Letter from SDSA President Kevin Deinert

Slow Down! Every parent’s word to their children as they run about the house or through the yards. I too remember those words my parents said to me when I was a child (who am I kidding, they still say it to me!) And while we always think we won’t act like our parents, I too hear myself saying it to my children. As we enter the miracle of another growing season, we must remind ourselves to slow down not only for ourselves and those around us, but to appreciate the gift we have been given of being stewards of this land. As every farmer will tell you, while it may be stressful at times, there always seems to be fondness and excitement in the challenge that lies ahead of us in this time of planting.

From the South Dakota Soybean Association, greetings to you. While you farmers wrap up your busy spring, our directors are just getting started on their eventful summer. There continues to be no shortage of challenges that have been thrown our way. Tariffs are the talk of the town and rest assured that we have been doing our best to communicate to our elected officials the farmers’ struggles in these types of environments. Communication has also been the key as we continue to talk to our trade partners to shore up relationships and foster new growth.

Just like the weather, the political climate is ever changing and we here at SDSA are doing our utmost to advocate for you. We continue to support the completion of a Farm Bill and urge our national elected officials to make sure the safety nets are in place for our farmers. No stone is unturned as we continue to work to ward off harmful regulations and overreach from government organizations such as the EPA. As always, we want farmers to have every tool in the tool bag.

As the political environment always seems to be hot, the summer heat brings on new opportunities for you as farmers to connect with your elected directors. Be on the lookout for Shop Talks, fairs and farm shows as we look forward to hearing from you. These types of events give us the opportunity to connect with you and help elevate our association.

I again thank you for your support of our organization. We sincerely appreciate your interest and support.

And just as I tell my 2-year-old (for the umpteenth time), I too ask you to slow down and appreciate what God has given us. From fields, to pastures, and gardens there is no shortage of reason to not slow down. God bless, stay safe, and have a great Summer everyone!