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Missouri Farms A monthly publication of the Marshall Democrat-News and The Concordian Publisher – Dave Phillips Editors Sarah Reed Concordian Rachel Knight Democrat-News Editorial Agriculture Reporter Kelly Melies Charles Dunlap Jesse Brown Calendar Bretta Gert Design Jacob Hatfield Sarah Reed News/Editorial Email MOFarmsNews@gmail.com Advertising Sales Mike Davis Stacy Kirchhoff Susan Duvall Holly Young Sarah Mueller Advertising/Sales Email MoFarmsAds@gmail.com 660-886-8198 Mailing Address Marshall Democrat-News PO Box 100 121 N. Lafayette Ave Marshall, MO 65340-0100 Office Hours 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM Monday-Friday Websites www.marshallnews.com www.theconcordianonline.com Mail Subscription Rate $25 per year
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missouri farms
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Safety on and off the farm Agriculture Safety Tips for families CHILDREN: • Don’t ask to ride along in tractors. Even though it’s fun, passengers on a tractor can interfere with safe operation of machinery. • Always get permission to visit a parent or adult while they are working on machinery, and remain in a visible area to ensure the adult sees you. Blind spots create dangerous conditions when machinery is in use. • Be cautious when handling or feeding animals, and only enter pens that have been approved by your parents. Livestock can be unpredictable. Teens: • Only use a cell phone when not working, but keep it close in case of emergency. Cell phones can be a lifesaver or a deadly distraction. • Be informed on child labor laws. Teens can only work in certain situations under legal guardians. • Be a role model and demonstrate safe behavior on the farm. Siblings and younger children look up to and take pride in older children and teenagers. PARENTS: • Keep the rollover protection structures (ROPS) in the upright position and always wear a
seatbelt to prevent a tractor rollover injury or fatality. Tractor rollovers represented nearly half of all of Illinois fatalities last year, so the ROPS should only be folded down in low-clearance areas and when absolutely necessary. • Always wear hearing protection – such as ear plugs or protective ear muffs – to protect from hearing loss. It only takes 2 hours for an open cab tractor to become dangerous to the human ear without proper hearing protection. • Schedule enough time for sleep. Lack of sleep inhibits productivity and memory, and slows response time. GRANDPARENTS: • Think about your actions. Unsafe actions don’t always result in harm, but the risk isn’t worth it. • Recognize personal health and safety to avoid injury. Take caution when lifting heavy items or climbing in unsafe areas. If something looks dangerous or unpredictable, don’t do it. • Keep a cell phone handy at all times in case of emergency. Cell phones allow for easy access when help is needed.
Be prepared for emergencies Even with all the right precautions, accidents still happen. One important rule for families who live or work on farms is family members should always be aware of where everyone is and when they are due to return so they can provide help as soon as possible in an emergency. It's also a good idea to know how to get help in the event of an emergency — by calling 911 or the local emergency number or the poison control center if necessary. When calling 911, be prepared to state exactly where you are and what the problem is — and remember to stay on the line until the operator says it's OK to hang up. Experts also recommend that all teens learn CPR and basic first aid, especially if they help to care for younger siblings or elderly relatives. Contact your local hospital or the American Red Cross for information about courses in your area.
Farm safety: Not JUST for farmers Farm safety may seem like something only teens who live on farms need to know about. The truth is that everyone can benefit from learning about farm safety, even people who are merely visiting farms. Farming is a common form of employment, providing summer jobs for lots of teens all over the country. Farm machinery, animals, chemicals and storage areas are things some teens ordinarily might not encounter — and they can pose a serious risk to people who don't know how to protect themselves. Nearly 2 million kids work and live on farms in the United States. As many as 22,000 are seriously injured, and about 100 kids and teens die each year due to farm-related injuries. In fact, farm jobs have the highest rate of fatalities and injuries of all types of teen employment, which isn't surprising given that agriculture is considered to be among the most hazardous industries in the United States. Although the majority of accidents happen to people who live on farms, a significant number of injuries or deaths have occurred to kids and teens who either work on or visit farms. But it's not all doom and gloom: With appropriate education and safety precautions, farm-related injuries and deaths can be prevented — and teens can enjoy all the positive experiences that farms have to offer.
missouri farms
USDA provides 12-week progress update on disaster assistance
Featured farmer FSA News
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Clayton Deis and family Gilliam, Mo.
Clayton Deis is no stranger to agriculture. He was only 6 years old when he got involved in his grandparent’s operation. He lived approximately a quarter of a mile away from his grandparents, and his grandfather would stop and pick him up so they could go feed hogs and cows together, ride in a tractor or combine, depending on what time of year it was. That has led up to Deis farming with his grandfather, Morris Strodtman, and his great uncle, Dale Strodtman. “Without either one of them, I don’t think it would be possible for me to be farming today,” Deis said. “They have taught me everything.” Also, while in high school, Deis was very interested in FFA and received dozens of proficiency awards, which went to the state level. He also received his State and American degrees. “Agriculture is important because I believe that it is the backbone of America and being involved in agriculture is what I love,” Deis said. Deis’ operation includes row crops – corn, soybean and wheat – 50 acres of corn silage, around 300 bales of hay and a 75-head cow/calf operation. He has also ran a hay crew putting up square bales since 1997. “I don’t think I have a favorite thing about being a farmer,” Deis said. “I enjoy sitting in a tractor for 10 plus hours or in the combine for who knows how long. I enjoy watching the crops grow in the summer, helping a baby calf – in the dead of winter – nurse, because the cold has made it weak and then watching the calf grow to 600 pounds. “Maybe the most important to me is being able to bring my kids with me, because as many farmers know, there’s not a lot of family time,” Deis stated. Deis enjoys spending time with his wife, Trisha, whom he married in 2003, and their three children, Taylor, Addisyn and Jace, who attend St. Peter Catholic School. Deis has lived in Saline County all his life. He said it has many rich soils and great market choices.
