Every growing season brings new opportunities – and new uncertainties
Iowa State University Crop Marketing Specialist Chad Hart shares his outlook on today’s agricultural economy
At this year’s annual Dealer Kickoff, Dr. Hart gave an overview of the current corn and soybean markets, highlighting the factors shaping prices and profitability as farmers prepare for another growing season. While grain supplies remain strong, he noted that demand from exports, ethanol, soybean crush and renewable diesel continues to play an important role in supporting the market.
His message was clear: agriculture continues to evolve, and understanding the economic landscape is an important part of making informed decisions on the farm.
Hart also discussed current market trends, crop conditions and price projections, encouraging growers to keep a close eye on changing market conditions while planning for the future. As always, local conditions, management decisions and long-term planning remain key to making the most of every season.
Latham was honored to welcome Dr. Hart to Dealer Kickoff as he prepares for his upcoming retirement from Iowa State University. Throughout his career, he has helped countless farmers and agricultural professionals better understand the markets through research, education and practical insights.
Latham Seeds Unveils Next Generation K-Class™ Soybeans for 2027
New Lineup combines elite yield potential, Ironclad® defense and genetics tailored for Latham Country
Alexander, Iowa — July 30, 2026 —Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is raising the bar for soybean performance with the introduction of its new K-Class™ soybean lineup for the 2027 growing season.
Featuring 16 new soybean products, the K-Class lineup represents the next generation of Latham soybean genetics — combining exceptional yield potential with the strong defensive traits farmers need to perform across the diverse growing conditions of Latham Country. Five of the K-Class soybeans carry the Ironclad® designation, giving farmers added confidence through a package of defensive characteristics designed to help protect yield potential from planting through harvest.
“I’m especially excited about our 2027 lineup,” said third-generation seedsman John Latham. “Our new K-Class soybean products combine outstanding yield potential with strong defensive traits. It’s the strongest soybean portfolio we’ve ever offered to Latham customers.”
Built for today’s production challenges, K-Class soybeans deliver more than high yields. They’re tailor-made for the environments where Latham customers farm, combining offensive performance with the agronomic strength needed to help growers rest easy throughout the season.
Among the new lineup, Latham is especially excited about three standout K-Class varieties:
L 1912 E3 is a new superstar that delivers outstanding yield potential with solid iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) tolerance. This standout features the Rps 3a gene for Phytophthora root rot resistance and a defensive package that includes BSR, SDS and soybean white mold tolerance.
L 2048 E3 has excellent stress tolerance and strong sudden death syndrome (SDS) protection. With lineage tracing back to proven performer L 1558 E3, this medium-tall variety delivers broad adaptability and is especially well suited for north central Iowa.
L 2181 E3 offers exceptional yield potential backed by the Peking source of soybean cyst nematode (SCN) resistance, along with strong SDS and soybean white mold tolerance. Its attractive plant style, defensive characteristics and outstanding Iowa performance make it another exciting addition to the 2027 lineup.
“Every season presents new challenges,” Latham said. “Our goal is to continue bringing farmers the genetics that help them succeed, regardless of what the growing season delivers.”
For more information about the 2027 K-Class soybean lineup or to find a Latham Seeds dealer near you, visit www.lathamseeds.com.
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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.
Amy Rohe Named General Manager of Latham Seeds, Marking New Chapter in 80-Year Legacy
Alexander, Iowa – Latham Hi-Tech Seeds has announced the promotion of Amy Rohe to General Manager, positioning the company for continued growth as it approaches its 80th anniversary.
Rohe will work alongside brothers John Latham and Chris Latham to help guide the independent seed company into its next chapter—building on a legacy rooted in independence, innovation and a deep commitment to farmers.
Rohe brings more than a decade of leadership experience at Latham, having joined the company in 2010 and most recently serving as Sales Manager. During her tenure, she has played a key role in strengthening Latham’s dealer network, supporting sustained growth and fostering a culture centered on teamwork, relationships and performance.
