SAUK R RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, OCT. 19, 2019 | Page 1B
Serving ru rural Benton, Morrison, Mille Lacs and a Kanabec counties
BENTON AG Plus
Sauk Rapids Herald | SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2019
SCC reaches record low Historical levels indicate a greater focus on milk quality BY JENNIFER COYNE STAFF WRITER
Rubes Sponsored by Fluegge’s Ag
FOLEY – Dairy farmers in the Upper Midwest Marketing Area are producing higher quality milk. In an analysis reviewing the values that make up milk production for Federal Order 30 in 2018, it was determined somatic cell count levels have dropped to a record low of 182,000 cells per milliliter. “The most surprising to note is the trend downward has continued for the entire time we have data,” said Dr. Corey Freije, agricultural economist with Federal Order 30. “The trend is milk is becoming a higher quality.” SCC was first tracked in 2006 when analysis was used to compare Midwest dairy farmers’ pay price to that of other federal milk marketing orders. At the time, the weighted average SCC was 280,000 with a weighted standard deviation of 133,000, meaning those surveyed were not necessarily close to the average value. Thirteen years later, SCC continues to decline with a weighted average 98,000 less than in 2006 and a weighted standard deviation of 89,000. State by state, Wisconsin
PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
Jason Smelter milks 67 cows in Benton County near Foley. The dairy farmer maintains a somatic cell count below 100,000, which he attributes to clean and dry bedding, and a consistent milking routine.
had the lowest SCC for the year at 175,000 followed by South Dakota at 185,000, Minnesota at 190,000 and Iowa at 198,000. “The trend we’re seeing is that everyone is having a lower average herd count, and the spread is more narrow,” Freije said. “We’re not seeing big
swings. Everybody is doing a better job.” Jason Smelter milks 67 cows near Foley. For the duration of his 19-year career dairy farming, Smelter has placed an emphasis on milk quality, particularly with a low SCC. On average, Smelter main-
tains a SCC below 100,000. “For me, the biggest reason to keep a low SCC is because it’s the easiest to make extra money on the milk check,” Smelter said. “With years like we’ve had, that money is there for the taking and sometimes it’s the only glimmer of hope.”
The central Minnesota dairy farmer receives about 55-60 cents per hundredweight through Bongards Creamery. When the creamery first began issuing premiums on milk quality, Smelter received $1 per cwt., he said. Across the entire federal order, Midwest dairy farmers received an average of 13 cents per cwt., for SCC under 350,000 on $16 milk, according to the analysis. However, if SCC was above the threshold, farmers were penalized and saw a deduction on their milk check. “The penalty is not big, but we always want money coming in,” Freije said. Rewarding dairy farmers for low SCC came in 2009 when the European Union created a standard for milk quality which dropped the United States’ maximum SCC from 750,000 to 400,000. Additionally, for Federal Order 30 to fairly compare to Federal Orders 32 and 33 – Central and Mideast, respectively – milk components need to be evaluated. “We don’t have Class I utilization, so one of the ways we look to see farmers are receiving the federal order minimum is to look at test values and see farmers get paid roughly the same based on quality,” Freije said. “And part of that quality is SCC.” The formula to create the milk price has since included a small adjuster to consider SCC.
Smelter page 3B
FALL DISCOUNTS ON HAY EQUIPMENT Kuhn Knight 8141 Slinger, 800 bu., newer hammers, good augers, radial tires - $29,900
Rental manure spreaderss e available
FLUEGGE’S AG
ROD FLUEGGE “the boss” Farm Material Handling Specialist 2040 Mahogany St., Mora, MN WWW.FLUEGGESAG.COM 320-679-2981 BA-42-1B-JW
Page 2B | SATURDAY, OCT. 19, 2019 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
BENTON AG
Juetten improves beef operation with AGRI grant
PROFESSIONAL DESIGN.
REASONABLE RATES.
EFFECTIVE DRAINAGE
Investment increases property efficiency BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER
Bill Pasche, Sales & Design Cell: 320-293-6951 bill@agtechdrainage.com
Gene Mensen, Sales Cell: 320-429-1036 gene@agtechdrainage.com
Brad Herickhoff, Owner Office: 320-351-4872 Cell: 320-293-0882 brad@agtechdrainage.com
Mark Machart, Sales Cell: 320-429-4633 mark@agtechdrainage.com
Sam Lange, Sales & Site Manager Cell: 320-232-3102 sam@agtechdrainage.com
and Discover the versatility metal s durability of Metal Sale ls roof and wall pane
BUILDIN RELATIONSHGIP S WITH HOMETOWN SERVICE
Classic Clas Cl assiic Ri as Rib ib
If it’s time to cover your home, ome, barn, shed, utility building or any other project, metal panels are the durable and sustainable choice. Metal Sales Classic Rib and Pro-Panel II roof and wall panels are available in a wide selection of ENERGY STAR® listed colors and standard trims.
Pro-Panel II
A 45 year finish warranty makes Classic Rib and PrPanel II Panels a durable and economical option for just about any metal roof or wall project.
