Norborne, Missouri, farmer Kyle Durham has been appointed to serve on the United Soybean Board (USB), according to an announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Durham, who previously served as the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council chair and representative from District 2, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the needs and concerns of farmers to his new role.
“I am always impressed by Kyle’s deep-rooted commitment and connection to agriculture,” said Gary Wheeler, Missouri Soybeans CEO and executive director. “Kyle exemplifies the dedication and innovative mindset that makes our industry thrive. His selection to USB is well deserved and serves as a testament to his genuine concern for farmers’ needs, making him a strong advocate for utilizing checkoff funds to drive positive change.”
As a sixth-generation farmer, Durham manages a corn and soybean operation alongside his father in Northwest Missouri. His devotion to the industry and commitment to serving his fellow farmers have earned him this prestigious appointment. Durham’s primary responsibility as a USB director will be to bring forward the issues and challenges farmers face, ensuring that the checkoff funds are utilized effectively to address these concerns.
“I look forward to the opportunity to work with farmers across the country who share the same dedication to the soybean industry and are committed to the producers we serve and who fund the checkoff,” said Durham. “I am eager to be engaged in the breadth of USB’s research portfolio and use their mission to help build a strong demand for soybeans. During this experience, I hope to serve the farmers in Missouri and nationwide to the best of my ability.”
Durham’s passion for the soybean industry extends beyond the borders of the Show-Me State. He enjoys engaging with international buyers of the state’s soybeans, using these interactions to gain insights into Missouri’s role in the global market. His firsthand knowledge and experience will undoubtedly contribute to USB’s efforts in promoting and expanding the demand for U.S. soybeans worldwide.
Durham joins three other farmer-leaders appointed to USB and 15 reappointed directors serving the soybean sector in the U.S. These farmer-leaders, representing 18 states, will serve three-year terms, with one alternate serving two years. The swearing-in ceremony for the new board members will take place during the USB December Meeting in St. Charles, Missouri.