The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) appointed two Missouri soybean farmers to serve on the United Soybean Board (USB).
Tim Gottman, a farmer from Monroe City, and Aaron Porter, a producer in Dexter, will each serve three-year terms effective immediately. The appointments are part of USDA’s announcement of 42 members and four alternates appointed nationwide.
USB oversees the national soybean checkoff program, which invests farmer-funded dollars into research, promotion and market development to strengthen demand for U.S. soybeans and soy products.
Gottman previously served on the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council (MSMC) for nearly a decade, providing leadership on behalf of Missouri soybean farmers. Porter currently serves on MSMC as the past chairman of the board, providing guidance to current leadership.
“Serving on the United Soybean Board is an opportunity to help ensure soybean checkoff investments reflect farmer priorities,” Gottman said. “I am honored to represent Missouri farmers and contribute to efforts that support demand and long-term growth for soybeans.”
Porter said he looks forward to continuing his service to Missouri farmers at the national level.
“I appreciate the opportunity to serve Missouri soybean farmers through this appointment,” Porter said. “The checkoff plays an important role in supporting research and market development, and I am committed to helping ensure those investments deliver value back to farmers.”
With rich and varied agricultural experiences, both growers are suited to take the nomination from USB and serve successfully for their farmer peers.
“Tim and Aaron bring valuable experience and strong farmer leadership to the United Soybean Board,” said Casey Wasser, CEO and executive director of Missouri Soybeans. “Their service at the state level has prepared them well to represent Missouri farmers and help ensure soybean checkoff investments continue to deliver value through research, promotion and market development.”
The United Soybean Board is made up of 77 members representing 29 states and the Eastern and Western regions. Each year, the secretary of agriculture appoints approximately one-third of the board’s members for three-year terms. Nominees are submitted by qualified state soybean boards.
