January 2024 Union Farmer

Volume CIX, No. 1 Huron, SD JANUARY 2024

A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

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

Protecting Property Rights Takes Courage

DOJ Discusses Market Concentration

Election Results

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State Convention 2023

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utting policy in place to guide the state’s largest agriculture organization was a focus that brought together more than 200 family farmers and ranchers from across South Dakota for the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) State Convention held in Huron, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1.

“Developing grassroots policy is the main reason we get together,” said Doug Sombke, President of SDFU. “Together, we shine a light on the issues that need attention during SDFU President Doug Sombke welcomes the upcoming legislative members to the 108th State Convention. session. And we discuss how changes to state and national policy could help solve challenges family farmers and ranchers face.”

Parade rancher and Minority Leader Oren Lesmeister appreciated seeing the large number of members engage in policy discussion.

Jim Burg Named 2023 Ag Ambassador

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Farmers Union Celebrates Dewey County Ranch Family

State Convention Continued on Page 4

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The Petersen Family ranches near Eagle Butte: Cole and Carleyn Petersen with their children: Zachary, Lizzie and Patricia.

Make Your Voice Heard Save the Date for Legislative Day 2024

FEBRUARY 13 Details on page 18

rden Petersen’s roots run deep in South Dakota. According to the Family Tree of Pictures his mom, June, created long ago, Arden is the grandson of Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal member Mollie Swift Cloud Laundreau. Mollie’s family lived off the land long before gold miners or homesteaders tried to make a go of it in South Dakota.

There are two black and white photos of Mollie in the family tree June created on the porch wall decades ago. She and her husband, Alex, are surrounded by photos of Arden’s other ancestors.

Today, Arden and his wife, Lori’s son, Cole, and their daughter-inlaw, Carleyn, are the caretakers of the Family Tree of Pictures.

Petersen Family Continued on Page 2

Union Farmer “I like my cows and this land with nobody but me, and my boy, and my family on it.” – Arden Petersen

Petersen Family Continued from Page 1

“I will never take this down or move it because I’m worried it would ruin it,” Carleyn explained.

Carleyn and Cole married in 2013. Since that time, the couple has built their life

Arden and Lori Petersen with their on-ranch grandkids.

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together and raised their young family in the home that was originally built by Grandpa Raymond, using just a handsaw, hammer and nails. (In case you are wondering, Grandpa Raymond is Grandma June’s husband.)

The home was moved from its original location near Goose Creek more than once.

And over the years it has been added on to. It came to be on the family ranch six miles east of Parade in 1954, after Raymond returned to Dewey County, a Korean War veteran.

Carleyn loves making this house a home and like her husband’s Grandma June, she decorates her home with family photos – many featuring her and Cole’s children: Patricia, 9, Zachary, 7, and Lizzie, 3.

“It makes my heart tickle when family comes in and says it feels like it is lived in once again,” Carleyn said.

Cole always knew he would return to the family ranch to raise his own family and care for cattle and crops.

“It’s all I ever wanted to do,” Cole said. “I have been haying since I was 6 and driving tractor and doing everything since I was a kid. Dad taught us all how to drive a tractor by taking us out to the hay field, putting it

in gear and jumping off. …We all eventually figured out how to stop it.”

Arden said working together on the ranch with Cole and Carleyn and their children is all he and Lori ever wanted.

“I like my cows and this land with nobody but me, and my boy, and my family on it,” Arden said.

Living across the yard from her grandkids is wonderful, Lori added. “I get to get Lizzie off the school bus most days – it is the best

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Union Farmer

“I will never take this down or move it because I’m worried it would ruin it.” – Carleyn Petersen part of my day. When she sees me coming she jumps into my arms – I have to be there to catch her.”

“Daycare is scarce, I am thankful for my mother-in-law,” added Carleyn, who is the school secretary for Cheyenne Eagle Butte School. “Behind every rancher is a wife who works full time in town.”

Unlike Cole, Carleyn did not grow up on a ranch, but she quickly fell in love with the life – working beside Cole full time until the 2023 school year. Today, she squeezes in ranch work in the evenings and during the weekends.

“I enjoy ranching with my family and seeing my kids grow up and hopefully be here with their families is something that I look forward to,” Carleyn said.

Until recently, Lori also worked full time off the ranch as a medical coder. Today, she works at the local clinic one day a week. www.sdfu.org

“I think it is important to have someone here to help run for parts or help with grandkids,” Lori said.

The family raises Limousin cattle.

Cole says his Grandpa Raymond got into the breed in the early ‘70s.

“We like their meat. We are used to seeing 16-inch ribeyes,” Cole said. “And they are good mothers.”

Ribeye size, milk production and ability to protect their young from predators are what the family selects for each generation.

“When you have 100 coyotes running around in the pasture, the cows need to be able to defend themselves and their calves,” Cole explained. “I have watched a docile cow let a coyote take her calf and eat it, whereas a protective cow, she will damn near stand on top of the calf and kick at the coyote.”

In addition to the cow/calf herd, the family raises feedstuffs: wheat, alfalfa, oats and

millet. However, the last few years a drought has made crop production difficult.

“The drought started in 2020. That year we did not even start a tractor,” Cole said.

Throughout the last three growing seasons, the Petersens received just enough moisture to harvest some hay and feedstuffs.

And even though this is not an easy life, Cole, like his dad and generations before him, says he loves what he does.

“I like to get to see my calves grow up and turn into breeding heifers and then cows,” Cole explained. “I couldn’t be more happy.

I feel like this is a good life and it would be a good life for our kids to keep going at.” n

By Lura Roti January 2024

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Union Farmer

Farmers and Ranchers Discuss Grassroots Policy & Glean Expert Insights

State Convention Continued from Page 1 “Agriculture is our state’s No. 1 industry, yet we have the smallest voice,” Lesmeister said. “As producers we have to stand up for policy that supports the work we do, otherwise we will not have traditional agriculture as we know it.”

Grassroots policy is the reason Paul

Ag is key to future of South Dakota, said Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden during his report on a recent Mexican Trade Mission.

“I have been involved in many trade missions over the years, and my attitude was a little jaded because they seemed ineffective. This mission was different. … So far, we have seen a 50-to-1 return on the investment in this trade mission,” Rhoden said.

The lieutenant governor explained that 25 percent of South Dakota exports go to Mexico – of that 25 percent, 80 percent are agriculture products. And as agriculture production and processing increases, the lieutenant governor said the state will continue to look for more export opportunities.

Symens, an Amherst crop and cattle producer, makes time each year for convention.

“Farmers Union has the ability to bring people together and provide support necessary to make change,” explained the former state legislator.

2023 Special Orders focused on: • Anti-competitive Practices in Livestock Markets • Eminent Domain • Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHIMSA) guidelines • Supporting a Competition Title in the Next Farm Bill • Policy Advisory Committee for Animal Damage Control • Ballot Measures Against Meatpacking Facilities • Addressing Childcare Shortages in Rural Communities Special Orders can be found at www.sdfu.org inside the updated Policy Book.

During policy, members also passed a change to the organization’s bylaws to align with South Dakota Farmers Union policy which strongly advocates for state redistricting. South Dakota Farmers Union districts have not been updated since 1955.

Election results are in Aberdeen farmer and Vice President of

Farmers Union Industries (FUI) CEO Dale Bednarek shared about how Farmers Union Enterprises and FUI are connected, the businesses that make up FUI. Sixty percent of all profits are returned to Farmers Union organizations, like SDFU.

National Farmers Union Jeff Kippley chose to announce his run for a second term during the 108th SDFU State Convention. During policy, members elected Doug Sombke to serve his 10th term as President of SDFU; Jeff Kippley was elected to serve his first term as SDFU Vice President and members re-elected Wessington Springs farmer Scott Kolousek to serve as District 2 board director; Reliance rancher David Reis to serve as District 4 board director; and Parade rancher Oren Lesmeister to serve as District 6 board director. (Read more on page 13).

Members also elected National Farmers Union delegates to take SDFU policy and

SPECIAL ORDERS Special Order of Business #1 – Oppose Anti-competitive Practices in Livestock Markets South Dakota Farmers Union opposes efforts permitting livestock auction market owners to have a direct or indirect ownership interest in protein processing facilities. While such practices have been illegal for more than 100 years, proposed legislation [“A-Plus Act” (H.R. 7438) and its companion bill in the Senate (the “Expanding Local Meat Processing Act” – S. 4709)] seek to reverse the rule that has been in place to support a competitive marketplace. Likewise, packers should not be allowed to own livestock markets. Enabling simultaneous ownership in livestock markets and processing facilities is a step toward vertical integration increasing the potential for price manipulation and less competition.

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Special Order of Business #2 – Eminent Domain We believe eminent domain should be reserved for public projects. In the case where eminent domain may eventually be used, we believe individuals must be notified, that public hearings be held and PUC approves the permit before the start of a project.

We oppose the use of eminent domain for private industry and private use.

We support a bill in the 2024 Legislative Session to require any company to have a state PUC permit in hand based on changing Chapter 49 of the SDCL before eminent domain can be used.

Special Order of Business #3 – PHIMSA guidelines It is the responsibility of all levels of government to protect and ensure the safety of its citizens.

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is the governmental agency to protect people and the environment by regulating the movement of materials through pipelines.

PHMSA is currently holding public hearings and investigations concerning the risk and safety factors of transporting CO2 through pipelines.

South Dakota Farmers Union supports placing a moratorium at all levels of government, including local, state and national, on all CO2 pipelines until the PHMSA guidelines have been released and implemented.

www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

2024 National Farmers Union delegates elected by members during the 2023 State Convention: (back row) John Kippley, Aberdeen; Hank Wonnenberg, Dallis; Rob Lee, De Smet; Tonner Bowman, Mitchell; Lance Perrion, Ipswich; Rachel Kippley, Aberdeen; Jim Wahle, Salem; (front row): Tammy Basel, Union Center; Gerri Eide, Gettysburg; Amber Kolousek, Wessington Springs; Melissa Wonnenberg, Dallis; and Brenda Reis, Reliance. Delegates not pictured are: Darcie Lee, De Smet, and Mary Ellen Cammack, Union Center.

State Convention Continued on Page 6

Special Order 4 – Supporting a Competition Title in the Next Farm Bill South Dakota Farmers Union calls on congressional leadership to include a Competition Title in the next Farm Bill. The bill would have provisions that improve transparency and price discovery in the cattle markets, strengthen the Packers and Stockyards Act, ensure the farmers’ right to repair, reinstate MCOOL, reform mandatory checkoff programs and promote competitive practices across all sectors of the economy.

Special Order 5 – Policy Advisory Committee for Animal Damage Control Per South Dakota Codified Law, 40-3646, “There is created a policy advisory committee for animal damage control consisting of the secretary of game, fish and parks, the animal damage control supervisor, the secretary of agriculture and natural resources or the secretary’s designee, and one representative from each of the following organizations: USDA/APHIS/Wildlife Services, the South Dakota Sheep Growers, South Dakota Cattlemen, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association, South Dakota Farmers Union, South

www.sdfu.org

Dakota Farm Bureau and the South Dakota Wildlife Federation. The committee shall review animal damage control activities and provide recommendations for controlling animal damage in South Dakota. The committee shall meet at least once a year.”

South Dakota Farmers Union requests that ‘Association of County Commissioners’ be added to South Dakota Codified Law, 4036-46.

South Dakota Farmers Union requests an opportunity for in-person meetings with the committee created from South Dakota Codified Law 40-36-46. In-person meetings enhance cooperation, provide a more engaging and communicative environment, and allow interaction and a sense of shared presence.

Additionally, all groups hear the same message which ensures everyone receives consistent information and reduces misunderstanding.

Special Order 6 – Ballot Measures Against Meatpacking Facilities South Dakota Farmers Union opposes any ballot measure that intends to prohibit the construction, use and maintenance of any

meatpacking facilities, including the ballot measure directed at Superior Farms to ban harvesting facilities in the city of Denver, Colorado.

Special Order #7 – Addressing Childcare Shortages in Rural Communities South Dakota Farmers Union supports all efforts to address the childcare shortages affecting our rural communities in South Dakota and deplores any money allocated to the state by the federal government to help this be returned.

We call upon the South Dakota Legislature and the South Dakota Department of Social Services to address that only 7 percent of families who qualify for subsidized daycare services receive the subsidy. Further, we believe that the local communities should be provided financial support to address affordable childcare shortages. We believe affordable and accessible daycare and afterschool programs are crucial to the success of our rural communities and farm families.

January 2024

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Union Farmer

State Convention Continued from Page 5

During her Convention talk, State Veterinarian Beth Thompson spoke to members and answered their questions about livestock diseases.

Special Orders to the National Farmers Union Convention held in March 2024. Delegates elected are John Kippley, Aberdeen; Hank and Melissa Wonnenberg, Dallas; Rob and Darcie Lee, De Smet; Tonner Bowman, Mitchell; Lance Perrion, Ipswich; Rachel Kippley, Aberdeen; Jim Wahle, Salem; Tammy Basel, Union Center; Gerri Eide, Gettysburg; Amber Kolousek, Wessington Springs; Mary Ellen Cammack, Union Center; and Brenda Reis, Reliance.

In addition to establishing seven Special Orders during 2023 Policy Meeting, members engaged in two panel discussions focusing on Landowner Rights (read more on page 8) and Market Concentration (read more on page 7).

“Members make time for convention, so our board of directors and state staff work hard to ensure their time is well spent,” said Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director.

Reflecting on the panel discussions and other expert speakers, De Smet farmer and insurance adjuster, Rob Lee felt the time he invested in convention was worthwhile.

“It was nice to hear perspectives I would not otherwise hear,” Lee said about Shawn Hackett’s talk which focused on climate cycles, current weather patterns and their impact on 2024 moisture predictions and ag markets. “I can almost guarantee that no one else at this convention has studied solar flares and their impact on farming.

“Sometimes we can get so focused on what we do on our own farms – soybeans, cattle, corn – that it is good to attend a convention like this where we step outside our box and consider looking at how we manage things a bit differently.”

Members honored In addition to grassroots policy, many members volunteer their time to a variety of SDFU programming and activities as well as

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Mark Anderson with Farmers Union Insurance provided an update to members.

Steve Dick, State FSA Director, visits with members and takes questions.

Shawn Hacket, Ag Commodities & Climate Expert

Oren Lesmeister

SDFU Vice President Wayne Soren retires. (Read more on page 11).

Paul Symens

other agriculture events and organizations.

Throughout convention many members and industry leaders were recognized for their efforts including Jim Burg, Wessington Springs (read more on page 15); Margaret Sumption, Aberdeen (read more on page 10) and Mike Miller, Freeman (read more on page 14).

“I look at this organization and there have been a lot of great people involved, and I was fortunate to work with a lot of great people.

And there are still a lot of great people

involved and I am proud to be a part of it,” said Miller, was a 2023 President’s Award for Excellence recipient. n By Lura Roti

www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

DOJ Discusses Market Concentration with Farmers & Ranchers During Farmers Union Convention

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upply and demand drive the market. Or do they? Market manipulation was the focus of a panel discussion hosted during the South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention held in Huron Dec. 1.

U.S. Department of Justice Assistant Attorney General Michael Kades was among the panelists to discuss this challenge with family farmers and ranchers. The timing of this discussion was spot on, explained Buffalo cattle rancher Joe Painter and Gregory cattle farmer Hank Wonnenberg.

Both producers recently witnessed prices driven by forces not connected to supply plummet at two different auction markets.

“Cattle numbers are down, yet I saw calves Nov. 20 only bring $1,150. These same calves in October would have brought $1,500,” Painter said.

On the 20th Painter was just an observer. But 300 miles away, Hank Hank Wonnenberg Wonnenberg’s calves had just sold. On Nov. 18, he and his wife, Melissa, took 65 weaned calves to the sale barn.

“They sold for 300 bucks less a head,” shared Wonnenberg during the panel discussion. “If it is a healthy market, with vibrant competition, then it is supply and demand driven. But this year, supply was low, and the prices were great – until November when we sold – and the supply is still low. It feels obvious to me that at some level they are controlling the market.”

Wonnenberg and Painter and other South Dakota cattle producers are not alone in thinking that something is not quite right.

The Department of Justice is also conwww.sdfu.org

cerned.

“We have concerns about how livestock markets are operating,” said Kades, after he qualified that he is not able to discuss specifics on any on-going investigations. “Anytime people think there is something suspicious going on, we want to hear about it. We feel strongly about this and are committed to promoting competitive markets, particularly in agriculture.”

Farmers Union State Convention is not the first time Kades spoke with South Dakota cattle producers about market manipulation.

He first met with them in fall 2021 during a National Farmers Union D.C. Fly-In. “It had a groundbreaking effect on our staff – listening to folks talk about their specific problems, not reading about them, in the way that anti-trust often works,” Kades said.

“You have every right to demand action as fast as you can.”

– Michael Kades, U.S. Department of Justice Assistant Attorney General Wessington Springs cattle rancher Scott Kolousek remembers the initial meeting with Kades. “I came out of that meeting with a sense of relief that things would happen,” Kolousek said. “I have a genuine feeling that things in D.C. are starting to change. My frustration is at the speed of it.”

After hearing Kolousek’s comments, Kades emphasized the impact of advocacy.

“You have every right to demand action as fast as you can,” Kades said. “The old adage about more pressure is true in Washington, the squeaky wheel often gets the grease.”

And although Kades could not comment on investigations into the packers that are

underway, Parade rancher and the panel moderator Oren Lesmeister said he knows the Department of Justice is investigating.

“I have had calls from DOJ agents in Chicago asking questions,” Lesmeister said.

“They are investigating this.”

Wonnenberg said he appreciated the opportunity to speak directly to the Department of Justice.

