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Passing the Gavel: Wells Farmer Elected MSGA President

The affable Wells farmer, who climbed the advocacy leadership ladder, was elected president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) Thursday during the organization’s quarterly board meeting at its newly renovated office in Mankato.

In addition to Johnson, Brownton farmer Ryan Mackenthun was elevated to vice president, St. James grower Rose Wendinger will move to treasurer, while new Secretary Kyle Jore of Thief River Falls rounds out MSGA’s 2024-25 officer team. In a sign of MSGA’s commitment to uplift the next generation of grower leaders, the current officer team is its youngest in recent memory.

“I’m very humbled to be elected (vice president),” Mackenthun said. “We’ve all had a chance to learn the ropes, and this is a great opportunity to continue moving MSGA forward.”

Johnson, who farms with his uncle Scott, his wife, Rachel, and their family, runs his own seed business and holds extensive advocacy experience. He joined his local Faribault County Corn & Soybean Growers Board more than 20 years ago and serves on the board of Ag Management Solutions, the association management group that oversees MSGA. During his farmer leadership career, he’s advocated for MSGA during state and national hill visits; welcomed a presidential candidate to his farm; hosted legislative events and brought numerous international trade teams to his operation.

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Spider Mite Control with Predatory Mites (Neoseiulus californicus)

Video: Spider Mite Control with Predatory Mites (Neoseiulus californicus)

The predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus is an effective natural enemy of various species of spider mites, including the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae). As a key player in biological pest control, this predator helps growers protect their crops sustainably.

How does Neoseiulus californicus work?

•Specializes in targeting the larval and nymphal stages of spider mites.

•Also consumes spider mite eggs, ensuring population control.

•Detects prey through webbing and leaf damage rather than sight.

•Feeds by sucking out the contents of its prey.

Why use Neoseiulus californicus for spider mite control?

•Highly adaptable to different environments, including warm and dry conditions.

•Works as both a preventive and curative solution for spider mite infestations.

•Complements other predatory mites, such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, for integrated pest management (IPM).

•A natural, sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides.