Union Farmer February 2021

Volume CVI, No. 2 Huron, SD FEBRUARY 2021

A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

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

NFR Athlete & Rancher

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COVID-19 Impact on Members’ Health

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State’s Largest Agriculture Organization Opposes Governor’s Proposal to Merge Department of Agriculture with Department of Environment and Natural Resources

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Ag Producer Hour

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Young Ag Leaders

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SDFU Celebrates Edmunds County Ranch Family

Photo by Lexi Johnson

n Jan. 19, Gov. Kristi Noem issued an Executive Order merging the Department of Agriculture with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The new department will be called the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Hunter Roberts will serve as its secretary.

South Dakota Farmers Union members voted unanimously to oppose this merger during the 2020 Convention. SDFU was the only agriculture organization to pose opposition to this merger. Below is a letter, issued by Doug Sombke on Jan. 7, publicly expressing members’ views. This letter ran in the Farm Forum, Argus Leader and other publications.

Merge Proposal Continued on Page 10

Don’t Miss...

2021 NFU VIRTUAL CONVENTION

Jan.28-Feb. 28 Weekly Sessions March 1-2 Policy Session To register, visit NFU.org Learn more on page 5.

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 family who makes up Lazy J Bar Ranch: John and Stephanie with sons, Jacob, 12, and Kale, 18.

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tephanie Jung used to schedule kidding for after the New Year.

Then, the purebred Boer goat breeder realized if she moved the date back a few weeks, she and her husband, John, would have some help.

“Any smart mother would schedule kidding around Christmas break when she has two, two-legged kids to help her,” explains the Edmunds County rancher.

Stephanie’s sons, Kale, 18, and Jacob, 12, are experienced and enjoy the work. “I like being outside and helping,” Jacob says.

In addition to helping out with farm chores, both boys raise show animals. Kale shows cattle and goats and Jacob shows cattle and pigs.

A senior at Groton Area High School, Kale says he and his brother probably spend more time working with their show animals than they do in football or basketball practice. “We spend several hours a day working with them. You want your animals to be calm, you want to train them and work with them as much as possible, wash them every day, practice setting them up and showing them,” Kale explains.

Jung Family Continued on Page 2

Union Farmer “We are in the business because of the people.”

– Stephanie Jung

Jung Family

Continued from Page 1

Kale credits John’s children, Alex and Brooke, for encouraging him to get into showing. “When mom and John got married, John’s kids were in 4-H. I wanted to get in 4-H and show as soon as I was old enough.”

In addition to the reward of seeing an animal he raised and trained do well in the show ring, Kale says it’s the people he has met and friends he’s made that he most enjoys about showing livestock.

Stephanie and John can relate.

“We are in the business because of the people,” says Stephanie. “If I were to sit down and make a list of the people who have had the biggest influence on my life, it would be all the livestock people.”

In addition to Boer goats, the Jungs also raise registered Red Angus. They market their goats and cattle for breeding stock and show animals.

“I grew up in the Simmental business.

My family raised and sold Simmental bulls until the early ’80s when the cattle industry changed and everyone wanted black,” John

explains. “We began crossbreeding with Red Angus and discovered it was difficult to find Red Angus bulls, so that was when I decided to raise Red Angus. Their disposition is remarkable.”

Disposition and maternal traits are the focus when John and Stephanie develop their herd’s breeding programs. “We raise maternal type cattle with a lot of growth.

We don’t chase fads. We try to stay on keel and raise good cattle that perform in the real world,” John says.

He explains that although Lazy J Bar Ranch

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February 2021

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Union Farmer

Red Angus are sold all over the U.S., Canada and Mexico, the majority of their bull buyers are commercial cattle producers living within a 100-mile radius of their Ipswich ranch. A fourth-generation Edmunds County cattle producer, John purchased the land where the family lives today in the mid-1990s.

Stephanie was raised on a sheep and commercial cattle farm a few counties over, near Bradley. It was because of bum lambs that Stephanie first became familiar with goats. “We always had a few goats to feed the bum lambs. So, I’ve always had a soft spot for goats.”

In 2003, she was introduced to the Boer goat breed and began building a small commercial herd. Boer goats are known for

meat quality.

“The main thing that piqued my interest in the Boer breed was the meat,” Stephanie says. “I grew up only knowing dairy goats and suddenly realized there is a breed of goats that had this much meat.

It was like looking at a dairy cow versus a beef cow.”

Then in 2010, she decided it was time to expand and focus on genetics and raising a registered herd. Stephanie explains that the No. 1 demand for goats is meat and the second is show/breeding programs.

“My heart lies in pedigree. I like to know where things come from and see them on

The Jungs employ an automatic milk replacer to help with bum kids. Each time a kid latches onto the machine’s nipples, the machine automatically provides a pre-measured, warm serving of milk.

www.sdfu.org

paper and mate them, see their genetics improve and market them,” Stephanie says.

When Kale and Jacob were young, the goat herd also allowed Stephanie to remain on the farm full time. Today, she works parttime off the farm as a bookkeeper for a trucking company. In addition to the farm, John also works as a livestock feed consultant and crop adjuster.

Raising goats alongside cattle works well because unlike sheep, goats are not sensitive to minerals fed to cattle, and goats will eat anything cattle won’t. “They like to eat weeds, leafy spurge, things cattle won’t eat.”

When Stephanie began focusing on registered Boer goats, the show community in South Dakota was small. Today, the State Fair goat show rings are full. “When we first got into showing goats, our cattle friends

Jung Family

Continued on Page 13

February 2021

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Union Farmer

Fewer Ag Producers in State Legislature Means More Producers Need to Make Their Voice Heard

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welve. Of the 105 citizen legislators serving in South Dakota’s House and Senate, only 12 earn their income from production agriculture.

What does this mean to the many family farmers and ranchers who work in South Dakota’s No. 1 industry? “We’ve got to do our due diligence to make sure that legislators and other citizens understand where their food products come from and that they are safe and we are raising their food in an environmentally-friendly way,” says Oren Lesmeister, District 28-A Representative and a Parade rancher and feed store owner.

As one of the 12, Lesmeister says he enjoys serving as a resource to other legislators when policy impacting agriculture is on the floor. “Those of us who do farm and ranch are always ready to educate and inform other legislators to make sure they understand the real-world impact of the things they want to pass will have on farmers and ranchers.”

Lesmeister adds that as citizen legislators, each session there is a diversity of backgrounds represented, and most legislators are more than eager to serve as a resource.

S h a r i n g Oren Lesmeister information and input on policy is one of the aspects of serving in the South Dakota Legislature Jim Burg enjoyed most. “I liked the fact that no issue is ever cut and dry. When I served, we were almost an even split, so you had to convince people in order to get a bill passed,” says Burg, a retired Wessington Springs farmer who served in the Legislature from 1975 to 1986. “When you have a lopsided political agenda, you don’t ever hear that other side, and people who are on the majority side are afraid to contest their own party members.

That is why you need the other side to contest.”

Burg set a goal as an eighth grader to serve in the South Dakota Legislature. “I can remember plain as day, we were studying the State Legislature and I said, ‘someday I want to do that.’”

Since there are fewer legislators with agriculture backgrounds today, Burg calls

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on those who work in farming and ranching to develop relationships with their local legislators. “Personal stories matter. Paid lobbyists cannot have the same impact because they do not have the personal experience.”

Connecting with urban legislators is a focus Walt Bones takes seriously. Each harvest, the Turner County farmer and former South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture invites legislators or county commissioners to ride in the combine with him. “It is a nice comfortable environment to just talk and establish a relationship. My parting pitch is that if there is something that comes up and they need an opinion, they can reach out.

And if I am not an expert, I can surely find someone who is.”

Bones says agriculture producers need to make sure their story is heard.

“If you are not at the table, you are quite possibly on the menu,” Bones says. “If there is a seat at the table, it is going to get filled.

If it is not filled with someone advocating for agriculture, it may be someone who is trying to take us in a different direction.”

Growing up, Bones’ parents encouraged civic engagement. He and his siblings followed suite, serving on the Township Board, County Commission and Rural Water Board. “We as South Dakotans have an amazing opportunity for input into how our state is governed.”

Bones lists off the many opportunities: 105 legislators, 65 county governments, 913 township boards and more than 120 state boards and commissions.

“And these don’t count the grassroots farm organizations,” Bones says.

Burg agrees. “If you have a passion to have a better state and have laws to help everybody, you should run,” he says.

