Union Farmer December 2019

Volume CIV, No. 8 Huron, SD DECEMBER 2019

A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

SERVING SOUTH DAKOTA’S FARM & RANCH FAMILIES SINCE 1915.

Wettest Year on Record

Rebuilding the Future

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Star in Education Award

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Weather Trends

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United in Tough Times 2019 State Convention

S.D. Farmers Union Celebrates Parkston Farm Family

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South Dakota Farmers Union has served South Dakota farm and ranch families for more than a century. Throughout the year, we share their stories in order to highlight the families who make up our state’s No. 1 industry and help feed the world. This month we highlight the Harnisch farm family of Parkston.

tanding before members carrying a homeplate, S.D. Farmers Union President Doug Sombke explained that before he was passionate about his family and farming, he was passionate about baseball.

“Baseball has been a part of my life since I was young. I’ve learned a lot from the sport,” explains the fourth-generation Conde crop and cattle farmer who was re-elected to serve during the 2019

Convention Continued on Page 16 10-11 2020

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t’s the difference between a boss and a manager, explains Matthew Harnisch of the working relationship he and his brothers have with their parents, Lynn and Sharleen.

“A boss tells you what to do. A good manager includes you in on decisions. Growing up, my parents never told us we had to do things. They created an atmosphere where we were always part of the operation. We had ownership in the operation. We had skin in the game.”

He and his brothers, Daniel and David, still have “skin in the game.”

And although all three men have full-time careers off the farm, most evenings and weekends find at least one, if not all three, back on the family’s crop and cattle farm near Parkston.

“What I find enjoyable about farming is being a part of growing a crop from a little seed all the way through harvest,” explains Daniel, who works full-time helping area farmers as an agronomist for Mettler Fertilizer.

“I enjoy being able to improve that crop with crop rotation, cover crops, no-till and tiling, all while improving the overall soil health for the next generation,” adds Daniel who has two sons already interested in farming.

Lynn and Sharleen are happy their boys decided to remain involved.

Harnisch Family Continued on Page 2

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Harnisch Family

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“When the boys are around, things are just more exciting and I feel energized,” explains their dad, Lynn, 65. “When they started disappearing from home for college, it took the wind out of me.”

Like his sons, after high school Lynn left the farm to pursue an off-farm career as a mechanic. While he was working at Schmidt Motors, he met Sharleen, a farmgirl from Freeman.

Around the time they welcomed their third son, Matthew, into the world, Lynn was ready to return to the family farm, so he bought a quarter of land and a farmstead that was previously owned by his great uncle.

To complement their farm income, he opened Harnisch Repair. “I don’t like working for other people, but rather I enjoy the independence of farming,” he says.

From the start, Lynn and Sharleen were not afraid to do things different from how their fathers farmed. And like Matthew pointed out, the couple let their sons take

the lead, implementing new management practices. “You know that old TV show, My Three Sons, we like to joke, on our farm it’s My Three Agronomists,” Sharleen says.

So, it makes sense that a lot of practices began to change about the time the boys graduated college – all three have agronomy degrees from South Dakota State University.

Following the advice of their sons, they converted their field management practices to no-till and updated their equipment with precision agriculture technology.

“No-till cut down on the workload, and the more I understand about soil biology and soil structure the more I am encouraged by no-till,” Lynn explains.

“No-till is the way we have chosen to farm as we need to protect our soils and our water,” says David. His brothers agree, building soil health is the family’s ultimate motivation for practices like no-till, adding cover crops to their corn and soybean rotation, and grazing cattle on cover crops

during the winter months.

“It is all about what the yield monitor in the corner of the combine cab says at harvest,” Matthew adds. “We are always pushing the envelope to increase yields. At the end of the day, the monitor is our report card, and soil health is one step in improving our yields.”

Today, Lynn leaves the input decisions up to his sons – Matthew selects the seed hybrids and varieties, while Daniel takes care of the fertility and chemical programs. “Our father says some days he just follows directions,” Matthew says. “He has a field plan we put together for each field in the tractor that tells him the hybrid, the population, the fertility program and the chemical program. It reinforces the fact that he is a good manager and understands the value of each person’s strengths.”

“I would not do as much as I do at my age if my sons were not around to help,” Lynn says.

Hauling grain 30 miles to go 4 Flooding along the James River Valley created unique challenges for the Harnisches

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Union Farmer “It is satisfying, making something old work again.”

– Lynn Harnisch

this growing season. In addition to wet field conditions, several roads they depend on for hauling cattle and grain at harvest washed out.

“When we were able to get into fields for harvest, hauling grain to the yard ended up being a 30-mile-drive rather than four mile drive, because of washed out and flooded roads,” Lynn says.

Lynn likes to overwinter his cattle close to the farmstead. As of Dec. 4, because of a 30-foot-wide, 300-foot-long washout on County Road 272, the road he typically uses to move cattle to the farm is closed. He is having to figure out another way to move his cattle home.

“I’m hoping next spring turns a lot better than last spring,” he says.

Preserving history of agriculture After harvest is completed, Lynn will spend the winter working on equipment. “I do not like equipment breakdowns during planting and harvest, so in the winter I bring the corn planter, the combine and tractors through the shop for maintenance,” he explains.

Just like other projects around the farm, his sons grew up helping Lynn in the shop. In addition to repairs, the men have redesigned

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and manufactured farm equipment to meet their individual needs. When they decided to go to 22-inch rows, the men stripped a planter and rebuilt it to work for their corn and soybean operation.

During a collegiate agriculture tour of Argentina, Matthew saw a design for a planter closing wheel he thought would work well. He took a few photos and when he returned home, he, his dad and brothers designed and manufactured them for their planter.

“We had some struggles when we initially implemented no-till into our operation. In Argentina, they are pretty far advanced with no-till practices. I took a close look at the closing wheel designs they were using on their planters and drills and brought back some ideas that would work on our planter,” Matthew recalls.

In addition to the equipment used on their farm today, the Harnisches are often working on a piece or two of antique farm equipment. “We think it’s important to preserve how this country came to be where it is,” says David. “If you don’t have antique machinery to show the past, how will you understand?”

The hobby began when Lynn restored the stationary engine his Grandpa Harms used to pump water Grandma Harms used to run

the washing machine. He pulled it out of the tree grove and began working on it. “It is satisfying, making something old work again, something other people don’t normally get to see,” Lynn says. “I get satisfaction from having stuff that runs nice.”

Since that first engine, the men have restored an 1880 Hero Burr Mill, 1927 Case, 1929 Case haypress and 1940 John Deere A … to name a few. They exhibit their equipment at antique power shows across the Midwest, including Madison’s Historic Prairie Village and the Menno Power Show. “The shows are a family event,” Sharleen explains.

Daniel serves as the chair of the Menno show.

“My brothers and I have repaired engines and tractors throughout high school and college,” he says. “The first one I restored was a horse-and-a-half John Deere.”

During the shows, the equipment doesn’t sit idle. It’s put to work so visitors can see how it worked.

“There are a lot of people who have never seen this equipment.

They don’t know what it actually does.

To me, it’s important that we show it working so we can understand how we’ve progressed.

We need to preserve this for generations to come,” Lynn says.

To see videos of the vintage farm equipment at work, visit www.sdfu.org and click on the Farm & Ranch Family tab found on the About Us page. ■ By Lura Roti for SDFU December 2019

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S.D. Farmers Union Applauds Gov. Noem-Led Effort to Reduce Toxins in Gasoline

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n a letter to President Donald Trump calling for the reduction of toxins in gasoline, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem joined Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz in urging the president to have the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforce existing law that would protect public health and potentially increase ethanol demand.

Walz and Noem are the Chair and Vice Chair of the Governors’ Biofuel Coalition, with Noem taking over as Chair in February 2020.

They cited a 30-year-old provision in the Clean Air Act Amendments requiring the U.S. EPA to reduce the aromatic compounds in gasoline.

These compounds include known and suspected carcinogens, such as benzene, which are used to increase octane.

South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) President Doug Sombke says, “We applaud Gov. Noem and her fellow governors for looking beyond the daily battles of the Renewable Fuel Standard and recognizing ethanol’s true value is in higher blends. That value includes protecting public health and providing desperately needed new markets for our agricultural products.”

In their letter to the president, the governors said, “One practical and cost-effective way to reduce aromatics is to use 30 percent ethanol blends to reduce particulate matter and black carbon emissions by 45 percent, and hydrocarbon pollution by more than 20 percent. “ SDFU and the Farmers Union Enterprises have led the effort to get EPA to do their job and enforce the laws that have been on the books for decades. “As the governors state in their letter, the average gallon of gasoline contains 30 percent toxic compounds, and even more are formed when fuel is combusted and comes out of the tailpipe,” says Sombke. “Our research has shown these emissions are linked to everything from respiratory disease to neurological ailments and this must stop now.”

Sombke said they are in discussions with the Noem administration

to demonstrate E30 blends in state vehicles as Nebraska and other states are doing. Currently E30 is a popular fuel blend in Watertown, S.D., through the E30 Challenge sponsored by Glacial Lakes Energy.

“We are hopeful the Safe Affordable Fuel Economy (SAFE) rule will be finalized in the very near future and may raise octane levels as SDFU and others have called for. In doing so, it would open the door to these higher blends since it is illegal to raise octane by increasing these toxic levels,” says Sombke.

For more information on SAFE, visit https://www. safegasolinecampaign.org/. ■

Johnson to Retire from Role as Farmers Union President

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fter serving as president of National Farmers Union (NFU) for more than a decade, Roger Johnson announced that he does not intend to seek re-election again next year. His current term will end at the organization’s annual convention in March, at which point an election for his successor will be held.

During his 11-year-long tenure, Johnson has led efforts to fight corporate consolidation in the agriculture industry, help farmers adapt to and mitigate climate change, develop fair international trade agreements, provide information and resources to rural communities struggling with mounting stress and opioid misuse and ensure the economic and social viability of family farm agriculture. Prior to leading the family farm organization, he served as North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner and as President of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA).

