The Hoosier Farmer - issue 69 by Indiana Farm Bureau

Keynote Speaker Announced Page 7

Farm Bureau Dates to Remember Pages 4, 5

INSIDE: News in Brief................ 2 State & Nation.............. 3 Communication............ 6 Around INFB............ 7, 8

The Hoosier Farmer

A Publication for Voting Members of Indiana Farm Bureau

JULY 20, 2015 Issue No. 69

INFB president stepping down —By Andy Dietrick Public Relations Team Indiana Farm Bureau president Don Villwock announced at the June board meeting that he will not seek re-election and will retire following the completion of his term Dec. 31, 2015. Villwock made the announcement in June to give candidates who may want to seek the presidency time to campaign over the summer. Villwock has served as Indiana Farm Bureau president and chairman of the board

for 14 years. INFB delegates will elect a new president during the November delegate session at the organization’s annual meeting in Indianapolis. The election of officers is outlined by the INFB bylaws, including qualifications, term of office, term limits and the filling of vacancies. To be eligible, a candidate must be a U.S. citizen, Indiana resident, a voting member, and engaged in agriculture as an owner and/ or operator of a farm or a spouse of such a member.

Biotechnology, other Farm Bureau priorities focus of August Recess —From the INFB Public Policy Team Each August, members of Congress take a 5-week pause from their activities in Washington to return to their states and districts to visit with constituents and family. The congressional August recess represents a valuable opportunity for farmers to update and reiterate key Farm Bureau priority issues to their representatives and to build relationships that can make a difference for agriculture. Farm Bureau members are encouraged to interact with their U.S. representatives and convey the issues and concerns most important to their farms and communities. There are Indiana Farm Bureau P.O. Box 1290 Indianapolis, IN 46206

many ways to make a difference, but some of the most effective activities include: • Attend a Farm Bureausponsored event or farm tour. • Attend town hall meetings. • Participate in a “Meet Your Congressman/Congresswoman” event. • Call or write your member’s congressional office. The primary focus for Hoosier farmers during August recess should be expressing support for biotechnology and a national, voluntary GMO label; opposing Waters of the U.S.; and continuing to urge for congressional action that promotes agricultural trade. “There has been a lot of Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage

PAID

Berne, IN Permit NO. 43

It’s no secret to farmers, but thanks to record-breaking precipitation, crop conditions in Indiana range from “a little soggy but basically really good” to “a lot soggy and not good at all” to “Crop? What crop?” According to the State Climate Office, Indiana averaged 9.03 inches of rain in June – the fourth wettest month on record since 1895. Normal rainfall for the month ranges from 4.1 to 4.3 inches, the climate office said. As of early July, the value of the state’s crops had declined by nearly $500 million, according to Purdue Extension ag economist Chris Hurt. Here, Kendell Culp (left) of Jasper County takes Gov. Mike Pence, media and others on a tour of the damage done to one of his soybean fields by major flooding. Also shown is a Carroll County field demonstrating the yellow color and uneven, stunted growth that can be seen all too often this year. Photos by Kathleen M. Dutro

momentum in Congress on the GMO issue in recent months and we need to make sure we don’t miss this opportunity. Trade activities are also in motion, with the recent passage of TPA and the near completion of the 12 county Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement,” said Kyle Cline, INFB national government relations policy advisor. Cline further noted the urgency of WOTUS and the importance of members continuing to urge congress to step in and take action to prevent an unprecedented federal government “landgrab.” Brief summaries of the three issues that are the top priorities during this recess can be found below. Information will also be available on the IFB public policy team’s issue website, ifbstayinformed.org, or from Cline at kcline@infb.org, 317-6927845. GMO labeling: The Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015 (H.R. 1599),

which would create a national labeling program for foods made with genetically modified organisms, has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives and currently has more than 65 co-sponsors. Indiana Farm Bureau is seeking a federal solution to the labeling of foods derived from modern biotechnology. H.R. 1599 would provide a national framework for the voluntary labeling of GMO foods. Members may also find information and express support at AFBF’s issue website (http://GetaMoveOn. fb.org/). Waters of the United States (WOTUS): In June, the EPA finalized one of the most significant environmental regulations in our nation’s history. The final WOTUS rule expands the agencies’ regulatory footprint far beyond what it has historically been, expanding federal jurisdiction over both wet and dry land features. Indiana Farm

Bureau supports the Federal Water Quality Protection Act (S.1140), which requires the EPA to withdraw the current WOTUS rule and re-propose one based on limiting principles established by Congress and account for state and local stakeholder input. Ag Trade/Trans Pacific Partnership: In June Congress passed Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) legislation, which specifies congressional consultation and voting procedures and outlines negotiating objectives for the administration with regard to trade negotiations. While this is a major step toward the completion of beneficial trade agreements such as the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), much more advocacy work is required to ensure their successful completion. Hoosier farmers are encouraged to continue to highlight the importance of trade to their farms and communities to their federal representatives.

