During the 110th South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention on December 11, 2025, South Dakota’s commitment to agriculture and community was on full display. Wayne Soren, a third-generation farmer from Kingsbury County, was celebrated as the 2025 Ag Ambassador. This honor underscores his vital contributions to agriculture and his dedication to promoting the welfare of South Dakota’s farming communities.
“Wayne is the epitome of a leader in agriculture,” said Doug Sombke, President of the South Dakota Farmers Union. “I’ve known Wayne since the early days when we were both young farmers trying to make it during the Farm Crisis. He is active not only in the Farmers Union but also in his church and community.”
South Dakota’s agricultural resilience is reflected in individuals like Soren, whose involvement with the Farmers Union began during the challenging Farm Crisis. His steadfast belief in cooperative principles and family farming has defined his contributions over the years.
Soren’s agricultural advocacy extended beyond his local community. He has traveled repeatedly to Washington, D.C., joining the National Farmers Union Fly-In to champion policies supportive of South Dakota farmers. A significant part of his advocacy included serving on the policy committee, where he was instrumental in framing discussions around trade tariffs and drought relief.
Soren’s tenure in leadership was marked by substantive contributions to South Dakota agriculture. Elected to the board of directors in 1999, he ascended to the role of Vice President in 2010. His leadership saw the organization through numerous challenges, including the cattle crisis, environmental adversities such as floods, and pivotal policy developments.
Under Soren’s guidance, the Farmers Union supported groundbreaking projects like ethanol expansion and the South Dakota Wind Partners investment. These initiatives not only bolstered the state’s economic prospects but also showcased South Dakota’s progressive approach to renewable energy.
Soren’s family was recognized as Farmers Union Farm Family of the Year in the 1990s, highlighting their deep-rooted commitment to community and educational excellence. This tradition continued with his sons, Jason and Ryan, who actively participated in Farmers Union educational programs.
Reflecting on his career, Soren credits his Grandpa Chester for inspiring him to pursue farming. Chester’s support, both financial and advisory, was pivotal as Soren transitioned from a city upbringing to farming full time in South Dakota. This generational bond and shared wisdom underscore the community-focused ethos prevalent among South Dakota farmers.
In a bold move against traditional expectations, Soren was one of the first in Kingsbury County to grow soybeans. Despite initial setbacks due to natural disasters, his perseverance resulted in successful yields, pioneering new agricultural practices in the county.
Beyond farming, Soren is a staunch advocate for the cooperative business model, working actively with his local cooperative, Prairie Ag Partners. His contributions include donating educational materials about cooperatives to local schools and libraries, fostering a new generation of informed and engaged citizens.
As South Dakota looks toward the future, leaders like Wayne Soren remain crucial in ensuring the continued prosperity and sustainability of its agricultural industry. Through advocacy, education, and community service, Soren embodies the spirit of South Dakota’s agricultural history and future.
For more information on South Dakota Farmers Union’s efforts to support family farmers and ranchers, please visit www.sdfu.org.