“Amy has been instrumental in shaping our sales strategy and building strong relationships across our footprint,” said John Latham. “She understands our customers, our dealers and our values. Her leadership will help carry Latham forward while staying true to what has made us successful for nearly 80 years.”
Rohe’s promotion reflects not only her leadership within the organization, but also the growing role of women in agriculture. At Latham, women continue to play a vital role in driving innovation, strengthening communities and supporting farmers across the industry.
“Agriculture is built on relationships, resilience and a shared commitment to helping farmers succeed,” said Rohe. “I’m honored to step into this role and continue working alongside our team, our dealers and our customers to build on the strong foundation Latham has already established.”
As Latham prepares to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2027, the company remains focused on delivering high-performing products, expanding genetic diversity and maintaining its independence in an increasingly consolidated industry.
“This is an exciting time for Latham,” said Chris Latham. “Amy’s leadership, combined with our team’s experience and our commitment to staying independent, positions us well for the future.”
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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.
Meet Our New RSM For West Central Minnesota: Daniel Williamson
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is excited to welcome Daniel Williamson as the new regional sales manager for west central Minnesota, bringing with him deep agricultural roots and a wide range of hands-on experience.
Daniel grew up on a small farm near Spicer, Minnesota, where his family raised certified organic seed soybeans, corn, oats, barley and alfalfa hay. They also managed a flock of sheep, raising and selling feeder lambs. Agriculture has long been a family affair.
His father, Donnel, is a farmer and township clerk in Irving Township, while his mother, Christa, is a high school agriculture teacher at KMS High School. Daniel said growing up in that environment shaped his passion for farming and leadership.
“I grew up on a small farm near Spicer, MN,” Daniel said. “We raised certified organic seed soybeans, corn, oats, barley, and alfalfa hay. We also have a herd of sheep that we raise and sell feeder lambs from.”
Daniel attended South Dakota State University, earning a degree in agronomy with a minor in precision agriculture. He also spent two and a half years working at a cooperative as a crop advisor, gaining experience working directly with growers and their operations.
“I attended South Dakota State University for Agronomy with a minor in Precision Agriculture,” he said. “I also spent two and a half years working at a coop as a crop advisor.”
Beyond crop production, Daniel’s background includes experience with livestock operations, working with beef cattle and hogs. While in college, he also worked part time for SGS, assisting with seed planting for germination testing.
Leadership and service played a major role in Daniel’s youth. He was actively involved in FFA and 4-H, serving as a regional officer and earning his American FFA Degree.
“I was very involved in FFA and 4-H growing up,” Daniel said. “I had served as a region officer and have obtained my American degree.”
Daniel said his interest in Latham Hi-Tech Seeds grew as he learned more about the company’s values and approach.
“I wasn’t to familiar with Latham but became interested the more I looked into them,” he said. “I was attracted to Latham because they are a family run company and talk with their farmers and sales staff to see what is missing from our seed portfolio and what can be improved.”
As regional sales manager, Daniel is focused on building strong relationships with dealers and supporting their success.
“I am looking forward to meeting and working with our dealers and helping them grow their business,” he said.
Outside of work, Daniel enjoys ice fishing, deer hunting and turkey hunting, staying connected to the outdoors and the land that shaped his agricultural journey.
Welcome to the Latham family, Daniel! We’re excited to see how your strong agricultural roots and agronomy education will support farmers and dealers across west central Minnesota.
Strength in Community: One Latham Dealer’s Story of Resilience and Support
In the summer of 2025, Latham® dealer Jason Youngkrantz faced a health challenge that stopped him in his tracks. After experiencing persistent chest pain, vision changes and unstable blood pressure, Jason was rushed to the ER, where doctors discovered a large mass in his chest and neck. Medical testing confirmed it was a schwannoma, a rare but non-cancerous tumor pressing against major arteries and affecting his daily life.
