Farm Bureau Connects with Consumers Page 5
INSIDE: News in Brief.....................2 Rules & Regs.....................3 Around IFB........................6 Communication.................7 Around Indiana.................8
Are You Feeling Lucky? Page 6
The Hoosier Farmer
®
A Publication for Voting Members of Indiana Farm Bureau
SEPTEMBER 15, 2014 Issue No. 57
Farm data, annexation, property taxes issues addressed by Farm Bureau delegates —By Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team Delegates reaffirmed and strengthened the Farm Bureau’s call for property tax reform and also approved new language concerning the emerging issues of big data and unmanned aerial vehicles as they affect agriculture. The annual delegate session was held Aug. 23 in Indianapolis. More than 260 delegates from across the state considered the policy that will guide IFB for the next year. Other topics addressed by the delegates included local government, annexation, animal care and rights of landowners. For property taxes, the delegates recognized the impending fiscal cliff for farmland owners caused by continued escalation of the base value assessment and the decline in farm income.
They approved language that called for freezing the base value at 2014 levels until a suitable solution to the problem of farmland taxes can be found. “Property taxes and annexation have been issues for a long time but their impact on farmers is growing exponentially,” said IFB President Don Villwock. Between 2007 and 2013, property taxes paid by agriculture have increased 33 percent – an increase totaling more than $100 million, according to Katrina Hall, IFB’s state government relations director and tax expert. “Indiana agriculture simply cannot absorb more property taxes,” Hall said. The base value used for 2014 was $1,760. Estimates show that the base will grow to $2,770 for taxes payable in 2017 unless the General Assembly intervenes. “We’re really looking into
a future, and not too distant a future, in which farmers could potentially be facing a $70 per acre property tax bill. This level of taxes will consume farm profitability when farmers in 2014 and 2015 are looking at prices that will be below breakeven levels,” Villwock said. Delegates added language concerning involuntary annexation. Current law doesn’t allow landowners adequate options in opposing a forced annexation. “Landowners should not have to petition a court to oppose an involuntary annexation,” the new language states. New policy was also approved on both big data and unmanned aerial vehicles as they affect agriculture. UAVs (also sometimes called “unmanned aircraft systems,” UASs or drones) are increasingly used in agriculture for crop scouting and gathering
other agronomic data, but there are still very few regulations governing their commercial use. “It’s a new, uncharted area,” Villwock said. “We need to make sure that when we consider how to regulate this new technology – which we’re very supportive of – we get it right. We’re writing the rules on a blank tablet and we want to get it right from the very beginning.” “Big data” is a term that in agriculture refers to the enormous amount of data generated by every farm – everything from seeding rates to soil type, fertilizer use, yields and much, much more – but also to the ways that farmers can use the data to increase their profits while reducing their use of inputs and resources. The new language approved by the delegates concerns the security and ownership of this valuable
data. “Proprietary data collected from farming and agricultural operations is valuable, should remain the property of the farmer, and warrants protection,” the new language says. As the legal issues surrounding big data become clarified, Villwock said, “We want to make sure farmers are protected, reassure them that the data is their data, that the companies won’t sell that data to third-party vendors and profit from it without sharing revenues with the farmers. We want to make sure that the data is secure and that government agencies don’t have access to that data.” IFB’s full policy should be available online by the time readers receive this edition of The Hoosier Farmer. You can find it on IFB’s website, www.infarmbureau.org.
IFB needs your help Indiana Farm Bureau is preparing for a busy legislative session that will include, among other important issues, a hard look at the steep rise in farmland taxes. We need your help in presenting the case to legislators that the current assessment formula for farmland is unacceptable and that the profitability of Hoosier farmers is at stake. The next issue of The Hoosier Farmer will contain a postcard that asks for specific information about your level of taxation. Our goal is to show lawmakers that the current trend is unsustainable and the tax relief is needed. We encourage you to fill out the postcard and return it to the IFB public policy team (postage paid) so we can begin to make the case, with real numbers and examples, that farmland taxes are just too high. All information submitted will be kept in the strictest confidence. Thank you in advance for your help in this important legislative effort. Indiana Farm Bureau P.O. Box 1290 Indianapolis, IN 46206
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The IFB public policy team held a unique event on Sept. 3 for legislators, Statehouse staff and key agency stakeholders. Before the Harvest attracted more than 200 people, including Farm Bureau leaders, to Jim Cherry’s farm near Greenfield in Hancock County. The event featured food samples from local farms, live music, a meal with local food and an address by Gov. Mike Pence. A gift basket raffle collected more than $600 for local food banks. The goal of Before the Harvest was to invite the legislative community to a fun event before harvest and the coming legislative session get underway. For more on the event, see page 4. Photo by Kathleen M. Dutro
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NEWS IN BRIEF
News Bites —Compiled by Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team
Workshop, tour offered to owners of historic barns—On Sept. 19, Indiana Landmarks offers BARN AGAIN!, a workshop to help owners maximize use of vintage barns. The workshop takes place in Greenfield and includes a tour of historic barns in Hancock County. The BARN AGAIN! workshop offers practical solutions for maintaining, rehabilitating and adapting old barns for today’s needs. Rick Collins of Trillium Dell Timberworks in Knoxville, Illinois, will provide expert advice on how barn owners can rehab a
barn for continued use. The workshop experts will also discuss a new Indiana law that offers a 100 percent property tax deduction for heritage barns – barns built before 1950 that retain structural integrity and are not being used for farming or business purposes. The workshop is based on the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s BARN AGAIN! Program and will be held at NineStar Connect Conference Center, 2243 East Main Street, Greenfield, IN 46140. Cost for the daylong workshop is $45 and includes lectures, lunch, an informational packet, and the barn tour. Members of Indiana Landmarks receive a discount.
