By Blake Jackson
On June 4, Missouri Soybeans welcomed farmers, emergency responders, and ag industry professionals to the Farm for Soy Innovation for its Grain Smart Field Day.
The event focused on improving grain bin safety, introducing life-saving technologies, and promoting smarter grain management to enhance farm profitability.
Sponsored by Ag Growth International (AGI), the event featured live demonstrations and interactive sessions aimed at improving grain storage practices. AGI representatives highlighted the BinManager system and other innovative grain handling tools designed to boost efficiency and safety on the farm.
A key highlight of the day was a live grain entrapment rescue simulation, conducted by the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) in collaboration with Nationwide.
Using a mobile grain bin simulator, participants observed firsthand how fast grain entrapment can occur and how critical proper rescue equipment is in saving lives.
Another important demonstration showcased SoyFoam, a PFAS-free firefighting foam developed by Cross Plains Solutions. Created from soybeans grown in the U.S., SoyFoam is a biodegradable and safer alternative to conventional chemical-based foams.
“Technology makes our job easier, safer and more efficient,” said Gale Blomenkamp, support services bureau director with the Boone County Fire Protection District. “If we can reduce that risk by using PFAS-free foam like SoyFoam, it’s better for our firefighters, better for our community and better for the environment.”
Missouri Soybeans also donated grain bin rescue tubes to the fire departments in East Prairie and Martinsburg, expanding access to life-saving equipment. These departments join more than 390 others that have benefited from Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety campaign since 2014.
“It only takes seconds-or a simple mistake-for someone to sink in the quicksand-like flow of grain and become fully entrapped or engulfed,” said Brad Liggett, president of agribusiness at Nationwide.
Reflecting on the importance of safety, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council board member Kyle Durham shared, “This experience really drove home the fact that every time you enter a bin, you have to be aware, have a safety plan, and have someone else on site with you.”
Missouri Soybeans remains committed to investing in rural safety and innovative tools that protect farmers and their communities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-romaset
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Soybeans, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety