Union Farmer May/June 2021

Volume CVI, No. 4 Huron, SD MAY/JUNE 2021

A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

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

Insurance Scholarships

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Secretary of Ag & Natural Resources Answers Producer Questions

ValueAdded Ag Happening in Brown County

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Celebrating Farm & Ranch Moms

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Rural Cooperative Members S.D. Farmers Union Celebrates Selected for the First Class Brown County Farm Family of Rural POWER

Billie Sutton and his wife, Kelsea, (front row) are pictured with members of 2019 Billie Sutton Leadership Institute. First class of Rural POWER, sponsored by South Dakota Farmers Union announced: Wayne Ducheneaux, Eagle Butte; Sara Hento, Avon; Joshua Hofer, Parkston; Jordan Jones, Rapid City; Krecia Leddy, Stockholm; and Katy VanderPol, Platte.

Rural Power article Continued on Page 5

JULY 30-31, 2021 Cedar Shore Oacoma Free to members!

To learn more, turn to page 8.

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 Larry and Sharon Stroschein farm family of Warner. Larry and Sharon (far rght) pictured here with daughter Amy Wanous, her husband, John, and grandchildren, Andrew, Katy and Elizabeth, and cattle dog, Rez.

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ometimes history repeats itself. And Brown County cattle producer Larry Stroschein is happy it did.

“My Grandpa August was born and raised in St. Paul, Minn.

And when he was a young man, in his mid-teens, he and his buddy jumped on the Milwaukee Railroad and came out here to help with the harvest. While he was here, he met Ida Brick and they eventually got married and the city boy became a farmer,” Larry shares.

Nearly a century later, Larry and Sharon’s daughter, Amy, married John Wanous and today, the couple manages the family farm – rotational grazing cattle on some of the same land August bought 10 miles west and one mile south of Warner in 1912.

“Let’s face it, most of the time it’s a son that’s taking over the farm, not a daughter,” Amy says. “We love living out here. I just cannot imagine living anywhere else in the world. If anyone said I could go anywhere, I would not move.”

Her husband, John, agrees. Although John had much more experience than Larry’s Grandpa August, like August, he grew up in town. His dad and namesake, John Sr., served as general manager of the local Warner Co-op. “I have been an animal nut since I was a kid. I always worked for farmers growing up,” John explains. “There is no way a young guy could get started in agriculture today without any ground. Without Larry and Sharon, this would not be possible.”

Stroschein Family Continued on Page 2

Union Farmer “You get a bull you like and match them up with your cows and you take the heifers from the bull you picked out with your cows and you keep the best heifers and match them and pretty soon the herd becomes a part of you because you basically made the herd the way it is.”

– Larry Stroschein

Stroschein Family

Continued from Page 1

The fact that four generations later, the family continues to raise cattle on the original land August purchased more than a century ago is amazing. Because like so many of South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers, during the Dirty Thirties, August wasn’t able to make his payments and lost the farm. “Back in those days, banks would not work with you,” Larry explains.

“Grandpa didn’t talk about it much, but one Sunday after dinner I heard Dad and Grandpa talking about how it all happened.

In 1928, Grandpa had a tremendous wheat

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crop. There were three farm magazines he had a subscription to, and they all told farmers to “hold your wheat, it will go to $3 a bushel.” It was pie in the sky. He held his wheat and got 28 cents a bushel and could not make his payment. If he had sold it in ’28, he would have gotten $2.75 a bushel and been fine.

In 1945 the land came up for sale and Larry’s dad, Lester, who had been farming leased ground, bought the family’s farm and rangeland back from the insurance company who foreclosed on his dad, August.

“My dad did get $3 a bushel for the second wheat crop he took off the homeplace in 1947. He went straight to Ernie Rhodes’ office in Aberdeen and said, ‘I came in here to pay off the farm.’ Ernie said, ‘you mean you are here to make your yearly payment.’ Dad said, ‘no, I am here to pay it off.’ Then Ernie said, ‘I knew I sold that farm too cheap.’”

With a legacy like this, Larry is thrilled that when he was ready to retire, Amy and John wanted to take over the day-to-day farm operations.

“It makes me feel really good. And maybe one day, one of the grandkids will

want to take it over,” Larry says.

Growing up helping his dad, Lester, on the farm, Larry says he always knew he wanted to continue the family tradition of raising crops and cattle. Even though the family raises some forage crops, it’s really the cattle that they are passionate about, Larry explains.

“You get a bull you like and match them up with your cows and you take the heifers from the bull you picked out with your cows and you keep the best heifers and match them and pretty soon the herd becomes a part of you because you basically made the

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Union Farmer herd the way it is.”

Even today, as a retired cattleman, Larry says he loves nothing better than spending time with his cattle.

“Most farmers, when they retire, they buy a boat and they go out in the middle of a lake with a cooler of beer and fish. I will take my beer cooler and go sit in the middle of a pasture and just watch my cows. And pretty soon the little calves will come nuzzle my fingers. Then, when I’m done, I head home and I don’t have any fish to clean.”

Oddly enough, it was a runt piglet that helped Larry get his start in the cattle business.

“My mother’s family were farmers too, and they raised hogs. They had a real runt pig and Grandpa said I could have that runt pig if I could catch it. Well, I couldn’t catch it, so I drafted my Uncle Merlyn and he helped me. Well, we all milked cows, and that dumb runt pig got all the separated milk and grew up to be one big pig. I traded it to my dad for a little heifer calf and I started keeping her heifers.”

Because they run all the cattle together, to keep Larry’s cattle separate from Amy and John’s, Larry’s cattle are red and the Wanouses’ cattle are black.

Not unlike his Grandpa August, Larry and Sharon faced tough times in the 1980s.

It was during the Farm Crisis of the ’80s that Sharon returned to off-farm work. Prior to children, Sharon taught elementary school, first in Mellette then in Warner after she and Larry married in 1965.

Sharon and Larry have four grown children and 10 grandchildren: Amy and John and children, Andrew, Elizabeth, and Katy; Ryan and his wife, Angela, and son, Will; Lon and his wife, Mindi, and children, Grace, Dawson and Oliver; and Allyson and her husband, Pete, and children, Sophie, Alexander and Freya.

After their children were in school, the banker encouraged Sharon to get an off-farm job. So she began working as the Northeast Area Director for Sen. Tim

Johnson. She held that position for 28 years, retiring in January 2015.

“That off-farm income and health insurance was vital to our operation,” explains Sharon, who grew up on a farm 17 miles northwest of Aberdeen. Today, like the Stroschein farm, the Raetzman family farm remains in the family.

“Growing up on the farm, I thought this was the life. There was the freedom and animals and I had my own horse,” Sharon says.

Today, it’s their grandchildren who enjoy riding and competing in 4-H horsemanship.

And like her mom, Amy supplements the family’s farm income by working for the Warner School District.

With Amy working full time during the school year, to keep the workload more manageable for John, the family calves twice a year – in April and August.

“It also gives you two different markets to sell into and you get two shots with your bulls,” Larry explains. “I feel I can spend more money for a bull because he will breed double the number of cows.”

Much of the land their cattle graze is still native grassland.

“We can still see the wagon wheel trails from the pioneers and old settlers,” Larry says.

To best manage their grassland, the family implements a strict rotational grazing plan. “I like the concept of rotational grazing because it’s going back to when this land was all prairie and the buffalo roamed. The buffalo would eat different grasses different times of year. You can do that with rotational grazing,” Larry says.

He explains that he, John and Amy force the cows to graze a pasture hard for about three weeks, and then they take the cows out. “It is amazing how that grass will recover,” Larry says.

Each year, the family’s herd rotates through different pastures different times of year, giving both warm- and cool-season grasses an opportunity to thrive. They have seen a resurgence of big bluestem.

“Much of this land has never had a plow go through it and if it’s up to us, it will never have a plow go through it,” says Amy. “We think of ourselves more as ranchers anyway.

It’s the cattle we are passionate about.” ■

By Lura Roti for SDFU

Transition Planning for the Next Generation With the future of their family’s farm in mind, Larry and Sharon Stroschein are open with their children about their transition plan.