WASHINGTON – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack provided a 12-week progress report on U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) disaster assistance programs, announcing that USDA has processed 106,000 payments to farmers in 40 states across the country who suffered livestock and grazing losses between October 2011 and passage of the 2014 Farm Bill. “Farmers and ranchers who waited two and a half years for a farm bill are now getting some relief,” Vilsack said. “We met the very ambitious goal to get these programs up and running in just 60 days. Now, thanks to our dedicated staff in offices across the country, we’ve provided more than 106,000 payments to farmers and ranchers in 40 states who suffered drought, blizzard, and other weather related losses.” A quick implementation of the disaster assistance programs has been a top priority for USDA. In February, the Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced that enrollment for four disaster assistance programs would begin April 15, 60 days from the date the programs were reestablished by the 2014 Farm Bill. After the 2008 Farm Bill, it took over one year for the programs to get up and running. Since then, dedicated full-time FSA staff, as well as temporary employees hired to expedite the application process, have processed over $1.2 billion in payments to qualifying farmers and ranchers. The first payments were sent out to farmers and ranchers within two weeks of enrollment. USDA estimated that roughly $2.5 billion would be provided in disaster relief to cover losses from October 2011 through September 2014. If those estimates prove accurate, it would mean nearly half of all disaster payments have already been provided. While disaster relief is a critical lifeline that can prevent farmers and ranchers who do not have access to crop insurance from being wiped out by weather-related losses beyond their control, most producers only receive support equal to 60 percent of their actual losses. USDA disaster programs include the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) and the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). They provide payments for grazing losses due to drought and livestock deaths
due to adverse weather. The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) provides assistance for livestock, honeybees and farm-raised fish losses due to disease – including cattle tick fever – weather, wildfires and colony collapse disorder, or for losses not covered under other disaster assistance programs established by the 2014 Farm Bill. The Tree Assistance Program (TAP) provides financial assistance to eligible orchardists and nursery tree growers to replant or rehabilitate trees, bushes and vines that were lost or damaged by natural disasters. Specific program deadlines are as follows: – 2011-2013 ELAP – Friday, Aug. 1 – 2011 -2014 LFP – Friday, Jan. 30 – 2011-2014 LIP – Friday, Jan. 30 – 2011-2014 TAP – Monday, Feb. 2 Producers affected by adverse weather should contact their FSA county office to make an appointment and learn if they are eligible for disaster assistance. For more information, producers may review the 2014 Farm Bill Fact Sheet, and the LIP, LFP, ELAP and TAP fact sheets online, or visit any local FSA office. Vilsack also highlighted that more than $270 million in disaster assistance has been paid to farmers and ranchers in USDA StrikeForce counties experiencing chronic poverty. “Farmers and ranchers in these counties have extraordinary challenges. Through USDA’s StrikeForce initiative, we can get federal support to areas that need it the most,” Vilsack said. The StrikeForce for Rural Growth and Opportunity initiative works to address the unique set of challenges faced by many of America’s rural communities. Through the StrikeForce, USDA is leveraging resources and collaborating with over 400 community organizations, businesses, foundations, universities and other groups to support 80,300 projects with more than $9.7 billion in USDA investments into rural America. StrikeForce currently serves 20 states that include Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and West Virginia.
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missouri farms
MU Extension Corner Corn crop looking best in years
Grasshopper numbers growing in Mo.
by Linda Geist
by Linda Geist
COLUMBIA, Mo. – “I’ve never seen Missouri corn looking this good,” University of Missouri Extension corn specialist Brent Myers said Tuesday, July 22. In their weekly teleconference on Tuesday, MU Extension agronomy specialists across the state echoed Myers’ outlook. The July 18 USDA
bumper crop, Myers said. Agronomy specialists across the state said crops need rain now. Cool conditions have prevented drought stress so far. Myers said he encourages corn producers to prepare precision agriculture yield monitors at this time in preparation for harvest, and to have a
“2004 was the last time we have seen a corn crop with this much of the state’s acres in good to excellent condition at this time of year ...” —Brent Myers Missouri Crop Progress and Condition report shows 84 percent of Missouri corn in good to excellent condition. Corn silking progressed to 79 percent statewide—51 percent ahead of this time last year and 22 percent in front of the five-year average. “It’s pretty amazing,” Myers said. “2004 was the last time we have seen a corn crop with this much of the state’s acres in good to excellent condition at this time of year, but 2014 is higher,” Myers said. “2009 was close by the end of the year.” However, it’s still too early to call bushels in the bin. Missouri cornfields appear to have ample nitrogen, but they need timely rainfalls to bring a
plan for calibration. “Quality data from a year like this can be very useful for future analysis.” MU Extension entomologist Wayne Bailey also reported good news for corn producers at the weekly teleconference. Corn is mostly past the danger zone for Japanese beetle problems since pollination is nearly complete. The beetles feed on green silks and tassels of corn, disrupting pollination and reducing yields. USDA also reported good news for Missouri soybean producers. Soybean crop condition was rated 77 percent good to excellent with 30 percent of the crop blooming.
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COLUMBIA, Mo. – Farmers should scout and, if needed, spray for grasshoppers now, said University of Missouri Extension entomologist Wayne Bailey. Grasshoppers are reported in almost every county in the state, he said. “Numbers of small grasshoppers are exceedingly high this year in many areas of Missouri and insecticide application may be needed for control,” Bailey said. Insecticides can kill most small grasshoppers easily. Apply insecticide on borders of fields and crop rows at this time to reduce numbers before grasshoppers move into crop fields. It is unusual for grasshoppers to be seen this early in the season in soybean fields, Bailey said. Early-season control becomes even more important if predictions for a dry endof-season come true, he said.
Grasshoppers feed first on grasses and weeds in non-crop areas. When conditions are dry, grasshoppers travel from field borders to crop areas to find more green leaves, Bailey said. They can quickly strip leaves of crops. Most severe damage occurs after several dry seasons. Cool, wet weather during egg hatch reduces numbers. More than 100 species exist, but only a few are common in Missouri crops.
Brown, gray or green in color, they grow up to 1 ¾ inches long. They have large hind legs for jumping and prominent heads with large eyes and complex mouthparts. Adults have two pairs of wings and can readily fly or jump when disturbed. Bailey recommends control methods described on the MU Plant Sciences Integrated Pest Management website at http://ipm.missouri.edu/archive/ipcm/2012 /v22n7.pdf.