NEWS IN BRIEF

News in Brief

Three FFA chapters recognized for ag literacy programs

—Compiled by Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team

—By Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team

‘Shark Tank’ investor Barbara Corcoran to address AFBF convention—Acclaimed

real estate mogul and “Shark Tank” investor Barbara Corcoran will give the closing session keynote address at the 97th American Farm Bureau Federation annual convention and IDEAg Trade Show in Orlando, Florida, on Jan. 11. Nearly 7,000 Farm Bureau members from across the nation are expected to gather in Orlando Jan. 10-13 to hear from distinguished leaders and participate in a grassroots policy-setting process that will guide AFBF through 2016. Corcoran, one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the country, turned a $1,000 loan into a $5 billion real estate business. She is currently an investor on ABC’s No. 1 show on Friday night, Shark Tank, and has helped more than 30 entrepreneurs succeed in their respective industries.

Real estate mogul and “Shark Tank” investor Barbara Corcoran

“Providing our members the opportunity to learn from one of the most successful businesswomen in the nation is a great fit with our Farm Bureau Rural Entrepreneurship Challenge,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman The challenge provides an opportunity for individuals to showcase ideas and business innovations being cultivated in rural regions of the United States. Nearly $145,000 is up for grabs to help competitors finance their business ventures. Finalist teams for the 2016 competition will be announced Oct. 15. Farm Bureau members can register for the conven-

State Senator Erin Houchin invited Farm Bureau members in her district to bring their concerns and discuss the legislative session at a meet and greet in Paoli on July 1. Nearly 40 members attended the event. Houchin’s district covers Crawford, Harrison, Orange, Perry and Washington counties and part of Dubois County. From left: Robert L. Schickel, District 10 director; Philip Springstun, District 10 director; Houchin; Randy Kron, INFB vice president; and Jeff Gormong, District 7 director. Photo by Laura Ruhlman Administrative/Finance Team

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 Accounting Intern..................... Melissa Cuttriss

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

Director...............................................John Shoup

July 20, 2015

Legal Affairs Team

Director & General Counsel ...Mark Thornburg Associate Counsel for Corporate Compliance & Nonprofit Affairs ........... Sara MacLaughlin Legal Assistant........................... Maria Spellman Law Clerk..........................................Lauren Tobe

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 Grassroots Government Program Coordinator.......................................... Jeff Golc Administrative Assistant ............. Diane Helton Administrative Assistant ........... Wanda Hunter Senior Policy Advisor & Counsel................................... Justin Schneider Livestock Development Specialist.Greg Slipher

tion and trade show through their state Farm Bureaus or online through AFBF at annualconvention.fb.org starting in September. (AFBF 6/30/15)

INFB earns recognition in annual communicator competition—Indiana Farm

Woodlan Jr./Sr. High School and Heritage Jr./ Sr. High School have been named the winners of the third annual FFA Ag Literacy Challenge. The challenge is an Indiana Farm Bureau program that recognizes the efforts taken by FFA chapters annually to educate children and adults about the importance of farming and agriculture. Woodlan and Heritage won $500 for the Kindergarten Tours program they worked on together that last year reached 1,560 students (pre-K through 1st graders) and parents. In its thank-you letter to INFB, Woodlan said it would reinvest their $500 winnings in the K-Tours program to help expand and improve it even more.

Bureau’s public relations team received two honorable mentions during the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2015 Strategic Policy, Advocacy, Resources and Communications Conference, held June 16-18 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The awards honor communicators who work for Farm Bureaus across the country. Diane Brewer, INFB’s web designer/developer and graphic designer; Mindy Reef, marketing and PR specialist; Rachel Schrage, communications assistant; and Andy Dietrick, public relations director, won an honorable mention for “best pamphlet or brochure” for the Ag Mag, a 12-page agriculture-themed magazine targeted at students grades 3-6. The magazine is distributed through the Ag in the Classroom program. Kathleen Dutro, INFB’s publications managing editor and media relations specialist, won an honorable mention for “best feature story” for her article on Husk Inc., a company founded by three Indiana

