
“Managing nutrients, controlling pests and many other sustainable farming methods have always been a part of my farm management practices because it’s good business – both for the environment and farm profitability,” Fruendt says.
Fruendt is part of the 95 percent of U.S. soybean farmers who use production practices that are considered sustainable. This measurement is according to the U.S. Soybean Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP), which is based on analysis of existing data at the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) and other agencies that collect regularly from U.S. soybean farmers.
As part of an effort to raise farmer awareness and knowledge on what makes them part of the 95 percent, the checkoff is working to highlight the overall value of sustainability and the importance of continually improving.
“Sustainability is a huge selling point, both here and abroad,” Fruendt said.
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