July 2011, Volume 15, Issue 5

July 2011

3

Volume 15, Issue 5

6

速

Idaho Farm Bureau

12

Boundary County FB

Palouse Farms

Valley / Adams

Hosts Farm Tour

Sit Idle

FB Grazing Tour

Weather is a House of Cards for Agriculture

The Ag Agenda

By Bob Stallman AFBF President

Mother Nature has played her hand against farmers and ranchers in recent months. Both flooding and drought—sometimes right on the opposite sides of the river—have devastated crops and hurt livestock producers. But, as all farmers and ranchers know, we must play the cards we are dealt.

Luck of the Draw Farmers gamble against the weather

Reasonable Immigration Reform Essential for Agriculture

By Frank Priestley President Idaho Farm Bureau Federation

Farmers and ranchers face a shortage of workers who are willing and able to work. Reforming the immigration system must assure that

Funding Infastructure Projects

By Rick Keller CEO Idaho Farm Bureau Federation

Farm Bureau is currently developing policy positions for 2012. Funding infrastructure projects is one of the topics being considered. What are your ideas? Please let us know.

Many of the roads and bridges need2

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

every day. Some days you win big, others you just have to fold. Unfortunately, both tornadoes and extensive flooding in the South and Midwest has given many farmers pause.

Sadly, in many cases, they’ve seen their livelihoods literally blown or washed away. In Alabama alone, an estimated 25 percent of the poultry houses were destroyed by tornadoes. But, as tough as farmers and ranchers’ losses have been, it’s important that we stay focused

on moving forward to quickly rebuild their operations and make sure they stay viable.

American agriculture has a legal, stable supply of workers, both in the short- and the long-term. This includes attracting a sufficient number of competent, willing and able employees; allowing the recruitment and hiring of non-resident agricultural workers when the need is demonstrated; and allowing an opportunity for some current non-resident agricultural workers to apply for legal resident status.

Bureau economic analysis concluded that $5 billon to 9 billion in annual production is in jeopardy if the employee shortage cannot be met. Jobs in agriculture are physically demanding, conducted in all seasons and often transitory. To most U.S. residents seeking employment, these conditions are not attractive. Yet, for many prospective workers from other countries, these jobs present real economic opportunities.

American agriculture faces a shortage of workers every year. A Farm ed to transport our children safely to school, deliver our goods from the farm to market or even to allow barges to move down the river are in serious need of repair and modernization. The funding for these projects comes from local, state and federal governments, and many of these governmental entities will likely have substantially fewer financial resources in the future.

Our nation’s infrastructure—the roads, bridges, levees, dams, and inland waterways—are critical components of our society and our

As for the flooding, there are two national concerns we have to begin thinking about: rebuilding the levees and ensuring the rivers stay open for navigation.

The past has shown us that if levees aren’t rebuilt immediately, once See STALLMAN, page 31

See PRIESTLEY, page 31

economy. These are the structures that bring us clean water, let us move goods to market, and let our families move from point A to point B. But much of this infrastructure is old and has not been properly maintained over the last several decades.

In 2009, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave the nation’s total infrastructure a grade of D and estimated it would require $2.2 trillion over 5 years to bring things back to a passing grade.

See KELLER, page 38

Volume 15, Issue 5 IFBF OFFICERS President ....................................Frank Priestley, Franklin Vice President .................................. Mark Trupp, Driggs Executive Vice President ............................... Rick Keller BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bryan Searle ............................................................ Shelley Scott Bird ........................................................... Pocatello Chris Dalley ........................................................Blackfoot Dean Schwendiman ............................................Newdale Danny Ferguson ........................................................ Rigby Scott Steele ..................................................... Idaho Falls Gerald Marchant ................................................... Oakley Rick Pearson .................................................... Hagerman Mike Garner............................................................... Declo Curt Krantz ............................................................ Parma Mike McEvoy..................................................... Middleton Tracy Walton ....................................................... Emmett Marjorie French ............................................... Princeton Bob Callihan ......................................................... Potlatch Louis Kins ........................................................... Kootenai Carol Guthrie ......................................................... Inkom Austin Tubbs............................................................... Malad STAFF Dir. of Admin. Services ........................ Nancy Shiozawa Dir. of Member Services ................................... Ray Poe Dir. of Commodities ............................. Dennis Brower Commodity Assistant .................................. Peggy Pratt Membership Assistant ............................... Peggy Moore Market Information Assistant . ................ Dixie Ashton Dist. I Regional Manager ........................... Justin Patten Dist. II Regional Manager ....................... Kendall Keller Dist. III Regional Manager ................... Charles Garner Dist. IV Regional Manager ................... Russ Hendricks Dist. V Regional Manager ....................... Bob Smathers Director of Governmental Affairs ............ Kent Lauer Asst. Dir. of Governmental Affairs .... Dennis Tanikuni Range/Livestock Specialist........................... Wally Butler Director of Public Relations .............. John Thompson Video Services Manager ............................. Steve Ritter Broadcast Services Manager .................... Jake Putnam Office Manager, Boise ................... Julie Christoffersen Member Services Manager ........................ Joel Benson Printed by: Owyhee Publishing, Homedale, ID GEM STATE PRODUCER USPS #015-024, is published monthly except February, May, August and November by the IDAHO FARM BUREAU FEDERATION, 275 Tierra Vista Drive, Pocatello, ID 83201.

POSTMASTER send changes of address to: GEM STATE PRODUCER P.O. Box 4848, Pocatello, ID 83205-4848.

Periodicals postage paid at Pocatello, Idaho, and additional mailing offices.

Subscription rate: $6.00 per year included in Farm Bureau dues.

MAGAZINE CONTACTS: Idaho Farm Bureau Federation EDITOR (208) 239-4292 • ADS (208) 239-4279 E-MAIL: dashton@idahofb.org www.idahofb.org

Cover: Buffalo on a ranch in Boundary County.

Photo by Steve Ritter

Whitetail deer (background) cause problems for farmers when the fawns hide in alfalfa fields.

Boundary County Farm Bureau recently hosted a farm tour for area residents. This photo was taken at Boundary County FB President Tom Daniel’s farm.

Boundary County FB Hosts Farm Tour

By John Thompson Photos by Steve Ritter BONNERS FERRY – In an effort to reach out and communicate with consumers, the Boundary County Farm Bureau recently hosted a farm tour.

About 50 Boundary County residents, from all walks of life spent several hours on a bus ride looking at farms and learning about agriculture on June 21. Boundary County FB President Tom Daniel was happy to see that many people attend the tour and he said it was a good opportunity for farmers and ranchers to share information about what they do and the food they produce.

The tour highlighted the diverse agriculture in Boundary County including, hops production, wheat, fruit orchards, nursery crops and trees, peas and lentils, livestock and a local meat processing business. “More and more people seem to be interested in knowing more about where their food comes from,” Daniel said. “We see this as a great opportunity to take advantage of that trend and educate consumers about agriculture from a farmer’s perspective.”

Colet Allen, a Boundary County resident who attended the tour said she is interested in locally produced food and was not aware of what is available locally. She attended the tour to learn more about local food and came away impressed and “enlightened.”

“I learned some things I didn’t know about my county, it was enlightening and enSee FARM TOUR page 4 Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

3

Farm tour

Continued from page 3

Wheat, foreground and alfalfa, background, growing in a field on a bench above the valley floor in Boundary County.

couraging,” she said. “I have so much respect for farmers, they have to be so diligent and there are so many things to know.

Using food produced locally is important to me and I wanted to see what is available in this area.”

The Boundary County Soil Conservation District co-sponsored the tour. They provided information on improvements done to a local stream to allow better fish passage.

After seeing several different farming operations and listening to descriptions and historical information on agriculture in the area, the group was treated to lunch and spent the rest of the afternoon at Wood’s Meat Processing, on Highway 95 north of Sandpoint.

The meat processing plant is 4 #

part of Wood’s V – X Ranch, a fifth generation cattle operation founded in 1940. The meat processing part of the business was established in 1973 by Steve and Louise Wood as an outlet for the company’s beef.

Since then it has grown into a well-known retail / wholesale meat business. The V – X (pronounced V bar X) Brand can be purchased in grocery stores throughout the region and is carried by many restaurants.

The company is also known for producing an excellent variety of sausages, ham, bacon and several other products.

Customers can purchase V – X meat retail at the ranch, have their own livestock custom processed at the plant, or the company purchases hogs, lambs, beef and some poultry for processing and retail sale.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

Steve Wood said a big part of the company’s business is processing livestock from local ranches. About one-third of the beef they butcher is raised on the ranch. The rest is custom cut. They process about 25 hogs per week, many of which are sold whole for barbecues and parties. They also process lambs, turkeys and a few buffalo each month. In the fall, a big part of their business is processing wild game.

“The key to keeping this business going has been that we’ve been able to find ways to stay busy during the slow times of the year,” Wood said. “The retail / wholesale business has helped us get through the slow periods.”

Colet Allen said she was impressed with the meat process-

ing business and it helped her better understand how livestock becomes meat. “After seeing everything that goes on here I was impressed with the cleanliness of the place,” she said. “It’s also important to consumers to know that animals are being treated in a humane way and I believe that’s the case here.”

President Daniel said Boundary County agriculture is unique and they are proud to show it off. “People are getting more and more interested in food and where it comes from,” he said.

Daniel added that farmers and ranchers have an opportunity to educate those people about food production in a positive manner, rather than allowing agriculture’s adversaries to spread misinformation.

An employee making sausage at Wood’s Meat Processing near Sandpoint.

A fish passage project on Twentymile Creek in Boundary County allows fish to travel upstream by making gradual elevation gains.

Steve Wood of Wood’s V – X Ranch and Wood’s Meat Processing explains some of the record keeping the company uses to track and dry age beef.

This small orchard in Boundary County was damaged by herbicide drift from a nearby field.

See FARM TOUR page 6 Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

5

Farm tour

Continued from page 5

Production of hops in Boundary County dropped drastically in recent years when Anheuser-Busch was sold to the In-Bev Corporation of Holland.

Busch owned a large hops farm in Boundary County. The poles in this photograph are used to support hops plants but since the market for hops disappeared, farmers have had to adapt to growing other crops between the rows of hops poles. In this photo you can see volunteer canola under the poles.

Celebrating 50 years with low-interest rate loans.

IDAHO FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES

To celebrate our 50th anniversary in 2011, we’ve reduced interest rates on new (and many other) loan products. Ask us today about loans for:

Cars Motorcycles Boats ATVs Home Improvements More!

Boundary County FB President Tom Daniel speaks about agriculture to a tour group. About 50 area residents took that tour sponsored by Boundary County Farm Bureau and the Boundary County Soil and Water Conservation District.

6

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

Call us toll-free at 1-888-566-3276 or contact the IDFBFS office nearest you: Pocatello: 239-4259 Boise: 947-2521 Caldwell: 455-1526. Apply for a loan anytime online by visiting www.idfbfs.com.

