The American Soybean Association (ASA) has hired Scott Gerlt, who will be the first person to join the organization in the role of economist. Gerlt, who lives in Missouri, starts July 20 and will be based out of the ASA St. Louis office.
Gerlt is highly regarded within agricultural economist circles for his policy work at the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI), where he has more than 10 years of experience including working with policymakers in drafting the 2014 and 2018 farm bills. In addition to his direct work in economic modeling for FAPRI, Gerlt has led research teams on grant projects and teaches undergraduate courses at the University of Missouri.
“It is exciting for ASA to find someone with both Scott’s policy experience and enthusiasm for working directly with farmers," says ASA CEO Ryan Findlay. "Scott clearly believes in ASA’s mission and will be a great addition to our team."
Gerlt grew up on a diversified farm with both row crops and livestock near Latham, Missouri. His love of math, economics and agriculture has been influential in forming his career path. In his role, Gerlt will provide insight on relevant agricultural economics and analysis of current and future ASA policy. The organization expects this position will also provide clarity to what ASA is requesting of policymakers and how it may impact U.S. soybean farmers and their communities.
“Having an economist on staff will enrich our internal discussion on issues and strengthen our public arguments for why policymakers need to take action on behalf of U.S. soybean farmers," says Findlay.
The American Soybean Association (ASA) represents U.S. soybean farmers on domestic and international policy issues important to the soybean industry. ASA has 26 affiliated state associations representing 30 soybean producing states and more than 300,000 soybean farmers.