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missouri farms
Healthy soil, Healthy field Finding the answer to successful yields begins by looking down
by Kelly Melies Staff Writer small percentage of the earth’s surface actually consists of soil. But it has been said all living things depend on soil to survive. A good, healthy, rich soil can bring forth many of the nutrients we need to survive. It seems now if farmers and ranchers continue down the path of heavy tillage use, eventually the soil that so many depend on will lose organic matter, and ultimately, its productivity in providing the food and sources we depend on. There is a term being used known as conservation agriculture. Information obtained from the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Department simply puts it as a way to manage land for improved and sustained productivity in order to in-
A
crease food security. It is guided by the following three principles: – Continuous minimum mechanical soil disturbance. – Permanent organic soil cover. – Diversification of crop species grown in sequences and/or associations. When we look at these three principles, the idea of no-tillage and importance of soil health becomes more apparent. No-tillage is accomplished by direct seeding where the seed is delivered through a seed slot, which is covered by mulch after seeding. This is done in conjunction with using cover crops, and as anyone in agriculture should know, the use of cover crops help maintain the soil's fer-
tility and quality. It also provides some protection against the elements. This leads to crop diversification or crop rotation. The purpose of crop rotation is to provide various nutrients to the soil microorganisms and penetrate different layers of the soil for those nutrients. USDA Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Krysta Harden said the use of cover crops is important because it spreads life and there needs to be a soil health management system in place. The importance of soil health is evident here as it contributes to a system that sustains plants, animals and humans. Information retrieved from the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Department
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A table showing the amount of time and labor it takes between conventional farming and conservation farming. (Photo from Food and Agricultural Organization)
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explains this definition speaks to the importance of managing and maintaining soil, so it's sustainable for future generations. In order for this to occur, we need to remember that soil contains living organisms that perform the functions needed to produce food and fiber. It has been said a healthy soil can offer clean air and water, plentiful crops and forests, productive and attractive grazing lands, a wide range of wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Soil does this by performing five essential functions: – regulating water – sustaining plant and animal life – filtering and buffering potential pollutants – cycling nutrients – physical stability and support Advantages to conservation agriculture include economic benefits, agronomic benefits and environmental and social benefits. By the adoption of conservation agriculture, the amount of time and labor can be greatly reduced. With the reduction of time and labor, costs would decrease for fuel, machinery costs and maintenance, among other costs. A final economic
benefit would be a higher output for less input. Agronomic benefits include a rise in organic matter; in-soil water conservation, allowing the soil to hold and retain more water; and overall improvement in the soil structure, and ultimately, the rooting zone. The environmental benefits would include the reduction in soil erosion, and then would lead to a reduction of costs to maintain road, dam and hydroelectric power plants, improvement of water and air quality and an increase in biodiversity. “Improving soil health will make farms and ranchers sustain and recover from all conditions,” Harden said. “Stop treating soil like dirt and start treating it like our life depends on it.” Very bold words from Deputy Secretary Harden, but very true words. Life flows from the soil. There should be ways to protect and preserve that for the future. For more information about conservation agriculture, please visit www.fao.org/ag/ca/index.html. For other information about sustainable agriculture, log on to www.sustainableagriculture.net.
(Photo from the Natural Resources Defense Council)
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missouri farms
John’s Jargon Q. A. First, I want to start off by thanking everyone for the overwhelming response to my last article about Biologicals. After speaking with many of you and reading your emails, it is clear that this is a technology that’s of great interest to farmers. And it should be, because of the dramatic impact that biologicals can have upon your yields. Below, I am going to cover a few of the questions that you have asked me.
Q: A: I can definitely do that. In fact, I can narrow it down to one senCan you narrow down Biologicals to one paragraph for me?
tence. Here it is. “Healthier plants produce more seed.” That’s it! It’s not magic. Let’s compare plants to humans for a moment. It's an indisputable fact that the planet earth is experiencing a rapid increase in population, growth like we’ve never seen before in history. The reason for this is that the past 150 years have given creation to significant medical advances resulting in “healthier humans” who live to produce more healthy humans (i.e., more seed). Generally speaking, medicine has removed the diseases from the environment that have traditionally killed humans and stunted their seed producing capabilities, giving rise to a whole population of healthier, more productive people. And so it is with plants! Healthier plants produce more seed. Biologicals can be compared to medicine … medicine for plants! They are natural organisms found in nature that do specific things to improve the health of a plant and its environment. Just like “healthier humans produce more humans,” so it is that healthier plants produce more seed. That means higher yields for your crops.
Q: Aren’t there already chemi-
cals that can make a plant healthier and do what Biologicals can do?
A:
Yes and no. There have been a few chemicals created that contribute to plant health. The problems associated with those chemicals are two-fold: 1) high cost; and 2) as in human medicine, chemical formulations are often just altered natural elements. Altering them from their original state allows manufacturers to have patents awarded upon their products. Once they’re altered, side effects can be introduced and their effectiveness can dwindle. Biologicals are all about natural organisms, as opposed to chemically synthesized organisms, that make plants healthier and enable them to produce more. Beyond those factors, biologicals researchers are finding thousands of beneficial organisms doing things to plants that chemicals can’t do. They have taken a whole new approach to research and development, and in some ways, are years ahead of the big boys. Keep in mind that we are at the very front of biologicals research, and technology and innovation is starting to take off on a rapid pace. I expect to see some very exciting discoveries with regard to biologicals and plant health in the times ahead.
Q: A: Envision biologicals researchers like the miners from the Gold You say they are “finding” organisms. How does that work?
Rush Days in the 1800s. These scientists are literally searching through plant extracts and putting plants through fermentation processes as they seek out these naturally-occurring organisms. Once found, these organisms are harvested and put through tests to see if they contribute to plant health or not, and if so, what do they do. After extensive research of any one particular
Healthier plants produce more seed
organism and its health-boosting capabilities, it is then commercialized and made available to growers. In some cases, researchers are discovering that combining multiple different organisms together have an exponentially more powerful impact on a plant’s environment and health than one organism does by itself. Imagine an entire biologicals football team’s defensive line going to battle to protect and defend your plant against diseases. That’s exactly what we’re seeing happen within the biologicals community.