This is exactly how Ryan Maher found his way into state government. “I did an internship at the Capitol in 1998, when I was in college and I fell in love with the process,” says the District 28 Senator.

This is the 13th year he has served. And as the number of legislators who currently farm or ranch or were raised on a farm or ranch shrinks, Maher is concerned about the direction policy is going.

“We are an agriculture state, so it is important that we have legislators who have an understanding of what it means to be an independent cattle producer. We

see language coming through that is more for CAFOs, but in western South Dakota we are still independent ranchers, and we need our voice to be heard,” explains Maher, who grew up on his family’s ranch near Isabel.

Although Maher does not earn his income from the family ranch, he is an insurance

Walt Bones

agent, he remains closely connected to its day-to-day operations. He says if someone is interested in serving, spending time in Pierre is a good place to start.

“Be engaged. Start learning the process.

Spend a few days sitting in on sessions and committee meetings.”

And whether or not serving in local, county or state government is for you, Maher, Burg, Bones and Lesmeister remind agriculture producers to reach out to their representatives when an issue impacts agriculture.

“We need more voices,” Lesmeister says.

“We’ve got to teach, educate and plant the seed – no pun intended.”

South Dakota Farmers Union has many resources on its website to help family farmers and ranchers share their thoughts with state Legislators. To learn more, visit www.sdfu.org and click on the Legislation tab. n By Lura Roti for SDFU www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

S.D. Farmers Union Delegates Carry Grassroots Policy to National Stage During 2021 National Convention

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olicy which leads South Dakota’s largest agriculture organization, begins with the family farmers and ranchers who make up South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU). March 1-2, these farmer/rancher delegates will advocate to make South Dakota’s policy part of National Farmers Union policy.

“Our members create the policy which guides our organization here in South Dakota and in D.C.,” explains Doug Sombke, SDFU President and fourthgeneration Conde farmer. “This is how grassroots policy works.

Members create it. Members vote on it. Members, leadership and staff advocate on its behalf.”

SDFU President Doug Sombke during 2020 NFU ConDuring the vention held in Savannah, Ga. 2020 SDFU State Convention, members voted on the farmers and ranchers who will serve as delegates: Bill Chase, Wolsey; Hank Wonnenberg, Dallas; Rob Lee, De Smet; Jeff Kippley, Aberdeen; Jenae Hansen, Redfield; Gerri Eide, Gettysburg; and Rachel Kippley, Aberdeen.

“The policy comes from grassroots – farmers and ranchers,” explains Wolsey cattle producer Bill Chase. “National Convention is our opportunity as farmers of all different types of agriculture, to get together and understand one another’s problems and figure out how we will work together to help solve these problems.”

2021 will be the second time Chase, 62, has served as a delegate

De Smet farmer, Rob Lee, pictured here with his wife, Darcy, during the 2020 NFU Convention, is among several family farmers elected by members to serve as a delegate to the NFU Convention.

www.sdfu.org

“Our members create the policy which guides our organization here in South Dakota and in D.C., This is how grassroots policy works. Members create it. Members vote on it. Members, leadership and staff advocate on its behalf.”

– Doug Sombke, SDFU President and fourth-generation Conde farmer

to the National Farmers Union Convention. And although due to the pandemic he will be advocating through a virtual platform instead of in person, he is eager and excited to participate.

“I think we have an opportunity with the new administration in D.C. to do some good things for agriculture,” Chase says. “This is our opportunity as farmers to give direction to what we want to see done in D.C. for policy that impacts us.”

Wolsey farmer Bill Chase is one of the family farmers elected by SDFU members to serve as a National Convention delegate.

This is Rob Lee’s first time serving as a delegate, but it will be his second national convention. “Last year I was a spectator. It was interesting to see how in some cases South Dakota’s delegate positions tracked well with delegates from other states and in other cases the views were opposing,” explains the 34-year-old De Smet farmer. “A certain amount of debate is healthy, as we work to try and capture policy that is best for South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers, and what is best for farmers in other states as well.”

Lee says he is eager to be an active participant in the process this year. The virtual nature of the national convention means that any member of South Dakota Farmers Union can view delegate discussions as well as other National Convention speakers.

“The opportunity for more members to see how the policy they developed and voted on during our state convention makes it into the national policy is a silver lining to a virtual convention,” says Sombke, who also serves as the national treasurer.

To learn more about the National Farmers Union Convention and to register, visit nfu.org. n February 2021

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Union Farmer

‘Rodeo Shaped Every Aspect of My Life,’ Says 2020 NFR Athlete & Harding County Rancher

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hen you ranch and have five young children, it takes more than talent and an exceptional horse to qualify for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR), explains barrel racer Jessica Routier.

“That first year that I made it to the NFR it really hit me, we have five kids. We have a ranch and all these things going on. It took so many people helping to make it possible for me to get here. It was humbling that there are that many people involved, and not really any benefit to them,” says Routier, who qualified for her first NFR in 2018.

Qualifying for the NFR again in 2019 and 2020, Routier ranks seventh in the world. During a recent conversation, the mom, Harding County rancher, rodeo athlete and S.D. Farmers Union member, talks about her family’s support network, her journey to the NFR and more.

Q: What kind of impact has rodeo had on your life?

A: Rodeo has definitely shaped every aspect of my life.

Growing up on farm in Wisconsin, both of my parents rodeoed, and my mom trained horses for a living. I was riding and training horses from as far back as I can remember.

I grew up on a farm, but I didn’t help with much of the farm work other than riding horses.

I grew up with Little Britches Rodeo Association and did High School Rodeo.

Horses and rodeo are how I ended up in South Dakota. I went to college in Rapid City on a rodeo scholarship. That’s how I met Riley. His cousin and I were on the rodeo team together.

When I turned 18, I bought my WPRA (Women’s Professional Rodeo Association) permit and kept going.

Q: Did you always have a goal of making it to the NFR? A: It really wasn’t a goal of mine. I have always loved rodeoing and training horses and loved being a part of it. But you can have a lot of success in rodeo and not try to make it to the NFR. It takes a lot of sacrifices, as far as being gone from home and missing out on what is going on at home.

I was completely happy, then I had this horse come into my life that was really awesome.

Her name is Missy and her owner, Gary Westergren, wanted his horse to get to the NFR. I didn’t want him to get his hopes up because I knew how hard it was. Then, things started happening in our favor and happening quickly. We rolled with it and ended up qualifying.

Once you have been to the NFR, it becomes a goal to go back. It really is the Super Bowl of rodeo. It is awesome to be a part of it.

Q: Tell me a bit about the role a horse plays in barrel racing?

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Jessica Routier competes at the 2020 NFR. Routier and her family are Harding County ranchers.

A: In barrel racing, a lot of your success, most of your success, depends on the horse you are riding.

Q: For readers who may not be familiar with rodeo, how does an athlete qualify for the NFR? A: Qualifying for the NFR is based off of how much money an individual wins at rodeos throughout the year. The top 15 money earners in the world qualify to compete in the NFR. Q: So, in other words, to qualify to compete at the NFR, it takes winning big, at many rodeos that pay big. That must mean a lot of travel. How do you juggle your career as a rodeo athlete with your role as mom?

A: We travel about 30,000 to 40,000 miles a year. Our family and friends are a big part of making it all work, getting our kids where they need to be when they need to be there and not having them feel neglected.

I get asked a lot about how we coordinate

everything. There is really no one way that we do it.

We live close to Riley’s parents and my parents are in Wisconsin, but they both help out a lot.

The three little girls, Rose, 5, Rayna, 5, and Charlie, 4, have not started school, so they are easy, we can pack them up and take them wherever. If Riley is not able to come with me, I bring a friend or family member.

My dad came with me to a rodeo in Texas last winter.

Our son, Braden, is 14, and our oldest daughter, Payton, is 12. They both rodeo and play sports. Sometimes I can work rodeo around my kids’ activities. But it doesn’t always work. So, Riley’s parents or mine make sure they are here to get the kids where they need to be and to be sure there is someone cheering for them.

If I do ever miss their activities because of a rodeo, it puts more pressure on me.

Q: How did the COVID-19 pandemic www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

SDSU Graduate Student Receives Farmers Union Scholarship

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armers are the answer to climate change. This belief drives Alex Michels, the recipient of the S.D. Farmers Union Foundation $2,500 Graduate Scholarship.

“Humans are the cause of climate change, but humans are also the answer, specifically farmers,” says Michels, a South Dakota State University graduate student pursing a master’s in wildlife and fisheries sciences.