“We have been to many seminars on estate planning and learned from those that it is best to keep your children informed of your wishes,” Sharon explains. “Don’t assume they know what you want. You have to be clear about what your wishes are. For that reason, we created a Stroschein Family Limited Partnership so everything is spelled out as best we could.”

They hold meetings with their four grown children and their families twice a year. One meeting is at the farm, the other is a destination meeting. “It’s amazing how easy it is to get your children to come to a meeting when you cover the expenses and hold it in Florida,” Larry says.

In addition to their children having a clear understanding of what their transition plan is, the grandparents of 10 see another benefit to their transition plan. Because of all the gatherings of the family limited partnership, their grandchildren have had the opportunity to spend lots of time together.

“The grandkids are now all very close to each other,” Sharon says. “This is a blessing for which we are both very thankful.” n

“I like the concept of rotational grazing because it’s going back to when this land was all prairie and the buffalo roamed. The buffalo would eat different grasses different times of year.

You can do that with rotational grazing.” – Larry Stroschein

www.sdfu.org

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Union Farmer

Beresford, Hoven, Viborg-Hurly and Parker FFA Members Qualify for S.D. Farmers Union Safety Quiz Bowl Championship

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FA members from Beresford, Hoven, Viborg-Hurley and Parker qualified for the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) Farm Safety Quiz Bowl championships during the 2021 State FFA Convention.

“Farm and ranch work can be dangerous. We host this contest each year to encourage youth to consider safety and understand how to keep themselves and others safe,” explains Doug Sombke, SDFU President.

The 2021 Quiz Bowl championships will be held Sept. 4 during South Dakota Farmers Union Day at the South Dakota State Fair.

Beresford FFA member Blake Jensen plans to put in some time over the summer months studying farm safety and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) manuals. The Beresford FFA team scored the most points during the game show-style quiz bowl.

“I’m looking forward to the competition at the State Fair,” says Jensen, who works on his family’s crop farm and excavation and tiling business.

“Safety is something you need to be thinking about all the time, because when you are working with or around large equipment, you could end up hurt,” Jensen says.

Farm safety is something Jensen and his peers learn about through their agriculture education classes. This school year, he took OSHA training. Bridget Twedt, the Beresford Agriculture Education Teacher

and FFA Adviser, says the Farmers Union Quiz Bowl is a fun way for students to put what they learn in the classroom into action.

“It’s nice for students to know it’s not just Mrs. Twedt who thinks this is important information for them to know,” she says. “Understanding the safety side of farming is huge. The sad fact is, many lives have been lost or life changing injuries have occurred because safety was not considered.”

FFA members participating in the qualifying teams are Beresford - Joseph Anderson, Alex Quartier, Jackson Hofer and Blake Jensen; Hoven - Jaxson Spindler, Connor Kaup, Kendra Kaiser and Lincoln Stuwe; Viborg-Hurley - Rachel Christenson, Kallie Lee and Ty Van Hull; Parker - Geoff Dunkelberger, Brandt Marsh, Jack Even and Natalie Haase.

The Farm Safety Quiz Bowl is just one of many ways South Dakota Farmers Union works to provide South Dakota youth with farm and ranch safety education. The organization includes farm and ranch safety as part of their summer camp curriculum. And the Farmers Union Farm Safety Trailer provides an interactive learning experience to thousands of youth each year.

To learn more about South Dakota Farmers Union, visit www.sdfu. org. ■

Beresford FFA members qualified for the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) Farm Safety Quiz Bowl championships during the 2021 State FFA Convention. Team members include Joseph Anderson, Alex Quartier, Jackson Hofer and Blake Jensen.

Viborg-Hurley FFA members qualified for the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) Farm Safety Quiz Bowl championships during the 2021 State FFA Convention. Team members include Rachel Christenson, Kallie Lee and Ty Van Hull.

Hoven FFA members qualified for the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) Farm Safety Quiz Bowl championships during the 2021 State FFA Convention. Team members include Jaxson Spindler, Connor Kaup, Kendra Kaiser and Lincoln Stuwe.

Parker FFA members qualified for the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) Farm Safety Quiz Bowl championships during the 2021 State FFA Convention. Team members include Geoff Dunkelberger, Brandt Marsh, Jack Even and Natalie Haase.

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www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer South Dakota Farmers Union Supports the Next Generation of Cooperative Leaders

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roviding education to rural South Dakotans and supporting cooperatives are founding principles of South Dakota Farmers Union. In 2021, the organization is putting these two values into action by sponsoring six South Dakota cooperative members to participate in Rural POWER. Rural POWER is a year-long leadership development program sponsored by South Dakota Farmers Union and hosted by the Billie Sutton Leadership Institute. As the POWER acronym suggests, the program is focused on “Powering Opportunities While Energizing Rural.”

“We are excited to offer this opportunity and support the next generation of cooperative and community leaders,” explains Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union. “Our state’s cooperatives need rural leaders who have the skills necessary to guide them through the challenges and opportunities they face.”

Rural cooperative members selected to participate in the 2021 Rural POWER class include Wayne Ducheneaux, Eagle Butte; Sara Hento, Avon; Joshua Hofer, Parkston; Jordan Jones, Rapid City; Krecia Leddy, Stockholm; and Katy VanderPol, Platte.

“We care about vibrant communities, workplaces and service to others,” says Billie Sutton, founder of the nonprofit Billie Sutton Leadership Institute which directs the Rural POWER. “Rural POWER works to grow the next generation of community and

cooperative leaders.”

Sutton explains that during the year-long Rural POWER program, participants will engage in educational leadership training opportunities emphasizing community building and serving your neighbors while learning from cooperative leaders committed to rural development. “It is our hope that Rural POWER participants will gain the knowledge and enthusiasm to re-imagine and re-energize rural South Dakota.”

While participating in Rural POWER, class members will gain a clear understanding of how cooperatives are organized and they will have the opportunity to engage with current

cooperative leaders.

“Cooperatives provide services many South Dakotans take for granted – like power, water, home heating fuel and internet connectivity. Through Rural POWER, it’s our hope to shine a light on the important role cooperatives play in South Dakota and connect rural leaders with opportunities to become engaged in their local cooperative,” Sombke explains.

To learn more about Rural POWER, visit suttonleadership.org and click on the About Us tab. ■

Get to Know the 2021 Interns Shelby Ruland and Samantha Olson are the 2021 S.D. Farmers Union (SDFU) Interns. Together they will work with SDFU Education Director Rachel Haigh-Blume to host youth camps throughout the summer months.

Get to know Shelby Ruland: School: SDSU majoring in political science and agriculture leadership Why SDFU?: Farmers Union’s agriculture advocacy and education methods drew me in right away. I believe teaching youth about agriculture is so important because they truly are the future of this ever-growing industry. I knew I wanted to make an impact this summer by helping teach campers and future members more about what makes our industry so amazing.

www.sdfu.org

Get to know Samantha Olson: School: SDSU majoring in Agricultural Education Why SDFU?: I come from an agricultural background, where my grandpa started his own farm. I have always loved working on the farm and hope to someday have my own. Farming and ranching are hard industries, and you must do what you love to make it. I see how Famers Union organization cares for their people and how the ranchers and farmers care for their neighbors, this is the community I want to work in. I am excited to learn more about the industry and continue to grow as a young leader. ■

Samantha Olson (Aberdeen) and Shelby Ruland (Wall) are the 2021 SDFU Summer Interns.

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Union Farmer

Farmers Union Connects Producers to Soil Health Experts During Webinar

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arming with his dad, Tim, and working full time in seed sales, agronomist Matt Zilverberg’s days are packed. But the Onida farmer still found time for South Dakota Farmers Union’s most recent Producer Ag Hour which focused on Soil Health.

“This is another resource where I can gather information for free. As a farmer this is huge. You never know when you will pick up a tidbit of something you can implement on your farm,” Zilverberg explains.

