Ag Today
12 • March 16, 2011
Corn growers association adopts national ethanol policy on tax credit Iowa corn farmers joined with other farmer from 26 states representing the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) at the annual Commodity Classic meeting to determine policies for their respective organizations in 2011 and beyond. NCGA delegates adopted ethanol policy that states “NCGA supports reforming existing ethanol tax policy.Ideas to replace existing tax law, in the following priority order, should be a variable ethanol tax credit followed by an ethanol tax credit at a reduced rate.Non-tax policies should include biofuels infrastructure, higher blends, corn starch ethanol as an advanced biofuel, or favorable flexible fuel
vehicle policy.” Along with ethanol policy, representatives adopted farm bill policy that says NCGA should investigate transitioning direct payments into programs that allow producers the ability to manage risk while assuring food security. A major topic at the 2011 Commodity Classic was the current budget situation in Washington D.C. Agriculture represents less than one-half of one percent of the federal budget and farmers will do their part in strengthening the U.S. economy as shown already by cutting more than $4 billion in spending on agriculture programs this fiscal year. “Corn farmers are moving forward to shape our farm and ethanol
policies to work with the current political and budget situation in Washington to continue our successes in providing food, fuel, feed and fiber to America and the world,” said Dean Taylor, Iowa Corn Growers Association President and a farmer from Prairie City.
Summit • News-Tribune
NIACC plans garden seminar for March 24 A Gardening Seminar will be held from 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Thursday, March 24 at North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC). Workshops will address subjects ranging from beekeeping, landscape design, vegetable gardening, preserving our heritage, and woodland gardening. These Iowa gar-
dening specialists include: Pat and Peggy Ennis, Iowa Honey Producers Association, Goodell; Donna Brown, Brown Landscaping, Belmond; Daniel Zimmerman, Stillwater Greenhouse, Osage; Megan Buckingham, Seed Savers Exchange, Decorah; and Kitty Clasing, Master
Agriculture Today
Gardener, Mason City. Market Street, a popular segment of the seminar that features garden-related business displays, will make a return to the Gardening Seminar for 2011. The $29 fee includes a noon lunch. Reservations are taken at 1-888 GO NIACC, Ext. 4358.
A supplement to
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Ag Today
2 • March 16, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Specialty crop grants available in Iowa Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey said the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship will make grants available to help enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in Iowa. The Department is eligible to receive approximately $275,000 in grant funding through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program which is run by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. This is the fourth of five Specialty Crop Block Grants authorized through the Farm Bill (Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008). “These funds are available to support food safety, research and marketing efforts that will encourage Iowans to choose the products that are produced right here in our state,” Northey said. “Specialty crops are a very important part of Iowa agriculture as they allow farmers to diversify and give customers access to locally grown products.” Iowa agencies, universities, institutions, and producer, industry, and community based organizations are all eligible to apply for funding to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. In addition, single organizations, institutions, and individuals are encouraged to participate as project partners. Grant awards will be considered up to a maximum of $24,000. Grant funds shall be
used for projects that solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops that benefit the specialty crop industry as a whole and will not be awarded for projects that directly benefit a particular product or provide a profit to a single organization, institution, or individual. “Specialty Crops” that are eligible under this program are fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits and horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture. Proposals must be received by IDALS on or before 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 13, 2011. For more information
visit the IDALS Specialty Crop Block Grant program at the Department’s web site at www.IowaAgriculture.g ov/Horticulture_and_Fa rmersMarkets/specialty CropGrant.asp. The Department is also establishing a Review Committee to help review, evaluate, and make recommendations on grant proposals submitted to the Department. Those interested in participating in the Review Committee should have knowledge of specialty crops, and/or grant writing or grant management experience, and the ability to devote the
necessary time to complete the review process. Additional information about reviewer responsibilities, meeting dates and an application form can be found at www.IowaAgriculture.g ov/Horticulture_and_Fa rmersMarkets/specialty CropGrant.asp. Applications to participate in the Reviewer Committee are due by 4 p.m. Friday, April 1.
•From the Iowa Dept. of Ag. In Iowa U.S./Imperial Total number of
farms (2007) 88,400 Average farm size (2007) 356 acres
WADE THOMPSON TRUCKING & REPAIR
Photo by Rae Yost
Howard Laugen shows some of the parts included in a tractor’s power shift. Laugen said it’s surprising how many parts are involved in a tractor. Small parts are inside larger parts. Laugen has been repairing equipment since he attended a vocational college in the early 1960s.
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Laugen says repairs can take time even if they are simple REPAIR FROM P.7
other parts. A replacement part for the gears caused its own problem as it was not the correct fit for the tractor. The company had changed the gear box on the model between serial numbers, so while the part matched the model, it didn’t match the change made to the manufacture of that of serial number. “I took that rear end a part three times,” Laugen said.
Laugen described himself as a “jack of all trades, master of none.” In other words, it’s a guy who can weld, handle a wrench, poke his head inside an engine and discover what’s wrong and tear apart the engine to fix it and then, put it all back together. Oh, and fix a piece of tillage equipment if that’s needed. He still has the wrench set he bought when he entered vocational school in the fall of 1963. “I’ve added tools and equipment little by lit-
tle,” he said. Always on a cash basis, he said. Laugen has shelves of parts catalogs neatly stored on shelves. A piece of plywood on top of a base serves as his desk. A desk on which no computer sits but a stack of clean pink billing papers hangs to the left of the desktop. He has no plans to buy a computer. He orders parts from salvage yards in Iowa and Minnesota by phone. He does, however, have a new video camera with a snake-like exten-
sion he can use to travel into small crevices and tight spots in an engine so he can see what’s inside. That camera and a microfish machine are the only high-tech equipment Laugen needs. “I can’t see retiring completely,” Laugen said. “As long as I am able to physically and mentally able to do it, I will.” And as long as customers continue to use the older equipment.
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March 16, 2011 • 11
Ag quick facts
• Wear goggles or a face shield when working with pesticides.
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Ag Today
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Ag Today
10 • March 16, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Schools can participate in farm program Nevada farmer earns beef quality award Iowa schools are invited to participate in the “Wrap Your OwnIowa Grown” initiative that is being offered through the Iowa Farm to School Program. The initiative will promote the purchase of locallygrown vegetables and products to create Iowa grown wraps. “The ‘Wrap your Own-Iowa Grown’ initiative helps schools get more of the fresh fruits and vegetables that we grow here in Iowa into their meals and gets students use to choosing fresh, Iowa grown products,” Northey said. “I hope schools will consider applying and look at opportunities to use more Iowa products.” To participating in this initiative, a school’s Food Service Director must complete a onepage application that can be found on the Department’s website at www.IowaAgriculture.g ov and then clicking on the “Farm to School” link under “Hot Topics.” From the applications, ten schools will be selected to receive a $200 grant to support the purchase of locally grown (in season) fruits or vegetables. In addition, schools can compete to win a grand prize by submitting their own wrap recipe. The best wrap recipe using the most local ingredients will receive $300 for the purchase of fruits and vegetables. The Iowa Farm to School Program coordinator will also host an assembly and provide 25 t-shirts and
promotional items to the winning school. All winning schools will also receive: “Wrap Your OwnIowa Grown” wrap paper List of growers/producers/distributors that have Iowa products Recipes for different kinds of wraps to distribute to your students “Now That’s a Wrap” contest Iowa students are also invited to participate by using their photography skills to capture the best looking fruits and vegetables in Iowa. The “Now That’s a Wrap” contest will recognize two students that submit the best photos. The winners will receive a Wrap Your Own Tshirt and their picture
will be placed on display at the Iowa Department of Agriculture’s website and be used in future promotions. More information and an application can also be found on the “Farm to School” page at www.IowaAgriculture.g ov. The submission deadline is May 1, 2011. The photo and application can be emailed to emily.wadle@iowaagriculture.gov or mailed to IDALS-Organics Dept., Attn: Emily Wadle (F2S), 502 E. 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319. The “Wrap Your Own-Iowa Grown” is an initiative of the Iowa Farm to School Program that was started in the fall of 2009.