She came to this conclusion while collecting data in the middle of a farmer’s wheat field full of flowering cover crops.

“I started noticing life all around me in this field,” she says of bees, crickets, harvestmen and many other beneficial insects hard at work. “That experience validated my knowledge that our cropland does not have to be the monocultures that pervade our food system. Agriculture could work with nature, not against it, and be successful. I knew in my head that farmers can change the world but seeing what they could do with my own eyes and feeling it settle on a spot in my heart was another thing entirely.”

Michels’ graduate research focuses on the impact soil health and pollinator-friendly farming practices have on farmer profits.

“Farmers are single-handedly the proudest and most competent allies of natural resources I know,” she says. “I have grown to appreciate the importance of developing these relationships and know that together, farmers and scientists can truly change the way we produce our food, fuel and fiber.”

Supporting agriculture’s future one scholarship at a time Michels’ graduate research assistantship is through the Ecdysis Foundation. The grant she is working under provides her with a small stipend, but it does not cover tuition or impact things this year?

A: A lot of rodeos were cancelled this year, so not only were there fewer to go to, but the ones that did happen had really tough competition.

Normally, everyone picks areas of the country they like to stick to. This year, with most of the really big rodeos cancelled, we were all competing at the same rodeos. And, you had to drive miles to compete for maybe not as much money.

We also didn’t know if there would be an NFR. Q: With all the challenges, what kept you going this year?

www.sdfu.org

travel expenses – she commutes 50 miles one way to the research farm each weekday.

“The Farmers Union Scholarship is a big help, and it will give me some flexibility after I

graduate to help me find a job,” says Michels, who will graduate in May 2021.

Supporting graduate students focused on agriculture is the goal of the S.D. Farmers Union Foundation graduate scholarship, funded by Traveler’s Motor Club.

“Research and innovation are integral to the future of our state’s No. 1 industry,” says Doug Sombke, SDFU President. “It’s through research and education that our state’s family farmers and ranchers are able to make informed decisions that lead to increased yields, better livestock genetics and help us in resource stewardship.”

Helping South Dakotans, like Michels, advance their knowledge to help other South Dakotans, is the reason Traveler’s Motor Club has sponsored this graduate scholarship for more than 30 years. “We believe in rural America and the farm community. Working with Farmers Union to sponsor this scholarship is one small way to help,” explains Gene Hammond, president and principal owner of Traveler’s Motor Club.

A full-service motor club, Traveler’s Motor Club provides services beyond roadside assistance, like covering the costs of a rental car or providing an income if a member is injured and unable to work following a highway or farm accident. To learn more, visit www.travelersmotorclub.com.

South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation also awards two-year and fouryear scholarships. To learn more about scholarships, as well as the year-round leadership and professional development programming provided by S.D. Farmers Union, visit www.sdfufoundation.org. n

A: Rodeo is still what I do for a living. I don’t know what else I would have done. It was really convenient to live in South Dakota this summer because most of the rodeos that did happen were in South Dakota or close to South Dakota.

Q: You have been rodeoing since childhood, what is it about this sport that you continue to enjoy?

A: In rodeo there is a constant challenge to push yourself to be better. And everyone you rodeo with becomes your family. It’s a unique situation because you are competing against these people, but at the same time, they are the first to be there and help you if

you need anything.

Q: Your children are following in your and Riley’s footsteps. As a mom, what is it like to see your children enjoy horses and rodeo?

A: It is awesome to be able to raise our kids the same way we were raised. All our children are different, and that is the nice thing about horses, you can take them in many different directions – rope, run barrels, trick riding.

To learn more about the Routier family ranch, visit www.sdfu.org and click on the S.D. Farm & Ranch Families link under the About SDFU tab. n By Lura Roti for SDFU

“Humans are the cause of climate change, but humans are also the answer, specifically farmers.”

– Alex Michels Jim French

SDSU graduate student Alex Michels captures insects to better understand a field’s insect community.

February 2021

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Union Farmer

COVID-19 Impacts S.D. Farmers Union Families

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hen the COVID-19 pandemic began closing schools and businesses in March, South Dakota Farmers Union members had just arrived home from the organization’s 118th National Convention Held March 1-3 in Savannah, Ga. Throughout the months to follow, articles in the Union Farmer covered how this pandemic devastated our livestock industry and illuminated price fixing. We shared advice on how to protect ourselves and our families from healthcare workers closely connected to farms and ranches.

In this article, three SDFU families share what it is like when you or your family member is among the more than 102,000 South Dakotans to contract this highly contagious virus.

The Kolousek Family, Wessington Springs Before extreme body aches motivated Amber Kolousek to get tested for COVID-19, September 2020 was already proving to be a challenging year for the family.

In early August, Amber discovered she had 1B breast cancer.

As she was undergoing aggressive chemotherapy treatments, the family took extra precautions that would hopefully keep her from contracting COVID. They wore masks whenever they were in public, they stayed home from the State Fair, they sat alone in the church balcony on Sundays.

But as the pandemic swept through Wessington Springs in early September, it got into the Kolousek household. “No one had a fever.

We did experience fatigue, headaches and stomachaches. The entire time we had it, I was concerned it would get worse,” says Amber.

“Scott and I know we were fortunate.”

Scott & Amber Kolousek

Kolousek continued weekly chemo treatments. On Jan. 6, she completed her last chemo treatment and had some good news. “I responded to treatments well. The doctor showed me my first MRI, where you can clearly see a huge lump. On the most recent MRI, you can’t see anything. It’s gone.”

Before her cancer journey is over, Kolousek will undergo two surgeries scheduled for early spring 2021. “I’m not 100 percent out of the woods and I still do not have my energy back, but it is nice to be done with chemotherapy.”

The Schaunaman Family, Aberdeen In February 2020, the Schaunaman family picked their 90-year-old mom, Hazel, up from the memory care assisted living home and took her and their dad, Don, out for a pancake breakfast after church. It was their 70th anniversary.

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February 2021 finds the family is mourning the loss of Hazel. In November, Hazel contracted COVID and passed away. Her son, Kirk, says the family’s grief is compounded because due to COVID-19, Hazel and Don were not able to spend time together in the eight months leading up to her passing.

Hazel & Kelcy Schaunaman “Mom did not understand why she could not see Dad. And, when it was the end, Dad was finally able to be with her, but because of COVID, she was unconscious. The fact he couldn’t talk with her is what is really tough.

Dad did not get closure.”

Schaunaman’s daughter, Kelcy recently reflected on what her Grandma Hazel meant to her in a recent KELOland News interview.

“She loved her family. She loved being on the farm. She loved bringing people around the table,” Kelcy says, adding that her grandma spent many hours helping her and her cousins with their 4-H projects.

Don recently received the COVID-19 vaccine, and the Schaunamans hope this means he can spend more time together with their family.

The Johnson Family, Groton Even though Chad Johnson never gets sick and did not have any underlying health conditions, he and his family took the COVID-19 pandemic seriously. “We wore our masks everywhere. Michelle wore one to work. Brenna wore one to work. Porter wore one to school and I wore one every time I went to town to get parts,” Chad explains.

Unfortunately, not all employees and customers at Brenna’s work wore them. In early October, Brenna and several other coworkers came down with COVID. The entire Johnson family got sick. At first it seemed like Brenna had the worst symptoms. “I had to wake Brenna up every three hours Michelle & Chad Johnson so we could nebulize her,” Michelle explains.

But then, Chad began complaining that he was short of breath.

“I feel guilty because at first I just thought he had ‘man-flu.’ I didn’t think he was that sick – until he passed out on me. Then, I knew something was really wrong,” Michelle says.

Michelle took Chad into the clinic in Groton. They put him on oxygen and called the ambulance. Michelle followed the ambulance to Aberdeen. Because he had COVID, she could not join him in the www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer Emergency Room.

She sat in the waiting room for five hours before she learned they were admitting Chad to the ICU. She was able to say goodbye before he was admitted. A few days later Chad contracted COVID pneumonia.

“It is 10 times worse than any other type of pneumonia. There is no cure other than time and prayers. And the stuff your lungs fills up with is different than anything I’d

“This is one of the most challenging things I have ever gone through.

Being able to see my wife is what got me through it.”

– Chad Johnson

ever seen. It is clear and sticky,” Chad says.

