South Dakota Grower Succeeds with Non GMO Soybeans

By Scout Nelson

A soybean farmer in South Dakota shows how growing non-GMO soybeans can bring higher value when markets are close to home. Farming near Miller, South Dakota, JD Wangsness plants non-GMO soybeans close to a specialty processing plant that crushes these crops for domestic use.

Wangsness has added non-GMO soybeans into his crop rotation over the past five to six years. He explains that location matters because nearby processing reduces shipping needs and helps farmers reach stable markets. “So, I've integrated and worked into my rotation of non-GMO soybeans over the last five to six years,” Wangsness explained, in an interview with the South Dakota Soybean Network.

In the fall of 2025, he harvests about one thousand acres of non-GMO soybeans. He says these soybeans perform better than some genetically modified varieties he also plants. Wangsness credits strong soil care and careful field management for these results.

“Part of that is attributed to how I'm taking care of the soils and how weed management is a big issue with non-GMOs. But right now, there's a demand,” said Wangsness. “That's a product that's getting used right here in the United States. We don't have to worry about shipping it out to China or wherever to try and find our markets. And there's a really good premium on those soybeans right now.”

To control weeds, Wangsness uses a strong weed control program. He applies more herbicides on non-GMO soybeans, including fall treatments to control winter weeds and prepare clean fields for spring planting. He notes that weeds like waterhemp appear in both GMO and non-GMO soybeans.

“But if you have a nice robust program for your weed control, you can have pretty good success,” he said.

Wangsness also focuses on crop rotation to manage herbicide resistance. He does not plant non-GMO soybeans every year. Instead, he rotates crops with different traits and chemical tools.

“But there's ways to work around resistance issues if you work well with your agronomist and have a good plan for it,” said Wangsness.

Because of strong results and good prices, Wangsness plans to plant another one thousand acres of non-GMO soybeans next season, showing how careful planning can help farmers meet demand and earn better returns.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski