The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) steps up its efforts to make a positive impact on communities by dedicating more checkoff funds to the Stepping Up campaign. In collaboration with local county soybean boards, the campaign focuses on giving back to organizations in need across Minnesota. From schools and homeless shelters to fire departments and students, donations are made to support those making a difference in their communities.
Continuing the Stepping Up and Driving Soy initiatives, the Dakota-Rice County Corn & Soybean Growers Association joins forces with MSR&PC to promote the value-added uses of soybeans and foster community connections. Firefighters in Randolph-Hampton and Nerstrand receive soy-based shoes, while the Rice County Sheriff's Department benefits from soy-based tires donated by the association.
These campaigns aim to raise awareness among consumers about the market value and versatility of soybeans. Minnesota farmers are committed to honoring and supporting impactful groups in their communities.
The Rice County Sheriff's Department has embraced the Stepping Up campaign by equipping their entire vehicle fleet with Goodyear's soy-based tires since the initial donation in 2021. In summer 2022, over 53 counties in Minnesota participated in Stepping Up, resulting in the donation of nearly 3,000 pairs of soy-based shoes to healthcare facilities.
The remarkable return on investment (ROI) for soybean farmers is evident, as each dollar contributed toward checkoff resources generates an estimated $12.34 in value. Commodity and high oleic soybean oil, found in over 1,000 commercially available products including shoes, machinery lubricants, and asphalt, promotes sustainability and reduces reliance on petroleum-based resources.
Photo Credit: Flickr - United Soybean Board
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Corn, Soybeans