HILLMAN – Last winter, BethyJo Juetten had a lot on her shoulders as she operated her 20 acre farmstead near Ramey. In the heaping snow and blowing winter winds, Juetten faced daily chores with a headlamp and a hose. “It would take me about an hour to water everything from a garden hose,” Juetten said. “Then, I had to roll the hose up and bring it into the basement to make sure it didn’t freeze.” This winter, Juetten expects that weight to be lifted. With assistance from a Livestock Investment Grant, Juetten has improved the efficiency of her farm. Over the last six months, Juetten has updated fencing and created a pasture management system, as well as installed electricity to a large shed, which she uses to shelter her herd growing herd of 20 registered Angus beef. The final portion of her improvement project will be to add a roof on the cattle’s lean-to. “It’s going to make life so much easier, hopefully,” Juetten said. “That’s my anticipation anyway – to be able to
PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
BethyJo Juetten, owner of Juetten’s Oakwood Angus, talks about the benefits of high tensile fencing Oct. 16 near Ramey. Juetten made improvements at her beef operation with the help of an AGRI Livestock Investment Grant from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
focus on other things. The to-do list as a farmer never gets shorter, but when you keep doing the same things over and over again, it makes you question why you’re doing it. The markets haven’t been all that great the last few years either. So, if it’s easier, you’re more likely to keep farming through the tougher times.” The Agricultural Growth, Research and Innovation program’s Livestock Investment Grant is administered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Applicants may apply for up to 10% reimbursement of project costs that invest in facilities, infrastructure and equipment on livestock operations. Juetten’s Oakwood Angus was one of 86 Minnesota operations awarded
Oak Park Creamery is now handling . . . Green Meadows Premium Chopped Grass Forage & Equal Balance Low Starch Grass Forage HUBBARD • HEIM’S • PURINA & OAK PARK FEEDS
Complete feed for cattle, chicken, pigs, horses, low-carb horse feed, dog & cat food, corn/oats and custom mixed ration. FOOD PRODUCTS: Bongard’s Cheese and Butter, Schwan’s Ice Cream & Treats, Hope Creamery Butter and Heggie’s Pizza
Oak Park 240 Main Street, Foley, MN 56329 320-968-6291 • www.foleylumber.com
BUILDING CENTER
Co-op Creamery
16623 Ironwood Road NE Oak Park, MN
Store hours: M-F 8 to 5 & Sat 8 to 12
BA42-1B-KB
HUBBARD, HEIMS & PURINA FEEDS
320.968.7864 BA42-1B-KB
grants for improvements executed in 2019. When Juetten purchased her farmstead seven years ago, the existing fence was a mixture of woven and barbed wire. “It was a lot of maintenance,” Juetten said. “When I started getting into cows, the cows liked to push the limits on the fence. I installed an electric (fence) on the inside of it, but it seemed like it was at least once a week that I was fixing something fence related.” Being the sole person responsible for the farmstead, Juetten explored fencing options which could benefit her workload. She landed on a five-strand high tensile fence which can be maintained by an inline ratcheting system. Juetten has also electrified alternating wires for added enclosure benefits. Juetten chose continuous fencing for its strength in areas where cattle are sorted or are in close confines. “A good fence usually means you’re a good neighbor, so for me, this was kind of the big thing,” said Juetten, who is employed by Stearns County in the agriculture and water resources division. “I work (away from the farm) full time so being able to be at work without worrying about fence makes farming a lot less stressful.” Fencing will also help Juetten manage her pastures and the water quality of the creek that
Juetten page 3B
BENTON AG
from front
n “The adjuster is meant d to be small,” Freije said. e “But, they wanted to crea ate an incentive where d if farmers improved the quality of their milk, they f would get more money.” n While cents on the d dollar were miniscule e compared to components e where butterfat was $9.92 I per cwt., and protein was c $5.16 per cwt., in 2018, , SCC premiums have proven to hold value on dairy t operations. g “It really comes down to the milk price and e present dairy situation,” r Smelter said. “What’s left n are better dairy managers and an average lower r SCC.” d In the analysis, Freije h categorized SCC by n monthly milk production. The report indicated . farms producing 5 million d pounds of milk or more r each month had a lower . average SCC. “One of the things h larger farms can do is take e the infected animal out of e the milking string and return her after treatment,” e Freije said. “In that regard, a because of hospital pens, , herd averages go down.” g Like many dairy o farmers, Smelter works through the occasional e spike in SCC caused by chronic mastitis cases ofy ten seen in the summer e months. He will initially k treat a cow and then det cide to remove the quarter t or cull the animal if problems reoccur. o Smelter combats furr ther incidences by mainr taining clean, dry stalls for t his lactating herd, and also focuses on a consistent
milking routine amongst him and his two part-time employees. The herd is bedded with straw, and stalls are coated with an antibacterial powder twice daily before milking. Once a year, Smelter has scheduled maintenance done on the milking equipment and makes repairs when necessary. “When it comes down to it, I look for consistency and hope for the best,” Smelter said. “The incentive to have a low SCC is there, and I’ve found a feasible way to reach that on my farm.” Freije agreed. “If anything, we expected a pause in dropping SCC or bottoming out, but we really aren’t seeing
Dairy cows need 30-50 gallons of fresh, clean water per day so make sure you have a Ritchie Waterer to get this done.
