FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Cordova Md. — The Maryland Soybean Board has approved more than $550,000 for its 2026 fiscal year to support soybean research, farmer engagement, consumer education, emerging markets, and industry promotion efforts designed to strengthen Maryland’s soybean industry and deliver value to soybean farmers across the state.
The FY26 approved budget includes approximately $330,000 for promotion, outreach, and farmer-focused initiatives, along with over $220,000 supporting soybean research for projects focused on improving profitability, addressing production challenges, and advancing innovation in Maryland agriculture.
“Our Board remains committed to investing soybean checkoff dollars in programs and research that directly benefit Maryland soybean farmers,” said Eddie Boyle of Cordova, MD, Chair of the Maryland Soybean Board. “These investments support practical, farmer-driven solutions while also expanding market opportunities, strengthening consumer awareness, and advancing the long-term sustainability of the soybean industry.”
FY26 funding priorities include:
- Soybean production research and on-farm innovation
- Weed, disease, and pest management strategies
- Precision agriculture and drone technology
- Soil health and salinity management
- Support for Maryland’s animal agriculture industry, the largest consumer of Maryland-grown soybeans
- Promotion of soybean exports and development of new and emerging uses for soy-based products
- Consumer education and agricultural literacy
- Farmer leadership development and engagement
- Farm and rural safety initiatives focused on protecting farmers and workers
Funding for these projects is made possible through the soybean checkoff, which is funded by soybean farmers and invested in research, promotion, and education programs that support the profitability of the soybean industry. For more information about the Maryland Soybean Board and its programs, visit www.mdsoy.org.
Maryland farmers grow nearly 500,000 acres of soybeans each year, producing more than 20 million bushels annually. Valued at nearly $200 million to the state’s economy, soybeans rank among Maryland’s top crops and play an important role in supporting the state’s broader agricultural sector. The Maryland Soybean Board administers the soybean checkoff program in the state, investing in research, education, and market development to strengthen opportunities for Maryland soybean farmers.
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For More Information:
Danielle Bauer, Executive Director
Maryland Soybean Board
443-812-4526 | danielle@mdsoy.com
www.mdsoy.com