The tumor made even simple tasks — walking, holding his daughter or working on the farm — difficult, and doctors estimated Jason would be out of work for months as he pursued treatment. The physical strain was only one part of the challenge; the family also faced mounting medical bills, travel costs and financial pressure that came with extended time away from work.
To support Jason and his family during this difficult season, friends and neighbors organized a GoFundMe campaign, meals, childcare help and chores — easing day-to-day burdens so the family could focus on healing. The community’s generosity brought encouragement and strength when it was needed most.
Before this health crisis, Jason was a familiar face across western Minnesota farmland. A third-generation grower from Lake Lillian, he learned the values of hard work and rural community from his father, uncles and grandfather. As soon as he was old enough to drive, Jason was hauling corn and sugar beets — early experiences that shaped his lifelong commitment to agriculture.
He and his wife have built a small hobby farm where they’re raising their children, Hunter and Parker, with hopes of growing their operation over time. His family’s roots in farming extend back four generations with Youngkrantz Family Farms, founded by his great-grandfather Carl and later led by his grandfather Earl.
Jason first connected with Latham Seeds through social media and became a dealer to expand his agronomic knowledge and serve the growers in his community.
“The chance to learn more about seed products and support local farmers was really exciting to me,” he says.
From the beginning, Jason felt welcomed by the Latham team.
“It has been incredibly welcoming,” he says. “Having (Sales Manager Amy Rohe) and my former seed representative visit my home to help me get started showed me firsthand the supportive culture Latham strives for.”
When Jason was unable to visit customers due to his health, the Latham team stepped in. Dealer Development Lead Bryan Rohe helped by visiting customers on Jason’s behalf — a gesture that meant the world to him.
“It has meant everything,” Jason says. “Their willingness to help shows how much they go above and beyond for their dealers.”
On December 10, 2025, Jason underwent a successful surgery to remove the tumor through a single incision, avoiding more invasive procedures and giving him a hopeful path forward.
As he continues to recover, Jason looks forward to returning to the farm and reconnecting with customers.
“I’m excited to get back to the work I love,” he says.
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is proud to support Jason Youngkrantz through challenges and triumphs. We celebrate his courage and the strength of his community.
Faith, Family and Farming: The Strength Behind the Hemann Family
Growing up as one of 14 kids on a busy dairy and crop farm, there was never a dull moment for longtime Latham® Dealer and farmer AndrewHemann. From helping with chores to working the fields alongside his dad and brother, farming wasn’t just a job; it was a way of life.
“In 1988, my brother and I took over the family farm,” Andrew says. “A couple of years later, in 1990, I got married and moved onto the farm. We kept the dairy going for many years until 2010, when I decided to sell the herd and focus on crop farming.”
Since then, Andrew has continued to farm side by side with his brother, keeping the family tradition strong. Their operation has grown right along with their family — four children and five grandchildren who all love spending time on the farm.
In 2013, Andrew joined the Latham Hi-Tech Seeds family.
“It’s been a great fit,” he says. “I love being able to share what I’ve learned over the years and help other farmers find success with their crops.”
That commitment to helping others took on new meaning in March 2024 when the Hemann family faced one of their toughest challenges. Their grandson, Sebastian Burke, was diagnosed with B-cell Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia at just three and a half years old.
“The first two weeks after his diagnosis were incredibly tough — intense inpatient treatments, constant emotions, and so many unknowns,” Andrew recalls. “When he came home, his parents became full-time caregivers. We all stepped in to help however we could — watching the siblings, helping with medicine and celebrating every milestone.”
Sebastian’s courage has inspired everyone around him. Through Make-A-Wish® Iowa, he received a backyard playset and sandbox — a gift that brought smiles to the whole family. He was also honored by the Wartburg track team during their cancer awareness meet, another reminder of the love and support surrounding them.