The owners of Idaho Milk Products in Jerome would not allow Idaho FB to take photographs during a recent tour of their new $100 million plant near Jerome. The IFBF Dairy Committee met at the Twin Falls County office after the tour to discuss business and policy matters.

FB Dairy Committee Tours Powder Plant

By John Thompson JEROME – Three large Magic Valley dairy operators recently opened a plant near Jerome that will process over three million pounds of milk per day into cream, milk protein concentrate and other products.

The plant utilizes state of the art technology including reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, diafiltration and spray drying and was built with future expansion in mind.

Milk protein concentrate (MPC) is used in energy drinks, protein bars and hundreds of other products. Eric Aardema, an Idaho Milk Products employee who hosted a recent tour for the Idaho Farm Bureau Dairy Committee, said the outstanding efficiency

of the plant allows the company to offer fresh products and demand has been brisk.

The plant is the largest of its kind in the world and the company is currently shipping its products to several different countries. The products and process are unique due to the fact that the plant runs on a 24-hour cycle. All of their products come from the milking parlor to final packaging within 24 hours.

Idaho Milk Products Inc. is owned by three of the largest independent dairies in Idaho – Bettancourt Dairies and Aardema Dairies, both of Wendell and Big Sky Dairies of Jerome. Together they produce over seven million pounds of milk per day.

As previously mentioned, the new plant takes in about three million pounds of milk per day. The cream is separated, shipped and sold to companies that make butter, ice cream and other dairy products. After the water is removed, it is filtered using reverse osmosis and this “cow water” is used to clean the plant. The company uses very little water from outside sources.

After the cream is taken off, what’s left is processed into fat, protein and carbohydrates. From there the company can formulate its products to meet customer demand.

For more information on the company go to: idahomilkproducts.com.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

7

North Idaho is dotted with fields that did not get planted this spring because of extreme weather. Many of the fields are rutted from tractors when farmers attempted to plant crops.

Photo by Steve Ritter

Wet Spring Idles North Idaho Farms

By John Thompson It’s a view that’s entirely unprecedented; north Idaho’s Palouse Prairie, normally green and lush with wheat, legumes and alfalfa, is dotted with fields of dull brown grain stubble, laced with muddy ruts.

Over 90,000 acres of north Idaho farmland sit idle this summer due to wet spring conditions that stifled farmers’ attempts to plant their crops. Many farmers who tried to plant or till fields fought a losing battle with the thick, black mud. Even in late June many fields were too wet to do anything with. Tractors and pickups throughout the region are coated with black Palouse mud.

According to Ron Abbott, farm programs chief for the Farm Service Agency, the hardest hit counties are Lewis, Idaho and 8

Latah, with 24,000, 22,000 and 18,000 acres respectively of land that could not be planted by federal crop insurance deadlines. Other north Idaho counties also affected include Benewah with 9,700 acres, Nez Perce with 6,600, Kootenai with 5,700 and Clearwater with 4,200.

Statewide there were 102,000 total acres that could not be planted this spring. Fremont County, reporting 6,300 acres, in eastern Idaho, was the hardest hit aside from the northern counties. Other counties reporting in excess of 1,000 acres affected by the wet spring and flooding from excess runoff include Caribou, Bear Lake, Jefferson, Bingham and Teton.

Nez Perce County farmer Robert Blair said his farm’s rain gauge has measured precipitation every week since mid-February.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

“Lewiston has received the highest levels of rainfall this year since they started keeping records in 1881,” he said. “At my farm we have received 15 inches of rain since the first of the year. Normal is 20 to 22 inches per year.”

Blair said some farmers elected to go ahead and plant after the crop insurance deadline passed, increasing the odds for reduced yields. Overall, Blair says acreage affected by the wet spring is between 25 and 30 percent of the total cropland in north Idaho.

The alfalfa that was just starting to bloom during the last week of June is a full three weeks behind normal, he said.

It’s just unprecedented in north Idaho,” Blair said. “Even the insurance companies and risk management (USRMA) never had an issue this big with not being able to

plant. Lots of fields are sitting fallow eastern Washington too.

Farmers who purchased crop insurance but could not plant can recover 60 to about 80 percent of the value of their proven yield.

However, the amount that can be recovered through insurance depends on the level of insurance purchased.

Farmers, as well as businesses that support agriculture in various ways, are reeling from the extraordinary weather. Blair said some farmers who could not plant wheat or legumes in time planted barley instead because it matures faster. However, when he looked into it, he couldn’t buy barley seed – it was all gone. The seed companies have tons of spring wheat and legume seed on hand at a time when they need to start making space to store winter wheat seed.

Blair said pea and lentil companies are

having difficulty planning orders for the coming year because of the uncertainty of availability. Other pea and lentil producing states, Montana and the Dakotas, had the same difficult spring conditions, so supply of those crops is expected to be tight this fall and into 2012.

Stripe rust, a grain fungus, is another widespread problem this spring. Wind and wet conditions have hampered fungicide application and the fungus has damaged wheat across the state.

“We will probably see less income all the way around this year at the farm gate,” Blair said. “Yields will be bumper in some areas but I don’t see how we will make up for letting 90,000 acres sit idle.”

If half of the idled Palouse acreage was planted in soft white spring wheat and average yield were 50 bushels per acre, the

total would be about 2.25 million bushels.

Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter requested federal assistance for both flooding and crop related disaster in a letter to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack on June 15.

Otter signed a statewide disaster proclamation on May 27. The June 15 letter states “heavy accumulations of snowpack, historically high snow / water equivalent ranging from 107 percent to 766 percent of normal, late spring runoff,” and other concerns justify the need for federal assistance. Nine counties have requested state assistance under the proclamation including Bingham, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Idaho, Jefferson, Nez Perce, Madison and Shoshone. Benewah and Kootenai counties have declared county disasters due to agricultural loss.

Flooded farmland in northern Boundary County near the Canadian border.

Photo by Steve Ritter

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

9

Focus on Agriculture Cutting Farm Programs Would be a Pyrrhic Victory

By Lynne Finnerty Most of the programs in the farm bill will expire next year and the debate over a new farm bill has begun.

Spending cuts will be needed. Congress must bring down the federal debt. With no prospect for more spending, competition for the remaining dollars is intense. Some would like to eliminate farm payments and redirect that funding—less than one-half of 1 percent of total federal spending—to other areas.

The debate about farm payments brings to mind the term “Pyrrhic victory.” King Pyrrhus ruled the Greek state of Epirus in the third century B.C. When the Greek city of Tarentum in southern Italy feared invasion by Rome, the Tarentines asked Pyrrhus, who had a strong army, for help. Pyrrhus, seeing a chance to expand his rule, agreed.

After two bloody battles, Pyrrhus defeated the Romans. However, Pyrrhus lost so many of his best soldiers that he is said to have remarked, “With another such victory, we will be finished!” He battled the Romans again five years later and lost. His legacy is the lesson that some victories are not worth what it costs to win them.

10

Similar to Pyrrhus’ seeing an opportunity to gain control of part of Italy, special interests outside of agriculture see an opportunity to expand their grasp of farm bill funding. But, the portion of the farm bill that actually goes to farmers has already shrunk. Farm programs in 2010 accounted for just 7 percent of farm bill funding, compared with 33 percent in 2002.

Nutrition programs, on the other hand, have grown, accounting for a whopping 80 percent of the farm bill in 2010, compared to 52 percent in 2002. Conservation programs take up about 5 percent of the funding authorized by the farm bill.

Most crop prices in recent years have been high enough to not trigger price support payments. Meanwhile, restrictive payment and income limits have made some of the most productive farmers ineligible to participate in farm programs.

As a result, farm programs are already a shrinking piece of the farm-bill pie. That piece of pie, however, remains important to our agricultural productivity and food security. That mere 7 percent does a lot to keep our pantries full.

Like Pyrrhus’ battles, the battle for farm program funding could be costly. Amer-

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

ica could lose growth in an industry that feeds, fuels and clothes us, and much of the world, and provides U.S. jobs. We would lose an important safety net for a sector of our economy that is actually growing, and the only one that has a positive trade balance.

The United Nations predicts that farmers need to produce 70 percent more food by 2050 to keep up with population increase.

That makes keeping farmers in production more important than ever. Sure, crop prices are high now, but the only constant in agriculture is volatility, something that farm programs help farmers and food consumers ride out.

Farmers know that change is in the air and are willing to do their part to cut government spending. Congress should consider changes to save money and make farm programs work better. Many ideas will be put on the table, but it is reckless to redirect funds from farmers’ tiny sliver of the pie to other areas.

With a victory like that, American food security may be finished.

Lynne Finnerty is the editor of FBNews, the American Farm Bureau Federation’s official newspaper.

LEAVE A LEGACY FOR THE FUTURE

Traditions Universal Life

insurance can help make it simple for you to: TM

v Maximize the legacy you plan to share with

loved ones or your favorite charity v Maintain control of your assets v Protect your family from the unexpected

Contact your Farm Bureau agent to learn about the tax advantages and guaranteed1 protection that Traditions Universal Life can provide.

The guarantees expressed are based on the claims paying ability of Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company.

Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company/West Des Moines, IA. Š 2011 FBL Financial Group, Inc. LI143-ID (5-11)

1

ID-Traditions(5-11).indd 1

5/16/11 8:00 AM Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011 11

Grassman Tour

The Valley / Adams County Farm Bureau sponsored a Grassman Tour on June 20 near New Meadows. Previously the University of Idaho Cooperative Extension Service sponsored a Grassman Tour each year allowing producers to see what new or innovative ideas other producers were implementing in their pastures. However, the UI tour was recently discontinued and the Valley / Adams County FB decided to revive the idea.

group toured operations run by Ed and Ruth Raney and also Dean and Sandra Dryden, who is the vice-president of Valley/Adams County FB. They focused primarily on techniques that are effective in controlling the weed crow’s foot which is the yellow flower in the pictures as well as looked at some riparian pasture management, cattle handling facilities, and discussion of irrigation and drainage in meadows.

There were about 25 people who attended this year’s event. The

Photos by Russ Hendricks

12

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

13

14

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

15

Fighting Forest Weeds

do, except accessibility can be more difficult in forested terrain.

Many weeds like this Canada thistle are difficult to recognize when they are young, or in the rosette stage.

By Randy Brooks Have you ever noticed that the first plant to invade a disturbed area seems to be a weed, usually the likes of Canada thistle?

Whether we live in the woods or on a farm, we all have disturbed areas that weeds love to invade. Like it or not, those little pests know how to take advantage of nice folks like us.

In fact, give weeds an inch, and they will end up taking a yard, farm, or forest.

Fighting weeds can be a tough job. Recognizing them, or determining whether that pretty flower is just that or a noxious weed can be difficult. Most of us couldn’t delineate a dandelion versus Yellow Starthistle when they are in the rosette stage (very young seedling).

Before I talk about methods of control, let’s talk about identification.

