Blake Foxley Reflects on ASA Corteva Young Leader Experience

Blake Foxley of Platte, South Dakota, was selected as the state’s 2024-2025 ASA Corteva Young Leader, joining a prestigious program dedicated to developing the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Foxley, a second-generation farm manager at Foxley Brothers Farms, played a key role in the family operation, working alongside his relatives to make agronomic and business decisions. Managing 3,200 acres of soybeans as part of a diversified grain operation, he remained committed to sustainability and efficiency. His farm embraced innovative practices such as new crop rotations, precision agriculture technology, and collaboration with ag consultants to optimize production costs and marketing strategies.

With a background in architecture from South Dakota State University and additional training in regenerative agriculture, Foxley brought a forward-thinking approach to farm management. His leadership vision focused on strengthening South Dakota’s soybean industry by expanding market opportunities and advocating for more efficient supply chain solutions for growers.

As part of the ASA Corteva Young Leader program, Foxley participated in leadership, communication, and advocacy training designed to prepare growers for active roles in the industry. The program included sessions at the national ASA meeting in Washington, D.C., and culminated at Commodity Classic.

“The training really opened my eyes to the broader landscape of ag policy,” Foxley said. “Meeting with lawmakers in D.C. helped me understand how important it is for farmers to have a voice in the room when decisions are being made.”

He also noted how impactful it was to connect with other young leaders from across the country. “We all came from different types of operations, but we shared the same drive to grow, lead, and support agriculture for the next generation,” he said. “It was energizing to be in a room full of people who are thinking about what’s next for the industry.”

Foxley said the program strengthened his interest in serving in leadership roles at the local and state level, and potentially even nationally. His dedication to the future of soybean farming and his drive to improve industry efficiencies made him a strong representative for South Dakota in this year’s Young Leader class.