Three days later, Michelle got a call from the hospital. “They told us to say our goodbyes because they didn’t know if he was going to come through the night or not,” Michelle says. “After sitting with him for several hours, we had to go home. Then we had to wait at home all night – until the next morning to find out if he had made it through the night. It was pretty tough.”

The hospice nurse noticed that Chad’s willpower increased after spending time with his family, so because Michelle had already had COVID, the nurse advocated for Michelle to be able to spend a few hours

each evening with Chad.

“This is one of the most challenging things I have ever gone through. Being able to see my wife is what got me through it,” Chad says.

He explains that there were times he felt his body wanting to give up. Seeing Michelle each evening was a daily reminder not to give up. “I saw my share of people who did not make it. I could see the elevator from my room, and I saw a lot of people who left the hospital not breathing.”

During his 40 days in the hospital, COVID caused blood clots to form on his lungs.

There was a time when doctors asked if they wanted to try putting Chad on a ventilator.

Because the odds were about the same, and those patients who are ventilated and make it have a much more difficult time recovering, they decided to not to ventilate.

“We thought if we’re going to have a 50/50 chance on a ventilator, why not take the 50/50 chance off the ventilator,” Michelle explains.

She says it was difficult to see people around her behaving like everything was normal, and not wearing masks while Chad was in the hospital fighting for his life.

“One day I was in Hobby Lobby getting some crafts to work on while I sat with Chad at night and an entire family was in line with me without masks. They were standing kind of close, the cashier finally asked them to back up. I turned around and said, ‘You may think that this does not affect you, and it may not, but it affects other people. Right

Around the State with Farmers Union

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

Melissa Wonnenberg, Dallas farmer Making time to attend conferences is a good way to connect with timely information and learn about resources that are available.

The tax update was timely and answered quite a few questions for us.

I also appreciated the virtual nature of the Women’s Conference because I had to work cattle one of the days when it was live, so I ended up watching some sessions the next day. www.sdfu.org

Melissa Wonnenberg

now, my husband is in the hospital fighting to live because of this COVID.’” Today, Chad has much praise for the team of healthcare workers who helped save his life. “I cannot thank the Avera team enough.

They were so caring and so professional.

Those nurses and doctors were working their tails off,” Chad says.

Chad was in the hospital Oct. 9 through Nov. 20. When the day finally came for him to go home, 50 healthcare workers lined the hospital hallway as one of Chad’s favorite nurses, wheeled him out the door. Today, Chad still tires easily. He was able to go off oxygen the second week in January.

He and Michelle continue to wear masks in public and they are both eager to get their vaccine.

“I have seen plenty of Facebook posts where someone says their COVID was just like a cold or the regular flu, or that you have a 99 percent chance of not dying. OK, you have a 99 percent chance. But what happens if that 1 percent happens to be your wife, your husband, your son or daughter?

The other 99 percent doesn’t matter when your family member is one of the 400,000 deaths.”

To learn about when and where you can access your COVID-19 vaccine, contact your healthcare provider or visit https://doh. sd.gov/COVID/Vaccine/. n By Lura Roti for SDFU

NFU Virtual Women’s Conference 2021 Kathy Chase, Wolsey Farmer The subject matter was interesting. And I always like to hear from other people and how they do things. Farmers Union is a very diverse organization, and you get a chance to see and hear from producers who do things very different from the way you do them.

I attended the Women’s Conference in person a few years ago when it was in Clear Water, Fla. During this virtual conference I got to see some of the gals I met there.

Kathy Chase Even though I missed the in-person interaction, I would not have been able to attend if it had been in person this year. So, I appreciate the opportunity.

February 2021

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Union Farmer

Merge Proposal Continued from Page 1

A Letter From S.D. Farmers Union President As a fourth-generation family farmer, I have always felt blessed to live and work in South Dakota. With my three sons now raising their families on the farm, I am optimistic for their future because in South Dakota, agriculture is our state’s No. 1 economic driver.

South Dakota’s leaders get farming.

Or at least I thought they did.

I along with nearly 19,000 family farmers and ranchers who make up South Dakota Farmers Union are opposed to Gov. Noem’s proposal to merge the Department of Agriculture with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Because agriculture is our state’s No. 1 industry, we believe it deserves dedicated resources and a dedicated state department.

The current missions of the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources stand independent of one another. And because of this, these departments serve as a valuable check and balance system for one another.

For example, as the state’s only environmental protection agency, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources is responsible for air, water and soil protections. It oversees and provides the permits for livestock facilities, mining, oil and gas production, wells, water rights and air quality, and much more. The Department of Agriculture on the other hand focuses on crop and livestock production and health, industrial hemp, the state fair, weed and pest control. It is also the department that oversees forestry and wildland fire control.

If these two departments were to merge, there is the risk that their policies could come into conflict with each other. My fear, and the concern I hear from the family farmers and ranchers I serve, is that when this happens, our state’s agriculture industry could be on the losing end of a solution.

Gov. Noem recently outlined her reasons for the proposed merger of the two departments. Among these were increased synergies and opportunities. S.D. Farmers Union supports collaboration and increased communication. As one of the state’s largest grassroots agriculture organizations, we constantly work with non-members and other organizations to achieve common goals. However, when we do not align, we do not risk our members’ resources being applied to projects or focuses that could harm them.

Our organization isn’t saying the current departments are perfect or that they cannot improve. We believe the South Dakota Department of Agriculture should focus even more resources on helping producers find new markets and expand existing markets for the quality products we produce in South Dakota. We are doubtful Department of Environment and Natural Resources engineers have the expertise to expand agriculture markets for South Dakota producers.

Nationwide, only two states have combined departments like Gov. Noem proposes: Alaska and Rhode Island. Their agriculture industries are small in comparison to South Dakota’s $10 billion industry. Alaska is home to a $40 million agriculture industry, while Rhode Island is home to a $170 million agriculture industry. It seems the other 48 states see the necessity of having a stand-alone Department of Agriculture.

Tax savings is another reason Gov. Noem gave for the proposed merger. I am going to repeat myself. Agriculture is our state’s No. 1 industry and economic driver. It is a complex industry facing unique challenges and opportunities. We believe our state’s agriculture industry deserves a department whose resources and expertise are solely devoted to it.

Sincerely, Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union

According to the 2019 South Dakota Agriculture Economic Contribution Study, published by South Dakota Department of Agriculture, agriculture generates $32.5 billion in annual economic activity and employs more than 132,000 South Dakotans.

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February 2021

WHAT MEMBERS HAVE TO SAY As a grassroots organization, S.D. Farmers Union members voted against the proposed merger during the 2020 State Convention.

Read on to hear why South Dakota farmers and ranchers don’t support the merger of the Department of Agriculture with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Craig Schaunaman, Brown County Crop and Cattle Farmer I see the position of Secretary of Agriculture important to our state’s No. 1 industry. Combining the two under one secretary sends a cautionary flag.

I think back to 2013’s Winter Storm Atlas and the important role Secretary Lentsch fulfilled communicating with producers, state senators and USDA officials.

I see this role being even more important today as we have more and more of our population move away from agriculture.

In addition to farming full time with his family, Schaunaman served as District 3 Representative from 1989-1998 and former director of Farm Service Agency.

Tammy Basel, Union Center Rancher Our state’s No. 1 industry is worthy of a focused state department and secretary.

Twenty-five years ago, the Secretary of Agriculture would travel to find export markets for South Dakota livestock and crop producers. They worked to find valueadded and other marketing opportunities for us. Saving $450,000 by combining these departments seems like nothing compared to the value of the important role these jobs have within a department supporting agriculture.

The merger seems like it is starving profit, when we are not starving.

I see Department of Natural Resources connected to agriculture as more of a regulatory entity. I feel combining these departments there is a conflict of interest.

Tammy and her husband, Dallis, raise sheep and cattle. Tammy has served on the board of directors of CHS, S.D. Sheep Growers and Cattlemen’s Beef Board. www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

Jeff Kippley, Aberdeen Farmer These are two independent agencies that have completely different focuses and goals. No matter who you put in charge, it will skew one way or another. I can see this merger taking decisions out of farmers’ hands and putting into the hands of environmentalists.

Today, the secretary may favor agriculture, but the next person in charge may not and it could go the other way.

Initially, I don’t think the merger will hurt agriculture. But its like toothpaste, once you take it out of the tube there is no putting it back.

Jeff and his wife, Rachel, raise crops and livestock near Aberdeen. Together they also operate The Kippley Group, specializing in tax preparation and business services for farms, businesses and individuals.