Idaho currently has 64 weeds on its noxious weed list, which 16

is available at http://www.

idahoag.us/Categories/Plant sI n s e c t s / Nox iou sWe e d s / watchlist.php. Those weeds

are listed in three categories: eradicate, control, or contain – but you can read about that on ISDA’s website if you want more information. For forest, range and aquatic weeds, go to http://www.cals.uidaho.edu/ weeds/fra.html. If you click on the weed of interest, you will see great photos of the weed (from rosette to mature stages), but you can also see a statewide map of the locations where the weed is found. More importantly, recommendations for chemical and biological (if available) controls are given as well. This will make the battle plan that much easier.

Since most weeds are extremely competitive with desired species (for moisture, nutrients, sunlight, etc), control is important. One of the objectives of weed control on forestland and

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

agricultural land is to reduce that competition and give seedlings a good head start. Forestland owner’s battle weeds just like agricultural producers

A mature Canada thistle plant.

Perennial weeds, defined by their life cycle, live three or more years. Though they usually produce seed, they also reproduce vegetatively. Nonwoody perennial weeds produce new top growth from

buds located on the rootstalk, or from rhizomes, bulbs, or other underground structures.

Using this method, a single perennial weed can expand to cover large areas of soil. The vigorous rhizomes of Canada thistle, for example, can spread 15 feet laterally in a single season and produce dozens of new shoots. To effectively control these types of weeds, the underground portion of the plant must be killed.

Herbicides are one of the most widely used forms of weed control in forestry and agriculture. Most weeds do not lend themselves to non-chemical control like they do to herbicides. Herbicides have several advantages over other weed control methods due to their selective nature, rapid control, and less soil disturbance. They are especially effective on tough perennial weed species such as quackgrass, bromegrass, and Canada thistle. The selection of an herbicide varies with species and growth of both the weed and tree or crop.

Problem weeds should be controlled during site preparation, as they can be more difficult to control once trees are planted, plus some herbicides are really tough on seedlings. In forested situations, once the ground is

shaded by the canopy weeds become less of a problem due to lack of sunlight.

To get the best control of perennial weeds with herbicides, the weeds have to be actively growing. This means they cannot be water stressed. In Idaho, the soil can get pretty dry during summer. Chemical control works best when the soil is moist and the plants are actively growing. In irrigated areas (lawns, pastures, farms) one of the most helpful things a landowner can do to effectively control perennial weeds is to irrigate the areas in order to get the weeds actively growing before applying herbicides. Water stressed plants take up less chemical, which means less chemical is translocated down into the root system.

For herbicides to be effective, the chemical needs to translocate down into the root system. Cooler temperatures are a signal to perennials to send most of the food produced by photosynthesis down into the root system. Creeping roots or rhizomes found on many perennial weeds serve as food storage organs, and this is what we want to kill. It is easy to kill aboveground portions of these weeds, but the difference between success and failure

Many weeds like perennial sowthistle have vigorous roots systems that make them difficult to control.

Many noxious weeds like Purple Loosestrife are mistaken for pretty flowers.

in perennial weed control is killing the plants underground parts.

The herbicide you choose must fit the situation. Clopyralid (3,6-dichloro-2-pyridinecarboxylic acid, monoethanolamine salt) is an example of a herbicide that controls numerous weeds, woody plants and vines without injuring many tree species. Some needle/leaf curl may occur if applied during active tree growth, but this effect is transient and trees should recover by the end of the growing season or early in the following growing season.

Roundup (Glyphosate) and 2,4-D offer the least crop rotation restrictions while Tordon (Picloram) has one of the longest residual effects. Residual effects simply mean the herbicide persists in the soil for longer periods of time. This is good for weed control purposes, but not so good if you want to plant trees or crops next year.

Plan to use additional weed control efforts the following year and don’t always expect to permanently control any perennial weed with a single herbicide application. The battle isn’t won overnight. Herbicides are not the only option in a weed

management plan. They can be used in combination with tillage, burning, hand pulling, etc.

Usually, a combination of practices works best.

Lastly, always read and follow all label directions when using any herbicide or pesticide. The label provides planting restrictions, best times to apply the product (herbicides work better when temperatures are cooler), which weeds will be controlled, etc. Remember, don’t give weeds an inch, or you may lose a yard!

For further information on weed identification assistance, visit your local county extension office or go to the University of Idaho Erickson Weed Diagnostics Lab website at http:// www.cals.uidaho.edu/weeds/ weedlab.html. Information is

provided on the website on how to prepare and mail a weed sample for identification.

Randy Brooks is a University of Idaho associate professor and extension educator in forestry, 4-H, and agriculture.

He can be reached at the UIClearwater County Extension Office 2200 Michigan Ave. Orofino, ID 83544 Phone: 208476-4434 FAX: 208-476-4111 E-mail: rbrooks@uidaho.edu

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

17

Planning for the 2012 Election Cycle

By Dennis Brower and Dennis Tanikuni A lot of planning, preparation and maintenance go into producing a successful crop each year. We are no different in what we are doing to plan, prepare and maintain our political program in anticipation for the 2012 election.

The 2012 election cycle will bring a number of opportunities, but many factors are at play and we are doing our best to seek out, support and elect candidates who will keep agricultural and business interests at heart. Here are some of the things we are doing and monitoring: Citizens Commission on Reapportionment Redistricting is the process of drawing new congressional and legislative districts following the results of the decennial federal census. Drawing new congressional and legislative districts every ten years ensures that each vote counts as much as the next vote, also known as equal representation.

In Idaho, these districts are drawn by a commission of six non-legislator citizens.

The commission has from June 7, 2011, until September 4, 2011, to create new legislative and congressional districts for Idaho. During that time the commission will be taking public comment on where the lines should be drawn.

Depending on the outcome of these maps, there may be significant shifts in representa18

tion, causing a domino effect on those who decide to run for Congress, the State Senate and the State House. Farm Bureau will be monitoring how the lines are drawn and what impact that may have on agriculture in Idaho.

Candidate recruitment Despite the fact that we do not know where the lines will be drawn, the Idaho Farm Bureau in partnership with county Farms Bureaus, is preparing to surface candidates that will be agfriendly if open districts occur in the redistricting process.

Campaign management seminar Speaking of candidate recruitment, have you considered running for office? There is no doubt that we could use more farmers and ranchers in elected offices across all levels of government who can help other decision makers understand the farming and ranching way of life.

Farm Bureau will be hosting a seminar later this year in Boise to help people who are considering a run for elected office to establish the skills they need to be successful on Election Day. Developed by the American Farm Bureau Federation, which utilizes input from both sides of the aisle, this two-day seminar is packed with

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

hands-on activities that boast 76 percent success rate with thousands of candidates nationwide.

primary election. Voters were given a general ballot and made their party selection in the privacy of the voting booth.

Open vs. Closed Primary Elections

In response to the court decision, the 2011 Idaho Legislature passed legislation closing all political party primary elections to members of that party.

The bill does not affect general elections.

Because of a recent federal court decision, the State of Idaho will experience its first closed primary election in 2012. Idaho formerly used an open primary system which allowed voters to vote in any political party’s

A primary election can be opened to voters who are not

affiliated with a political party and/or to members of other political parties if the chairman of the political party notifies the Secretary of State 180 days before the primary election and designates who may vote in that party’s primary election.

At this point in time there are approximately 725,000 registered, unaffiliated voters in Idaho. The 2011 legislation requires “unaffiliated” voters to declare their party preference at the polling place and prior to receiving a primary ballot for their party of preference. If no party preference is indicated, the unaffiliated voter will receive a non-partisan ballot.

Unregistered voters can indicate party preference when registering to vote. Registered voters who are not affiliated with a party can indicate their party preference by contacting the County Clerk prior to the primary election or may select a party at the polls on election day, however changing from one party to another party must be done no later than the last day on which

a candidate could file for partisan political office.

Agra-PAC The final step in preparing our program for 2012 is rebuilding and refueling our political engine. We had great success in the 2010 election by electing 86 percent of the candidates we donated to.

While the Idaho Farm Bureau and AgraPAC have been the leading voice for farmers and ranchers in the political arena for many years, preparing for 2012 and embracing the opportunities to make a difference will take all of us to keep the rural way of life that we have enjoyed in Idaho.

By pooling our resources, we can achieve great things.

Just imagine what we could accomplish if each Farm Bureau member would give at least $10 per year? We could counter the special interests that so often support candidates and issues that threaten the farming and ranching way of life and the ability

of business to prosper in Idaho.

Regardless of what level you participate in the political process, you have a stake in the outcome of the elections statewide.

Many of the elected representatives who make decisions on a daily basis that will impact the way you live your life and run your business may have little knowledge or concern about agriculture. The combined resources provided by our members through Agra-PAC will be used to help elect individuals who appreciate the contributions agriculture makes to our state economy.

Dennis Brower is the IFBF Director of Commodities and Marketing and AgraPac Coordinator. He can be reached at dbrower@idahofb.org.

Dennis Tanikuni is the IFBF Assistant Director of Government Affairs. He can be reached at dtanikuni@idahofb.org

Refer a friend, get a gift!

Announcing the program that rewards you for your referrals.

Every year, thousands of satisfied

neighbors about Farm Bureau

agent for a free, no obligation quote

customers refer their friends and

Insurance and give them a copy of

and gives your agent a completed

families to Farm Bureau Insurance.

the Rewards Program Referral Card.

card, we put your name into our

We recognize these word-of-mouth

(Cards are available from your agent.)

quarterly drawing for a $500

referrals are one of the best ways for

When your qualified referral contacts

MasterCard® Gift Card - even if your

us to grow. Now, we would like to

your agent, fills out the card for your

referrals don’t purchase a policy.

thank you for your referrals and your

agent and purchases a policy from

trust with our new Rewards Program.

Farm Bureau Insurance, we send you

Here’s how our Rewards Program

a $25 MasterCard® Gift Card. Plus,

works: Tell your friends and

for every referral who contacts your

Certain restrictions apply. Please see the Rewards Program flyer available from your local agent for complete details.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

19

Farm Bureau Members Pay 25% Less For Paint

Top Farm Bureau Agents

Good at stores nationwide

Farm Bureau discount code

9061-3888-8

Account Number

Rookie of the Month: Kerry Baxter Hart Agency

FB1000 Good at Boise, Caldwell, Eagle, Meridian, Nampa, Twin Falls, & Ontario

Farm Bureau Account Number

9061-3888-8

Good at most northwest stores

20

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

Agent of the Month: Todd Burke Schmitt Agency

Agency of the Month: Dean Schmitt Schmitt Agency

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

21

County Happenings

Idaho was represented by 19 ladies at the AFBF National Women’s Leadership Conference held April 15-19, 2011, in Baltimore, Maryland.

Front Row (l-r) Peg Pratt, Nancy Asay, Jewelee Steed, Amee Bybee, Sherril Tillotson, Allis Chandler, Jolene Vaughn, and Nancy Casperson.