Register online at barnagain2014.eventbrite.com or contact Indiana Landmarks at 800-450-4534. For details about the agenda, fees, and barn tour, visit www.indianalandmarks.org. (Indiana Landmarks 8/8/14)
Rural Youth/Young Adults reunion slated for Sept. 27—The bien-
nial state alumni reunion of former Indiana Rural Youth/ Young Adults members will be Sept. 27. All former members are invited. The event will be at the Johnson County Fairgrounds’ Scott Hall and begins at 1 p.m. EDT. It will celebrate 75 years of the RY/YA organization. An RSVP is not required to attend, but you may contact LuMar Griggs, jlwpc5@ netzero.net, or Carol Herzog, carolherzog@cinergymetro.net, with any questions. (IFB)
Women honored with Extension awards for dedication to agriculture—
The Young Farmer Summer Social took place Aug. 16 in the Normandy Barn on the Indiana State Fairgrounds. This event replaced the Young Farmer Summer Outing. One hundred twenty-three young farmers and guests attended. The event featured an ice cream social and focused highly on networking with district directors, district woman leaders and all members of the State Young Farmer Committee. Photo by Meggie Foster
Purdue Extension honored two women for their dedication and service to agriculture with the Women in Agriculture achievement and leadership awards Aug. 13 at the Indiana State Fair. The achievement award, which recognizes women who are directly involved in a home farming operation, was presented to Kerry Dull of Boone County. Dull was chosen for her integral part on the management team of Dull Family Farms, a 2,000acre corn and soybean operation, and Dull’s Tree Farm, a 30-acre chooseand-harvest Christmas tree operation that is also an agritourism venue. The leadership award, given to a woman in an agri-
business or policy-making position, was awarded to Elisha Modisett Kemp of Marion County for leadership in her position as government affairs manager at Dow AgroSciences and for her work formerly at the Indiana Department of Agriculture, where she represented Indiana agriculture before the state legislature. The Women in Agriculture awards program is one of many programs sponsored by the Purdue Extension Women in Agriculture team. For more information, visit https://ag.purdue.edu/extension/WIA/Pages/default. aspx. (Purdue 8/14/14)
Markets grow, adapt to changing consumer needs—
Growth in the number of farmers’ markets continued last year, and the markets are adapting to new locations and innovative formats to meet consumer needs. According to the USDA, there were 8,144 farmers’ markets in 2013, an increase of 3.6 percent from 2012. The rapid growth can be attributed to several factors, including consumer perceptions about superior freshness and quality; the ability to learn about farming practices; and a desire to support local businesses and farmers. (AFBF 5/14/14)
Hoosier farm kid chosen for Disney web series—A White-
land, Ind. girl stars in an episode of “Citizen Kid,” an online video series featuring extraordinary kids produced by Disney Interactive. The 21-episode original web series celebrates the potential in all kids and the extraordinary things they accomplish when they embrace their interests and talents. The latest episode stars 10 year-old dairy farmer
Administrative/Finance Team
Legal Affairs Team
Public Relations Team
Regional Managers
President...................................... Don Villwock Vice President.................................Randy Kron Second Vice President................. Isabella Chism Chief Operating Officer/Treasurer....Mark Sigler Receptionist...................................... Kim Duke General Fund Accountant.............. Tiffanie Ellis Office Manager & Meeting Planner.Kay Keown Controller.......................................Elaine Rueff Administrative Assistant....................Jill Shanley Executive Secretary..................... Beverly Thorpe
Director & General Counsel ...Mark Thornburg Associate Counsel for Corporate Compliance & Nonprofit Affairs ............Sara MacLaughlin Legal Assistant........................... Maria Spellman
Director & Editor .......................Andy Dietrick Web Designer/Developer..............Diane Brewer Publications Managing Editor & Media Relations Specialist...... Kathleen Dutro Marketing & PR Specialist.............. Mindy Reef Communications Assistant......... Rachel Schrage