“I thought having him available and open for questions on the floor, where we could share our stories and voice our concerns and explain what we are going through was such an awesome opportunity,” Wonnenberg said. “And the way it was received by Michael, to me, it did not seem he was surprised by what we had to say. It seemed he was glad to hear the reinforcement of what he knows.”

Ahead of the Dec. 1 panel discussion, Kades toured the Doug Sombke Mitchell sale barn and on Dec. 2 he visited a couple Jerauld County feedlots.

“He cares about doing his job thoroughly and fairly. That is why he was doing what he is doing, he has never been around anything like a sale barn or a feedlot and he wanted to know what they were like,” said Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union. “He is the right guy for the job because he cares about doing what is right. He cares about the average family farmer.”

Kolousek agreed, “After hearing from Kades, I felt reassured.”

In addition to Kades, Lesmeister and Kolousek, Scott Blubaugh, President of American Farmers & Ranchers, also served on the panel. n By Lura Roti January 2024

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Union Farmer

Protecting Property Rights Takes Courage & Advocacy

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ounty Commissioners have the power to protect landowner rights. It requires bravery. And if you think your land is not in danger of private interests using eminent domain to lay claim to it – just wait.

These were the messages shared by panelists to a packed convention hall during the Landowner Rights panel discussion held in Huron during the South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention Nov. 30.

“Ultimately, this all comes down to you on the ground. And it comes down to courage,” said Brian Jorde, Managing Lawyer, Domina Law Group. “Last session legislators did not have courage. For those of you who have not been active on this, we need you because you are next. If slow but steady erosion of property rights is not confronted, you will be next.”

Jorde was joined by Suzanne Smith, Spink County Commissioner; Drew Dennert, Brown County Commissioner; and Curt Soehl, Sioux Falls City Councilor.

“The panelists did an outstandBrian Jorde ing job expressing the intimidation these county commissions had to go through to protect their landowners – but the ordinances worked. They were upheld by the Public Utilities Commission,” said Ed Fischbach, a fourth-generation Mellette crop and cattle farmer who has been advocating for property rights since receiving a survey notice letter from Summit Carbon Solutions in July 2021.

The ordinances Fischbach references were established by county commissions and put setbacks in place that restrict how close a CO2 pipeline can be to residences and high concentration areas such as schools and roadways.

Today, only five South Dakota counties have ordinances in place. More need to follow suit said Smith who has served as a Spink County Commissioner since 2017.

She urges other counties to pass ordinances because they protect property owners and citizens of the county.

“We were harassed from the very beginning on this from Summit, ‘we are going to sue you, we will sue you.’ ‘That’s fine, go ahead and sue us.’ And they did,” Smith said.

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Spink County Commissioner Suzanne Smith encourages other county governments to establish ordinances to protect property rights and citizens. She was among a group of panelists to speak on a Taking Back Landowners’ Rights panel during the South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention.

Other panelists include (left to right) Drew Dennert, Brown County Commissioner; Curt Soehl, Sioux Falls City Councilor; Mitch Richter, moderator; and Brian Jorde, attorney Domina Law Group (participated remotely.)

Smith shared that when a chair of another county commission told her she was brave for writing the ordinance, she said, “There’s nothing brave about doing the right thing.”

The other counties that have similar ordinances are: Brown, McPherson, Moody and Minnehaha. To view Spink County Hazardous Liquid Pipelines ordinance, it is on the homepage of the county website www. spinkcounty-sd.org.

Safety of rural citizens is a concern Using eminent domain for private gain goes against landowner rights policy established by South Dakota Farmers Union members decades ago, said Doug Sombke, President of the organization. And because current state laws do not fully protect private property rights, Sombke encourages county governments to step up to protect landowners’ rights.

“Every problem that we face is local. The one way to stop this and keep our families safe is if county commissions across South Dakota pass ordinances to make it safe for their citizens,” Sombke said.

In addition to violating property rights, safety of a CO2 pipeline was another concern discussed.

“My concern would not be for the City of Sioux Falls, who has one of the top 37 fire departments in the country. I don’t know what a rural volunteer fire department would do …We all know they (CO2 pipelines) are very dangerous if they were to erupt. If you have a rural fire department that is taking care of these pipelines, I would be very concerned for safety of the crews or the residents,” said Soehl, who served 20 years on Sioux Falls Fire Department and was captain in the Hazardous Materials Unit.

Safety is also a concern expressed by Fischbach. “This pipeline is only buried 4 feet in the ground. How many of us have buried our combines more than 4 feet in a wet year?

And if you hit it, you are done,” said Fischbach referencing the fact that if a CO2 pipeline springs a leak, the result is much different than a natural gas or fuel pipeline. “The gas will asphyxiant you – you will not be able to Scan to hear news story of CO2 pipeline leak.

www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer breath. This is the testimony I heard from first responders to a CO2 leak in Mississippi.”

Safety concerns are among the reasons Ipswich farmers Lance and Sarah Perrion called on their county commissioners to establish an ordinance a while back.

“When we asked what the county would do to protect us from a leak, they said it would be our responsibility,” explained Sarah Perrion.

“So, they expect my kindergartener to carry a gas mask to school?”

While the Perrions wait for Edmunds County to implement an ordinance, they join a growing number of rural citizens willing to show up to support South Dakotans First. It’s the nonpartisan coalition South Dakota Farmers Union helped launch in October of 2023.

South Dakotans First is dedicated to safeguarding and upholding the property rights of individuals against the encroachment and profit-seeking actions of corporations. The bottom line is no eminent domain for private gain.

Yankton farmers David and Ione Cap are grateful that something is being done to help protect the land that has been in David’s family for more than a century.

“The ground that our cattle graze today was cared for by my forefathers who had it before me. They took good care of it,” said Cap, 82.

“I have taken good care of it and I hope that when I pass it on to our grandchildren it is in even better shape than when it was passed to me.”

To learn more about South Dakotans First, visit www.southdakotansfirst.com. And to learn more about how South Dakota Farmers Union supports family farmers, ranchers and rural communities, visit www.sdfu.org. n By Lura Roti

Around the State with Farmers Union South Dakota Farmers Union members and staff are making a difference in rural communities across South Dakota. www.sdfu.org

SAFETY TRAILER CHAMBERLAIN

DOOR PRIZE WINNER

Audrey Keierleber’s name was drawn during State Convention and she wins the 2024 Polaris Sportsman!

January 2024

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Union Farmer

Brown County Volunteer Receives Minnie Lovinger Award

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ducating youth is something Margaret Sumption has been passionate about most of her life.

“I have always enjoyed kids, and as a teacher I found that they are generally happy and certainly every day is different,” Sumption explains.

Sumption was recognized by South Dakota Farmers Union for her service to rural youth as a volunteer with the esteemed Minnie Lovinger Award. She served as the Brown County Education Director for several years.

She was presented with the award Nov. 30, during an awards banquet held during the South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention in Huron.

“Thanks to the efforts of volunteers like Margaret, each summer hundreds of rural youth attend camps where they receive education on farm safety, team work, cooperatives and have the opportunity to develop leadership skills,” said Karla Hofhenke, Executive Director of South Dakota Farmers Union.

More about Margaret Sumption Sumption decided to become a teacher because she always enjoyed school and her teachers. She taught grade school for a few years before she and her husband, John, had children of their own.

When her five sons were school age, Margaret substitute taught and later returned to work in the Frederick Area School District full time as a paraprofessional and then served as the school secretary until she retired in 2001.

“John came home from a county meeting one day and said, ‘Margaret, you are the new education director.’ I said, ‘OK.’” – Margaret Sumption Raising their sons on the family farm, Margaret and her husband, John, were always in church and active in the Frederick community. And because of her farming background, Sumption said she looked for ways to expose students to agriculture beyond Brown County.

“I always told students, farmers across America don’t just raise corn, cows, wheat and soybeans. You eat strawberries and lettuce too. Farmers had to grow that too.”

About the time their youngest son, Warren, graduated, the couple became more in-

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Margaret Sumption is pictured here with Aeriel Eitreim (left), Senior Advisory Council member from Sioux Falls, and Cadence Konechne, (right) Jr. Junior Advisory Council member from Kimball.

volved in Farmers Union.

“John came home from a county meeting one day and said, ‘Margaret, you are the new education director.’ I said, ‘OK.’” Throughout the years, Margaret said she appreciated the way Farmers Union youth programming taught rural kids about so many aspects of agriculture.

“Farmers Union helped broaden their horizons. It helped them realize that each farm and farmer is unique,” she said.

One by one, all five of their sons joined the family farming operation. Margaret said she enjoyed having her grandchildren close to home and getting to be involved their lives.

“All our grandchildren attended Farmers Union Camp. It was fun to see them with other kids and make friends,” she said.

Today, Farmers Union member Mike Traxinger serves as the Brown County Education Director. Sumption asked him to take over for

her when he returned to his family’s Brown County farm. “He has done a great job and expanded the program even more,” she said.