Back Row: LaDean Stanley, Judi Hale, Judy Woody, Kathryn Christensen, Rhonda Barfuss, Carol Guthrie, Wendy Miller, Doris Pearson, Shirlene Schwendiman, Stacy Burmester and Jane Ann Ward.

The Minidoka County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee sponsored a school / community garden this spring at Dietrich Elementary School. The kids planted pumpkin seeds. The project was coordinated by Mindy Robertson.

22

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

What do the Idaho Farm Bureau and UI Football Coach Robb Akey have in Common? The answer is they both work with teams. Clearwater/ Lewis County Farm Bureau sponsored a dinner for area residents on May to promote Farm Bureau. The keynote speaker for the event was Robb Akey, coach of the University of Idaho Vandal Football Team. Akey gave attendees a real treat as he spoke of his past football experiences and his philosophy on team building and what constitutes a successful team. The dinner meeting was attended by about 20 people.

WASDE Report Summary Wheat: U.S. wheat supplies for 2011/12 are lowered this month as reduced carry in more than offsets an increase in expected production. Beginning stocks are lowered 30 million bushels with a 10-million-bushel reduction in imports and a 20-millionbushel increase in exports for 2010/11, both based on the pace of shipments to date. All wheat production for 2011/12 is forecast at 2,058 million bushels, 15 million higher than last month. The winter wheat production forecast is raised 26 million bushels with higher forecast yields for Hard Red Winter, Soft Red Winter, and Soft White Winter wheat.

U.S. wheat usage for 2011/12 is unchanged. Ending stocks are projected 15 million bushels lower at 687 million bushels, but remain above the 10-year average.

Global wheat supplies for 2011/12 are projected slightly lower this month as an increase in beginning stocks is more than offset by lower production. Global beginning stocks are projected 4.9 million tons higher mostly reflecting increased stocks in Russia as feeding is reduced 2.0 million tons and 5.0 million tons, respectively, for 2009/10 and 2010/11. World wheat production is projected 5.2 million tons lower for 2011/12. At 664.3 million tons, production would be the third highest on record and up 16.1 million from 2010/11.

Alton Howell is the new Bonner County Farm Bureau president replacing Jack O’Brien.  Howell says recruiting younger members is his first goal.

The county Farm Bureau is working hard to establish a solid Young Farmers and Ranchers program to help in the effort. Alton & his wife Arlene live in Careywood.

Coarse Grains: Projected U.S. feed grain supplies for 2011/12 are sharply lower with reduced prospects for corn acreage. Corn planted area for 2011/12 is lowered 1.5 million acres from March intentions to 90.7 million acres. Planting delays through early June in the eastern Corn Belt and northern Plains are expected to reduce planted area, more than offsetting likely gains in the western Corn Belt and central Plains where planting was ahead of normal by mid-May. Harvested area is lowered 1.9 million acres, to 83.2 million with the additional 400,000-acre reduction reflecting early information about May flooding in the lower Ohio and Mississippi River valleys and June flooding along the Missouri River Valley. Production is projected at 13.2 billion bushels, down 305 million from last month, but still a record, and up 753 million from 2010/11.U.S. feed grain usage changes for 2011/12 include a 100-million-bushel projected decline in corn feed and residual use and a 5-million-bushel increase in sorghum exports. Feed grain ending stocks are sharply lower with expected corn ending stocks down 205 million bushels to 695 million. Corn ending stocks are projected 35 million bushels lower than beginning stocks indicating a stocks-to-use ratio of 5.2 percent compared with the 2010/11 forecast ratio of 5.4 percent.

Global coarse grain supplies for 2011/12 are projected down 7.8 million tons this month with lower beginning stocks and production. Reduced U.S. corn production, lower EU-27 barley production, and reduced corn beginning stocks in China, more than offset increases in China Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

23

American Farm Bureau Picks 6th Leader Class The American Farm Bureau Federation has selected a group of 10 young agricultural leaders to participate in the sixth class of the Partners in Agricultural Leadership honors program.

Selected to participate in the 2011 program are: Rachel Bina, North Dakota; Jonathan Cavin, Virginia; Travis Gebhart, South Dakota; Megan Gravois, Louisiana; Heather Hill, Indiana; Theresa Lawton, Massachusetts; Hilary Maricle, Nebraska; Jason Rodgers, South Carolina; Malissa Fritz Schentzel, Minnesota; and Misty Wall, Utah.

Farm Bureau’s PAL program is carried out with support from the Monsanto Company, Farm Credit and AFBF. It is designed to strengthen participants’ leadership skills and put their abilities to work for the benefit of agriculture.

“We’re pleased to announce the members of the sixth PAL class and we look forward

to the contributions they will make as individuals and collectively to strengthen American agriculture and tell the farmer’s story,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman.

“Each of the previous PAL classes has been an outstanding success. Thanks to continued partnerships with Monsanto and the Farm Credit Foundation, we are confident this class also will prove to be a stellar experience for participants.”

The PAL program provides young farmers and ranchers with the opportunity to hone their leadership skills after they have served as AFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee members/officers or participated in competitive YF&R events.

“Another benefit of this program is that it often serves as a bridge between YF&R and other agricultural leadership roles,” Stallman said.

By participating in PAL, the young leaders will enrich their skills in problem solving, persuasion and consensus building. At the

same time, they will be deepening their knowledge of specific agricultural and public policy issues.

Upon completion of the PAL program, participants will be fully equipped to represent agriculture in the media, on speaking circuits or in legislative activities. PAL graduates serve as “advocates for agriculture,” telling the farmer’s story and promoting awareness on issues important to those in the farm-to-consumer food chain.

State Farm Bureaus nominate applicants for the PAL program. Applicants must be “Sweet 16” finalists in the national YF&R Discussion Meet; top 10 finalists in the YF&R Achievement Award or Excellence in Agriculture Award competitions; former members of the AFBF YF&R committee or former state YF&R committee chairs.

Visit http://www.fb.org/index. php?action=programs.yfr.pal for more information on the PAL program.

Farm Bureau Members Pay Less For Choice Hotels!

A $40 room will be closer to

$32 A $60 room will be closer to

$48 A $90 room will be closer to

Farm Bureau Discount Code

$72 24

1.800.258.2847

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

00800286

advanced reservations required

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

25

Cattle Market looks Bullish

By Jake Putnam

A just-released United States Department of Agriculture report has ranchers rejoicing.

“Yes, everyone’s happy as long as we can keep the input prices down,” said Wyatt Prescott of the Idaho Cattle Association.

Cattle prices are up while supply is down.

But the best part of the report says that consumer demand remains steady despite high prices.

According to the USDA retail prices have surged because of the diminishing cattle supply and increasing feed costs. The report shows that 11 percent fewer cattle have moved from the range to feedlots this spring. The smaller number of feeders cattle reflects fewer calves and smaller herds as ranchers tighten their operations because of higher corn prices.

“The cost of grain is astronomical along with high feed prices and specifically 26

high corn prices,” said Prescott. “It’s a challenge for feeders to break even with the current input costs. I’m talking about the price of fuel, our ranchers are struggling with $4 plus diesel prices and they could go up again in the fall.”

Overall, the USDA says meat prices are running 12 percent higher than a year ago, that’s up from their March 25 forecast for a 4.5 percent to 5.5 percent increase. Pork prices, which gained more than other meats last year, will be a half-percentage point higher, rising from 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent over 2010.

The USDA says its food-at-home inflation forecast is unchanged from the March report which calls for grocery-store prices to run 3.5 percent to 4.5 percent more than a year ago.

Kevin Penner of Ag Trader Talk in Des Moines says they started seeing strong market prices before the 4th of July rush and prices have stayed strong, surprising

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

market analysts who worried those high prices and a shaky economy could scare off grocery store consumers, but so far that hasn’t happened.

According to the USDA, a “thrifty” family of four spent an average of $612.70 on food prepared at home, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That’s an increase of 4.6 percent over last year.

But the “thrifty” family’s monthly grocery bill pales compared to the $1,209.20 spent last month by families on a “liberal” budget, the USDA says. That’s an increase of 4.4 percent from 2010.

And the USDA says households will continue to pay more for groceries this year because of rising energy and agricultural prices and increased demand for food around the world.

Idaho is capitalizing on the trend, exporting more beef than previous years while demand continues out-pace supply.

Five Questions with Rancher Chris Dalley

By Jake Putnam

Star Valley, Nevada—The cell phone reception was scratchy, iffy at best. In one of the most remote areas in the lower 48-states, Rancher Chris Dalley was driving cattle near Star Valley, Nevada when he took our call. The young rancher was buoyed by the latest report from the USDA: 11-percent fewer cattle than last year and prices soaring 12-percent above 2010 levels; the highest prices in the past five years.

What’s your reaction to the USDA report?

“Our exports are up and we’re up 60 percent from a year ago. Those are huge numbers and right now we have a competitive advantage, we have the best beef in the world and with the economic status of the dollar, its relatively low, American beef is a good buy on the world market,” said Prescott.

Dennis Smith of Archer Financial Services in Chicago says the U.S. saw a 70 percent increase in beef exports for the week ending June 9, and that trend is not showing any signs of slowing down.

“Does the concept of peaking supplies and strong demand ring any bells?” Smith wrote in his weekly blog report.

Prices for feeder cattle, those younger animals taken from grazing for final fattening to 1,300-pound weights, rose the limit $3 per hundredweight this month and another $2.68 per hundredweight to reach $132.65.

Live cattle, those ready for slaughter, similarly gained $3 per hundredweight earlier this month and another $2.55 to reach $109.75.

The market prices have allowed Idaho ranchers to get caught up, after five tough years to re-build and position themselves for a period of decent market prices.

“We’re seeing interesting indicators; producers are trending toward retaining more and replacing herds at a higher rate than other states. Nationwide we still have a challenge on re-tooling the cow herd because of the southern drought, Midwest plains and across Texas. I saw a report today that it could take at least four years to rebuild those herds down that were diminished from the drought,” said Prescott.

Prescott adds that thanks to great feed in the State of Idaho and good moisture, ranchers can expect to see a higher herd retention rate this year than in at least a decade.

“There are fewer cattle, and that’s good. During high prices ranchers don’t keep as many cattle; they’re heavier and they don’t use their heifers because they’re worth so much money. So they’re not building herds as fast. Also some of the older ranchers are getting closer to retirement age, they’ve seen times like this, they see a thousand bucks per cow and with a couple hundred cows that’s a pretty good chunk of money for them.”

Will this be a good payday for you when you take cows to market?

It’s all relative, I mean you start figuring $220 a ton hay, and $4.25 diesel, $9-dollar corn, it hasn’t ever been this high. We need a $1.60 just to keep going. With inflation, my grandpa used to tell a story that he would trade off a pickup every three years. He said he’d take seven steer calves, take the used pickup and buy a brand new truck off the lot. Well, seven steer calves today won’t buy a used car. So this is good news, but we are just catching up with inflation, not beating it. Hopefully we will do well this year but we need good prices with high feed costs and fuel, we need the market to be like this.