Wayne Belden (1 & 3) Greg Bohlander (6) Andrew Cleveland (4 & 6) Janice Deno (3) Jennifer Chandler Gish (9) Seth Harden (7 & 9) Allison Hines (10) Amy Hutson (5) Susan Lawrence (2) John Newsom (1 & 2) Kermit Paris (8) Keegan Poe (5 & 8) Brad Ponsler (10) E.B. Rawles (7) Allie Rieth (4)
District Directors Larry Jernas (1) Kevin Ousley (2) Kevin Underwood (3) Steve Maple (4) Dave Wyeth (5)
Scott Trennepohl (6) Jeff Gormong (7) Mark Bacon (8) Philip Springstun (9) Robert Schickel (10)
Indiana Agricultural Law Foundation
Public Policy Team Director........................................ Megan Ritter Policy Development & Industry Relations.........................Bob Cherry National Government Relations Policy Advisor................. Kyle Cline Policy Advisor & Counsel..............Amy Cornell State Government Relations Director...................................... Katrina Hall Administrative Assistant .............Wanda Hunter Administrative Assistant ................Diane Miller Senior Policy Advisor & Counsel..................................Justin Schneider Livestock Development Specialist... Greg Slipher Direct Retail Business Specialist........Bob White
Organizational Development Team Director............................................... Kim Vail Program Assistant........................ Ashley Beasley Field Services Program Director.....Chris Fenner Young Farmer & Women’s Program Coordinator................ Meggie Foster Collegiate Farm Bureau Coordinator................................ Seth Harden Program Assistant.......................Kathryn Rogers Education Coordinator.................... Julie Taylor Member Services Coordinator...........Anna Todd Program Assistant............................ Tracie Trent
Indiana Farm Bureau Inc./ Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance Director of Affiliate Relations.................. Julie Klarich
Jenna Kelsay. Jenna comes from a long line of dairy farmers – more than six generations – and is committed to making a difference in her community by sharing that tradition. Jenna’s parents, Joe and Amy Kelsay, work on Kelsay Farms alongside Joe’s parents, his brother and sisterin-law, and grandmother. The video also highlights the commitment Jenna and other dairy farmers have made to fighting hunger with the Great American Milk Drive, an effort to provide milk to the those families who need it most. Visit www.milklife.com/give for information on how to help. Visit https://disneycitizenkid.rebelmouse.com/ to see Jenna in action on “Citizen Kid.” (ADA Indiana 8/27/14)
Farmers urged to apply for disasterrelated assistance—
USDA is encouraging farmers who have suffered eligible disaster-related losses to act to secure assistance by Sept. 30. After that date, congressionally mandated payment reductions will take place for farmers who have not acted. In a news release, USDA stressed that livestock producers that experienced grazing losses since October 2011 who may be eligible for benefits but have not yet contacted their local Farm Service Agency office should do so as soon as possible. FSA has developed an online registration that enables farmers and ranchers to put their names on an electronic list before the deadline to avoid reductions in their disaster assistance. This is an alternative to visiting or contacting the county office. To place a name on the Livestock Forage Disaster Program list online, visit www.fsa.usda.gov/disasterregister. (USDA 9/4/14)
Address Letters & Questions To: Indiana Farm Bureau Inc. Box 1290, Indianapolis, IN 46206-1290. Phone: 1-800-327-6287 or (317) 692-7776 E-Mail Address: askus@infarmbureau.org Duplicate Magazines If you are receiving more than one copy of The Hoosier Farmer®, please cut out both labels and return them to the address above. Magazine Design and Layout Davis Graphic Design www.davisgraphics.com The Hoosier Farmer® is published 14 times per year by Indiana Farm Bureau Inc., P.O. Box 1290, Indianapolis, IN 46206, and is furnished as a service to voting members and others. Controlled circulation. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Hoosier Farmer® P.O. Box 1290 Indianapolis, IN 46206-1290. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved.
