Looking back on three decades of U.S. grain  - 2009-11-20

In his final days at the helm of the U.S. Grains Council, President and CEO Ken Hobbie took a moment to reflect on his nearly 34 years with the organization representing U.S. corn, barley and sorghum producers, including 19 years in the leading role.

With the evolution of farming technology over the last 33 years, Hobbie witnessed firsthand the progress U.S. farmers made to become more efficient and innovative with their land, noting it as one of the most significant changes he saw during his time with the Council.

“The productivity U.S. farmers developed in the production of feed grains has been incredible,” he said. With the increased productivity of U.S. farmers, Hobbie and the Council recognized the continued need to develop markets, working around the world and around the clock to open doors to U.S. products.

“The dedicated agricultural leaders, Council members, government officials, overseas customers and agricultural press that have been so passionate about making a difference in global agriculture have truly been the key motivator for my work with the Council,” said Hobbie. “There is always a new challenge, that when dealt with properly, will ultimately lead to a benefit for U.S. feed grains producers.”

One of the biggest challenges the Council faced Hobbie recalls as one of the biggest successes for U.S. producers.

“Looking back, after the loss of Western Europe and the Soviet Union as the strongest markets for U.S. feed grains, market forces changed quickly, almost overnight. This created the opportunity for the rise of developing markets, creating an even larger demand for U.S. feed grains.”

As Hobbie departs the Council, he sees one of the greatest opportunities for U.S. feed grains and their co-products in China. “The successful integration of China into the world market will present U.S. producers with the opportunity to become a significant supplier of corn, barley, sorghum and their co-products,” said Hobbie.

USGC Chairman Rick Fruth said, “As Ken moves on from the Council, there is no doubt the positive impact he had on the global market for U.S. feed grains will continue to be felt for decades to come.”