The market is good, not great with all things considered?

For sure, our input costs have gone up a bunch. This is news because of the low supply of cattle. Consider this: The one good thing about cattle is that you cannot mass-produce them in six months. To rebuild the nation’s cattle supply it will take 5-6 years.

To survive 2008 ranchers had to cut back to survive, are they still running lean operations?

Yes, and my plan is to keep more heifers back and build a younger herd, so when this deal gets back to normal my cows will be three and fouryear-olds.

With record rainfall this year, how’s the feed on the range this year?

We have never seen grass like this on the range. We’re driving them from a field right now and you can’t even tell we’ve had cattle here.

We’ve been in this field since the first of April. Lots of tall grass on the range, and there will be lots of feed this year.

Dalley reports that it’s still green on the range, and that they haven’t seen many ticks or rattle snakes this year, another sign of a long wet spring and a slow start to summer.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

27

Grain Marketing with Clark Johnston

Preparing for the Unseen perienced this year prices could very well be strong. Merchandising this year won’t be a layup by any stretch of the imagination.

Clark Johnston

Whether it’s growing a crop or merchandizing the crop it seems that it’s the unforeseen changes that either help or hinder our success. Let’s take a look at just some of the factors that at times have unforeseen changes that move the markets. Weather, currency values, speculators, fundamentals just to name a few.

We all know just what has happened this spring with the adverse weather conditions across the country. When we look at the country as a whole we see anything that could have happened did happen. For the most part it was either too wet or too dry.

Other parts of the world are experiencing somewhat better conditions than we have and are looking at average to better than average crops. Last year it was our turn for good production and this year it’s theirs.

For now it does look as though prices have the potential to remain at levels for producers to at least have the opportunity to merchandise grain at a profit for the 2011/12 crop year. This doesn’t necessarily mean that prices will be good for the entire year just that during the year just as we have ex28

Let’s take corn and see if it will once again be the King with all other grains following its lead. We have already reduced the acreage down to where USDA is projecting a crop of 13.2 billion bushels. This would still be a large crop but will leave us with a stock to use ratio at the end of the year near 5 percent. There is still some uncertainty as to just how many acres have or will be lost to flooding. The next big event for the corn crop is upon us now in pollination. If the weather doesn’t cooperate we could be in a situation where total production could be reduced by 83 million bushels for every bushel in reduced yield. By themselves the fundamental factors are giving the edge to prices remaining steady to better.

There isn’t any evidence that the Funds will be any less of a player in the markets this year than in any past year. If will be important this year to follow their trading strategies as to how long or just how many contracts they own when making your merchandising decisions. Their position in the market is a large factor when it pertains to you managing your price risk in the market. Remember the correction in the futures market towards the middle of June? During this correction in the futures, the July corn contract moved 86 cents per bushel lower in just 4 trading days while the funds were liquidating or selling approximately 60,000 contracts or 300 million bushels of corn on paper. During this same time frame Chicago July wheat followed corn trading 86 cents per bushel lower.

As you implement your merchandising program for this upcoming year it could be wise to follow the Funds just to keep in mind just what they will be trying to accomplish in the market. The value of the

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

dollar will help you keep track of the possibility for export business and of course the actual production of corn and wheat this year. This may seem like a lot to keep track of but, it is essential in making your decisions. Remember your decisions should be based on knowledge rather than emotion.

In months past we have discussed watching the momentum studies. This is still a good indicator and helpful in your planning.

This year will be a good year for basis to strengthen as it looks as though we will be short of milling quality wheat in both red spring and hard red winter classes. The basis for the most part is our indicator of the local supply/demand. Take time to begin tracking the local basis once a week. This year you could be surprised as to just how far it may move.

Clark Johnston is a grain marketing specialist who is on contract with the Idaho Farm Bureau. He is the owner of JC Management Company in Northern Utah. He can be reached at clark@jcmanagement. net

Exclusively For Farm Bureau Members Members can pick up discounted tickets from one of the following Farm Bureau county offices: Boise - Nampa - Caldwell - Meridian - Coeur d’Alene - Post Falls - Idaho Falls - Pocatello Regular Price For Evening Show (Ages 12-59)

Farm Bureau Price

Regular Price For Evening Show (Ages 12-64)

Farm Bureau Price

$10

$7.50

Regal Riverstone Stadium 14 Coeur D’Alene

$9

$7.50

Some restrictions apply. Contact a Farm Bureau county office listed above for details. Prices subject to change.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

29

11th Harvesting Clean Energy Conference Slated The 2011 Harvesting Clean Energy conference will provide a bounty of practical information and access to experts across the full range of rural energy opportunities – from wind power, to solar and geothermal, small hydro, biofuels and biopower, food processing innovation, and efficiency technologies that cut energy costs and enhance profitability.

Now in its 11th year, this Northwest-focused energy event comes to Boise Centre on October 23-25, 2011. Previous conferences have brought together over 500 participants to explore the intersections of agriculture, rural development and clean energy.

30

For complete information on registration, sponsorship and exhibitor space go to www.harvestcleanenergy.org or contact Dana Colwell at Dana.Colwell@wsu. edu , 253-445-4575.

Clean power, jobs, economic development, energy efficiency are on our minds, in the news. How do you create opportunity from these evolving opportunities and make harvesting clean energy pencil out for you?

In-depth discussions will dig into the key steps to successful projects, from economic assessment, to accessing technical support and securing financing amidst

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

tough finance markets. The conference also explores the bigger forces shaping trends in energy technologies and markets, and shares strategies to maximize job creation and economic benefits from developing our local resources. We’ll also feature clean energy tours on Sunday so you can get an up-close look at on-the-ground projects in action and talk to the people who made them happen.

Be part of the discussion and part of the solution. Come join the Harvest Clean Energy conference in Boise Idaho on October 23-25, 2011. Registration details at www. harvestcleanenergy.org

2011-2012 Idaho Hay and Forage Directory Idaho Hay and Forage producers are invited to place their name and production information for hay and forage in the 2011-2012 edition of the Idaho Hay and Forage Directory.

Rick Waitley, Executive Director for the Hay and Forage Association stated, “The directory will be mailed to dairymen, cattle producers, those involved in the horse and sheep industry, and will be distributed through County Extension offices in Idaho – we plan to produce nearly 3500 copies for distribution.”

The Idaho Hay and Forage Directory is divided into four regions of Idaho and allows those buying and selling hay to

have a quick and easy method of identifying producers who have various sizes of hay bales as well as types of hay – weed free, organic, etc. The directory also lists several suppliers and services related to the hay and forage industry.

To receive information about how to be listed in the Idaho Hay and Forage Directory or to be listed as a member of the Idaho Hay and Forage Association, please contact the Association office at 208-888-0988 or email rick@amgidaho. com. Additional information about the Association can be found at their website at www.idahohay.com.

Stallman

Continued from page 2

thriving farmland will likely turn into economic wastelands. Gone is production agriculture, as well as the tax base for those rural communities.

While we work through this temporary crisis, it’s also important that we keep the rivers dredged and navigable for traffic to move up and down the channels. Farmers far and wide are affected by current navigation restrictions and the resulting backup of farm products.

The Wild Card On the other end of the spectrum, drought is taking its toll on many states. In Texas alone, my home state, ranchers are facing astronomical losses of more than $1.2 billion due to crop losses, increased feeding costs and lack of forage. Oklahoma, Kansas and others are also feeling the frustration of drought.

American Farm Bureau economists expect the size of the national cow herd to shrink

as ranchers are forced to sell animals they can no longer feed. Wheat and corn farmers are in trouble, too. The hard red winter wheat crop has particularly been hit hard and our economists are expecting a loss in the nation’s corn crop because of the drought.

It’s important that we keep our chins up and start a new day. We farmers and ranchers can’t change the weather but we can determine our future. Many just need the opportunity to play with a fresh deck.

Priestley

Continued from page 2

Employment of those who are in the U.S. illegally is a violation of federal law and consequences for employers can be severe.

Effective reform must begin at the border, with greater efforts to prevent the entry of illegal non-residents. While employing illegal non-residents is a violation of law, determining the legal status of prospective employees can be difficult, if not impossible, for growers. An employer is strictly limited in what he or she may ask of prospective employees to determine if they are authorized to work. If the employer requests more or different documents than allowed by law, or more than the original documents provided by a prospective employee, then the employer could be subject

to a Department of Justice investigation or a lawsuit for unlawful discrimination.

When no domestic workers can be found to work on farms and ranches, agricultural employers may recruit and hire temporary foreign workers under the H-2A temporary agricultural worker program. But the H-2A program is bureaucratic, expensive, does not cover all parts of agriculture and does little to encourage grower participation. It requires employers to provide free housing and transportation from a worker’s home country and to pay a base wage rate that is historically well above market levels, making it expensive. The program properly requires employers first to recruit domestic

workers before bringing in foreign guest workers, but it unreasonably favors domestic workers even after the H-2A workers arrive and begin to work.

Reform of U.S. Immigration Law is Essential for U.S. Agriculture. Farm Bureau has supported comprehensive immigration reform legislation and endorsed bills that came to the floor of the U.S. Senate in 2006 and 2007. In the end, only reform through legislation can solve this problem.

In seeking a meaningful legislative solution to agriculture’s worker shortage, Farm Bureau believes that comprehensive immigration reform must include an effective, usable, foreign worker program.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

31

Idaho Winter Wheat Production

Idaho’s 2011 winter wheat production is forecast at 62.4 million bushels, unchanged from last month’s forecast, and 7 percent above last year’s crop, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service.

This report is based on conditions as of June 1. The yield is forecasted to be 79 bushels per acre, unchanged from last month. Acres to be harvested, at 790,000, represent an 80,000 acre increase from 2010.

Idaho hops strung for harvest in 2011 totaled 2,288 acres, down 2 percent from last year’s harvested area of 2,331 acres.

Idaho Potato Stocks

Potato stocks held by growers, dealers, and processors in Idaho on June 1 totaled 19.0 million cwt, 6.5 million cwt less than on hand June 1, 2010. This is the lowest June 1 stocks level since 2006. Disappearance, at 95.4 million cwt is down from last year’s 107.0 million cwt. Stocks in the 10 Southwest counties totaled 700,000 cwt, down from last year’s 1.50 million cwt. The Other counties’ stocks, at 18.3 million cwt, were down from the 24.0 million cwt stored on June 1, 2010. Processors in Idaho and Malheur County, Oregon used 6.57 million cwt of 2010 crop raw potatoes during May, down 3.8 percent from May 2010. Processors in Idaho and Malheur County, Oregon 32

have used 59.4 million cwt of 2010 crop raw potatoes to June 1, down 5.7 percent from last year. Idaho potatoes accounted for 51.8 million cwt of the total processed. The remaining 7.52 million cwt were produced in other states.