TWINE & NET WRAP
“You have to set goals WE REPAIR: Hydraulic Hoses and explain them in detail WE CARRY: • Minerals and you have to keep • Oil • Deer Blocks track of your paperwork • Grease • Agsential Feeds and deadlines,” she said. •G Grass Seeds • Ice Cream • Crystalyx C • Butter But for Juetten, the • TTubs • And Much More! benefits exceed the work. The grant was the catalyst she needed to make efficiency changes in her Stop in or call to purchase thee operation. & best waterer for your farm! “Would have the SALE! improvements happened OCT. & NOV. s, as fast without the grant? 7 Units to rent. We also have Ag bags, e. Probably not,” Juetten Bunker covers, Bale wrap, and Twine. said. “You get reimbursed $ 5/barrel 10% of expenses, so it definitely helps as far as FORAGE INOCULANTS SAVE $60/ton that is concerned, but it is Sunrise now carries on Stockmaster also the push to make the AGsentials Feeds & Min-Tech Minerals improvements.” for Chicken, Goats and Rabbits! Call us for more info! Real Tuff that,” he said. “The management on dairy farms Equip. has gotten a lot better.” A FIVE STAR SOLUTION Dealer In the coming years, Freije anticipates simiwww.sunriseagcoop.com lar analysis to indicate DIVISIONS: the trend continuing with 9361 Creamery Dr., Buckman • 468-6433 higher quality milk and Hwy. 27, Lastrup • 468-2543 lower SCC.
MINERAL
SAVE
BA42-1B-KB
Smelter
them; it was very time consuming.” With outlets, lights and current in the building, Juetten is excited for opportunities electricity will bring to her operation. Juetten would like to use automatic and insulated waterers, and she plans on looking into camera options to allow her to monitor her animals from afar. Juetten said there is time involved in the grant process and producers should thoroughly explore costs so they have an accurate understanding of their investment.
8’ • 9’ • 10’ AG-BAG RENTALS
Hwy. 25, Little Rock • 584-5147 14395 Hwy. 25, Pierz • 468-2168
TK Timber Turning your logs into USEABLE lumber.
• Log sawingyour site or ours • Bobcat work • Excavating and site prep services
320-266-4909 www.tk-timber.com Veteran owned company
DYNAMIC COMMAND™:
GIVES “POWERSHIFT” A NEW MEANING.
BA42-1B-KB
runs through her property. She previously had an open pasture and has redesigned into a paddock system. Juetten will be able to separate and rotate her cattle, sustaining grasses. Electricity was outdated and scarce on the farm until this past September. The large shed lacked power, so Juetten was left doing chores and calving in March and April by a headlamp, flashlights and construction lights powered by a 200-foot extension cord connected to her home’s garage. “When you’re trying to push snow, it’s not the most ideal situation to have electrical cords strung out,” Juetten said. “I’d have to pick them up when I was done with
PEOPLE...PRODUCTS...KNOWLEDGE...
WE HAVE 4 CERTIFIED CROP ADVISORS
A NEW WORLD DEMANDS NEW HOLLAND.
The word “powershift” isn’t adequate to describe the NEW industry-leading T6 Dynamic Command™ transmission. With this 3-range, 8-step transmission, you get a full 24 gears in both forward and reverse. You’ll breeze through a full day of intense work with smooth, uninterrupted power and a host of new time-saving functions.
To help serve your seed, application, fertilizer, precision and AgChem needs. Stop in or give us a call for more information! Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC 16250 HWY 10 NW Royalton, MN
(320) 584-5520
• A true power shuttle with 3 aggression levels to match your needs • Dynamic StartStop for smooth, no-clutch loader work or transport - just press the brake to come to a standstill, release to put the tractor in motion • Kick Down for the most rapid acceleration when you press the throttle Learn more about these 95 to 120 PTO HP tractors at www.newholland.com SAUK CENTRE, MN 320-352-6543 Hwy. 71 South BA42-1B-KB
from page 2B
AGRI Livestock Investment Grant proposals are being accepted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture through 4 p.m. Dec. 18. Information and applications can be found at https://www.mda.state.mn.us/ business-dev-loans-grants/agri-livestockinvestment-grant.
BA14-1B-BP
Juetten
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, OCT. 19, 2019 | Page 3B
PIERZ, MN 320-468-2161 Hwy. 27 West
www.modernfarmequipment.com
© 2018 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. “New Holland” is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. “Equipped For A New World” is a trademark in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. BAOct19_1B_JW
Page 4B | SATURDAY, OCT. 19, 2019 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, OCT. 19, 2019 | Page 5B
BENTON AG
LET’S TALK AG Community land solutions
Residential, Commercial and Government Land Surveying
When Foley Hardware came up for sale two years ago, Neil Larsen and Basil Meixell – the owners of Koch’s Hardware in Milaca – knew Foley was the right fit for a second store. Brothers-in-law Neil and Basil carry on a third-generation history of service that began in 1947 in Foreston by Vern and June Koch. With their passion for retail hardware, Foley Hardware Company has blossomed into a go-to resource for everything home in the community. Combining the buying power of two stores allows Foley Hardware Company and Koch’s Hardware to offer a wider selection, better pricing and exciting promotions.
