Benton Ag Plus - February 1, 2020

Serving rural Benton, Morrison, Mille Lacs and Kanabec counties

BENTON AG Plus

Sauk Rapids Herald | Saturday, February 1, 2020

Four-legged

family Simons rescue horses, donkeys, giving them a home

BY KATELYN ASFELD STAFF WRITER

PHOTO BY KATELYN ASFELD

Scott and Holly Simon with their son, Sutton, 2, spend time with one of their donkeys, Hector, Dec. 19 at their home near Holdingford. The Simon family enjoys caring for their 21 horses and donkeys, all of which were rescued.

you do with all of these animals,” (of excess animals). The cycle she said. “I understand that, needs to stop and people need to however, if we focused more on be more responsible.” ending unnecessary breeding, Simon page 3B we wouldn’t have this problem

HAY TEDDERS

TEDDERS FROM 8’6” TO 56’6” WORKING WIDTH Smaller sizes on hand

BBA5-1B-BL BA A A5-1B-BLL

Rubes Sponsored by Fluegge’s Ag

HOLDINGFORD – Trudging through snow in a pasture, Holly Simon carries a bucket of feed for five of the eight donkeys she and her husband Scott care for at their home near Holdingford. As the sun sinks below the horizon, the winter wind gets colder, but the donkeys’ shaggy coats keep them warm.

“You can tell they don’t like the winter all that much,” Holly said as she points to a single, well-worn trail through the pasture toward the barn.

The donkeys may not like trudging through snow, but they do love people.

“They’re like large dogs,” Holly said. “They’re so gentle and sweet.”

A gray-dun color and short body are characteristics most people associate with donkeys.

However, the animals come in a variety of colors, including cream, shades of browns and

grays, spotted, black, and lightfaced roan – both red and gray.

They also come in different sizes.

“There’s miniature, standard and mammoth,” Holly said.

“The mammoth breed is about 56 inches from hoof to shoulder and weighs about 950 pounds.”

Each of the Simons’ donkeys has a name – Amigo, Letta, Luna, Tango, Ray, Esme, Rita and Hector – and their own personality to boot.

Along with the eight donkeys, the Simons also care for 13 horses. All 21 animals have been rescued. Most were purchased from buyers who purchase horses, donkeys and mules to be shipped to Canada or Mexico for slaughter.

Mexico, Switzerland, China and Japan are among the few nations where many people eat horse meat.

“You can definitely get horses, donkeys and mules before they get to the kill buyer at an auction and buy them,” Holly said. “But not a

lot of people have time to go to auctions.”

Under the 2016 Consolidated Appropriations Act, the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service is barred from spending funds to conduct inspections of U.S. facilities that process horse, donkey or mule meat for human consumption. FSIS is also not permitted to operate a free inspection program for these establishments.

Only federally inspected establishments can produce products destined to enter interstate commerce or for export to foreign countries, according to FSIS. Without the required FSIS inspection needed to conduct legal business, facilities processing equine for human consumption in the United States closed.

Still, processing equine in Canada and Mexico is legal and viable. Horses purchased at auctions for this intent are sent to pens until enough animals are collected to be shipped across the border, Holly said.

“Some people say there needs to be a slaughterhouse back in the U.S. because what do

Larger sizes available by order

SHORTEN UP YOUR BALING TIME!!

LARGEST TEDDER DEALER IN MINNESOTA! OTA!

FLUEGGE’S AG

ROD FLUEGGE “the boss” 2040 Mahogany St., Mora, MN 320-679-2981

1960-2020 Celebrating 60 years!

Farm Material Handling Specialist WWW.FLUEGGESAG.COM

Page 2B | SATURDAY, FEB. 1, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

BENTON AG

High stock density grazing boosts soil, plant health Adapt techniques to benefit pastures all season

BY JENNIFER COYNE STAFF WRITER

BA5-2eow-DP

ST. CLOUD – Grazing is an important component of organic dairy farming, but its purpose goes beyond animal health.

When pastures are strategically managed, the soil, plants and animals all benefit.

“Some would ask isn’t it enough to rotate the animals,” Kent Solberg said. “Animals should be on pasture at the right time, in the right paddock and for the right reason.”

Solberg is a livestock and grazing specialist for the Sustainable Farming Association. He spoke of the opportunities to maximize pastures in his presentation, “Adaptive High Stock Density Grazing,” at the Minnesota Organic Conference Jan. 9 in St. Cloud.

When pastures are grazed, the ground is disturbed in a way that rejuvenates the soil by reintroducing nutrients and microbes.

An important component of grazing is the rest period that follows which allows

Spring Is Coming!

Seed Corn GT Soybeans

from $

9990bag

from $

95

30

Alfalfa, Hay & Grass Seed, Seed Oats

HUBBARD, HEIMS & PURINA FEEDS

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Kent Solberg, of the Sustainable Farming Association, presents “Adaptive High Stock Density Grazing,” at the Minnesota Organic Conference Jan. 9 in St. Cloud.

Grazing is an important component to organic dairy farming.

on about 4 acres if continuously grazed; this stocking density is about 500 pounds per acre.

“Grazing is controlled by timing, frequency, duration and intensity (stocking density),” Solberg said.

Check out our Winter Promo Discount on

&

Oak Park

Co-op Creamery

320.968.7864

the plants’ root systems to replenish with nutrients.

“Rest is the key to forage production and farm resilience,” Solberg said. “It helps create plant diversity, and soil, forage, animal and even financial health.”

Oftentimes, pastures are overgrazed because there has not been enough rest time for the forages and soil to recover. Yet, the practice of high stock density grazing allows animals to maximize forage intake, while not inhibiting the pasture’s longevity.

Determining how long of a rest period is needed with this practice is dependent on weather, initial health of the stand and animal units, among other factors.