Q: A: There are a number of ways that biological treatments can be ap-
What are the ways that Biologicals can be applied to crops?
plied to your crops. As with any treatment, the effectiveness of the various applications depends upon your crop, your location, your soil conditions and the timing of the application. 1) Applied as a treatment to fertilizer, which is then broadcast to the soil. This process is known as sparging. This is when fertilizer granules are coated with a biological formulation and then dried onto the fertilizer. The fertilizer is then broadcast to the ground where moisture causes the organisms to activate and draw down into the soil, creating a healthier environment for plants. 2) Applied as a treatment to seed, prior to planting. Treated seed has become quite popular in the past few years. Here, the same concept applies as with the fertilizer treatment except that the biological formulation surrounds the seed itself and delivers its health boosting compounds to the seedling during emergence. This process relies on adequate moisture to get to the seed before emergence can occur. 3) Applied directly into the row either underneath the seed, to the side of it or on top of the seed during planting.
This process is the most effective of the first three I’ve listed. The reason being that the biological formulation is placed precisely within the seed bed in a liquid state that provides both moisture and health-boosting organisms. A healthier, protective environment combined with moisture is the best recipe for a strong emergence. Incidentally, I have personally done a lot of research and seen the power of putting health and moisture into the row. I mentioned in my last article that all of my planters are configured for infurrow treatments. The research is clear that a strong emergence is the first step in having a strong yield. There’s no way around that. In-furrow biological application is one of my preferred methods. 4) Foliar is the process of applying the product to the plant’s leaves during various stages of development. This process is where you deliver a biologicals formulation to the plant’s leaves and stems with a spray application. I have found there are two important biological foliar applications that have the biggest impact upon a soybean plant’s health. Using just foliar applications, without in-furrow, I am personally seeing anywhere from an 8 to 12 bushel increase and sometimes more, depending upon growing conditions and genetics. During these next couple of years I am going to be doing a great deal more research with foliar-applied Biologicals. If my current results are the starting point after only 5 years of testing, I am confident that there is more yield to be had with the development of new microorganisms.
Q: John, what do I do now? A: As growers, we are all participants in this biologicals gold rush. It’s a fact that we all want bigger yields from our ground. And there is no reason
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to try and figure all of this on your own. My program may not be the same as your program. In fact, I’m sure it’s not. But that’s one of the great things about Biologicals. Increased plant health and higher yields can be had by anyone, no matter what your program. With that said, I want to hear from you! Contact me at 816-773-
6018 or johno@agteampro.com. By sharing our research and our programs, and by setting up test plots and then researching some more, we all benefit from the advancements in agricultural technology. In the end, I want us all to work together to build a community of knowledge and experience that results in higher yields for all of us.
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Farming for Novices
14
Lessons from the Ingalls
Marcia Gorrell Contributing writer his year, timely rains and cool weather have blessed our area with colorful corn and soybean fields, which point toward a plentiful harvest. In fact, the crops look as good as they have since 2004, when the area experienced record yields. However, as promising as they look, it’s much too soon to celebrate. Long before I met a farmer, I learned that lesson through the “Little House on the Prairie” books written by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Those books and the stories from Laura’s childhood still give us a glimpse of the trials, tribulations and joys of farming and rural life. In the 1870s, soon after an Indian treaty forced the family to leave their “Little House on the Prairie,” Ma, Pa, Mary, Laura and Carrie Ingalls landed in Minnesota, settling on the Banks of Plum Creek. With the optimism of a true farmer, Pa Ingalls be-
T
lieved he could carve out a good living raising wheat. “This is great wheat country, Caroline! Rich, level land, with not a tree or a rock to contend with,” he told his wife. Pa traded his wagon and mustangs, Pet and Patty, for a small farm, which came complete with a dugout house featuring sod walls and a hay-lined ceiling. Understandably, the Ingalls’ girls were less than impressed by their new home. "It's only ‘till I harvest the first wheat crop," said Pa. "Then you'll have a fine house and I'll have horses and maybe even a buggy.” As his first wheat crop grew taller, thicker and more promising every day, Pa made the decision to buy materials on credit and begin building their new home before his first harvest. With real glass windows and mill-sawed wood, the beautiful home was finished just before harvest. However, before Pa can get the wheat out of the field, a plague of grasshoppers descended on the prairie wiping out the Ingalls’ field along with anything else in their path. Needless to say, the Ingalls were left with a new house, but no income to pay for it.
Farmers really can’t count their chickens before they hatch — not in the 1870s and not now. But here is the rest of the story. The one not completely told in the “Little House” books, but in true biographies of the Ingalls family. No, Pa Ingalls didn’t make it rich as a Minnesota wheat farmer. They didn’t enjoy their beautiful home for long. He ended up working for the railroad before eventually homesteading a farm in South Dakota. When he died, Pa Ingalls was a store owner in De Smet, recognized and celebrated as being one of, if not the oldest, settler in the small town. But Pa Ingalls did become rich in life. He raised four girls who adored him, enjoyed a long, happy marriage and lived a life full of love, laughter, adventure and music. Because of his author daughter, his spirit, his stories and his zest for living are still teaching lessons today. Over many years, the Minnesota grasshopper plague became not a defining moment for the Ingalls, but just another story brought to life for all of us to enjoy. With that in mind, I’ve decided to look at another lesson from Pa Ingalls, maybe the most important of all: Life is a journey,
lived a moment at a time. Each day is only a small page of the full story. We could look at our current crops and worry about the problems that could arise before harvest. There are many – bugs (yes, even grasshoppers), fungal diseases, high winds, hail, a hot, dry August, and/or a wet and delayed harvest. Any of those could lower the yields significantly. Or I could worry about crop prices, which seem to plummet every day as experts predict record yields. I’d like to go with my instinct and do a little retail therapy to lessen my stress level. But of course then I’m totally ignoring lesson number one. I’m also pretty sure a shopping spree wouldn’t go over well with Hubby. (Note, plummeting prices.) So I’ve decided to take another road. I’m going to go outside and enjoy the weather, deeply breathe in the smells of freshly cut hay and enjoy the sights of healthy green crops, slightly swaying in the wind. I’m going to enjoy each day we are blessed with a potential bumper crop. In other words, I’m going to enjoy the destination. Or I could go just go shopping …
QUICK FACTS
2004 average corn yields (bushels per acre) Pettis – 152.8 Saline – 179.1 Lafayette – 183.1
2004 average soybean yields (bushels per acre) Pettis – 48.5 Saline – 48.8 Lafayette – 52.2
2013 average corn yields (bushels per acre) Pettis – 126 Saline – 153.4 Lafayette – 161.5
2013 average soybean yields (bushels per acre) Pettis – 35.4 Saline – 41.8 Lafayette – 48
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16
missouri farms
Lafayette County Fair
The Lafayette County 4H/FFA Fair was held July 12-17 at Fairground Park, in Higginsville. Clockwise from top left: Competitors participate in Super Farmer Games; a young exhibitor awaits direction from the Rabbit Show judge; girls participate in the Goat Show; and tech saavy youths build machines in the Robotics Show.