DeďŹ ne your line.
218-445-5430 HWY. 10 • VERNDALE, MN www.aldrichtractor.com
If you’re looking for ways to spruce up your home, you’ll love the new paint department – new palettes, new tools and a wide variety of paint choices for every budget and every room. For every project, you’ll find twice as many items in the plumbing, electrical and hardware departments.
Connecting communities through innovative land solutions.
• Scents • Blocks • Clothing • Boots & more!
Another great addition has been the expanded farm, bird and pet selection with a wide variety of great products like d wild bird Nutrisource pet food and treats, Performance Seed food and other high-quality brands to keep every indoor or outdoor pet happy.
We carry
GET YOUR LICENSES
HERE!
are When seasons change, so do Koch’s Hardware us and Foley Hardware Company. Their famous garden center and lawn and garden departmentt e with new products, affordable quality and wide selection transitions to everything fall and winter,r, e including wood pellets by the bag and pallet, ice melt, gloves and winter wear.
RED WINGS!
The Insurance Shoppe Foley | 320-968-6217 415 Dewey St, Foley, MN 56329
Rakes, Lawn Bags, Trimmers and more! We are a Full Service Stihl Power Equipment Dealer
Cornerstone Insurance St. Stephen | 320-202-8920 1 Main St. W, St. Stephen, MN 56375 Hanneken Insurance Little Falls | 320-632-6592 501 Broadway E, Little Falls, MN 56345
190 Glen St., Foley MN
(320) 968-7262 BA-42-1B-KB
On a farm, you don’t work 9 to 5. Neither do we.
Brake Fluid, 1 Gal
FLEET SUPPLY
Get your Propane tanks filled here! Available at all Fleet Supply Stores
Let a local independent agent help you cover all you’ve worked so hard to build.
WAR414
Mimbach Fleet Supply
Is proud to be an employee owned hardware, power equipment and farm store serving Minnesota and the Midwest since 1952!
Call or stop in today!
10005
1162005
WAR121
Prices Good Oct. 18-24, 2019 Hunting & Fishing Licenses Available At All Locations!
No Cash...No Problem. Charge It!
Hwy. 27 E., Little Falls • 320-632-9240 HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY 8 A.M. - 8 P.M. SUNDAY 9 A.M. - 5 P.M.
• SAUK CENTRE 864 Main Street Sauk Centre, MN 56378 • ALBANY 140 5th Street Albany, MN 56307
SUB-COMPACT
RELIABLE, POWERFUL, EASY TO OPERATE
• ST. CLOUD 3801 North 3rd Street St. Cloud, MN 56303
• PIERZ 205 Main St N Pierz, MN 56364
• MELROSE 502A E Main St. Melrose, MN 56352
320-252-6650 |advantageoneins.com
The perfect â€œÂżrst stepâ€? tractor for homeowners and AG-lifestylers who need a hardworking, versatile small tractor to handle the chores a garden tractor just can’t.
THE GILMAN CREAMERY IS THE EXCLUSIVE DEALER OF THE
MIMBACH
HITCH
WWW.MIMBACHFLEET.COM
10% OFF
ALL FENCING INSULATORS
SAUK CENTRE, MN
320-352-6543 • Hwy. 71 South
FALL CHECK LIST
livestock AGRI-SPEED • Miraco waterers • Gallagher fencing • Safeguard dewormer SAVING TIME IS SAVING $$$ • ADM & Purina protein tubs Feed Specialist on hand all day, every day • Wood shavings
ALL BALE FEEDERS
3355 QUAIL RD NE SAUK RAPIDS, MN 888.276.3889 320.250.1682
Call Today 1-844-262-2281 810 Mayhew Lake RD, NE. St Cloud, MN 56379
320.251.6700
ROASTED SOYBEANS WE CAN CUSTOM ROAST YOUR GRAINS INCLUDING BARLEY, CORN, WHEAT, OATS & SOYBEANS
$30.00 $30 .00 OFF
FLEET SUPPLY
18-LTA-42
SAFETY ALWAYS ON THE ROAD AND IN THE FIELDS! •Make this a safe harvest by turning on your lights • Disengage power before unplugging or cleaning equipment • Keep your eyes open for people, animals and vehicles
• HOLDINGFORD 580 Main St. Holdingford, MN 56340
• LONG PRAIRIE 9 Central Ave Long Prairie, MN 56347
Sales | Service | Parts | Rental
Reiny Hanneken - Manager 401 S. Main St. | Pierz, MN • 320-468-2516
WORKMASTER™ 25S
WB25UN2G
WB25UN5P
T590
100+ Used Units in Stock! LTA42_1B_KB
190 Glen St., Foley MN
(320) 294-5544
2.27 $ 2.57 $ 5.87 $ 8.37 $ 17.07 $ 40.77 $ 21.07
Check Out Our Other Agents
We have all you need for your fall
12500 MN-23 Milaca, MN
ST. CLOUD | DASSEL | WILLMAR | LONG PRAIRIE
Hanneken Insurance Pierz | 320-468-6177 238 Main St., Pierz, MN 56364
(320) 968-7262 9
12500 MN-23, Milaca, MN
$
Insuring your farms and homes since 1902
20LB PROPANE REFILL - $9.99
(320) 294-5544
POSF0082
(320) 249–2164 Scott@CommunityLandMN.com
LTA42-1B-KB
Scott Marlin, LS LTA42-1B-JW
ALDRICH TRACTOR
Now that’s a solution.