“We want to avoid rotating simply based on the calendar,” Solberg said. “It’s human nature; it’s how we operate.

But, nature is not on the same calendar.”

To manage high stock density grazing well, dairy farmers need to figure out the stocking density capacity of the pasture.

This is determined by pounds of animals per a specific time unit. For a benchmark, one cowcalf pair can be sustained

Offer ends April 30, 2020

16623 Ironwood RD NE, Oak Park, MN Store hours: M-F 8 to 5 & Sat 8 to 12 BA5-2eowB-DP

PEOPLE...PRODUCTS...KNOWLEDGE...

A diagram depicts possible high stock density grazing options as cattle are moved throughout a pasture.

Increasing the stock density and changing grazing patterns improves soil and plant health, and provides animals with forages they may not typically choose in traditional grazing setups.

WE HAVE 4 CERTIFIED CROP ADVISORS

(320) 584-5520

BA14-1B-BP

Stop in or give us a call for more information!

Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC 16250 HWY 10 NW Royalton, MN

BA5-1B-DP

To help serve your seed, application, fertilizer, precision and AgChem needs.

This diagram shows ways fenceline can be setup within a pasture. Changing the grazing pattern exposes animals to a variety of forages and also improves the overall health of the pasture.

To see substantial impacts in soil health and fertility, farmers need to provide at least 40-50,000 pounds per acre. This is enough to feed soil microbes and still leave about half the plant for the resting period. Positive impacts continue as stocking density rises which allows for more manure distribution, plant diversity, water holding capacity and soil quality.

“If done well, we’re really creating an opportunity to grow more feed,” Solberg said.

After determining the stocking density that will improve forage production and soil health, farmers need to establish portable fences.

“It’s more management, but this allows you to plan for those recovery times,” Solberg said.

In the springtime, forage production is rapid and the recovery period may be faster than if the same pasture was managed with the same intensity in the summer months.

As a rule of thumb, Solberg suggested plants are recovered once they are about 16 inches high or the height of a chore boot. “ Tr a d i t i o n a l l y, there’s a lot of growth in the spring, a slump in the summer and then a bump in the fall,” Solberg said.

“To check your pasture’s progress, you have to have boots on the ground and eyes looking down.”

Proper pasture recovery should allow for more plant diversity.

Cues the pasture is resting well would be signs of spider webs, frogs, birds and even dung beetles in the manure.

Another indicator of a well managed pasture would be an increase in milk production.

The fences should be easy to move. Farmers should also invest in mobile waterers so as not to limit the possibility of how paddocks may be set up.

Then, establish a plan for grazing.

“Don’t be afraid to change up the grazing pattern,” Solberg said.

“One time have the fences running parallel, then the next time horizontal, diagonal one way, diagonal the other way.”

By changing the direction of the paddocks, cattle are exposed to different plant communities.

“If you need to set out a portable mineral feeder or hay, something to attract the cows to the less desirable paddock areas, then do that,” Solberg said.

While it takes more management, Solberg suggested grazing at the highest stocking density possible, if only for a short time.

“The higher the stocking density, the more trample and the more pasture you’ll have going forward,” he said. “You have to be efficient with your use of time, but it can have a huge impact.”

To achieve this, farmers should spend time with their animals.

“We make time to make hay, put in ear tags, plant corn,” Solberg said.

“Set aside one or two days to hang out with the animals and do a high stock density grazing rotation.

After all, we’re livestock people.”

Farmers may also consider non-traditional areas to graze, such as south facing slopes, light soils and weak swards. Then, give those areas a rest period of more than 60 days.

“The most important thing to do is keep a record and have a plan,” Solberg said.

Adaptive high stock density grazing is not for all dairy farmers, but it is another way to improve biological systems and make pastures more resilient.

BENTON AG

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEB. 1, 2020 | Page 3B

PHOTOS BY KATELYN ASFELD

Holly Simon gives a bit of feed to the donkeys she and her husband, Scott, own and care for at their home outside of Holdingford.

Simon from pg. 1B Originally, Holly wanted to buy a horse that needed a caring home to live out the rest of its life and could join her other horses in the pasture. What she soon learned would change her focus.

“The first place I found (horses) was on Craigslist,” Holly said.

“I initially just wanted a couple, but I found them being sold from kill pens.

I knew there was such a thing, but I didn’t know they were so close to home. They’re all over the country.”

Wanting to make a difference, Holly began looking for animals the family could rescue from what she considers an unacceptable fate.

Gradually, the Simons added more horses and donkeys to their family.

Holly, who grew up with horses, and Scott, who grew up on a beef farm, know the responsibilities that come with animals.

When the donkeys and horses arrive to their home, they may be older or have special needs that require medications, special feed and extra attention. But this does not faze the couple. They are dedicated to their animals and give each one the care they need to live a happy life. The Simons’ son, Sutton, loves to be around the animals, too.

“A lot of these horses, they had families,” Holly said. “They had little kids that tottered around them.

They were 4-H horses that had families that adored them. And the families fell on bad times or the kids outgrew them. They bring

them to an auction hoping a man sitting up in the a nice family is going to corner bidding on their buy them, when in reality horse could be a kill buyer

and that horse is getting in a trailer with 50 other horses and will be shipped to Mexico.”

Caring for their animals is a team effort.

Scott does the feeding and administers medication in the morning. At night, Holly and Scott do the feeding together, and Holly prepares medications and feed for the next morning.

Everything is scheduled in clusters. All of the horses get their hoof trimmings, vaccinations and worming medication at the same time.

“We don’t get physical or financial help from anybody,” Holly said. “We do everything here.”

With 21 equines to take care of, the Simons said they are at their max.

“You need to know your limit,” Holly said.

“You really do.”

