One of the largest county fairs in the country, bigger than many other states’ state fairs, will be featuring soybeans and one of our favorite soybean products, biodiesel. The Clay County Fair in Spencer, Iowa will have “Iowa Soybean Day” on Monday, Sept. 9, sponsored by the Iowa Soybean Association.

The ISA Clay County Fair exhibit will be located in Central Park and feature an “Ultimate Performance” sweepstakes. People who received scratch-off sweepstakes cards can redeem their prize at the ISA booth and learn more about the benefits of using biodiesel. Card prizes must be redeemed in person. In addition, staff from ISA’s On-Farm Network® will be present to discuss research, environmental practices to protect soil and water and the latest in aerial scouting. Visitors to the ISA exhibit can register to win $500 in biodiesel or an aerial scouting package and view a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze light-duty diesel passenger car approved for use with 20 percent biodiesel blends (B20).

“Using biodiesel is a win-win for all Iowans, but especially our farmers,” explains Randy Olson, IBB executive director. “It’s developed from agricultural resources, like soybean oil, so it empowers farmers to participate in the energy market and supports their own industry.”

Iowa leads the nation in soybean and biodiesel production … not just a happy coincidence. IBB officials point out that the use of biodiesel also supports the state’s livestock industry.