Recently I had the opportunity to provide editorial coverage of the American Soybean Association Action Partnership (ASAAP). The ASAAP was started in 2011 to create a new level of communication, commitment and partnership between stakeholders for building a stronger, more secure soybean industry.
This year's meeting was held in Anchorage, Alaska. Participants were able to learn about Alaska's agriculture industry, the energy industry and climate.
Kara Moriarty, president of the Alaska Oil and Gas Association, talked about energy and its important role. Benjamin Brown, senior research associate, at the University of Missouri, updated the group on the impact of climate on basis. Participants heard from Alaska Farm Bureau President Scott Mugrage regarding the challenges and opportunities of farming in Alaska.
“I have mountain ranges on three sides of my farm,” said Mugrage, Alaska Farm Bureau President. “It’s a Hallmark moment every day.”
ASAAP members had the opportunity to experience first-hand the impact of critical issues from climate to energy on the Arctic. During a boat excursion to one of Alaska’s many glaciers, members learned about Alaska’s vast wilderness and how the global impact of a changing Arctic presents challenges and opportunities.
“We like to say we were [Environmental Social and Governance] ESG before ESG was cool,” Moriarty told the group. “Stopping domestic oil production doesn’t stop fossil fuel use. It shifts it to other parts of the world - Areas that aren’t as focused on the environment.”
ASAAP is a collaborative effort of all soybean industry sectors with a stake in the growth and profitability of the industry. The forum allows ASA’s state affiliates, state and national checkoff organizations, industry partners and national grower-leaders to engage in critical industry-focused dialogue.