Euthanizing the animals when it is their

time to go is difficult for the couple. This summer, they had to say goodbye to their donkey Frosty, who they had for over 27 years, and their first rescued horse Dolly, a draft horse who was in her 30s when she passed.

“They’re like a family member,” Holly said. “It was really difficult to lose them. When you take in seniors, you know that’s going to happen sooner, rather than later. But, you’re doing something good and giving them a place to retire, rather than letting them go to slaughter or live a horrible, neglected life in somebody’s pasture.”

The Simons know they cannot save every animal destined for slaughter, however, the ones they do rescue, they hope to give a comfortable home where they can live out the rest of their lives.

Amigo is one donkey owned and cared for by Holly and Stetson, a 20-year-old horse with special needs, was Scott Simon in Holdingford. Holly has owned Amigo for rescued from a kill pen by Holly and Scott Simon and has 25 years. been with them ever since.

404 County Road 50 • Avon, Minnesota 56310 South Side of I-94

320-356-2412 • www.midsotatrailersales.com Roto Tillers

Enclosed Trailers

Rock Wagons Augers

Aluma Utility Trailers

Grapples

BA31-tfn-TV

Varieties of Trailers Serving Central MN since established in 1971 (48 years in business) TEAM “A QUALITy ITy L A U SELLING Q ” T N E EQUIPM

Get the job done right this SPRING!! Stop at Midsota Trailer Sales!

“Remember, if you’re going to be HAULIN you need to be CALLIN, Midsota Trailer Sales in Avon!”

Page 4B | SATURDAY, FEB. 1, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

BENTON AG

Planting for production Growers project provides information about asparagus farming ST. CLOUD – The Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota seeks ways to get farmers to grow crops, whether conventional agricultural production or specialty crops like fruits and vegetables.

So, in November 2018, tasked with finding a crop suitable for incoming farmers, the organization chose asparagus as the vegetable plant of choice. The decision was the start of a conjoined effort with the University of Minnesota Extension’s Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships and the Minnesota Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association. Known as the Minnesota Asparagus Project and funded by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Block Grant, the endeavor is a pathway for asparagus farming in a state not known for a large amount of asparagus production.

“We wanted to reach farmers to grow crops,” said Theresa Keaveny, SFA’s executive director.

“We’ve been working on farming that would earn good income on a small number of acres that would be complementary with soil health practices.

Asparagus fits that to a T.” The project’s goal was to increase asparagus production while also improving the plant’s marketing capabilities.

Another portion of this two-pronged plan is workshops, which take aspiring asparagus growers through informative presentations

about the plant. An hour-long session titled “Growing Premium Asparagus” took place Jan. 17 at the Northern Growers & Marketers Conference at the River’s Edge Convention Center in St. Cloud.

Terry Nennich, owner of Ter-Lee Farms and former University of Minnesota Extension professor, took attendees through planting, pests and everything alike when it came to asparagus farming.

A native of southern Michigan where he was raised growing smallacre crops like asparagus, Nennich cites the plant’s longevity as a major advantage for springtime farmers.

“I’ve been in this business my entire life, and the thing I like about it is once it’s established, it’s there,” Nennich said. “It’s like an apple orchard but it doesn’t take much work. There aren’t many people who like to establish it, so there’s an open market for the ones who do.”

Asparagus is also recognized as one of the earliest spring crops to provide profitable cashflow.

Nennich recommends starting asparagus fields with the crown system, a process a majority of asparagus farmers use to grow their crops. Crowns, a 1-yearold root from plant seeds, are generally ordered toward the end of winter in time for the early signs of spring.

“Once you buy a crown, you have a root.

It’s ready to go and put in right away,” Nennich said. “You buy it, it’s

PHOTO SUBMITTED

An asparagus field is planted at the Hmong American Farmers Association farm in Coates. Asparagus is the focus of an awareness project by the Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota with help from the University of Minnesota Extension’s Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships and Minnesota Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association.

shipped to you, and they’re easy to use.”

N e n n i c h ’ s presentation included measurements to assist planting crowns. The distance between the top of the planted crown and soil level should be roughly 6 inches to 8 inches, while rows of future asparagus plants should lie close to 4 feet to 5 feet apart.

However, unlike typical seeds, crowns are rarely found in Minnesota, having been popularly plucked from distributors like Daisy Farms and Krohne Farms in Michigan and Norris Farms in Massachusetts.

That is one major reason why the Minnesota Asparagus Project exists – the need for growth in local asparagus farming.

“The demand for Minnesota-grown asparagus has grown, because right now, most of what we get is imported,” Keaveny

said.

“People want locally-grown fruits and vegetables.”

But to establish a local connection, information is vital. Soil strength reigns superior as the biggest difference between a successful harvest season and a step back to square one. Taking a soil test, checking pH levels and balancing soil texture and weight are steps every farmer should take before planting asparagus.

“That’s really the key, building up the soil fertility, whether organically or inorganically,” Nennich said. “One of the biggest problems I see is that people get excited about it and put it in a field that

isn’t ready. Asparagus is not a good competitor for weeds, especially during the harvest season.”

Weeds are not the only potential detractor for asparagus plants; like most crops, they have their fair share of pests, the most common being the crioceris also known as the asparagus beetle.

However, compared to other spring crops, the pest potential is relatively low.

“That is one good thing about asparaguses: There isn’t a lot of pests, especially in Minnesota,” Nennich said. “As far as insects, we have the asparagus beetle, but I only see it rear its ugly head once every 10 years.”

Asparagus is a perennial plant, meaning its lifespan extends past the two-year mark. In fact, the highest yield retrieved from asparagus farming usually does not occur until year three when many other plants would be dead or dying.

Many stands can last up to 15 years.

