Albert “Jody” Vander Wal is retiring on April 30, after 41 years as the one constant person in the dry edible bean department at North Dakota State University. Vander Wal started on June 15, 1981, in the new dry edible bean project led by Dr. Kenneth Grafton. He worked as a research technician and later as a research specialist. Vander Wal was actively involved in the development of more than 12 well-known dry bean varieties.
Founded in 1976, Northarvest Bean Growers Association (NBGA) represents the largest group of dry bean farmers in America, working together to fund research, promote, and produce the finest beans in the world.
NBGA works to better the dry bean industry through promotion, field & nutrition research, market development, monitoring governmental policy, advocating for greater consumer choices, and focusing on the needs of our producers.
NBGA advocates for its 2,400+ farm families across MN & ND that grow dry beans and is committed to strengthening the relationship between growers, industry partners, and consumers across the world.
