The American Soybean Association has honored Sen. Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) with the Soy Champion Award for her outstanding public advocacy for soybean farmers. As a member of the Senate Ag Committee, Heitkmap has done considerable work for biodiesel, farm programs, and trade and transportation.
“Senator Heitkamp has proven herself to be a strong voice for North Dakota soybean farmers,” said Ed Erickson, Jr., a soybean farmer and ASA Director from Milnor, N.D. “She has relentlessly and consistently reached across the aisle to fight for the priorities of soybean farmers, both in North Dakota and across the country.”
ASA presented Sen. Heitkamp with the award during the association’s annual July board meeting and Legislative Forum, in which the ASA directors and representatives from 30 soybean-growing states gather in Washington to meet with lawmakers and raise the profile of public policy issues impacting soybean farmers.
“Growing up in a small town in rural North Dakota, I understand the importance of farms to supporting our way of life. And throughout my career in public service, including in the U.S. Senate, I’ve been an advocate for rural America,” said Sen. Heitkamp. “I greatly appreciate this award which reinforces that the work we do in Congress has serious impacts on farmers and our communities. We need strong policies that give soybean farmers and all farmers the certainty to do their jobs, help biodiesel production grow, and enable farmers to export their products around the world. Working together in a bipartisan way, we can accomplish these goals to support our farms, families, and our country.”
“Senator Heitkamp is a great example of why this week in Washington is such an important one for soybean farmers,” added Erickson. “She grew up in a rural community and throughout her career she has sought farmer insight and input through meetings like the ones we’re having here with week to make sure she represents North Dakotans in the best way possible. Senator Heitkamp quickly made her voice known on the Senate Committee on Agriculture as she helped craft a bipartisan Farm Bill. And she has remained a staunch advocate for our farmers through her work pushing for a strong Renewable Fuel Standard and her efforts to change the Waters of the U.S. rule. Those efforts make a difference for our farmers and families throughout the U.S., and with this award we aim to show our support and gratitude for her work.”
ASA will continue to meet with lawmakers and administration officials in D.C. through Wednesday.