Johnson, a third-generation family farmer from Turtle Lake, N.D., grew up in Farmers Union, participating in the organization’s youth programs and serving as a county president and chairman of the board of a local Farmers Union cooperative. He released the following statement about his impending retirement:

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“Farmers Union has been a fundamental part of my identity for my entire life – and it has been my greatest honor to serve this organization and the admirable farmers and ranchers who comprise its membership. It’s a bittersweet feeling to take a step back from this career-defining role, but ultimately, it’s time for me to spend more time with my wife and four grandchildren.

“My top priority, as president and now during this transition process, is to protect the future of family farmers and rural communities, and I am confident that National Farmers Union is well positioned to keep doing just that. Compared to where we were 11 years ago, today we are more financially secure, our membership is growing and we have built our reputation as a leader for progressive agriculture – all thanks to our highly capable and dedicated team. My decision will change none of these things.

While I enjoy my quiet retirement, I am sure that Farmers Union staff and members will continue the organization’s 117-year-long mission to build a better, more sustainable and more equitable food system.” ■ www.sdfu.org

Scholarships Presented During SDFU Convention

Megan Ann Linke Danika Grace Gordon Plans after high school: Plans after high school: SDSU SDSU, agricultural business with marketing and human resource focuses

Moran Ann Kwasniewski Plans after high school: SDSU, speech therapy

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hree college-bound youth were awarded scholarships during South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention in Aberdeen, Dec. 10-11. SDFU annually gives recognition to young people who commit to a South Dakota college, university or technical institute, and whose parents are current members of Farmers Union.

“Farmers Union starts investing in youth at age 5 and that investment is never ending as they progress through their education. We are excited for our youth as they transition into the next chapter and are thankful to continue our support for their future,” says Rachel Haigh-Blume, South Dakota Farmers Union Education Director.

This year, the $500 Memorial Scholarships were awarded to Danika Grace Gordon, Lawrence County, and Moran Ann Kwasniewski, Deuel County. The $500 Cooperative Scholarship was awarded to Megan Ann Linke, Aurora County.

South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke adds, “Supporting the future education of our rural youth is key to the future of our rural communities.” ■

Columnist John Phipps Shares Tough Love with Convention-Goers

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or 25 years, John Phipps has been adding humor and insights to the culture of American agriculture. Humor, however, was not part of his talk during the 2019 South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention held Dec. 10-11 in Aberdeen.

Instead, Phipps focused on the unpredicted changes impacting today’s farmers and ranchers. “The future we thought was going to happen, probably isn’t,” says the farmer/engineer/woodworker during his “Rebuilding the Future” talk.

Forecast growth in global population and export markets – which motivated U.S. farmers to increase acres, yields and embrace precision ag technology, Phipps explains are simply not happening. “Now, instead of 20 billion by 2050, it looks like global population will peak at 8.5 billion around 2060.”

Listen to what consumers have to say Predicting consumer trends is not easy, but Phipps suggests if farmers spend more time listening to what consumers have to say, they would not be blindsided by trends that impact their markets – like artificial protein.

“Don’t kid yourselves that people want the real thing,” he says sharing an example of Cool Whip versus real whipped cream. “There is nothing wrong with real whipped cream, but Cool Whip is what my grandkids want on our pumpkin pie. We have a generation growing up who expect whipped cream to taste like Cool Whip.”

He applies similar thoughts to climate change. “Farmers have got to start thinking a little more widely and allow for some chance.

Maybe I could compromise my ideas of whether or not climate change is real and instead, ask ourselves, what am I going to do with the information?” In response to climate predictions, Phipps says he and his sons put in drainage tile.

So, what are we to do?

Faced with many factors out of their control, Phipps encourages farmers to make decisions today that will pay off for the next generation. “We need to forget how to position our farm for the

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next five years and ask ourselves, ‘how can I position the farm for my grandson?’”

To deal with tight margins, he encourages farmers to take a hard look at every enterprise on their farm. “Ask yourself, is it contributing to the bottom line, or does it just keep me busy?” And even consider off-farm income. “The idea that we want to live on our farm and only do the kind of work that we love…don’t expect someone to pay you for it,” he says. “Farmers need to take a look at their skills, and ask themselves how they can deploy these skills. Farmers need to stop thinking about what types of income are acceptable. If it is legal, you need to figure out some way to attach another income to the farm.” ■ December 2019

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Union Farmer Tom Daschle Named 2019 Ag Ambassador

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ne of the state’s largest agriculture organizations, South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) recognized former Sen. Tom Daschle for his dedication to South Dakota agriculture with the 2019 Ag Ambassador Award during the organization’s 104th State Convention held in Aberdeen Dec. 10-11.

“Sen. Daschle is a longtime friend to South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers. For everything he did as a senator, and all he does today as an ethanol advocate, we honor him,” says Doug Sombke, SDFU President.

Daschle’s connection and service to agriculture began in his childhood. “As a young teenager, I spent my summers working on my aunts’ and uncles’ farms, and even aspired to be a farmer during those years,” he shares.

His passion for South Dakota’s agriculture industry and its people is evidenced throughout his career by many of his actions. “When I got elected to Congress, given agriculture’s importance to South Dakota and my great respect and admiration for farm families, my decision to seek a seat on the Agriculture Committee was an easy one. I made the same decision when I was elected to the Senate,” he explains. “There is no more important profession in society than that of a farmer. Our public policy ought to reflect that.”

To emphasize this fact, Daschle shares a story he borrowed from a former chair of the House Agriculture Committee, Texas Rep. Kika de la Garza.

“Rep. Kika de la Garza used to tell a story about a time when he was given the opportunity to spend a day on a nuclear submarine. As they cruised under the surface of the sea, he asked the captain how long the submarine could stay under water. The captain replied, ‘As long as we have food for our crew.’

“How long can civilization survive on the planet? As long as we have enough food,” Daschle says.

Adding value to agriculture commodities, Daschle adds, is important to sustaining South Dakota’s agriculture. “The ethanol

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“There is no more important profession in society than that of a farmer.

Our public policy ought to reflect that.”

SDFU recognized former Sen. Tom Daschle (left) for his dedication to South Dakota agriculture with the 2019 Ag Ambassador Award. Daschle is pictured here during the 2019 National Farmers Union D.C. Fly-In.

industry is a prime example of what value-added agriculture means to our farmers and our state,” he says. “There is a direct correlation between adding value and adding agricultural viability. As important as all agricultural commodities are, it matters a great deal what we do with them. Farmers are invaluable producers of food, feed, fiber and fuel. But, we must continue to find ways to enhance the value of each of these categories rather than be content to simply sell our crops to others to do so. Enhancing value not only creates more profitability on the farm, it has great potential to create jobs and economic viability for our rural communities.”

Strength in Numbers In 1978, Daschle was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served for eight years. In 1986, he was elected to the U.S. Senate and was chosen as Senate Democratic Leader in 1994. Daschle is one of the longest serving Senate Democratic leaders in history and one of only two to serve twice as both Majority and Minority Leader.

Since leaving the Senate, Daschle has remained an active and learned voice among policymakers, emerging as a leading thinker on climate change, food security and renewable energy policy. He serves on both advisory and governing boards of a number of corporate and non-profit organizations and as a commissioner on the Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense.

Today, Daschle is the Founder and CEO of The Daschle Group, a Public Policy Advisory of Baker Donelson. The Daschle Group is a fullservice strategic advisory firm that advises clients on a broad array of economic, policy and political issues.

The 2019 SDFU Ag Ambassador emphasizes the importance of family farmers and ranchers working together. “In a democratic republic, strength comes in numbers. I remember once, long ago at a county fair, watching a man make a rope. He noted that a single strand of his rope could be easily broken but woven together that rope was virtually unbreakable. That is true for organizations, too.

Woven together, Farmers Union members are far stronger than when they stand alone. Together they have shown their strength in South Dakota and in Washington. And today, they are needed more than ever.” ■ www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer Industrial Hemp Seed Sales Manager Shares Growing Tips with South Dakota Farmers

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n 2019, Horizon Hemp Seeds Sales and Marketing Manager Derrick Dohmann and his team closely monitored their first crop of industrial hemp seed. During the 2019 South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) State Convention held in Aberdeen Dec. 10-11, farmers and ranchers from across the state were able to glean valuable growing tips from what Dohmann learned.

“With the Trade War, we need to find commodities that can be sold domestically. And industrial hemp is a commodity that has a lot of domestic demand, which is why we wanted to hear from someone growing it,” says Doug Sombke, SDFU President.

an acre. Seed costs about $250 per unit.

No need for herbicide A hearty crop, Dohmann says they planted the crop in 15-inch rows, saw emergence within five days and complete canopy within two weeks. “In the U.S., there is not a herbicide approved to spray, but you don’t need weed controls because within two weeks the plant cuts off sunlight. It is truly incredible to see it happen.”

Planting depth is the only aspect of raising the crop which Dohmann says growers need to monitor closely. “Planting no deeper than half an inch is critical with this crop. I have heard horror stories of folks planting an inch deep and nothing comes up.”

Because it does not require much water, Dohmann says the excessive moisture throughout the 2019 growing season resulted in lower than anticipated yields.

And although the plant grows to heights of 90 inches, its foot-long taproot anchors it well. “I was curious how it would handle 40- to-50mile-an-hour wind. We had hardly anything flipped over in the field.

If it was blown down, it did come back,” Dohmann says.

One of the state’s largest farm organizations, in 2020 SDFU will support Lee Qualm, House Majority Leader and Chair of Industrial Hemp Summer Study, when he introduces a bill to legalize industrial hemp in South Dakota. To follow this and other policy developments, visit www.sdfu.org. ■

In 2019, Horizon Hemp Seeds Sales and Marketing Manager Derrick Dohmann and his team closely monitored their first crop of industrial hemp seed.