Farm Bureau president and member of the American Farm Bureau Federation board Member, testified before the Senate Agriculture Committee July 25 on the risks American farmers and ranchers face in light of the World Trade Organization’s ruling against mandatory country-of-origin labeling for beef and pork sold in the U.S. “Farm Bureau clearly hoped the WTO would rule in favor of the United States on the regulatory changes

Direct Retail Business Specialist....... Bob White

Regional Managers

Public Relations Team

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

Organizational Development Team

Acting Director.....................Mel Hollingsworth Program Assistant....................... Ashley Beasley Field Services Program Director..Chris Fenner Young Farmer & Women’s Program Coordinator............... Meggie Foster Membership Sales & Marketing Coordinator................Chelsea Poe Program Assistant..................... Kathryn Rogers Education Coordinator..................... Julie Taylor Member Services Coordinator........ Anna Todd Program Assistant............................Tracie Trent Intern ...............................................Casie Conley

famers that buys vegetables from other Hoosier famers, freezes them and distributes them regionally. The article ran in the July 17, 2015, issue of The Hoosier Farmer. (AFBF 6/19/15)

Farm Bureau asks Congress to repeal COOL—Craig Hill, Iowa

Wayne Belden (1 & 3) Greg Bohlander (6) Andrew Cleveland (4 & 6) Janice Deno (3) Jennifer Chandler Gish (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) Laura Ruhlman (7 & 9)

Indiana Farm Bureau Inc./ Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance

Director of Affiliate Relations.................. Julie Klarich

For coming in second, Southwestern Middle and High School received $250, and West Washington Jr./Sr. High School received $100 for third place. The programs or event recognized by the Ag Literacy challenge may be a new project the chapter conducted during the award timeframe or it may be a program that has been a part of the chapter’s annual events for several years. The overarching goal is to educate non-FFA members in grades preK-12 or the local community at large about farming and agriculture through an educational program unique to the FFA chapter. Scores were based on the number of individuals reached, creativity and influence/impact. The awards were presented at the Indiana FFA State Convention in June. made to COOL in recent years,” Hill, a grain and livestock farmer from Milo, Iowa, said. “But the writing on the proverbial wall is clear: that was not the outcome. “We urge the Senate to act quickly to repeal the COOL requirements for beef, pork and chicken and prevent Canada and Mexico from taking retaliatory actions that will impact farmers and ranchers all across the nation,” he said. “American Farm Bureau supports country-of-origin labeling that meets WTO requirements, and we appreciate that remaining COOL programs are being kept in place. The risk of retaliation by Canada and Mexico is too great. U.S. farmers and ranchers could suffer a serious blow if decisive action is not taken.” (AFBF 6/25/15)

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 2015. All rights reserved.

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STATE & NATION

Smithsonian showcases agricultural innovation in new exhibit —By Kari Barbic Media specialist American Farm Bureau Photos courtesy of the National Museum of American History, American Enterprise exhibition

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History is introducing visitors to the ingenuity of America’s farmers and ranchers through new interactive exhibits and programming that showcase innovation in agriculture. On July 1, the museum welcomed the public to the American Enterprise exhibit at the ground level of its new Innovation Wing in the Mars Hall of American Business. The exhibit will be in place for the next 20 years. Visitors get to see firsthand how innovation has driven American business as they walk through the four eras of enterprise: the Merchant Era (1770s–1850s), the Corporate Era (1860s– 1930s), the Consumer Era (1940s– 1970s) and the Global Era (1980s–2010s). The exhibit shows the breadth of the American business story, and agriculture takes a leading role as one of the “five pillars” of enterprise, alongside consumer finance, information technology/communication, manufacturing and retail service.

At the center of the new exhibit, a 1918 Fordson tractor shows the shift to modern farming practices and production that cleared the path for American agriculture to become a leader in the global marketplace. From Eli Whitney’s cotton gin to a prototype of an experimental gene gun, the agricultural items on display demonstrate how farmers have long been in the business of making their practices more environmentally friendly and efficient. But Smithsonian’s new exhibit does more than show museum-goers evidence of the strides farmers and ranchers have made: It gives them a chance to take on real business decisions in the new Wallace H. Coulter Exchange. At the Farming Chal-

lenge, visitors of all ages can take the wheel in an interactive tractor cab where they quickly learn that, much like corporate CEOs, farmers face tough decisions each day that can make or break their businesses. The Smithsonian is also putting faces to the American Enterprise story through a special biography wall that includes interactive kiosks to highlight stories of business leaders and visionaries – from agricultural innovators such as Norman Borlaug and Barbara McClintock to well-known food industry names like Henry Heinz. Finally, the museum’s new first floor will also play center stage for the Smithsonian’s Food History Project. Cooking demonstrations, talks and tastings will take

Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, which now houses a new exhibit called American Enterprise, which features agriculture as one of the “five pillars” of enterprise.

place at the Wallace H. Coulter Performance Plaza to highlight innovation on the plate. American farmers and ranchers will have a special opportunity to join in the conversation each month at the museum’s “Ask a Farmer” program. Every third Wednesday of the month, beginning in July, farmers will share their stories, the challenges they face and the role innovation plays on their farms. The new American En-

terprise exhibit has not only chronicled the story of innovation in agriculture, it’s bridging the gap for consumers far removed from the farm. Smithsonian is opening the door for farmers and ranchers to keep telling their stories for generations to come. The exhibit’s website went live July 1, and features photos, an introduction to the exhibit, and other related materials. It’s found at americanenterprise.si.edu.

Model farm featured in the exhibition.

AFBF, other ag and industry groups ask court to ditch EPA’s unlawful water rule —From the AFBF Public Relations Team & Kathleen M. Dutro INFB Public Relations Team The American Farm Bureau Federation, Texas Farm Bureau, Matagorda County Farm Bureau, and 11 other agricultural and industry groups have asked a federal court to vacate the controversial new rule redefining the scope of federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act. The complaint, filed July 2 in federal district court in Texas, claims the new rule grants EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers broad control over land use far beyond what Congress authorized in the Clean Water Act. The lawsuit also claims vagueness and overbreadth of the rule violate the U.S. Constitution. The groups also challenged EPA’s aggressive grassroots advocacy campaign during

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the comment period, which reflected a closed mind to concerns expressed by farmers and others. EPA and the Corps first proposed the rule in March 2014, promising clarity and certainty to farmers, ranchers, builders and other affected businesses and landowners. “Instead we have a final rule that exceeds the agencies’ legal authority and fails to provide the clarity that was promised,” said Ellen Steen, AFBF general counsel. “AFBF filed this lawsuit to do everything we can to protect the interests of farmers and ranchers, but litigation is not a quick or perfect fix.” While AFBF and others turn to the courts, a bill currently before the Senate, if passed, would require EPA and the Corps to abandon the rule and conduct a new rulemaking. “Lawsuit or no lawsuit, we need Congress to act,”

AFBF President Bob Stallman said. “We need legislation that requires an honest rulemaking from EPA. EPA water regulations must protect water quality without bulldozing the rights of farmers and others whose livelihoods depend on their ability to work the land.” According to the AFBF complaint, “the Agencies are determined to exert jurisdiction over a staggering range of dry land and water features – whether large or small, permanent, intermittent or ephemeral, flowing or stagnant, natural or manmade, interstate or intrastate.” The AFBF lawsuit follows four similar suits filed by officials representing 27 states, all within two days of the rule’s publication on June 29. A group of nine states – West Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, South Carolina, Utah and Wisconsin – has

Visitors can enter the cab of a tractor and confront the modern agricultural and business challenges experienced by farmers in today’s economy. Shown are some students testing out the interactive experience.

asked a federal district court in Georgia for a preliminary injunction to stop implementation of the rule while the lawsuit is resolved. Ohio and Michigan have a separate suit in Ohio also seeking preliminary relief. Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller said on July 6 that his office, representing the Indiana, will join the amended complaint that will be filed soon. He said he has heard from Hoosier members of the agricultural community and state agency clients, all of whom have urged Indiana to join the multistate challenge as coplaintiff. “We appreciate the lead-

ership and dedication of all the states that have challenged the rule, and we fully support their efforts,” Steen said. AFBF’s co-plaintiffs are the American Petroleum Institute, American Road and Transportation Builders, Leading Builders of America, National Alliance of Forest Owners, National Association of Home Builders, National Association of Manufacturers, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Mining Association, National Pork Producers Council and Public Lands Council.

July 20, 2015

COMING SOON

INFB Almanac: Dates to Remember INFB membership sweepstakes INFB July Membership Sweepstakes Members who sign a new voting member between July 1 and July 31 will be entered into a drawing for a $500 prize. Deadline for memberships to be postmarked: July 31, 2015 INFB August Membership Sweepstakes Members who sign a new voting member between Aug. 1 and Aug 31 will be entered into a drawing for a $500 prize. Deadline for memberships to be postmarked: Aug. 31, 2015 For more information and to see official rules for these contests as well as other membership events, visit www.infarmbureau.org/infb/about-us/membership-sweepstakes.