Director..................... John Shoup
September 15, 2014
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3
RULES & REGS
Big data, UAVs topic of IALF workshop —By Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team “Big data” has become a hot topic in agriculture, which is why the Indiana Ag Law Foundation and Indiana Farm Bureau sponsored a workshop on big data for farmers on Aug. 15. The workshop also presented information on the benefits and perils surrounding farmers’ use of unmanned aerial vehicles. More than 175 people attended the seminar and heard presentations from speakers who included American Farm Bureau Federation economist Matt Erickson; Aaron Ault of Purdue who talked about the Open Ag Data Alliance (http:// openag.io/); attorneys from Indiana law firms to discussed the legal aspects of
both UAVs and big data; and Dean Payne of Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance to talk about insuring UAVs. Also represented were agri-businesses involved in these issues, including RoboFlight, Climate Corp., Beck’s Hybrids and DuPont Pioneer. Big data really isn’t anything new because farmers have been collecting valuable information on their operations for a long time, noted Justin Welch of DuPont Pioneer’s Encirca Services. “We’ve got to figure out how to organize this better and protect privacy,” he said. He added that the ultimate question is, “What are we trying to do to help you guys in your quest for better yields?”
Food safety course offered by District 7 —By Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team District 7 Farm Bureau is sponsoring in November a two-day course on safe food handling. The deadline for registration is Oct. 1. The course will be held Nov. 10 and 17 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Martin County Fairgrounds (2666 US Hwy. 50, Loogootee, 47553), with the exam being administered Nov. 17. Called the ServSafe manager certification, the course teaches volunteers how to handle food safely and in accordance with regulations. The cost, which includes the textbook, is the
discounted rate of $135 per person. Class space is limited to 35 participants, so those interested are encouraged to register early. To register, fill it out the registration form (which can be found at www.infb.org/ hoosierfarmer/uploadFiles/ SERVSAFECLASSFLYERLoogootee.pdf) and send it and the check for the registration fee to regional manager Seth Harden, 813 S. Jackson, Salem, IN 47167. Make checks payable to Indiana Farm Bureau District 7. For more information, call your county Farm Bureau or email Seth Harden, sharden@infb.org.
Dr. Kevin Price of RoboFlight (a company that provides a means of efficiently collecting aerial imagery and processing that data for use in farm management systems) answers a question from the audience about aerial drones and their use in agriculture. Price was one of the speakers at a workshop on drones and big data sponsored by the Indiana Ag Law Foundation and Indiana Farm Bureau. Photo by Andy Dietrick
Eight Hoosier lawmakers named ‘Friend of Farm Bureau’ —By Andy Dietrick Public Relations Team Indiana Farm Bureau has announced that eight members of Indiana’s congressional delegation have been named “Friend of Farm Bureau,” an award given by the American Farm Bureau Federation. Indiana’s winners are Sen. Dan Coats, Sen. Joe Donnelly, Rep. Jackie Wal-
orski, Rep. Todd Rokita, Rep. Susan Brooks, Rep. Luke Messer, Rep. Larry Bucshon and Rep. Todd Young. “We are extremely pleased that AFBF agreed with our nominations for the “Friend of Farm Bureau” award for members of the 113th Congress,” said Don Villwock, president of Indiana Farm Bureau. “Each of these lawmakers has listened to and worked closely with
Farm Bureau members on policy issues that impact farms in Indiana and across the nation.” Being named a “Friend of Farm Bureau” is based on a member’s voting record on AFBF’s priority issues, the number of bills that a member has sponsored and co-sponsored and taking a leadership role for Farm Bureau on priority issues.
Involuntary annexation topic of study committee’s discussion —From the IFB Public Policy Team The discussion about involuntary annexation has moved from communities across the state into the Statehouse. Rep. Sharon Negele, RAttica, who chairs the newly configured Interim Study Committee on Government, convened the committee on Aug. 25. Citizens from Huntington and Fortville provided compelling testimony about their experiences with
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trying to combat involuntary annexation. Katrina Hall, director of state government relations, provided observations from more than 20 areas across the state that have contacted Indiana Farm Bureau for assistance in fighting off forced annexations. Hall also outlined reforms that IFB members will be requesting to the annexation law. The committee will meet again on Sept. 24 to hear testimony and on Oct. 22 to propose a final report.
