In the fertile fields of Jackson County, Arkansas, where three generations of one family have tilled the soil with hope, commitment, and heart, stands Derek Haigwood — a third-generation soybean farmer with a story that resonates far beyond his farm gates.
While many farmers work from sunrise to sunset to feed their communities, Derek goes several steps further. Not only does he feed, he speaks. Not only does he sow, he represents. As a director on the United Soybean Board (USB) and a member of the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), he’s become the face of American soybeans across the world.
Taking U.S. Soy to the World Stage
Imagine traveling thousands of miles to talk about something as humble as a soybean. Derek Haigwood has done it — proudly. Representing the U.S. soy industry in countries like China and regions like the European Union, Derek carries more than just facts and figures. He brings stories. Photos of his children in the soybean fields. Videos of his family eating dinner, their plates filled with meat from animals fed GMO soy. His message? That U.S. soy is safe, sustainable, and deeply personal.
“We’re not dumping GMOs on other countries,” Derek says. “We feed them to our own families first.”
This human touch is powerful. And it’s working.
Why U.S. Soybeans Are Different
When Derek meets trade officials, nutritionists, and business leaders, he’s not just promoting a product — he’s promoting a philosophy. Backed by research funded through soy checkoff dollars, he explains that U.S. soybeans are:
Scientifically superior in amino acid profile and digestibility
Sustainably produced, thanks to programs like the Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP)
Innovative, with uses ranging from high-oleic oils to soy-based foam in Ford car seats
“It’s not just about climate and soil,” Derek explains, “It’s about the management, the dedication, and the science.”
Stewardship: A Generational Duty
The Haigwood family doesn’t just grow soybeans — they protect the land that grows them.
Standing in the cab of his tractor in early April, Derek reflects on the practices that started with his grandfather and father:On my right, there’s a riparian buffer planted 26 years ago. It filters runoff before it reaches the creek. I plant cover crops in winter to keep the soil alive and healthy.”
For Derek, stewardship is more than a word — it’s a sacred family tradition. “I’ve inherited this land through the blood, sweat, and tears of my grandfather and father. And if my sons choose to farm, the land they inherit will be better than what I received.”
A Voice Beyond the Fields
To increase visibility and trust, Derek invites journalists and video crews to document life on his farm. His openness is intentional. He wants the world to see that behind every soybean is a story — and behind every farmer is a family.
“We’ve got extremely productive land,” he says. “We can grow more than our people need and provide food to people who don’t have our resources.”
Whether in Brussels, Beijing, or back home in Arkansas, Derek speaks with authenticity — the kind that can’t be faked.
Watch Derek speak here: YouTube Video
Leadership Runs in the Family
Derek’s journey into leadership wasn’t by chance — it was inspired by his father, who promoted rice through Riceland Foods and served on the state board.
“He’s been on the school board for over 20 years,” Derek says. “He taught me that no one is better suited to handle checkoff dollars than someone who believes in the industry.”
Today, Derek takes that legacy forward, treating his USB responsibilities with deep respect:
“I don’t just spend money — I’m investing my neighbors’ trust. And I want to leave a mark on this industry, just like my father and grandfather.”
❤️ More Than a Job — It’s a Way of Life
For Derek, soy farming is not just about yield, sales, or exports. It’s about generational pride, environmental stewardship, and a belief that American farmers can play a critical role in feeding the world.
“This land puts food on my table and my family’s tables. It’s not just sales to us — it’s life.”
Final Thoughts
Derek Haigwood’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every product, behind every export statistic, is a human being. A farmer. A father. A steward. A storyteller.
In a world increasingly disconnected from where food comes from, voices like Derek’s are not just helpful — they are essential.