Indiana State Fair Aug. 7-23 – “Year of the Farmer”

Young Farmer Achievement and Excellence in Agriculture Awards

Young Farmer Social: Aug. 15, 3-5 p.m., banquet hall attached to the Farm Bureau building on the State Fairgrounds. Young farmers are invited to register and attend an ice cream social event during the Indiana State Fair. Young farmers can register and receive up to four complimentary State Fair admission tickets as well family food vouchers. Register online at www.infb.org by July 31.

Application deadline: Aug. 1

INFB Old-Fashioned Pancake Breakfast: Aug. 19 (Farmer’s Day)

To find out more about both the Young Farmer Achievement Award and the Young Farmer Excellence in Agriculture Award, visit www.infb.org and look under “Programs” and then “Young Farmer.” George, Vince and Carla Kakasuleff, 2014 winners of the INFB Young Farmer Achievement Award. Photo by Rachel Schrage

INFB Resolutions Committee Meeting Aug. 3-5 Indiana Farm Bureau home office, Indianapolis

Taste from Indiana Farms: Aug. 18-20 Also planned for the Farm Bureau Building throughout the fair are interactive exhibits, a scavenger hunt and Farm Bureau’s famous free popcorn (courtesy of Preferred Popcorn), which will be served from noon to 5 p.m. each day.

Big Data & Technology Workshop Aug. 14 Indiana Farm Bureau home office, Indianapolis Sponsored by the Indiana Ag Law Foundation For more information: John Shoup, jshoup@INAgLaw.org, 317-692-7801; Maria Spellman, mspellman@infb.org; www.inaglaw.org/education.aspx.

The 2014 resolutions committee posing in the atrium of Farm Bureau’s home office. Photo by Kathleen M. Dutro

INFB Leaders in Action Session 4: Aug. 7 and 8, Indiana Farm Bureau home office, Indianapolis. Session 5: Sept. 14-16, Washington, D.C.

July 20, 2015

Depositphotos.com/windjunkie

INFB Drainage School Aug. 27 Indiana Farm Bureau home office, Indianapolis Open to farmers, public officials, agency personnel, attorneys and members of the public, the purpose of the seminar is to promote an understanding of the laws and regulations that control drainage laws and dispute resolutions. Cost is $50, and the deadline to register is Aug. 7 or until the space fills. Register online at www. infarmbureau.org under the “Events” menu. The seminar is $50. Contact Maria Spellman, 317-6927840 or mspellman@infarmbureau.org.

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COMING SOON

INFB Summer Delegate Session Aug. 29 Indianapolis Jim Walsh discusses an issue during the 2014 delegate session. Photo by Mindy Reef

Agricultural Leadership Exchange’s Germany Agricultural Study Tour

INFB Before the Harvest Event

Aug. 31-Sept.11

Sept. 1 Location TBD

Germany, Belgium and Brussels Michigan Farm Bureau is partnering with Indiana Farm Bureau to present this study tour.

The 2014 Before the Harvest, which was held at the Cherry farm in Hancock County. Before the Harvest is organized by the INFB public policy team and is designed to be a fun farm outing for legislators. Photo by Kathleen M. Dutro

Collegiate Farm Bureau Discussion Meets

Collegiate Farm Bureau Call-Out Meetings

Vincennes University: Oct. 14 Purdue University: Oct. 22

Vincennes University: Sept. 10 Purdue University: Sept. 10

Young Farmer Discussion Meet

IFB Young Farmer trip to the USDA’s September crop report lockup

Registration deadline: Oct. 16 The discussion meet will be held during INFB’s annual convention in December. For more, visit www.infb.org and look under “Programs” and then “Young Farmer.”

Sept. 10-12 Washington, D.C.

INFB Campaign Management School

National FFA Convention

INFB State Convention

Oct. 28-31

Nov. 15-17

Louisville

Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis

Nov. 4 and 5

AFBF 2015 Annual Meeting

Indiana Farm Bureau home office, Indianapolis

Indiana Cooperative Summit

Jan. 10-13, 2016 Orlando, Florida Jeremy Barron of Noble County participates in the AFBF Young Farmer & Rancher Discussion meet, held as part of the 2015 annual meeting in San Diego. Barron qualified for the meet’s final four. Photo by Mindy Reef

Nov. 6 Hoosier Energy, Bloomington

INFB Young Farmer Leadership Conference Jan. 29-31, 2016 Indianapolis Marriott East

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John Feutz and a very young farmer at the 2015 Young Farmer Conference. Photo by Rachel Schrage