Now in the final maintenance phase of treatment, Sebastian is thriving in kindergarten and loves his Saturday bowling outings.
“We’re so proud of how far he’s come,” Andrew says. “We continue to pray for a healthy, smooth finish to his treatment.”
Through it all, faith, family and community have kept the Hemann family strong.
“The love and kindness shown by friends, family and even strangers have carried us,” Andrew says. “We’re so grateful and hopeful for what’s ahead.”
Andrew credits those same values — honesty, integrity and community — as the reason Latham Seeds feels like home.
“My (regional sales managers) have always been there for me,” Andrew says. “It’s not just about selling seed. It’s about relationships, trust and helping each other succeed.”
As another season approaches, Andrew is thankful for the chance to keep doing what he loves.
“Every year brings challenges,” he says. “But with faith and family, you can weather anything. Tough times will come. Just take it one day at a time and never stop believing brighter days are ahead.”
Chocolate Chip Bar Cookies
(and yes, I am the one who makes these, not my wife)
Deep Roots, Bright Future: Welcoming Dealer Ryan Knobbe
For as long as he can remember, farming has been at the center of Ryan Knobbe’s life. Growing up on his family’s diversified operation, he spent his days around cattle, corn, soybeans and alfalfa — and watching his dad run a custom spraying business. Those early experiences shaped not just his work ethic, but his appreciation for the relationships and responsibilities that come with agriculture.
“I’ve been around farming ever since I could walk,” Ryan says. “It’s always been my main priority.”
After graduating from Kuemper Catholic School, where he was active in FFA and football, Ryan attended DMACC in Ankeny before returning home to build his future. Today, he and his wife, Taylor, are preparing to welcome their first child at the beginning of the new year — the start of a new chapter for their growing family.
Family is also a big part of Ryan’s work life. One of five siblings, he now partners with his youngest brother, Ross, as a Latham dealer.
“Working with my brother and watching us grow something we started from the ground up means a lot,” he says.
Ryan’s connection to Latham Seeds goes back to childhood.
“I’ve honestly known about Latham since I was a kid,” he said. “When (a Latham RSM) called and asked if I’d be interested in becoming a dealer, it just felt right.”
What stood out most was the culture that feels more like family than corporate.
“The family atmosphere with Latham is what attracted me,” Ryan says. “I’ve never heard a negative thing about them. It’s not big corporate, and that really stood out to me.”
When he’s not helping farmers find the right products for their acres, Ryan enjoys spending time with family and friends or relaxing on the golf course. But whether he’s on the farm or off it, his passion for helping growers succeed remains constant.
“Working with other farmers makes it easy to start conversations because we share the same challenges and goals,” he says. “At the end of the day, it’s about relationships and helping each other grow.”
As Ryan and Ross continue building their seed business, they’re doing more than offering hybrids and varieties. They’re carrying forward the values their family has lived by for generations: hard work, commitment and the belief that farming is stronger when you grow together.
Meet Jodi Lundt: Bringing Experience and Enthusiasm to Latham Hi-Tech Seeds
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is excited to welcome Jodi Lundt as the newest member of our accounting team. Jodi joins us as our accounts payable specialist, bringing more than a decade of experience in agriculture and a passion for helping others.
Born and raised in Mason City, Jodi grew up as the youngest of three children. Her roots run deep in North Iowa, where family has always been a big part of her story.
“My dad is one of 16 kids and my mom was an only child,” Jodi says. “So, family gatherings were always a mix of big and small!”
An active athlete growing up, Jodi played volleyball and softball through high school and graduated from Newman Catholic High School. Today, she and her husband Doug live on a farm southeast of Rockwell, where they’re raising their two children, Kaylie and Cash. The Lundts stay busy on weekends, traveling to cattle shows or sports tournaments. Their farm is also home to two corgis, Ty and Trixie, who Jodi says are “definitely spoiled.”