Bill Couser, cattle feeder from Nevada, was named the 2011 Iowa Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Award winner for his commitment to beef quality assurance while operating a sustainable cattle operation. Couser, wife Nancy and son Tim operate Couser Cattle Company. They were honored at the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association Annual Convention in Ottumwa, Iowa, on Feb. 25. “We as Iowa cattlemen have a responsibility to maintain and uphold consumer perceptions of beef as one of the safest and highest quality products for their family. As livestock producers we pledge to continue this feeling of security through BQA programs, and ensure that producers are continuously educated on sound science production practices,” said Bill
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Couser, a fourth generation cattle feeder. Couser Cattle Company is a familyowned feedlot with a 3500 head capacity. Couser and his feedlot manager, Adrian Meyer, work as a team when managing the feedlot which has been updated to improve performance, to adapt to changing environmental requirements and to enhance animal welfare for the cattle operation. Couser embraces BQA concepts by ensuring that his employees are BQAtrained. A relationship with Iowa State University veterinarians helps ensure his health treatment protocols adhere to BQA guidelines and techniques. Regularly scheduled visits by consulting nutritionists ensure safety and quality of feed rations.
March 16, 2011• 3
Cattle have been calling for couple Bomans raise herd in rural Forest City BY RAE YOST FOREST CITY - The smiles come easily as Steve Boman talks about working with cattle. He and his wife Bev have had cattle on their farm near Forest City for more than 30 years. Boman had cattle before that and grew up on farm with cattle. He raises angus cattle on pasture land near the back side of Pilot Knob State Park. “I like it,” Boman said. “As soon I as I was able to do any chores I was pretty much responsible for doing cattle chores. “Cattle, they have personality,” Boman said. “You put 50 cows with calves in a pasture and all every mother knows her calf.” “The cows know him,” Bev said. While he enjoys the personalities of the cattle, Boman also likes the consistency of raising cattle. “You develop a pattern and a schedule. I like that,” Boman said. “There is always a certain satisfaction in knowing the chores are done.” Boman continues to do cattle chores but, at 67, he’s gradually reduced his herd. Boman had 76 head of cattle and three bulls on about 150 acres of pasture at his peak. He provided breeding stock to farmers in the region and also raised his calves to feeder calves eventually sold as baby beef on the market. “Now, I’m down to 13 cows,” Boman said. “I haven’t replacing them as they get older.” The cattle graze on about 65 acres of pasture but they’ve spent much of the winter near a windbreak and cement area where they are fed a mix of grain and hay. “Right now I feed them hay once every third day and in the morning each day I feed them corn,” Boman said. Although he’s reduced his herd, the calves will still come this spring. “The majority of my cows were born in 2001,”
641-843-4422
Each bushel of corn can produce 2.8 gallons of ethanol and 17 pounds of distillers grains.
Distillers grains are available from ethanol plants in a number of different forms.
Photo by Rae Yost
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Steve and Bev Boman raise cattle near Forest City.
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Ag Today
News-Tribune • Summit
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Ag Today
Summit • News-Tribune
Local meat lockers provide a site for Iowa-grown food BILL NORTHEY, IOWA SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE Iowa is a great agriculture state, but it is also easy to forget that means we are a great food state. The products raised on our farms are found throughout your local grocery store and on your dinner plate. Iowa’s livestock farmers produce a lot of that food for us in Iowa and also for people around the world. Our state leads the nation in pork production and is in the top ten in production of beef. And, that delicious corn-fed Iowa beef or a juicy Iowa pork chop are recognized across the globe as the standard of high-quality, flavorful meat. One option to get more of these Iowa-grown products in your diet is to visit your local meat locker. Iowa currently has 164 Iowa Inspected establishments serving the people of Iowa. This includes sixtyeight “official establishments” that are able to directly sell their products, labeled “Iowa Inspected and Passed,” within the state. There are also eighty-six “custom exempt establishments” that slaughter and process livestock, poultry, and wild game for the owner’s exclusive use and are labeled NOT FOR SALE. Custom exempt establishments are also allowed to purchase inspected products for further processing and sale to the household consumer. In addition, 10 plants are able slaughter poultry, either on a custom basis for the animal’s owner or as an official establishment where they can offer it for sale. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s Meat and Poultry Inspection Bureau licenses and inspects these facilities to ensure the products are safe and the plants are following all mandatory requirements. The requirements at “official” establishments include inspection at slaughter for all livestock and poultry, conducting mandated daily inspection for further processing, and ensuring the facilities are properly maintained.
Custom exempt plants work for the animal’s owner and are inspected under a Risk Based Inspection Program but are inspected at least quarterly by the Department. Official establishments can also do custom work as long as they keep all the official inspected meat products separate from the custom meat products throughout the entire process. In 2010 official establishments slaughtered and processed approximately 92,000 head of livestock and domestic poultry (84,000 poultry/7,700 livestock), with all of the resulting products sold in Iowa. Custom exempt slaughter and pro-
Iowa has 164 Iowa Inspected establishments. — BILL NORTHEY
So, whether you are looking for a side of beef to fill your freezer before the summer grilling season or you are just looking for a couple of pork chops to enjoy, consider finding the locker plant near you. It is a great way to get
safe, high-quality meat while supporting your local community. Plus, your taste buds will certainly thank you as enjoy one of the many foods Iowa does such a great job producing.
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cessing accounts for an additional larger number of animals slaughtered and processed for Iowa families to use exclusively in their homes. The basic difference between state and federal inspection is that state inspected and passed products are not allowed in interstate commerce or export. To sell meat across state line, or internationally, a plant needs to be inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS). All plants, both state and federally inspected, are licensed by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. A full list of all the meat processing plants in Iowa, searchable by plant name, city or county, is available on our Department’s website so you can find a facility close to you. The directory is available by going to www.IowaAgriculture.gov and selecting the “Bureaus” link on the left sideof the page. Then choose “Meat & Poultry Inspection,” which will take you to a link where you can choose the “Iowa Licensed Meat and Poultry Plants.”
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Ag Today
News-Tribune • Summit
Couple enjoy the work, reward involved with raising cattle over 30 years on the farm CATTLE: FROM P.3
Boman said. “This will be their eighth calf. Every cow has a personality. We usually try to keep heifer calves that are quiet. You don’t have as many problems that way.” The cows are experienced at giving birth but there still may be a problem. “Only once in a while,” Boman said. A calf may be born breach and that requires more help from Boman, who will use equipment to help remove the calf from the mother. “Calving is really a neat experience,” Bev said.But, “when he loses a calf, that’s really hard on him,” Bev said. Boman will review all the steps to see if he could have done something different, she said. The couple watches the calves grow until they are ready to head to the pasture. “I like it when the calves are out in the back area before they go to pasture,” Bev said. “There is something really pretty about cattle near the green grass.” Over the years Boman has provided farmers with cattle to finish as feeders or to add to their own breeding stock. “This is the first year I haven’t sold a bull,” Boman said. “I’d sell one or two at a time and I really enjoyed it.” “One of the most satisfying parts of raising cattle was to know the people I sold breeding stock to were satisfied with what they (got).” Boman used artificial insemination to expand the bloodlines of his own stock. While he has registered angus and keeps records he doesn’t keep the detailed production records including birth weights and other details of each calf. Some buyers won’t buy unless a seller can provide those details but Boman had business without it. And now, he’s not inclined to start with such records, he said. For years the cattle production was a famiy operation. The Bomans each had four children when they married more than 30 years ago. The children helped to bale hay and do other chores on the farm.