According to Nennich, having reliable water drainage and keeping on top of sprouting plants are essential to stimulated success as an asparagus farmer. However, given the unique nature of the plant and its intricacies in every stage of the process, he believes mistakes are a natural part of the design.

“When it comes to harvesting, they’ll learn,” Nennich said. “They’ll make mistakes, but they’ll grow out of it. It’s a challenge, but I think it’s a fun challenge.”

With a recent workshop at the Emerging Farmers Conference this past week, Keaveny believes the interest is there.

However, more sessions and outreach is to come.

Another workshop will take place at the SFA’s Annual Conference Feb. 8 at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph.

“There’s a high demand to learn about asparagus,” Keaveny said. “We invite anybody who wants to begin raising asparagus or who is currently raising it and wants to increase production.”

32ND ANNUAL

FARM TOY SHOW

February 25-26, 2020 River’s Edge Convention Center, St. Cloud Tuesday, Feb. 25 - 9 am to 4 pm Wednesday, Feb. 26 - 8 am to 3 pm

SPONSORED BY: Sauk Centre Area Chamber of Commerce

Sat., February 8, 2020 5 Star Event Center (Formerly Elmerz)

1225 Timberline Drive Sauk Centre, MN 56378

Special Guest: Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture, Thom Petersen, will be speaking on Tuesday

Music & Food Concessions!

Admission: $4 • Children 5 & under are FREE (Proceeds go to Dollars for Scholars Arnie Wiener Memorial College Scholarships)

TO BE A VENDOR OR FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Free admission • Over 200 exhibitors in over 370 booths Free daily seminars • Topics on the Hour speakers

SPONSORSHIPS PROVIDED BY:

BA5-1-B-MT

Sauk Centre Area Chamber of Commerce • Phone: 320.352.5201 Email: saukcentrechamber@gmail.com

centralmnfarmshow.com

BA5-1B-MT

Doors Open: 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEB. 1, 2020 | Page 5B

Small grain workshops scheduled ST. PAUL – University of Minnesota Extension is offering seven small grain workshops across southern Minnesota to address successful small grain management.

The workshops take place from Feb. 17-21.

“Whether you are a farmer or crop consultant already producing small grains, or a farmer looking for another crop to add to the rotation, these workshops are for you,” said Jared Goplen, extension educator.

“Workshops will focus on production a g r o n o m i c s , variety selection and economics and

Feb. 17, 12:30-4 p.m. – RCTC Heintz Center, 1926 Collegeview Road E., Rochester.

Contact Ryan Miller at 507-529-2759.

Feb. 18, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Le Sueur County Fairgrounds 4-H Building, 320 S. Plut Ave., Le Center.

Contact Shane Bugeja at 515-708-3486.

Feb. 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Great Blue Heron, 305 Fifth Ave. S., Cold Spring.

Contact Joe Krippner at 320-980-2915.

Feb. 19, 1-4 p.m. – Kanabec County Courthouse, 18 South Vine St., Mora. No lunch served.

Contact Jared Goplen at 320-587-1711, Ext. 2128.

Feb. 20, 8:30-11:30 a.m. – Rock Dining and Events, 1940 11th Ave., Granite Falls.

Contact Dorian Gatchell at 320-321-3615.

Feb. 20, 1-4 p.m. – Murray County 4-H Building Event Hall. 3048 Broadway Ave., Slayton.

Contact Melissa Runck at 507-836-6927.

Feb. 21, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Hanny’s Bar and Grill, 1135 Pacific Ave., Benson.

Contact Scott Lee at 320-760-6129.

include an open-forum discussion for related topics and on-farm experiences.”

Presenters may vary by location but include Jochum Wiersma, University of Minnesota Extension small grain specialist and Jared

Goplen, University of Minnesota Extension crops educator.

Workshops are sponsored by the Minnesota Wheat Research and Promotion Council.

Lunch is included at all sites except Mora.

Registration is free.

Register by visiting https://z.umn.edu/ southern-small-grain.

For more information, contact Jared Goplen at 320-589-1711, Ext. 2128 or at gople007@ umn.edu.

Seed trial winners announced Eight varietals selected from 2019 growing season

2019 seed trial winners - Aromas Fresh Lemon snap dragon - Indian Chief nasturtium - Licorice Mint mint - Fourth of July early tomato - Sugar Ann snap peas - Ruby Perfection red cabbage - Three-root Grex golden beets - Surrey arugula

ST. CLOUD – The University of Minnesota and the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardeners have been running a flower and vegetable varietal trial since Gardeners around the their garden space to 1962. Extension Master state devote some of selected varietals and

Sesquicentennial farm applications due March 2 ST. PAUL – Minnesota Farm Bureau’s Sesquicentennial Farm program will honor Minnesota families who have owned their farms for at least 150 years. Since the Sesquicentennial Farm program began in 2008, over 371 farms have been recognized.

The Sesquicentennial Farm program recognizes family farms according to the following qualifications: - The farm must be at least 150 years old this year according to the abstract of title, land patent, original deed, county land records, court file in registration proceedings or other authentic land records. Do not send original or copies of records.

- Your family must have owned the farm for 150 years or more. Family is defined as parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, first cousins and direct inlaws (father, mother, brother, sister, daughter, son).

- Continuous residence on farm is not required, but ownership must be continuous.

- The farm should consist of 50 or more acres and currently be involved in agricultural production.

A commemorative certificate

signed by Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation President Kevin Paap, Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will be awarded to qualifying families along with an outdoor sign signifying Sesquicentennial Farm recognition.

Applications are available by writing Sesquicentennial Farms, Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation, P.O. Box 64370, St. Paul, MN 55164; emailing info@fbmn.org; or calling 651-768-2100. Applications are also available at http://www.fbmn.org.

Deadline for application is March 2.

Previously recognized families should not reapply.