IFB President Don Villwock presents a donation to the 2014 Indiana FFA officer team for the Indiana FFA Foundation. The money was raised during the Old-Fashioned Pancake Breakfast sponsored by Indiana Farm Bureau on Aug. 13 at the Indiana State Fair. Photo by Taylor Scuglik
September 15, 2014
4
STATE & NATION
Kron joins trade mission to Asia —By Rachel Schrage Public Relations Team IFB Vice President Randy Kron recently travelled to Japan, Taiwan and South Korea as part of Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann’s trade mission to Asia. The trip, which was made in June, brought together agricultural business leaders and commodity experts from across the state with the goal of building relationships in Asian markets, which could lead to increased exports to Asia and increased Asian investment in Indiana. “The leaders we met with in Japan, Taiwan and South Korea said repeatedly that they want to import products from honest, trustworthy and reliable sources,” said Kron. “This trip was a great opportunity to build relationships and show that Indiana agriculture exemplifies the qualities these countries value in a trading partner.” With market prices in the U.S. continuing to fall, exports are likely to become an even bigger part of Indiana’s agricultural economy. Cur-
In June, Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann (shown in the center of the front row) traveled to Asia on a trip that brought together ag leaders and commodity experts from across the state. Among these was IFB Vice President Randy Kron, shown in the center of the back row. Photo courtesy of Randy Kron
rently, Indiana’s agricultural exports support more than 30,000 Hoosier jobs. “Indiana is fortunate to have a
lieutenant governor who understands the importance of agriculture,” said Kron. On the 14-day journey, Kron and
the other delegates traveled nearly 16,000 miles and logged more than 38 hours of flight time in the name of Indiana agriculture.
Farmers, legislators meet and mingle at ‘Before the Harvest’ event
Gov. Mike Pence and his wife, Karen, pose with IFB President Don Villwock and his wife, Joyce, at the Hancock County farm owned by Jim Cherry and family. The occasion was a new event for Farm Bureau called Before the Harvest. Photo by Kathleen M. Dutro
Farmers and state legislators from around the state attended and enjoyed food, music and a short speech by Gov. Pence. Photo by Megan Ritter
Producers from the area brought food samples from local farms. Among these were the Russell family of Delaware County. Photo by Rachel Schrage
Pence chats with two of the farmers in attendance – Roger Bommer, Franklin County Farm Bureau president, and John Cheesewright, Vermillion County Farm Bureau president. More than 200 people attended, including Farm Bureau leaders, legislators, and agency stakeholders. Photo by Kathleen M. Dutro
September 15, 2014
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5
STATE FAIR
State fair helps Farm Bureau connect with consumers
The newly renovated Coliseum was the site for an event that is pretty new as well: the Celebration of Champions. The even recognizes 4H’ers at the State Fair through an elaborate gala and monetary awards that celebrate achievement, scholarship and hard work. Farm Bureau was among the sponsors. Photo by Kathleen M. Dutro
—Rachel Schrage Public Relations Team Eight months of planning, countless meetings, a complete exhibit overhaul and hundreds of hours of hard work by IFB staff culminated in the 17-day Indiana State Fair in August. This year’s fair had the third highest attendance of all time, with more than 950,000 people taking part in the festivities. In the Farm Bureau building, the Taste from Indiana Farms and free popcorn remained popular with fairgoers. New this year, IFB sponsored the official state highway map, 22,000 of which were handed out in the IFB building
during the fair. In all, the IFB building staff handed out more than 16,000 prizes to people who took some time to learn about agriculture through the Wonder Trail, the Ag Fact Adventure or iPad quizzes in the building. Indiana Farm Bureau’s presence at the 2014 Indiana State Fair was a huge success,” said Julie Taylor, IFB education coordinator. “The planning committee is delighted with the positive feedback received from fairgoers as they browsed our exhibit and learned a little bit more about the role that Hoosier farmers play in providing them with food, fiber and fuel.”
The Indiana’s Family of Farmers recipe trail got some early fair exposure when WISH-TV’s Indy Style program featured some of the stops during its fair coverage. Photo by Andy Dietrick
The Farm Bureau Building at the state fair featured a new look and new activities, including a scavenger hunt for which participants sought clues within the building. Photo by Mindy Reef
Dozens of farm and agribusiness organizations helped with the Habitat for Humanity Ag Build, which this year celebrated its 5th anniversary of working with the Indiana State Fair. Photo by Andy Dietrick
More than 5,500 people turned up for the three-day Taste from Indiana Farms. Photo by Kathleen M. Dutro
2014 Indiana State Fair by the numbers
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September 15, 2014
6
AROUND IFB
County Recognition Program’s year ends Sept. 30 —By Chris Fenner Organizational Development Team
Are you feeling lucky? We aren’t talking about your chances in the casino.
West Baden Springs Hotel has two special historical suites featuring an iron-framed bed, blonde wood floors, a claw-foot bathtub and marble bathroom sinks. Sound good? One of them could be yours for up to two nights* during the convention.
Everyone who is registered for state convention and has a hotel reservation by Sept. 30 will be entered into a drawing to get upgraded to one of these historical suites. That’s all it takes – just register and reserve your room by Sept. 30 for your chance to get upgraded to a historical suite. Visit conv.infb.org or call Tracie Trent, 800-7233276, ext. 7846, to register for state convention. *The eligible nights are Thursday, Dec. 11, and Friday, Dec. 12. No substitutions. A historical suite at West Baden is the only room eligible to upgrade to. The winner will be contacted by Oct. 3.