Nationally, the 13 major potato States held 35.5 million cwt of potatoes in storage June 1, 2011, down 36 percent from a year ago. Potatoes in storage accounted for 10 percent of the 2010 fall storage States’ production, four percentage points below June 1, 2010. Potato disappearance, at 316 million cwt, was 4 percent below June 1, 2010. Season-to-date shrink and loss, at 23.3 million cwt, was down 18 percent from the same date in 2010. Processors in the 9 major States have used 161 million cwt of potatoes this season, up 1 percent from the same period last year.

Dehydrating usage accounted for 25.8 million cwt of the total processing, down 14 percent from last year.

Idaho May Red Meat Production

Commercial red meat production at Idaho packing plants for May 2011 totaled 13.9 million pounds, down 12 percent from May of last year, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Accumulated red meat production for the January-May 2011 period totaled 69.8 million pounds, down 16

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

percent from the comparable period a year earlier.

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 3.91 billion pounds in May, up 5 percent from the 3.73 billion pounds produced in May 2010. Beef production, at 2.13 billion pounds, was 2 percent above the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.82 million head, up 1 percent from May 2010. The average live weight was up 3 pounds from the previous year, at 1,253 pounds. Veal production totaled 10.3 million pounds, 2 percent above May a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 61,100 head, up 1 percent from May 2010. The average live weight was up 2 pounds from last year, at 288 pounds. Pork production totaled 1.76 billion pounds, up 9 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 8.54 million head, up 7 percent from May 2010. The average live weight was up 3 pounds from the previous year, at 275 pounds. Lamb and mutton production, at 12.9 million pounds, was up 2 percent from May 2010. Sheep slaughter totaled 179,400 head, 2 percent below last year. The average live weight was 143 pounds, up 4 pounds from May a year ago. January to May 2011 commercial red meat production was 20.0 billion pounds, up 2 percent from 2010. Accumulated beef production was up 1 percent from last year, veal was down 3 percent, pork was up 2 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production

was down 7 percent.

Idaho Sweet Cherry Production Forecasted at 3,800 Tons

Idaho is expecting a sweet cherry crop of 3,800 tons in 2011, up 100 percent from last year but down 37 percent from 2009, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Idaho growers are expecting the sweet cherry production to rebound significantly from last year’s freeze damaged crop.

Livestock Risk Protection Program Available in the Pacific Northwest

The Risk Management Agency’s (RMA) Spokane Regional Office would like to remind Pacific Northwest livestock producers that the Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) program is available in all counties in Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

LRP insurance plans include Fed Cattle, Feeder Cattle, Lamb and Swine.

LRP coverage protects the policyholder from downward price risk during the insurance period. It does not cover any other peril (e.g., mortality, condemnation, physical damage, disease, individual marketing decisions, local price deviations or any other cause of loss).

There are two steps to buy LRP

coverage: 1) producers must submit an application. Once the application is approved, the livestock crop insurance provider will assign a policy number; and 2) the producer activates coverage at any time by applying for a Specific Coverage Endorsement (SCE). No insurance coverage is provided until the producer submits an SCE. Insurance will attach immediately when RMA confirms the SCE has been accepted.

Premiums are due on the day an LRP insurance endorsement is purchased and includes a 13-percent subsidy on the premium from RMA. To determine a premium, an insured producer will select the appropriate insurance period covering the expected sell or slaughter date; choose a coverage price based on the chosen coverage period; provide the number of livestock expected to be ready for sale or slaughter at the end date and the target weight at time of slaughter; and the percentage share of ownership in livestock to be insured.

Sales for the 2012 crop year will begin July 1, 2011 and continue through June 30, 2012; or until the maximum underwriting capacity as established by the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation is reached. Cattle, swine and lamb producers are encouraged to contact a local livestock insurance agent to learn additional details. Federal crop insurance program policies are sold and delivered solely through private crop and livestock insurance companies. A list of livestock crop insurance agents is available at all USDA Service Centers throughout the U.S. or at the RMA Web site address: http://www3.rma. usda.gov/tools/agents

Notice to Hispanic And/Or Women Farmers Or Ranchers

If you are a woman or Hispanic farmer and believe you were improperly denied farm loan benefits by USDA between 1981 and 2000. You may be eligible for compensation. To register your name to receive a claims packet, call the Farmer and Rancher Call Center at 1-888-508-4429 or visit: www. farmerclaims.gov

Aviso A Agricultores O Ganaderos Hispanos Y A Mujeres Agricultoras O Ganaderas

Si usted considera que el Departamento de Agricultura de Estados Unidos (USDA por sus siglas en inglés) le negó indebidamente beneficios de préstamos agrícolas entre los años 1981 y 2000 por ser hispano o mujer, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para solicitar compensación.

Si desea inscribirse para recibir los documentos para reclamación, puede llamar al Centro de Llamadas para Agricultores y Ganaderos al 1-888-508-4429 o ingresar a la página web: www.farmerclaims.gov.

Farmers Double Corn Production Using Less Fertilizer

The Fertilizer Institute announced recently that between 1980 and 2010, U.S. farmers nearly doubled corn production using slightly fewer fertilizer nutrients than were used in 1980. The announcement is

based on fertilizer application rate data released last week by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Specifically, in 1980, farmers grew 6.64 billion bushels of corn using 3.9 pounds of nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) for each bushel and in 2010 they grew 12.45 billion bushels using 1.6 pounds of nutrients per bushel produced.

In total, this represents an 87.5 percent increase in production with 4 percent fewer nutrients during that same timeframe.

Corn production accounts for half of U.S. fertilizer use and experts estimate that 40 percent to 60 percent of world food production is attributable to fertilizers.

USDA Unveils MyPlate Icon

USDA has unveiled the new food guidance icon, MyPlate, which replaces the food pyramid. The MyPlate icon emphasizes food groups such as fruit, vegetables, grains and dairy in addition to protein. With the intent of getting consumers to think about building a healthy plate at meal time, the MyPlate icon will serve as a reminder to make healthier food choices.

“The new icon is simple and easy to understand, with more emphasis placed on fruits and vegetables,” said Surgeon General Regina Benjamin. “This new tool can be a fun way to help individuals and families make healthier meal choices.”

Briefs continued on page 34 FARM BUREAU MEMBERS Actual Savings of

20-25%

Enjoy Life’s Special Moments Again...

Don’t Let Hearing Loss get in the Way! Is Hearing Loss

Affecting Your Life?

Do you often ask people to repeat themselves?

 YES  NO

Do you have a problem understanding  YES  NO speech while you are in crowds?

Do people seem to mumble or speak in a softer voice than they used to?

 YES  NO

Farm Bureau Members guaranteed Free pre-approval Professional Audiologists & Specialists Statewide Free Hearing Aid Assessment Discounts on Hearing Instruments 60 Day Trial / 100% Guaranteed Custom Fit 1 Year FREE Supply of Batteries (1 case per instrument) Your Hearing is your most important sense for Communication and Quality of Life. The ClearValue Hearing program is the most comprehensive program available.

Activate your FREE Membership TODAY!

(888)497-7447 toll free

www.clearvaluehearing.com Hearing Healthcare Benefits Plan

*Activation mandatory for enrollment, scheduling and listed discounts and services.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

33

Along with the MyPlate icon, USDA has launched a new website, ChooseMyPlate.gov.

The website provides practical information to individuals, educators, health professionals and the food industry to help consumers build healthier diets. Later this year, USDA will unveil an online tool that allows consumers to personalize and manage their dietary and physical activity choices.

USDA Releases Plan to Promote Agroforestry

Deputy Agriculture Secretary Kathleen Merrigan unveiled a plan that will help farmers, ranchers and woodland owners enhance productivity, profitability and environmental stewardship by using the practice of agroforestry.

Agroforestry intentionally combines agriculture and forestry to create integrated and sustainable land-use systems that take advantage of the interactive benefits from combining trees and shrubs with crops or livestock.

Merrigan unveiled the USDA Agroforestry Strategic Framework during the North American Agroforestry Conference, in Athens, Ga. The framework is the USDA guide to advance agroforestry knowledge, practices and assistance that lay the roadmap to influence the long-term health and sustainability of all lands for future generations.

USDA Allocates Funds for Projects Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced recently the 34

Agriculture Department is allocating $50 million, provided as part of the 2008 farm bill, for projects that prevent the introduction or spread of plant pests and diseases that threaten U.S. agriculture and the environment.

“USDA is continuing its partnership with states, industry and other interested groups under the 2008 farm bill to prevent the entry of invasive plant pests and diseases, quickly detect those that may slip in and enhance our emergency response capabilities,” said Vilsack. “I am pleased with the wide range and record number of project suggestions. They will provide strong protection to America’s agricultural and environmental resources, and many will help nursery and specialty crop growers to flourish as the economy continues to recover.”

SURE to Run Out of Funds

The Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payment program (SURE), which was created under the 2008 farm bill to compensate farmers for crop losses not covered by insurance, will soon run out of funds. Before the program was put in place, farmers had to wait for Congress to dispense ad hoc disaster aid, which was often criticized for its slow and uneven payments.

The SURE program is estimated to run out of funds in September, and as lawmakers attempt to curb spending to address the national debt, support on Capitol Hill for continuing the program is minimal at best.

Several farm groups are in fa-

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

vor of letting SURE die, rather than taking money from other farm programs to overhaul it. There have also been complaints about payment delays, as well as how difficult the program is to use. SURE supporters, however, claim it is a necessary program that has provided more than $2.4 billion in aid to farmers and ranchers.

American Century Farms the Focus of New, Interactive Site

The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture launched a new, interactive website that invites the general public to celebrate the contribution of century farms to the heritage of our nation. Century farms are those farms that have been in operation under the same family for more than 100 years. Appropriately named “Agriculture’s Lasting Heritage,” this website tells the story of American farm and ranch families who have shaped the history of our nation.

“Farms and ranches that have been in the same family, and supporting family members and local communities for generations stand as testament to the true sustainable character of American agriculture today,” AFBF President Bob Stallman said. “Farmers and ranchers, by nature, are always committed to leaving the land in better condition for the next generation. We are proud to help raise awareness of that through this new website.”

On the website, http://www. agricultureslastingheritage. org/, parents, teachers and volunteer educators can enjoy the free educational resources that

support continued learning.

Lesson plans that intricately combine American History standards with the progression of the agriculture industry are provided complete with all required resources.

EPA Proposes 2012 Renewable Fuel Standard Percentages

EPA recently proposed the 2012 percentage standards for four fuel categories that are part of the agency’s Renewable Fuel Standard program (RFS2).

The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 established the annual renewable fuel volume targets, which steadily increase to an overall level of 36 billion gallons in 2022. To achieve these volumes, EPA calculates a percentage-based standard for each year. Based on the standard, each refiner, importer and non-oxygenate blender of gasoline or diesel determines the minimum volume of renewable fuel that it must ensure is used in its transportation fuel.

Based on analysis of market availability, EPA is proposing a 2012 cellulosic ethanol volume that is lower than the EISA target for 2012 of 500 million gallons. EPA will continue to evaluate the market as it works to finalize the cellulosic standard in the coming months. The agency remains optimistic that the commercial availability of cellulosic biofuel will continue to grow in the years ahead.