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 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.”

To learn more about South Dakota Farmers Union youth programming, visit www. sdfu.org. n By Lura Roti www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

Wayne Soren Passes Vice Presidential Torch to Next Generation

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ince 2010, Lake Preston farmer Wayne Soren, has helped lead the state’s largest agriculture organization serving as Vice President of South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU).

During the organization’s 108th State Convention, Soren passed the torch on to Aberdeen farmer Jeff Kippley, 44.

“I think we have a lot of dynamic young leaders in our organization who can step up and move our organization into the future. This is one of the reasons I am stepping down,” explained Soren, who raises crops and cattle near Lake Preston. “I have all the confidence in the world in Jeff and believe he will do a great job.”

Throughout his years of service, among the things Soren became known for is his cooperative loyalty, explained SDFU President Doug Sombke. Sombke said Soren worked hard to support cooperatives and development of cooperatives throughout the state.

“Wayne is a big believer in the cooperative business model which is truly a community business model because everyone who does business there owns it,” Sombke explained.

Soren will remain South Dakota Farmers Union representative to the South Dakota www.sdfu.org

Value-Added Agriculture Development Center.

In addition to supporting cooperative development throughout the state, Soren worked tirelessly to advocate for SDFU grassroots policy.

“Serving on the policy committee and advocating for the policy our members establish is among the most rewarding work I have done with Farmers Union.”

– Wayne Soren “Serving on the policy committee and advocating for the policy our members establish is among the most rewarding work I have done with Farmers Union,” Soren said. “If you want to understand what our organization stands for and where we are going and what we plan to do, get to know our policy.”

Sombke and Soren met as young producers. They were both asked to serve on a Farmers Union panel discussing the challenges they faced.

They were young farmers and fathers. It was the Farm Crisis of the 1980s. Soren said they became immediate friends.

“We were talking about the problems that young producers had during the Farm Crisis. It was just like we were looking in the mirror,” Soren said. “I would say something and he would say, ‘yeah that is what I believe.’ Doug would say something, and it was what I was thinking. We have been friends for 35 years.”

A third-generation Kingsbury County farmer, Soren became involved in Farmers Union during the Farm Crisis. And after the crisis he remained involved because he believes in Farmers Union’s philosophies.

“I believe in co-ops. I believe in family farmers and helping local communities. I believe in grassroots policy. And there is virtually no other organization that encompasses all those in the way that Farmers Union does,” Soren said. “I felt like because these are my beliefs, I probably should act on them and do my best to promote those beliefs.”

Soren has traveled to Washington, D.C., several times to advocate for policy during the National Farmers Union Fly-In. He served on the organization’s policy committee. He began serving on the board of directors in 1999 representing District 3. And in 2010, he was asked to serve as the organization’s vice president alongside his friend, Doug Sombke.

Throughout his nearly two decades of service, Soren has advocated for South Dakota farmers and ranchers during some dark times: cattle crisis, trade tariffs, droughts, Storm Atlas, floods.

And he’s also celebrated victories. He worked with the organization to support ethanol expansion throughout the state, investment in South Dakota Wind Partners and helped lead a re-organization of Farmers Union Insurance.

Farmers Union educational programming is another aspect of the organization Soren has actively supported. “Since we became involved in Farmers Union, Vicki and I have been supporters of its educational programming. Our sons, Jason and Ryan were Torchbearers. They served on the Junior and Senior Advisory Councils,” Soren said.

In the 1990s the Soren family was recognized by the organization for their involvement and named Farmers Union Farm Family of the Year. “I am grateful to Vicki and our sons for all the support they have given me so that I could be as involved as I have been

Soren Retires Continued on Page 17 January 2024

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Union Farmer

12 January 2024

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Union Farmer

2023 Election Results

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oug Sombke was elected Sombke to serve South Dakota to serve his 10th term as farm and ranch families,” Kippley President of South Dakota said.

Farmers Union Dec. 1 making the Kippley decided to put his fourth-generation Brown County name on the ballot after Lake farmer among the longest serving Preston farmer Wayne Soren made the decision not to run for Presidents of South Dakota’s larganother term. Soren has served as est agriculture organization.

Vice President since 2010.

“It is an honor to serve South “I have all the confidence in Dakota’s family farmers and the world in Jeff and believe he ranchers,” Sombke said. “Guided will do a great job,” explained by our grassroots policy, together Soren, who raises crops and cattle. we have made unbelievable Newly elected SDFU Vice President Jeff Kippley takes the oath of office “Jeff is among a group of dynamic strides. But there is more work to from SDFU President Doug Sombke. Kippley is an Aberdeen farmer and also young leaders involved in our orbe done and I am hoping to see a serves as NFU Vice President. ganization who are willing to step few more policy items across the up and move our organization finish line.” policy-driven focuses Sombke will continue into the future. This is one of the reasons I Breaking up packer monopolies, reinadvocating for together with a memberchose to step down.” statement of Mandatory Country-of-Origin elected board of directors, staff and more Although Soren will not serve another Labeling (MCOOL) and strengthening South than 20,000 farmer/rancher members. term as Vice President, he will remain a FarmDakota’s property rights laws by working Jeff Kippley is new Vice President ers Union representative on some industry with South Dakotans First are among the During the election held during South Daboards. Kippley said he is grateful Soren will kota Farmers Union 108th State Convenremain actively involved in South Dakota tion, Aberdeen farmer Jeff Kippley was Farmers Union. elected to serve his first term as South “Wayne leaves big shoes to fill,” Kippley Dakota Farmers Union Vice President. said. “He has been a great Vice President for Kippley currently serves as National our organization, and I am glad he will still be Farmers Union Vice President. around for me to pick his brain on issues and “I am looking forward to this opScott Kolousek David Reis Oren Lesmeister portunity to work with my friend Doug District 2

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District 4

District 6

Re-Elected Continued on Page 15

January 2024

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Union Farmer

South Dakota Farmers Union 2023 Awards South Dakota Farmers Union recognizes South Dakotans and organizations who give of their time and talents to support family farmers and ranchers throughout the state. In 2023 we recognize and thank these individuals.

Farm & Ranch News Award, Bill Zortman

Co-op Partner Award, Farmers Union Oil Company of Ellendale, N.D., award accepted by John Sumption

President’s Award for Excellence, Mike Miller

President’s Award for Excellence, Wayne Soren

Star of Education Award, Terry Sestak

Outstanding County Award, Ziebach/Dewey Counties, Oren Lesmeister accepts award

5-Year Education Award & Largest Increase 2022, Melissa Wonnenberg – Gregory County

5-Year Education Award 2022, Janet Kolousek – Jerauld County

15-Year Education Awards 2022, Deanna Bindenagel – Spink County and Jason Frerichs – Roberts County

30-Year Education Award 2022, Denise Mushitz – Charles Mix County

Largest Camp 2022 & 2023, Ione Cap, Yankton County

Largest County Presence at State Camp – Meade County award accepted by Dallis Basel

5-Year Award 2023, Lorrie Hanson – Marshall County

Also recognized but not pictured: 40-Year Education Award – 2022 – Wanda Artz – Minnehaha County; 15-Year Awards – 2023 Tamie Fahrenholz, District 5; Largest Percent Members – 2022: Meade/Pennington Counties – Shilo Lamont; and 1-Year Award – 2023 – Gina Schnabel, Hutchinson County; Outstanding Insurance Agent Award, David Schelske.

15-Year Award 2023, Audrey 25-Year Award 2023, Carol Keierleber – Tripp County Oberbroekling – Charles Mix County

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January 2024

Largest County Presence at Junior State Camp – Brown County, award accepted by Chad Johnson

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Union Farmer Farmers Union Names Jerauld County Farmer Agriculture Ambassador

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outh Dakota Farmers Union named Jerauld County farmer and life-long public servant Jim Burg the 2023 Ag Ambassador in recognition of his leadership and dedication to South Dakota agriculture and rural communities.

“If Webster’s Dictionary had an image of what a civil servant looked like, it would be a photo of Jim Burg. He is the example of who a civil servant should be,” said Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union.

“Jim does what is right for those he serves, not himself.”

Sombke presented the Ag Ambassador Award to Burg during the organization’s 108th State Convention.

Reflecting on his lifetime of public service, Burg credits his eighth-grade civics class for piquing his interest.

“As we studied state government, I thought, ‘I want to do that someday.’”

And he did.

Burg, 82, served a decade as a state representative and one term as a state senator.

He served two terms as Mayor of Wessington Springs and served two terms on the Wessington Springs School Board.

For nearly two decades he served as South Dakota’s Public Utilities Commissioner and was instrumental in the development of wind power throughout South Dakota. Burg also served as an officer in the South Dakota Army National Guard “You know that old adage, ‘if you are not at the table, you are on the table’ – I believe this. If you want the things you need to survive and prosper, you need to get involved,” Burg said. “You cannot sit back and expect someone else will do it for you.”

Throughout his decades of public service, fairness has been an intentional focus.

