News

Funding for a new SCN lab included in MO ag budget

The interim CEO of the Missouri Soybean Association says the recently approved state ag budget includes funding to build a new, modernized Soybean Cyst Nematode lab at the University of Missouri.

Casey Wasser says MU is known for its expertise in SCN research and the lab is needed.

“The amount of volume going through that lab at MU has more than doubled,” says Wasser. “It’s important to them and our farmers as we continue to invest in SCN research trying to find resistant soybeans that farmers can plant to improve their yields.”

SCN is present in 85 percent of Missouri fields and is becoming more resistant.  

Wasser says state lawmakers appropriated $4 million for the project, but Missouri Ag Department’s budget for Fiscal Year 2026 is awaiting approval from Governor Mike Kehoe.