"We have an awful lot to be proud of across the entire state when it comes to our agriculture industry. When you look at soybeans in particular, it's our largest row crop commodity," said Wes Ward, Arkansas secretary of agriculture. "We're proud to work with Gov. Hutchinson and the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board on Arkansas Soybean Month. The governor grew up on a farm and he understands the challenges farmers face and he works hard to promote what they're doing."

 

   With approximately 3 million acres planted each year in Arkansas, soybeans have a $2 billion annual economic impact for the state. To maintain that level of productivity, Ward works with industry leaders to ensure a safe and competitive environment.

 

   "A lot of the things we do within the department range from simple regulatory action with our Plant Board to working with the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board, trying to make sure we're supportive of the industry. Certainly, there need to be regulations and restrictions," he said, "but at the same time - one thing the governor has stressed and you'll see it at the federal level as well, with Secretary Perdue at the USDA - is we're here to be of service to the industry and help make the industry successful. Producers have enough challenges with the weather and prices... government doesn't need to be one of those. We want to be helpful and supportive."

 

   The Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board (ASPB) invites all Arkansans to join in the celebration of Arkansas's soybean producers by visiting its website throughout November for exclusive content. There, visitors to the website can find recipes, learn about the many careers in agriculture, listen to podcasts on the latest research and meet the leaders who serve on the ASPB. Also, be sure to watch the Arkansas Soybean Brand Documentary, a short, two-and-a-half minu te video offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to sustain this valuable industry.