Meet your new herd-feeding workhorse. The BPX9010 is ready to bring simplicity, durability and versatility to your farm or ranch. Ready to distribute uniform windrows along bunk lines or out in the pasture. Ready to spread bedding with consistency and accuracy at ranges up to 50 ft (15.2 m). Ready Meet your new herd-feeding workhorse. TheIt’s BPX9010 is ready to simplify the process of processing bales. ready. Are you? to bring simplicity, durability and versatility to your farm or ranch. Ready to distribute uniform windrows along bunk lines or out in the pasture. Ready to spread bedding with consistency and accuracy at ranges up to 50 ft (15.2 m). Ready Vermeer and the Vermeer logo are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries. Š 2018 Vermeer Corporation. All Rights Reserved. t i lif th f i b l It’ d A ?
The additions don’t stop there. You’ll find an entirely new section of Milwaukee power tools with the best pricing in central Minnesota; anything the store doesn’t stock can be ordered and shipped within days. A new selection of power tool accessories and hand tools will keep your project moving without delay.
LTA42-1B-TV
An extensive store remodel has allowed expansion of all product lines in the store – even community favorites like Stihl and Redwing – and a very large addition to their Speed Queen, Maytag and Whirlpool appliances.
Polar Starting Fluid, 11 oz Carb & Choke Cleaner, 11 oz Polar 50/50 Ready Mix Antifreeze, 1 Gal Polar Full Strength Antifreeze, 1 Gal Universal Transmission Fluid, 2 Gal Universal Transmission Fluid, 5 Gal
From estate planning to platting to simple lot boundary locations, we can help. We understand that land ownership is one of the largest investments people make. It is our livelihood, our home and much of who we are. This is why we work with your Attorney and Title Professionals to insure your land boundary and land title is correct and secure.
PIERZ, MN
320-468-2161 • Hwy. 27 West
www.modernfarmequipment.com
• Generators • Wood pellets • Heaters • Milk house heaters • Bar & chain oil • Farm lubricants • Grease
With the harvest being a little difficult this year you may be running out of silage, please contact one of our many feed specialists at the Gilman Creamery, we are here to get your animals fed the very best at a price you can afford. We are here to help you! Let's all work together to make this harvest season a successful one regardless of the weather!
WIDE SELECTION OF HAVEN UTILITY GRAIN SAVER AUGERS IN STOCK!
Gilman Co-op Creamery
Open M-F 7:30-7, Sat. 7:30-5, Sun. 8:30-1
FEED & FARM SUPPLY STORE
Good service - fair prices - every day
Experienced Farm Succession and Estate Planning FARM SUCCESSION PLANNING REAL ESTATE LAW BUSINESS LAW
Gilman, MN 320-387-2770
WWW.GILMANCREAMERY.COM
Central Minnesota’s Choice
ESTATE PLANNING
Bethany Cross
Stefanie Brown
guardianship & conservatorship LTA-june15-WS
Page 6B | SATURDAY, OCT. 19, 2019 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
Conservation tillage conference in St. Cloud The University of Minnesota Extension along with Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District is hosting the 2019 Conservation Tillage Conference Dec. 1718 at the Holiday Inn Conference Center in St. Cloud. Roll up your sleeves for practical, hands-on information that will save you soil, time, fuel and money. This conference emphasizes proven farmer experience and applied science. Straight from the fields, learn how heavier, colder soils are not necessarily the challenge they are made out to be. Hear from long-time no-till, reduced tillage and cover crop farmers as they share their experiences so you can be spared the same hard-learned lessons. T h i s conference is geared for both the experienced and novice growers and consultants. C o n f e r e n c e highlights include: - Reduced till, no-till and cover crop strategies straight from veteran farmers. - Proven cover crop strategies for your system to anchor nutrients and soil and manage moisture extremes. - Economics of soil management systems. - Weed species shift and control. Nutrient management in highresidue systems. - Beginning and advanced strip till
BENTON AG
Six compete at state 4-H horse show
BY NATHAN DREWITZ University of MN Extension
sessions. - Vendor sessions about new equipment, products and technology. Informal table talk sessions will allow time to interact with speakers and industry. Two expert panel sessions will discuss using multiple methods to improve soil health and their bottom line as well as tricks they have learned over the years. Panels include conservation farmers, skilled crop consultants and experienced livestock producers. The two-day conference will open with keynote speaker David Lobb from the University of Manitoba. Lobb has researched the economic impact of wind erosion across Manitoba and western Minnesota. More than 20 vendors representing equipment, products and services will be on-site throughout both days. Attendees who stay for the entire conference will be offered 12 continuing education units. For more information or to register online, visit http://z.umn.edu/ DIGtheCTC or call 320235-0726, Ext. 2001.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
2019 Minnesota State 4-H Horse Show participants MacCayle Kobluk (left), of Rice, and Marley Wheeler, of Foley, hold their ribbons in September at the state fairgrounds in St. Paul. Both are freshman in high school.
