and conservation practices. While attending board meetings in Washington, D.C., Rob was first introduced to fresh-to-the- scene carbon market programs and began conducting his own research. Since then, he’s watched programs undergo changes, he’s learned much about science-based approach- es to climate-smart farming practices, and he’s become a big fan of straightforward programs that reward farmers being good to their land. He admits that the right fit probably varies some from farmer to farmer, and un- derstanding the options avail- able in the carbon landscape is a great place to start. “In the beginning, I had more questions than answers when it came to the carbon market,” he says. “I tried to find unbi- ased resources, like Farm Jour- nal, that provide a wholistic view of the carbon landscape. But what I’ve discovered is that farmers who take the time to do the research, find a pro- gram that fits their needs and enroll will not only get paid for their practices, but they may also see improved soil quality on their farms and potentially reduce greenhouse gas emis- sions. When done right, it’s a win for the environment and it puts money back in farmers’ pockets.” He continues, “The key is to find a program that is farm- er-focused and offers simplic- ity, flexibility and certainty in creating a revenue stream for growers who implement cli- mate-smart farming practices, like strip-till, no-till and cover crops. The best programs will help you mitigate the learn- ing curve, and won’t require a large capital investment.” At the 2022 Commodity Classic in March, Rob partic- ipated in a panel discussion with the U.S. Bayer Carbon team to discuss building long- term revenue streams while protecting the land. Rob shared his own journey, transition- ing to cover crops and no-till, what benefits he’s seen since transitioning, what challenges he’s had, and what advice he would give to farmers thinking about making the transition to climate smart practices. “Rob represents a group of growers we are proud to partner with,” says Audrey Ball, Carbon Grower Pipeline Manager for the Bayer U.S. Crop Science Division. “They’re the growers in a high-yielding, soil-rich environment that are willing to try cover crops and no till or strip till and see how their operation benefits; the farmers who feel protective of their lands, and have their eyes on the future.” Continues Ball, “Our market research tells us that 85 percent of farmers are considering joining a carbon program over the next few years. What we know is that pioneering this new space is a journey best traveled with experts who can offer support and guidance, and colleagues, like Mr. Shaffer, who under- stand the process.” Though Rob may endeavor to be more like his mentors who willingly offer up their stories, their business practices, their successes and their failures, he possesses an endearingly mod- est inability to recognize himself among the group of frontrunners powering the soy industry into a sustainable, profitable tomorrow. He's the kind of leader who wouldn’t call himself a leader. He’d rather tell you a joke, ask you how you’re doing, and then really listen for the answer. Rob and his wife, Jennifer, and their sons Bobby (age 16) and Jacob (age 13). A PUBLICATION OF THE ILLINOIS SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION June 2022 29