During the 2019 South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) State Convention held in Aberdeen Dec. 10-11, farmers and ranchers from across the state were able to glean valuable growing tips from what Dohmann learned.

With a THC level of less than 0.016 (legally industrial hemp needs to be 0.3 or less) the Madison, S.D.-based seed company, Horizon Hemp Seeds, hopes to help fill the growing demand for industrial hemp seed by raising certified seed. Planted 20 pounds to the acre in a 200-acre field in the Red River Valley of North Dakota, the industrial hemp seed raised in 2019 will be sold to farmers across the region… just not in South Dakota.

To date, South Dakota is one of only three states industrial hemp is not legal to raise. In 2019 the South Dakota Senate failed to override Gov. Kristi Noem’s veto of House Bill 1191 after the 2018 Farm Bill directed USDA to establish a national regulatory framework for hemp production in the United States. In October, the USDA established the U.S. Domestic Hemp Production Program through an interim final rule.

This rule outlines provisions for the USDA to approve plans submitted

by States and Indian Tribes for the domestic production of hemp. It also establishes a federal plan for producers in states or territories of Indian tribes that do not have their own USDA-approved plan.

If South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers are able to plant the crop in 2020, Dohmann says the low-input crop can yield between 1,200 and 1,500 pounds of industrial hemp per acre or about $500 to $600 www.sdfu.org

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Union Farmer Building Connections for Soil Health

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. D. Farmers Union has been

awarded a Building Connections for Soil Health Grant from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. The goal is to bring attention to the adaptation of farming and conservation practices that assist in increasing organic matter and protect water quality.

The three-year Building Connections Grant will focus on reaching out to producers at conferences, meetings and field days to educate and share practices that benefit our soils.

We will be proactive in finding producers to discuss conservation practices and to also sign up to become a mentor on the Building Connections Mentor Network. Through the Building Connections Mentor Network, mentors serve as a resource to other producers who have questions about cover-cropping, no-till farming, rotational grazing, etc. Our goal is to get one member signed up as a mentor every year for the next three years of the grant cycle.

Currently there are nine SDFU members/families who also serve as mentors: Scott and Amber Kolousek, Craig Rau, Jim Faulstich, Dallas Anderson, Bart Carmichael, Gary and Amy Cammack, Dan Nigg, Lynn Harnisch and Lewis Bainbridge. Through “Building Connections” we can further our never-ending task of being the world’s best land stewards. ■ By Luke Reindl, Communications & Legislative Specialist

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Union Farmer No One Turned Off the Tap: 2019 Wettest on Record A view of standing water in a corn field from Groton farmer Chad Johnson’s combine.

“My friends and I think we tried too hard this spring to plant because now we can’t get the crop harvested. I have gotten the grain cart stuck a couple times. I know people who have gotten their combine stuck.” – Chad Johnson

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Groton farmer Chad Johnson talks about the challenges 32-plus inches of moisture brought to growing season 2019.

ased on 125 years of South Dakota weather data, 2019 is the wettest on record, says SDSU Extension State Climatologist Laura Edwards.

“This season tells the story of a long-term climate trend we are seeing of wetter weather. It has created many challenges for our farmers,” Edwards says. “Throughout the growing season I heard farmers say they would rather have a drought than a flood because a flood does more damage to the land and equipment. Flooding creates so much more work and managing a farm through an excessively wet year requires much more labor.”

Groton farmer Chad Johnson would agree with the farmers Edwards visited with. He can easily compare the two extremes because in 2018 his area was under a severe drought. And beginning with an April 2019 blizzard, just in time for calving season, excess moisture has challenged every aspect of his farming operation.

“The heavens opened up and it rained, rained and rained. No one ever shut off the tap,” explains the fourth-generation farmer.

The 32-plus inches of rain his farm received led to a few deaths at calving and limited the number of acres Johnson was able to plant. This fall, standing water and muddy soil created by frequent rain and snow events make getting combines into corn and soybean fields challenging to say the least.

“My friends and I think we tried too hard this spring to plant because now we can’t get the crop harvested. I have gotten the grain cart stuck a couple times. I know people who have gotten their combine stuck,” explains Johnson, 47.

As of Dec. 2, he has 450 acres of corn left to harvest. Now, the crop is under 15-plus inches of snow. “I typically look forward to harvest.

It’s when I get to see what that new hybrid I planted did. It’s when I receive the fruits of my labor. Not harvest 2019. This fall, farmers in our area began referring to the season as Hellvest.”

Johnson’s story is not unique. According to the U.S. Department www.sdfu.org

of Agriculture, due to excess moisture, South Dakota producers were unable to plant 4 million acres. The greatest number of prevent plant acres of any state.

“It’s certainly a year for the history books and I’m afraid the impacts will be seen into the future,” says S.D. Secretary of Agriculture Kim Vanneman.

Impacts like soil compaction, explains Anthony Bly, SDSU Extension Soils Field Specialist. Caused by heavy equipment tracking on excessively wet soil, soil compaction decreases the soil’s ability to store water and transport nutrients, it also makes it difficult for plant’s roots to penetrate the soil because “it takes the pores out of the soil,” Bly says.

Like so many farmers this season, Bly, a fourth-generation Garretson farmer, had to make some tough management decisions which led to soil compaction. “Farmers, like me, did what we had to do. We needed to harvest on wet soils because the crop was ready and if we waited, we didn’t know what the weather would do.”

Compaction isn’t the only long-term side effect of 2019 weather.

When farmers are unable to plant or harvest their crops, the entire state feels the impact, Vanneman explains. “Agriculture is the backbone of South Dakota and when agriculture is impacted, there are ripple effects across the state.

Producers have fewer dollars to spend in town which has negative impacts on Main Street, in small communities like Winner and large ones, like Sioux Falls.”

But what about the disaster relief programs and crop insurance?

“These programs may help us cover our rental or land payments and input expenses, but there is no possibility of income. These payments don’t cover living expenses. Most farmers will just be happy if they can

“This season tells the story of a long-term climate trend we are seeing of wetter weather. It has created many challenges for our farmers,”

Wettest Record Continued on Page 26 December 2019

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South Dakota Teens Honored with 2019 Torchbearer Award

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outh Dakota Farmers Union honored a group of devoted youth for their commitment to community, involvement and leadership development during the 2019 S.D. Farmers Union State Convention held in Aberdeen Dec. 10-11.

The Torchbearer Award is the highest achievement in the S.D. Farmers Union Education Program. To receive the award, a camper must complete five years of service. It showcases the commitment campers have put toward the education department and the time dedicated to serving rural communities.

True to the name of the award, continuing the traditions of the S.D. Farmers Union educational programming is often a priority for those eligible to receive the Torchbearer Award.

The 2019 Torchbearers include Kathryn Nightingale, Aurora County; Megan Linke, Sanborn County; Marleigh Hulm, Perkins County; and Landon Copley, Brown County.

What does being a Torchbearer mean? Recipients elaborate on what the achievement means to them.

Kathryn Nightingale Aurora County, District II

“Being a Torchbearer is a way to light the way for others to work toward a better world. It is my way to keep the light shining for Farmers Union. Farmers Union has helped me gain confidence in my public speaking skills and to break out of my shell when talking to others. My favorite memories are of good night circle. I love how vulnerable people are willing to be and the amount of trust they have for everyone in the room.”

2019 Torchbearers include (left to right): Marleigh Hulm, Perkins County; Kathryn Nightingale, Aurora County; Megan Linke, Sanborn County, with SDFU Education Director Rachel Haigh-Blume. Landon Copley, Brown County, not pictured.

Kathryn is the daughter of Craig & Sandy Nightingale. Future Plans: Attend Black Hills State University.

Megan Linke

Sanborn County, District II “Being a Torchbearer marks my achievements and commitment to the Farmers Union organization. I am proud to say I have been involved in Farmers Union and have met this level. I have learned so much about leadership and cooperation and important skills like teamwork and responsibility. My favorite memories are the trips we have taken and the people I have met and the time you get to spend with them.”

Megan is the daughter of Henry & Paula Linke. Future Plans: Attend South Dakota State University.

Marleigh Hulm Perkins County, District VI

“Being a Torchbearer means having the commitment and dedication to reach the highest level I can at Farmers Union for the youth program. I will now graduate to an adult role. Farmers Union has taught me to be prepared and organized and care for my community and others. This is a skill I will find

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useful in my future endeavors, whether it be in the classroom, workplace or social settings.

One of my favorite memories is when we visited Feeding America and split into groups to help sort food. This was a perfect example of utilizing the best qualities Farmers Union has presented me with – an ability to cooperate and work well with others.”

Marleigh is the daughter of Keith Hulm & Brent & Carrie Roth. Future Plans: Attend Minnesota State University Moorhead, majoring in speech pathology.

Landon Copley Brown County, District VII

“Being a Torchbearer is one of the most influential moments of my life because of my love for Farmers Union and the friends and family that have inspired me to try something new. Farmers Union has given me the strength to go to college, apply for jobs and be more of an outgoing person. I am a better camper, leader, volunteer because of my time with Farmers Union. My favorite memory includes the special stories shared around campfire and how supportive everyone was when I ran for JAC.” Landon is the son of Shane & Darci Copley.

Currently attends Valley City State University, majoring in agricultural business. ■ www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

Who Do You Call When A Farmer Needs Help? Farmer’s Stress Hotline

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tanding before a crowd of farmers and ranchers attending the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) State Convention, Karl Oehlke made a simple request. “Stand up, find a partner, turn and look them in the eye.”

Once SDFU members responded.

Oehlke, shared a shocking statistic.

“There’s a good chance, one of you has a mental illness. Many don’t realize that across the United States, nearly 50 percent of people in their lifetime will have a diagnosis of a mental illness,” says Oehlke, a physician assistant with Avera Medical Group University Psychiatry Associates.

