NSB Opens Board Elections for Farmers

By Scout Nelson

The Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) is actively seeking participation from soybean farmers in Districts 2, 4, and 8 to fill open seats on the board. The call for candidates commenced on December 1 and will run through April 15, offering a significant opportunity for farmers to influence the future of the soybean industry both locally and nationally.

Eligibility and Candidacy

Farmers interested in joining the board must meet several criteria:

Be at least 21 years old

• Reside in Nebraska and in the district where the election is held
• Have been actively farming soybeans in Nebraska for at least five years
• Secure an NSB candidacy petition and gather 20 signatures from fellow soybean farmers within their district

Application Process

Candidates can obtain a candidacy petition by contacting NSB’s executive director, Andy Chvatal, at 402-441-3240 or via email at andy@nebraskasoybeans.org. Completed petitions with the required signatures must be returned to the NSB office by April 15, 2025.

Role and Responsibilities

Elected board members will:

• Set annual budgets and approve projects aligning with NSB’s strategic goals
• Uphold values of integrity, leadership, and innovation
• Attend five required annual meetings and participate in various board activities including trade missions and public events
• Serve on two of four key committees to guide the board’s operational decisions
• Commit to a three-year term starting October 1, 2025

This is a pivotal role for those looking to make a substantial impact in the agricultural sector. Board membership not only allows for direct involvement in steering industry advancements but also offers a platform to represent and advocate for soybean farmers’ interests across the state and beyond.

Voting and Election Process

Eligible soybean farmers in the aforementioned districts will receive ballots and detailed candidate information through direct mail as part of NSB’s transparent election process. This initiative underscores the board’s commitment to engaging more farmers in leadership roles to foster a robust agricultural community.

Photo Credit: istock-urpspoteko