July 20, 2015

COMMUNICATION

Bloggers learn about dairy farming —By Rachel Schrage Public Relations Team

Fred Kunkel (right) showed Al Jazeera America around his Adams County farm, which was partially under water due to flooding of the St. Mary’s river. The interview highlighted the many ways Kunkel and farmers like him are using nutrient management strategies to keep water clean. The interview will air nationally and internationally on Al Jazeera English. Photo by Rachel Schrage

A small group of mostly non-farm bloggers spent June 17 learning all about dairy. The group toured a Prairie Farms processing plant and the Kuehnert Dairy Farm in Ft. Wayne. As you may expect, antibiotics, hormones and animal welfare were topics of concern for everyone on the tour. The first stop was the Prairie Farms plant, where they learned about getting milk

from the farm to the grocery store and the steps taken in between to ensure safety along the way. At Kuehnert Dairy, bloggers got the opportunity to see a robotic milker in action. They also learned about what the Kuehnerts do to make sure that their cows are happy and healthy, without risking consumer safety. At the end of the day, bloggers took home a sampling of Prairie Farms goodies and a new appreciation for the farmers who grow their food.

‘Indiana Grown’ brand officially launches —By Mindy Reef Public Relations Team As the local food trend continues, Hoosier shoppers will have a new way to identify products grown or made in their home state. The Indiana State Department of Agriculture officially launched the Indiana Grown Initiative on July 7 at Waterman’s Family Farm in Indianapolis. Indiana Grown is a col-

laborative initiative to promote Indiana-produced agricultural products to consumers, restaurants, grocery stores, farmers markets, processors and other retail businesses in the state. “Having a brand for Indiana products will help our farmer members who are interested in the local food business expand their markets and increase their profitability,” said Bob White, INFB’s retail agriculture spe-

cialist and a member of the Indiana Grown Commission. Three different Indiana Grown labels will differentiate products or a company’s role. An item marked “100% Indiana” is grown, sourced and packaged in the state. A “Prepared in Indiana” sticker indicates that while the product’s ingredients may have come from elsewhere, the production was completed in Indiana. An “Indiana Grown Partner”

label is available for companies that assist in marketing Indiana Grown products and members. An app for finding the farm that an Indiana Grown product came from is also available. Look for the Indiana Grown Locator app in the Apple and Google Play stores on your smartphone. Indiana Grown membership is open to any person, farm or business involved in creating, producing, pro-

cessing or marketing Indiana products. Learn more on the Indiana Grown website, www.indianagrown.org.

Members offered chance to join Latin American ag adventures —By Rachel Schrage Public Relations Team

You may have seen this or a similar membership ad in one of the ag publications that hits your mailbox each week. INFB is running print ads and radio spots through the end of September. If your county Farm Bureau would like a clean version for local media placements, contact the PR team’s Mindy Reef at 317692-7822.

July 20, 2015

A company that offers agriculturally-themed international trips has a few spots open on tours to Panama and Chile with other Farm Bureaus. Explorations by Thor, which was one of the presenters at last year’s state convention trade show, is the tour organizer. Kentucky’s Fayette County Farm Bureau is hosting the trip to Panama. It is Jan. 1523, 2016, and includes a full Panama Canal transit, wildlife viewing, a visit to a pineapple farm, beaches and plenty of adventure. Delaware Farm Bureau has organized the trip to Chile. The trip will take place Jan. 22 to Feb. 1, 2016. On this 10-day tour, you will see the highlights of Chilean agriculture and have plenty of time leftover for leisure activities. If you are interesting in seeing a complete itinerary or pricing for one or both trips, email askus@infb.org and request a flyer.

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AROUND INFB

Where can you find Waldo? State convention —By Mindy Reef Public Relations Team Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Rob “Waldo” Waldman will be the keynote speaker during the 2015 Indiana Farm Bureau state convention. Waldman will deliver a presentation on the value of teamwork on Sunday, Nov. 15, during the 6:30 p.m. general session. The session will also feature the Impact Awards, County Recognition Program and scholarship recipients. Waldman is a professional speaker and author of Never Fly Solo, a bestseller about leadership and team building.

Rob “Waldo” Waldman

As a child, Waldman suffered from claustrophobia and a fear of heights. He overcame his fears and be-

came a fighter pilot with more than 65 combat missions in Iraq and Serbia. He message for effective teams includes building trust with people he calls “wingmen,” the people who help others overcome obstacles, adapt to change and achieve success. Waldman is a graduate of the U.S Air Force Academy and holds an MBA with a focus on organizational behavior. He is a member of the National Speakers Association Speaker Hall of Fame, an honor fewer than 200 speakers in the world have received. In addition to public speaking, he is founder and

president of The Wingman Foundation, a 501(c)(3) with a mission to build funds and awareness for soldiers, veterans and their families in need. Registration for state convention opens the first week of August. Convention runs Nov. 15-17 in Indianapolis.