“Both of our kids are involved in showing cattle and love sports,” Jodi says. “We have a few cows, along with their show cattle, so there’s always something going on.”
Although Jodi didn’t grow up in agriculture, she quickly found a love for the industry after meeting her husband.
“I honestly had no ag background until I met Doug, who farms,” she says. “After a few years together, I started working at Five Star Cooperative in the agronomy department.”
During her 12 years there, Jodi learned the ins and outs of fertilizer, chemicals and seed — and discovered her favorite part of the job was building relationships with growers, saying she loves getting to work with farmers and learning from them.
Outside of work, Jodi enjoys spending time outdoors, especially when it involves the beach. She also loves traveling, side-by-side rides with family and friends, reading and relaxing with a good Netflix series.
When asked what drew her to Latham Seeds, Jodi says it was the company’s reputation and culture.
“I had heard good things after a friend of mine started working here. I was super excited to join a family-owned business where you’re more than just a number.”
Now, Jodi looks forward to expanding her skill set in a new role.
“I’ve always worked on the other side of things — doing billing and accounts receivable,” Jodi says. “I’m excited to learn more about accounts payable and keep growing.”
Please join us in welcoming Jodi Lundt to the Latham Seeds family!
Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This is a perfect replica of the original, with a tender meat mixture and flavorful topping the family will love!
Sauté the diced peppers and onions in a small pan with the olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. This gives them a more subtle flavor and texture. Set aside and let cool.
Combined the whisked eggs, crushed crackers, onions, bell peppers, cheese, milk, and salt/pepper in a large bowl.
Add ground beef and mix until just combined. Don’t overwork the meat, we want tender results.
Form it in a loaf and place it into a loaf pan. Not using a loaf pan can result in the loaf falling apart. It also takes much longer to cook, which causes it to dry out.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Combine the topping ingredients while it bakes and set aside.
Remove the meatloaf and brush on the topping. Bake for an additional 30-40 minutes. (Pull it once it reaches 155 degrees.)
Let it rest for 15 minutes in the loaf pan prior to slicing in. It will increase 8-10 degrees in temperature during this time. Slicing in too early also causes the juices to leak out. Ensure the middle is 160 degrees before you slice it.
Greg Jaacks Retires After 50 Years As Latham’s ‘Boy Next Door’
The house where the Jaacks family lived next door to Willard Evelyn Latham.
Greg Jaacks was literally the boy next door. He and his three siblings – Jeff, Kim and Steve – grew up in the little house beside Willard and Evelyn Latham, who employed Greg’s dad at Latham Seeds.
Marvin had moved his family to a larger house a few miles away and rented his own ground to farm. To accommodate the growing Jaacks (pronounced “Jakes”) family, Willard offered to add on two bedrooms to the small house next to his own. That was just the incentive Marvin needed to return to Latham Seeds.
The connections run deep between the Jaacks and Latham families.
“Willard gave me my first haircut as a little boy in their basement,” Greg recalls. Willard and Evelyn’s oldest son, Bill, held baby Greg during the haircut.
Greg getting his first haircut by Willard Latham (Bill Latham is holding him).
Greg helped at Latham Seeds as needed while he was in high school. Upon graduating in May 1975, Greg took a full-time job with a local farmer. He loved everything about the job from tilling soil and baling hay to shelling corn and feeding cattle. One thing he didn’t like was the pay. Greg worked 10 hours a day, six days a week for $75 flat. He wanted his own place but needed to make more money first.
“I asked my dad if I could get on his crew at the (Latham) plant,” Greg says. “He told me I’d have to find out for myself. He said I’d better go talk to Willard.”
Greg mustered up the nerve to knock on Willard’s front door. Evelyn answered and welcomed him inside. Willard told Greg he could start work the following Monday if he got a haircut and shaved his beard — which he promptly did.
Greg’s dad, Marvin, with Bill and Don Latham. Marvin worked for 43 years at Latham Seeds.
