It’s hard to believe that the sun is already setting on another wheat growing season in Minnesota. I mean, wasn’t it just yesterday that we were waking our planters up from winter hibernation?
As harvest progressed and I watched as the grain left the field, I couldn’t help but think about the countless ways that the Minnesota wheat checkoff is benefiting producers. As chair of the Minnesota Wheat Research & Promotion Council, the organization that oversees wheat checkoff investments, I have the pleasure of getting an inside, in-depth look at the many ways MWRPC is working to increase farmer profitability. Between expanding export markets and funding research, the Council understands the value of the state’s two cents per bushel checkoff and doesn’t take our role lightly. Investment decisions are carefully considered and thoroughly discussed before funds are allocated.
And MWRPC is as busy as ever.
MWRPC Chair Mark Jossund farms near Moorhead.
We’re committed to on-farm research and are pursuing an opportunity to partner with NDSU to revamp our On-Farm Research Network. After we approved the FY26 budget during the June board meeting, we discussed the future direction of the Wheat Foods Council, of which MWRPC is a member, as they move through a reorganization phase. As fall progresses, we are excited to hear updates on the various research projects that MWRPC funded this growing season. Our goal, as always, is to search for applicable solutions that farmers across the state can implement on their operations.
It’s important to acknowledge the volunteer farmer leaders who spearhead MWRPC. Without the guidance of our nine board members, MWRPC wouldn’t be the powerhouse that it is. During our June board meeting, we bid farewell to three board members – Kevin Leiser, Tony Brateng and Tim Dufault – who have dedicated countless years to the wheat checkoff. Their insights and knowledge have benefited growers across the wheat growing region and I am grateful to each one of them for their contributions and their readiness to strengthen our industry.
When one chapter ends, another begins. We are excited to welcome three new directors to the board: Jeffrey Larson and Sydney Balstad will represent producers in District 1, while Dalton Harris will represent District 2. Wheat operations look different across the state, so it’s vital to have a variety of voices on the board who offer unique perspectives and ensure that decisions are made with all wheat growers in mind. Elected by Minnesota wheat farmers, I have no doubt that these three individuals will be assets to our organization, and I look forward to gaining their insight.
Our regional partners are also invaluable to MWRPC. After over four decades at North Dakota Wheat Commission, Administrator Neal Fisher is retiring. We’ve always had a close relationship with our counterparts in North Dakota, and we wish him nothing but the best in retirement.
On the national front, we continue to work closely with U.S. Wheat Associates to promote the reliability, quality and value of U.S. wheat to countries around the world. Since 2017, USW has been fortunate to be led by President/CEO Vince Peterson and after eight dedicated years, he retired at the end of June. But not to worry, we are in good hands as Mike Spier took over the reins effective July 1. Previously serving as USW vice president of overseas operations, Spier is perfectly positioned to guide the organization, and we look forward to working with him. Vince isn’t the only friend at USW who has recently retired – USW Vice President of Communications Steve Mercer retired as of July 1. Steve has done a tremendous job communicating for wheat farmers and was a great asset to the industry. We wish both Vince and Steve a happy retirement.
There is never a dull moment at MWRPC, and I am grateful to be able to lead such a wonderful organization.
Mark Jossund
MWRPC Chair