The tidbit Zilverberg picked up during the April 14 webinar had to do with a matching resource that connects crop producers without cattle, with cattle producers who don’t raise crops. The soil health Producer Ag Hour featured Austin Carlson, South Dakota Soil Health Coalition technician, and Shawn Freeland, a Caputa cattle producer and vice chairman of the S.D. Soil Health Coalition Board.

“Integrating livestock is something we have not done up to this point and this resource gives us the opportunity to find someone to graze our cornstalks,” says Zilverberg of the S.D. Grazing Exchange found on the S.D. Soil Health Coalition website.

Grazing livestock is one of the five soil health principals Carlson covered during

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Farming with his dad, Tim, and working full time in seed sales, agronomist Matt Zilverberg’s days are packed.

the one-hour presentation, which included information on soil health basics to more complex topics like how to select and manage cover crops for dry conditions.

“There are different ways to handle cover crops in dry conditions,” Carlson explains. He added that in his role as a soil health technician, he is happy to meet with producers, at no cost, and help them develop a soil health plan that will work to meet their goals and with their specific growing conditions.

“Every situation is a little different. But the key thing is, when you’re thinking about cover crops, have a goal in mind, be thinking ahead about what you want to plant next year and what your next cash crop is. It’s also good to consider your last cash crop,” Carlson says.

Dennis Larson appreciated Carlson’s insight.

A retired farmer Larson only leases his land to tenants who implement soil health practices.

“I started farming in 1970. When I first started farming, I did things like everyone else did. We had quite a few dry years, and one day the wind came up and there was so much dust on a summer fallow field I had to get the chisel plow out of the shed and try and stop it. I never plowed since.”

Larson’s voice cracks with emotion as he recalls the story. “I feel as though the soil were

given to us by God to care for.”

Connect to all Producer Ag Hour Webinars at www.SDFU.org Connecting producers with information and resources is the motivation behind the Producer Ag Hour series South Dakota Farmers Union launched in October 2020.

“Today, farmers and ranchers face so many obstacles and challenges. We see these Producer Hours as one way to help our state’s family farmers and ranchers,” says Doug Sombke, President of SDFU. In addition to soil health, Producer Ag Hour webinars have connected producers with experts on topics ranging from transition and succession planning to livestock nutrition, national ag policy, market outlook and more.

“We initially planned to have a four-part series, but the feedback from the many farmers and ranchers we have tune in each month has encouraged us to do more,” explains Karla Hofhenke, Executive Director for SDFU. All webinars can be accessed by visiting the South Dakota Farmers Union website, www. sdfu.org and clicking on the Media Library link under the News & Events tab. ■ www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

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2021 Insuring a Brighter Tomorrow Scholarship Winners Announced

he South Dakota Farmers Union Foundation, in cooperation with Farmers Union Insurance, announces the Insuring a Brighter Tomorrow scholarship recipients.

Each of the scholarship recipients will receive $1,000 to put toward their postsecondary education at a South Dakota college, university or technical school. Over the past 14 years, the Foundation has awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships to students.

The recipients were chosen from among a large pool of applicants.

They were scored based on a combination of academic record, school, community and volunteer involvement and an essay responding to the following prompt: Describe a meaningful high school experience and how it impacted your life.

Farmers Union Insurance agents throughout the state fund this scholarship program administered by the Farmers Union Foundation. “Supporting tomorrow’s leaders through scholarships not only helps these amazing youth and their families, but it is one way Farmers Union remains strong in our support of family farmers, ranchers and their rural communities,” says Doug Sombke, SDFU President. ■

www.sdfu.org

Abigail Mayer Daughter of Lance & Jennifer Mayer SF Washington High School

Courtney Turck Daughter of Rob & Angela Turck Redfield High School

Ella Wittmuss Daughter of Alan & Sarah Wittmuss Vermillion High School

Elle Hoops Daughter of Dave & Debbie Hoops Huron High School

Everett Paul Son of John & Rebecca Paul Sunshine Bible Academy

Hannah Whitney Daughter of Corey & Nicole Whitney Armour High School

Hayley Hanson Daughter of Robert & Kimberly Hanson Winner High School

Isaac Suchor Son of Valenine & Tamara Suchor Redfield High School

Jessie Lux Daughter of Layne & LeAnn Lux Eureka High School

Josh Hoffman Son of Mark & Kim Hoffman Leola High School

Kayla Van Osdel Daughter of Barry & Janine Van Osdel Gayville-Volin High School

Kelcey Butler Daughter of David Butler & Michelle Butler Philip High School

Kennedy Leiferman Daughter of Brent & Cassi Leiferman Kimball High School

Kyle Peterson Son of Jim & Melissa Peterson Northwestern High School

Lane Miller Son of Ryan & Sara Miller Howard High School

Lauren Weishaar Daughter of Shawn & Sarah Weishaar Lemmon High School

Layton Eide Son of Stacy & Jacque Eide Deuel High School

Lindsey Grabowska Daughter of Troy & Renee Grabowska Ipswich Public High School

Logan Wagner Son of Doug & Lisa Wagner SF Roosevelt High School

Madison Weishaar Daughter o Shawn & Sarah Weishaar Lemmon High School

Mitchell VanderWal Son of Jeff & Beth VanderWal Northwestern High School

Reilly Hoops Son of Dave & Debbie Hoops Huron High School

Sadie Streff Daughter of Paul & Louann Streff Clark High School

Samantha Hubert Daughter of Chad & Mindy Hubert New Underwood High School

Shaley Dirk Daughter of Scott & Shannon Dirk Newell High School

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Union Farmer Producers Invited to Get Away & Connect With Information & Each Other

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onnecting South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers with information, resources and each other is the focus of the South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) Young Producers Event held July 30-31 at Cedar Shores Resort, Oacoma.

“Farming and ranching is an around the clock job. We design this event to give producers an opportunity to get away and glean valuable information to help them improve their operations,” explains Rocky Forman, SDFU Member Services Coordinator.

The two-day event is sponsored by SDFU – free for members and $50 for non-members. Meals and hotel accommodations are covered by SDFU, the state’s largest agriculture organization.

In addition to information from speakers, connecting with other family farmers is the reason fifth-generation Frederick farmer, Chris Sumption recommends attending the SDFU Young Producers Event.

“The exchange of ideas with other producers was as beneficial as learning from experts, explains Sumption, who attended the event with his wife, Christina. “Our farms may be located in different regions of the state, and what we raise may not be the exact same, but it seems we all face similar problems. So, it was refreshing to learn from others and realize we are not alone.”

A weekend away with Christina was something else Sumption appreciated about the event.

“It was good for our relationship. I tend to get so concentrated and caught up in farm work that I don’t make time for life. You know, our generation doesn’t go to town on Saturday night and relax like our grandparents did,” Sumption says.

Experts discuss soil health, weaning tips and more Austin Carlson, Soil Health Technician with South Dakota Soil Health Coalition, and Warren Rusche, SDSU Extension Beef Feedlot Management Associate, are among the lineup of event speakers.

“Taking time away from their farm or ranch is no simple task, so we work to make sure this investment of their time is worthwhile,” Forman explains.

Evaluating the condition of your soil: Providing farmers and ranchers with hands-on demonstrations to help them effectively gauge the condition of their soil is the focus of Austin Carlson’s presentation.

“By the end of my presentation, participants should be able to accurately gauge the condition of their soils, have a greater understanding of the importance of soil health and will be equipped with knowledge to improve soil health while meeting or exceeding their farm goals and needs,” says Carlson.

Transition from weaning to background or finishing:

Speaking from experience, Frederick farmer, Chris Sumption encourages other producers to attend the SDFU Young Producer Event.

Young Producers Continued on Page 10 8

May/June 2021

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Union Farmer New Secretary of Ag & Natural Resources Answers Producer Questions

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any S.D. Farmers Union members have questions for Hunter Roberts, the Secretary of the newly merged Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources. Read on as he answers their questions.

Jerry Petik, a third-generation Corson County rancher Question: To assist and encourage more transparency and fair prices of cattle, how do you plan to advocate at the federal level on behalf of House Concurrent Resolution 6006 passed by the 2021 S.D. Legislature?

