Nebraska’s soybean industry is strengthened by the people behind it. Farmers, researchers, industry leaders and future generations all play an important role in moving the industry forward. No single piece stands alone. Every decision, innovation and investment contributes to a larger mission of supporting soybean production and creating lasting value for Nebraska farmers.
As the industry continues to evolve, Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) remains focused on using checkoff dollars responsibly and strategically. Research investments are not made in isolation. They are shaped through a collaborative process that helps ensure projects address real challenges and deliver meaningful benefits to soybean farmers across the state.
A key part of that process is the Research Advisory Committee. This group of trusted experts reviews proposals, evaluates strengths and opportunities, and provides valuable insight as NSB considers where research funding can make the greatest impact.
HOW RESEARCH DECISIONS ARE MADE:
NSB uses a collaborative, farmer-focused process to help ensure checkoff dollars are invested in research that delivers value to Nebraska soybean farmers and supports the industry as a whole.
Each Year:
- NSB identifies key challenges and opportunities facing soybean farmers and invites research proposals to address them.
- The Research Advisory Committee reviews each proposal, evaluating strengths, weaknesses and potential impact.
- Committee feedback helps guide discussion and keeps research aligned with real-world needs.
- Final funding decisions are made by the NSB board.
This farmer-driven approach keeps research focused on industry needs and long- term sustainability.
THE ROLE OF THE RESEARCH ADVISORY TEAM:
Your NSB Research Advisory Committee:
✓ Reviews and ranks research proposals based on strengths and weaknesses.
✓ Provides expert insight to ensure transparency in the funding process.
✓ Helps align research with real-world challenges Nebraska farmers face.
Your NSB Research Advisory Committee Does Not:
x Make final decisions on which projects receive funding.
x Allocate checkoff dollars.
x Conduct the research themselves.
THANK YOU TO THE FY25 RESEARCH ADVISORY TEAM
The Nebraska Soybean Board extends its sincere appreciation to this year’s advisory committee members. Their dedication helps drive innovation and progress in the soybean industry.
“I especially want to thank our research advisors, who dedicate their time to evaluating each project,” says Doug Saathoff, Nebraska soybean farmer and NSB director from Trumbull. “Their expertise and commitment play an important role in helping us invest in research that benefits Nebraska soybean farmers and the future of our industry.” Ed Anderson, Ph.D. | North Central Soybean Research Program Tom Hoegemeyer, Ph.D. | Corn Breeder & retired UNL professor
Wade Walters | Nebraska Soybean Association Tim Mundorf | Central Valley Ag Cooperative
Katherine Drake Stowe, Ph.D. | United Soybean Board Jim Specht, Ph.D. | Retired UNL researcher & professor
Wayne Fithian | Rob-See-Co Ray Ward, Ph.D. | Ward Laboratories, Inc.
Brandon Hamer | Aurora Cooperative Chris Zwiener | Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.