And today, due to chronic stressors facing Karl Oehlke, third-generation farmer & farm country, Oehlke physician assistant with Avera Medical says many farmers are Group University Psychiatry Associates. dealing with adjustment disorders. “This is a mental health diagnosis in response to an event or chain of events a person is currently experiencing.” Oehlke explains that adjustment disorders can last up to six months, but with proper medical treatment, may impact a client for a much shorter period of time. “This is a reason seeking help is important.”

When Oehlke talks about stress impacting farmers, he’s speaking from first-hand experience. Along with his career at Avera, Oehlke is a third-generation Hartford farmer.

How do you know if you or someone you love needs help? Oehlke shares a list of symptoms to review: Sleep: It is a misnomer that those who are depressed sleep. In fact, the majority of people experiencing an adjustment disorder pray for sleep. “They cannot turn off the gerbil wheel,” Oehlke says.

Interest: Not participating in activities you used to, or not enjoying certain activities you used to enjoy. Maybe you used to attend every

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basketball game or go to the elevator for coffee and you aren’t doing those things anymore or they don’t bring you joy when you do make an effort.

Guilt: Farmers or ranchers may experience fear that they will not be able to provide for their family. “In agriculture there is often an inverses proportion of responsibility and control. Basically, a huge amount of responsibility and very little control over aspects like weather, tariffs and renewable fuels. There are a lot of succession concerns. How did Grandpa make it through the Dirty Thirties or Dad in the ’80s, how come 2019 is the time we lose the farm?”

Energy: Not having the energy to do what you need to do.

Concentration or focus: Distracted easily. Unable to focus or concentrate. Not able to make decisions. Making frequent mistakes.

Lack of Appetite: Losing weight or gaining weight due to unhealthy eating habits.

Suicidal thinking: Thoughts or plans of hurting oneself.

What are my options?

Oehlke encourages SDFU members and anyone concerned about the mental health of themselves or someone they care about to reach out to a medical professional.

If a friend or loved one has diabetes or high blood pressure and their current diet or medications aren’t working, you wouldn’t tell them to “pull themselves up by their bootstraps and get over it.”

More than likely, you’d suggest they meet with their doctor.

The same thoughtfulness should apply when a neighbor or family member is struggling with anxiety or depression, says Oehlke. “You can’t just grit your teeth and bear it. If you have pneumonia, I will prescribe an antibiotic for you. If you have sleep disturbance, I will give you something for sleep. Right now, farmers are faced with a lot of stressors out of their control, which may be causing bonafide anxiety or depression. A medical professional can provide medication or counseling options to help with that too.”

Because of the fact that everyone knows everyone in rural communities, reaching out to a local professional over mental health concerns may be awkward. Another easy option is the Farmers Stress Hotline, 800-691-4336. Confidential and free, the service is available 24/7 and will help farmers, ranchers or their supporters connect with mental health services. ■ By Lura Roti for SDFU

December 2019

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Union Farmer Dedicated to Serving South Dakota Agriculture

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Doug Sombke Conde

Wayne Soren Lake Preston

Scott Kolousek Wessington Springs

ive South Dakota farmers were elected to serve S.D. Farmers Union (SDFU) members during the organization’s 2019 State Convention held in Aberdeen Dec. 10-11.

Conde farmer Doug Sombke was re-elected to serve as SDFU President and Lake Preston farmer Wayne Soren was re-elected to serve as SDFU Vice President. Wessington Springs farmer Scott Kolousek was newly elected to serve on the board of directors representing District 2, Oacoma rancher, David Reis was elected to serve on the board of directors representing District 4 and Parade rancher Oren Lesmeister was newly elected to serve on the board of directors representing District 6.

Skin in the game Like the more than 18,000 members they represent, these leaders are farmers and ranchers. Considering the current challenges facing South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers, Sombke says members can rely on their leadership team. “This is a grassroots organization.

Our members vote on the policy we advocate for. Our members vote on who will lead them. We understand our members’ concerns and challenges because all of us serving on the leadership team are farmers and ranchers too.”

Sombke has been actively involved in SDFU since the early 1980s when he and his wife, Mel, were struggling young farmers. Today, as he watches his sons as well as many other South Dakota farmers struggle due to the extreme weather and market conditions, he remains driven to provide support, guidance and vision for 2020 and beyond. “It’s not easy. Like all farmers and ranchers, the current situation makes it tough to keep a positive outlook. I see optimism in the unity this crisis has brought about. Together, we have made change in the past.

Oren Lesmeister Parade

David Reis Oacoma

Together, we will continue to make positive change.”

“Because we are in this together, we have a stronger voice,” adds Reis, an Oacoma rancher together with his wife, Brenda and their grown children.

For Kolousek, becoming more involved in SDFU is a proactive step he can take to impact change.

“When it comes to service, first I give my time to my church, then it’s Farmers Union because I am a farmer. This is our livelihood,” explains Kolousek, who raises cattle and some row crops with his parents and wife, Amber.

Kolousek became actively involved in Farmers Union after he and Amber participated in the 2014 D.C. Fly-In. Through the experience of meeting with congressional leaders and staff from South Dakota as well as states where agriculture does not have a large impact on the economy, the fifth-generation farmer says he realized Farmers Union gives a strong voice to family farmers and ranchers and policy that can make positive change.

“As farmers we need to stand up and work to make change,” Kolousek says. “We are being taken advantage of through corporate mergers. These consolidations not only impact the price of inputs, but because of packer consolidation, it impacts the price we receive for our cattle as well. The beef industry is my dad and my bread and butter.”

Prior to being elected to serve on the state board of directors, Kolousek served as President of Jerauld County Farmers Union. In this role, he worked to increase membership and his efforts paid off. By asking friends and neighbors, he was able to boost membership by 50 percent. “Getting young people involved is a focus and farmers in my generation as well,” explains the 44-year-old father of four.

To accomplish this, he and Amber decided to try something new.

Instead of hosting their county’s annual meeting in the community center, where the previous year only five members showed up, they

2019 NFU Convention Delegates Elected

Gerri Eide Gettysburg

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Jeff Kippley Aberdeen

Terry Sestak Tabor

Scott Kolousek Wessington Springs

Brian Cain Miller

Rachel Kippley Aberdeen

Amber Kolousek Wessington Springs

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Union Farmer hosted a barbecue on their farm. Forty-five members showed up. “In addition to existing members, I also invited every person in my phone who had ever expressed interest in Farmers Union, and we signed up four new members that evening.”

Kolousek’s comments and desire to reach out to young farmers, reminded Soren of why he got involved nearly 40 years ago. Like today, times were tough in the ’80s. “There were a lot of older members who worked to be supportive and uplifting to us young farmers, during a time when many farmers were saying, ‘I don’t want my kids coming back.‘ I appreciated their encouragement. And as a

“Partnering with others who share SDFU’s vision helps the organization create positive change; like teaming up with Glacial Lakes Energy, helping promote their E30 Challenge.”

mature farmer today, I feel like I need to provide this support and encouragement to the next generation.”

A crop and cattle producer, Soren sees SDFU as providing hope and supporting policy with vision. “Look at our policy work on ethanol and country-of-origin labeling. We don’t give up. When everyone was saying E15 is where we need to be, Farmers Union said, ‘Wait a minute, E30 is where we need to be. It’s good for consumers, it’s good for farmers, it’s good for the environment.’ And, look at the governor’s policy on E30. Same with truth in labeling. We continue to fight to get COOL back. In the meantime, we are seeing some positive legislation for labeling.”

In his role as Vice President, Soren says members can continue to rely on him to join with leadership to continue to ensure the voice of South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers is heard. “We are not afraid to keep pushing for legislation that works for family farmers and ranchers. Farmers Union is often the lone voice saying, ‘wait a minute here, there is a better way.’”

Partnering with others who share SDFU’s vision helps the organization create positive change; whether it’s teaming up with Glacial Lakes Energy, helping promote their E30 Challenge or supporting legislators working to get industrial hemp legislation passed. “We know one large voice is better than a bunch of individual voices,” explains Lesmeister, a rancher and small business owner who also serves as District 28-A State Representative. In his new role on the board of directors, he is eager to continue to work to build partnerships. “If you are able to find common ground, even if all your interests are not aligned, it strengthens your voice. My dad used to tell me, ‘If you have an argument, you both walk away with nothing resolved. If you have a conversation, then you both learn something.’

I want to continue the conversation.” ■

Wanda Artz Receives 2019 Minnie Lovinger Award

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innehaha County resident and life-long Farmers Union member Wanda Artz was recognized with the Minnie Lovinger Award for her years of dedication and service to rural youth during the 2019 South Dakota Farmers Union Convention held in Aberdeen Dec. 10-11.

At 86, Artz recalls with fond memories attending Farmers Union camp as a youth and other activities with her parents, Walter A. and Cecil Meyer. When she was young, her mom served as an education director. When they needed someone to fill her mom’s shoes, she volunteered.

“I just grew up with Farmers Union and I believe in it,” explains Artz, who lives with her husband, Edward, on their Minnehaha County farm. In addition to serving as Education Director, Artz also serves as the County Secretary, a role she has filled on and off since high school. And even though she had a busy career as a postal worker, Artz continued to make time as Education Director.

“It is interesting to see young people today develop their curiosities and learn,” she says.

More about Minnie Lovinger Award Established in 2004, the South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation instituted the Minnie Lovinger Award in recognition of the founder of all Farmers Union education programs.

Minnie Lovinger passed away more than 70 years ago, but not before she laid the foundation for all subsequent Farmers Union education efforts. As historian Lyn Oyos wrote in his history of South www.sdfu.org

Wanda Artz (left) receives Minnie Lovinger Award from SDFU Education Director Rachel Haigh-Blume.

Dakota Farmers Union, Minnie Lovinger “snatched the thorny chance and broke the trail that others followed. Her soul has never left them in their sowing and reaping.”