“Being fair is essential to having a democratic society,” he said. “I don’t think we can have democracy without having fair treatment of all.”

Burg said his dad, Albert, was an excellent mentor and led by example.

“There were seven of us kids. And instead of everything going to just those of us who farmed, my dad was supportive of what we all wanted to do, so he incorporated the farm so that we would all get something and the family farm would not get divided,” said Burg, who returned to raise crops and cattle with his brother, Quinten, in 1963, after graduating from South Dakota State University with a degree in animal science.

The Burgs have farmed in Jerauld County since 1883. Burg’s great-grandpa, Andrew, homesteaded only two to three miles from where Firesteel Ranch is today. Firesteel Ranch is managed today by Burg’s sons, Jeff and Cory.

And like their dad, in retirement, Burg and Quinten implemented a fair transition plan where Burg’s three children who do not farm also receive an annual income from the ranch.

“All five of our children are very successful, this is one thing I am most proud of,” Burg said.

In addition to Jeff and Cory, Burg and his

wife, Bernice’s other children are Julie Bruckner, Casey Burg and Lisa Heiss. Julie is an educator; Casey is a medical doctor and Lisa is a Lt. Colonel in the Army.

Farmers Union is the defender of all in agriculture In addition to public service, over the years, Burg has belonged to many agriculture organizations and commodity groups.

But he says of all the ag groups, “Farmers Union is the farm organization that actually helps all farmers – farmers of all economic status. Farmers Union is the defender of all in agriculture.”

Although Burg did not serve in a leadership role for Farmers Union, he made time to participate in the organization’s annual Legislative Day and other advocacy opportunities.

“Without good policy, you cannot end up with good results,” Burg said. “I like to support good policy.” n By Lura Roti

In addition to Sombke and Kippley, these producers, join Clark farmer Gail Temple, who serves as board director for District 3; Union Center rancher Dallis Basel, who serves as board director for District 5; and Groton Farmer Chad Johnson, who serves as board director for District 7.

“When I look around the boardroom at the farmers and ranchers I get to serve with,

it is motivating,” Sombke said. “We are all focused on supporting our state’s family farmers and ranchers. We are eager to follow the guidance our members provide through grassroots policy. And all directors bring different perspectives and ideas and a determination to work together to make things better for the next generation of farmers and ranchers.” n By Lura Roti

“As we studied state government, I thought, ‘I want to do that someday.’”

– Jim Burg

Re-Elected Continued from Page 13 to answer my questions.”

Ag producers re-elected to serve During State Convention Policy Meeting, members also re-elected Wessington Springs farmer Scott Kolousek to serve as District 2 board director; Reliance rancher David Reis to serve as District 4 board director; and Parade rancher Oren Lesmeister to serve as District 6 board director. www.sdfu.org

January 2024

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Union Farmer

Young Leaders Share About Impact of Farmers Union

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uring the 2023 State Convention, six rural youth took to the podium to share about the experiences and impact participation in South Dakota Farmers Union youth programming has had on their lives.

Their speeches were heartfelt and inspiring. We share some excerpts here.

Senior Advisory Council Member, Aeriel Eitreim, Sioux Falls “Farmers Union camp has taught me how to stand up for myself, how to be courageous and how to have confidence in myself. It has taught me leadership, teamwork and respect. …

“One of the most important skills is leadership. Being a JAC last year and now a SAC, I have had the amazing opportunity to learn these leadership skills and pass them on to younger campers. The fundamentals I learned here have helped me to excel in the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps and will continue to help me in my future career as a Second Lieutenant, if I get selected for field training that is.”

Senior Advisory Council Member, Chaz Blotsky, Winner “When I was around 13, I was about to officially graduate out of my small one-room country school. That summer though, through a lot of bribing and even a little arguing, my mother made me go to Farmers Union Camp. Throughout the week through new friends and the counselors at the time, I started breaking out of my shell and was even becoming social.

“Fast forward through multiple years of fun memories and meeting many new friends I was out of shell completely and started really liking the idea of making connections.

“Farmers Union Camp has given me the confidence and leadership skills to put me in the great position I am today. It has given me the connections to always have someone there for me.”

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Junior Advisory Council Member, Chase Melius, Faulkton “The JACs in the past years have made my time at camp a blast and they helped me become a better person and pushed me outside of my comfort zone to meet new people and try new experiences…Those experiences that kids get from camp can impact a kid’s life and open up a kid’s mind and make them a better person by obtaining leadership skills and being kind.

“Camp has made me more kind to people in school and in the world. It has also made me more of a leader and more responsible.

It has been something I have looked forward to every summer since the first time I went.”

Junior Advisory Council Member, Madi Raymond, Ethan “This past summer, kids ages 9 to 12 had the opportunity to attend a larger statewide Farmers Union Jr. Camp.

“As a JAC, we wanted the campers to have fun, learn and stay engaged, so in order to teach them about cooperatives, they were divided into five groups and given the job of developing and running their own cooperative, either newspaper, store, insurance, credit union or housing. Each cooperative elected board members and made advertisements, and they each had their own unique jobs.

“Jr. State Camp was an opportunity for all campers to learn or try something new and step out of their comfort zone – whether it be making a new friend or trying a new activity. After all the action of the week was finished, campers returned home with new knowledge, friends and memories.”

Junior Advisory Council Member, Sean Thompson, Pierre “Our dedicated team of JAC and Junior JAC members have been putting in many efforts to plan and organize next year’s events.

“We understand the importance of fostering a sense of community and teamwork among each other, and this camp serves as a platform to strengthen those bonds. It’s not just about the fun and fostering of friendships; it’s about helping kids to break from their shells and be a leader within a strong, friendly community of people.

“By actively participating in the Farmers Union county and state Camps, we not only honor our traditions but also pave the way for a brighter future for the camp community.”

Jr. Junior Advisory Council Member, Cadence Konechne, Kimball “Over my years at camp, I have been surrounded by an amazing community. I have seen and learned from previous JACs. I watched them overcome challenges and keep the camp moving forward as if nothing happened. I saw many young adults step up and lead when called upon. One of the most impactful things I saw was that these leaders never excluded individuals. They seemed to care that everyone is involved, having a good time and respecting their opinions. I’ve learned a lot about roles in leadership by watching these previous leaders and I have even begun to take part in these leadership roles. Over time I have seen the benefit of these experiences; they have helped me become a more confident person in my decisions and taught me how to work with and cooperate with any group of people.” n www.sdfu.org

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Make time for Legislative Day 2024!

efore this update, I just want to encourage members to make time for the Feb. 13 Legislative Day. Legislators need to hear from the South Dakotans with boots on the ground. They need to hear from those who the laws they pass actually effect.

Property rights and childcare top South Dakota Farmers Union list of priorities this legislative session. Of the two, I expect property rights will get the most attention this legislative session.

At this time, we know of a few bills being drafted to support property rights and protect landowners from eminent domain being used for private gain.

I encourage all members to reach out to their local legislators and ask them to support legislation that protects property rights from interests looking to use eminent domain for private gain.

I’m going to wrap this update up with a few tips to consider when it comes to visiting with legislators during Legislative Day 2024: If you have a concern, what is the best way to bring it up to a legislator?

When visiting with a legislator and discussing issues that are important to you, remember to use personal stories to convey your message and address your concerns.

It is very important to know who is representing you and your home district in the South Dakota Legislature.

You should also know which legislative committees your legislator

Union Farmer

2024 Legislative Update

By Mitch Richter

Legislative Session 2024 begins Jan. 9. SDFU lobbyist Mitch Richter is in Pierre each day to keep an eye on the issues and ensure SDFU policy is represented. serves on and how you can contact them during the legislative session.

For this information, visit www. sdlegislature.gov/Legislators.

A few more items to consider when visiting with legislators: 1. It is important to show respect and address your senator or representative with their elected title.

2. Do not assume your legislators know everything about every issue. They will look to you, their constituent, as an expert on the issue you are bringing to their attention.

3. Use personal examples and stories to help make your point.

4. Once you return home, consider sending a thank you note to the legislators you visited with. All contact information can be found at sdlegislature.gov or reach out to the Farmers Union State Office. ■

Soren Retires Continued from Page 11 in Farmers Union,” Wayne said.

Reflecting on his involvement in Farmers Union, Soren said he is grateful for the many friends he has made along the way.

“I’ve met a lot of good people that I would not have met had I not been in the organization,” Soren said.

As he hands over the vice-presidential reigns, South Dakota Farmers Union is a leading advocate in the fight to break up monopolies among the packing industry, implement truth in labeling and reintroduce mandatory country-of-origin labeling (MCOOL).

“Wayne Soren leaves big boots to fill,” Kippley said. “He has been an excellent Vice President, and we are fortunate that he will remain involved and be here to answer questions and provide advice.”

Soren will continue serving on the Farmers Union Industry board of directors. Farmers Union Industries is made up of several businesses – the dividends of which go to help fund Farmers Union organizations in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana and Wisconsin as well as Farmers Union Enterprise programs and National Farmers Union.