“As long as you gave Willard what he was expecting, as long as you kept your promise and did your job, he was good to you,” Greg says.
Greg is grateful he got to work beside his dad for nearly 22 years at Latham Seeds.
“He really was my best friend,” Greg says of his dad. “It’s been a good, solid job here at Latham. When I started here, that’s what my grandpa said: Latham’s a good solid place to work.” Greg’s grandpa was a local farmer, who also worked on Marvin’s crew during the winter months.
Greg and his wife, Donna, have two daughters, Trisha and Sandy. They enjoy attending their two grandchildren’s activities and watching them play sports. In his spare time, Greg likes to fish, ride his Harley and watch NASCAR.
Ham Loaf
Greg also enjoys his mom’s Ham Loaf recipe, which reminds him of his childhood on the farm. He is sharing that cherished recipe here.
Line baking sheet with parchment paper or use loaf pan.
Pour sauce over meat and bake for 1 hour, or until the inside of loaf reaches 160.
Rest for 5 to 7 minutes before slicing.
Cook's Tip
To freeze leftovers, slice into individual portions and tightly wrap with plastic. Place in an airtight container or Ziploc® freezer bag. Leftovers can easily be made into “do-over” sandwiches.
Cranberries, Careers and Community: A Wisconsin Legacy in Action
Cranberries may be small, but in Wisconsin, they carry a big legacy. For Heidi Slinkman, a generational grower and Business Manager at Gaynor Cranberry Company, cranberries are more than a crop. They’re a calling rooted in family, heritage and community.
Roots in Cranberry Country
Heidi grew up in Wisconsin Rapids, a town tied to agriculture and papermaking. Competitive and active, she and her twin sister spent their youth in sports and leadership activities. Student Council and the Badger Girls State program sharpened her confidence, but it was her grandfather’s wisdom about travel and land stewardship that truly shaped her outlook on farming. Today, Heidi and her husband, Brian, are raising two children who keep life busy and joyful.
Wisconsin: The Heart of Cranberries
Wisconsin grows more than 60% of the U.S. cranberry crop. With sandy soils, marshlands and generations of family farms, the state is uniquely suited for cultivation. Contrary to myth, cranberries don’t grow in water. They grow on woody vines and are flooded at harvest, when ripe berries float for collection. The industry contributes nearly $1 billion annually to Wisconsin’s economy and supports over 4,000 jobs. Through Ocean Spray Cooperative, Heidi has shared her farm’s story from New York to London.
A Family Story Woven into Cranberries
The Slinkman story is inseparable from cranberries. Heidi’s great-great-grandmother, Caroline Dempze, emigrated from Germany. Widowed, she and her children worked for the Gaynor brothers, who owned a cranberry marsh. Her son Charles began there at age 10 and later took over the farm when the Gaynor’s passed without heirs. Today, that farm is Gaynor Cranberry Company.
This fall marks the family’s 149th harvest. Heidi’s parents, Gary and Susan Dempze, raised their children with the expectation that they pursue education and careers off the farm before returning. That test of passion ultimately grounded Heidi in agriculture.
From Business to “Farm HR”
Now, Heidi and her sister Jenna manage the farm alongside their parents and crew. Jenna oversees crop production, while Heidi focuses on finance, HR and property management — what she calls “Farm HR.” Together, they lead eight full-time employees while carrying forward a culture of innovation and teamwork.
Beyond the farm, Heidi co-founded Cranberry Learning, Inc., a nonprofit creating STEAM-based resources for K–12 classrooms.
“We want students to see agriculture not just as farming, but as a world of opportunity,” Heidi says.
Looking Ahead
For Heidi, farming is about resilience and community. Whether mentoring students, advocating for agriculture, or supporting women’s soccer, she embodies stewardship.
Her message is simple: “Eat more cranberries and consider a Cran Career. Agriculture needs the next generation of leaders, which she calls “Ag-Force.”
