The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board directs Wisconsin soybean checkoff investments. It relies on dedicated producers from across the state to volunteer their time to help guide checkoff dollars.
Seats in District 2 and District 6 are up for election. The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection has certified two nominees eligible for WSMB. Elections are now open through Aug. 15.
To vote in the election, you must be an individual, partnership or other business entity engaged as an owner or tenant in the growing of soybeans within Wisconsin and selling soybeans in commercial channels and currently reside in the affected district.
“Our board of directors volunteer countless hours to ensure that checkoff investments reflect the needs of growers from around the state,” says WSMB President Pat Mullooly. “Electing the growers who represent each district is an important aspect of WSMB and ensures that the entire state is involved when making decisions.”
Current District 2 WSMB Director Justin Bauer of Eau Claire is a nominee. District 2 encompasses Buffalo, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, St. Croix, and Trempealeau counties. Random Lake grower Steve Wilkens is a nominee for District 6, which comprises Jefferson, Kenosha, Manitowoc, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha counties. Elected growers will serve three-year terms beginning Sep. 1.
DATCP mailed ballots to eligible soybean growers the week of July 8. Growers who have not received a ballot can request one by contacting DATCP Market Orders Program staff at DATCPMarketOrders@wisconsin.gov.
Send signed and completed ballots to WI DATCP, Market Order Program, PO Box 8911, Madison, WI, 53708-8911. Postmark ballots on or before Aug. 15.