Indiana Farm Bureau young farmers from Districts 7, 9, and 10 got together for their summer picnic in late June. Held at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, the event also included presentations from Farm Credit regarding loans that are targeted at young farmers and from park personnel about Holiday World’s agri-tourism initiatives. Photo courtesy of Derika Spaetti
September 15, 2014
As you wrap up your county activities, we are excited here at IFB to recognize counties for their efforts over the past year. County Farm Bureaus still have time before the membership year ends to meet the requirements for the goals established last fall for the County Recognition Program. Here are some ways you can check some of those boxes: Membership Have volunteers write three new memberships (Cardinal level) or six new memberships (Hawk level). Conduct a membership campaign prior to Sept. 30. Initiate a contact program to achieve renewal member retention before Sept. 30. Achieve a 2014 voting retention percentage that is 95 percent or higher of the 2013 voting retention percentage. Reach a 2014 voting membership that exceeds the 2013 voting membership. Recruit at least one young farmer member as a new member or by involving them
in a county Farm Bureau activity. Host an office luncheon to familiarize marketing associates (formerly called CSRs) or agents with important aspects of the county Farm Bureau. Issue Engagement Make sure three or more members representing the county Farm Bureau meet with legislators to take action on policy and build working relationships. Have one or more member attend or host meetings on local issues to take action on IFB or county policy or to build better relationships. Eligible meetings include county commissioners and council, board of zoning appeals, assessor, auditor, school board or county health board. Have your national policy action chair or coordinator along with two other members visit the district congressional office or mobile office to build positive working relationships and discuss national Farm Bureau policy issues. Influential Organization Have two or more members make contact with their member of Congress or con-
gressional staff member on a federal priority issue and report the results to IFB’s public policy team. Facilitate having at least five members make contact with state legislators on a state priority policy issue and reported it to the public policy team. Make a county Farm Bureau contribution to the Indiana Agricultural Law Foundation. Public Relations and Education Create or update a county Farm Bureau website, Facebook page or blog. Meet with a local (non-ag) media source and provide a new or updated media contact sheet. Develop or continue a relationship with a non-ag group such as an animal shelter, civic organization, food pantry, etc. and promote the relationship to the community. Thanks for all your efforts! Double check your activity with your regional manager so we can recognize your county for all their efforts in December at State Convention!
Indiana Farm Bureau websites getting new look, feel and functionality —From the IFB Public Relations Team IFB is one step closer to launching its new web presence. Final testing is currently underway, and if there are no unforeseen complications www.infb.org and its associated sites should go live on or before Oct.1. The new sites use a technology known as “responsive web design,” which means the new content management system (or “CMS”) will automatically recognize the type of device displaying the information and adjust accordingly. This means no more scrolling, stretching or squinting; the content will “fit” whether you are on a desktop, tablet or smartphone. “Our old CMS was on its last legs and didn’t offer an easy solution for the growing number of members who access information on their smart devices,” said Andy Dietrick, IFB’s public relations director. “So we deployed a system that not only offers responsive web design, but also creates a more stable and easy-to-use web environment for all IFB staff that needs to
push information to the web.” Smoother integration with social media channels is another benefit of the new CMS. With one click content uploaded to any of IFB’s websites can be promoted on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. “We know that the days of ‘post it and they will come’ are over,” said Dietrick. “While the web is still a convenient information repository, the amplification of social media will enable us drive people to the content we want them to see.” Another improvement that happens behind the scenes
is the new single sign-on feature. Members who wish to visit secure content, such as specific information about member benefits, will be asked to register by filling out data fields that create a user profile. This data automatically recognizes members as unique visitors and will provide access to the appropriate secure content. The IFB single sign-on also “talks” to the Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance Online Account Manager, providing seamless access to both membership and insurance account information.
Ted McKinney, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, talks ag issues with Farm Bureau members at the annual meeting of the Clay County Farm Bureau. One of McKinney’s main messages was that famers need to “be in the room” when decisions are made. Photo by Kathleen M. Dutro
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7
COMMUNICATION
IFB woman leader elected for communication ‘boot camp’
Tools offered to prepare for ‘Farmed Animals’ day —By Rachel Schrage Public Relations Team
District 1 Woman Leader Deb Walsh of Fulton County hosts Sen. Joe Donnelly at a meeting for local farmers held at the Walsh farm in August 2013. Walsh has been chosen to receive intensive communications training from the American Farm Bureau Federation. Photo by Kathleen M. Dutro
—By Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team Deb Walsh, Indiana Farm Bureau District 1 woman leader, has been accepted to the 2014 AFBF Women’s Communication Boot Camp and will participate in the intensive training workshop Oct. 7-10. Walsh is one of only 15 applicants from across the country selected for the pro-
gram, which is now entering its eighth year. It will be held at the American Farm Bureau’s Washington, D.C., office. Among the many topics to be covered will be presentation skills, seeking elected office, testifying before lawmakers, media training (including print, TV and radio interviews), social media advocacy and mastering public speaking. The “final exam” will be a
polished speech, testimony or a media interview on a previously selected topic. Each participant will give her presentation before a panel composed of some of the workshop presenters, who will evaluate the presentations and provide general comments. Participants will also have an opportunity to visit their congressional offices to meet with staff.