A glimpse inside
missouri farms
county fair events
17
Saline County Fair
Above, competitors present their animals during the Swine Show at the 2014 Saline County Fair. Other events during the fair included (from left): a Sheep Show, Shooting Sports, the Dog Show and Technology Day. Online photo galleries can be found at: www.marshallnews.com and www.theconcordianonline.com.
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missouri farms
MDC offers landowner’s financial assistance to improve wildlife habitat
Rural Lifestyles by Sarah Reed Missouri Farms
The tradition of canning food has held strong for decades, and for one Slater resident, it's a new way to continue the hobby carried by both her parents and grandparents. This summer is Madeline Lee's first year in learning how to can. Although she said she's always seen the generations before her take on the process, it's one this wife and mother of three has recently grown an interest for. “I never sat down and watched. Now that I have a family of my own, I realize the importance of it,” Lee said. Deep into the growing season, her home garden is beginning to flourish with as much zest as her budding interest. This year it boasts tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, peppers, jalapenos, radishes, potatoes and onions. She's also growing green beans, which is the first vegetable she's working with. “I read that you should pick 1 ½ quarts of beans to get 1 quart in the can,” Lee explained. “I picked enough to get 7 quarts in my pressure cooker.” Canning green beans requires little preparation other than snapping and cleaning the beans. From there, they go into a jar and set in a pressure cooker. While a simple process, it's one Lee is learning takes more time than she originally estimated. Her instructions said it would take approximately 25 minutes – she estimated a hefty 45 minutes. “It was (eventually) a two-hour process,” she noted, explaining a person new to canning needs to allot time for boiling water and sterilization. “It took a while for pressure to build once I had the lid on … and it still takes a while for that pressure to release before you can take the lid off.” Later in the season, Lee will can tomatoes to save and use for salsa. She also plans to make pumpkin pie from garden pumpkins this fall. For her, the new venture into the canning tradition has been one rich with knowledge. “I like knowing I won't have to go buy (produce) at the store,” she said. “I can keep the food that I'm taking so much time to grow.”
Landowners wishing to improve their land for wildlife and other conservation goals can apply for technical and financial assistance from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). Your local MDC private land conservationist (PLC) can come out to your property and give you a wildlife habitat management plan to help you in deciding what type of cost-share would be available for your property. Cost-share amounts range from 50 to 75 percent and are dependent upon qualification and funding availability. There is a $6,000 per landowner, per year cap for cost-share funding. The program is available July 1 through May 30. Trained in a wide range of habitat-development approaches, Conservation Department PLCs offer aid in pond management, stream improvement techniques, native-plant restoration and wildlife-friendly agricultural methods.
Some examples of available cost-share practices include: Open field management: disking, spraying, tree clearing (ex. Honey Locust, Cedar, Hedge), prescribed burning, native grass/wildflower plantings, fence (ex. fencing off woodlands from cattle), wetland development, and wildlife watering impoundment Timber management: timber stand improvement (TSI), which includes (cutting out the unmerchantable/undesirable trees and leaving the rest), crop tree release, edge feathering, forestry stewardship plans, and tree/shrub planting If interested, contact MDC Private Land Conservationist for Saline and Howard Counties Seth Moore Private Land Conservationist for Saline and Howard Counties at 660-886-7447 ext. 310 or seth.moore@mdc.mo.gov. For Lafayette and Johnson Counties, contact Steve Hoel at 660747-8400 or steve.hoel@mdc.mo.gov.
‘What agriculture means to me’ >>> Mariah Harper 2014-2015 Reporter, Marshall FFA Chapter
Fried Green Beans Ingredients 1 quart vegetable oil for frying 2 cups all-purpose flour 4 t. salt 1 t. black pepper
1 t. garlic powder 1 cup buttermilk 1 pound fresh green beans
Directions 1. Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F. Whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder; set aside. Pour the buttermilk into a shallow dish. 2. Thread the green beans onto toothpicks, making bundles of about 5 green beans each. Dip
the green bean bundles into the buttermilk, then into the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour. Fry in the hot oil until the flour turns golden brown, about 4 minutes. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot. (Recipe from www.allrecipes.com)
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missouri farms
USDA awards funds to promote development of rural wood to energy projects WASHINGTON – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the award of more than $2.5 million in grants to develop wood energy teams in 11 states and an additional $1.25 million for nine wood energy projects. "Renewable wood energy is part of the Obama Administration's 'all of the above' energy strategy," Vilsack said. "Working with our partners, the Forest Service is supporting development of wood energy projects that promote sound forest management, expand regional economies and create new rural jobs." The federal funds will leverage more than $4.5 million in investments from USDA partners. Under the terms of the agreements announced today, private, state and federal organizations will work together to stimulate the development of additional wood energy projects in their states. Activities may include workshops that provide technical, financial and environmental information, preliminary engineering assessments and community outreach needed to support development of wood energy projects. Grant recipients are from: Arizona, Colorado, Kentucky, Montana, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and West Virginia. Secretary Vilsack also announced projects to be funded through the Wood-to-Energy grant program, which will use woody material from National Forest System lands, such as beetle-killed trees, to improve
forest health and aid in wildfire prevention. The grant program helps applicants complete the necessary design work needed to secure public or private investment for construction. This year more than $1.25 million will be provided to assist projects in New Hampshire, Minnesota, California, Oregon, and Washington. For more information on the projects funded by the Forest Service, please visit the Statewide Wood Energy Teams (SWET) and Wood to Energy Grant Recipients page. The Forest Service Wood to Energy grant program began in 2005 and has provided more than $36 million toward various projects, ranging from biomass boilers for schools and hospitals, to helping businesses acquire equipment that improves processing efficiencies. So far, over 150 grants have been awarded to small businesses, non-profits, tribes and local state agencies to improve forest health, while creating jobs, green energy and healthy communities. For more information on the cooperative agreement program, visit http://na.fs.fed.us/werc/wood-energy/. For more information on USDA's renewable energy programs, please visit the USDA Energy website. This announcement support forest restoration and the Obama administration's efforts to help communities better prepare for and reduce the severity of wildfires, especially in the face of climate change. Over the past ten years the Forest Service has had to borrow $3.2 bil-
lion dollars from other agency programs to support emergency wildfire suppression costs amid longer fire seasons and more frequent and severe wildfire activity. On July 8th, President Obama requested $615 million for emergency wildfire suppression activities for FY 2014, and a new budget approach to fund wildfire suppression similar to other natural disaster events, mirroring bipartisan legislation proposed by Congress. These actions alleviate the need to conduct fire transfers this year and in future years and will help reduce firefighting costs, promote long-term forest health, and maintain fiscal responsibility. The mission of the Forest Service, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world. Public lands the Forest Service manages contribute more than $13 billion to the economy each year through visitor spending alone. Those same lands provide 20 percent of the Nation's clean water supply, a value estimated at $7.2 billion per year. The agency has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 80 percent of the 850 million forested acres within the U.S., of which 100 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live.