Secretary’s Answer: The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) maintains strong relationships with Sen. Thune, Sen. Rounds, Rep. Johnson, and our partner agencies. We will continue to engage with them on these efforts. In addition, I’d encourage you to contact their offices and share your thoughts with them.

Question: Secretary Vilsack has indicated there may be an opportunity to reinstate country-of-origin labeling (COOL), what are your plans to assist him in these efforts?

Secretary’s Answer: DANR does not directly implement country-of-origin labeling (COOL) regulations. We will comply with applicable regulatory changes implemented by USDA and will continue to monitor the status of the COOL regulations. As you know, COOL was repealed in 2015 because the World Trade Organization ruled Canada and Mexico could begin imposing more than $1 billion in tariffs on U.S. products in response to the impacts COOL labeling requirements were having on them.

Question: What is your plan when it comes to getting state-inspected meat certified to cross state lines?

Secretary’s Answer: South Dakota is in the final stages of joining the Cooperative Interstate Shipping Program (CIS). The CIS program allows state-inspected plants to operate as federally-inspected facilities under

Hunter Roberts works cattle with his family. Roberts is secretary of the newly formed South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources.

specific conditions and ship their product in interstate commerce and internationally. DANR is excited about this opportunity to expand market options for South Dakota producers.

Question: What are your plans, when it comes to encouraging the development of local processing for South Dakota beef, grains and fiber (industrial hemp)?

Secretary’s Answer: In March, Gov. Kristi Noem announced she would direct $5 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds to provide grants to expand meat processing capacity in South Dakota. DANR is implementing this program and expects to begin distributing funds in early June.

Outside of this program, economic development for the processing of grains and fiber is supported by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and local economic development corporations.

Question: What are your plans when it comes to developing more foreign export markets and relationships for South Dakota products?

Secretary’s Answer: DANR works with Food Export Midwest to evaluate export opportunities and assist producers seeking to export their products. Outside of this initiative, export development is largely handled by South Dakota checkoff organizations. Additionally, the USDA Foreign Agriculture Service and the United State Trade Representative dedicate nearly all their resources to develop and grow foreign markets.

Question: We see quite a bit of state investment in research and development for precision agriculture. As a western South Dakota livestock producer, I’m interested in learning if there are plans for development of technology that is more user-friendly and

Hunter Roberts Q & A Continued on Page 10 www.sdfu.org

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Union Farmer Hunter Roberts Q & A Continued from Page 9 applicable to our climate and needs?

Secretary’s Answer: The South Dakota State University Cottonwood Field Station located between Wall and Philip has a long history of working on research and development projects specific to West River ranching activities.

In 2018, those efforts were bolstered with the addition of SDSU’s West River Research Farm near Sturgis. These facilities and SDSU’s West River Research and Extension office in Rapid City are part of the SDSU Agriculture Experiment Station research infrastructure whose goal is to enhance the quality of life in South Dakota through beneficial use and development of human, economic and natural resources. In 2021, the governor proposed, and the legislature approved $453,000 to the West River Research Farm specifically for precision ranching activities. DANR continues to support these efforts and looks forward to learning more about how producers can utilize these developments to protect the environment and

lower their costs.

For more information about SDSU’s efforts visit: https://www.sdstate.edu/south-dakotaagricultural-experiment-station-sdsu or contact their West River Research and Extension office at 605-394-2236.

Tammy Basel, Union Center sheep and cattle producer Question: Colorado State Ballot Initiative Protect Animals from Unnecessary Suffering and Exploitation (PAUSE), has some concerning repercussions for South Dakota sheep and cattle producers. If passed, animals would need to reach 25 percent of their life expectancy prior to

harvest. Cattle would have to be 5-yearsold before slaughter and sheep would need to be 2-years-old. A lamb becomes mutton about one year of age, and the eating experience is drastically different. Two of the major lamb packers are located in Colorado and a significant amount of cattle are harvested there also. In South Dakota, a measure like this would probably be easily defeated. However, if it passes in Colorado, what do you plan to do if this does pass to assist South Dakota producers?

Secretary’s Answer: We have reviewed Colorado’s PAUSE ballot initiative and strongly oppose it. I expect farm groups in Colorado will work together to ensure it does not progress.

In South Dakota, DANR is working to expand meat processing capacity across the state. In March, Gov. Kristi Noem announced she would direct $5 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds providing grants to expand meat processing capacity at our small processing facilities. DANR expects to begin distributing these funds in early June. In addition, South Dakota is in the final stages of joining the Cooperative Interstate Shipping Program (CIS). The CIS program allows state-inspected plants to operate as federally-inspected facilities under specific conditions and ship their product in interstate commerce and internationally. DANR is excited about these opportunities to expand market options for

Hunter Roberts Q & A

Continued on Page 15

Young Producers Continued from Page 8 Warren Rusche will provide producers with management suggestions to transition their cattle from weaning to the backgrounding or finishing phase as well as discuss strategies for adding value to home-raised feedstuffs.

“As summer is winding down, it is time to begin thinking about weaning calves and lining up feed supplies for the fall and winter,” Rusche says.

Register at www.sdfu.org To learn more about the 2021 Young Producers Event and register, visit www. sdfu.org and click on the Adult Programs link under the Education tab. Contact Rocky Forman, SDFU Member Services Coordinator with questions, rforman@sdfu.org or 605-3503421. ■

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Union Farmer

Participate in Farm & Ranch Families of South Dakota Photo Contest

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outh Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) calls on South Dakota farm and ranch families to participate in the 2021 growing season photo contest, Farm & Ranch Families of South Dakota. Running May 1 to Dec. 1 all who enter become eligible to win $250.

“This contest is a fun way to highlight the people behind our state’s No. 1 industry,” explains Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director. “We’re looking for photos of family members engaged in farm and ranch work – you know, tagging calves, planting soybeans, cutting hay, scouting soybeans, harvesting corn – the day-in day-out work that is South Dori Prince

Dakota agriculture.”

Contest begins May 1 To enter, simply visit www.sdfu.org May 1 or after and submit photos that highlight a farmer or rancher at work. Each photo submitted enters you into a drawing for $250. Throughout the contest, photos will be featured on SDFU website and South Dakota Farmers Union Facebook page.

“Farming is a sunrise to sunset, 365-days all day, everyday job,” says Lexi Johnson, a De Smet kindergarten teacher and farmer who won the fall 2020 photo contest drawing.

Johnson was among the many family farmers and ranchers to submit photos to the

Stephanie Austerman

Sarah Fergen

2020 contest, showcasing life on South Dakota farms and ranches.

“As a grassroots agriculture organization, we are always looking for ways to support farm and ranch families and share their stories – whether that is through policy, education, media or fun contests like this one,” Hofhenke says.

To learn more about Johnson and view a slideshow of the more than 100 contributed photos, visit www.sdfu.org and click on the Photo Contest link under the News/Events tab. ■ Stephanie Austerman

Lisa Mehlhaff

Tanna Huber

Travis Stout

Krysta Becker

Genie Lauinh

Dori Prince

Genie Lauinh

Jim Berreth

Dori Prince

Stephanie Austerman Dori Prince Amber Stout

Jenna Braun

Jessica Heupel Genie Lauinh

Danielle McGee

www.sdfu.org

Sheridan Nickolas

May/June 2021

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Union Farmer Camp Connections are Coming Back

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outh Dakota Farmers Union has finalized its day camp schedule for the year. Communities throughout South Dakota will be “Celebrating the Connections.”

“Every community plans something different, even though our lessons are the same,” explains Education Director Rachel Haigh-Blume. “In Webster, for example, we’ll have a presentation on electrical safety. In Hartford and Davison, we will be discussing 4-wheeler safety.”

Haigh-Blume adds that the communities have been especially welcoming and are excited to have youth and visitors back. While activities will again be in person, South Dakota Farmers Union will still be following Centers for Disease Control and the American Camp Association guidelines.

“We have a lot of new games that implement safety measures and are fun physical activities and icebreakers we can do outside,” says Haigh-Blume.