Century farms are not automatically recognized. Families must apply to receive Sesquicentennial Farm recognition. County Farm Bureaus are encouraged to work with county agriculture societies and county fair boards on local recognition of recipients.

Recipients will be announced at the beginning of April.

To see a list of previously recognized sesquicentennial farms in Minnesota, visit https://fbmn.org/ pages/farm-recognition.

keep records throughout the growing season.

The results are then collected, analyzed and shared with the public.

Seeds that have previously been tested include heirlooms, generationally saved seeds, promised high yielding seeds, easy growing, space saving and beautiful.

The University selects six vegetables varietals and two flower varietals each year.

Winners and recommendations are based on flavor, disease and insect tolerance, productivity and germination rate.

To learn more about this seed trial and see the varietals in the trial, visit https://www. extension.umn.edu and search for seed trials.

Farm dog At this year’s American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting, they continued the tradition of selecting the Farm Dog of the Year. The award winner was an Australian shepherd named Flint who is owned by Utah Farm Bureau members.

This event has BY ROGER STROM become a big deal with The Business of Farming more than 100,000 social media followers who voted, commented, shared or liked their favorite dog. Plus, the winner gets $5,000 monetary prize, a trophy plate, a year’s worth of Purina dog food and other products.

Hearing about the award triggered memories of our farm dog Kristy. She was not a purebred with papers and all that goes along with being an award winner. Like most farm dogs, she was more of a Heinz 57 variety – a little bit of everything.

But, she was smart, real smart and a great cow dog.

Between milkings the cows roamed the fields and woods around the farm, often wandering away from the herd.

When it was milking time, Kristy rounded up the main herd and then headed into the woods looking for stragglers. I know dogs cannot count, but she seemed to know when a cow was missing and kept working until she had them all headed for the barn.

There were a couple of rules about rounding up cows. She was not supposed to create a stampede, and she was not allowed to grab a cow’s tail to go for a ride. More than once she either forgot or ignored those directions, and cows came into the barn breathing pretty hard.

There was also an issue with chasing the chickens. After a couple of run-ins with the rooster, she decided it was not much fun. She also learned to leave the geese and the cats alone. Our cats were not the kind you want for a pet. They were more like a wild animal, living in the hay barn and chasing mice for food.

Even though the farm was in Canada with long, cold winters, Kristy was not allowed in the house. She slept in the porch on a bed of burlap sacks in a makeshift dog house.

“Dogs don’t belong in the house,” was my grandfather’s rule. That is unless the temperature dropped into the 20 or 30 below zero range. Then, he would let her into the kitchen.

Despite the cold, it took a lot of coaxing to get her into the house. It was a scary experience for a dog that spent her life outside. When she tried to walk on the smooth linoleum floor, it was like a dog on ice. Her legs would go in all directions and eventually she resorted to crawling across the floor. She would eventually make it to the wood cook stove where she would lay until morning.

I would like to say Kristy died quietly in her sleep but that was not the case. After many years of working the farm, she wore herself out. One morning she walked into the woods and never came back.

Let us help you customize your farm

BA24-tfnB-TV

BENTON AG

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

Page 6B | SATURDAY, FEB. 1, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

PUBLIC NOTICES

Streaming water in ditches Deter talks of drainage law in Minnesota

BY ANNA HINKEMEYER STAFF WRITER

FOLEY – Imagine a summer day following a rainstorm where you are driving roads in rural Benton County. You notice water flowing alongside the road.

Many would not think much of it. However, what is underneath the water could be more complex.

Many ditches in Minnesota have tile to aid drainage from fields.

Kurt Deter is an

attorney with Rinke Noonan in St. Cloud who has spent his 40-year career focused on ditch systems and drainage law in Minnesota.

Deter’s career started with files on two Stearns County ditches and he now represents as many as 50 counties and many watershed districts in the state.

Deter spoke about drainage law and offered tips at the Benton-Sherburne Corn Grower’s Association meeting Jan. 9 at Jack

MIDWEST CLASSIFIED NETWORK To reach 9 states with your classified call 320-251-1971

ADOPTION. Southern California sunlit nursery awaits newborn. Loving home, secure future, devoted grandparents educational opportunity. Living expenses paid.

Call Melissa 1(805) 253-3623 or attorney 1(310) 6633467. (MCN)S-5 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-5 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 1-855977-7030 (MCN)S-5 DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. 1-844-3168876. (MCN)S-5 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-5 Get NFL Sunday Ticket FREE w/ DIRECTV Choice AllIncluded Package. $59.99/month for 12 months. 185 Channels PLUS Thousands of Shows/Movies On Demand. FREE Genie HD DVR Upgrade. Call 1-844-2452232 or satellitedealnow.com/MFCP. (MCN)S-5 Earthlink High Speed Internet. As Low As $14.95/ month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed. Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More!

Call Earthlink Today 1-855-679-7096 (MCN)S-5

Kurt Deter

and Jim’s in Foley.

With precipitation trends increasing each year, Deter said proper drainage is more important than

ever. Many of the ditch systems across the state were constructed over 100 years ago when a future in agriculture or timber was not viable without a way to drain water.

“All of our major systems today are that vintage and still working to some extent,” Deter said. “A lot of the clay tiles were put in at the right grade or reasonably close, and it is unbelievable they are still working.”

Since the installation of these systems, environmental issues and regulations have come into play. Property owners need to ensure

they are compliant with regulations set forth by agencies such as the United States Army Corps of Engineers regarding construction and repair, the Department of Natural Resources if dealing with public waters, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service regarding Wetland Conservation provisions.

Deter said many private ditch systems are spread across multiple properties with several landowners. He strongly recommends creating a drainage and maintenance agreement to ensure the upkeep

of the system. Deter said while all of the landowners may get along now those in the future may not, and without the agreement in place, maintaining the system could be a challenge.

