Third-generation farmer Dustin Henson of Paragould has been chosen by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to join the United Soybean Board, where he will represent Arkansas for a three-year term.
The board works to assure the profitability and sustainability of soybean production and marketing, and was authorized by the Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act of 1990.
Henson is one of 77 volunteer farmer leaders serving on the United Soybean Board from 29 states. The number of representatives from each state is based on the number of bushels of soybeans produced in each state. Arkansas was 11th in production in 2020 at 139 million bushels. Illinois led at 604.8 million bushels, followed by Iowa, Minnesota and Indiana.
“Dustin’s appointment to the United Soybean Board is great news for Arkansas soybean producers,” Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board Chair John Freeman said in a statement. “He will ensure our priorities are heard on a national level.” Members of the board are required to be soybean farmers nominated by a qualified state soybean board.
In a news release, Henson said the appointment was an honor. “I am looking forward to being a part of this board with the goal of improving the sustainability and profitability of the soybean industry, not only for Arkansas but for all of the United States.”