Jerry Petik, Corson County Rancher First, I want to say, I and all the farmers and ranchers I know are active environmentalists, while others are environmental activists. The land is our property and our livelihood. I am reminded of that twice a year when I pay my property taxes.

We in S.D. agriculture need our own Secretary of Ag to truly represent us. Some may trust the governor and her administration but they will be gone in four years. The Ag/Environment arrangement will be forever! Department heads are short-term employment at best. Before now, when have we ever had both the governor and lieutenant governor with an ag background?!!!! The next administration will short suit agriculture and there will be nothing we can do about it.

As far as efficiencies, can’t staff walk across the hall and discuss common issues and find common solutions?

South Dakota ag producers and rural communities need a department head that can go head-to-head with others whether environmentalists or the Chamber of Commerce.

Jerry and his wife, Carolyn, raise cattle 40 miles southeast of Lemmon. Currently, Jerry serves on the board of the Grand River Co-op Grazing Association, the organization responsible for helping to manage National Grasslands permits. n www.sdfu.org

$1,000 Scholarships Now Available Through S.D. Farmers Union Insurance

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ach year South Dakota Farmers Union Insurance awards $25,000 in scholarships to high school seniors from across South Dakota.

“Education is one of our organization’s founding principles because it is through education that we innovate and create opportunities for farm and ranch families and rural communities across the state,” explains Doug Sombke, President of SDFU and a fourthgeneration Conde farmer.

Farmers Union Insurance agents fund the scholarship which awards $1,000 scholarships to high school youth to put toward their post-secondary education at a South Dakota college, university or technical school.

Recipients are selected from among a large pool of applicants. Students are scored based on a combination of academic record, school, community and volunteer involvement and an essay.

Since 2006, the Insuring A Brighter Tomorrow Scholarship has awarded more than $300,000.

“It is an honor to have a role in helping South Dakota youth pursue their future careers,” says Karla Hofhenke, Executive Director, SDFU. Deadline is March 1 To apply for the Insuring A Brighter Tomorrow Scholarship, visit fuiagency.com/ scholarship, pick up an application from your local Farmers Union Insurance Agent or school counselor. Scholarship deadline is March 1.

This scholarship is open to Farmers Union Insurance policyholders, South Dakota Farmers Union members or a participant in any South Dakota High School Activities Association (SDHSAA) sanctioned activity. n

February 2021

11

Union Farmer COVID-19 Impact on Agriculture Focus of Farmers Union Ag Producer Hour Series

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n the midst of helping 4,200 3-weekold baby pigs adjust to their new surroundings, Brad and Peggy Greenway, along with their son, Brent, and employee, Thomas Smith, took a break. The Mitchell farm family tuned into a presentation given

by David Kohl on the impact of COVID-19 on agriculture.

“We try to glean as much information as we can from outside experts, whether that is our nutritionist, seed company rep or an educational webinar,” explains Greenway, a third-generation diversified farmer. “It’s especially important right now because we are working through transitioning our farm to the next generation.”

Providing education and timely information to South Dakota farm and ranch families is the focus of South Dakota Farmers Union Ag Producer Hour Series, explains Executive Director Karla Hofhenke.

“So many factors impact family farmers’ and ranchers’ ability to earn a profit – weather, markets, management practices – and this year, COVID-19. So, our leadership team thought it was important to bring Dr. Kohl in to provide producers with insight into how this pandemic will impact our industry

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February 2021

moving forward,” Hofhenke says.

Kohl, an academic Hall of Famer in the College of Agriculture at Virginia Tech, is the first of four presenters the organization invited to speak. During his talk, Kohl describes COVID-19 as a black swan event.

A black swan event is one that occurs about once a decade and tends to accelerate change for consumers, society and businesses.

“You can anticipate black swans. What do they do? They create volatility in extremes; on the price side and on the cost side for consumers,” Kohl says.

Kohl outlined how the pandemic took already depressed markets and made them worse, especially on the livestock side of agriculture. But Kohl’s presentation didn’t end with the bad news. His forward-thinking talk discussed how producers should proceed in the months ahead as well as market indicators they need to keep an eye on: • economic health of the protein sector • health of trading partners • weather • value of the dollar • consumer trends and ethanol.

“Watch the Big-E. I’m a believer that diversified energy source is critical. Ethanol

makes up one third of our corn markets,” Kohl says.

He also stressed the importance of sticking to a marketing plan, even though the events of 2020 may have many farmers discouraged by the results of following their plan.

As one of many farmers who followed his plan and ended up leaving money on the table in 2020, Craig Schaunaman said this is wise advice, and important for young producers to hear.

“A marketing plan is imperative,” explains Schaunaman, a 61-year-old Aberdeen farmer and former Director of South Dakota Farm Service Agency. Like Kohl, he said knowing the cost of production and using it to guide marketing decisions is the best long-term plan.

When it comes to financial information Kohl said ag producers need to have it on hand and organized, Schaunaman also agreed. “Agriculture is a capital-intensive business. We’re gonna need to borrow money. You have to have your plan together and know your financials. Know your financial ratios. Know your breakevens.”

Union Center rancher Dallis Basel agreed, adding that he was impressed with the financial information along with a banker’s perspective Kohl provided.

“If someone isn’t getting along with their banker, I suggest they watch this webinar.

It would give them some insight into what they need to provide to the banker,” Basel shares.

Kohl discussed the traits of financially successful farmers and ranchers, and encouraged all farm and ranch family members to individually take stock of their Business IQ by answering 15-questions and scoring their answers. Once they review their answers, set three goals for improvement.

“Remember the rule of three. Never more than three otherwise it becomes too complex,” Kohl says.

In addition to managing farm and ranch finances for today, Kohl also discussed transition planning for the future. “It typically takes about three years to develop a plan,” he explains. Acknowledging each generation has a unique take on transition planning, he suggested drafting a history of www.sdfu.org

Watch Them All the farm as an important step and a positive way to engage the oldest generation in the conversation.

As he discussed COVID-19’s impact on future markets, Kohl said, “You will see a disjointed economic recovery…good news agriculture is not going to feel the brunt as much as some of the urban areas.”

He followed up by discussing its impact on trade uncertainty, encouraging producers to monitor Asian markets. And not to ignore China’s treatment of countries like Australia.

“Australia started pointing their fingers at China. They basically said, ‘the bug broke out there and spread throughout the world.’

Boy, China did not like it, so they put tariffs and sanctions on their borrowing and a lot of other products, 200 percent tariff on its wine.’”

He shared how China continues to build up its infrastructure with ambitions to become a world leader economically as well as with their military by 2027. “Don’t bet your farm or ranch on trade with China. Be very careful. It could be here today and gone tomorrow.”

COVID-19 opportunities for agriculture Kohl focused a portion of the one-hour webinar on potential opportunities for agriculture to come out of the pandemic.

Discussing how because of COVID-19, consumers realize the importance of a diversified, safe food, fiber and fuel sources and want reassurance of transparency in where food is produced, processed and distributed.

Jung Family

the board of directors for the South Dakota Red Angus Association. This fall, Stephanie

will run to serve on the National Red Angus Association board. n By Lura Roti for SDFU

Continued from Page 3

asked, ‘what the heck are you doing with goats?’ Now, I think every single one of them are showing or have shown goats.’”

Stephanie adds that a goat’s size and personality make them a safe 4-H project for younger members. “Kids can spend time working on their goats and you don’t have to worry about them getting hurt like with beef cattle.”

The Jungs say their friends are also won over by the flavor of goat meat. “When I prepare goat for people, they cannot tell the difference between it and beef. Except, if we are cooking goat and have a party of 20, all the sudden, there goes the whole goat,” John explains.

In addition to serving as 4-H leaders, John and Stephanie have both served on www.sdfu.org

He added producing food while maintaining healthy soil and water will receive even more attention than before.

“This next century will be defined by biology where the last century was physics.”

As this picks up momentum, Kohl foresees producers receiving payments for healthy soil and water. “I think this is a great opportunity to reposition the image of agriculture, particularly as we see more and more deurbanization as people are moving into rural areas.”

Farm transition focus of next webinar After listening to Kohl, the Greenway family had a lot to think about when they returned to their hog barn.

“It was pertinent information for what our family operation is going through right now, but also for young producers just starting out,” says Greenway.

Greenway said he and his family plan on sitting down again to answer the 15 questions Kohl outlined.

If you were not able to attend the Jan. 12 webinar, you can watch the webinar on the S.D. Farmers Union website: www.sdfu.org located in the Media Library under the News and Events tab.