Landowners are subject to environmental regulations when a system needs to be repaired or improved.

However, a drainage code was passed that allows landowners to petition the drainage authority, often a county board, to establish a county ditch. Deter said a lot of established Drainage page 8B

Over $10K in Debt? Be debt free in 24 to 48 months. No NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help upfront fees to enroll. A+ BBB rated. Call National Debt you self-publish your own book. FREE author submission kit! Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 855-623Relief 855-995-1557. (MCN)S-5 8796 (MCN)S-5 ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax re- Become a published author! Publications sold at all turns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 855- major secular & specialty Christian bookstores. CALL Christian Faith Publishing for your FREE author submis211-8684 (MCN)S-5 sion kit. 1-888-981-5761. (MCN)S-5 Struggling With Your Private Student Loan Payment?

New relief programs can reduce your payments. Learn DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. Receive maximum your options. Good credit not necessary. Call the Helpline value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details. 855855-238-4594 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Eastern) (MCN)S-5 752-6680 (MCN)S-5 FOR SALE: 2016 John Deere Combine- Model S670, excellent condition, 600 separator hours, well equipped. FREE AUTO INSURANCE QUOTES for uninsured and Located in Southern Minnesota. 507-236-6538 (MCN)S-5 insured drivers. Let us show you how much you can save! Call 855-648-7642. (MCN)S-5 Trailer Sale! Spare tire just $20.00 with purchase of Any single axle Trailer. 6’X12’ V-nose Ramp door cargo A PLACE FOR MOM has helped over a million families $3,299.00; 7’X16’ V-nose ramp door $5,199.00; CM 3 find senior living. Our trusted, local advisors help find Horse Aluminum SlantClose-Out $12,399.00; Tow Dollies: solutions to your unique needs at no cost to you. Call TriState Carports, Barns & Garages Now Availble! 140 1-888-894-7038 (MCN)S-5 trailers In-Stock for prices & information goto: www.FortUnable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! Strong DodgeTrailerWorld.com or 515-972-4554. (MCN)S-5 recent work history needed. Call to start your applicaStay in your home longer with an American Standard tion or appeal today! 1-866-276-3845 –Steppacher Law Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free Offices LLC Principal Office: 224 Adams Ave Scranton PA toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! 18503. (MCN)S-5 Call us at 1-855-372-3080 or visit www.walkintubquote.

SAVE BIG on HOME INSURANCE! Compare 20 A-rated com/midwest (MCN)S-5 insurances companies. Let us do the shopping & save VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills for $99. 100 pills for $150. FREE you time & money. Get a quote within minutes. Avershipping. Money back guaranteed! 1-866-306-9928 age savings of $444/year! Call 855-697-1892. (M-F 8am-8pm Central). (MCN)S-5 (MCN)S-5 Are you or a loved one suffering from Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Addictions or other mental or behavioral disorders? Our inpatient treatment services can help you reclaim your life and get back on track. We work with most PPO insurances. Please call 319-900-6879 (MCN)S-5

COMPUTER ISSUES? FREE DIAGNOSIS by GEEKS ON SITE! Virus Removal, Data Recovery! 24/7 EMERGENCY Full Spectrum, CBD Rich Hemp Oil. Known to help re$20 OFF ANY SERVICE with coupon 42522! Restrictions duce stress & anxiety, improve sleep, manage chronic apply. 1-844-938-0797. (MCN)S-5 pain. Lab Tested. USA Grown not Overseas. 100% Money Back Guarantee. Save Over 33% CALL NOW: 1-877-233REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER – Great opportunity to 4232 (MCN)S-5 write for an award-winning tri-weekly newspaper in a vibrant, diverse community. We have an immediate **STOP STRUGGLING ON THE STAIRS** Give your life a opening for a full-time creative, accurate, driven story- lift with an ACORN STAIRLIFT! Call now for $250 OFF your teller. Storm Lake offers natural resources, a four-year stairlift purchase and FREE DVD & brochure! 1-877-358university, lots of celebrations and cultural events, and 0034 (MCN)S-5 a very involved population that helps us to dive deep into the big social issues of our day. We strive to be DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance unique! Our newspaper is a consistent award winner, Company. NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for including many INA General Excellence awards as one 350 procedures. Call 1-855-973-9175 for details. www. of the top publications in our state. Come join us. Send dental50plus.com/midwest 6118-0219. (MCN)S-5 a resume, work samples and references to Storm Lake Pilot-Tribune, P.O. Box 1187, Storm Lake, IA, 50588, or Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by email to kvanderwoude@stormlakepilottribune.com. Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the (MCN)S-5 compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 844-716-2411. (MCN)S-5

PROTECT YOUR HOME AND FAMILY with Vivint Smart Home. Call 844-500-8711 today to receive a FREE $50 GIFTCARD with your purchase. Use promo code: FREE50. (MCN)S-5 Meet singles right now! No paid operators, just real people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages and connect live. Try it free. Call now: 855-651-0114.

(MCN) S-5 Wanna flirt and have some fun? Livelinks is the best chatline for meeting real singles who know how to have a good time! Call Livelinks and make a real connection.

866-910-1044 (MCN)S-5 SPRING TRAVEL SPECIAL! 7 Day / 6 Night Orlando + Daytona Beach Vacation with Hertz Rental Car Included. Only $398.00. Call 844-277-5137 to Reserve. 12 Months to use. (MCN)S-5 Buying and selling any gold and silver items, collector coins, diamonds, gold jewelry, silver dollars, rare currency. No collection too big. Kuehl’s Coins, Fairmont, Minnesota, 507-235-3886, 507-399-9982, open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (MCN)S-5

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, FEB. 1, 2020 | Page 7B

PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE OF VOLUNTARY MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that default has occurred in conditions of the following described mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE: September 6, 2011 MORTGAGOR: Christopher J Schaefer, a married man; also executed

by Stephanie M. Schaefer, a married woman MORTGAGEE: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for U.S. Bank N.A. its successors and assigns.