This is a Sunday-Tuesday rather than a Thursday-Saturday. Most events will be at the Indiana Convention Center. Keep reading The Hoosier Farmer and watching your email for more information.

Hybrids will share how that company uses data to increase productivity. Dr. Mike Schutz from Purdue Extension will talk about data use in the dairy industry. Indiana Farm Bureau is a sponsor of the workshop, which will be held at INFB’s home office in Indianapolis.

The registration fee is $75 as of the time this edition of The Hoosier Farmer went to press. Space is limited and the seminar includes lunch. Registration and details are available at www.inaglaw. org/bigdata.

IALF offers big data seminar —By Mindy Reef Public Relations Team While the technology that has arrived on the farm in the last few years has helped farmers, it comes with concerns about data use, privacy and security. The Indiana Agricultural Law Foundation is offering a seminar on Aug. 14 to help farmers understand big data issues and how big data can be used for practical purposes. “Farmers understand that by adopting new technolo-

gies, they also create more data on their farms,” said John Shoup, director of the IALF. “They need to ask a number of questions. Who owns the data? Is it secure? Who can access it? How can I use the data to increase my bottom line?” Big data refers to data whose scale, diversity and complexity require new systems to manage and extract value and knowledge from it. Attendees of the day-long event will hear from Jay Akridge, Purdue’s Glenn W. Sample dean of agriculture,

on emerging trends and university’s engagement; attorney Todd Janzen, who will discuss data privacy agreements and transparency; and attorney Kathleen Rice, who will give an overview on data security, data privacy and risk management. The afternoon focuses on information that will help farmers increase profitability using data. That segment features representatives from the Pig Improvement Company, who will talk about data in swine breeding, and Ryan White of Beck’s

MEMBER BENEFIT

Promotional items available for county Farm Bureaus —By Rachel Schrage Public Relations Team If you need promotional items for your county fair or an upcoming event, look no further than the county logo promotional items catalogue, found in the Members Only portion of the INFB website.

A variety of items, from Frisbees to potholders, can be purchased with your county Farm Bureau logo. The catalogue also includes a list of stock items available from the home office. You must be logged in to itpaystobeamember.org to access the county logo promotional items catalogue.

The link can be found under the Members Only tab, in the County Presidents/Volunteers section. Specific details and ordering instructions can be found in the catalogue. If you have questions or you are unable to access the catalogue, contact Tracie Trent at ttrent@infb.org.

Members receive

35% OFF

†*

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www.thehoosierfarmer.com

July 20, 2015

AROUND INFB

Membership sweepstakes offered for July, August —By Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team

Members will have at least two more chances to win: There’s still a little time left to participate in the July membership sweepstakes, and in addition, a membership sweepstakes has been announced for August. Any Farm Bureau member who signs a new voting member between July 1 and July 31 will be entered to win one $500 gift card,

Joan Schickel of Harrison County is the winner of the $500 prize in the June membership sweepstakes. She won by signing a new voting member in June and having her name drawn from among all those who signed a new voting member between June 1 and June 30.

while a Farm Bureau member who signs a new voting member between Aug. 1 and Aug. 31 will be entered in the sweepstakes for another $500 gift card. To be eligible, your name must appear in the “referred by” box on a new member’s application. Your name will be entered once for every new voting member that you sign. Applications for the July

sweepstakes must be postmarked by July 31, and the drawing will take place on Aug. 6. For the August sweepstakes, applications must be postmarked by Aug. 31. Completed applications for either sweepstakes contest should be sent to: Indiana Farm Bureau, Attention: K. Rogers – Membership Contest, P.O. Box 1290, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

For more information and to see official rules, visit www.infarmbureau.org/ infb/about-us/membershipsweepstakes.

Passage of TPA signals that the US ‘means business’ in trade talks —By Kathleen M. Dutro Public Relations Team

Received

Member’s E-mail (Please print clearly)

/ / Member’s Signature

 Cash $  Check No. We respect your privacy and will never rent or sell your information. By providing your email address you are opting in to receive email from our company, and you may request to stop receiving emails from us at any time. Return completed application to your County Farm Bureau Office, membership volunteer, or mail to Indiana Farm Bureau, P.O. Box 1290, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

Annual Primary dues are $32.50. Select and Student membership annual dues are $15.00. Primary membership is a prerequisite for purchasing a Select Membership. Membership Volunteer’s or Writing Agent’s Name

