Wisconsin’s soybean industry continues to strengthen. 

Two veteran soy industry leaders have been reelected to the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board (WSMB). On Sept. 1, Justin Bauer, representing District 2, and Steve Wilkens, representing District 6, began three-year terms that run through Aug. 31, 2027. 

“I’m excited to be able to represent Wisconsin soybean growers for another term on the board,” said Bauer, who farms near Eau Claire. “Investment decisions are not made lightly; checkoff investments have the power to change the trajectory of our industry, and I’m humbled to be able to play a role in improving the industry.” 

With the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection administering the election, the balloting period ran July 10-Aug. 15, resulting in 423 ballots cast.  

“The board needs strong leaders like Justin and Steve to help guide Wisconsin soy checkoff investments,” WSMB Executive Director Adam Kask said. “We’re excited to welcome them to the board for another term and look forward to working with them to increase farmers’ bottom lines.” 

Formed in 1983, WSMB has a long history of making wise soybean checkoff investments toward the research, education and promotion of the miracle bean. In August 2024, Bauer and Wilkens both participated in WSMB’s first-ever See For Yourself mission, which focused on export and soy processing opportunities within Wisconsin and Illinois. In 2023, WSMB played a role in promoting the proposed CHS crush plant in Evansville, which would be the first crush plant in the state. Wilkens is optimistic that the project will make significant strides during his next term on the board. 

“I’m hopeful that we can work towards getting a crush plant in the state,” said Wilkens, who farms near Random Lake. “We’ve done a lot of work and it’d be nice to see that come to fruition. And I’d like to see a continuation of working to build export markets.”