DATE AND PLACE OF RECORDING: Recorded September 22, 2011 Benton County Recorder, Document No. 383901.

ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: Assigned to: U.S. Bank National Association. Dated August 14, 2019 Recorded August 19, 2019, as Document No. 437649. And thereafter assigned to Bayview Loan Servicing, LLC Dated October 1, 2019 Recorded October 1, 2019 as Document No. 438493.

TRANSACTION AGENT: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. TRANSACTION AGENT’S MORTGAGE

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N NUMBER ON M O R T G A G E : 100021200004357553 LENDER OR BROKER AND MORTGAGE ORIGINATOR STATED ON MORTGAGE: U.S. Bank N.A. RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE SERVICER: Bayview Loan Servicing, LLC M O RT G A G E D PROPERTY ADDRESS: 611 8th Avenue North, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 TAX PARCEL I.D. #: 19.02342.00 L E G A L DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: A parcel of land situated in the State of Minnesota, County of Benton, described as Sect-23 Twp-036 Range-031 Scenic View Plat 2 Lot-018 Block-004.

COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Benton O R I G I N A L PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $180,000.00 AMOUNT DUE AND CLAIMED TO BE DUE AS OF DATE OF NOTICE, INCLUDING TAXES, IF ANY, PAID

BY MORTGAGEE: $164,701.54 That prior to the commencement of this mortgage foreclosure proceeding Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee complied with all notice requirements as required by statute; That no action

or proceeding has been instituted at law or otherwise to recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any part thereof; PURSUANT to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE: March 12, 2020 at 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: Benton County Sheriff’s Office, 581 Highway 23 Northeast Foley, MN to pay the debt then secured by said Mortgage, and taxes, if any, on said premises, and the costs and disbursements, including attorneys’ fees allowed by law subject to redemption within six (6) months from the date of said sale by the mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns unless reduced to Five (5) weeks under MN Stat. §580.07.

TIME AND DATE TO VACATE PROPERTY: If the real estate is an owneroccupied, single-family dwelling, unless otherwise provided by law, the date on or before which the mortgagor(s) must vacate the property if the mortgage is not reinstated under section 580.30 or the property is not redeemed under section 580.23 is 11:59 p.m. on September 14, 2020, unless that date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, in which case it is the next weekday, and unless the redemption period is reduced to 5 weeks

under MN Stat. Secs. 580.07 or 582.032.

M O RT G A G O R ( S ) RELEASED FROM FINANCIAL OBLIGATION ON MORTGAGE:None “THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION

BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S P E R S O N A L R E P R E S E N TAT I V E S OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.” Dated: January 8, 2020 Bayview Loan Servicing, LLC Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee USSET, WEINGARDEN AND LIEBO, P.L.L.P. Attorneys for Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee 4500 Park Glen Road #300 Minneapolis, MN 55416 (952) 925-6888 137 - 19-009777 FC THIS IS A C O M M U N I C AT I O N FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. R-3-6B

NOTICE OF VOLUNTARY MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED

BY THIS ACTION. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that default has occurred in conditions of the following described mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE: July 25, 2017 MORTGAGOR: Mitchell Freeby, single.

MORTGAGEE: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Resolute Bank, its successors and assigns.

DATE AND PLACE OF RECORDING: Recorded August 23, 2017 Benton County Recorder, Document No. 424686.

ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: Assigned to: American Neighborhood Mortgage Acceptance Company, LLC. Dated December 10, 2019 Recorded December 19, 2019, as Document No. 440280.

TRANSACTION AGENT: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. TRANSACTION AGENT’S MORTGAGE I D E N T I F I C AT I O N NUMBER ON M O R T G A G E : 101310921706160197 LENDER OR BROKER AND MORTGAGE

ORIGINATOR STATED ON MORTGAGE: Resolute Bank RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE SERVICER: American Neighborhood Mortgage Acceptance Company, LLC. MORTGAGED PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1710 Summit Place, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 TAX PARCEL I.D. #: 190318300 L E G A L DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: Lot Ten (10), Block Two (2), Summit Oakes, according to the plat and survey thereof on file and of record in the office of the county recorder in and for Benton County, Minnesota.

COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Benton O R I G I N A L PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $178,423.00 AMOUNT DUE AND CLAIMED TO BE DUE AS OF DATE OF NOTICE, INCLUDING TAXES, IF ANY, PAID

BY MORTGAGEE: $180,618.26 That prior to the commencement of this mortgage foreclosure proceeding Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee complied with all notice requirements as required by statute; That no action or proceeding has been instituted at law or otherwise to recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any

part thereof; PURSUANT to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE: February 25, 2020 at 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: Benton County Sheriff’s Office, 581 Highway 23 Northeast Foley, MN to pay the debt then secured by said Mortgage, and taxes, if any, on said premises, and the costs and disbursements, including attorneys’ fees allowed by law subject to redemption within six (6) months from the date of said sale by the mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns unless reduced to Five (5) weeks under MN Stat. §580.07.

TIME AND DATE TO VACATE PROPERTY: If the real estate is an owneroccupied, single-family dwelling, unless otherwise provided by law, the date on or before which the mortgagor(s) must vacate the property if the mortgage is not reinstated under section 580.30 or the property is not redeemed under section 580.23 is 11:59 p.m. on August 25, 2020, unless that date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, in which case it is the next weekday, and unless the redemption period is reduced to 5 weeks under MN Stat. Secs. 580.07 or 582.032.