Benton County participants place in top 10 FOLEY – Six Benton County 4-H members competed at the 2019 Minnesota State 4-H Horse Show Sept. 13-16 at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul. 4-H participants must have completed sixth grade and won a trip via the county fair to compete at the state level. Youth who participate in the 4-H horse project learn about show, trail or endurance riding; test horse knowledge at quiz bowls or on judging teams, and study horse science. The horse training project is designed to help advanced riders train an untrained horse through a five-step process. Youth may participate if they own or lease a horse, and if they do not have access to a horse may enroll in the horseless horse project. As part of the state horse show, 4-Hers demonstrate skills and knowledge in hippology, horse judging and horse training. They also gain experience in speech and demonstrations as they explain their interest in horses, the horse industry and their showmanship skills.
Benton County 4-H state horse show results • • • • • •
Paige Easterlund, of Avon, earned seventh place in hunt seat pleasure. Gabrielle Johnson, of Foley, earned ninth place in poles. Grayson Kobluk, of Rice, earned seventh place in key race. MacCayle Kobluk, of Rice, earned second place in both barrels and jumping figure eight. Marley Wheeler, of Foley, earned eighth place in poles and ninth place in jumping figure eight. Brittney Wannarka, of St. Joseph, earned fifth place in showmanship.
BA42-1B-TV
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, OCT. 19, 2019 | Page 7B
BENTON AG
Food growers, purchasers come together at seminar grew their Join the farm market University to include o f grocery Minnesota stores, Extension restaurants for the and nationSmall Farm w i d e and Local shipments. F o o d s T h e s e Marketing BY KATIE DREWITZ farmers will Seminar share their University of Nov. 7 successes MN Extension at the and hard Tuscan Center in St. lessons learned along the Cloud. This event brings way. Their hope is that together food growers you can learn from their and purchasers to provide trials. Then, you will tangible steps to help work through building a grow your own local food brand for your business market. Registration is and the steps it takes to available at http://z.umn. maintain a strong brand. edu/localfood. You probably know The event kicks off that connecting with your with registration at 8 consumers in person and a.m. Three producers online is key to growing will present on how they your business, but
MIDWEST CLASSIFIED NETWORK To reach 9 states with your classified call 320-251-1971 Keep America Great! One FREE Flag Per Household. Claim yours today at www.FreeTrumpFlag.org and show your support for Trump 2020 www.FreeTrumpFlag.org. (MCN)S-42
Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. 1-844-316-8876. (MCN) S-42
CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer. Competitive Offer! Nationwide FREE Pick Up! Call Now For a Free Quote! 888-366-5659 (MCN)S-42
BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 855-824-1258. (MCN) S-42
DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CALL 1-855-977-7030 (MCN) S-42 Get DIRECTV! ONLY $35/ month! 155 Channels & 1000s of Shows/Movies On Demand (w/SELECT All Included Package.) PLUS Stream on Up to FIVE Screens Simultaneously at No Additional Cost. Call 1-844-245-2232 or satellitedealnow.com/MFCP. (MCN)S-42
figuring that out can be challenging. The seminar will have two social media track options. You can take social media for the beginner and figure out how to get started with an online presence. If you have already kicked off your social media platforms, but you want to dig in and learn how to harness it better, track two will be for you. You will walk away with the knowledge of how to make the biggest impact. You will also learn a bit about building a successful email campaign. After lunch, purchasing businesses will discuss what it takes to be a grower for them. If your goal is to be a grower for the restaurant or grocery store down the street, this panel is for you. The day will conclude with a resource round table. You get to choose the organizations you want to learn more
Trailer Sale: 45 different Aluminum & Steel utility trailers; Skidloader trailers; Special: Aluminum 3 horse slant & 14’ Livestock trailers; New 6’X12’ Cargo $3,199.00; 18 Models of DUMP trailers; Master Tow Dollies: For information & PRICES goto www. FortDodgeTrailerWorld.com 515-972-4554. (MCN)S-42
58%
of Facebook users say they have taken a break from the social media network for several weeks or more in the last year. SOURCE Pew Research Center survey of 3,413 Facebook users.
