Planters Preparing, Biofuels Expanding

Mid-to-late April is the peak window for soybean planting here in Illinois. By now, you’ve made your decisions on seed, inputs and equipment. You’ve watched the weather. You’ve run the numbers. And when the conditions are finally right, you go.

That soybean farmer mindset – preparing and moving with the purpose of planting opportunity – is also how we approach developing a wide range of markets for your soybeans. This month’s issue of Illinois Field & Bean outlines one specific area of market growth. It’s our Biofuels Issue, and it comes at a time when demand is as much about policy education as it is about infrastructure and boots-on-the-ground marketing strategy.

On April 1, Illinois’ B20 law moved fully into effect, increasing the biodiesel blend requirement from B17 to B20. That didn’t happen by accident. It took years of education, bipartisan work and steady engagement. In our cover story, David Kubik, ISA’s Biofuels and Trade Policy Manager, walks through what the law means and how it is already generating stronger demand for Illinois soybeans. Every additional percentage point of blend represents more bushels pulled through the system.

In this issue, we also take a closer look at Incobrasa Industries’ expansion in Gilman. Incobrasa processes soybeans into animal feed, vegetable oil and biodiesel. As biodiesel use increases, processing capacity must keep pace. Companies are investing because they see long-term stability in biofuels as well as well as in Illinois’ nation-leading soybean production. That kind of investment strengthens our basis, local markets and competitiveness.

Have you ever been asked, “Why biodiesel?” We tackle that directly in this issue. From lower carbon-intensity scores to engine performance to farmer profitability, the benefits reach across the supply chain. Higher blends are working for fleets, municipalities and private industry.

Biofuels are not the only demand driver for soybeans, but they are one of the most significant and scalable markets we have today. As discussions continue around a Low Carbon Fuel Standard and as new economic impact data shows the role biodiesel plays nationally, it’s clear this market is still evolving. Our job at ISA is to make sure Illinois farmers are positioned to benefit from that growth.

On a more personal note, I’ve just celebrated my six-year anniversary as your CEO of the Illinois Soybean Association.

When I look back, I don’t think about individual milestones. I think about the work we’ve done together. We’ve adopted a new strategic plan, restructured committees to be more effective and farmer-focused, and completed a new building, occupied by a world-class staff, that gives ISA a stronger foundation for the future.

Although I am proud of those achievements, they bear the fingerprints of many. They were the result of intentional collaboration between a committed Board and a dedicated staff, all working on behalf of 43,000 soybean farmers across Illinois. We haven’t always agreed. We’ve had tough conversations. We’ve made a few missteps. But we’ve learned from those moments and come out stronger.

Earning your trust by implementing the direction of your farmer Board Directors has been my top priority. And I endeavor daily to be worthy of that charge.

Steady progress is a sign of good leadership, just as it is a sign of a successful planting season. You focus on what you can control. You rely on a strong team. And you keep your eyes on the long-term return.

As you head into the fields this spring, know that ISA is working just as deliberately to build and protect demand for every bushel you grow. Biofuels are a big part of that picture, and the work we’re doing today is aimed at making sure the markets are there when your crop is ready.

Here’s to a safe and successful 2026 planting season.