In addition to the fun of camp, there are many opportunities for learning too. Day camps will feature lessons on soil conservation, soil health and how soil mapping works. Groups will learn how soil mapping directly affects your seed inputs in a program called “The Dirt on Soil.”

Hands-on soil activities will allow campers to feel different soil types, like clay and silt. Younger campers will even be making dirt salads. The programs are possible through a soil conservation grant from South Dakota Agricultural Foundation.

Emily Golinsky, a Boston, Mass., trainer and consultant for Bright Moose will be discussing “Thinking Traps”.

Camp Connections Continued on Page 16

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Union Farmer

LATE ADDED CAMPS June 1 Brule Co. Camp June 29 Bon Homme Co. Camp

www.sdfu.org

Kimball Tyndall

May/June 2021

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Union Farmer Anthem Oats Adds Value to Family Farm & Connects Farmers with Consumers “I’m a big believer that value-added agriculture is what is going to save the family farmer.”

– Taylor Sumption, Brown County Farmer

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Jaceejphotography

armers are excellent problem-solvers. And that is exactly what Brown County farmer Taylor Sumption set out to do when he came up with the idea behind Anthem Oats.

“I had been looking for a way to add value to our family’s farm,” explains the fifth-generation farmer. “This idea really came out of frustration over the environment we market our commodities into. As it gets more and more consolidated, with fewer buyers, it seems today’s farmers really have two options – keep growing bigger, bigger, bigger to make things work, or you can add value to the products you grow.

“I’m a big believer that value-added agriculture is what is going to save the family farmer.”

The Sumption family has farmed in northeastern South Dakota since 1882. Since he graduated from South Dakota State University in 1996, Sumption has raised crops and cattle with his dad, John, and four brothers – Mark, Chris, Eric and Warren. In recent years, the operation has expanded to include the sixth generation.

“On our farm, we have a lot of mouths to feed. So, I was looking for a way to add value to our operation today as well as future generations who want to return to the family farm,” Sumption explains.

After nearly a decade of Owned by Sumption Farms, all farming family members have input, but Taylor and Cassie Sumption have taken the lead and focus their time and efforts in all aspects of Anthem Oats – product development, processing, packaging, marketing and sales.

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research, the commodity Sumption landed on was oats. And not just any oats, but the Rushmore variety developed by South Dakota State University.

“Oats are good for the soil. And they fit well into our farm’s crop rotation because they have a shorter growing season so we can follow them with cover crops that our cattle fall graze,” Sumption explains. He adds that there is also a yield bump to corn bushels when it follows oats in the rotation.

Anthem Oats is a farm-to-table business model. It begins with harvesting the oats they raise on their farm. Then, processing the oats locally. And shipping Anthem instant oatmeal direct to consumers and grocery stores from the warehouse they built on farmland that overlooks the Frederick ballfields and Maple River.

“Bridging the gap that has grown between farmers and consumers is an aspect of Anthem Oats that is important to us. Consumers want to know where their food comes from and our oatmeal connects them to the family who grew it,” Sumption explains. “As a commodity producer, I didn’t think about the impact getting feedback from the people eating

Anthem Oats Continued on Page 22 www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer Hunter Roberts Q & A Continued from Page 10 South Dakota producers.

Question: Because trapping is an important tool for predator management, what are your plans to protect the bounty program and encourage more youth to engage in trapping?

Secretary’s Answer: South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks manages the Nest Predator Bounty Program. The program is open to South Dakota residents, including youth hunters, through July, or until a maximum payout of $500,000 is reached. In fact, last year 16 percent of program participants were 17-years-old or younger. I hope to see these numbers continue to increase, especially, since the program is paying $10 per tail this year compared to $5 per tail last year.

In addition, DANR provides Game, Fish & Parks with $250,000 annually for animal damage control efforts. As a producer and member of the Animal Damage Control Advising Committee, I understand how important these efforts are.

Question: What does your department plan to do to promote South Dakota wool and lamb?

Secretary’s Answer: As with all agricultural products from South Dakota, DANR continues to promote the sheep industry whenever possible on social media and through the South Dakota State Fair. In addition, in March, Gov. Kristi Noem announced she would direct $5 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds to provide grants to expand meat processing capacity in South Dakota which is good for all our producers. DANR expects to begin distributing these funds in early June. Finally, South Dakota is in the final stages of joining the Cooperative Interstate Shipping Program (CIS). The CIS program allows state-inspected plants to operate as federally-inspected facilities under specific conditions and ship their product in interstate commerce and internationally. DANR is excited about these opportunities to expand market options for South Dakota producers.

Secretary’s Answer: Due to a combination of issues including the COVID-19 pandemic, staffing and an increased workload associated with renewal of the 2017 General Water Pollution Control Permit for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (General Permit), DANR is behind on CAFO inspections. This is not acceptable, and we are taking steps to meet our inspection goals moving forward.

For example, in 2019 and 2020 we moved 2.5 additional full-time employees into that program. Additionally, with the merger, two SDDA inspectors will be cross trained to conduct the onsite portion of the Operation and Maintenance inspections for permitted dairies covered under the General Permit.

Furthermore, the new Livestock Services Program has gained an agronomist who will assist in reviewing operation and maintenance records and process applications freeing up time for inspectors to be in the field. Finally, during the past legislative session, Senate Bill 52 passed allowing DANR to issue state water pollution control permits with a life cycle of 10 years rather than 5 years allowing DANR to spend less time processing permit applications and more time conducting

inspections. The new law did not change any of the other permit requirements.

Question: If they discover violations, how will the combined agencies deal with these violations?

Secretary’s Answer: As DANR’s Secretary, I expect our operators to comply with the laws and our job is to help them get and stay in compliance. If violations are found, the priority is to get the operator back into compliance. However, depending on the operator’s willingness to comply or the type of violation, DANR may follow up with a warning letter, formal enforcement action or referral to the Office of Attorney General to bring an operation back into compliance with their permit.

Question: Does the department have a plan to develop Carbon Markets?

Secretary’s Answer: DANR does not have plans to develop carbon markets in South Dakota. We are encouraged by the number of emerging private sector options, and we are monitoring USDA’s efforts on this issue.

We will continue to advocate for policies that make sense for South Dakota. ■

Craig Schaunaman, Aberdeen Crop and Cattle Producer Question: Is the DENR current with CAFO Inspections? If not, what is the plan to get current? www.sdfu.org

May/June 2021

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Union Farmer Camp Connections

Continued from Page 12

Golinsky emphasizes how our own emotions or biases can affect our thinking, judgment and interactions with others.

Speaker Malcom Chapman, Rapid City, is a long-time community leader and popular South Dakota Farmers Union fixture. Chapman will speak on diversity, relationships and having productive conversations.

Dr. Thomas Flamboe, Mental Strength Conditioning Coach from Black Hills State University, will present on the topic of healthy stress and how you can put it to work for you, instead of against you.

“We don’t talk about stress with our kids enough,” says Haigh-Blume. “Teens especially are starting to realize how many things they have on a deadline: scholarship

Camp Connections Continued on Page 17

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Union Farmer

National Farmers Union and Group of Cattle Producer Organizations Hold Historic Talks to Address Problems in Marketplace

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ational Farmers Union (NFU) r e c e n t l y joined with five other organizations that represent cattle producers to agree to work jointly on issues in the cattle marketplace.

On May 10, member leaders of American Farm Bureau Federation, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Farmers Union, R-CALF USA and the United States Cattlemen’s Association met in Phoenix, Ariz.

These groups convened at the request of Livestock Marketing Association to discuss challenges involved in the marketing of finished cattle with the ultimate goal of bringing about a more financially sustainable situation for cattle feeders and cow/calf producers.

“Unfair markets and a lack of competition in the beef industry has been extremely harmful to producers and consumers alike, especially during the last year,” says NFU President Rob Larew, who was among the participants in the meeting. “Many sectors within agriculture, including beef, are dominated by just a handful of multinational corporations. The time for action is long overdue, and NFU is glad to be a part of this effort to bring strong, swift and meaningful reform.”