Ag panel examines USDA's efforts implementing reforms in the Agricultural Act of 2014 WASHINGTON – Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee's Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management, Rep. K. Michael Conaway, held a hearing to examine the efforts of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as it implements the new commodity and crop insurance titles of the Agricultural Act of 2014, otherwise known as the farm bill. The Agricultural Act of 2014 made sweeping reforms to the commodity title repealing several programs and providing producers with an option between Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC). Neither option triggers unless the producer suffers a significant loss. The farm bill also improved crop insurance, which now serves as the core risk manage-
ment tool for producers when disaster strikes. Members of the Subcommittee questioned USDA Under Secretary Michael Scuse on the status of implementing key provisions.
provides critical relief for producers who have struggled with severe and devastating drought conditions for the past four years. Producers suffering from a drought shouldn't have to wait until the third year of a five-year
"I commend USDA’s initial efforts to implement the Agricultural Act of 2014 and I challenge them to fully deliver on the promises made to our farmers and ranchers in the law.” —Rep. K. Michael Conaway
"I commend USDA’s initial efforts to implement the Agricultural Act of 2014 and I challenge them to fully deliver on the promises made to our farmers and ranchers in the law. Specifically, USDA must make it a priority to implement the Actual Production History (APH) adjustment because it
farm bill to receive relief, particularly when Congress intended for it to be available immediately. Under Secretary Scuse told us today he is committed to exploring partial implementation of this provision and will provide the committee with details about potential timelines. That is encouraging and I
look forward to hearing those details. It is crucial we work together to resolve some of these issues so that our producers have the necessary information to make plans for their farming and ranching operations," Conaway said. "I am very pleased with the hearing today. Under Secretary Scuse was able to provide a critical update regarding the implementation of Title I and XI. It is vital that every valuable piece of information is disseminated to our farmers in a timely manner so that they are able to make the most educated decision regarding their respective crop insurance program. I look forward to working closely with the USDA as we continue to implement the farm bill," said Ranking Member David Scott.
missouri farms
21
Product Reviews
Max power for the Max Story and photos by Geof Fowler www.tractor.com When we first tested the Mahindra Max 28XL HST flagship back in May of 2012, we came away quite impressed. The buzz then was that this new lineup of subcompacts would be game changers. While the competition cried foul – “these weren’t subcompacts but small chassis compacts in disguise” – Mahindra went about raking up
tractor with larger tires. For the Max 28XL owner, that recipe is further enhanced by the addition of tilt steering, position control on the 3PH, and the option of a hydrostatic (HST) or shuttle shift transmission. As nice a package the Max 28XL HST is, and how competent the package works for tasks such as loader work, you might ask
record sales and adding to its already extensive dealer network. Fast forward to 2014, Mahindra can be credited with adding another descriptive class of tractor, the midcompact. This, in the estimation of many, is exactly where the Max 28XL fits. The recipe itself is simple: start with a cast iron chassis strong enough to be backwards backhoe compatible (does not have to be initially ordered as such), plug in a reliable Mitsubishi EPA Final Tier 4 (FT4) powerplant, add powerful hydraulics with full Cat I three-point hitch (3PH) capabilities, and outfit the
why offer a shuttle shift transmission. True, there are those that just like the simplicity of a manual transmission. Others feel more at home with their left palm on the steering wheel, left fingertips on the shuttle, right hand on the loader joystick, left foot at the clutch pedal, and right foot on the throttle. Sound complex? It’s not really, but there is a reason hydrostatic transmissions are so popular. For those not daunted by the busy hands and feet, a manual transmission gets more power to the ground. How much more you might ask. In the case of the Max 28XL, the power take off
(PTO) horsepower is 1.5 more on tractors equipped with shuttle shift transmissions. And while an increase of 1.5 might not sound that much, remember, the Max 28XL is a small frame tractor with 28 horsepower. Already a capable performer, the seat-of-the-pants feel when moving from a Max 28XL HST to a Max 28SL Shuttle is like, “who dropped the steroids in?” Top speed goes from 9.7 mph forward to 10.9 mph. That is moving on a tractor of this size. And reverse speed increases even more dramatically, jumping from 5.1 mph to 9.1 mph. When we reviewed the Max 24 in May, the good folks at Ellington Agway thought we also might be interested in checking out a Max 28XL Shuttle. Hugh and Matt hinted that we would be impressed with the greater available power. How could we resist? The shuttle transmission used is an 8F/8R synchromesh setup that utilizes a left hand shifter in a traditional “H” pattern to select gears one through four that is positioned next to a lever with the low and high ranges. Forward and reverse are selected using the shuttle lever positioned just below the steering wheel for fingertip use. This isn’t a power shuttle like the 4035 we tested in August of 2013, so a clutch is required to reverse direction. Mahindra outfits the Max 28XL Shuttle with hand and foot throttles so you can preset the engine RPM if desired, or just use the foot throttle