‘If you are not at the table, you are likely on the menu’ The following is a Q&A with Indiana Farm Bureau livestock development specialist Greg Slipher on recent efforts in some counties to limit opportunities for livestock farmers. Q: What is going on right now that makes local engagement important? A: We have livestock issues emerging in several counties that are causing local decision makers to discuss animal agriculture and look for ways to limit opportunities Q: Does it only affect animal agriculture? A: Unfortunately no. It is simply the tip of the iceberg. Livestock is why I am talking about this right now, but it is much broader than livestock. Livestock may be the issue today, but on the immediate horizon are other issues – land use, taxes, water and annexation, for example. Q: What is the role for Farm Bureau boards? A: Each county should have identified and populated a local affairs committee. The primary role of local
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affairs committees is to build relationships with local decision makers, so they can have meaningful engagement when the need arises. For those that haven’t established a local affairs committee, their regional manager in cooperation with the IFB public policy team would be happy to sit down with the county president and get the committee geared up. Q: What is the role of Farm Bureau members? A: They need to remember that they are members of the largest general farm organization in Indiana. I would suggest that they have an obligation as members to speak up for agriculture. Those who don’t feel that obligation should perhaps examine why they have chosen to be members of a farm advocacy organization. Q: How can individual members make a difference? A: Yes. Here are two ways Make a personal commitment to watch what is going on in their counties. Have someone whose job it is to monitor agendas of local
decision maker meetings. Most agendas are available online or by request through group email lists or request by email or phone. Find a way to work with their county Farm Bureaus make sure local decisionmakers know Farm Bureau is paying attention to what they are saying and doing. Just looking at the numbers, it’s clear that ag is in the minority. So we must be vigilant and ready to engage when agriculture is on the agenda. Q: What is the most surprising thing you see in local meetings? A: Farmer against farmer. We must set our biases aside; we must be united for agriculture. Do the math. Q: What local units of government should members be watching? A: Your APC (area planning commission), BZA (board of zoning appeals), county council, county commissioners, auditor, assessor, school board, and in some cases even your board of health.
October 2 is World Day for Farmed Animals. As someone who comes from a non-agriculture background, this title led me to assume that this is a day for celebrating livestock, poultry and fish. The real purpose of this day, according to the organizing group’s website, is dedicated to “exposing the needless suffering and death of sentient animals raised and slaughtered for food. World Day for Farmed Animals will continue until animals are no longer seen as commodities, raised for their flesh and byproducts.” Farm Animal Rights Movement, the group behind the day, encourages participants to go vegan, demonstrate, fast and pass out leaflets to bring attention to its cause. So far, there are a handful of demonstrations planned around the country. While none of the organized demonstrations listed are in Indiana, it is still important for those of us working in agriculture to have responses when accusations and questions arise. Whitney Young Jr. once said, “It is better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one than to have an opportunity and not be prepared.” The website offers many common buzzwords as reasons to protest animal agricul-
ture. Factory farms, confinement, suffering and starvation are all mentioned. These words are opportunities, if you’re prepared. Do you have a well-thought-out and personal response for these situations? It is important that the answer to that question is, or becomes, “yes.” If you’re not sure where to begin, visit the Center for Food Integrity’s resource center, www.cfiengage.com, and view its tools for engagement. CFI, a non-profit organization of which Farm Bureau is a member, was established in 2007 to build consumer trust and confidence in today’s food system. Among the resources offered by the center are tips for social media, faceto-face interactions and letters to the editor.