March 16, 2011 • 9
Ag quick fact on farms •From the Iowa Dept. of Agriculture Total annual cattle and calves marketed (2006) 2.35 million
head Cattle and calves, cash receipts (2006) $2.55 billion Milk Production
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The Bomans Those were the days when farmers baled smaller bales that needed to be stacked on a hayrack and, then, stacked in a barn or shed. “We’d bale 1,000 to 1,500 bales a day,” Boman said. They’d bale about 10,000 bales each year. Those bales were stacked by hand on a rack and stacked by hand in the barn. Those smaller, numerous bales have been replaced by much larger round bales that are handled by equipment. “If we hadn’t had a round baler, I’d been out of the cattle business a long time ago,” Boman said. “We had a pasture land down the road from us,” Bev said. “We had a couple of horses when the kids were here. We’d move cattle from one pasture to the other right on the county road. We had to hold up traffic.” Bev would park a vehicle on one end of the road to stop traffic while her mother-in-law park on the opposite end of the road to stop traffic from the other direction. “The cows knew right where they were going,” Bev said. Although the Bomans have reduced the size of the cattle herd, they plan to continue raising cattle Yet, “I’m kind of coasting out of it,” Bomans said.
Join us on March 16, 11am - 1pm at Farmers Co-op Association for our Farmers Appreciation Luncheon in Forest City!
101 Hwy. 69 N., Forest City 641-585-3247 • FAX 585-3907 11723 Hwy 9, Thompson 641-584-2275 • FAX 584-2575 MS-23106
4 • March 16, 2011
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Ag Today
8 • March 16, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Ag Today
News-Tribune • Summit
Bankers say it may be time to make that purchase BY MEGAN VERHELST
review their other agricultural needs. “If they’re thinking about improving a piece of equipment, constructing a new building or making a land purchase, we talk to them about that,” Barber said. Mike Koch, agricultural lender with MBT, said he sees a variety of individuals representing both farming corporations and private operations come through the doors of his institution in search of the right financing. “We are seeing a lot of equipment purchases or people financing equipment,” Koch said. “Land is different – purchases are limited now due to the higher price of land right now.” Recently, Barber has seen many farmers come in looking for their operations to become “corporate entities.” “This is becoming more common for farmers,” Barber said. “It helps them take advantage of tax incentives and also attempts to limit liability of a particular individual.” Many also are taking advantage of low rates to complete projects that were pushed aside for many years, Barber said.
If you are a farmer thinking about that next big equipment or land purchase, now is the time to make it happen. Loan interest rates at many local banks are at a desirable low, but they may not stay that way for long. “Now is a great time in agriculture – this is a good time for those who are established to look down the road to expand,” said Jon Rollefson, vice president at Farmer’s Trust & Savings Bank. “Rates are at a good point, but are starting to increase. “Some of the longer term money is up about a half-percent.” FTSB, a bank that specializes in agricultural lending, currently is offering several loans with interest rates between 4.5 through 6 percent. FTSB also offers loans for farm operation as well as equipment and land purchases. Rollefson said the bank “over specializes” in FSA guarantees, a program catering to young farmers. Other financial institutions in the area, including First State Bank in Britt and Manufacturers Bank & Trust in Forest City, offer loans for similar agricultural needs. “Most of the (needs) we see here are financing annual operating expenses for farmers,” said Steve Barber, senior vice president at First State Bank. “We also deal with crop Jon Rollefson input financing and operating lines of credit.” Barber said area farmers usually review their annual expenses and determine how much they will need to get them through the next year. Once that is completed, farmers will visit their bank of choice. Visiting with a banker, Barber said, also gives farmers an opportunity to
Others have seen an increase in farmers looking to upgrade technology within their operations. “More people are doing more with GPS by using it to plant or outfit their equipment,” Rollefson said. “It’s a fascinating concept.” But despite the low interest rates on agricultural loans, Rollefson said he actually has seen a decrease in operation lending the past couple years. “These last years have been unique as farmers have had good years and haven’t had to borrow as much,” he said. This also is not the best time for young farmers looking to start their own operation, Rollefson said, due to the high cost of land and equipment. But established farmers continue to take advantage of the low rates, whether it’s to make a new purchase or refinance an existing loan. And farmers should keep a few things in mind before visiting their bank
If it’s time to upgrade your equipment or facilities, visit with our experienced lenders. We’ll help you make the right choice for your operation. We’ve got great rates, flexible terms and fast service. Our staff knows your time is important and we’ll do our best to get you what you need to make your operation successful.
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of choice. Farmers should make sure their new purchase will add equity to their existing operations, Rollefson said. They also should be careful not to overextend themselves financially when making a purchase or taking out a loan, Koch said. Rollefson and Barber agreed. “They should work through a cash flow that would support or prove it fits in their budget,” Barber said. “That’s something they can do with their lender – make sure it’s something that’s logical and fits financially into their farm operation.”
Make the Right Choice for Your Farming Operation!
Britt, Iowa 641-843-3894; Mon.-Fri. 8-:30; Sat. 8-4 WEB SITE: swensondoitbest.com
March 16, 2011 • 5
CORN IS IN THINGS YOU USE EVERYDAY!
Photo by Rae Yost
The Knudtson family is the fourth generation to live on the family farm in Winnebago County. Back from left, Brian and Carmen. Front, Truman and Kalin.
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Staying in the family Knudtson operates family farm while working as banker BY RAE YOST WINNEBAGO COUNTY - When he works with his dad Robert in the field these days, Brian Knudtson often hears stories of how the work was completed when Robert and his siblings were young. “What’s fun is to hear him talk about old times on the farm,” Knudtson said of the time spent with his dad. “You get to hear these stories out of the blue...” Knudtson wasn’t so sure he’d be able to hear such stories five years ago when his dad became seriously ill with kidney cancer. After a battle with the illness, his dad has recovered enough to work in the field and share his stories. During that time his son Brian has moved his family to the family farm and become the fourth generation to live there and farm the fields. Knudtson has also forged a new career as an ag lender with Manufacturer’s Bank and Trust of Lake Mills as he has taken roots deeper into the farm.
