Transforming Soy Production: Mr. Lance Rezac’s Key Insights from the Global U.S. Soy Summit SoyConnext – Ricky Thaper (www.rickythaper.com)
The Global U.S. Soy Summit SoyConnext, held from August 19-21, 2024, at the Hotel Marriott Marquis in San Francisco, was a pivotal event for discussing the future of sustainable nutrition. With over 800 international buyers and sellers of U.S. soybeans in attendance, the summit served as a vibrant platform for showcasing innovations and fostering collaborations within the soy industry.
One of the key figures at the summit was Mr. Lance Rezac, USSEC Chairman & U.S. Soybean Farmer. Mr. Rezac is a distinguished leader in American agriculture, managing the Rezac Land & Livestock Company in Onaga, Kansas. His 20,000-acre farm is dedicated to growing soybeans, corn, and wheat, and also features a state-of-the-art cattle and piggery operation, including advanced practices like silage production for cattle feed.
A fifth-generation farmer, Mr. Rezac’s agricultural journey began early in life, continuing a long-standing family tradition that now extends to his children, the sixth generation in agriculture. Since 1996, he has been a proponent of genetically modified (GMO) soybeans, reflecting a broader trend in the U.S., where 95% of soybean crops are GMO. His farm is equipped with modern technology, including satellite imagery and drones, which enhances precision in crop monitoring and operational efficiency.
During the summit, Mr. Rezac had a notable discussion with Mr. Ricky Thaper, Member of USSEC Trade Team from South Asia. This conversation provided valuable insights into the competitive advantages of U.S. soybeans on the global stage. Mr. Rezac highlighted several factors that set U.S. soybeans apart, including their exceptional quality, sustainability, and overall value.
Mr. Rezac shared impressive statistics demonstrating the progress U.S. soy farmers have made in sustainable practices. Since 1980, U.S. soy farmers have reduced greenhouse gas emissions per bushel by 42%, improved irrigation water use efficiency by 60%, and increased land use efficiency by 47%. Energy use efficiency has improved by 45%, and soil conservation efforts have enhanced by 34%. Soy production has surged by 130% to meet rising global demand.
Mr. Rezac also told of significant environmental achievements. Between 1997 and 2017, U.S. forestland expanded by 742,000 hectares, while cropland decreased by 3.6 million hectares. Approximately 15% of U.S. farmland is now reserved for conservation, forest development, and wildlife habitat, highlighting a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.
In discussing the factors contributing to the high yields of U.S. soybeans, Mr. Rezac emphasized the importance of technology, including drones and precision agriculture tools, which enable farmers to monitor crop health and optimize input usage with great accuracy. The use of genetically modified seeds has been key to achieving high yields and resilience against pests and diseases. U.S. farmers also produce non-GMO soybeans to meet diverse market demands.
Mechanization and advanced farm equipment further enhance efficiency, improving planting precision and reducing labor costs. Sustainable practices such as cover cropping, crop rotation, and zero-till farming are essential for maintaining soil health and minimizing environmental impact.
Mr. Rezac’s insights at the SoyConnext summit highlighted a comprehensive approach to modern agriculture, blending technological innovation with sustainable practices. This approach ensures that U.S. soybeans remain a top choice for international markets, reflecting a broader commitment to advancing global nutrition and environmental responsibility.
” The summit underscored the ongoing excellence of U.S. soy, driven by a community of farmers and industry leaders dedicated to shaping the future of agriculture while upholding strong sustainability principles. The confidence and trust that my peers have put in me is at the forefront of my mind this week as we will welcome international customers of USSOY from all around the world. In preparation for these interactions, I’m reminded that even though we are in the business of soy; it’s really all about the people and taking the time to listen to their needs and working toward solutions together. In my mind, that’s what opens doors and will lead to win-win scenarios for U.S. farmers, for our customers, and for our growing world.”
Lance Rezac
USSEC Chairman & U.S. Soybean Farmer