The group talked openly and candidly about a wide range of important issues facing our industry today, including but not limited to: • Packer concentration, • Price transparency and discovery, • Packer oversight, • Packers and Stockyards Act enforcement, • Level of captive supply and • Packer capacity.

The group also agreed to take to their respective organizations for consideration these action items: • Expedite the renewal of USDA’s Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR), including formula base prices subject to the same reporting requirements as negotiated cash and the creation of a contract library.

•· Demand the Department of Justice (DOJ) issue a public investigation status report and as warranted, conduct joint DOJ and USDA oversight of packer activity moving forward.

• Encourage investment in, and development of, new independent, local and regional packers.

This unprecedented meeting brought together diverse producer organizations to identify issues and discuss potential solutions. These issues and action item lists are not comprehensive, due to time constraints of this meeting. Attending organization representatives were pleased to have reached consensus on many issues and are committed to the ultimate goal of achieving a fair and transparent finished cattle marketing system. ■ NFU, May 17, 2021

Camp Connections Continued from Page 16 deadlines, college deadlines and graduation tasks. We will be emphasizing how they can stay on top of it all and stay healthy.”

State Camp is planned for June 14-18 at Storm Mountain Center and will emphasize cooperatives and teamwork. It will also include the traditional Torchbearer banquet and a cooperative themed murder mystery dinner.

Campers will also have lip-sync battles, selfdefense training and take part in teamwork building. Each day will also have a holiday www.sdfu.org

theme and campers will be encouraged to celebrate connections with costumes and related activities.

Continue to watch sdfu.org and Facebook for camp updates and day camps in a community near you. ■ by Toby Kane for SDFU

May/June 2021

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Union Farmer

Recognizing Farm &

As we reflect on the women who raised us this Mother’s Day, SDFU would like to celebrate the many women who support the state’s No. 1 industry – farm and ranch moms! To learn more about the farm and ranch moms featured in this article, visit the South Dakota Farm & Ranch Families Link under the About Us tab on the Farmers Union website: www.sdfu.org.

Courtesy photo Cassie Sumption, is a Frederick, S.D., farm mom pictured here with her husband, Taylor, and their children. Front row: (left to right) Marissa, 17, Cassie, Preston, 12, Miranda, 22, and Tristan, 15. Back row: Trevor, 20, and Taylor.

CASSIE SUMPTION, Farm Mom Frederick, South Dakota

From the time she was young, Cassie Sumption knew she wanted a large family.

“I have three sisters and I always knew I would never have less than four kids,” explains the mom of five. “I come from a large family and I was always surrounded by lots of cousins all the time.”

Cassie’s grandparents farmed near Hecla, S.D., the small town where she grew up.

“My family all lived right beside each other, like the Sumptions, all within a couple miles of one another. Our holidays were just like they are now – a house full of kids at Grandma and Grandpa’s. It was crazy and fun.”

Raised by a single mom, Cassie says although she knew money was scarce, her mom, Cathy, created a home where love and fun were abundant.

“My mom is amazing. Us girls did not realize we were going without because she made up for

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it with her love,” Sumption explains. “It was not until I got to be an adult that I realized how crazy hard it was for her. Growing up we had no idea.

She never said, ‘we can’t do this or that.’ She would always make things fun, so we loved life and didn’t feel like we missed out on anything.’”

Like most of today’s farm moms, Sumption juggled an off-farm job much of the time she was raising her family. Today, her youngest is 12.

“Every stage is so fun. Even now with them getting older. It is so fun to watch them become who they are. When they were little it was fun to watch them learn new things. Teen years are a little trying sometimes, but it is fun to see them start thinking about their future and what they want to be. And finding their places in the world is so neat.”

Her children are Miranda, 22, Trevor, 20, Marissa, 17, Tristan, 15, and Preston, 12.

Sumption says she has also enjoyed witnessing each discovery and stage of life with her husband, Taylor.

“I think the most important thing, is to have Taylor to co-parent with me. I don’t know how my mom did it alone,” she says, explaining that

when it comes to discipline, Taylor is the go-to parent, but when it comes to comfort, she is the one her kids turn to. “I flip out with my emotions.

Taylor speaks with his head.”

Sumption and Taylor met during the Frederick homecoming dance. At the time, Hecla and Frederick’s football teams were co-opt.

“It’s one of those things that has worked out all these years. We have grown so much together, and we are still growing together. It’s never really over.”

She has also enjoyed raising the children on his family’s Frederick farm. “I loved watching how Taylor would take the little boys to the farm with him. They would play on the farm and they didn’t realize how much they were learning. They would watch him and I’m sure he didn’t realize how much they were learning either.”

In addition to providing her children with lots of outdoor spaces to explore, play and develop a strong work ethic, being close to Taylor’s family, especially his mom, Margaret, is something Cassie appreciates.

“She is the perfect balance. She is here in a heartbeat when I need her, but she gives us space. She is a huge blessing,” Sumption says, adding, “I have had an army of amazing women surrounding me my whole life, my mother, my grandmother, Margaret and my aunts.”

What advice do you have to share with new moms? You aren’t perfect and your kids aren’t perfect. Don’t expect them to be perfect because that doesn’t exist. And even though it’s hard to step back, as a mom we need to let them make mistakes and learn and grow from those mistakes . – Cassie Sumption, Farm Mom Frederick, South Dakota www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer

m & Ranch Moms

Courtesy photo Elsie Meeks is a ranch mom and grandma from Interior, S.D., pictured here with her husband, Jim, and their children (left to right): Billy Barquin, Justin Meeks, Jim, Elsie, Kelsie (daughter-in-law) and Luke, Amy Meeks Pisha, Dwan Kendrick, Jeremy Meeks. Not pictured is Meeks’ oldest son, JD Barquin.

ELSIE MEEKS, Ranch Mom Interior, South Dakota Elsie Meeks’ dad, Gib Peck, always used to say, “You can take a ranch kid off the ranch, and they can do anything. You bring a city kid to a ranch, and they don’t know how to do anything.”

This certainly proved true for her. Growing up the youngest of 10 children raised on a ranch near Porcupine, S.D., Meeks would go on to ranch with her husband, Jim, raise a family and build a successful career off the ranch.

In addition to their ranch, much of her resume is related to serving her Pine Ridge community. She helped start and served as the executive director of Lakota Funds, a community development financial institution. She started a grocery store and went on to work for a national non-profit, First Nations O w e e s t a Corporation, focused on helping tribes start financial institutions.

In 2015, she was recommended

by Sen. Tim Johnson and Courtesy photo appointed by Elsie Meeks is a ranch mom and President Barak grandma from Interior, S.D., picObama to serve tured here with two of her grandas the South children: Narley, 6, and Radley, 18 Dakota state months.

www.sdfu.org

What advice do you have to share with new moms? Cherish the time because it is gone in an instant. Also, I don’t think any of us think we do that great of a job. We all wonder if we could do things differently. In the end, it is love that prevails. – Elsie Meeks, Ranch Mom, Interior, South Dakota director for USDA Rural Development. Today, in addition to ranch work, she serves on the board of directors for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines.

And when she’s asked what prepared her for this career, she references her dad’s saying.

“I learned growing up on the ranch how to be adaptive because out here you have to be a mechanic, horseman and everything else.”

Of all the hats she wore growing up on the ranch, the one she and her identical twin, Ethel, loved the most was working with horses, and rodeo. The sisters loved to rodeo.

“It was the horses. Also, the thrill of the competition and really, just being around rodeo people. Rodeo becomes a real community in and of itself. Rodeo becomes a community and the other contestants become your friends,” Meeks explains.

Although Meeks and her second husband, Jim, didn’t officially meet until she was in her mid-20s, Meeks knew who he was many years earlier because of rodeo. “He was an Indian bronc rider, and we knew who all the good bronc riders were.”

Jim was in the business of putting on rodeos when they did finally meet and eventually marry.

The couple passed their love of rodeo onto their now grown children: JD, Billy, Justin, Amy,

Dwan, Jeremy and Luke. “Rodeo was all we ever did. We raised bucking bulls and horses and put on rodeos for years. Rodeo is one of those things that when your kids are competing, it’s not something you just send your kid off to do on their own,” Meeks explains. “You get to know the other parents of other kids. Those were such fun times.”

