Blog: Discover Farming, Food, & Community
Learn all about what happens in a field, recipes that are connecting us, and the farmers that are feeding the world.
Harvest, Heart, and Home: A Day on the Bowar Farm with Kelsey Steineke
On a crisp fall day in Faulkton, South Dakota, writer Kelsey Steineke joined April and James Bowar in the middle of harvest. From long days in the field to the teamwork that keeps their operation running, the Bowars embody the dedication and heart behind modern farming. Kelsey’s visit offered a glimpse into the balance of family, faith, and community that makes life on the farm so meaningful.
Plant-Based Protein on Your Table
Looking for ways to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor? Soy-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, edamame, and soy crumbles are packed with complete protein and versatile enough for any meal. From stir-fries to baked goods, discover simple swaps and tasty ideas to bring soy to your table.
From Field to Freight: The Journey of South Dakota Soybean
Harvest may be over, but for South Dakota soybeans, the journey is just beginning. From local elevators to ports overseas, each step in the transportation process plays a vital role in connecting farmers to global markets and keeping agriculture moving forward.
At Home with a Farmer: Tri-Tip Steak with Calli & Tate Williams
Step into the Williams family kitchen in Platte, South Dakota, where ranchers Calli and Tate share their favorite tri-tip steak recipe and a glimpse into farm life. From feeding soy to their cattle to grilling on their Big Green Egg, their story connects the journey from soil to steak—and reminds us how farming, food, and family all come together at the table.
Soy in Your Holiday Menu: How Soy Shows Up in Holiday Cooking
From flaky pie crusts to golden dinner rolls, soy plays a quiet but important role in your favorite holiday dishes. Discover how soybean oil brings heart-healthy flavor and versatility to your seasonal cooking and baking.
Cultivating Connections: YPN Manager Jaci Pieters Visits the Deinert Family Farm
Join YPN Manager Jaci Pieters on a day at the Deinert Family Farm in Mt. Vernon, SD, as she experiences the challenges and joys of farm life firsthand. From caring for cattle and managing crops to learning the value of hard work and community, Jaci gains a newfound appreciation for the dedication that fuels South Dakota agriculture.
Why Soy Is a Smart Choice for Pheasant Nutrition
Ever wonder what goes into raising healthy pheasants for hunting season? AJ Schmitz, with Southeast South Dakota Pheasant Association operation, combines thoughtful care, family involvement, and soy-based nutrition to give every bird the best start. Dive into the full story and learn why nutrition matters.
At Home with a Farmer: Banana-Nut Muffins with Tanner Hento
Step into the kitchen with South Dakota soybean farmer Tanner Hento as he shares his family’s Banana-Nut Muffin recipe and the connection between farming, food, and sustainability. Discover how soy brings flavor and purpose to every bite.
Soy Oil and Heart Health: What You Need to Know
When it comes to caring for your heart, the fats you choose make a big difference. Soy oil is more than a versatile cooking ingredient—it’s packed with polyunsaturated fats, vitamin E, and omega-6s that support healthy cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular wellness. Choosing soy oil not only benefits your body but also supports local farmers and sustainable practices, making it a smart choice for both your kitchen and your community.
Fridge Storage Tips: Keep Food Fresh and your Family Safe
Proper fridge storage is key to keeping food fresh and preventing foodborne illness. Discover tips for organizing your fridge, storing leftovers safely, and maintaining the right temperature for your family’s health.
Soy Oil 101: How it Stacks Up Against Other Oils
When it comes to cooking oils, soybean oil often flies under the radar—but it deserves a closer look. Packed with heart-healthy fats, vitamins E and K, and a high smoke point, it’s as versatile in the kitchen as it is beneficial for your health. Beyond nutrition, choosing soybean oil supports local farmers, promotes sustainable agriculture, and helps reduce environmental impact compared to some tropical oils. From frying and baking to salad dressings and marinades, soybean oil is a reliable, all-around option that’s good for your meals, your community, and the planet.
Celebrating National Farm Safety Month: Honoring and Protecting Our Farmers
September is National Farm Safety Month, a time to honor South Dakota farmers for their hard work and dedication while highlighting the importance of safety on the farm. From equipment checks to mental health awareness, small steps can make a big difference in protecting the people who feed us all.
Back to School with Soy-Based Inks
From notebooks to crayons, soy-based inks are quietly making back-to-school supplies more eco-friendly. Learn how these everyday items help students and classrooms go green.
The Power of Buying Local: Fresh, Healthy, and Sustainable
Follow the journey from South Dakota's fields and cattle ranches to your local grocery store. How does buying local benefit you and more far beyond state lines?
Back-to-School Snack Solutions: Tasty Soy Recipes Kids will Love
Finding quick, nutritious snacks for kids can be a challenge. These easy soy-based recipes are packed with protein, flavor, and fun—perfect for busy families!
Sweet & Sustainable: Soy-Infused Caramel Rolls for Cozy Fall Mornings
Fall mornings call for something warm and comforting, and these soy-infused caramel rolls deliver just that. Made with fortified soy milk, they’re soft, sweet, and sustainable—showing how one simple ingredient can add both nutrition and a meaningful connection to South Dakota’s soybean farmers.
Maesa Eschenbaum Explores Resilience and Tradition on the Tschetter Family Farm
Maesa Eschenbaum shares a heartfelt look at resilience, tradition, and modern farming on the Tschetter family farm in Bridgewater, South Dakota.
Where Food Begins: Landi Schweigert’s Day with Andrew Heine in Vermillion
From growing up on a farm in Gregory, South Dakota to running a food-based business in Sioux Falls, Landi Schweigert has always had a connection to agriculture. But her recent visit to Heine Hybrid Corn Seed in Vermillion opened her eyes to just how far farming has come—and how much intention, innovation, and legacy live behind every seed.
Karlie Solum Explores Generational Farming and Community Leadership with Drew Peterson
Karlie Solum visits Drew Peterson’s farm to explore generational farming, community leadership, and the passion driving South Dakota agriculture. Learn about agriculture technology and their passion for community involvement.
From the Ground Up with Calli Williams
Calli Williams didn’t grow up ranching—but that didn’t stop her and her husband from building TW Angus from the ground up. From feeding cattle with forklifts to raising steers for their own beef business, Calli shares what it’s like to be a first-generation rancher, a mom of boys, and a passionate voice for South Dakota agriculture.