Comments on the EPA proposal are due by Aug. 11. AFBF supports RFS2 and will submit comments.

Cattle Outlook June 24, 2011 Fed cattle prices were higher for the second week in a row. The 5-area daily weighted average price for slaughter steers sold through Thursday of this week on a live weight basis was $112.17/cwt, up $2.86 from last week. Steers sold on a dressed weight basis this week averaged $178.86/cwt, $1.28 higher than the week before.

For the second week in a row, boxed beef prices ended the week higher. Friday morning the choice boxed beef carcass cutout value was $178.93/cwt, up $6.01 from last week. The select carcass cutout was up $5.39 from the previous Friday to $173.83 per hundred pounds of carcass weight.

This week’s cattle slaughter totaled 684,000 head, down 0.6% from the week before, but up 2.4% compared to the same week last year.The average steer dressed weight for the week ending June 11 was 829 pounds, up 2 pound from the week before and 11 pounds heavier than for the same week in 2010. Steer weights have been above year-ago levels for 27 consecutive weeks.

Cash bids for feeder cattle around the country this week were mostly steady to $6 higher than last week. Oklahoma City prices this week were $6 to $10 higher with price ranges for medium and large frame #1 steers: 400-450# $153-$159, 450500# $139-$151.50, 500-550# $132-$144.50, 550-600# $131.25-$141.50, 600-650#

$129-$139, 650-700# $123.50-$139.50, 700-750# $126.25-$140, 750-800# $120$138.85, 800-900# $126.25-$135.50 and 900-1000# $121-$125/cwt.

The June fed cattle futures contract ended the week at $113.05/cwt, up $3.30 from last week’s close.August ended the week at $113.50/cwt, also up $3.30.The October contract closed at $119.75, up $3.63 for the week. December settled at $122.70.

Corn futures prices declined this week with the July contract loosing 30 cents to settle at $6.70 per bushel on Friday.

USDA’s June cattle on feed report said placements during May were down 10.8% compared to a year ago. That is the largest percentage drop of any month since May 2009. Each weight category had fewer head placed than last May. May marketings from large feed yards were up 7.3%, mostly due to one extra slaughter day.The number of cattle on feed at the start of June was up 4.1% compared to the same day last year. This is the closest on-feed numbers have been to last year since December.

From University of Missouri

Presents The 16th Annual Tour Hosted by: Gary & Sandy Fuhriman

Hawaiian Island Cruise December 31, 2011- January 7, 2012 Join us onboard the Norwegian Pride of America for an exciting cruise around Hawaii. This unique 7-day itinerary will overnight in Maui and Kauai as well as visit the islands of Oahu and the Big Island of Hawaii. With this agenda we will have nearly 100 hours in port to discover waterfalls, active volcanoes, black, green, and white sand beaches, historic sites and unspoiled nature.

This cruise will take place the week prior to the American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting that will be held in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 8-10, 2012.

For more information and to register for this exciting cruise, call:

Gary Fuhriman - (208) 241-0243 Launa Walquist - (208) 232-4812

Space is limited with rates starting at: Inside $1,808.00 Obstructed Oceanview $1,769.00 Balcony (BF Category) $2,319.00 Balcony (BC Category) $2,379.00 Balcony (BB Category) $2,399.00 Balcony (BA Category) $2,419.00 All rates are per person double occupancy and include: cruise fare, port charges, government taxes and Hawaii Taxes.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

35

FARM BUREAU COMMODITY REPORT GRAIN PRICES

Portland:

White Wheat 11% Winter 14% Spring Corn

Ogden:

White Wheat 11% Winter 14% Spring Barley

Pocatello:

Farm Bureau members pay 20% less off of “Best Available Rate”.

White Wheat 11% Winter 14% Spring Barley

Burley:

White Wheat 11% Winter 14% Spring Barley

Nampa:

White Wheat (cwt) (Bushel)

Lewiston:

White Wheat Barley

6.70 7.43-7.64 10.53 286.75-288.50

-

1.35 1.64 to – 1.53 1.89 16.50 to - 15.25

8.00 7.90 10.97 12.00

6.60 6.34 9.48 11.75

-

1.40 1.56 1.49 .25

7.90 7.69 11.51 11.56

6.00 5.96 9.56 11.35

-

1.90 1.73 1.95 .21

7.55 7.75 10.70 11.50

6.20 6.06 9.36 11.25

-

1.35 1.69 1.34 .25

11.61 6.97

9.58 5.75

- 2.03 - 1.22

7.75 211.50

6.40 216.50

- 1.35 + 5.00

5/23/2011

Under 500 lbs 500-700 lbs 700-900 lbs Over 900 lbs

Holstein Steers Under 700 lbs Over 700 lbs

Cows

Utility/Commercial Canner & Cutter

Stock Cows

For Super 8 call 800-889-9706

8.05 9.07-9.17 12.42 303.25-303.75

Feeder Steers

Under 500 lbs 500-700 lbs 700-900 lbs Over 900 lbs

Call Toll-Free: 877-670-7088

6/28/2011

Bulls

Slaughter

BEAN PRICES: Pinto Pink Small Red

6/27/2011

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

Trend

125-176 114-151 93-139 90-110

125-161 112-152 102-140 95-108

Steady to – 15 - 2 to + 1 + 9 to + 1 + 5 to – 2

112-156 97-149 88-122 98-105

115-153 91-136 82-121 82-105

+ 3 to – 3 - 6 to – 13 - 6 to – 1 - 16 to steady

70-116 65-97

65-115 65-95

- 5 to – 1 steady to – 2

52-83 46-76

52-83 40-72

Steady - 6 to – 4

850-1500

850-1500

Steady

60-100

60-95

Steady to - 5

30.00 30.00-32.00 N/A

30.00 30.00-32.00 N/A

Steady Steady N/A

Compiled by the Idaho Farm Bureau Commodity Division 36

Trend

LIVESTOCK PRICES

Feeder Heifers

Farm Bureau Discount ID# 61810

5/24/2011

IDaho Hay Report June 24, 2011 Compared to last week, all grades of Alfalfa steady. Trade moderate to active as short bought dairies and now having to secure inventories. Demand very good for light supplies. Retail/feed store/horse not tested this week. Buyer demand good with light supplies.

Tons Price Delivered prices Alfalfa Large Square Utility 3,500 135.00-135.00

Wtd Avg 135.00 Rain Damage

FOB prices Alfalfa Large Square Supreme 8,100 220.00-240.00 236.91 Premium 620 220.00-225.00 220.97 Good/Premium 3,000 195.00-195.00 195.00 Rain Damage Fair/Good 250 180.00-180.00 180.00 Utility/Fair 2,500 160.00-160.00 160.00 Rain Damage 50 180.00-180.00 180.00 Weedy Oat Large Square Premium 600 127.00-127.00 127.00 Picked Up

Out of the Field

POTATOES FOR PROCESSING June 21, 2011 IDAHO---Open-market trading by processors with growers was fairly slow. Open-market prices paid to growers for Russet Burbank potatoes, Storage-run , bulk, per cwt, less dirt, rot and green tare, F.O.B. growers storage unless otherwise stated: French-Fry quality $12.50-13.00.

5 Year Grain Comparison Grain Prices................06/20/2007...................06/24/2008.................. 06/23/2009................. 06/23/2010..................06/28/2011 Portland: White Wheat.....................6.08................................N/A................................5.75 ............................4.53.............................. 6.70 11% Winter...................6.26-6.30............................N/A............................6.15-6.30 ....................... N/A........................... 7.43-7.64 14% Spring........................ 6.59..............................10.91...............................7.78 ............................6.57............................. 10.53 Barley (ton)..................160-167.00...........................N/A.................................N/A............................... N/A................................N/A Corn...............................181-181.75....................293-296.25........................171.75.......................161-161.25.................286.75-288.50 Ogden: White Wheat......................5.12................................ 7.70 .............................4.64 ............................4.00............................. 6.60 11% Winter....................... 5.36...............................8.77 ..............................5.28 ............................3.76 ........................... 6.34 14 % Spring...................... 5.63...............................9.58 ..............................6.62 ............................5.29 ........................... 9.48 Barley................................. 7.30...............................9.60 ..............................6.86 ............................6.30 ...........................11.75 Pocatello: White Wheat..................... 4.85............................... 7.15 .............................4.55 ............................3.70............................ 6.00 11% Winter....................... 5.08...............................8.30 ..............................4.74 ............................3.59 ........................... 5.96 14% Spring........................ 5.53............................... 9.18 .............................6.43 ............................5.21 ........................... 9.56 Barley................................. 7.20...............................9.00 ...........................6.65 ..........................5.94 ........................... 11.35

Burley: White Wheat..................... 4.85...............................6.95 ..............................4.35 ............................3.70............................ 6.20 11% Winter....................... 5.01...............................8.14 .............................4.99 ............................3.73 .......................... 6.06 14% Spring........................ 5.35...............................8.87 ..............................6.28 ............................5.05 .......................... 9.36 Barley................................. 6.50...............................9.50 ..............................5.75 ..........................5.25 .......................... 11.25 Nampa: White Wheat (cwt).......... 8.67..............................12.08...............................7.75 ............................6.08............................. 9.58 (bushel)........... 5.20...............................7.25 ..............................4.65 ............................3.65............................. 5.75 Lewiston: White Wheat..................... 5.75...............................8.25 ..............................5.45 ............................4.25............................. 6.40 Barley............................... 153.50........................... 211.50 .........................126.50...........................111.50......................... 216.50 Bean Prices: Pintos................................25.00 ......................33.00................................N/A........................28.00-30.00...................... 30.00 Pinks............................22.00-23.00..........................N/A.................................N/A..............................30.00.......................30.00-32.00 Small Reds...................23.00-25.00..........................N/A.................................N/A..............................30.00..............................N/A ***

IDAHO Milk production up 5.4 Percent June 17, 2011 Idaho milk production during May 2011 totaled 1.14 billion pounds, a 5.4 percent increase from the same month last year, and up 6.0 percent from April 2011, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Average milk production per cow in May 2011 was 1,980 pounds, up 40 pounds from last year’s level. The average number of milk cows during May was 577,000 head, up 18,000 from May 2010, and up 1,000 head from April 2011.

Milk production in the 23 major States during May totaled 16.0 billion pounds, up 1.5 percent from May 2010. April revised production at 15.5

billion pounds, was up 1.7 percent from April 2010. The April revision represented an increase of 3 million pounds or less than 0.1 percent from last month’s preliminary production estimate. Production per cow in the 23 major States averaged 1,899 pounds for May, 6 pounds above May 2010.

The number of milk cows on farms in the 23 major States was 8.45 million head, 103,000 head more than May 2010, and 15,000 head more than April 2011.