While raising her children, she shared many of the special parenting moments with her twin sister.

Meeks and Ethel were young mothers together.

Meeks had three boys and Ethel had two girls.

“Describing what it is like to be an identical twin, Courtesy photo is almost like describing Elsie Meeks with her something that is just identical sister, Ethel part of you. We were like Whitcher (deceased). one almost.”

Today, Meeks is a grandma to 13 and greatgrandma to three. When she thinks back to the days when their children were young, it is with fond and happy memories. “Being a mom brought me so much joy and now being a grandma, the joy it brings – it keeps you in the moment. And I have to say, after Ethel died, it was my grandkids who allowed me to stay in the moment and not be caught up in a black hole of grief.”

She feels especially fortunate today because their youngest son, Luke, ranches with them, so Meeks gets to spend lots of quality time with her youngest grandchildren, Narley, 6, and Radley, 18 months. “I am so blessed.” ■ By Lura Roti for SDFU

May/June 2021

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Union Farmer Rob Larew National Farmers Union President

W

hile the window to address the climate crisis narrows, lawmakers, administration officials and industry leaders are directing more energy toward finding solutions. Congress has introduced several bills that would leverage agriculture and forestry to reduce emissions and sequester carbon in the soil, including the Growing Climate Solutions Act. The White House got in on the action too, outlining its plan to conserve 30 percent of the nation’s lands and waters by 2030. As this work progresses, National Farmers Union is providing guidance and feedback as to how it can best support the work of family farmers and ranchers. Read more about it in this month’s Washington Corner.

further strengthen the credibility of carbon markets and facilitate farmers’ participation.

When the bill was introduced last June, NFU endorsed it, saying it was “an important step toward strong and comprehensive climate policy.” Upon its reintroduction NFU President Rob Larew reiterated the organization’s support. Because “there is currently no formal oversight” of carbon markets, selecting the right one can be “a confusing and overwhelming process.” The bill would “bring muchneeded clarity and certainty to this burgeoning sector, thus making it easier for farmers to obtain the financial resources they need to invest in climate solutions.”

FARMERS UNION MEMBERS ADVOCATE CLIMATE SOLUTIONS As climate change poses an increasingly serious threat to farmers’ livelihoods and global food security, a group of National Farmers Union (NFU) members are discussing meaningful legislative solutions with their elected representatives.

During virtual meetings with members of the Senate and House Agriculture Committees in May, participating Farmers Union members pushed for voluntary, incentive-based programs and market initiatives that help operations of all types and sizes implement climate-friendly practices and install onfarm renewable energy systems. To ensure such programs are executed smoothly, they also promoted robust funding for technical assistance.

The attendees of these days of advocacy sit on NFU’s Climate Change Policy Advisory Panel (CCPAP), through which they advise the organization’s climaterelated legislative work, educational programming, outreach and communications. Other Farmers Union members had an opportunity to contribute by contacting their legislators as well as by attending a webinar with administration officials about federal plans to combat the climate crisis.

BIOFUELS COALITION ARGUES BEFORE SCOTUS In April, the Supreme Court of the United States considered the legal criteria for issuing small refinery exemptions (SREs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

Known as HollyFrontier Cheyenne Refining, LLC v Renewable Fuels Association, the case was heard by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit last year. The court overturned three SREs 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 litigants, collectively called the Renewable Fuels Association, argued that the Supreme Court should affirm the decision. “The Tenth Circuit Court’s ruling is consistent with the Clean Air Act, congressional intent and the purpose of the RFS,” said the coalition before Tuesday’s arguments.

“We will continue to stand up for the farmers and renewable fuel producers across the country whose livelihoods have been harmed by abuse of the refinery exemption program.”

The Supreme Court is not expected to reach a decision for many weeks; National Farmers Union will provide updates as they are available.

GROWING CLIMATE SOLUTIONS ACT IMPROVES CREDIBILITY OF CARBON MARKETS In the middle of Earth Week, Sens. Debbie Stabenow, John Boozman and Mike Braun reintroduced the Growing Climate Solutions Act, which aims to provide certainty to farmers and ranchers seeking compensation for climate-smart agricultural practices through carbon markets.

To achieve this end, the bill would create a certification program for third-party verifiers and technical service providers that help farmers earn carbon credits to ensure they have the appropriate expertise. Information about those “UDSA certified” providers will be available to farmers via an online portal.

Additionally, the bill would establish an advisory committee composed of farmers, industry experts, scientists and representatives from private markets to make recommendations to Congress and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on how they can

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WHITE HOUSE RELEASES MORE CONSERVATION DETAILS During his first week as president, Joe Biden pledged to conserve at least 30 percent of the nation’s lands and waters by 2030. Because he provided scant information about how it intends to achieve this goal, there has been a significant amount of speculation and concern in the meantime about how it might affect the agricultural industry, which occupies about 44 percent of the United State’s landmass.

In May, the administration released a report outlining eight principles that should guide those efforts, several of which pertain to agriculture. For one, it indicates that conservation work should collaborate with and include all stakeholders including farmers and ranchers, as well as farmers, business owners, Indigenous communities, sportsmen and women.

Additionally, the report recommends that the “oversized contributions” of those communities “already make in safeguarding wildlife and open spaces” be recognized and encouraged. It also states that private property owners’ rights should be respected and that ranching should be maintained on both public and private lands.

In response, Larew said he was “glad to have clarity” on the administration’s conservation plans and was similarly “heartened” that the report “understands the valuable work that family farmers are already doing to improve soil, water and air quality and commits to advancing that work in the future.”

BIDEN HIGHLIGHTS PANDEMIC RECOVERY, FUTURE PRIORITIES During his first joint address to Congress, President Joe Biden struck an optimistic tone, highlighting the progress the United States has made on pandemic recovery and laying out his priorities for the months and years ahead.

Job creation and poverty relief were among the most common themes throughout the address; to build on improvements already made since his inauguration, President Biden introduced the American Families Plan, a comprehensive package that would invest $1.8 trillion in education, childcare, nutrition and paid leave. Larew commended provisions that would expand free school meals and summer EBT on the grounds that it would reinforce “our safety net. . . so that it can accommodate all Americans experiencing food insecurity.”

To offset the cost of the plan, President Biden is proposing an array of tax reforms, including the elimination of stepped-up basis. In an overview, the White House promised that such a change would “be designed with protections so that family-owned businesses and farms will not have to pay taxes when given to heirs who continue to run the business.”

President Biden also plans to use climate action to drive job growth. Included on the president’s list of recommendations was “farmers planting cover crops, so they can reduce carbon dioxide in the air and get paid for doing it,” an approach backed by NFU and many other farm groups. Larew said he was “glad to have an ally in the White House” and that he hoped that the statement would be followed by “immediate and aggressive action.”

Another focus of the address was immigration reform. “For more than 30 years, politicians have talked about immigration reform and have done nothing about it,” says President Biden. “It’s time to fix it.” He urged Congress to offer undocumented immigrants a path to citizenship by passing his U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021. Under the bill, farm workers would be fast-tracked for naturalization and would be granted greater protections, both of which NFU supports. ■ Current as of May 19, 2021

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Union Farmer

From the President....

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2021 Camp Attendance Record Numbers Doug Sombke, SDFU President

armers Union Camp Season is off to a record start as South Dakota’s youth are eager to reconnect with in-person fun and friends. Thank goodness! After a year of COVID-19 precautions, I can relate to the record number of youth who enrolled in all our camps this summer.

It’s time to connect in person!

Educating rural youth, their farm and ranch families and rural communities is a focus of South Dakota Farmers Union. Each year we invest in education because it is at the root of positive change. During day camps, rural youth are connected with education on farm safety basics as well as information about cooperatives and cooperating. District and state camps provide more advanced information and educational opportunities on these topics while at the same time helping youth grow in their leadership abilities. I’ve heard countless camp graduates share how when they started camp, they were shy and too scared to introduce themselves to a stranger, let alone speak in front of a group.