“If you had told me 16 years ago I’d be living on the farm and working in a bank, I would have laughed,” Knudtson said. “That would have been the fartherest thing from my mind, doing this today.” But, life changes. As his eyes fill with tears, it’s clear Knudtson appreciates the life he’s come to have. The farm he now shares with his wife Carmen and children Truman and Kalin and the life he shares with his dad. “It’s fun to see my dad still out there,” Knudtson said of when his dad is working on the farm. With each story he hears from his dad and with each spring and fall, Knudtson seems to be more firmly rooted in the farm. Those roots are deep. Knudtson can look in any direction from his farm yard and knows that his relatives have farmed or still farm many of the acres within a few miles of his farm. “My dad is very proud for us to be SEE FAMILY, P.8
www.mbtbank.com
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Lake Mills 641-592-0041
Forest City 641-585-5363
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Ag Today
6 • March 16, 2011
News-Tribune • Summit
Farm, job require a balance for Knudtson, his family able to live here and see the fourth generation be here,” Knudtson said. “There is a lot of history here. As you get older, your history, your roots start to become an important part of life.” Knudtson credits his parents, his own family, his employer, MBT, and those he works with at the bank and on the farm for making it possible for him to continue the family tradition. He’s fortunate to have that support. The bank job fits the farm life because often when he’s busy in the spring and fall on the farm, so are his customers. He still visits them during the busy planting and harvest season and exchanges cell phone calls but the schedule allows him to be at the farm. “Fortunately as the farm season roles around, I’ve got darn good help here,” Knudtson said of those who work for him on the farm. He likes the bank work and the farm work. “I think being in a bank helps me stay in tune with the every changing climate we live with,” Knudtson said. The physical work of the farm is a change of pace from the bank work, Knudtson said. Yet, there can be challenges to both working a full time job away from the farm and maintaining the famly farm.
“Some days...,” Carmen Knudtson said. “Like the need for being in 20 places at one time. That’s hard to do.” She didn’t grow up on a farm and she’s learning more about the life. “It’s been eye-opening...,” Carmen Knudtson said. But the life and the opportunities have been good, Carmen Knudtson said. “I think he’s done an outstanding job....everyone’s plate can get too full but he does a good job,” Carmen Knudtson said of Brian. When planting and harvest arrive, “it’s kind of fun,” she said. “We have these really big suppers and it’s fun to cook for such a large group. The kids love to eat out in the field and they like to eat inside with all the guys.” The kids said they too enjoy the farm life. “Just going outside to play wherever I want, the open space,” Kalin Knudtson said of one thing she likes. Truman likes riding the all-terrian vehicle and riding in the tractor. Will those kids someday continue the family farming tradition? “Farming’s going to be a way of life forever,” Knudtson said. “Somebody’s going to have to do it. I’d surely like to see my kids do that if there is any possible way, I’d like to facilitate that,” Knudtson said.
Photo by Rae Yost
Brian Knudtson points to an old photo of the family home. The photos hang inside his home.
“Big & Small, We Have Them All”
MCNEESE TIRE
The Winnebago County Extension will hold a Private Pesticide Applicator’s Recertification Program at 7 p.m. April 7 in the community room of Titonka Savings Bank in Forest City. This training is for all private pesticide applicators needing two hours of continuing education training to maintain their certification. Carol Peterson, County Extension Director, and Paul Kassel, Extension Crops Field Specialist, will conduct the pesticide training. Participants are asked to arrive early for registration as there will be a $20 fee for the training. Cancellation due to weather will be announced on KIOW-FM (107.3) radio. Please listen if the weather or travel is questionable.Call the Winnebago County Extension office in Thompson toll-free 1888-408-6606 or 584-2261 for more information.
Call Now for your Spring Tiling Needs
We are gearing up for when the frost goes out!
CARS & TRUCKS FARM EQUIPMENT DUALS & HUBS We Service What We Sell!
Holland Contracting is equipped.
Emergency Service Available
641-843-3536 MS-23484
FAMILY: FROM P. 5
Pesticide training class to be offered April 7 in Forest City
1 1/2 Miles West of Britt - 725 Hwy. 18 • Britt, Iowa Mon.-Fri. 8 AM-5:00 PM Sat. by appt.
Ag Today
News-Tribune • Summit
March 16, 2011• 7
He’s making it work... Laugen repairs farm tractors, equipment BY RAE YOST LELAND - The smell of grease and oil greet the customers who walk through the door of Laugen Equipment Repair in rural Leland. Although owner Howard Laugen may not completely agree, tools and equipment are neatly arranged and the cement floor is free of debris. During a recent afternoon, two tractors filled most of the space inside Laugen’s shed. Laugen had a front wheel removed from one tractor and the power shift pulled from the other tractor. It’s a shop scene that’s been typical of Laugen’s work for the past 20 years. Laugen completed two years of vocational school in Austin, Minn., and worked for two implement dealers for several years before he started farming. He farmed for about 19 years but “I wasn’t smart enough or brave enough to get big, so I just stayed small but you just can’t make a go of it...,” Laugen said.
A full-time job at an industrial plant didn’t appeal to him so he turned to what he’d been doing since he completed school in Austin, fixing tractors and equipment. “I farmed for quite a few years and did a little bit of repairs on the side,” Laugen said. “I didn’t buy very expensive equipment so I did a lot of fixing.” He’s made a “pretty good” living with the repair work. The work is varied but there is one common denominator. Laugen doesn’t work on newer equipment that requires computerized diagnostics. “i’m just old-fashioned,” Laugen said. “I have no interest in it.” He doesn’t want to invest in several thousand dollars worth of equipment that is required for each make of tractor. “If you buy one for a Case IH, it won’t work for a John Deere,” he said. Laugen’s choice to stick with older equipment has kept him busy. “There is still quite a
few of the older tractors around,” Laugen said. Farmers in their 50s and 60s have some of the older equipment as do younger farmers, he said. The older tractors may be used to run a power take off or PTOoperated corn dryer, a grain auger, as a yard tractor and the like. “The little ones, they can have a belly mower attached if someone has a large lawn, they mow with it,” Laugen said. Laugen had two Case IH tractors inside his shed recently. An 800 model is owned by a local tiling company, he said. The other tractor is owned by a farmer who uses it for spraying crops, Laugen said. Some jobs are simple but time consuming. Even changing oil on a tractor takes time, he said. An 800 Case IH, for example, takes about 20
Photo by Rae Yost
Laugen works on a part for a tractor. gallons of oil. The transmission, hydraulics and torque converter all take oil, he said. “It’s expensive,” Laugen said of the oil required to fill a tractor. Some jobs are time consuming and challenging. Laugen had a job this winter that required him to dismantle the tractor’s entire rear end to exam and repair brakes, the transmission and SEE REPAIR, P.11
YOUR COMPLETE
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712 HWY. 18 East Clear Lake, IA 50428 (641) 357-1161
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE: www.nccoop.com
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Follow local news in the NewsTribune and Summit each week
1400 South 4th St., Forest City MS-23105
641-585-2231
MS-23489
KANAWHA: 800-640-3716 HUTCHINS: 800-222-7490 WODEN: 800-222-7479
JIM CRONE SEEDS 3315 ECHO AVENUE, WODEN, IOWA 50484 641.926.5563
MS-23458
MS-24962
Ag Today
6 • March 16, 2011
News-Tribune • Summit
Farm, job require a balance for Knudtson, his family able to live here and see the fourth generation be here,” Knudtson said. “There is a lot of history here. As you get older, your history, your roots start to become an important part of life.” Knudtson credits his parents, his own family, his employer, MBT, and those he works with at the bank and on the farm for making it possible for him to continue the family tradition. He’s fortunate to have that support. The bank job fits the farm life because often when he’s busy in the spring and fall on the farm, so are his customers. He still visits them during the busy planting and harvest season and exchanges cell phone calls but the schedule allows him to be at the farm. “Fortunately as the farm season roles around, I’ve got darn good help here,” Knudtson said of those who work for him on the farm. He likes the bank work and the farm work. “I think being in a bank helps me stay in tune with the every changing climate we live with,” Knudtson said. The physical work of the farm is a change of pace from the bank work, Knudtson said. Yet, there can be challenges to both working a full time job away from the farm and maintaining the famly farm.
