Soybean farmers face an array of challenges from unpredictable markets to extreme weather while providing food, feed, and fuel for the world. To ensure their voices are heard in Washington, D.C., the American Soybean Association (ASA) advocates on critical policy and trade issues that shape the industry’s future.
Throughout 2025, American Soybean magazine has highlighted ASA’s top policy priorities. In the final quarter, focus has been on transportation and infrastructure, sustainability and conservation, and federal appropriations.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Once the last soybean is harvested, it begins a long journey to markets, relying on a network of trucks, railroads, and waterways. U.S. infrastructure has long been a competitive advantage, but aging locks, dams, roads, and bridges threaten efficiency. ASA works on Capitol Hill to secure federal funding to modernize transportation systems, ensuring soybeans move cost-effectively to domestic and export markets.
“With strong farmer voices in policy discussions, infrastructure investments benefit farmers nationwide, not just in specific districts,” said ASA Executive Director of Government Affairs Alexa Combelic. Despite legislative progress, much of the inland waterways system including the Mississippi and Illinois rivers remains outdated, requiring ongoing advocacy. Funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has supported highway repairs and pilot projects using soy-based construction materials, highlighting opportunities for innovation.
Sustainability & Conservation
ASA emphasizes sustainability across environmental, economic, and social pillars. Farmers implement on-farm practices that preserve land while maintaining productivity. ASA engages in policy development to ensure access to tools, technology, and technical assistance that support sustainable practices.
“Policy discussions increasingly focus on sustainability and conservation as central to human and soil health,” said ASA Policy Manager Carson Fort. ASA supports incentive-based approaches and opposes mandates or penalties that remove productive land from agriculture, ensuring farmers can adopt practices that balance productivity with environmental stewardship.
Appropriations
Government funding is critical for programs supporting soybean farmers. ASA advocates for increased appropriations to agencies and programs that enhance production, market access, and disaster relief. Key priorities include funding for the EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredging and capital projects, and marketing and research initiatives. Appropriations also serve as a mechanism to deliver timely financial support during economic or environmental crises.
“All of ASA’s appropriations priorities support increased demand, effective production, and efficient delivery,” said Policy Manager Joe Prosser, emphasizing the connection between funding and farm viability.
Through advocacy on infrastructure, sustainability, and appropriations, ASA ensures that U.S. soybean farmers remain competitive, resilient, and prepared for the challenges ahead.