This award is given to individuals who have made great contributions to the success and the longevity of the South Dakota Farmers Union youth program. ■ December 2019 13

Union Farmer John & Margaret Sumption Recognized with Star of Education Award

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rown County farmers John and Margaret Sumption were recognized Dec. 10 for their support of rural youth and education with the Star of Education Award by South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) during the organization’s state convention held in Aberdeen Dec. 10-11.

“Through their time, financial gifts and leadership, John and Margaret have been instrumental in supporting our youth and educational programming and growing the SDFU Foundation,” says Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director.

John and Margaret first became involved in SDFU youth programming through their five sons: Mark, Chris, Eric, Taylor and Warren. “When the boys were young, I enjoyed seeing them get involved in Farmers Union education programs and camps,” explains John. In his 70s, John helps his sons in the family crop and cattle operation near Frederick. “I always saw this programming as a resource to help develop leaders for the future of agriculture.”

Each year, SDFU state staff and interns host day camps in counties across the state where youth learn about cooperatives, agriculture and farm safety. The organization also hosts district and state camp where youth have the opportunity to develop and practice leadership and team-building skills. Throughout the school year, SDFU provides Junior REAL leadership development programming to rural schools throughout the state.

“Supporting South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers means we support the entire family – kids and all. Our youth programming is key to achieving this,” says Doug Sombke, SDFU President. “And it takes supporters like John and Margaret to keep this going year after year.”

For several decades, Margaret served as Brown County Education Director, coordinating the Brown County Day Camps. “They needed someone and I like working with kids,” says Margaret, who worked as a teacher before staying home to raise her sons. A few years ago, Margaret handed off the duty to Mike Traxinger, but she stays connected through many of her 22 grandchildren who remain involved in SDFU youth programming. “I’m happy the grandkids are involved because the camps teach them about farm safety,” she says.

“Farm safety is something you can never have too much education about. Farms are a great place to raise kids, but they can be dangerous places too.”

Descending from a long line of cooperative leaders, in addition to farm safety, John appreciates the cooperative education provided

through SDFU youth programming. “For generations, those of us living in rural communities depended upon cooperatives to provide us with essential services,” John explains of necessary services like telephone, electricity, fuel and farm inputs. “Our youth need to learn about the value of cooperatives so they can understand why co-op membership is important.”

John adds that he and Margaret continue to support SDFU youth programming because “it encourages rural youth to consider careers in agriculture, whether that’s being a farmer or working at the local cooperative. As our agriculture industry continues to evolve, we need knowledgeable professionals.”

To learn more about SDFU educational programming, visit www.

SDFU.org. On the website, you can also read about John and Margaret Sumption’s family farm, just click on the S.D. Farm & Ranch Families link. ■

“Supporting South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers means we support the entire family – kids and all. Our youth programming is key to achieving this.”

– Doug Sombke

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www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer 2019 South Dakota Farmers Union Policy Update

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.D. Farmers Union members prepared for a busy year ahead during the 104th annual state convention. Up for discussion were special orders of business that will guide Farmers Union grassroots policy and legislative efforts in 2020. Continue reading to find a description and explanation for each special order.

Special Order – Competition Creates Fair Market Opportunities Consolidation of the meat packing industry has reduced competition among cattle buyers resulting in few profitable marketing opportunities for livestock producers. The consolidated packing industry has too much control over pricing, promotion and policy of livestock products. SDFU calls on elected officials to investigate the unfair market practices, encourages new competition in the packing industry and supports mandatory price reporting that differentiates native and non-native cattle.

Special Order – Checkoff Board Appointment Producers affiliated with a foreign owned entity should be prohibited from serving on a checkoff board. South Dakota Farmers Union calls on the United States Department of Agriculture to ensure that there is no conflict of interest among checkoff board appointments.

Special Order – Preventing the privatization of the United States Postal Service There is strong backing by the federal administration to privatize the Unites States Postal Service (USPS). Currently there are unique and unfair mandates that are placed on the USPS that account for the service’s financial losses. SDFU supports protecting the USPS by eliminating mandates and the push to privatize.

Special Order – Agriculture Education in the Classroom Agriculture is South Dakota’s No. 1 industry which is reason why agriculture education should be mandated in all S.D. schools. Focus should be put on teaching our youth the importance of ag production, ag business, ag policy, farm safety and food nutrition. SDFU calls on state officials to make ag in the classroom part of educational standards in all schools. ■ Compiled by Luke Reindl, Communications & Legislative Specialist www.sdfu.org

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Union Farmer South Dakota Producers Find Encouragement & Develop Policy During SDFU State Convention Convention Continued from Page 1

State Convention held in Aberdeen Dec. 10 and 11.

Of the skills he gained, the most valuable he says is holding oneself accountable to a higher standard. “How large is homeplate in the Major League?” he asked the crowd.

“17-inches,” a member yelled out. “How large is homeplate in the Minor League?” he asked. “17-inches,” several attendees replied. “Homeplate is always 17-inches,” Sombke says.

He goes on to explain that a pitcher who can’t throw a ball over the 17-inch homeplate will lose their position. “Homeplate doesn’t change size to accommodate the pitcher.”

Sombke uses this analogy to make the point that although many challenges face them, they can rely on S.D. Farmers Union. “Farmers Union is still about what is impacting your life, what is happening on your farm and working to make things better for you, your farm and your community. SDFU is accountable for the standards our members employ. While at the same time, we hold our government leaders accountable to live up to our standards.””

Wayne Soren echoed Sombke’s comments. “Farmers Union has been fighting for farmers for more than a hundred years. Back then, it was so that farmers could be fairly compensated for their goods.

Wayne Soren One hundred years later, we are fighting for similar things… and we will continue to fight for equitable pay for what we grow,” says Soren, who was re-elected to serve as SDFU Vice President during convention.

How does the organization know what farm and ranch families need? It all begins with the grassroots policy developed by members during this annual convention.

“Policy is why we got involved,” explains Wessington Springs farmer, Scott Kolousek, 44. “You can bring issues that impact you and the members will do something about it.”

Kolousek serves as President of Jerauld County Farmers Union and was recently elected to serve on the state board of directors representing District 2.

During state convention, he also Scott served on the policy committee.

Kolusek Policy committee is a group of members who listen to

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members’ concerns, and if there is not a current policy addressing a specific concern, the committee helps draft new policy that is then voted on by delegates during convention.

The policy that is approved by membership, which addresses national issues, is then brought to the national organization by delegates. If it is passed during the national convention, it is the policy that National Farmers Union uses to lobby for in D.C. “In Farmers Union, our national organization doesn’t tell members what we support. The state organizations tell NFU what we need them to work on for us,” Kolousek says.

“Farmers Union is still about what is impacting your life.”

Kolousek was among the seven SDFU members elected to serve as NFU delegates.

The other delegates include Gerri Eide, Gettysburg; Jeff Kippley, Aberdeen; Terry Sestak, Tabor; Brian Cain, Miller; Rachel Kippley, Aberdeen; and Amber Kolousek, Wessington Springs.

“This is a critical time for trade and other issues impacting agriculture,” says Hank Wonnenberg, 35, Dallas farmer and loan officer. Joined by his wife, Melissa, 35, the couple Hank Wonnenberg say they make time for State Convention each year because they have seen how policy put in place

by South Dakota farmers impacts positive change. “SDFU drives positive momentum.

We see a direct correlation between SDFU policy and things that happen to help agriculture, for example, the governor’s decision to run the state fleet on E30.”

In addition to policy, several relevant topics were addressed by speakers and panelists during convention. “S.D. Farmers Union relied on input from a portion of our more than 18,000 members when we developed the line-up for our 2019 State Convention. The speakers and panels you see on our agenda came from discussions with South Dakota family farmers, ranchers and ag supporters,” says Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director.

Expanding his knowledge base is one of

many reasons, Aberdeen farmer, Kirk Schaunaman, 59, makes time for convention. “It’s good to always keep learning. In this industry, nothing is the same year-to-year. We are always Kirk Schaunaman working in an environment of change and selling into an environment of change. The minute you think you have things figured out; Mother Nature throws a curve ball – like this year.”

And convention is a good place to discover you’re not the only producer facing challenges, says Oacoma rancher, David Reis. “We all get together during convention and realize we all David face the same challenges this Reis growing season,” says the cow/ calf producer. “When times are challenging, convention is an encouragement because you see, together we do have a bigger voice and someone might be listening.”

Getting together with old friends is Franklin Olson’s incentive for attending

Dennis Feichert, Brown County

convention. The 86-year-old Pierpont farmer has been attending convention since 1958.

“I enjoy seeing good friends and keeping up with what is going on in the ag world.”

Spending our time with a purpose, was among many positive messages shared by speaker Mike Oster. Today a speaker, trainer, author and Brigadier General with the Army National Guard, Oster grew up on a South Dakota farm. “We can always make more money, but we cannot make more time. So, we want to spend it on purpose – budget our time, figure out where we spend our time and commit to it.”

His message resonated with Beresford farmer, Larry Birgen. “A year like this, with so many things out of our hands, shows you that the little things matter.” ■ By Lura Roti for Larry SDFU Birgen www.sdfu.org

State Convention Highlights

Union Farmer

“Farmers Union is still about making things better for you, your family, your farm and your community.”

– Doug Sombke, SDFU President

www.sdfu.org

December 2019

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Union Farmer

Event Sponsors 2019 S D F U State Convention Sponsors

Redwood Falls, MN

Scott Lumber Britton, SD

Lake Preston, SD

Wall, SD

Tabor & Lesterville, SD Webster, SD

Tabor, SD

Sturgis, SD

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Yankton, SD

Tabor, SD

Kippley Group Aberdeen, SD

Kaylor Grain Co/ Parkston Grain & Feed Kaylor, SD

Yankton, SD

Yankton, SD www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer Call it Anything You Want . . . Just Not Meat

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OOL is the reason Gregory cattleman Brett Kenzy joined S.D. Farmers Union (SDFU).

