By Bryan Stobaugh, Advisor at U.S. Soybean Genetics Collaborative

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As we approach the upcoming year, our commitment to empowering farmers through innovative public breeding practices is stronger than ever. We recognize that access to high quality soybean seeds is not just beneficial but essential for farmers striving to maximize their crop yields. Public breeding programs have historically played a pivotal role in advancing soybean genetics and training the next generation of agricultural scientists. However, access to these vital resources has dwindled, with public-bred varieties now comprising less than 10% of the soybean acreage in the U.S. This is where the USSGC steps in—our mission is to rejuvenate public breeding initiatives, ensuring farmers have the tools necessary for success.

The importance of public breeding cannot be overstated. These programs serve as a “genetic safety net,” providing essential diversity to combat emerging pests and adapt to shifting climate conditions.

Additionally, they open doors to niche markets, including non-GM soybeans, enhancing farmers’ options.

Our vision is clear: we aim to elevate public breeding programs, showcasing their contributions and aligning them with the real needs of farmers and the broader agricultural community. Collaboration with farmer leaders and Qualified State Soybean Boards (QSSBs) will allow us to pinpoint impactful research projects and direct resources where they are most needed.

The USSGC Seed Guide for 2026 will serve as an invaluable resource, helping farmers, researchers, and agronomists navigate the variety of soybean options available. By prioritizing public-bred varieties, this guide ensures that agricultural innovations are accessible to all stakeholders.

Our work plan includes creating a collaborative knowledge-sharing framework, developing strategic roadmaps for public universities partnered with Qualified State Soybean Boards (QSSBs), and improving the transition of research innovations to market. By streamlining these processes, we can guarantee that farmers witness tangible returns on their investments in public breeding.

Together, we can achieve extraordinary outcomes. The USSGC is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment that ensures advancements in soybean genetics benefit all involved. We invite you to share your questions, insights, and ideas as we embark on this important journey toward a more sustainable and prosperous future for soybean farming.

Thank you for your commitment to this vital mission!