Let us help you customize your farm Call Randy or Derek Today! Free Estimates ates • Free Delivery Locally Owned and Operated
• Residential • Agricultural • Light Commercial • Drafting St. Martin, MN • www.lifestylelumber.com • 320-548-3459 • 800-699-9774
CHARITY. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details. 855-752-6680 (MCN) S-42
helped over a million families find senior living. Our trusted, local advisors help find solutions to your unique needs at no cost to you. Call 1-888-894-7038 (MCN)S-42
Book Your Flight Today on United, Delta, American, Air France, Air Canada. We have the best rates. Call SAVE ON YOUR NEXT PRE- today to learn more 1-855SCRIPTION! World Health 725-6305 (MCN)S-42 Link. Price Match Guarantee! Prescriptions Required. Denied Social Security CIPA Certified. Over 1500 Disability? Appeal! If you’re medications available. 50+, filed for SSD and deCALL Today For A Free Price nied, our attorneys can Quote. 1-866-710-6889 Call help get you approved! No money out of pockets! Now! (MCN)S-42 Call 1-866-276-3845 (MCN) VIAGRA and CIALIS US- S-42 ERS! 60 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00. FREE Shipping! FREE AUTO INSURANCE 100% Guaranteed. 24/7 QUOTES for uninsured CALL NOW! 888-297-2414 and insured drivers. Let us Hablamos Espanol (MCN) show you how much you can save! Call 855-648S-42 7642. (MCN)S-42 FARMERS, LANDSCAPRENOVAERS or GARDENERS, did BATHROOM you or a loved one use TIONS. EASY, ONE DAY upRoundup Weed Killer and dates! We specialize in safe were diagnosed with NON- bathing. Grab bars, no slip HODGKINS LYMPHOMA flooring & seated showers. (Cancer)? You may be en- Call for a free in-home con855-836-2250 titled to compensation. Call sultation: Attorney Charles Johnson (MCN)S-42 1-800-535-5727. (MCN) STEEL ARCH BUILDINGS – S-42 Heavy Galvalume® steel. NEW AUTHORS WANTED! 25 yr. warranty. Made in Page Publishing will help USA. Clearance models you self-publish your own 25×40, 30×50, 40×60, book. FREE author submis- 50×100, 60×140. Great for sion kit! Limited offer! Why Hay, equipment, grain. wait? Call now: 855-623- AgriBilt Building Systems (800) 480-2458. (MCN)S-42 8796 (MCN)S-42
CASH paid for your unwanted Inogen or Respironics portable oxygen concentrators! Call NOW for top-dollar offer. Agents available 24/7. No CPAP/ TANKS. 833-985-0348. (MCN)S-42
the Helpline 855-238-4594 1-877-304-0870 (MCN)S-42 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Eastern) FDA-Registered Hearing (MCN)S-42 Aids. 100% Risk-Free! 45FOR SALE: 2016 John Deere Day Home Trial. Comfort Combine– Model S670, ex- Fit. Crisp Clear Sound. If cellent condition, 600 sepa- you decide to keep it, PAY rator hours, well equipped. ONLY $299 per aid. FREE Located in Southern Minne- Shipping. Call Hearing Help sota. 507-236-6538 (MCN) Express 1- 855-548-9854. (MCN)S-42 S-42
COMPUTER ISSUES? FREE DIAGNOSIS by GEEKS ON SITE! Virus Removal, Data Recovery! 24/7 EMERGENCY $20 OFF ANY SERVICE with coupon 42522! Restrictions apply. 1-844-938- For Sale: 2004 Freightliner Columbia 120 60 Series De0797. (MCN)S-42 troit Engine 14L 500HP, 10 Over $10K in Debt? speed auto shift transmisBe debt free in 24 to 48 sion, near new tires 1998 months. No upfront fees to Merritt 43 foot grain trailer, enroll. A+ BBB rated. Call air ride, good tires $30,000 National Debt Relief 855- for both. Located in Rock Rapids, IA. Call 712-470995-1557. (MCN)S-42 4386. (MCN)S-42 Attention all homeowners in jeopardy of Foreclosure? ATTENTION: OXYGEN USWe can help stop your ERS! The NEW Inogen One home from foreclosure. G5. 1-6 flow settings. DeThe Foreclosure Defense signed for 24 hour oxygen helpline can help save your use. Compact and Lighthome. The Call is abso- weight. Get a Free Info lutely free. 1-866-850-1384 kit today: 844-852-7448 (MCN)S-42 (MCN)S-42
Spectrum Triple Play! TV, Internet & Voice for $99.97/ mo. Fastest Internet. 100 MB per second speed. Free Primetime on Demand. Unlimited Voice. NO CON- Struggling With Your PriTRACTS. Call 1-855-577- vate Student Loan Pay7502 (MCN) S-42 ment? New relief programs can reduce your payments. DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Learn your options. Good Channels + $14.95 High credit not necessary. Call
about and the resources they have available to help make you more successful. If you have questions or would like more information, contact seminar host and extension educator Katie Drewitz at 320-255-6169, Ext. 1 or at wins0115@ umn.edu.
