The U.S. Grains Council recently recognized Nathan Boardman for 40 years of service with the U.S. Grains Council.
Boardman was a pioneer in developing and producing hybrid grain sorghum seeds. He first joined the council as a representative of the American Seed Trade Association and later he represented Boardman Enterprises.
When he first joined the council there were about 25 major seed companies that were members.
"It was an advantage to me as a young man to serve in that capacity, and I have continued to do it for 40 years," Boardman said.
The Council recognized Boardman during the organization’s 59th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in Cincinnati, Ohio. In turn, he recognizes the Council’s work to bring together farmers and agribusinesses.
“The council’s activities have enabled a lot of stakeholders in the agricultural industry,” Boardman said. “The council also gives farmers an opportunity to become more vested in what they do and the products that are produced.”
Boardman began his career in 1962 at a small sorghum seed company in Crosbyton, Texas. At the time, hybrid seed technology was new. Boardman developed a program using cotton as an isolation from contaminant pollen. This system provided low incidence from undesirable pollen and increased the rate of crop success. Boardman has dedicated his career to enhancing crop production by developing these types of systems and helping solve production issues.
Boardman watched the council evolve and stand by its mission of developing markets, enabling trade and improving lives.
“The council studies issues in global trade and works to help resolve them to keep the trade door open,” Boardman said. “Without this work, I am not sure if the export market achievements would be that great.”