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

37

5 Year livestock comparison .....................................06/20/2007...................06/24/2008.................. 06/23/2009.................06/22/2010.................. 06/27/2011 Under 500 lbs................108-139 .....................120-130..........................94-124 ...................101-140 .................... 125-161 500-700 lbs..................... 97-131 ........................94-135 ..........................88-115 ........................97-132 .......................112-152 700-900 lbs..................... 86-119 .........................88-119 ..........................77-107 ......................85-110 ...................... 102-140 Over 900 lbs...................77-101...........................88-107............................80-86 ......................... 88-98 ........................95-108 Feeder Heifers Under 500 lbs................106-125.........................103-120..........................85-113 ....................97-132 .......................115-153 500-700 lbs..................... 91-120 .........................94-117 ..........................83-114 ......................87-125 ....................... 91-136 700-900 lbs..................... 78-110...........................87-110.............................74-94 .......................... 73-90 ........................ 82-121 Over 900 lbs.................... 71-97 ..........................81-101 .............................N/A .......................... N/A ...................... 82-105 Holstein Steers Under 700 lbs..................62-88 ...........................55-74 ............................48-74 ..........................65-102.......................... 65-115 Over 700 lbs.................... 51-81 ...........................50-70 ...........................45-60 ......................... 65-81 .........................65-95 Cows Utility/Commercial...........35-64.............................38-68.............................33-53............................ 43-68............................52-83 Canner & Cutter..............28-52.............................29-57.............................22-45............................ 35-60............................40-72 Stock Cows......................550-805 ......................650-840 .....................570-1080......................700-900 .....................850-1500 Bulls – Slaughter............53-68.............................47-72.............................43-67........................... 47-84 .........................60-95

Idaho Cattle on Feed Up 10% from Previous Year

June 17, 2011 Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in Idaho from feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head on June 1, 2011 totaled 230,000 head, up 10 percent from the previous year, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service. The cattle on feed inventory is unchanged from May 1, 2011. Placements of cattle in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head during May totaled 36,000 head, up 4,000 head from May 2010 placements. Marketings of cattle from feedlots with 1,000 head or more during May totaled 35,000 head, up 4,000 head from a year ago. Other disappearance totaled 1,000 head during May. Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 10.9 million head on June 1, 2011.The inventory was 4 percent above June 1, 2010. Placements in feedlots during May totaled 1.81 million, 11 percent below 2010. Net placements were 1.73 million head. During May, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 415,000, 600-699 pounds were 355,000, 700-799 pounds were 480,000, and 800 pounds and greater were 560,000. Marketings of fed cattle during May totaled 2.00 million, 7 percent above 2010. Other disappearance totaled 80,000 during May, 18 percent below 2010.

Keller

Continued from page 2 As an example, roughly one in four of the nation’s bridges are either structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. Bridges are usually built with a life expectancy of 50 years. The average bridge is now 43 years old. Structurally deficient bridges are not necessarily unsafe, but are such that weight and speed limits must be applied. Functionally obsolete bridges are those that are not able to accommodate today’s traffic load or vehicle sizes and weights, forcing traffic congestion and emergency vehicle detours.

In 2004, nearly half of all bridge improvement funding came from federal funds.

These are frequently targets of budget earmarks (for example, the bridge to nowhere).

Consequently, one would expect a more difficult federal funding environment.

Obviously, bridges connect roads. Between 1980 and 2005, vehicle miles traveled by automobiles increased 94 percent, with truck miles traveled up by 105 percent during the same period. Yet the actual amount of road miles in the country increased only 3.5 percent, indicating that roads are more crowded today than they were 30 years ago.

The National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Commission estimates it will 38

take more than $150 billion per year just to maintain the nation’s roads. The Highway Trust Fund took in around $35 billion in fiscal year 2010 and between fiscal years 2008 to 2010 was supplemented with roughly $30 billion from general revenues. The cost of road maintenance is directly related to the number of miles traveled, but as vehicle efficiency improves, the effective revenue per mile driven is going down.

A final example is the inland waterways including the locks and dam system that makes navigation possible on large portions of our major rivers. Forty-one states, including all states east of the Mississippi River, have commercially navigable waterways. There are more than 12,000 miles of navigable waterways between the Mississippi, Ohio, Gulf Intercoastal and the Pacific Coast systems.

The Mississippi system alone totals 9,000 miles. These systems are served by 257 locks and dams, nearly half of which were classified by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as functionally obsolete in 2006. While a significant proportion of the funding needed to support our infrastructure comes from dedicated trust funds, other federal, state and local funds are playing an increasingly impor-

Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

tant role in not only the maintenance of this infrastructure, but an even greater role in the expansion of our current system.

Some have suggested major shifts in the way in which we provide for infrastructure. One option is to privatize many of these functions, such as toll roads or bridges. Legislation has been introduced recently to establish a national bank, seeded initially with federal funds, to attract private investors to provide resources for infrastructure improvement.

Naturally these investors would expect some kind of revenue stream in the future, either through tolls or tax revenue, and some are expecting the activity could attract more than $500 billion in investments.

How will we fund just the maintenance and improvement of our nation’s infrastructure in order to keep goods flowing to the marketplace and generally providing for the day to day operation of the nation?

Are we willing to pay higher levels of usage fees for roads, bridges, locks and other associated infrastructure?

Is the establishment of a national infrastructure bank a reasonable approach toward handling this issue in the future?

Classifieds Animals

Miscellaneous

Real Estate/Acreage

Wanted

ASCA registered Australian Shepherd pups.

Working line since 1968. Full satisfaction guaranteed. All four colors available now.

Boise, Id 208-484-9802

Flowers, both annuals and perennials for sale. I have marigold, snap dragons, poppies, lilies, hollyhocks and mallow, Kiss me over the Fence, Love in a mist, Sunflowers and more. Bring your own containers and you dig. Nampa, Id. Please call for prices. 208466-5917

Great Home on 18 acres with river views in Horseshoe Bend. Home sits on 6 acres, with two additional 6 acre lots to keep or sell. NO CC&R’s. Home is located between Horseshoe Bend & Sweet. Price: $295,000 Call: 208-860-0140

Paying cash for German & Japanese war relics/souvenirs! Pistols, rifles, swords, daggers, flags, scopes, optical equipment, uniforms, helmets, machine guns (ATF rules apply) medals, flags, etc. 549-3841 (evenings) or 208-405-9338.

Miniature Donkey bottle baby jack on goat milk & eating hay. Great 4H project, drive, pack, weedeater. Sweet & gentle animals. $300. 2006 Jenny, 34”, dark brown, just bred to 32” Jack. $800/obo. cldkmcd@ frontiernet.net Parma 208-722-6700 APHA horses for sale. Stallion Service fee: $400. LFG. Quality conformation. Super disposition. Good bloodlines. Some rideable.

Caldwell, Id 208-454-2454

Farm Equipment MF-165 with loader and blade; ditcher; tractor tire – BF Goodrich 6 ply 42-11 rim.

Rupert, Id 208-436-9985 PTO generator Winco model W15PTOS 15000 watts, New, still on pallet. Half of new price $1,500. Kamiah, Id 208-816-3140 1981 KW COE 145 WB, 445 Detroit, 9sp 4.11, Hay Squeeze-lifts 4 1 ton, 9 midsize, 1970 Chev -653 Detroit-AT-PS. Pocatello, Id. 208-237-4013 15.5 X 38 tractor tires on JD rims, no fluid, new tubes, 99% - $1250.00 pair obo.

18.4 X 34 tractor tires on t-rail clamp duals, 90% - $1500.00 pair/obo. Cash Only.

New Plymouth, Id. Leave message at 208278-5713 Balewagons: New Holland self-propelled or pull-type models. Also interested in buying balewagons. Will consider any model. Call Jim Wilhite at 208-880-2889 anytime

Recreational Equipment

Going out of Wedding cake business, all supplies for sale. $450 takes all. All sizes and different shape pans, cake boards, wire candle light cake stand, Fountain, tips, pan strips, liquid paste colors, 5 and 6 ft metal racks. Plates, pillars and much more.

McCammon, Id 208-254-3388

2008 Roadtreck Freightliner motorhome.

22 mpg, 6,000 miles. Diesel, microwaveconvention oven. Stovetop, shower, bathroom.

Plasma TV, DVD, surround stereo system. Too many features to list all. Asking $74,000.

Twin Falls, Id. Call 208-320-0822

Have crane for hire. Blackfoot, Id. Call Matt Reid 208-317-2934

Vehicles

Real Estate/Acreage

2003 Cadillac SUV Escalade, Asking $14,999 Nampa, Id. 208-412-5789

Family or Corporate vacation retreat in the Tetons. 23 elevated acres, fenced, 10 acres trees, 13 acres grass, hay shed, 3,000sf, six bedroom, 3 bath efficient log home. Price reduced. Please contact drichardson@ gemstar.net or 208-242-4294 or 208-2429125

Heavy duty International truck with 24ft steel bed, light weight, high capacity, low maintenance, powered with L-10 Cummins in line six motor. Equipped with Hendricksen air lift pusher axle. Asking $19,000. Rexburg, Id. 208-356-5624

Henry, ID. Beautiful log home. 20 acres. 2200 S.F. 10 inch logs. Two bedroom, 2 bath, loft, double garage, laundry, etc.

Masonry 2 story fireplace, radiant heat, hickory floors, built-in vac., softener. No expense spared. $379,000. alpinegirl. diana@gmail.com 970-764-4343.

200 deeded acres, Owyhee County, 3500+ acres BLM for 100 cows, log home, shop, barn, free water from Trout Creek for 80 acre hay meadow. Fishing, hunting, private, peaceful. $685,000 cash. Call JoAnn 208583-4146

Old License Plates Wanted: Also key chain license plates, old signs, light fixtures. Will pay cash. Please email, call or write. Gary Peterson, 130 E Pecan, Genesee, Id 83832. gearlep@gmail.com. 208-285-1258

DEADLINE DATES:

ADS MUST BE RECEIVED BY

JULY 20 FOR

NEXT ISSUE. FREE CLASSIFIEDS

Non commercial classified ads are free to Idaho Farm Bureau members.

Must include membership number for free ad. Forty (40) words maximum.

Non-member cost- 50 cents per word. You may advertise your own crops, livestock, used machinery, household items, vehicles, etc. Ads will not be accepted by phone. Ads run one time only and must be re-submitted in each subsequent issue. We reserve the right to refuse to run any ad. Please type or print clearly. Proof-read your ad.

Mail ad copy to: GEM STATE PRODUCER P.O. Box 4848, Pocatello, ID 83205-4848 or email Dixie at DASHTON@IDAHOFB.ORG Name: __________________________________________________________________________

SEND US YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

Address: _________________________________________________________________________

FREE TO IDAHO FARM BUREAU MEMBERS!

Phone: _____________________________________ Membership No. ___________________

send to: dashton@idahofb.org

City / State / Zip: __________________________________________________________________

Ad Copy: ________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________ Idaho Farm Bureau producer / July 2011

39