The New York Corn and Soybean Growers Association (NYCSGA) is excited to introduce a limited series highlighting the future of soybean farming, featuring young growers from across New York State.
Grace Hoffman, a first-year college student with a passion for agriculture and a promising future in the industry, is the first interview in our series. Grace hails from Lima, New York, and is currently transitioning from Alfred State to SUNY Canton, where she is pursuing a degree in agribusiness.
Growing up in a farming family, Grace’s interest in agriculture was cultivated from a young age. Her father runs a soybean and bean mill operation, and the family has been farming soybeans since the 1990s. They currently manage around 2,000 acres, with 650 acres dedicated to soybeans alongside corn, light red kidney beans, and wheat.
Working alongside her father fostered an appreciation for the land. Grace’s decision to study agribusiness was driven by her deep-rooted interest in farming and her desire to understand the business side of agriculture. Her coursework includes a mix of marketing, economics, and practical farm management.
Though Grace has just completed her first year, she is already thinking ahead about how to apply her knowledge on the farm.
While Grace isn’t certain if she’ll return to work on the family farm full-time or explore other opportunities within the agribusiness sector, she is considering taking on the business side of her father’s bean mill. She notes that working in the bean mill would involve demanding hours similar to farm work, often requiring early mornings and long days.
Technology plays a crucial role in modern farming, and Grace’s family farm is no exception. This integration of technology helps optimize efficiency and productivity on the farm.
The Hoffman family utilizes advanced tech in their tractors, including auto guidance systems. They’ve also incorporated apps and software like FieldView. FieldView is a software tool that captures and transmits data from the field to the office in real time. It provides instant results, making it easy to compare performance and measure every seed, treatment, practice, or acre, helping farmers gain a deeper understanding of their operations.
Environmental sustainability is a key concern for Grace and her family. They have implemented drainage tile systems to remove excess water from soil. These systems have helped to manage water levels in the soil, preventing waterlogging and improving crop growth conditions.
The drainage tile also helps to prevent soil erosion and runoff, ensuring that nutrients stay in the soil rather than polluting nearby streams. The Hoffman family see this practice as vital for maintaining healthy crops and protecting the environment.
Grace is particularly fascinated by the diverse uses of soybeans beyond just food products. For instance, soybean oil is used in manufacturing processes, such as producing panels for combines. This versatility of soybeans underscores their importance in various industries.
Grace is excited about the future of soybean farming, particularly the potential for higher yields and advancements in ag-tech. She envisions a future where autonomous tractors and other innovations become commonplace, further revolutionizing the industry.
Despite the challenges, Grace finds joy in the everyday tasks on the farm. One of her favorite chores is washing tractors, as it allows her to work independently and take pride in her work. Her dedication and passion for farming are evident, making her a promising figure in the next generation of soybean growers.
Grace Hoffman represents the blend of tradition and innovation that defines modern agriculture. Her story is a testament to the enduring appeal of farming and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for soybean growers.
Stay tuned as we continue to introduce more young farmers who are shaping the future of the industry.