to control the speed within a gear and range. Not having the treadle pedal on the right side as on hydro versions allows the operator to access the split brakes without requiring gymnastics and gets our full approval. Differential lock access is moved to a right heel position. Hydraulics run through a twin-pump arrangement flowing 4.6 gpm to implement need and 2.7 gpm to power steering requirements (7.3 gpm total). This gives the 3PH a lift capacity of 2,205 pounds. As on the Max 28XL HST, the 3PH has position control so an implement can consistently be returned to an operator selectable height. Firing up the Mitsubishi mill results in a smokeless idle we measured at 78 dBA. This was despite being adjacent to busy road where Ellington Agway is located. Our test tractor was outfitted with 23 by 8.5-12 front/33 by 12.5-16.5 rear R3 turf tires. Prospective purchasers will have their choice of turf, industrial (23 by 8.5-12 front/12 by 16.5 rear R4) or Ag (7 by 12 front/9.5 by 16 rear R1) tires. Our test tractor was also outfitted with a nifty hydraulic sub frame plow, making the turf tire selection an understandable choice for use in snowy winter climates. Manufactured for Mahindra by Bercomac, the plow hydraulic cylinders were nicely hidden and protected by the fabrication frame. First gear low range got us nowhere fast, though it would be perfect for tough conditions with a large tiller
or for spraying a field, so we quickly found second gear high range. That seemed to be a combination that would work well for general use and even light loader work. Fourth gear high range was insane, almost more gear than 28 HP can handle. Good thing the Max 28XL Shuttle only weighs 1,819 pounds. Other niceties include a folding ROPS, steel fenders and hood, the ability to check transmission fluid level from the operator seat (a comfortable mid-back design with full suspension), platform access from both sides, and a slick hood mechanism supported by a gas strut. Options to consider include a mid-PTO ($900), drive over midmount mower, and an extra rear remote. If the ML205
28XL is rated to lift 1,402 pounds to a max height of 82.7 inches. Dump clearance is 67.3 inches so most small to mid-sized pickup trucks should be within dump capability. The Max 28XL Shuttle measures 109.3 by 51.3 inches and comes with a five-year warranty. MSRP for the basic tractor is $14,180, a savings of $1,115 over a Max 28XL HST. Picking up the extra power, getting a little extra speed, and saving enough for an extra implement is a combination bound to appeal to plenty. If you’re in the market for a tractor of this size and class, check out the Mahindra 28XL Shuttle. And if you’re in the vicinity of Ellington, Conn., make sure to stop in and visit Hugh or Matt.
loader is selected, the Max
M & M Land Surveying Service, Inc. 806 E. Main Street • P.O. Box 83 Richmond, Missouri 64085
Terry M. McCanless, P.L.S. (816)-776-6343 • (816)-470-6343 (660)-394-2600
22
missouri farms
Product Reviews
John Deere's entry level compact utility tractor by Geof Fowler www.tractor.com photo by John Deere Horsepower is horsepower, but trim levels can still be a bit confusing. John Deere first came out with E designated, or economy, tractors with models such as the 1023E and 3038E. These tractors offered substantial performance, but to keep costs down, some features had to be omitted. Likewise, John Deere recently introduced M (also economy) designated tractors starting with the 4M family. But for those that wish for all the bells and whistles and comfort enhancing niceties learned over 177 years, R designated tractors are where it’s at. The subject of this test is the entry level 2025R which replaces the time tested and proven 2320. Don’t be fooled by entry level, though, as this is a no compromise, fully-equipped CUT. Beginning with the engine, not surprisingly a Yanmar, the 3TNV76 makes 24.2 gross horsepower (round upwards and you get the 25 of the 2025R) at a low 2500 rpm. The 1.115L mill achieves EPA Tier 4 compliance without the need for diesel particulate filtration (DPF) and is rated to deliver 18 horsepower at the power take off (PTO). Output from the powerplant is delivered to the ground through a Kanzaki hydrostatic transmission with two gear ranges. As with the 2320 we tested in Oct. of 2012, the gear ranges are radically different than those used in One Series tractors. Low range delivers all the grunt you would need for ground-engaging activities, but with enough speed to mow. High range delivers usable transport speed with enough grunt to mow, perhaps in any condition save substantial slopes. Hydraulic output is run through a gear driven twin pump arrangement that flows 2.2 gpm to the power steering system and 3.4 gpm to implement needs (5.6 gpm total). And while the flow rate might seem
a bit low when compared to One Series machines, the operating PSI is much higher (2421 vs. 2000), resulting in a three-point hitch (3PH) lift capacity of 1,150 pounds to the industry standard of 24 inches behind center link. As expected, position control is standard fare and the hitch rating is full Cat-I. Operator control over the hydrostatic transmission runs through a twin side-by-side pedal arrangement that is among the best in the industry, though as we mentioned in our 2320 review, the new pedal position does require more foot movement than in the previous generation’s setup. Getting behind the wheel and that becomes a trivial matter; full intuitive modulation over the entire forward and reverse speed range is the end result. And behind the wheel, John Deere ergonomics are first rate. Beginning with the levers and controls which are differentiated by color with mechanical and hydraulic interfaces in black and transmission-driven (PTO) interfaces in yellow, the operator’s hands and feet seem to interact with controls at the perfect location. Both tilt steering and cruise control are standard.