And Soren will continue to encourage young producers to get engaged.

“Young producers have so much to do and worry about. I remember the days when I never had enough time to get everything done on the farm that needed to get done,” Soren said.

“So, it is a tough ask to make. But the truth is, if young farmers don’t make the time for advocacy and service, organizations like Farmers Union will not be around when they need us.” n By Lura Roti www.sdfu.org

January 2024

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Union Farmer

Join Us Feb. 13 to Advocate in Pierre for Landowner Rights & More

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amily farmers and ranchers from across the state are invited to Pierre to advocate for landowner rights and other policy that supports the individuals and families who make up South Dakota’s No. 1 industry of agriculture during South Dakota Farmers Union Legislative Day held Feb. 13, 2024 in Pierre.

“Legislative Day provides legislators with the opportunity to meet face-to-face with South Dakota farmers and ranchers to learn how the policy they put in place during 2024 legislative session will impact farmers, ranchers, their families and their communities,” said Doug Sombke, fourth-generation Conde farmer and President of South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU).

During the recent SDFU State Convention, members voted on policy and highlighted several top priority issues to focus on during the 2024 legislative session. Among these pri-

18 January 2024

Colome farmer Joel Keierleber (right) sits with Sioux Falls Representative Linda Duba during 2023 Legislative Day.

ority issues are landowner rights, fair markets and childcare.

“We are asking our state policymakers to be more clear when it comes to eminent domain rights,” Sombke said. “Current laws allow anyone with a pending permit to go onto land that does not belong to them and survey. We ask for legislation to change laws to protect property rights. A permit needs to be approved before land can be surveyed by an outside interest.”

Eminent domain for private gain is an important issue for Colome farmers Joel and Audrey Keierleber.

“Who pays the taxes? The landowner.

Why should someone else be able to make money from land they do not own and do not pay taxes on,” asked Joel Keierleber.

Each winter, the Keierlebers set aside a day to participate in Farmers Union Legislative Day. “This is the No. 1 day when legislators will listen to farmers,” Keierleber said. “It seems

unless we go to Pierre, legislators do not pay much attention to us. I have even made time for local cracker barrels and it seemed I was not listened to until I showed up in Pierre with a large group of farmers. A group draws more attention. Numbers do matter.”

SDFU Lobbyist Mitch Richter agrees with Keierleber. “It is always important for our legislators to hear from the people who are boots on the ground, getting their hands dirty raising crops and livestock,” Richter said. “Legislators need to hear from the people who are impacted by policy they pass.”

Richter added that Legislative Day allows farmers and ranchers to share how specific challenges impact them and it gives legislators the opportunity to ask them questions.

“Overall, Farmers Union members showing up in Pierre shows the legislators that you are interested, and you are following what they are doing in Pierre,” Richter said. “It is important to hold our legislators accountable.”

What to expect On Feb. 13, meet in the Capitol Rotunda at 10 a.m. Farmers Union staff will provide members with a packet of information.

Members will attend legislative hearings in the morning and meet with legislators for lunch and conversation at noon in the Rotunda.

“There is just something about getting to sit down with someone to share a meal that invites conversation,” said Karla Hofhenke, Executive Director of SDFU. “This lunch gives farmers and ranchers an opportunity to talk about what is important with them and ask for legislation they need to make positive change.”

After lunch, members will sit in on House and Senate sessions. To learn more about Legislative Day 2024, contact David Smith, Legislative/Farm Specialist, at 605-350-8857 or dsmith@sdfu.org. n www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer The Path to Higher Blends – Artificial Barriers Limiting Us to 10 percent

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Doug Durante, Clean Fuels Development Coalition

ast month’s column on the concerns we see with the RIN system concluded that we would look at pathways to higher blends so we would not be captive to the RFS. When I say captive, I say so in the sense that it has been very difficult to get beyond 10 percent blends because we have seen the RFS volume requirements become a ceiling rather than a floor. Those of us who had been involved in the creation of the RFS had always hoped that the 15 billion gallons that corn ethanol can qualify for would be a minimum that we would always have in a worst-case scenario. We would be free to produce more ethanol and to use it in blends above 10 percent.

That clearly has not happened. While almost all gasoline now contains 10 percent ethanol, we are easily producing enough that the base gasoline in the United States could absorb at least 12-15 percent. And, if the market was wide open, we would be able to blend to whatever level desired.

With the exorbitant price of premium gasoline, a 30 percent ethanol blend for example might be quite attractive to independent retailers and even some major refiners. As our friends at Glacial Lakes Energy have clearly demonstrated, a 30 percent blend is substantially lower in cost and has proven to be trouble free in conventional vehicles.

But, widespread adoption of higher blends has been elusive and there are several fundamental barriers.

First is the fact that a puzzling interpretation of existing law that applies a vapor pressure waiver to 10 percent blends is somehow assumed by many to mean ONLY 10 percent blends. Having been around long enough to have been part of these original regulations, I can say with certainty that no one envisioned ever having so much ethanol that we would go beyond 10 percent volume. So, the rule went into effect defining allowable blends as 10 percent. As a quick refresher, while ethanol is a clean, high-octane additive, one of its few demerits is that it raises vapor pressure when added to gasoline, resulting in

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a slight increase in evaporative emissions.

However, its chemical property as an oxygenate results in greater combustion of the fuel which in turn results in much lower tailpipe emissions. Those reductions greatly outweigh any emissions from the vapor pressure increase so the waiver from vapor pressure restrictions was allowed.

As we tried to use higher blends beginning with E15 the petroleum industry – primarily refiners, with some on the retail side – argued existing law meant only 10 percent and somehow, inexplicably, won that argument. This, despite the fact that the law states the waiver applies to fuel “containing 10 percent ethanol” and we argued E15 contains 10 percent ethanol. Furthermore, and this is even more mindboggling, the vapor pressure increase peaks at 10 percent and starts to come down after that so there is no credible, technical argument against allowing it for all blends. As the volume of ethanol increases, at the point it reaches 30 percent, there is no vapor pressure increase at all!

So, the first obstacle is man-made, namely the refining industry, with an assist from EPA. The issue has been ping-ponged back and forth in the courts and while EPA did promulgate a rule only after intense political pressure, it did not hold up. This is terribly frustrating because it should not be an issue at all since there is no emission increase. With every increment of ethanol, the octane increases and every gallon of ethanol that displaces a gallon of gasoline improves the carbon footprint of the fuel – higher octane, lower carbon, at a lower cost yet the refining industry fights it at every step.

The second obstacle has been the auto industry – not so much in the sense that they have actively opposed higher blends but rather a combination of things ranging from lack of testing to warranty limits. Wellfunded groups using oil industry money have helped to perpetuate fears and myths that emissions would increase and cars would suffer in terms of performance and

efficiency.

There is no basis for limiting ethanol blends in conventional vehicles. Furthermore, there is every reason for automakers to embrace higher ethanol blends. Clean Fuels Development Coalition (CFDC) is a participant on the Ag-Auto-Ethanol working group that includes the auto industry.

This group has had as a longstanding goal to unite behind 25 percent blends, and more recently up to E30. What is needed is an E30 certification fuel confirming it is substantially similar to straight gasoline or E10 blends. The auto industry has been reluctant to step forward and undertake necessary tests and certification protocols, often complaining of the cost and the concern that there would not be enough ethanol to make an E30 fuel viable. The result is the ability for them to say it is not an approved fuel and it doesn’t exist.

At CFDC, we have argued that there is no legislative or regulatory language we can find that prohibits the use of an E30 ethanol blend. In fact, we argue the burden of proof would be on EPA to prove such fuels either increase emissions or degrade performance.

If EPA truly supported the effort to use higher blends of ethanol, it could take on the task of certifying E30, meaning any blend up to that amount would be approved. Hopefully that would extend to warranties, making that a non-issue.

The Department of Energy was a participant in the original E15 waiver request and tested ethanol blended fuels in volumes of 20 percent. The emissions and performance results were all positive, so the data is there.

New pumps are certified for blends up to 40 percent. Combine that with the realworld test results conducted by the state of Nebraska, and the hundreds of millions of trouble-free miles from the Glacial Lakes E30 challenge and there is no reason to limit our fuel to 10 and 15 percent blends.

E85 is a different situation. While techni-

Higher Blends Continued on Page 22 January 2024

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Union Farmer Rob Larew National Farmers Union President

November arrived in full force inside the beltway.

At this time of year, theatrics in Washington featured sporadic chilly days, fallen orange foliage and empty tree branches, and dark skies by 5 p.m. These were all once again on full display but were relegated to a supporting cast, as this November featured a new lead actor: U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson – the new Speaker of the House.

In late October, Johnson (R-LA) was elected as the 56th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, allowing the House to finally resume legislative business.

The rest of the country may have turned back the clocks this month, but the clocks in the halls of Congress kept on ticking (louder and louder) as the lengthy delay put Congress up against several important deadlines.

GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN AVERTED (TAKE 2), FARM BILL EXTENDED Speaker Johnson was sworn in on Oct. 25, after three weeks of legislative business on hold. With the House up and running again, the first order of business for the new speaker has been the fiscal year 2024 (FY24) appropriations process, as the Nov. 17 government funding deadline approached.

As part of his pitch to the House Republican Conference in the race for speaker, Johnson outlined an ambitious legislative timeline, which included another stopgap funding bill that would last into 2024.

Johnson’s proposal also called for passing a Farm Bill in December, but as the vacancy dragged on, prospects for a new Farm Bill by year’s end rapidly dwindled.

Behind the scenes, talks of extending the 2018 Farm Bill (which expired on Sept. 30, 2023) were underway and quickly accelerated. By early November, all four leaders (the “Four Corners”) of the House and Senate agriculture committees had individually called for a year-long extension of the 2018 Farm Bill. On Nov. 12, the Four Corners announced they had reached an agreement on an extension, while renewing their commitment to passing a five-year Farm Bill in the next year.

That same weekend, Johnson released a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government into early 2024.

The CR funds the government at current FY23 levels and contains no spending cuts. The CR also included a full-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill through Sept.

30, 2024, and funds Farm Bill “orphan” programs, which are not included in the baseline and require Farm Bill action to continue operating.

NFU President Rob Larew issued the following statement upon final passage: “NFU is encouraged by the strong bipartisan support for an extension of the 2018 Farm Bill.

Now we urge Congress to channel that success toward getting a new Farm Bill done in a timely fashion. Family farmers and ranchers must have clarity about the status of farm programs to make informed planting and business decisions heading into the next growing season, and an extension accomplishes that in the short term. We will continue working to craft and pass a five-year Farm

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Bill that provides strong support for family farmers, ranchers and our communities.”

A unique and uncommon aspect of the CR is the two-tiered or “laddered” approach to extending current funding levels. Four of the appropriations bills have their funding extended through Jan. 19, 2024, including for agencies covered by the Agriculture, Energy-Water, Military Construction-VA, and Transportation-HUD appropriations bills. The remaining eight spending bills run through Feb. 2.

On Nov. 14, the House passed the CR by a vote of 336-95. Most Republicans and nearly all Democrats voted in favor, with the largest opposition block being the House Freedom Caucus. The next day, late in the evening, the Senate approved the bill by a vote of 8711. On Nov. 16, President Joe Biden signed the measure into law, officially averting a government shutdown and extending the 2018 Farm Bill.

In the House, Republicans remain mired in disagreement over several of their FY24 appropriations bills. The fissures among House Republicans on funding and policy create a daunting path forward for Johnson, as he seeks to navigate the January and February funding deadlines established in the CR. This dynamic could also make passing a Farm Bill in the first quarter of 2024 more difficult, especially when paired with ongoing disagreements regarding how to fund competing Farm Bill priorities.

USDA FINALIZES FIRST IN SERIES OF PACKERS AND STOCKYARDS ACT RULES On Nov. 8, USDA announced a final rule that will bring greater transparency to poultry contracting and tournaments. The rule’s finalization, the first of several recently proposed rules to strengthen and modernize the Packers and Stockyards Act (P&S Act), is an important milestone in USDA’s and the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to promote greater competition throughout the food system.

The final rule requires large poultry integrators to provide existing and prospective contract poultry growers with a disclosures document needed for growers to make informed business decisions before signing a contract with an integrator. The rule also requires poultry dealers to disclose earnings for growers by quintile, establish minimum flock placements and explain variable costs growers may incur, as well as how companies handle extenuating circumstances, such as sick flocks or natural disasters.

Furthermore, the rule requires dealers to provide tournament-specific disclosures of inputs to poultry growers who are paid using a grower ranking system and requires company disclosure of the distribution of inputs, housing specifications and feed disruptions for all growers in a tournament at the time of payment.

USDA also assures growers will not be disclosed to protect their privacy.

NFU has urged USDA to swiftly finalize its outstanding P&S Act rules. These include the “Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity” rule – currently in the final review stage – which seeks to identify unlawfully deceptive and retaliatory practices under

the P&S Act. Two additional rules have been proposed, one of which addresses problematic practices related to poultry grower payment systems and capital improvement programs, payment disparities and transparency concerns related to capital investments.

The other seeks to provide greater clarity regarding P&S Act violations to protect livestock and poultry producers from anti-competitive conduct and better enable producers to demonstrate harm to competition.

The U.S. House’s FY24 agriculture appropriations bill, which failed on the House floor in September, includes a provision to prevent USDA from completing these rules. NFU has urged lawmakers to reject this provision to ensure updates to P&S Act enforcement and modernization can be completed.

WHITE HOUSE ANNOUNCES LANDMARK INVESTMENTS TO SUPPORT RURAL AMERICA On Nov. 1, Biden traveled to Northfield, Minn., to highlight investments from the president’s “Investing in America” agenda. The event took place at Minnesota Farmers Union member Brad Kluver’s Dutch Creek Farms.

The president announced $5 billion in rural investments, covering rural infrastructure, economic development, sustainability and climate-smart agricultural practices.

Programs included in Biden’s announcement include: • $1.7 billion in Investments in Climate-Smart Agriculture.

• $1.1 billion in Investments in Rural American Infrastructure.

• $2 billion in Investments to Partner with Rural Communities to Create Jobs and Support Ruralled Economic Development.

• $274 million to Expand Critical Rural High-Speed Internet Infrastructure.

• $145 million to Expand Access to Renewable Energy and Lower Energy Costs for Rural Americans.

The investments for climate-smart agriculture include an unprecedented $1.1 billion investment across 81 projects through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), to expand the reach of voluntary conservation efforts and climate-smart agriculture through public-private partnerships.

Another $600 million will be thrust into the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

In his remarks, Biden highlighted the threats corporate consolidation in the food system pose to farmers, ranchers and consumers, and discussed actions his administration is taking to promote competition in the American economy.

NFU appreciates the Biden-Harris administration’s ongoing commitment to promote competition in agricultural markets, the core tenet of NFU’s Fairness for Farmers campaign and will continue working with the administration to deliver results. ■ Current as of November 2023

www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

From the President....

Make Pierre a Destination this Legislative Session

H

appy New Year!

As I look ahead to 2024 and the priorities set in place by you, our Farmers Union members during State Convention 2023, our team is eager to continue working for South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers this year.

During the convention, I shared with you polling numbers collected by Embold, a very trusted polling firm, to demonstrate where South Dakotans stand on property rights and their respect for Summit, the company trying to build a CO2 pipeline across our state. (See survey results here: https://www. southdakotansfirst.com/survey).

Even with solid support by South Dakota voters when it comes to protecting landowners’ rights from eminent domain being used for private gain the take home is this – we have a very steep and hard row to hoe in the legislature.

With your help reaching out to your legislators at every opportunity either via email, phone calls, attending public meetings with them etc., our draft legislation to protect property rights has a much better chance of being passed into law.

The Ask: During the 2024 Legislative Session, please support bills that protect property rights from outside interests using eminent domain for private gain.

Contact information for you legislator can be found at sdlegislature.gov.

As individuals who earn our living from the land, we are on the right side of this issue with support from South Dakota voters as demonstrated in the poll results. Our ask to protect property rights makes perfect sense. That being said, one of the challenges we face is the fact that even though agriculture is our state’s No. 1 industry, we have very few legislators who work in agriculture.

And the concentration of legislative representation is in counties where agriculture is no longer the economic driver. In an effort to make sure your story is heard in these areas, consider reaching out to friends and family living in Minnehaha or Lincoln or Pennington counties and other more urban counties and ask them to talk to their representatives about supporting property rights.

Another challenge we face is a myth that if we stand up for property rights, we are not supporting ethanol.

You can support ethanol and support property rights.

Know that I, Mitch Richter, David Smith, South Dakotans First and others will be in Pierre working to ensure your voice is heard on this topic – as well as all other legislation that aligns with SDFU policy.

This year is a must win year for our legislation.

There will be times we will call on you to stand up and speak out in Pierre.

Numbers of people showing up is what legislators understand as they sit in committee chambers listening to testimony.

Among the dates to mark on your calendar is Feb. 13, which is Farmers Union Legislative Day. Together we can do this. Be a team member and step up to the call when it’s time to act!

Doug Sombke, SDFU President CHS bylaw change CHS members attending their 2023 annual meeting passed a bylaw change impacting the percentage of allocated equity. If not handled correctly, this trend will lead to less ownership by patrons of CHS. I would encourage all CHS members to be engaged in local annual meetings to ensure the cooperative continues to work for its member-owners.

Supporting Next Gen Leaders SDFU’s triangle emblem’s base is Education supporting our efforts of Cooperation and Legislation. Obtaining all three takes leadership by members. Proactive planning for the future is among the responsibilities you have placed on your board of directors and state staff. Maintaining a strong organization takes a strong bench of leaders. By active involvement and engagement from members participating in our producer conferences and other leadership networking opportunities like Farmers Union Enterprise Leadership (FUEL) program, we are building strong leadership for today and the future of our great organization.