“Some days...,” Carmen Knudtson said. “Like the need for being in 20 places at one time. That’s hard to do.” She didn’t grow up on a farm and she’s learning more about the life. “It’s been eye-opening...,” Carmen Knudtson said. But the life and the opportunities have been good, Carmen Knudtson said. “I think he’s done an outstanding job....everyone’s plate can get too full but he does a good job,” Carmen Knudtson said of Brian. When planting and harvest arrive, “it’s kind of fun,” she said. “We have these really big suppers and it’s fun to cook for such a large group. The kids love to eat out in the field and they like to eat inside with all the guys.” The kids said they too enjoy the farm life. “Just going outside to play wherever I want, the open space,” Kalin Knudtson said of one thing she likes. Truman likes riding the all-terrian vehicle and riding in the tractor. Will those kids someday continue the family farming tradition? “Farming’s going to be a way of life forever,” Knudtson said. “Somebody’s going to have to do it. I’d surely like to see my kids do that if there is any possible way, I’d like to facilitate that,” Knudtson said.
Photo by Rae Yost
Brian Knudtson points to an old photo of the family home. The photos hang inside his home.
“Big & Small, We Have Them All”
MCNEESE TIRE
The Winnebago County Extension will hold a Private Pesticide Applicator’s Recertification Program at 7 p.m. April 7 in the community room of Titonka Savings Bank in Forest City. This training is for all private pesticide applicators needing two hours of continuing education training to maintain their certification. Carol Peterson, County Extension Director, and Paul Kassel, Extension Crops Field Specialist, will conduct the pesticide training. Participants are asked to arrive early for registration as there will be a $20 fee for the training. Cancellation due to weather will be announced on KIOW-FM (107.3) radio. Please listen if the weather or travel is questionable.Call the Winnebago County Extension office in Thompson toll-free 1888-408-6606 or 584-2261 for more information.
Call Now for your Spring Tiling Needs
We are gearing up for when the frost goes out!
CARS & TRUCKS FARM EQUIPMENT DUALS & HUBS We Service What We Sell!
Holland Contracting is equipped.
Emergency Service Available
641-843-3536 MS-23484
FAMILY: FROM P. 5
Pesticide training class to be offered April 7 in Forest City
1 1/2 Miles West of Britt - 725 Hwy. 18 • Britt, Iowa Mon.-Fri. 8 AM-5:00 PM Sat. by appt.
Ag Today
News-Tribune • Summit
March 16, 2011• 7
He’s making it work... Laugen repairs farm tractors, equipment BY RAE YOST LELAND - The smell of grease and oil greet the customers who walk through the door of Laugen Equipment Repair in rural Leland. Although owner Howard Laugen may not completely agree, tools and equipment are neatly arranged and the cement floor is free of debris. During a recent afternoon, two tractors filled most of the space inside Laugen’s shed. Laugen had a front wheel removed from one tractor and the power shift pulled from the other tractor. It’s a shop scene that’s been typical of Laugen’s work for the past 20 years. Laugen completed two years of vocational school in Austin, Minn., and worked for two implement dealers for several years before he started farming. He farmed for about 19 years but “I wasn’t smart enough or brave enough to get big, so I just stayed small but you just can’t make a go of it...,” Laugen said.
A full-time job at an industrial plant didn’t appeal to him so he turned to what he’d been doing since he completed school in Austin, fixing tractors and equipment. “I farmed for quite a few years and did a little bit of repairs on the side,” Laugen said. “I didn’t buy very expensive equipment so I did a lot of fixing.” He’s made a “pretty good” living with the repair work. The work is varied but there is one common denominator. Laugen doesn’t work on newer equipment that requires computerized diagnostics. “i’m just old-fashioned,” Laugen said. “I have no interest in it.” He doesn’t want to invest in several thousand dollars worth of equipment that is required for each make of tractor. “If you buy one for a Case IH, it won’t work for a John Deere,” he said. Laugen’s choice to stick with older equipment has kept him busy. “There is still quite a
few of the older tractors around,” Laugen said. Farmers in their 50s and 60s have some of the older equipment as do younger farmers, he said. The older tractors may be used to run a power take off or PTOoperated corn dryer, a grain auger, as a yard tractor and the like. “The little ones, they can have a belly mower attached if someone has a large lawn, they mow with it,” Laugen said. Laugen had two Case IH tractors inside his shed recently. An 800 model is owned by a local tiling company, he said. The other tractor is owned by a farmer who uses it for spraying crops, Laugen said. Some jobs are simple but time consuming. Even changing oil on a tractor takes time, he said. An 800 Case IH, for example, takes about 20
Photo by Rae Yost
Laugen works on a part for a tractor. gallons of oil. The transmission, hydraulics and torque converter all take oil, he said. “It’s expensive,” Laugen said of the oil required to fill a tractor. Some jobs are time consuming and challenging. Laugen had a job this winter that required him to dismantle the tractor’s entire rear end to exam and repair brakes, the transmission and SEE REPAIR, P.11
YOUR COMPLETE
Call us today at 641-585-2231 for Reliable, Experienced Services!
SEED HEADQUARTERS
712 HWY. 18 East Clear Lake, IA 50428 (641) 357-1161
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE: www.nccoop.com
WE WANT YOUR BUSINESS!
Follow local news in the NewsTribune and Summit each week
1400 South 4th St., Forest City MS-23105
641-585-2231
MS-23489
KANAWHA: 800-640-3716 HUTCHINS: 800-222-7490 WODEN: 800-222-7479
JIM CRONE SEEDS 3315 ECHO AVENUE, WODEN, IOWA 50484 641.926.5563
MS-23458
MS-24962
Ag Today
8 • March 16, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Ag Today
News-Tribune • Summit
Bankers say it may be time to make that purchase BY MEGAN VERHELST
review their other agricultural needs. “If they’re thinking about improving a piece of equipment, constructing a new building or making a land purchase, we talk to them about that,” Barber said. Mike Koch, agricultural lender with MBT, said he sees a variety of individuals representing both farming corporations and private operations come through the doors of his institution in search of the right financing. “We are seeing a lot of equipment purchases or people financing equipment,” Koch said. “Land is different – purchases are limited now due to the higher price of land right now.” Recently, Barber has seen many farmers come in looking for their operations to become “corporate entities.” “This is becoming more common for farmers,” Barber said. “It helps them take advantage of tax incentives and also attempts to limit liability of a particular individual.” Many also are taking advantage of low rates to complete projects that were pushed aside for many years, Barber said.