“SDFU is a strong supporter of COOL. They traveled to D.C. twice in one year to lobby on behalf of COOL. This says a lot about their strong efforts,” explains Kenzy, who serves as Region 3 Director for R-CALF USA and runs a cow/calf herd and feedlot operation with his brother, George. “We live in a global economy. We produce finished beef under the finest conditions and safest manner. To think we can compete in a global economy without country-of-origin labeling is naïve.”

During the SDFU State Convention, Kenzy shared his thoughts on truth in labeling as part of a panel discussion along with other South Dakota cattle producers: Jeff Kippley, Aberdeen; Danni Beer, Keldron; and Rodney Yost, Gann Valley.

“Labeling is our No. 1 thing we need to do as an organization,” explains Kippley, who also serves as the SDFU representative on the Beef Industry Council. “We raise the best beef in the world. We have the cattle everyone wants, but yet when you go to the grocery store, you don’t know what you’re buying.”

Since the 2015 repeal of COOL, Farmers Union has advocated for its reintroduction.

When lobbyists began pushing for petridish proteins to be labeled as meat, another motivation for truth in labeling became evident.

In 2018, SDFU sponsored a group of cattle producers to testify for truth in labeling during USDA Food Safety Inspection Service hearings. Kenzy and Beer were among those who testified. “To keep things in perspective, 98 percent of consumers want to eat real meat. They don’t want the fake stuff. Throughout the whole process, the only individuals I have talked with who are

Cattle producers Jeff Kippley, Aberdeen, and Brett Kenzy, Gregory, share thoughts on truth in labeling as part of a state convention panel discussion.

excited about petri-dish protein are those we heard testify for it. Even vegans are not comfortable with the process,” shares Beer, who got involved in advocating for truth in labeling as President of the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association. “We figured the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association hands would be tied because they have packers on their board of directors who started investing in alternative proteins.”

Yost adds. “We as producers are battling a competitor with unlimited funding. Whoever has the money, has the means to put out the message and get the most eyeballs on the message.”

Yost’s comments were followed by a question from Kenzy, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there was a checkoff who served the people who paid the checkoff?”

Convention-goers applauded. Kenzy went on to encourage SDFU members to gain a better

understanding of the movement behind petri-dish proteins by watching the Jason Clay Ted Talk. “If you think fake meat is a threat, the push behind it is a threat.”

Although COOL advocates received another disappointment when it was not made a part of the recent U.S. MexicoCanada Agreement, there may be some policy momentum moving in the right direction with two newly introduced bills: U.S. Beef Integrity Act and Marketing Edible Artificials Truthfully (MEAT) Act. SDFU member Tammy Basel asked how these bills dealt with blended products. “USCA asked for that to be addressed through the petition process, but have heard nothing but crickets…I’d better be careful using that term because it could be an ingredient in blended products,” Beer answers.

To learn more about how SDFU advocates for truth in labeling, visit www.sdfu.org. ■

The Chopper will be run on E30 fuel and it will be taken to Sturgis this year to show that a motorcycle with no modifications can run on E30.

Thank you to North Dakota Farmers Union for bringing this to our convention! www.sdfu.org

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Union Farmer Why did you make time for convention?

“It’s an opportunity to get together with other ranchers and farmers and realize we are not in this alone. We all face challenges. It can get disheartening, but together we have more of a voice, and someone might be listening.”

David Reis, Oacoma rancher and District 4 board member

“To see what new policy will come about and visit with friends.”

Craig Blindert, Salem farmer & Crop Insurance Agent

“SDFU policy. There are three issues that draw me to, and keep me involved in Farmers Union: fighting for COOL, strong support for E30 and IMSET (Inventory Management Soil Enhancement Tool). These are all policies that would allow farmers to get more for what they produce, without a government handout. We don’t need government handouts. We need a market that will work so we can make money.”

Cheryl Schaefers, Polo crop and livestock producer

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“We see positive momentum in certain areas for agriculture, like E30, that SDFU has a direct impact on.”

Hank and Melissa Wonnenberg, farmers from Dallas

“State Convention policy development defines what we will bring to the national convention. What we say here guides the national organization.”

Mike Miller, Freeman farmer and District 1 board member

“Policy development is why I belong to Farmers Union. Because we had policy in place, we were able to testify for truth in labeling in D.C. I’m very concerned about how our policy on truth in labeling is under attack.”

Jerry Petik, Meadow rancher

www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

Congratulations Award Winners President’s Award

Outstanding County Achievement Award

Co-op Partner Award

The South Dakota Farmers Union 2019 President’s Award for Excellence is presented to Ron Erickson (left) for his steadfast commitment to rural America and rural South Dakota, presented by SDFU President Doug Sombke.

South Dakota Farmers Union Outstanding County Achievement Award for 2019 presented to Jerauld County. Award accepted by Scott Kolousek (left) presented by SDFU President Doug Sombke.

South Dakota Farmers Union 2019 Co-op Partner Award presented to Glacial Lakes Energy, LLC for outstanding service and commitment to the cooperative philosophy, presented by SDFU President Doug Sombke.

Farm and Ranch News Award

Ag Insurance Award

Also Recognized More South Dakota Farmers Union members were recognized. To learn about the 2019 Star of Education Award recipients, John & Margaret Sumption, turn to page 14. To read about the 2019 Minnie Lovinger Award recipient, Wanda Artz, turn to page 13. To read about the 2019 Ag Ambassador Award recipient, Sen. Tom Daschle, turn to page 6.

South Dakota Farmers Union 2019 Insurance Award presented to Gary Ray (right), for outstanding commitment to building a stronger Farmers Union, presented by SDFU President Doug Sombke.

South Dakota Farmers Union 2019 Farm & Ranch News Award is presented to Stan Wise (left) by SDFU President Doug Sombke.

2019 Education Awards The following awards were also presented, but recipients were unable to attend awards banquet: 25-YEAR AWARD presented to Cheryl Dethlefsen, Aurora County; 15-YEAR AWARD: Tracy Chase, McCook County; and Frank Kloucek, Bon Homme County; FIVE-YEAR AWARD: Mike Traxinger, Brown County; FIRST-YEAR AWARDS: Abby Dethlefsen, Aurora County; Gladys Geidel, Davison County; Justin Goetz, Walworth County; Lorrie Hanson, Marshall County; Heather Kruger, Kingsbury County; Caleb Nugteren, McCook County; and Christi Ryen, Perkins County.

LARGEST CAMP: Sanborn County, Pat Carsrud, Education Director

www.sdfu.org

LARGEST PERCENT OF MEMBERS AT CAMP: Gregory County, Melissa Wonnenberg, Education Director

LARGEST INCREASE IN CAMPERS: Bon Homme County, Frank Kloucek, Education Director; and LARGEST PERCENT DAY CAMP PRE-REGISTERED ONLINE: Brule County, Kayla Konechne, Education Director.

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Union Farmer Experts Share Weather Outlook & Science Behind Forecasting with SDFU Members

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s a child, Franklin Olson’s grandma told him the way to tell if it’s going to be a wet year is to look at the Big Dipper. “If the Dipper sits on its handle, then it’s not going to rain. If the Dipper is pouring out, then it will rain,” explains the 86-year-old Pierpont farmer and longtime Farmers Union Member.

Although she wasn’t a meteorologist, Olson says over the years, her weather prediction methods proved true. During the 2019 S.D. Farmers Union Convention, Olson and other members had an opportunity to learn about the science behind weather forecasting through a tour of the National Weather Service Forecast Center in Aberdeen and learn about 2020 climate predictions from speaker Mike Gillispie, the Senior Service Hydrologist with the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls. “No one watches the weather more than farmers. The weather impacts everything we do,” explains Tabor farmer Terry Sestak, who participated in the tour with Olson.

During the tour, guide Kelly Serr, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service, explained about the technology, resources and many weather models meteorologists utilize – including helium-filled weather balloons and South Dakotans who volunteer to provide weather data.

“I was impressed with the technology, but also by how simple some of it is,” says Sestak, referencing the weather balloons, which carry tools which measure temperature, humidity, wind speed and other factors 17 miles into the atmosphere.

Serr explained the balloons are released twice daily from many of the 122 National Weather Service Forecast Centers across the U.S. “All the data is pushed to super computers which interpret the data and provide it to us,” she says.

South Dakota has been collecting weather data since 1893, explains Gillispie in his talk. Based on this data, 2019 is the wettest year on record. A fact that does not come as news to South Dakota farmers and ranchers. “Everyone knows it has been wet. How wet

and how much has been wet are what are causing the big issues,” he went on to say.

Because the rain kept right on falling throughout harvest, Gillispie says spring 2020 may not bring a reprieve from excess moisture. He used the analogy of a sponge. “You put dry and wet sponges in the freezer. Pull out the dry sponge, pour water over it and the sponge will absorb some water. Pull out the wet sponge, pour water over it and the water will run off because there is no room left in the sponge,” he says. “This is where we are at right now. We’re sitting on a wet sponge and there is nowhere for the water to go.”

“Everyone knows it has been wet.

How wet and how much has been wet are what are causing the big issues.”

– Mike Gillispie

22

Because the entire Missouri River Basin is experiencing wetter than average conditions, Gillispie says we could also see more flooding. The Missouri River Basin covers a region extending from St. Louis to the Montana Rockies.

“This is the reason in one year there have been two record crests along the Big Sioux, Platte Creek and James River,” Gillispie says. “We have never been this wet. The rivers have never been this high this time of year before.”

December 2019

www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer “No one watches the weather more than farmers. The weather impacts everything we do.”

– Terry Sestak, Tabor farmer

Although his message is not one farmers and ranchers wanted to hear, he did add that not all predictions are a sure thing. “There is a chance for a drier year in 2020. If we don’t pick up snowpack and have a dry March and April. There is a chance it could be better than 2019, but there is also a chance it could be worse.”

He also encouraged farmers to contact him with questions, sharing his email address, Michael.Gillispie@noaa.gov. ■

Around the State with Farmers Union

North Dakota Hemp Meeting

South Dakota Farmers Union members and staff are making a difference in rural communities across South Dakota.