Jan. 5-6 several South Dakota producers will meet up with producers from a three-state region in Oklahoma for another Young Producers Event.

As our board looks to the future, we will continue to support professional development efforts because they work. Our National Farmers Union Vice President Jeff Kippley and his wife, Rachel, as well as District 2 and 7 Directors and the chair of our Policy Committee are all graduates of FUEL. We have several other members representing SDFU on statewide boards on your behalf.

As your president, I was very proud of our delegation as they stood for you at numerous national events this past year. NFU 2023 convention and NFU Fall Fly-In are just a couple events where these upand-coming leaders made SDFU proud!

The next generation not only stepped up to lead in South Dakota Farmers Union but these young leaders are taking on leadership roles in their community and state as well.

Thank you!

In closing, I know fighting for our grassroots policy during the 2024 Legislative Session will take grit and determination. I am up for this challenge and I am grateful to know you are as well.

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

Sen. Mike Rounds Sen. John Thune Michael Brooks – 202-570-1558 202-224-2321 / 866-850-3855 Michael_Brooks@Rounds.Senate.gov ryan_donnelly@thune.senate.gov

A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

South Dakota Union Farmer, ISSN 0745-8797, publishes seven times per calendar year, with issues printed in January/ February, March/April, May, June/July, August, September/ October and November/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 • 605-554-3028 1410 Dakota Avenue South, PO Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350 www.sdfu.org

sdfu@sdfu.org

SDFU State Office Staff Doug Sombke.............ext. 1240 President Groton Direct Line 605-554-3027

Karla Hofhenke..........ext. 1140 Executive Director Huron Direct Line 605-554-3028

Doug Bruckner...........ext. 1180 Controller Wessington Springs Direct Line 605-554-3026

Samantha Olson........ext. 1250 Education Specialist Mitchell Direct Line 605-554-3022

Rocky Forman............ext. 1170 Member Services Coordinator Huron Direct Line 605-554-3025

Shelby Landmark.......ext. 1220 Communication Specialist Iroquois Direct Line 605-554-3024

Liz Chapman...............ext. 1160 Administrative Assistant Huron Direct Line 605-554-3023

David Smith Legislative/Farm Specialist Pierre Direct Line 605-350-8857

SDFU Board of Directors Doug Sombke.........President Groton Jeff Kippley..... Vice President Aberdeen Larry Birgen............... District I Beresford 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

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

January 2024

21

Union Farmer

R

Get to Know Farmers Union Insurance Stacy Mongar Agency, Sioux Falls

ecently, Stacy Mongar received a phone call from a Farmers Union health insurance client. The client was faced with a difficult decision and needed Mongar’s help.

The client’s finger was severely injured and the surgeon at the hospital who carried their insurance said the best outcome was amputation. When the client went for a second opinion, the other surgeon said they could save the finger. Unfortunately this surgeon worked for a different hospital.

After listening to the problem, Mongar contacted both hospitals and worked to negotiate a Stacy Mongar solution where her insurance client could receive the surgery which would save her finger AND have it covered by insurance.

Mongar says it is moments like this when she knows she is in the right career.

“I love being able to solve people’s problems,” said Mongar, who serves as the Medicare and financial products specialist for Farmers Union Insurance agents throughout South Dakota.

And she works to proactively provide clarity to Farmers Union Insurance health insurance and Medicare clients.

“Medicare can be so complicated and confusing. And now that everything is electronic, many seniors feel like they have been left behind,” Mongar explained.

She or someone on her team reaches out with a phone call to each Medicare client ahead of each re-enrollment period.

“We make sure they are happy with their current plan and offer to help them make any changes,” she said.

Mongar grew up in Parker and began working for Midland

National Life not long after she graduated from high school.

She says from the beginning, customer service has always been a priority.

“I believe 100 percent in customer service. Some only sell insurance. I believe in doing the work behind the scenes to service what is sold,” she said.

Mongar got to know Farmers Union Insurance while working as their annuity wholesaler. She joined the team in 2019 and started in her current role in 2020. In her role, Mongar partners with Farmers Union Insurance agents across the state to provide health insurance coverage to their clients.

“It can be hectic at times, but I thrive on being able to help people,” Mongar said.

FUI Medicare and financial prodWhen Mongar is not ucts specialist Stacy Mongar and her husband, Michael have working, she and her husband, three children: Jessica, Jacob and Michael, are actively involved Courtney. with their children. Daughters, Courtney, 21, Jessica, 20, attend Grand Canyon University in Phoenix and son, Jacob, is currently playing baseball on the Philadelphia Phillies scout team.

“His goal is to play in the Major Leagues, so in my spare time I am usually traveling to watch baseball,” Mongar said. n Contact Information: 605-212-1581 Email: stacy.mongar@fumic.com

Higher Blends Continued from Page 19 cally it is a higher blend, it is used in flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs). Unfortunately, automakers do not produce FFVs with a few very select exceptions, so that is a limited market. In contrast, E30 can be used in conventional vehicles requiring no modifications. Then it gets really exciting to think about an E40 hybrid like they are unveiling in Brazil.

The answer to finding that pathway to higher blends and forcing all these periph-

22

January 2024

eral issues to be resolved is to enforce the toxics provision in the Clean Air Act (CAA).

Introduced by then Sens. Tom Daschle and Bob Dole, the provision requires EPA to reduce toxic aromatic compounds in gasoline that are the source of octane. Ethanol is a readily available, cost-effective, low carbon octane alternative that refiners have resisted because they don’t make it. If that provision was enforced, it would effectively

require ethanol, and all these related issues would need to finally be resolved by EPA. SDFU and NFU have joined CFDC in calling for EPA to do its job and we need that continued support as we pursue this pathway.

In future columns, we will look at the substantial benefits that would result from such action, particularly as they relate to the quest for carbon reductions that are driving so many fuel and transportation policies. n www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer THAN K YOU Thank you Farmers Union for awarding me a beautiful calf. She is at the farm with my other calves.

Sincerely, Mark Cavenee

Deceased Carol Ihlene Voegeli, of Beresford, S.D., passed away on Nov. 8, 2023. Carol is survived by her husband, Lester, of 56 years.

ORDER YOUR OWN COPY OF THE FARMERS UNION CENTENNIAL COOKBOOK

Save the Date for

Women in Blue Jeans 2024 Feb. 23-24 Highland Conference Center, Mitchell

Registration Free for Farmers Union Members Contact Shelby Landmark, call 605-554-3024 or slandmark@sdfu.org to learn more.

FARMERS UNION SIGNS

Show your Farmers Union spirit with a special Farmers Union sign. 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 Liz Chapman at 605-352-6761 ext 116 or at lchapman@sdfu.org.

Cookbooks are $10 plus tax and shipping.

Contact Liz Chapman 605-352-6761, ext 116, to place your order today!

(SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

COOK’S CORNER

December 2023

Strawberry Spinach Salad Dressing: 1 lemon 2 T. white wine vinegar 1/3 c. sugar

SDFU CLIP AND SAVE CALENDAR

Susie Hitchcock, Huron, S.D. Lifetime Member

25-26

Office Closed – Christmas

2024 January 1

Office Closed – New Year’s Day

5-6

Tri-State Producer Conference

6

District 3 Meeting – Watertown

8

District 1 Meeting – Zoom

8

Clay/Lincoln Annual Meeting

Zest lemon to measure ½ teaspoon zest. Juice lemon to measure 2 tablespoons juice. Combine zest, juice, vinegar, sugar, oil and poppy seeds in small bowl.

Whisk until well blended. Cover, refrigerator until ready to use.

15

Office Closed – MLK Jr. Day

Salad: ¼ c. sliced almonds, toasted 1 ½ c. (8 oz.) strawberries ½ med. cucumber

March

1 T. vegetable oil 1 tsp. poppy seed

¼ sm. red onion 1 pkg. (6 oz.) baby spinach (or spring mix that contains spinach)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spread almonds in single layer over bottom of small baking pan. Bake 10 to 12 minutes until lightly toasted. WATCH these… they’ll burn quickly! Remove from oven. Cool almonds. Hull strawberries, cut strawberries into quarters or slice. Peel cucumber and slice, cut slices in half. Slice onion into thin wedges. Place spinach in large serving bowl; add strawberries, cucumbers, and onion. Whisk dressing, pour over salad, gently tossing to coat. Sprinkle with almonds. www.sdfu.org

26-Feb. 3 Black Hills Stock Show February 13

Legislative Day – Pierre

19

Office Closed – President’s Day

10-12

NFU Convention – Scottsdale, Ariz.

April 6

District 3 Meeting – Watertown

June 9-14

State Camp

July 4

Office Closed – 4th of July

October 5

District 3 Meeting – Watertown

November 28-29

Office Closed – Thanksgiving

December 11-12

State Convention

24-26

Office Closed – Christmas

January 2024

23