If you are a farmer thinking about that next big equipment or land purchase, now is the time to make it happen. Loan interest rates at many local banks are at a desirable low, but they may not stay that way for long. “Now is a great time in agriculture – this is a good time for those who are established to look down the road to expand,” said Jon Rollefson, vice president at Farmer’s Trust & Savings Bank. “Rates are at a good point, but are starting to increase. “Some of the longer term money is up about a half-percent.” FTSB, a bank that specializes in agricultural lending, currently is offering several loans with interest rates between 4.5 through 6 percent. FTSB also offers loans for farm operation as well as equipment and land purchases. Rollefson said the bank “over specializes” in FSA guarantees, a program catering to young farmers. Other financial institutions in the area, including First State Bank in Britt and Manufacturers Bank & Trust in Forest City, offer loans for similar agricultural needs. “Most of the (needs) we see here are financing annual operating expenses for farmers,” said Steve Barber, senior vice president at First State Bank. “We also deal with crop Jon Rollefson input financing and operating lines of credit.” Barber said area farmers usually review their annual expenses and determine how much they will need to get them through the next year. Once that is completed, farmers will visit their bank of choice. Visiting with a banker, Barber said, also gives farmers an opportunity to
Others have seen an increase in farmers looking to upgrade technology within their operations. “More people are doing more with GPS by using it to plant or outfit their equipment,” Rollefson said. “It’s a fascinating concept.” But despite the low interest rates on agricultural loans, Rollefson said he actually has seen a decrease in operation lending the past couple years. “These last years have been unique as farmers have had good years and haven’t had to borrow as much,” he said. This also is not the best time for young farmers looking to start their own operation, Rollefson said, due to the high cost of land and equipment. But established farmers continue to take advantage of the low rates, whether it’s to make a new purchase or refinance an existing loan. And farmers should keep a few things in mind before visiting their bank
If it’s time to upgrade your equipment or facilities, visit with our experienced lenders. We’ll help you make the right choice for your operation. We’ve got great rates, flexible terms and fast service. Our staff knows your time is important and we’ll do our best to get you what you need to make your operation successful.
Rob Willms
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MS-22608
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of choice. Farmers should make sure their new purchase will add equity to their existing operations, Rollefson said. They also should be careful not to overextend themselves financially when making a purchase or taking out a loan, Koch said. Rollefson and Barber agreed. “They should work through a cash flow that would support or prove it fits in their budget,” Barber said. “That’s something they can do with their lender – make sure it’s something that’s logical and fits financially into their farm operation.”
Make the Right Choice for Your Farming Operation!
Britt, Iowa 641-843-3894; Mon.-Fri. 8-:30; Sat. 8-4 WEB SITE: swensondoitbest.com
March 16, 2011 • 5
CORN IS IN THINGS YOU USE EVERYDAY!
Photo by Rae Yost
The Knudtson family is the fourth generation to live on the family farm in Winnebago County. Back from left, Brian and Carmen. Front, Truman and Kalin.
• Batteries • Cardboard • Bookbinding • Cleaners • Crayons • Chalk/Paints • Paper/Plastic • Ceiling Tile • Chewing Gum • Soap • Shoe Polish • Twine
• Window Shades • Cosmetics • Instant Coffee • Twix Bar • Cake Mixes • Varnish • Aspirin • Tire Rubber • Toothpaste • Whiskey • Ketchup • Baby Food
• Mayonnaise • Carpet • Licorice • Wallpaper • Yogurts • Shaving Cream • Spark Plugs • Diapers • Fiber Glass • Film • Fruit Juices • Aluminum
Staying in the family Knudtson operates family farm while working as banker BY RAE YOST WINNEBAGO COUNTY - When he works with his dad Robert in the field these days, Brian Knudtson often hears stories of how the work was completed when Robert and his siblings were young. “What’s fun is to hear him talk about old times on the farm,” Knudtson said of the time spent with his dad. “You get to hear these stories out of the blue...” Knudtson wasn’t so sure he’d be able to hear such stories five years ago when his dad became seriously ill with kidney cancer. After a battle with the illness, his dad has recovered enough to work in the field and share his stories. During that time his son Brian has moved his family to the family farm and become the fourth generation to live there and farm the fields. Knudtson has also forged a new career as an ag lender with Manufacturer’s Bank and Trust of Lake Mills as he has taken roots deeper into the farm.
“If you had told me 16 years ago I’d be living on the farm and working in a bank, I would have laughed,” Knudtson said. “That would have been the fartherest thing from my mind, doing this today.” But, life changes. As his eyes fill with tears, it’s clear Knudtson appreciates the life he’s come to have. The farm he now shares with his wife Carmen and children Truman and Kalin and the life he shares with his dad. “It’s fun to see my dad still out there,” Knudtson said of when his dad is working on the farm. With each story he hears from his dad and with each spring and fall, Knudtson seems to be more firmly rooted in the farm. Those roots are deep. Knudtson can look in any direction from his farm yard and knows that his relatives have farmed or still farm many of the acres within a few miles of his farm. “My dad is very proud for us to be SEE FAMILY, P.8
www.mbtbank.com
Clear Lake 641-357-6161
Lake Mills 641-592-0041
Forest City 641-585-5363
Crystal Lake 641-565-3231
Member FDIC
Ag Today
Summit • News-Tribune
Local meat lockers provide a site for Iowa-grown food BILL NORTHEY, IOWA SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE Iowa is a great agriculture state, but it is also easy to forget that means we are a great food state. The products raised on our farms are found throughout your local grocery store and on your dinner plate. Iowa’s livestock farmers produce a lot of that food for us in Iowa and also for people around the world. Our state leads the nation in pork production and is in the top ten in production of beef. And, that delicious corn-fed Iowa beef or a juicy Iowa pork chop are recognized across the globe as the standard of high-quality, flavorful meat. One option to get more of these Iowa-grown products in your diet is to visit your local meat locker. Iowa currently has 164 Iowa Inspected establishments serving the people of Iowa. This includes sixtyeight “official establishments” that are able to directly sell their products, labeled “Iowa Inspected and Passed,” within the state. There are also eighty-six “custom exempt establishments” that slaughter and process livestock, poultry, and wild game for the owner’s exclusive use and are labeled NOT FOR SALE. Custom exempt establishments are also allowed to purchase inspected products for further processing and sale to the household consumer. In addition, 10 plants are able slaughter poultry, either on a custom basis for the animal’s owner or as an official establishment where they can offer it for sale. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s Meat and Poultry Inspection Bureau licenses and inspects these facilities to ensure the products are safe and the plants are following all mandatory requirements. The requirements at “official” establishments include inspection at slaughter for all livestock and poultry, conducting mandated daily inspection for further processing, and ensuring the facilities are properly maintained.
Custom exempt plants work for the animal’s owner and are inspected under a Risk Based Inspection Program but are inspected at least quarterly by the Department. Official establishments can also do custom work as long as they keep all the official inspected meat products separate from the custom meat products throughout the entire process. In 2010 official establishments slaughtered and processed approximately 92,000 head of livestock and domestic poultry (84,000 poultry/7,700 livestock), with all of the resulting products sold in Iowa. Custom exempt slaughter and pro-
Iowa has 164 Iowa Inspected establishments. — BILL NORTHEY
So, whether you are looking for a side of beef to fill your freezer before the summer grilling season or you are just looking for a couple of pork chops to enjoy, consider finding the locker plant near you. It is a great way to get
safe, high-quality meat while supporting your local community. Plus, your taste buds will certainly thank you as enjoy one of the many foods Iowa does such a great job producing.
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cessing accounts for an additional larger number of animals slaughtered and processed for Iowa families to use exclusively in their homes. The basic difference between state and federal inspection is that state inspected and passed products are not allowed in interstate commerce or export. To sell meat across state line, or internationally, a plant needs to be inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS). All plants, both state and federally inspected, are licensed by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. A full list of all the meat processing plants in Iowa, searchable by plant name, city or county, is available on our Department’s website so you can find a facility close to you. The directory is available by going to www.IowaAgriculture.gov and selecting the “Bureaus” link on the left sideof the page. Then choose “Meat & Poultry Inspection,” which will take you to a link where you can choose the “Iowa Licensed Meat and Poultry Plants.”
