The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board released the results of its recent elections, confirming the two new district representatives who will help steer the state’s soybean industry. In District 1, Thomas Perlick of Sarona was elected to represent a broad swath of north‑central counties, including Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Iron, Marathon, Portage, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, Taylor, Washburn and Wood. In District 7, Matt Wagenson of Bear Creek won the seat covering the northeastern counties of Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Lincoln, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Oneida, Outagamie, Shawano, Vilas and Waupaca.
Board’s Role and Funding
The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board is a state‑wide organization composed of soybean producers from seven districts. Its primary responsibility is to collect and allocate roughly $2.4 million in assessment fees paid by Wisconsin soybean growers. Those funds are earmarked for programs that strengthen the soybean sector, including research into higher‑yield varieties, educational outreach for producers, and promotional campaigns that highlight Wisconsin‑grown soybeans in domestic and export markets.
Election Process
All elections for Wisconsin commodity marketing boards are administered by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). The agency ensures that the voting process is transparent and that eligible producers have the opportunity to select board members who will represent their interests. The recent election followed the standard schedule, with candidates filing their nominations, a period for producer voting, and the final tally certified by DATCP.
What the New Representatives Bring
Thomas Perlick, a longtime soybean farmer from Sarona, brings extensive experience in northern Wisconsin agriculture. He has been active in local farm bureaus and advocates for policies that protect family farms and promote sustainable farming practices. Matt Wagenson, based in Bear Creek, is also a seasoned producer who has served on several regional agricultural committees. Both men emphasized their commitment to advancing research that benefits small and mid‑size farms, improving market access for Wisconsin soybeans, and ensuring that assessment fees are used efficiently.
Impact on Wisconsin’s Agricultural Community
The board’s work directly affects the state’s agricultural economy, which relies on soybeans as a key cash crop. By funding research and outreach, the board helps producers adopt innovative techniques that can increase yields and reduce input costs. Moreover, promotional efforts raise consumer awareness of Wisconsin soybeans, supporting demand both at home and abroad. The newly elected members are expected to continue these efforts, reinforcing the board’s mission to keep Wisconsin’s soybean industry competitive and resilient.
How Producers Can Stay Involved
Producers interested in the board’s activities can visit the official website at wisoybean.org for updates on upcoming meetings, research projects, and outreach events. The DATCP also provides resources on how to participate in future elections, ensuring that the board remains representative of the diverse farming community across the state.
Looking Ahead
With the new leadership in place, the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board is poised to continue its support of the state’s soybean growers. The board will convene its first meeting of the term later this year to set priorities, approve budgets, and outline a strategic plan for the next two years. Stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the board’s initiatives, as the health of Wisconsin’s soybean sector remains a cornerstone of the state’s broader agricultural prosperity.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