However, after attending a few Farmers Union camps, they were confident enough to not only give a speech in front of their peers but apply to serve on the Junior Advisory Council to help lead camp.

And these success stories are not limited to rural youth. I am one of many members who credit Farmers Union D.C. Fly-Ins with giving me the confidence to share my story and advocate on behalf of South Dakota family farmers and ranchers.

S.D. Farmers Union educates all generations. Through our Young Producer Events and educational webinars, we connect producers with experts who provide real-time advice on issues impacting today’s family farmers and ranchers.

Our focus on cooperatives also extends to adult members. In 2021, we’re sponsoring the first class of Rural POWER, directed by the Billie Sutton Leadership Institute. Learn more

about how this program connects rural South Dakotans to leadership and cooperative education on page 5.

Because of cooperatives, many of us don’t know a time without power, light and telephone. But my parents’ generation remembers. Today’s cooperatives continue to ensure that our rural communities are not left behind. They are the reason many of us farmers and ranchers have internet.

The brown outs in Texas only emphasize the value of cooperatives. The citizens who went without power were buying their power from private companies, not cooperatives.

Like the name suggests – when we cooperate, great things can happen for the good of all.

Another example of cooperating for positive change that our policy supports is South Dakotans Decide Health Care.

After our members voted on policy to support Medicaid expansion in our state, South Dakota Farmers Union joined with Avera Health, AARP, Sanford Health, South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations, South Dakota State Medical Association and others to advocate for policy that will capture federal funds to help improve our state’s medical infrastructure and expand access to healthcare for families across our state (learn more at https:// southdakotansdecide.org/).

If you’re reading this and you want to learn more about the educational opportunities SDFU provides to South Dakota youth and families, visit www.sdfu.org and click on the Education tab.

Sincerely,

www.sdfu.org

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

Doug Sombke, President South Dakota Farmers Union

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

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

sdfu@sdfu.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact NFU

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

A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

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

May/June 2021

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Union Farmer To serve you best, each Union Farmer issue will include an article from Farmers Union Insurance. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns regarding insurance, you can always reach out to your local agent. To learn more, visit fuiagency.com.

Anthem Oats Continued from Page 14 what we raise would have on me. Honestly, it has been really fulfilling to hear what the consumer has to say.”

Owned by Sumption Farms, all farming family members have input, but Sumption and his wife, Cassie, have taken the lead and focus their time and efforts in all aspects of Anthem Oats – product development, processing, packaging, marketing and sales.

“It is beyond rewarding to be working for something that is our family’s,” explains Cassie, who prior to Anthem Oats worked off the farm in customer service. “I’ve always worked

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May/June 2021

hard, but it seems like this is the hardest I’ve ever worked, and I love it.”

Initially, when the Sumptions began meeting with consultants, the Anthem Oats business model did not include marketing direct to consumers, but the COVID-19 pandemic motivated Sumption and his wife, Cassie, to add an online store.

“COVID changed everything,” Sumption says. “Instead of marketing our product through food shows, all our meetings are virtual. And since more and more consumers are shopping online, it just made sense that we would offer the product direct as well as wholesale.”

Along with opportunities, the pandemic

also introduced some supply chain challenges where ingredients and packaging materials are concerned. But the Sumptions have figured out ways to keep moving ahead.

Anthem Oats should be on grocery store shelves and ready to accept online orders July 2021.

“One thing about farmers is we are very, very, very good problem-solvers,” Sumption says. “We get problems thrown at us on a daily basis, so we develop a mindset that we can do just about anything. We just need to figure out a way.”

You can learn more about Anthem Oats and the Sumption family by visiting www. anthemoats.com. ■ by Lura Roti for SDFU www.sdfu.org

Union Farmer Thank You

Departings

I don’t know who all to thank for putting together “2020 in Review.” It is a fantastic product! I think I read every word. Through the years I wrote many booklets, periodicals, newsletters, etc. and appreciate something special.

– Tom Neuberger, McCook County

Wanted to just pass along some really amazing words we got on Instagram today from a soldier who has been getting our meals at the Armory. Hope this makes everyone smile! She followed up with: “You all really don’t know. We are being fed, but these are ‘meals.’ Sounds weird, but there is a difference.”

This was in response to the $50,000 in meals that the Farmers Union Enterprise states provided to the National Guard that are serving in Washington, D.C.

Donald A. Schaunaman, 92, of Aberdeen, SD passed away March 27, at Angelhaus in Aberdeen.

Don believed in serving his community by belonging to various agricultural organizations. These memberships allowed him to have an influential voice in agriculture. He was elected as a USDA/ASCS County Committeeman and served on the FMHA County Board. Following his father’s footsteps, he was the second generation to serve on the Northern Electric Cooperative Board. Other agricultural organizational memberships include S.D. Farmers Union, National Farmer Organization and the Brown County Crop and Livestock Association. Don also served as a School Board Member for the Riverside Country School, Aberdeen Area Red Cross Chairman and Brown County 4-H Volunteer.

Don leaves behind four children: Mark (Lana) Schaunaman of Ashley, N.D.; Kristie (Gregg) Erickson of Aberdeen; Craig (Carolyn) Schaunaman of Aberdeen, Kirk (Kim) Schaunaman of Aberdeen; 11 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

Don was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Hazel Schaunaman.

COOK’S CORNER

Egg Bake 12 eggs 1 can evaporated milk 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. pepper 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

Kathy Wahle, Salem, S.D., Lifetime Member

1 (30 oz) pkg. shredded hash browns, thawed 2 c. shredded cheese 1 med. onion, chopped 1 can mushrooms or fresh 1 c. ham, cubed

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Combine eggs, milk, salt, pepper. Stir in potatoes, cheese, onion, green pepper, mushrooms and ham. Pour into a greased 9 x 13 pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes. www.sdfu.org

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

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

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

SDFU CLIP AND SAVE CALENDAR June 1 2 2 3 3 3 7 8 8 9 11 14-18 21 22

(SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

Brule Co. Camp, Kimball Farm Safety Trailer, Ipswich Charles Mix Co. Camp, Geddes Hutchinson Co. Camp, Menno Kingsbury Co. Camp, De Smet Farm Safety Trailer, De Smet Lyman Co. Camp, Reliance Gregory Co. Camp, Gregory Gregory Co. Camp, Fairfax Farm Safety Trailer, Piedmont Yankton Co. Camp, Yankton State Camp, Storm Mountain, Rapid City Tripp Co. Camp, Colome Campbell/Walworth/Potter Co. Camp, Herreid 23 Harding Co. Camp, Buffalo 23 Clay/Lincoln Co. Camp, Tea 24 Roberts Co. Camp, Wilmot 24 Meade/Pennington Co. Camp, Union Center 25 District 2 Meeting, Pizza Ranch, Mitchell 28-30 District 3 & & Camp, Lake Bryon July 1 State office closed for holiday 5 Office closed – 4th of July 7 Aurora Co. Camp, Stickney 8 Marshall Co. Camp, Britton 12 Jerauld/Buffalo Co. Camp, Wessington Springs 12 Spink Co. Camp, Frankfort 13 Brown Co. Camp, Aberdeen 14 Minnehaha Co. Camp, Hartford 14 Farm Safety Trailer, Hartford 15 Davison Co. Camp, Mitchell 15 Farm Safety Trailer, Mitchell

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Simply Different | fumic.com J.R. Johnson ............ 725-3003 Cameron Lux ............ 229-3945 BISON Alan Voller ................ 244-7431 BISON Karen Voller .............. 244-7431 BRITTON Tom Farber ............... 448-5150 BROOKINGS Gary Ray .................. 692-6735 BROOKINGS Beth Reams ............. 690-3018 BROOKINGS Heidi Fields .............. 881-2830 BUFFALO Jenn Wickstrom ........ 375-3311 CLARK Lon Reidburn ........... 532-3299 DOLAND Mark Rozell .............. 635-6511 FAULKTON Dawn Melius............. 598-6570 ABERDEEN

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