ANKENY, Iowa — Robb Ewoldt, Iowa Soybean Association President and soybean farmer from Davenport, praised comments by Gov. Kim Reynolds’ in her Condition of the State Address. Here is Ewoldt’s statement:

“Gov. Kim Reynolds’ calls (Jan. 12) to prioritize Iowa’s homegrown energy and provide tax relief for farmers and all Iowans bode well for the state’s 38,000 soybean producers.

“The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) strongly supports Gov. Reynolds’ call for building on Iowa’s leadership in renewable energy. We look forward to working with her and the Iowa legislature on modernizing Iowa’s renewable fuels infrastructure and increasing the production and use of biodiesel. We’ll also continue ISA’s nationally recognized efforts advancing carbon capturing solutions that improve the environment while offering new revenue options for farmers. Indeed, America’s energy is growing right here in Iowa’s farm fields.

“Iowa farmers recent completion of an estimated 610-million-bushel soybean harvest highlights the important role Iowa farmers play in providing the food, fiber and fuel used around the world. The sustainable and profitable production of high-quality soy remains key to ensuring producer success and rural vitality.

“To secure Iowa’s status as the nation’s leading producer of soy and corn, investments to improve agricultural productivity, enhance infrastructure, and protect recreational amenities are needed to meet the challenges of farmers.

“ISA supports Gov. Reynolds’ continued leadership in fostering profit opportunities for Iowa farmers, promoting critical infrastructure projects, and ensuring the protection of our natural resources.”

— Iowa Soybean Association