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FARMERS CO-OP ASSN. FOREST CITY • LELAND • KIESTER, MINN. 641-585-2814 • 800-483-6832 • 507-294-9900 MS-23085
Ag Today
News-Tribune • Summit
Couple enjoy the work, reward involved with raising cattle over 30 years on the farm CATTLE: FROM P.3
Boman said. “This will be their eighth calf. Every cow has a personality. We usually try to keep heifer calves that are quiet. You don’t have as many problems that way.” The cows are experienced at giving birth but there still may be a problem. “Only once in a while,” Boman said. A calf may be born breach and that requires more help from Boman, who will use equipment to help remove the calf from the mother. “Calving is really a neat experience,” Bev said.But, “when he loses a calf, that’s really hard on him,” Bev said. Boman will review all the steps to see if he could have done something different, she said. The couple watches the calves grow until they are ready to head to the pasture. “I like it when the calves are out in the back area before they go to pasture,” Bev said. “There is something really pretty about cattle near the green grass.” Over the years Boman has provided farmers with cattle to finish as feeders or to add to their own breeding stock. “This is the first year I haven’t sold a bull,” Boman said. “I’d sell one or two at a time and I really enjoyed it.” “One of the most satisfying parts of raising cattle was to know the people I sold breeding stock to were satisfied with what they (got).” Boman used artificial insemination to expand the bloodlines of his own stock. While he has registered angus and keeps records he doesn’t keep the detailed production records including birth weights and other details of each calf. Some buyers won’t buy unless a seller can provide those details but Boman had business without it. And now, he’s not inclined to start with such records, he said. For years the cattle production was a famiy operation. The Bomans each had four children when they married more than 30 years ago. The children helped to bale hay and do other chores on the farm.
March 16, 2011 • 9
Ag quick fact on farms •From the Iowa Dept. of Agriculture Total annual cattle and calves marketed (2006) 2.35 million
head Cattle and calves, cash receipts (2006) $2.55 billion Milk Production
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The Bomans Those were the days when farmers baled smaller bales that needed to be stacked on a hayrack and, then, stacked in a barn or shed. “We’d bale 1,000 to 1,500 bales a day,” Boman said. They’d bale about 10,000 bales each year. Those bales were stacked by hand on a rack and stacked by hand in the barn. Those smaller, numerous bales have been replaced by much larger round bales that are handled by equipment. “If we hadn’t had a round baler, I’d been out of the cattle business a long time ago,” Boman said. “We had a pasture land down the road from us,” Bev said. “We had a couple of horses when the kids were here. We’d move cattle from one pasture to the other right on the county road. We had to hold up traffic.” Bev would park a vehicle on one end of the road to stop traffic while her mother-in-law park on the opposite end of the road to stop traffic from the other direction. “The cows knew right where they were going,” Bev said. Although the Bomans have reduced the size of the cattle herd, they plan to continue raising cattle Yet, “I’m kind of coasting out of it,” Bomans said.
Join us on March 16, 11am - 1pm at Farmers Co-op Association for our Farmers Appreciation Luncheon in Forest City!
101 Hwy. 69 N., Forest City 641-585-3247 • FAX 585-3907 11723 Hwy 9, Thompson 641-584-2275 • FAX 584-2575 MS-23106
4 • March 16, 2011
173 Main St. N., Titonka 515-928-2142 • FAX 928-2042
(2007) 4.28 billion pounds Dairy, cash receipts (2006) $532 million
Ag Today
10 • March 16, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Schools can participate in farm program Nevada farmer earns beef quality award Iowa schools are invited to participate in the “Wrap Your OwnIowa Grown” initiative that is being offered through the Iowa Farm to School Program. The initiative will promote the purchase of locallygrown vegetables and products to create Iowa grown wraps. “The ‘Wrap your Own-Iowa Grown’ initiative helps schools get more of the fresh fruits and vegetables that we grow here in Iowa into their meals and gets students use to choosing fresh, Iowa grown products,” Northey said. “I hope schools will consider applying and look at opportunities to use more Iowa products.” To participating in this initiative, a school’s Food Service Director must complete a onepage application that can be found on the Department’s website at www.IowaAgriculture.g ov and then clicking on the “Farm to School” link under “Hot Topics.” From the applications, ten schools will be selected to receive a $200 grant to support the purchase of locally grown (in season) fruits or vegetables. In addition, schools can compete to win a grand prize by submitting their own wrap recipe. The best wrap recipe using the most local ingredients will receive $300 for the purchase of fruits and vegetables. The Iowa Farm to School Program coordinator will also host an assembly and provide 25 t-shirts and
promotional items to the winning school. All winning schools will also receive: “Wrap Your OwnIowa Grown” wrap paper List of growers/producers/distributors that have Iowa products Recipes for different kinds of wraps to distribute to your students “Now That’s a Wrap” contest Iowa students are also invited to participate by using their photography skills to capture the best looking fruits and vegetables in Iowa. The “Now That’s a Wrap” contest will recognize two students that submit the best photos. The winners will receive a Wrap Your Own Tshirt and their picture
will be placed on display at the Iowa Department of Agriculture’s website and be used in future promotions. More information and an application can also be found on the “Farm to School” page at www.IowaAgriculture.g ov. The submission deadline is May 1, 2011. The photo and application can be emailed to emily.wadle@iowaagriculture.gov or mailed to IDALS-Organics Dept., Attn: Emily Wadle (F2S), 502 E. 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319. The “Wrap Your Own-Iowa Grown” is an initiative of the Iowa Farm to School Program that was started in the fall of 2009.
Bill Couser, cattle feeder from Nevada, was named the 2011 Iowa Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Award winner for his commitment to beef quality assurance while operating a sustainable cattle operation. Couser, wife Nancy and son Tim operate Couser Cattle Company. They were honored at the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association Annual Convention in Ottumwa, Iowa, on Feb. 25. “We as Iowa cattlemen have a responsibility to maintain and uphold consumer perceptions of beef as one of the safest and highest quality products for their family. As livestock producers we pledge to continue this feeling of security through BQA programs, and ensure that producers are continuously educated on sound science production practices,” said Bill
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Couser, a fourth generation cattle feeder. Couser Cattle Company is a familyowned feedlot with a 3500 head capacity. Couser and his feedlot manager, Adrian Meyer, work as a team when managing the feedlot which has been updated to improve performance, to adapt to changing environmental requirements and to enhance animal welfare for the cattle operation. Couser embraces BQA concepts by ensuring that his employees are BQAtrained. A relationship with Iowa State University veterinarians helps ensure his health treatment protocols adhere to BQA guidelines and techniques. Regularly scheduled visits by consulting nutritionists ensure safety and quality of feed rations.