Kohl’s presentation was the first of four in SDFU Ag Producer Hour Series. The next webinar, Farm Transition and Succession Planning will be led by Poppy Davis and held Jan. 26 at 1 p.m. central. To learn more and register, visit www.sdfu.org. n By Lura Roti for SDFU

Connecting South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers with thought leaders and timely information is the focus of South Dakota Farmers Union’s (SDFU) Producer Webinar Series. Beginning Jan. 12, at 1 p.m. (central), the state’s largest agriculture organization will host four bi-weekly sessions focusing on relevant topics and led by industry experts. All webinars are recorded and available at SDFU.org. Click on the Media Library link under the News & Events Tab. Registration details All webinars will be one-hour and are provided at no cost to producers

by South Dakota Farmers Union. To register, visit www.sdfu.org and click on the Events tab.

Series details Jan. 12 at 1 p.m. (central): COVID19 and its impact on agriculture in 2021 featuring Dave Kohl, Professor Emeritus, Virginia Tech. Visit our website to watch.

Jan. 26 at 1 p.m. (central): Succession Planning featuring Poppy Davis, a business and policy adviser to agricultural and food and beverage enterprises, and to nonprofits and local governments. Visit our website to watch.

Feb. 9 at 1 p.m. (central): Four Megatrends in agriculture – What’s Driving Ag in 2021 Featuring Mike Pearson, a cattle producer and ag lender.

February 2021: Agriculture Policy is the focus of the final webinar. The date is dependent on speaker availability.

February 2021

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Union Farmer

Young Leaders Say South Dakota Agriculture Future is Bright

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outh are our future. In recognition of this truth, South Dakota Farmers Union highlights three ambitious 20-somethings who are just starting out in their agriculture careers. Their passion for the industry, drive and work ethic are inspiring. And if they have anything to do about it, the future of South Dakota agriculture will be a bright one.

Landon Kopecky, Agtegra Cooperative Innovation Center

Landon Kopecky

When it came to choosing the right career path, Landon Kopecky’s mom gave him some valuable advice. “‘Don’t chase money. Find your passion.’ That’s what my mom always told me. She encouraged me to find what I was passionate about and said the money will come. And she was right,” Kopecky says.

He followed his mom’s advice and pursued a career in precision agriculture.

“Every day I wake up and am happy to go to work,” Kopecky says of his work as an Innovation Center team member at Agtegra Cooperative, Bowdle. “The work is not the same every day. There’s always a new challenge and I like the team I work with. We are more than co-workers, we are friends.”

Kopecky says he even likes the long hours.

“I like being a friend to the farmers we work with and being there every hour of the day to meet their service needs. We have “Farmers don’t stop at 5 a saying around here, ‘the p.m. and neither do we.” farmers don’t stop at 5 p.m., and neither do we.’”

– Landon Kopecky Kopecky credits his parents’ example for his own work ethic. “There were times when my dad worked three jobs and my mom has always worked long hours as well,” he says. “Our parents paid for what we needed, but I was taught at a young age, that if you want something my parents did not see as a need, and it wasn’t my birthday or Christmas, I needed to pay for it myself.”

So, as a 14-year-old, he began working in the foodservice industry.

Although Kopecky did not grow up on a farm, he did grow up around agriculture, spending several harvests riding in a combine with his uncle.

His family moved from Lincoln, Neb., to Aberdeen, S.D., when he was in middle school. That’s when he began hanging out on a friend’s family farm. “Being around their farm, really got me interested in a

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February 2021

side of agriculture I had not seen before and at an age when I could understand what was going on.”

At 16 he began working as summer help in the seed and chemical warehouse for the local cooperative, that would become Agtegra Cooperative. “I was hooked. I loved the group of people and I loved the principle of the cooperative. When you work for a cooperative, the farmer is boss.”

Determined to remain involved, Kopecky continued working for Agtegra after school and on weekends. As a senior in high school he interned with Agtegra in the seed and chemical warehouse while taking online classes from Lake Area Technical Institute with the intent to pursue a degree in precision agriculture.

“I loved being outside and working the long hours. Not many of my friends worked 16- to 18-hour days like I did. I take pride in that.”

Kopecky was able to cover his Lake Area education with the Build Dakota Scholarship, a scholarship offered to South Dakota youth pursing high demand degrees and agreeing to spend the first three years after graduation working for South Dakota-based companies.

While attending Lake Area Technical Institute, Agtegra offered him a paid internship working in their Innovations Center two years in a row. At the end of the first year’s internship, he was offered a full-time position upon completion of this degree.

“I knew this was the team I wanted to work with and the cooperative I wanted to work for.”

Tyler Bush Says Livestock Judging is More Than A Competition…It’s A Legacy

Tyler Bush (center) is the sixth generation to be involved with his family’s livestock operation. He is the third generation to livestock judge for SDSU. Pictured here with his dad, Scott, and Grandpa, Jim.

Fourth-generation Britton purebred Angus producer, Tyler Bush placed first in the 2020 National Collegiate Livestock Judging Contest held in Louisville, Ky. This honor was one the 22-year-old had been working toward since he was 14. “I got hooked on livestock judging hard core.”

Bush explains that like many of his peers, he got his start in livestock judging as a young 4-H member. “Being a kid from a family involved in the livestock industry, judging was just what you did.”

More than a pastime, in the Bush family, livestock judging is a tradition. “My dad and grandpa both livestock judged for South Dakota State University. But my parents never pushed me to do it.

They let me find my own place in it.”

As a young teen, he was inspired by older 4-H friends. These recent www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer high school graduates received scholarships to livestock judge at the junior collegiate level.

“I was impressed that they got full ride scholarships to judge. I figured if I wanted to be competitive, that was what I would do.”

With this goal in mind, Bush made livestock judging his focus and was driven to do well so that he would have the opportunity for a full ride judging scholarship.

“At four-year colleges, you only get to judge your last two years of college. If you think about it in football terms, instead of being redshirted my freshman and sophomore year, by going to junior college, I got to play,” Bush explains.

Following graduation, he accepted a scholarship to judge for Hutchinson Junior College in Kansas. A naturally outgoing person, Bush says even though he did not know anyone, he appreciated the opportunity this unconventional approach gave him to chart his own path.

“I was the first person in my family not to go straight to SDSU. I didn’t know what to expect, but the fresh start was exciting.”

Judging at the junior college level was intense. The team practiced five to six days a week. But Bush thrived. “Livestock judging is a mental game. It is very meticulous, very orderly,” he explains. “I’m a very competitive person who is passionate about livestock. I thrive off the intensity and pressure of livestock judging. When I get out there, my focus is unreal. I forget there is anything else going on in the world or my life.”

Livestock judging involves reviewing groups “How I approach livestock of cattle, sheep, goats and judging I believe relates hogs, ranking them based on their market and breed closely to how you should quality and then judges approach life.” must defend their ranking to official judges through – Tyler Bush oral reasons.

Through the years of practice and competition, Bush believes the skills he’s developed through livestock judging have had a positive impact on his life as a whole.

“How I approach livestock judging I believe relates closely to how you should approach life,” Bush explains. “I know how to control my emotions and be disciplined in my decisions. Judging makes me think of things in a big picture and more simplistic way. And this helps me know how to appreciate the little things that matter. When you understand the big picture, you don’t get caught up in the things you should not.”

While judging for Hutchinson Junior College, Bush placed in the top 10 of several competitions. Along with recognition, he says judging has given him lifelong friendships.

“We spend every waking moment together. The people you judge with are not just your teammates, they are your roommates and best buds. We go to class together, hang out in the evenings together and we are on the road together. Basically, you are with them 24-7, so if we’re not best friends, I don’t know what else to call it,” he www.sdfu.org

explains. “Most of us grew up, where in high school there maybe were only a few of us with a passion for the livestock industry. So, to be somewhere, where every single friend you are with loves the industry as much as you do – that’s pretty cool.”

Following his national win as a member of the SDSU Collegiate Livestock Judging Team, Bush decided to help coach the 2021 SDSU judging team.

“The biggest thing for me is I put a lot of time into the SDSU program, so I want to help this new team meet its goals and overall boost the program and help make it a powerhouse name within the judging world,” he says. “Also, I could not quit cold turkey. Judging has been such a big part of my life these last four years. I am used to this schedule and responsibility.”

