Nebraskans can use High Oleic Soybeans in 2016 season

Farmers in Nebraska will be able to plant High Oleic Soybeans for the first time in 2016, which has the potential to bring in more profit.

AGP in Hastings will be accepting the High Oleic Soybeans for farmers to contract with them for a premium.

“Throughout history, we’ve seen specialty crops gain momentum during times of lower profit, and I think right now, farmers will be looking to capture that premium as another profit opportunity,” Gregg Fujan, a soy checkoff farmer-leader from Weston, Nebraska, said.

The soybean industry, including the soybean checkoff, is excited for the new opportunity to profit and to expand the demand for the High Oleic Soybeans. The high oleic soybeans produce an oil which provides a solution to expand existing markets.

“The genetics in these soybeans will allow them to yield as well as other varieties we’re already growing so there won’t be any yield drag,” Fujan said. “Farmers who have been planting high oleic varieties in the eastern Corn Belt have seen consistent yields similar to elite genetics they currently plant.”

High oleic soybeans are grown in other parts of the United States, so Nebraska farmers can be sure they will offer a good yield despite being a new crop.