Missouri Soybean Association renames Bay Farm to ‘Farm for Soy Innovation’

Photo: Missouri Soybeans

The Missouri Soybean Association announced July 23 the official renaming of the Bay Farm Research Facility to the “Farm for Soy Innovation.”

This change reflects the facility’s dedication to advancing soybean research, sustainability and technological innovation in the Midwest.

Since its opening in 2012, the facility in Columbia, Missouri, has been a vital center for collaboration between soybean scientists, researchers and farmers.

The Farm for Soy Innovation will continue supporting high-quality research to improve the profitability and sustainability of soybean farming in Missouri.

“This renaming marks a significant milestone for us,” said Renee Fordyce, MSA president. “The Farm for Soy Innovation embodies our forward-thinking approach and dedication to enhancing the agricultural landscape for soybean farmers.”

The renaming underscores the facility's role in promoting cutting-edge research and integrating advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to enhance farming practices and decision-making.

“The Farm for Soy Innovation represents our commitment to excellence in the soybean industry,” said Gary Wheeler, CEO and executive director of Missouri Soybeans. “This facility plays a crucial role in addressing the real-world challenges faced by our farmers today and in the future.”

The farm supports numerous projects focused on agronomic practices, conservation techniques, breeding enhancements and novel-trait discoveries, which will offer significant benefits to the farmer in the market pipeline.

“I am proud of our farmers’ decision to make this change and choose a name that truly encapsulates the meaning of the work we do every day at the farm,” said Clayton Light, director of conservation agriculture and farm operations at Missouri Soybeans. “Our goal for the farm is to have every acre serve a purpose, and we believe all 285 acres are used to facilitate research, market development and educational advancements.”

MSA and the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council said they are excited about the future of the Farm for Soy Innovation.

With ongoing support from stakeholders and investments in research and development, the facility will remain a vital resource for Missouri’s agricultural community.

Together, the organization is working to ensure that Missouri soybean farmers have the tools, knowledge and technologies to thrive in an ever-changing agricultural landscape.