SDSU 2020 Livestock Judging Team left to right : Brady Jensen, Coach, Tyler Bush, Simon Liggett, Tommy Norman, Matthew Chaney, Brooke Skoglund, Lexi Wetzel, Brittany Morgan.

When he transferred to SDSU to begin his junior year in 2019, all of his credits transferred. He will graduate this May with an animal science degree. After graduation, he is eager to continue the other Bush family tradition, by returning to work with his dad and grandpa on his family’s cattle operation.

“My great-grandpa Clifford bought his first Angus cow in the 1930s and every single female in our herd goes back to that cow.

We are one of very few closed herds left in the country and I take a lot of pride in the consistent, quality genetics our family provides,” Bush says. “Like my dad and grandpa, I’m crazy about the livestock industry and want to keep pushing it to be the best it can be.”

Cole Schock, AI Technician Select Sires

Growing up, Cole Schock spent every spare minute at his Grandpa Larry’s dairy farm.

“We lived about a mile and a half east of the dairy. If I couldn’t get a ride, I would just walk. We have pictures of me standing beside my grandpa and a tractor and feeder wagon when I was in

Young Leaders Bright Future Continued on Page 18 February 2021

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Union Farmer Rob Larew National Farmers Union President

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s a new administration takes office, there are some big rural and agricultural issues to tackle. For starters, the COVID-19 pandemic is still raging, and though vaccines are being distributed, it will likely take many months until life can return to normal. The good news is that Congress finally passed a stimulus package offering some relief to struggling Americans and businesses. However, it’s clear that the battle is far from over, and additional support will be required to keep our healthcare system and economy afloat. If the pandemic weren’t challenging enough, rural communities are also facing the ever more serious threat of climate change, political divisions, structural racism and corporate consolidation. Fortunately, the incoming Secretary of Agriculture and chairs of both Congressional Agriculture Committees have all indicated their commitment to addressing these issues, and we look forward to working across the administration to build a better food system for our members.

SUPREME COURT TO HEAR BIOFUELS CASE In January, the U.S. Supreme Court announced it will review the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit’s decision that overturned three small refinery exemptions (SREs) inappropriately granted under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

The three waivers in question were overturned because the recipients had not consistently received an exemption in the years preceding its petition. Per the RFS, all SREs issued after 2010 must be an extension of a previous exemption; the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) own data show that a maximum of only seven small refineries could have received continuous extensions of their previously existing exemptions, yet the agency has granted as many as 35 exemptions in a single year.

The four co-petitioners in the lawsuit – the Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, and American Coalition for Ethanol – responded to the news, saying that they are “confident the Supreme Court will ultimately affirm the Tenth Court’s decision.” Additionally, they committed to “continue to defend the court’s ruling and stand up for the renewable fuel producers and farmers who have been harmed by the granting of these waivers.”

The case won’t come before the court until

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February 2021

April, at which point it will likely take the justices several months to rule on it.

NFU CONDEMNS VIOLENT ATTACK ON U.S. CAPITOL As Congress prepared to verify the results of the 2020 presidential election on Jan. 6, a group of far-right insurrectionists stormed the U.S. Capitol building, vandalizing and stealing federal property, assaulting Capitol police officers and threatening lawmakers with violence. Ultimately, five individuals lost their lives as a result of the riots, and dozens were arrested.

The event, which occurred mere blocks from National Farmers Union’s (NFU) D.C. office, was a disturbing attempt to undermine the will of American voters and the very democracy that guarantees our freedoms and protections.

While NFU and its members support all Americans’ right to free speech and peaceful protest, as President Rob Larew pointed out in a press release, he added that “these acts of intimidation and terror have no place in this country and cannot be condoned or brushed aside.”

In addition to condemning the attack, Larew noted that it “demonstrates just how fragile democracy truly is.” He underscored the important role all Americans play in upholding social equality, personal liberty, sovereignty and a peaceful transfer of power and asserted NFU’s “dedication to these ideals and to the constant progress of this country we hold so dear.”

TRUMP SIGNS STIMULUS PACKAGE After dragging his feet over the exclusion of $2,000 stimulus checks, President Donald Trump signed a spending package that will fund the federal government through Sept. 30, 2021, as well as allocate $900 billion for pandemic relief.

The bill contains a number of provisions that will help struggling families and businesses, including additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program, the extension of federal unemployment insurance of up to $300 per week, and $600 payments for individuals who earned less than $75,000 in 2019. It also boosts support for hungry Americans by increasing the maximum monthly benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by 15 percent, facilitating donations of surplus food to food banks, and funding programs that help students, Indigenous

communities and seniors access food.

Furthermore, aid is available for farmers who have incurred financial losses, biofuels refineries, broadband expansion, healthcare facilities and rural mental health programs, all of which NFU advised legislators to incorporate into the bill.

The organization applauded the bill’s passage and the inclusion of these requested items but emphasized there is a “long road to recovery ahead of us and $600 checks only go so far.”

As such, Larew urged the Biden administration to “build on these efforts and offer additional relief as needed.”

DEMOCRATS TAKE CONTROL OF SENATE Democrats clinched two more Senate seats after Rev. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff won Georgia’s run-off elections, securing the party a narrow majority. As a result, Democrats will control the White House and both chambers of Congress for the first time since 2011.

With the Senate and the House behind him, President Biden is better positioned to get his cabinet nominees approved without much of a fight. Though he has already named many of his cabinet picks, for the remaining positions, it will also give him latitude to choose more progressive candidates. Had Republicans maintained a majority in the Senate, Biden may have felt compelled to select moderate individuals in a bid for the support of conservative lawmakers.

Additionally, Democrats will now chair all Senate committees, including the Senate Agriculture Committee. Sen. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, who previously served as chair the last time Democrats had a majority in the Senate, will more than likely return to lead the committee. In that position, Stabenow would have considerable sway over which bills the committee considers. During a conversation with congressional pool reporter, she indicated she would prioritize climate policy, including establishing a carbon credit system for farmers.

On the House side, Rep. David Scott will lead the agriculture committee. Scott has already laid out a number of his priorities for the upcoming congressional session, including establishing equity for Black farmers, addressing food insecurity, mitigating climate change, and bridging the urban/rural divide. ■ Current as of Jan. 15, 2021

www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

From the President....

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Made In America Directive Positive Move for Producers Doug Sombke, SDFU President

s a grassroots agriculture organization, family farmers and ranchers are the ones who make the decisions, set the policy and lead our organization.

For many of us involved in Farmers Union, the people who make up this organization are like family to us. And right now, our hearts go out to the ranch families impacted by the grass fire in Perkins County. These are trying enough times. To help these families out, Farmers Union has set up a fire relief page on our website where you can volunteer to help by donating hay, hauling hay or share any other way you can help. To learn more, visit www.sdfu.org, and the information is on our homepage.

It is because of the grassroots policy work S.D. Farmers Union does on the behalf of our members that I am grateful to see the Biden administration isn’t taking its time to implement policy and changes - because agriculture and rural America isn’t lost among these Executive Orders and directives.

I am optimistic that this is the administration that will make needed changes to the SAFE Rule so that it can be put to work for the ethanol industry. South Dakota Farmers Union is among an alliance of farm, biofuels and environmental organizations which filed a brief on Jan. 21 in objection to the current Safer Affordable Fuel Efficiency Vehicle Rule because it fails to account for toxic pollution from aromaticladen fuel and ignores the important role that ethanol can play in improving fuel efficiency as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Our hope is that the new administration will reverse recent changes made to the SAFE Rule. By reinstating previous SAFE Rules that once required improvement in vehicle efficiency while at the same time doing it with cleaner fuels, these changes would once again motivate increased blending of higher ethanol blends.

And as South Dakota’s agriculture community understands, increased use of ethanol supports many farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Why am I optimistic this will happen? Well, making changes to the SAFE Rule were among some of the first items of business President Biden took care of in his first few days in office.

Farmers Union has supported the

ethanol industry for more than 40 years. As South Dakota’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities know, this renewable fuel has opened new markets and introduced good paying jobs in rural communities. It also provides an amazing feed coproduct, and it is the healthy, clean air alternative to many chemical additives. We have worked with others to try and spread this positive message. And over the years we’ve achieved many milestones – and sadly experienced some devastating setbacks in the form of renewable fuel waivers.

Now is the time for bold and strong action to support ethanol.

I am also optimistic because of the existing working relationship National Farmers Union President Rob Larew has with Secretary Vilsack and other members of this administration. As a grassroots organization our members depend upon NFU to take the policy we vote into our national policy to D.C. Already we are seeing initiatives in place that work to boost local markets for our commodities. Biden’s Made in America directive is designed so that more U.S.-produced food will be used in our school lunch programs.