Radio Show

Undersecretary Meeting

SDFU met with USDA Undersecretary of Marketing and Regulatory Programs Greg Ibach Nov. 20 in Rapid City. Ag groups were invited.

www.sdfu.org

December 2019

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Union Farmer Roger Johnson National Farmers Union President

A

s 2019 comes to an end, family farmers and ranchers are still dealing with many of the same issues they were at the beginning of the year. Although the administration has come to a tentative trade deal with China, uncertainty still plagues agricultural export markets. Meat labeling continues to mislead and confuse consumers. And qualified and legal farm labor is dwindling, making it exceedingly difficult for some farmers to complete everyday tasks. But there has been some progress, both negative and positive, on all three issues.

Though trade assistance has bolstered farm incomes temporarily, a new report indicates that the program is riddled with inequities that have put some farmers at a financial disadvantage. Additionally, two legislative measures would work to clarify meat labeling standards and reinstate country-of-origin labeling so that consumers know where their meat comes from. Finally, a new bipartisan bill would reform the agricultural labor system to bolster the farm workforce and improve protections for farm workers.

MFP HELPED WEALTHY, SOUTHEASTERN FARMS MOST A minority staff report published by the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry highlights significant regional and financial inequities in the most recent round of Market Facilitation Program payments.

MFP, which was designed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to assist farmers and ranchers affected by international trade disputes, compensated most commodity grain producers based on a single county rate per planted acre.

Although farmers in the North, Midwest and West have experienced the greatest harm from trade disputes, 95 percent of counties receiving the highest payment rates are based in the Southeast. Even in adjacent counties, payment rates sometimes vary by two to three times, arbitrarily putting some farmers at a significant financial disadvantage.

Additionally, payments disproportionately helped large-scale operations. By some estimates, more than half of the first round of payments went to just onetenth of the recipients. Since then, USDA doubled the payment limit for row crops from $125,000 to $250,000 and loosened income restrictions, paving the way for millionaires to claim an even larger share of assistance.

Perhaps most troubling is that a significant amount of assistance has been awarded to foreignowned corporations through a separate commodity purchasing program. USDA used funds intended to help American family farmers and ranchers to purchase $78 million worth of pork from Brazilianowned JBS – more than it purchased from any single American pork producer.

National Farmers Union (NFU) was alarmed by the findings of the report, and urged the administration to find fairer, longer-term solutions to the difficulties caused by the trade war. “Trade assistance payments are not an economically sustainable way for farmers

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December 2019

to make ends meet,” says NFU President Roger Johnson. “We urge President Trump to work with Congress to establish policies that ensure that farmers no longer have to depend on outside help just to stay in business.”

MEASURES WOULD IMPROVE ACCURACY OF MEAT LABELING There is a great deal of confusion around meat labeling in the United States. Currently, countryof-origin labeling is required for a number of commodities, including fruit, vegetables, nuts, fish and chicken. However, as of 2015, it has been prohibited for beef, pork and lamb, meaning that consumers cannot identify where their meat comes from. To add to the confusion, beef that is raised outside of the United States but processed here can still carry a “Product of USA” label.

In the Senate, two legislative measures were recently put forward to improve the accuracy of meat labeling. The first, introduced by Montana Sen. Jon Tester, is a resolution to reinstate mandatory country-of-origin labeling (COOL) for beef and pork. National Farmers Union (NFU) has advocated for COOL for 35 years in order to provide more information for consumers and to allow American farmers to differentiate their products.

“Consumers deserve to know where their food comes from,” says Montana Farmers Union (MFU) President Walter Schweitzer. “Montana Farmers Union, in collaboration with National Farmers’ Union, led the fight for COOL. We are pleased to see the commitment on the part of Sen. Tester to introduce this resolution.”

The second measure is a bill introduced by South Dakota Sens. John Thune and Mike Rounds to limit “Product of USA” labeling to meat that was born, raised and slaughtered in the United States. National Farmers Union (NFU) supports both efforts and will continue its decades-long fight for truth in labeling.

NEW BILL AN IMPORTANT STEP TOWARD A STABLE AND FAIR FARM WORKFORCE A group of bipartisan representatives, led

by U.S. Reps. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA), introduced a bill to reform the agricultural labor system in the United States. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act, which is the product of negotiations between a diverse array of agricultural stakeholders and farmworker advocates, includes provisions to both ensure a legal and stable workforce for family farmers and ranchers as well as protect the health and safety of farm workers.

More specifically, the bill would make it easier for farmers to hire workers by simplifying the H-2A application process and increasing the availability of green cards and visas for year-round workers. It would also establish a program for workers who have been engaged in agricultural work for at least two years and plan to continue working in agriculture to earn legal status.

In response to an ongoing shortage of legal and qualified workers, National Farmers Union (NFU) members approved a special order of business calling on Congress to “stabilize the current agricultural

workforce” through a “flexible, efficient and compassionate agricultural worker visa program.”

“It has become exceedingly difficult to find legal, qualified workers,” says NFU Vice President of Public Policy and Communications Rob Larew in a statement. “Without a workforce, farmers aren’t able to complete day-to-day work, forcing some to simply leave unharvested crops to rot in the field.”

He added that the organization has concerns on the other side of the equation as well. “A large number of farm workers are immigrants, a population that has historically been underserved and overlooked. These hardworking individuals who help us put food on our tables deserve greater protections and a pathway to citizenship.” Because it would address the concerns of farmers and farm workers, NFU supports the legislation and urged Congress to pass it swiftly.

NFU URGES GREATER TRANSPARENCY IN BIOFUELS POLICY In light of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ongoing misappropriation of small refinery exemptions (SREs), the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change within the Committee on Energy and Commerce hosted a hearing on how those exemptions have undermined the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and the American biofuels industry.

During the hearing on “Protecting the RFS: The Trump Administration’s Abuse of Secret Waivers,” representatives from the ethanol, biodiesel and fuel refinery industries and an Iowa farmer provided testimony on the waivers, which have eliminated demand for 4 billion gallons of biofuels over the last three years. As a result, nearly 30 ethanol and biodiesel plants have halted production, stranding workers and cutting off an important market for farmers. The EPA has thus far provided neither an explanation as to how the agency determines eligibility for exemptions nor adequate warning, which has created significant market volatility and uncertainty.

In addition to soliciting feedback on the waivers’ implications, the subcommittee is also considering H.R. 3006, a bill that would set an annual deadline of June 1 for small refineries to petition for an exemption from the upcoming year’s volume requirements as well as require public disclosure of any information included in those petitions.

In written testimony, National Farmers Union (NFU) Vice President of Public Policy and Communications Rob Larew emphasized the damage inflicted by the waivers. “Family farmers have lost millions of dollars of hard-earned income, hundreds of rural Americans have lost their jobs, and rural communities across the country have lost local businesses that have contributed to economic growth.” In order to provide greater “transparency and predictability in the exemption granting process” in the future, he urged the subcommittee to support H.R. 3006. ■ Current as of Nov. 15, 2019.

www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer From the President....

Until It’s In Writing…

A

Doug Sombke SDFU President

big thank you to all members who made time for our 104th State Convention.

I’m excited to continue working for you using the policy you put into place during this convention as my guide.

When I visit with members and ask them why they are part of Farmers Union, the phrase, “because I know my voice is heard,” comes up frequently. I understand this reasoning, it’s one of the biggest reasons I became involved in this organization as a young farmer trying to make it in the ’80s. And, because we take the time during State Convention policy to ensure our members’ voice or direction is written down, your voices do guide our efforts.

The written word is powerful. It can be reviewed, scrutinized and used as a reference to hold individuals, organizations and governments accountable.

Today, as I write this, my newsfeed is full of headlines touting President Donald Trump’s victory for U.S. farmers, because according to a Dec. 12 announcement, China is going to buy $50 billion worth of agriculture commodities, including energy and other goods.

Well this is good news. After the season we’ve been through (and many are still trying to wrap up) news like this is just what we have all been waiting for, right?

Not to rain on any parades, but please take a breath and wait for the details to come out. As of 10 a.m. Dec. 13, we have yet to see anything in writing. We have not heard a response from China. And if $50 billion is a legit number, this would mean China is either increasing how much it is paying for imports, or they plan to import a lot more than they ever have. The most China has ever imported from the U.S. is $21 billion. Here are some interesting details regarding Trump’s tariff deal: • China agrees to buy $50 billion of ag products next year, increase of $29 billion from pre-tariff trade.

• Tariffs cost U.S. farmers in lost prices $11 billion. Then taxpayers put up $28 billion in emergency ag payouts (welfare payments).

So...we lost/spent $39 billion. we gained

$29 billion, really? According to my Groton High School math that’s a loss of $10 billion.

How is this winning?

Anyone can say what you want to hear.

Does it make what they say true?

What is true, is the fact that within a month, we’ll see the first of many presidential primaries underway. Those of us in agriculture need the candidates on both sides of the aisle to understand that an even bigger concern to Midwest farmers than the tariffs is the loss of gallons sold in our ethanol market.

If our Nation’s leaders could all stand beside Gov. Kristi Noem and support the Governors Biofuels coalitions state demonstrations of E30 as the fuel for all state gasoline vehicles even in non-flex fuel vehicles, it would be a win for farm country. It would be a win for all Americans because E30 saves the environment and saves lives. With E30, cancer-causing additives used in regular gasoline are eliminated, stopping the exposure of poison to our children.

With increased sales of E30, closures of ethanol plants will cease, and farmers can enjoy fair markets. That’s all we want and need. Not hand-outs, but FAIR MARKETS! I honestly hope that my cautious optimism is wrong. Trade without a trade war would be a much welcomed change. In the meantime, I encourage us all to wait until the details are released and hold our leaders accountable to following through with their promises.

As I enter another term serving as your president, I again thank you for putting your trust in me. And in spite of the challenges we face together, this holiday season, I hope you all have treasured moments with those you love.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Sincerely, Doug Sombke, President South Dakota Farmers Union

Congressional Leaders Contact information: Rep. Dusty Johnson 202-225-2801 / 855-225-2801 reid.rasmussen@mail.house.gov

www.sdfu.org

A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

Sen. Mike Rounds 202-224-5842 / 844-875-5268 logan_penfield@rounds.senate.gov

Sen. John Thune 202-224-2321 / 866-850-3855 ryan_donnelly@thune.senate.gov

South Dakota Union Farmer, ISSN 0745-8797, publishes 9 times per calendar year, with issues printed in January/February, March/April, May/June, July, August, September, October, November and December. Periodical postage paid at Madison, S.D. Karla Hofhenke, Publisher Lura Roti, Editor ~ Wendy Sweeter, Copy Editor Diane Martinson, Layout & Design

All information for publication must be submitted by the 15th of the month. You may submit items to address below or email items to: sdfu@sdfu.org POSTMASTER: Address changes to: SDFU, PO Box 1388, Huron, S.D. 57350-1388

Contact SDFU • 605.352.6761 1410 Dakota Avenue South, PO Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350 www.sdfu.org

sdfu@sdfu.org

SDFU State Office Staff Karla Hofhenke............ext. 114 Executive Director Huron

Kelli Peterson...............ext. 116 Administrative Assistant Huron

Rachel Haigh-Blume.... ext. 125 Education Director Tulare

Doug Bruckner..............ext. 118 Controller Wessington Springs

Rocky Forman..............ext. 117 Member Services Coordinator Huron

Luke Reindl................... ext. 122 Comm. & Policy Specialist Wessington Springs

SDFU Board of Directors Doug Sombke.........President Groton Wayne Soren.. Vice President Lake Preston Mike Miller................ District I Freeman Scott Kolousek......... District II Wessington Springs Gail Temple............. District III Clark

Contact NFU

David Reis................District IV Oacoma Dallis Basel...............District V Union Center Oren Lesmeister......District VI Parade Chad Johnson........District VII Groton

National Farmers Union 20 F Street NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001

Roger Johnson, President ~ Patty Edelburg, Vice President Darin Von Ruden, Secretary ~ Doug Sombke, Treasurer 202.554.1600 www.nfu.org

December 2019

25

Union Farmer

Wettest Record Continued from Page 9

break even,” says Beresford farmer Larry Birgen, 58.

Due to standing water and mud, Birgen was only able to plant 30 percent of his corn and soybean acres. Which means he didn’t use all the inputs he prepaid for at his local cooperative. Although he hopes the 2020 crop uses up the prepaid inputs and then some, Birgen says with so many farmers in a similar situation, it makes it tough for cooperatives and privately-owned seed, agronomy and grain businesses.

“This is really hurting our cooperative,” says Birgen who sits on the board of directors for Southeast Farmers Co-op. “Drive by their bunkers and they are only a quarter full, and typically by this time of year they would be clear full.”

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December 2019

Serving Union, Clay, Lincoln, Turner and Yankton counties, many of the farmer members Southeast Farmers Caused by heavy equipment tracking on excessively Co-op s e r v e s wet soil, soil compaction decreases the soil’s ability have experienced to store water and transport nutrients, it also challenges related makes it difficult for plant’s roots to penetrate the to excess moisture soil because “it takes the pores out of the soil,” explains Anthony Bly, SDSU Extension Soils Field going on three Specialist. years now. The challenges extend beyond input sales, explains Don Truhe, General Manager of Southeast Farmers Co-op. “If farmers can’t get into their fields, not only does it impact sales of seed and fertilizer, but we don’t get paid to apply the fertilizer or spray the fields.”

And the 40-plus full-time employees who count on overtime during planting and harvest also took a financial hit, which impacts the many rural communities they call home. Annually, Southeastern Farmers Co-op pays more than $3 million in salaries. “Because we didn’t have the busy season we typically do, it impacts what our employees earn and their ability to spend,” Truhe says. “We spent a lot of years strengthening our balance sheet just for this type of season. We will be OK, but other cooperatives or private businesses may not be.”

We’re in this together With his combine parked in the shop, Johnson prays for warm weather to melt the recent snowfall. Then, he hopes for freezing temps so he can get back into his corn fields. “What we need is some poor man’s concrete. If the snow melts and the ground freezes just enough, we can get this harvest wrapped up. I’m so over 2019. It’s been one heck of a year for our family and friends.”

Earlier this year, his family experienced a loss when a young farmer committed suicide. “This weather is taking a toll. We talk about the mental health aspect of it all the time. That’s why, if there are young farmers out there who are hurting, please ask for help. It’s nothing to be ashamed of.”

Vanneman echoes his thoughts. “Like everyone in the industry, we’ve watched with growing concern the impact this year has had on the mental health of producers and others in the ag industry,” she says.

Vanneman reminds South Dakotans of the resources available to farmers, ranchers, their family and friends, like the 24/7 Avera Farm and Rural Stress Hotline:1-800-691-4336.

She adds that in addition to Presidential disaster declarations, requested by Gov. Kristi Noem to provide assistance to communities and counties impacted by weather, there are also programs available through U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency.

In addition to resources, Johnson says when he needs motivation, he looks to his family and friends who are farming. “We are in this together. It’s a tough deal. Farmers are going bankrupt. But we are resilient. I think about the fact that my dad and uncle made it through tough times. I think about my son, Porter, who will be the fifth generation to farm, and I keep pecking away.” ■ By Lura Roti for SDFU www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer Thank You Doug Sombke and SDFU, My dad repeatedly told me how much he respected Doug and enjoyed working with you. Additionally, our whole family was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the SDFU in many ways. You were the first organization to make a Facebook post about Dad’s death and the comments brought us to tears. Your impact and support has been amazing. Thanks for your heartfelt support.

John Shubeck and family

Departings Benjamin Miner, 37, of Cavour, passed away Friday, Nov. 29, as the result of an automobile accident.

Order Your Own Copy of the Farmers Union Centennial Cookbook

4 Ways to Connect With Us! SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION mail to: sdfu@sdfu.org

Like us for updates, photos, news, and so much more. https://www.facebook.com/ South-Dakota-Farmers-Union277721538812/

Cookbooks are $10 plus tax and shipping. Contact Pam Evenson, 605-352-6761, ext 116, to place your order today!

Follow us for the latest legislative updates and news. https://twitter.com/sdfarmersunion

View videos at the South Dakota Farmers Union Channel. https://www.youtube.com/ user/sdfarmersunion

Farmers Union signs available Show your Farmers Union spirit with a special Farmers Union sign. Available for a limited time, the sign makes a fun addition to the farm driveway, the side of a barn or even a statement piece in the house.

The cost per sign is $10 or free with a five-year or greater membership to Farmers Union. To get yours today, contact Membership Specialist Pam Evenson at 605-352-6761 ext 116 or at PEvenson@sdfu.org.

COOK’S CORNER

Oreo Truffles

Kathy Wahle, Salem, S.D. Lifetime Member

1 pkg. (1 lb. 2 oz.) Oreos 1 (8 oz.) cream cheese 2 pkg. (8 oz.) Baker’s Semi Sweet Baking Chocolate Crush 36 cookies fine with food processor. Mix with the cream cheese in the food processor. Don’t over process. Roll into balls and refrigerate. Dip in melted chocolate. Store in refrigerator.

NOTE: Also good dipped in white almond bark. www.sdfu.org

SDFU CLIP AND SAVE CALENDAR December 24-26 State Office Closed, Huron January 1 8-9 8 10-11 14 15-16 15-16 19-21

State Office Closed, Huron REAL Session 1, Huron KELO AM Radio Show Young Producers, Deadwood 2019 S.D. Lesiglative Session Begins Sioux Falls Ag Expo Soil Health Coalition Conference NFU Women’s Conference, San Diego 20 State Office Closed, Huron 22-24 Sioux Empire Livestock Show, Sioux Falls 31-Feb.9 Black Hills Stock Show, Rapid City February 5-6 11-15 12 14-17 17 21-22 25 March 1-3

REAL Session 2, Pierre Watertown Winter Farm Show KELO AM Radio Show College Conference on Cooperatives, Minneapolis State Office Closed Women in Blue Jeans, Mitchell SDFU Legislative Day, Pierre

National Convention, Savannah, Georgia

December 2019

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Aberdeen Aberdeen Aberdeen Bison Bison Britton Brookings Brookings Brookings Buffalo Clark Doland Doland Faulkton Groton Huron Irene Irene Kadoka

Darrel Kessler J.R. Johnson Cameron Lux Alan Voller Karen Voller Tom Farber Gary Ray Beth Reams Heidi Fields Jim Erk Lon Reidburn Bonnie Wagner Mark Rozell Dawn Melius J.R. Johnson Blaine Anderson Brendon Hansen Brian Hansen Donna Enders

229-3945 725-3003 377-3876 244-7431 244-7431 448-5150 692-6735 690-3018 881-2830 375-3311 532-3299 635-6511 635-6511 598-6570 725-3003 352-2130 263-2121 263-3342 837-2144

Lemmon Marion Menno Mitchell Piedmont Pierre Rapid City Rapid City Rapid City Sioux Falls Sisseton Spearfish Sturgis Watertown Webster Webster Winner Yankton

Carrie Derschan Kevin Albrecht Brendon Hansen Ryan Leischner Ce Faulkner Mefferd Agency Black Hills Agency Kasey Keller Lewis Agency Jeff Nord Erica Steiner Sabers Agency Scott Sabers Todd Nichols Debbie Baumgarn Larry Baumgarn Jeremy Clay James Murphy

374-3462 941-0650 387-5555 996-9651 737-0463 224-4123 342-5555 343-4213 342-3585 338-5302 698-7316 642-8870 347-4507 886-9683 345-2640 345-2640 842-1556 664-2121