March 16, 2011• 3
Cattle have been calling for couple Bomans raise herd in rural Forest City BY RAE YOST FOREST CITY - The smiles come easily as Steve Boman talks about working with cattle. He and his wife Bev have had cattle on their farm near Forest City for more than 30 years. Boman had cattle before that and grew up on farm with cattle. He raises angus cattle on pasture land near the back side of Pilot Knob State Park. “I like it,” Boman said. “As soon I as I was able to do any chores I was pretty much responsible for doing cattle chores. “Cattle, they have personality,” Boman said. “You put 50 cows with calves in a pasture and all every mother knows her calf.” “The cows know him,” Bev said. While he enjoys the personalities of the cattle, Boman also likes the consistency of raising cattle. “You develop a pattern and a schedule. I like that,” Boman said. “There is always a certain satisfaction in knowing the chores are done.” Boman continues to do cattle chores but, at 67, he’s gradually reduced his herd. Boman had 76 head of cattle and three bulls on about 150 acres of pasture at his peak. He provided breeding stock to farmers in the region and also raised his calves to feeder calves eventually sold as baby beef on the market. “Now, I’m down to 13 cows,” Boman said. “I haven’t replacing them as they get older.” The cattle graze on about 65 acres of pasture but they’ve spent much of the winter near a windbreak and cement area where they are fed a mix of grain and hay. “Right now I feed them hay once every third day and in the morning each day I feed them corn,” Boman said. Although he’s reduced his herd, the calves will still come this spring. “The majority of my cows were born in 2001,”
641-843-4422
Each bushel of corn can produce 2.8 gallons of ethanol and 17 pounds of distillers grains.
Distillers grains are available from ethanol plants in a number of different forms.
Photo by Rae Yost
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Ag quick fact
Steve and Bev Boman raise cattle near Forest City.
SEE CATTLE, P.9
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News-Tribune • Summit
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Ag Today
2 • March 16, 2011
Summit • News-Tribune
Specialty crop grants available in Iowa Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey said the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship will make grants available to help enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in Iowa. The Department is eligible to receive approximately $275,000 in grant funding through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program which is run by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. This is the fourth of five Specialty Crop Block Grants authorized through the Farm Bill (Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008). “These funds are available to support food safety, research and marketing efforts that will encourage Iowans to choose the products that are produced right here in our state,” Northey said. “Specialty crops are a very important part of Iowa agriculture as they allow farmers to diversify and give customers access to locally grown products.” Iowa agencies, universities, institutions, and producer, industry, and community based organizations are all eligible to apply for funding to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. In addition, single organizations, institutions, and individuals are encouraged to participate as project partners. Grant awards will be considered up to a maximum of $24,000. Grant funds shall be
used for projects that solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops that benefit the specialty crop industry as a whole and will not be awarded for projects that directly benefit a particular product or provide a profit to a single organization, institution, or individual. “Specialty Crops” that are eligible under this program are fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits and horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture. Proposals must be received by IDALS on or before 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 13, 2011. For more information
visit the IDALS Specialty Crop Block Grant program at the Department’s web site at www.IowaAgriculture.g ov/Horticulture_and_Fa rmersMarkets/specialty CropGrant.asp. The Department is also establishing a Review Committee to help review, evaluate, and make recommendations on grant proposals submitted to the Department. Those interested in participating in the Review Committee should have knowledge of specialty crops, and/or grant writing or grant management experience, and the ability to devote the
necessary time to complete the review process. Additional information about reviewer responsibilities, meeting dates and an application form can be found at www.IowaAgriculture.g ov/Horticulture_and_Fa rmersMarkets/specialty CropGrant.asp. Applications to participate in the Reviewer Committee are due by 4 p.m. Friday, April 1.
•From the Iowa Dept. of Ag. In Iowa U.S./Imperial Total number of
farms (2007) 88,400 Average farm size (2007) 356 acres
WADE THOMPSON TRUCKING & REPAIR
Photo by Rae Yost
Howard Laugen shows some of the parts included in a tractor’s power shift. Laugen said it’s surprising how many parts are involved in a tractor. Small parts are inside larger parts. Laugen has been repairing equipment since he attended a vocational college in the early 1960s.
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Laugen says repairs can take time even if they are simple REPAIR FROM P.7
other parts. A replacement part for the gears caused its own problem as it was not the correct fit for the tractor. The company had changed the gear box on the model between serial numbers, so while the part matched the model, it didn’t match the change made to the manufacture of that of serial number. “I took that rear end a part three times,” Laugen said.
Laugen described himself as a “jack of all trades, master of none.” In other words, it’s a guy who can weld, handle a wrench, poke his head inside an engine and discover what’s wrong and tear apart the engine to fix it and then, put it all back together. Oh, and fix a piece of tillage equipment if that’s needed. He still has the wrench set he bought when he entered vocational school in the fall of 1963. “I’ve added tools and equipment little by lit-
tle,” he said. Always on a cash basis, he said. Laugen has shelves of parts catalogs neatly stored on shelves. A piece of plywood on top of a base serves as his desk. A desk on which no computer sits but a stack of clean pink billing papers hangs to the left of the desktop. He has no plans to buy a computer. He orders parts from salvage yards in Iowa and Minnesota by phone. He does, however, have a new video camera with a snake-like exten-
sion he can use to travel into small crevices and tight spots in an engine so he can see what’s inside. That camera and a microfish machine are the only high-tech equipment Laugen needs. “I can’t see retiring completely,” Laugen said. “As long as I am able to physically and mentally able to do it, I will.” And as long as customers continue to use the older equipment.
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March 16, 2011 • 11
Ag quick facts
• Wear goggles or a face shield when working with pesticides.
Kevin & Shery Steenblock Mike & Sue Beukema
Ag Today
News-Tribune • Summit
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Ag Today
12 • March 16, 2011
Corn growers association adopts national ethanol policy on tax credit Iowa corn farmers joined with other farmer from 26 states representing the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) at the annual Commodity Classic meeting to determine policies for their respective organizations in 2011 and beyond. NCGA delegates adopted ethanol policy that states “NCGA supports reforming existing ethanol tax policy.Ideas to replace existing tax law, in the following priority order, should be a variable ethanol tax credit followed by an ethanol tax credit at a reduced rate.Non-tax policies should include biofuels infrastructure, higher blends, corn starch ethanol as an advanced biofuel, or favorable flexible fuel
vehicle policy.” Along with ethanol policy, representatives adopted farm bill policy that says NCGA should investigate transitioning direct payments into programs that allow producers the ability to manage risk while assuring food security. A major topic at the 2011 Commodity Classic was the current budget situation in Washington D.C. Agriculture represents less than one-half of one percent of the federal budget and farmers will do their part in strengthening the U.S. economy as shown already by cutting more than $4 billion in spending on agriculture programs this fiscal year. “Corn farmers are moving forward to shape our farm and ethanol
policies to work with the current political and budget situation in Washington to continue our successes in providing food, fuel, feed and fiber to America and the world,” said Dean Taylor, Iowa Corn Growers Association President and a farmer from Prairie City.
Summit • News-Tribune
NIACC plans garden seminar for March 24 A Gardening Seminar will be held from 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Thursday, March 24 at North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC). Workshops will address subjects ranging from beekeeping, landscape design, vegetable gardening, preserving our heritage, and woodland gardening. These Iowa gar-
dening specialists include: Pat and Peggy Ennis, Iowa Honey Producers Association, Goodell; Donna Brown, Brown Landscaping, Belmond; Daniel Zimmerman, Stillwater Greenhouse, Osage; Megan Buckingham, Seed Savers Exchange, Decorah; and Kitty Clasing, Master
Agriculture Today
Gardener, Mason City. Market Street, a popular segment of the seminar that features garden-related business displays, will make a return to the Gardening Seminar for 2011. The $29 fee includes a noon lunch. Reservations are taken at 1-888 GO NIACC, Ext. 4358.
A supplement to
MS-23468
CHOOSE NIACC! MS-25427
MS-24965
M a r c h 1 6 , 2 0 11