Betaseed: Optimize each seed you plant with our research-driven, high performing sugarbeet seeds

Betaseed, one of the nation’s leading Sugarbeet seed producers, announced changes to their sales team as a result of recent retirements and promotions. These changes will support Betaseed’s top-notch service to their sugarbeet growers

Blake Buck became the new Betaseed Key Account Manager for our Minn-Dak (MDFC), Southern Minn (SMBSC), and Lantic regions on May 19th, replacing Cody Lehman, who retired on July 1st after nearly 28 years with the organization. Blake holds a B.S. degree in General Agriculture from North Dakota State University and spent 14 years at MDFC as an Agriculturalist prior to this role. Blake resides in Wahpeton, North Dakota.

John Samdahl was promoted to Betaseed Regional Sales Manager for the American Crystal (ACSC) region on July 1st, replacing Lynn Dusek who has accepted a new role as General Agronomist for KWS. John holds a B.S. degree in Crop & Weed Science from North Dakota State University and has been a Betaseed Sales Manager since 2020. Prior to his time with Betaseed, John spent 14 years at ACSC as an Agriculturalist. John resides in Thompson, North Dakota.

Sydnie Shepherd was promoted to Betaseed Sales Manager for the ACSC area on July 1st. Sydnie holds a B.S. degree in Crop & Weed Science and Agribusiness from North Dakota State University and completed two internships within our organization prior to her role as a Betaseed Sales Associate in 2022. Sydnie resides in Durbin, North Dakota.

Clarke Alder will begin his new role as Betaseed Sales Manager for the Amalgamated region (Idaho, Oregon, and Washington) on July 7th, working alongside Joe Freiburger until Joe’s retirement on September 1st, when he will complete more than 21 years with the organization. Clarke holds an M.S. degree in Weed Science from Utah State University and spent 13 years at Amalgamated Sugar in their Weed Scientist (formally Research Agronomist) and Crop Consultant roles. Clarke resides in Middleton, Idaho.

“We’re very excited for the future of the Betaseed brand and look forward to welcoming new team members, as well as congratulating those who are completing their time with the organization,” Betaseed Brand Sales Leader Jason Evenson says of the management changes.

In April 2025, Betaseed awarded scholarships totaling $2,000 to Idaho FFA Scholarship recipients Arianna Wilson and Ashlyn Strunk. Wilson and Strunk were selected from a group of 54 Betaseed Scholarship applicants. Betaseed has supported FFA and its commitment to students and their potential for leadership, personal growth, and career success in agriculture and related fields for many years.
A future in agronomy
Wilson is a member of the Moscow chapter, and she plans to study Crop Science and Management at the University of Idaho this fall and intends to become an agronomist. She immersed herself in learning through FFA and agriculture education courses. She’s participated in many Career and Leadership Development events – Forestry, Parliamentary Procedure, Conduct of Chapter Meetings, Greenhand Knowledge, Farm Business Management, Employment Skills, Prepared Public Speaking, Farm Bureau Discussion Meet, and Agronomy – to name a few.
“When I was first a freshman at Moscow High School, I only joined an agriculture education class because I didn't know what other classes to take. I didn't know what FFA was or how to join,” shared Wilson. “I developed a strong passion for the agriculture industry and FFA itself. Before I was in an ag class, I wanted to have a career in criminal justice, but my adoration for this industry led me to start working at a PNW Co-op grain elevator…and ultimately decide to become an agronomist.”
Outside of FFA, Wilson enjoys helping her community through volunteering at the local nursing home, Veteran’s home, on local farms, and more.
An agricultural educator in the making
Strunk served as the Troy FFA Chapter President and North Idaho District President. She’s enjoyed developing her own leadership skills and has participated in many Career and Leadership Development Event contest teams, including Extemporaneous Speaking, Conduct of Chapter Meetings, and Parliamentary Procedure. She has attended the National FFA Convention, as well as the FFA Washington Leadership Conference in Washington DC and developed her knowledge of American history, agriculture, FFA, teamwork, and leadership. Her growth and passion for agriculture and leadership, inspired by FFA, have driven her to become an agricultural educator herself.
“It's hard to even put into words the effect that this change in mindset truly has impacted my life – I owe it all to FFA,” said Strunk. “While my greatest accomplishment might not be a million banners or first place plaques on the wall, I am so proud of my accomplishments that all happened within the FFA program.”
Outside of FFA, she is an avid volunteer and has dedicated her time as the Student Council Vice President, the Business Professionals of America Reporter, a volleyball team member, and a food drive and thrift store volunteer.
A bright future
Congratulations to Arianna Wilson and Ashlyn Strunk on earning the Betaseed Scholarship. Their dedication, leadership, and passion for agriculture ensure a bright future – not only for themselves, but for the entire industry they are helping to grow.
About Us: Betaseed is headquartered in Bloomington, Minnesota, is North America’s premier sugarbeet company. From our start in 1970, Betaseed has maintained a longstanding commitment to the beet sugar industry. Betaseed is the only sugarbeet seed brand to provide seed to all sugarbeet regions. Betaseed, Breeding Confidence. www.betaseed.com