IFB to host energy alliance meeting —By Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team The 25x’25 Alliance, a coalition whose goal is securing 25 percent of the nation’s energy needs from renewable sources by the year 2025, will be bringing its steering committee to Indiana on Oct. 8 and 9 to highlight a new initiative called Energy for Economic Growth. The purpose of the trip is to assess progress to date and spotlight the program and provide an educational opportunity for policy/government leaders, agriculture leaders, educators, and business to learn about the effort. The EEG Initiative is exploring how incentive policies might be used to accelerate economic development and distributed re-
newable energy generation through rural electric utilities and other power providers that serve rural communities. Its ultimate goal, according to 25x’25, is to partner with rural electric utilities in developing and testing renewable energy incentive policies and programs and sharing these results with the REU community and their partners across the country. Indiana Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau have been partners and supporters to 25x25 for several years – and the organization is specifically mentioned in the AFBF policy book, noted Kyle Cline, IFB’s national affairs policy advisor. The steering committee will meet in IFB’s home office Oct. 8. On Oct. 9, IFB is sponsoring a renewable energy tour across the state
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8
AROUND INDIANA
Woman leaders invited to regional roundtable meetings
State convention registration, program details now available —By Mindy Reef Public Relations Team Registration is open for the IFB state convention, Dec. 12-13 in French Lick. “We’re looking forward to members experiencing a taste of southern hospitality in one of Indiana’s most historic destinations,” said Chris Fenner, IFB’s director of field services. “Both the French Lick Hotel and the West Baden Hotel have been completely restored and are astonishingly beautiful.” While the location is sure to be a draw, the convention agenda offers both valuable and fun opportunities as well. Two rounds of breakout sessions on Friday will cover taxes and annexation, water issues, the farm bill, farm technology and work/ life balance. The popular roundtable discussions, dubbed Idea Depot in honor of the convention’s location, will take place Friday during the 2:30 p.m. round of breakouts. The Artisan Fair and Exhibitor Showcase will run from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. This new format features Indianamade products and specialty food items for sampling or
purchase as well as many returning tradeshow participants. The Young Farmer silent auction and cooking sessions by Heather “Basil Momma” Tallman will take place during the showcase. The general session on Friday evening will be emceed by French Lick native Tom Wright. Wright is a member of the Wright Brothers Band. The president’s address, Hovde Award, Rural Teacher of the Year and Farm Family of the Year awards will be given that night. After Friday’s general session, members have the evening free to enjoy the French Lick area. A limited number of tickets for the Polar Express train are available. Tickets may be reserved during convention registration. The spas at French Lick and West Baden will have special hours and spa packages for convention attendees, provided enough advance registrations are received. The documentary film “Farmland” will be shown in the Old Schoolhouse at West Baden. Tours of both facilities, bowling, an arcade and a casino are also available. Saturday’s agenda includes the delegate session,
the final round of the Discussion Meet and closing session. A session on food labels runs on Saturday opposite the delegate session. The closing session features speaker Nido Qubein, president of High Point University and chairman of Great Harvest Break Company; Impact Awards; the County Recognition Program and membership awards. Rooms are available at both the French Lick Springs and West Baden Springs hotels. At French Lick, the rate is $129 per night plus tax from Dec. 11-13; at West Baden, the rate is $129 plus tax for Dec. 11 and 12 and $169 plus tax for Dec. 13. The deadline to reserve hotel rooms is Nov. 7 or when the room block fills, whichever comes sooner. A full agenda is available at conv.infb.org. All information is subject to change. Keep reading The Hoosier Farmer for additional details and for opportunities to upgrade your convention experience. There’s a special opportunity outlined on page 6 of this edition for one lucky person who registers before Sept. 30.
Calendar of Events September__________________________________________________________________
Indiana Farm Bureau will host four regional roundtables for county woman leaders on Sept. 22 and 23. County woman leaders should have received invitations through U.S mail and also through updates in the monthly county woman leader newsletter. The main purpose of the roundtables is to allow county woman leaders share thoughts and ideas with other county women leaders in their area. Also in attendance will be Second Vice President Isabella Chism, Young Farmer and women’s program coordinator Meggie Foster and program assistant Ashley Beasley. The schedule is: • Southeast (for county woman leaders in Districts 8 and 10): Sept. 22, 9 a.m. Eastern time, Decatur County Farm Bureau Office, 750 W. Washington St., Greensburg, IN 47240-1582. • Southwest (Districts 7 and 9): Sept. 22, 2 p.m. Eastern time, Daviess County Farm Bureau office, 443 S. State Road 57, Washington, IN 47501-4063. • Northeast (Districts 1, 3 and 5): Sept. 23, 9 a.m. Eastern time, Tippecanoe County South Office, 1803 Veterans Memorial Parkway S, Suite D, Lafayette IN 47909-8186. • Northwest (Districts 2, 4 and 6): Sept. 23, 2 p.m. Eastern time, Elizabeth’s Tea Room, located in the Historic Purviance House, 326 South Jefferson St., Huntington, IN 46750-3327. For more information, call or write Foster, 317-692-7183, mfoster@infb.org, or Ashley Beasley, 317-692- 7830, abeasley@infb.org.
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September 15, 2014
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