I read about this encouraging news in a Jan. 25 article, “Co-ops welcome Biden’s ‘Made in America’ executive order,” written by Spencer Chase, the managing editor of AgriPulse and son of SDFU members Bill and Kathy Chase.

In reading this article, I was surprised by the amount of non-U.S. products currently utilized. According to the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, the article shares 26 states serve Chinese peaches (including Georgia and California, which are our nation’s top peach states); 81 percent of apple juice served is imported and 50 to 60 percent of fish is processed in China.

This directive opens doors to local markets for some of South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers – think of all the burger, pork, milk and eggs used in school lunches.

A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

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

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

God Bless,

Doug Sombke, President South Dakota Farmers Union

Contact NFU

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

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

www.sdfu.org

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

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

February 2021

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Union Farmer

Young Leaders Bright Future Continued from Page 15 a diaper and had a pacifier in my mouth.”

When he was old enough, Schock milked before and after school. Soon he was also responsible for the calf chores – making sure newborn calves received colostrum within a few hours of birth and seeing that they transitioned smoothly into calf huts.

At 12 he began purchasing his own cows.

“I have always wanted to be a dairy farmer for as long as I can remember,” Schock says, explaining he was inspired by his Grandpa Larry. “Watching my grandpa manage and run a dairy Cole Schock all the years I was growing up, I learned a lot from him, watching how he looked after the cows and the inputs and outputs of his hard work.”

It wasn’t long after Grandpa Larry passed that Schock left college to help out on the dairy full time. He initially thought he would build his career there, but instead, the dairy led him to his current career as an AI technician for Select Sires.

A local Select Sires representative taught Schock how to AI and connected him with an opportunity to do some relief AI work for the company. Then, the company offered Schock an opportunity to work full time as a technician in Colorado. As an AI technician, Schock visits specific dairies daily, monitors the cows’ heat cycles and takes care of all the AI work.

During his time in Colorado, Schock began his days at 5:30 a.m., wrapped up his work for Select Sires around noon, and then spent the remainder of each day doing heifer chores for a large dairy. Allin-all, Schock worked about 10 to 14 hours each day.

In 2020, the National FFA Organization recognized Schock for

the many skills he developed through his work for Select Sires.

After an intensive application and interview process, Schock was named a national finalist for the American Star in Agricultural Placement.

Only four youth in the nation are selected for this honor.

“Growing up working on my grandpa’s dairy prepared me to show up every day, work hard, get the job done and give it 110 percent,” says Schock, 21.

He explains that he loves his work because it enables him to continue working with dairy cows. “I think they are an incredible animal for what they do day-in and day-out,” Schock says. “Dairy cows provide not only food for families around the world, but also many employment opportunities that become a way of life for people.”

In 2020 he “Growing up working on my returned to South Dakota to work grandpa’s dairy prepared me to as a Select Sires show up every day, work hard, AI technician for three dairies. He get the job done and give it adds that along 110 percent.” with working with dairy cattle, – Cole Schock he appreciates working with dairy producers.

“There’s something special about a dairy farmer compared to others in the agriculture industry. They want to work seven days a week, milking the cows every morning and night. It takes a very special person.” n By Lura Roti for SDFU

Farmers Union Insurance Provides Answers on New Special Enrollment Period PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN IS EXPECTED TO ISSUE AN EXECUTIVE ORDER THIS WEEK ON THURSDAY 01/28/2021 TO CREATE A NEW SPECIAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD (SEP) FOR THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT’S (ACA’S) INSURANCE EXCHANGES. Q: Can I have more time to sign up for 2021 coverage if I could not complete my application during open enrollment due to the COVID-19 emergency?

A: Yes, although the extension is not automatic. HealthCare.gov states, you must apply for the extra time using an exceptional circumstances special enrollment period (SEP).

You will have to attest to residing in a FEMA-designated COVID-19 disaster area, which includes the entire U.S. And you will

18

February 2021

have to attest that you were unable to sign up on time due to the COVID-19 pandemic (for example, if you were hospitalized).

While this extra time to sign up may be available to you, it is still strongly advised that you sign up for 2021 coverage during the regular open enrollment period if you can.

Special Enrollment Periods for complex issues Q: IMPORTANT: Impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) national emergency?

A: Because FEMA declared COVID-19 a national emergency, if you qualified for a special enrollment period but missed the deadline because you were impacted

by COVID-19 (including if you or a family member was sick with COVID-19 or if the

emergency impacted your job and caused you to be uncertain about your job-based coverage), you may be eligible for another special enrollment period.

If anyone on your Marketplace application lost coverage anytime in 2020 but missed the deadline to enroll because they were impacted by the FEMA-declared coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) national emergency, contact your local Farmers Union Insurance Agent.

Note: You may be asked to submit documents to confirm the loss of coverage.

Documents must show that you lost coverage within the past 60 days or more than 60 days ago but since Jan. 1, 2020.

Continued on Page 19

www.sdfu.org

Around the State with Farmers Union

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

NFU Virtual Women’s Conference 2021

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

LeAnn Moe, Alexandria Farm Partner First of all, I am thankful for the opportunity to attend the NFU Virtual Women’s Conference because if it was an in-person event, I would not have been able to attend due to our farm’s winter schedule. Farmers Union providing this for its members was a gift. And then I won a door prize, making the online virtual event one to remember!

I found most of the topics relevant and the virtual nature of the conference was also nice because I was able to watch speakers when it was convenient for me and re-watch speakers with my son and LeAnn Moe husband.

In fact, after I listened to Poppy Davis, I asked my husband to listen to it with me again because the information was something, I felt we both needed to hear.

When you have a farm, you may each do something different, but you work as farm partners. And when making decisions for the farm, both need to make decisions together.

My husband and son both joined me to listen to the tax update session. And because our son will be joining our family farm operation after college, I asked him to watch the session focused on planning for the next generation.

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

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

COOK’S CORNER

Delish Appetizers Ritz Crackers Peanut Butter Cucumber, peeled and sliced Crazy Jane salt

Spread peanut butter on crackers. Put a slice of cucumber on top.

Sprinkle with salt.

Note: Will get soggy if you make them too far ahead.

Continued from Page 18

Final Word Q: Am I eligible for SEP? A: To figure out if you are eligible for SEP contact your Farmers Union Insurance Agent. SEP is complex and can be difficult to navigate. Please do not go it alone especially if you have limited or no experience on Marketplace. Your Farmers Union Insurance Agent is eager to help you through these uncertain times. n www.sdfu.org

SDFU CLIP AND

Linda Wosje, Mitchell, S.D.

SAVE CALENDAR FEBRUARY 10-13 ���� Watertown Farm Show 10-11 ���� CCOC (Virtual) 15 ��������� Office Closed – Presidents Day 28-Mar. 3

NFU Convention (Virtual)

MARCH 23-24 ���� FUE Board Meeting 26 ��������� District 2 Meeting, Woonsocket

APRIL 2 ���������� Office Closed – Good Friday

MAY 25-26 ���� FUE Board Meeting 31 ��������� Office Closed – Memorial Day

JULY 5 ��������� Office Closed – 4th of July 27-28 ���� FUE Board Meeting February 2021

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Aberdeen Aberdeen Bison Bison Britton Brookings Brookings Brookings Buffalo Clark Doland Faulkton

J.R. Johnson Cameron Lux Alan Voller Karen Voller Tom Farber Gary Ray Beth Reams Heidi Fields Jim Erk Lon Reidburn Mark Rozell Dawn Melius

725-3003 377-3876 244-7431 244-7431 448-5150 692-6735 690-3018 881-2830 375-3311 532-3299 635-6511 598-6570

Groton Huron Irene Irene Kadoka Lemmon Marion Menno Mitchell Piedmont Pierre Rapid City

J.R. Johnson Blaine Anderson Brendon Hansen Brian Hansen Donna Enders Carrie Derschan Kevin Albrecht Brendon Hansen Ryan Leischner Ce Faulkner Mefferd Agency Kasey Keller

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Rapid City Sioux Falls Sisseton Spearfish Sturgis Watertown Webster Webster Winner Yankton

Lewis Agency Jeff Nord Erica Steiner Sabers Agency Sabers Agency Todd Nichols Debbie Baumgarn Larry Baumgarn Jeremy Clay James Murphy

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