BA24-tfnB-TV
Attendees will learn to market products
Still paying too much for your MEDICATION? Save on medications such as Lipitor, Advair, Diskus, Eliquis, etc! Receive free shipping on 1st order – RX required. Call DONATE YOUR CAR TO A PLACE FOR MOM has
Meet singles right now! No paid operators, just real people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages and connect live. Try it free. Call now: 855-6510114. (MCN)S-42
DO WARM WINTERS SOUND GOOD?? Bring your RV down to the warm Rio Grande Valley. J-5 RV Park in Mission Tx. will welcome you with a country setting, friendly people and lots of activities to keep you busy. We have a special for first time visitors. Phone us at 956-682-7495 or 515-4183214. Email info@j5rvparktexas.com Tom and Donna Tuttle, Managers (MCN) S-42
WANT TO PURCHASE MINERALS and other OIL/ GAS INTERESTS. Please send details to: P.O. Box 13557, Denver CO 80201 (MCN)S-42
BENTON AG
Cow recognition
Crop farmers are not the only ones benefiting from high tech gadgetry. Animal agriculture is about to get some really neat stuff, too. I know dairy farmers who can recognize their cows, and in smaller dairies they can even call them by name. They know them by color pattern, body BY ROGER STROM characteristics and often by The Business of Farming the udder. But how many of them can identify them by their face? There are now several companies, including Cainthus Ireland Ltd. based in Dublin, that are working to perfect animal facial recognition technology. The goal is to help dairy farmers lower their costs, increase production and monitor animal health. All part of a company strategy to expand the use of digitization and technology in food production. Apparently, cows, like humans, have unique facial features and marks that make it possible to identify them and track their movement and behavior. By using barn cameras, sensors and sophisticated imaging analysis they can tell if an animal is not moving around enough or has changed its typical eating or drinking patterns – all warning signs of an illness that could impact milk production, reproduction or overall health. If a cow is having trouble, the system sends an alert to the farmer’s computer or mobile phone. For example, if she is calving in the middle of the night and is under stress, a farmer would know immediately and have time to get to the barn and save the calf. So how much is all this going to cost you? The hardware costs $38 to $50 per animal. The data and analytics cost an additional $50 per animal per year. The engineers will come to your farm and spend a few days to install cameras. Then the computers go to work recording each cow’s patterns and movements. After several weeks of gathering information on each animal, the system will be able to identify each animal and the individual patterns and movements of a specific cow to establish a benchmark. As you might imagine, working with animals has had its challenges. According to Cainthus President David Hunt, “Any way you can think that an animal with no hands could possibly cause problems with a camera – the cows did that. [And the cows found] a whole bunch of other ways they could mess with the cameras that would never occur to any sane person ever.” Cows have tried to hide, licked cameras and untied equipment cables with their tongues. My favorite story: One of the technicians tried to photograph pigs. He thought feeding time would be a good way to get all the pigs together. Not a good idea. He described trying to hide from 30 hungry pigs as they turned on him. As he explained his ordeal, he described how they were biting and trying to tear off his clothes. He said he then slid and fell and, “I had to throw out everything I was wearing.” Do you not love it when city slickers come to the farm? … just sayin’.
Your Leader in Forage Protection Are you ready for the Haying Season?
WE ARE! TWINE & ACID NET WRAP
Net Wrap 48” x 9840’ 48” x 13200’ 51” x 9840’ 51” x 12100’ 64” x 7000’ 64” x 9000’ 64” x 9700’ 67” x 9000’
BALE FILM 3X Super Wrap (1 mil) 3X Super Wrap (1.2 mil) 3X Super Wrap (1.5 mil) 3X Super Wrap (20”) SunÄlm Gold Heritage 5
Poly Twine
Sisal Twine
20000/110 SB 20000/110 Solar 20000/130 DB 7200/170 SB 9000/130 SB 9600/170 DB 6500/210 SB 4000/350 SB 4000/440 SB 4000/550 SB 3800/600HD SB 2850/800 SB
9000 7200 16000 20,000 Binder 26,000 Binder
SILAGE SHEETING
30” x 5000’ 1 mil
Silage Sheeting/6 mil THE ORIGINAL
COVER
ALL PRODUCT IN STOCK!
24 x 100 24 x 150 24 x 200 24 x 1200 32 x 100 32 x 150 32 x 200 32 x 1200 40 x 100 40 x 150 40 x 200 40 x 1200
66 x 150 50 x 100 66 x 200 50 x 150 66 x 1200 50 x 200 50 x 1200 80 x 100 80 x 150 60 x 100 80 x 200 60 x 150 80 x 250 60 x 200 80 x 300 60 x 250 80 x 1000 60 x 300 60 x 505 100 x 100 60 x 1200 100 x 150
100 x 200 100 x 250 100 x 300 100 x 1000 120 x 200 120 x 250 120 x 300 120 x 500 120 x 800 132 x 250 132 x 500
www.bluelakeplastics.com
320-333-9255 Sauk Centre, MN We accept Visa & MasterCard
DEALERS WELCOME!
BA20-tfnB-JW
TIRES Gilman Co-op Creamery
Skid loader & Implement (Mounting Available)
320-387-2770
FEED & FARM SUPPLY STORE Open M-F 7:30-7, Sat. 7:30-5
BENTON AG Plus
Jeff Weyer jeff.w@dairystar.com 320-260-8505
BA42-1B-KB
To advertise in Benton Ag Plus contact your marketing specialist below
Tim Vos tim@saukherald.com 320-492-6987
KATHY BREAULT kathy.b@star-pub.com 320-527-3484
Warren Stone warren@star-pub.com 320-249-9182
BA42-1B-JO
Page 8B | SATURDAY, OCT. 19, 2019 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD