Former USB Chairmen Speak Out

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The American Soybean Association’s recent request to USDA for an Office of Inspector General audit of the national checkoff program has spurred some past United Soybean Board chairmen to speak out. Eric Niemann, a soybean farmer from Nortonville, Kansas said, - in talking with my fellow past USB chairmen, we strongly defend the past and current work of the soybean checkoff and the integrity of the volunteer farmers who lead the organization. He said, - we completely disagree with the actions and criticisms of the American Soybean Association.

All past chairmen acknowledged a sometimes strained working relationship between USB and ASA, but recognized the many efforts put forth by USB to improve that relationship. The group strongly concurred that in no way has the integrity or work of the national soybean checkoff been compromised. With all of its accomplishments, Niemann pointed out that, - current U.S. farmer approval of the soybean checkoff stands at well over 70 percent, as it has for several years running.

Niemann said, - as a past chairman of USB I understand the challenges the current directors are facing. Their communications must all be approved by USDA. To be attacked so publicly puts them in a tough position to defend themselves. The former USB Chairman adds, - on top of it, the attacks come from ASA, a group USB has provided considerable support to, including more than three - million dollars in direct and indirect support in 2008 alone.