THF2015 SC2015 __ __ __ __ Spouse’s SSN (Last 4) ) Spouse Phone ( )(

Type of Farming Operation _______________________________________ Internal Use Only ) Member’s SSN (Last 4) __ __ __ __

Spouse’s Birth Date

Township

Voting Members: No. Acres ____________________ Member’s Birth Date Member Phone ( )(

Type of Membership  Primary  Select  Student

Township Number

(State) (City) Address (Street, Road, R.R., Box No., P.O. Box)

July 20, 2015

 Voting  Associate

A voting member is an individual, a partnership, an unincorporated association or a corporation who owns or operates a farm or who is engaged and derives income from agriculture. Agriculture includes commercial production of plants, aquatic species, forestry, animals, beekeeping and related production activities. Farms commercially produce and market agricultural commodities or products. An associate member is any person, firm or corporation interested in agriculture to any degree less than that required for a voting membership. Membership Classification (check one)

Membership Number County Number County Farm Bureau

(Zip Code)

(Middle) (First) Spouse Name (Last) (Middle) (First) Your Name (Last) Today’s Date

Cut out application along dashed lines. Shaded areas to be completed in county and state offices.

Donald B. Villwock, President

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

To make it easier for members wanting enter the June and July membership contests, we’re now including a membership application here in The Hoosier Farmer. Cut the application form out or make copies and give them to new potential members. Remember to have them put your name in the membership volunteer box so that your name is entered in the contest, then send it to the address printed along the bottom of the form. You can also have them go to INFB’s membership site, www.itpaystobeamember.org, to sign up online.

After months of wrangling and controversy, Congress has passed the bill that authorizes trade promotion authority, or “TPA.” Farm Bureau was a strong supporter of the legislation. “We lead the world in agricultural exports but will soon give up customers and potential markets without the trade promotion authority needed to secure important new trade agreements,” American Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman said shortly before the bill’s passage. The bill was approved by the House on a narrow 218-208 vote, then by the Senate 60-38. It was signed by President Obama on June 29. The trade promotion authority authorized by the legislation now lasts until 2018 and can be extended until 2021. The passage “sends a strong signal to foreign governments that we mean business at the bargaining table and are ready to com-

plete new agreements that will break down trade barriers and open new markets from Asia to Europe,” Stallman said. According to AFBF, U.S. agricultural exports exceeded $152 billion last year, but could fall this year due in part to the challenges U.S. negotiators are facing in reducing trade barriers. Indiana is a leading producer and exporter of agricultural products, ranking 8th among the 50 U.S. states in the value of its agricultural exports, according to the USDA’s TPA fact sheet (www.fas.usda.gov/tradepromotion-authority-statespecific-information). “Hoosier farmers rely on foreign markets and exports at a greater level than most other states,” said Kyle Cline, Indiana Farm Bureau national policy advisor. “Passage of TPA will provide the necessary framework to complete historic trade agreements like TPP, boosting demand for our ag products while increasing farm incomes.” Trade promotion authority (sometimes called “fast-track

trade authority”) is an administrative tool that defines the framework for considering trade agreements. Under TPA, Congress retains final approval authority and its critical role in setting objectives and priorities for trade negotiations, but the authority eliminates the possibility of deal-killing amendments. It’s been used by every presidential administration for over 30 years. Now that TPA has become law, Farm Bureau is now concentrating on two key treaties: the Trans-Pacific Partnership and Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership. “Without the ability to finish negotiations and present those agreements to Congress for an up or down ratification vote, we are ceding potential market development and expansion to our competitors and yielding global economic leadership to other nations,” Stallman said in a letter to lawmakers urging them to pass the TPA bill.

Calendar of Events

July 25 30, 31 31

District 6 summer outing (starts at Beck’s Hybrids, Atlanta, Indiana). INFB Board of Directors meeting, Indianapolis. Deadline for entry in the July membership sweepstakes, www.infarmbureau.org/ infb/about-us/membership-sweepskates.

August 1 3-5 7, 8 7-23 14 15 18-20 22 22 25 27 27, 28 29

Deadline for applying for the Young Farmer Achievement and Excellence in Agriculture awards. INFB resolutions committee meeting, home office. INFB Leaders in Action program, session 4, home office. Indiana State Fair, Indianapolis. Big Data & Technology Workshop, home office. Young Farmer Social, Indiana State Fair. (Registration deadline: July 31.) Taste from Indiana Farms, Indiana State Fair. District 7 family picnic. District 8 farm tour. District 3 fall meeting, Fair Oaks. INFB Drainage School, home office. INFB Board of Directors meeting, Indianapolis. INFB summer delegate session, Indianapolis.