The one negative, in our estimation, is a feature we’re forced to get used to. Reverse implement operation (RIO) is a result of lawsuits that have forced manufacturers to come up with systems protecting the unsuspecting from harm by negligent operation of a tractor while reversing with the PTO engaged. While we would never wish harm to anyone, these systems become nuisances that in no way ensure an operator looks rearward before backing up. Both 540 rpm rear and 2,000 rpm mid PTOs are standard equipment on the 2025R. John Deere engineers have long paid attention to the ease of operation, which includes the ease of attaching/detaching implements. For the 2025R, some of those operating enhancements include on-ramp drive over decks, iMatch quick hitches, iMatch auto connect (PTO) hitches, and a quick park loader with quick attach bucket options. Our test tractor was outfitted with the H130 loader. This is a direct replacement for the outgoing 200X/200CX loader and offers comparable performance with a lift capacity of 1,023 pounds to a full
lift height of 78.9 inches. With 3.4 gpm at 2,421 psi flowing to the loader, breakout force is 2,508 pounds with rated cycle times of 4.73 seconds full raise, 2.88 seconds full lower, 4.743 seconds full dump, and 2.88 seconds full curl. A model 270a backhoe is also available. As with other John Deere backhoes, the 270a can be operated at idle, which is perfect for beginners to get used to digging with less chance of damage to adjacent objects. The system is sub-frame based and allows a mid-mount mower to be attached at the same time. Another nice feature is that the tractor’s 3PH arms can remain attached while using the backhoe. The 270a comes with improved feel and feathering, pivot seat that can be adjusted horizontally and vertically to operator preference, and can be outfitted with 8-, 12- or 16inch buckets. John Deere's 2025R measures 109.2 inch long and carries all 1,660 pounds of its base weight on a 63 inch wheelbase. Ground clearance is 12.5 inches and turning radius with brakes applied (left side split pedals) is 6.7 feet (7.7 feet without brakes applied). 23x8.5-12 front and 31x12-16.5 rear industrial (R4) and same size turf (R3) tires are offered. John Deere gives the 2025R a two-year bumper-to-bumper warranty with extended powertrain coverage to three years. Notable options include factory cab, additional lighting, engine coolant heater, and rear fender extensions (dare we say fender flares?). For anyone in the market for a subcompact tractor such as the One Series but liking the idea of larger tires and more hydraulic response, the 2025R is a worthy contender. With a MSRP of tractor-only at $15,348, the 2025R offers a lot of tractor, features, and comfort for the price.
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Jump Start! Program! If you have ever had some bad luck with your credit for whatever reason, but need to buy a car,
call Kristina Jasper at 660-826-8320. We can help!
JD 7800, 8700 h, 2WD, duals, inside 80%, ouside 30%, full power shift, 3 hyd outlets. $40,000 OBO. 641208-5059 Lexion 595R, ’07, 1,365 hrs., rd. bar, ag leader, P.M.I. inspection & work done, field ready. $185,000 641-680-0805 Michigan C 1986 Wheel Ldr, 4 yd. bucket, good tree clearing. $17,500. 660-6633432 JD 850 dozer w/winch & sweeps, good running mach.! $19,500 OBO. 641898-2384 05 W900L 550 CAT 13 speed. 563-682-7645 CIH 1988 1660 combine exc shape, 3500 hrs, 10x20 20' grain head oil bath. $35,000 for both. 660265-5827 CIH MXM 140 w/ldr, 1283 hrs, 38’s, 1283 hrs, joystick. $62,500. 217-430-0837 JD 608 Stalk Master ’08 chopping CH, CM, HH, hyd deck, knife rolls, stalk stompers, $47,000 OBO. 515341-3188 JD 7410 mfwd, ’00, 5401000 PTO, 3 scv’s, clean tractor! Asking $38,950. 217-428-2906 801 Ford Powermaster. New paint & tires, excellent condition. Asking $5500 OBO. 573-378-9076 Allis Chalmers 1949 WD, restored, asking $3000. WD45 runs good, $1500. Allis Plow, (2) 3-bottoms, (2) 2 bottoms, Allis disc and blade, asking $250 each. 417-296-0682
FOR SALE: 1982 JD 4040 Diesel tractor C/A 6040 hrs, serial # H012378RW. Near new 18.4 R38 rear tires, new tires, new batteries. Excellent Condition. Cell 660-641-1299, Office 660463-8068.
3 Angus Bulls ages 20-22 months, great bloodlines, shots, poured, ready to go to work. Kearney, MO. 816809-5758
Alfalfa & Grass Hay, all sizes & lg round. Large Round Wheat Straw. Delivered by semi load. 641-6582738
Duroc, York & Hamp Boars good selection. Paul Martin, Shelbina, MO, 573-8224216
Rye Straw from the field, avail July or August. 563568-9044, 563-568-3212
CDL DRIVER WANTED FOR LOCAL FEED HAUL. MUST HAVE 2 YEARS EXPERIENCE WITH A CLEAN DRIVING RECORD. Assigned truck and trailer. Competitively Paid Weekly by direct deposit. Assigned truck and trailer. CALL DENNIS PATTERSON TRUCKING @ 573-369-2325 (M-TH 8 AM430 PM) Fertilizer-seed-chemical dealer retiring. Seeking manager/trainee to operate business in W. Illinois. Also, needing applicator operators. Send resume to: Dealer Retiring, 1065 Sierra Court NE Suite B, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 NOW HIRING! Seeking year round Lawn/Landscape Maintenance preson to work on Whiteman AFB. Must have Drivers License, prefer Bi-Lingual (Spanish/English), can NOT have any felonies or misdemeanors. Please fax resume to 405-869-9688 or call 405-869-9755.
4 large reg. Landrace boars, ready to work. DOB 5/2013. 219-766-2805, 219-9165528
LaMancha, Nubian, LM x N cross doelings. Commercial goat dairy. CAE, CL, Johnes neg. http://prairiefruits. com/2014-kid-sales 217643-2314 Blk Ang hfrs, bred LBW Reg Ang bulls, start clvg Sept 5, all shots, Scourgaurd. Central MO. 660-221-5688
WANTED: Standing Timber Cottonwood, Maple, Ash, Walnut, Oak. MID MO LOGGING John Crooker, 816806-5808; Dustin Allred, 660-334-0701
WATCH YOUR AD WORK ONLINE! FARROW HOUSE MANAGER Looking for Farrow House Manager for 3000 sow farm. Please send resume to leefarms@outlook.com
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Marshallnews.com Missouri Farms Online classifieds
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2014 Chamber Business of the Year!