MORTGAGOR(S)

RELEASED FROM F I N A N C I A L OBLIGATION ON MORTGAGE:None “THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION

BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S P E R S O N A L R E P R E S E N TAT I V E S OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.” Dated: December 20, 2019 American Neighborhood Mortgage Acceptance Company, LLC Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee USSET, WEINGARDEN AND LIEBO, P.L.L.P. Attorneys for Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee 4500 Park Glen Road #300 Minneapolis, MN 55416 (952) 925-6888 9 - 19-008623 FC THIS IS A C O M M U N I C AT I O N FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. R-52-6B

PROBATE NOTICE STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF BENTON SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT DISTRICT COURT PROBATE DIVISION Court File No: 05-PR-2088 NOTICE AND ORDER OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Lorraine A. Moore, Decedent.

It is Ordered and Notice is given that on March 9, 2020 at 8:00 a.m., a hearing will be held in this Court at 615 MN HWY -23, Foley, Minnesota, for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Will of the Decedent dated August 25, 1988, (“Will”), and for the appointment of Gerald Moore, whose address is 300 W. Center St., Lot 7, PO Box 286, Royalton, MN 56373 as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration. Any objections to the petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections

are filed or raised, the Personal Representative will be appointed with full power to administer the Estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate.

Notice is also given that (subject to Minnesota Statutes section 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.

BY THE COURT Dated: 01-21-2020 /s/ Michael S. Jesse Judge of District Court Dated: 01-21-2020 /s/ Jennifer Siemers Court Administrator Deputy Attorney for Petitioner John H. Wenker Quinlivan & Hughes, P.A. 1740 West St. Germain Street Saint Cloud, MN 56301 Attorney License No: 0232385 Telephone: (320) 251-1414 FAX: (320) 251-1415 Email: jwenker@quinlivan. com

R-4-2B

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS *Note time change to 6:00 p.m.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Planning Commission will conduct public hearings on February 13th, 2020 the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, and beginning at *6:00 p.m. The Planning Commission will hear the following: 1. 6:00 p.m. Derrick Nelson requesting to amend conditional use permit #15-421 to expand an existing storage structure in the Agricultural District. Pursuant to Sections 7.1.23 and 11.6. The affected property is described as follows: Lot 1, Block 1, Nelson Addition, Section 10, Watab Township.

2. 6:05 p.m. Public hearing to consider the following amendments to the Benton County Development Code.

Pursuant to Section 11.8. Modify Section 3 Definitions related to Accessory Solar Energy System, Community Solar Farm, Digital Display Sign, Ice Ridge, Outside Storage, Private Solar Garden, Rip-Rap, Shore Impact Zones; Sections 7.1, 7.2, 7.2A, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.6A, 7.7 and 7.8 to address uses, Section 7S5.3 Shoreland Alterations to further define requirements; Section 8.3 Visual Screening Standards; Section 9 Special Provisions relating to Contractor Yards, Section 9.1 Signs to address digital billboards and remove content based provisions; Section 9.20 Solar to revise all requirements, Section 10 Subdivision Regulations to modify administrative subdivisions, add a simple plat process and clarify portions of the full platting process. A printed copy of the proposed amendments is available for review by any person during regular office hours at the office of the Benton County Department of Development. Additional information is available at the Department of Development and at www.co.benton.mn.us.

ANYONE wishing to be heard with reference to the above will be heard at this meeting.

FR-5-1B

. . .

D E v o m e V ’ We 20 0 2 , 1 y r a u r b e F As of s at our new location Look for u s Business Center id p a R k u a S e th in e 135 2 2nd Ave S, Suit 56379 Sauk Rapids, MN

Page 8B | SATURDAY, FEB. 1, 2020 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

BENTON AG

Drainage

and Discover the versatility metal s durability of Metal Sale ls roof and wall pane

from pg. 6B private systems are petitioning to become county systems.

“Establishing a county ditch eases the concerns of who may own land within the system now or into the future,” Deter said in a separate interview.

“There are more and more absentee landowners and many times in private systems other landowners in the systems do not know who to talk to. A county ditch helps with ongoing repairs managed by people outside the system.”

If a new county system is established, 60% of the landowners must agree to the system according to Minnesota state statute 103E. The same statute states that if improvements are

BUILDIN RELATIONSHGIP S WITH HOMETOWN SERVICE

Classic Clas Cl assi as sic Ri 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 Pro-Panel II Panels a durable and economical option for just about any metal roof or wall project.

DIRTWORKS 2000 INC

BUILDING CENTER

240 Main Street, Foley, MN 56329 320-968-6291 • www.foleylumber.com

needed in a multipleproperty private system, 26% of the landowners are needed to petition for improvements, as well as a posted bond of at least $10,000, with no opposition.

“When I first started my career, 27% agreed and no one ever talked to the rest of the landowners,” Deter said.

“Today, informational meetings are always held for all landowners with the goal of explaining and reducing possible opposition.”

Repairs to a drainage system can only be matched to what was initially constructed, while improvements can change and enlarge the system.

Deter said once drainage systems are in place, it is important to maintain them. In the last two years, Deter has seen an increase in the number of

BA5-2eow-DP

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL EXCAVATION • Site grading • Ditch excavating • Road/driveway construction • Clearing/grubbing land • Demolition • Construct building pads LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED

320-259-4900

SAUK RAPIDS, MN Dirtworks2000.com

Dirtworks2000 Inc. BA27-eoBA-TV

landowners taking part of the redetermination process which dictates which landowners are assessed or charged with system maintenance in accordance with the amount of land benefited by the ditch.

Deter often receives calls about drainage outlets and blocked drainage.

However, with Minnesota being a reasonable use state, Deter said these things can occur as long as your neighbor is not unreasonably harming you.

Deter also cautioned on draining into a road ditch and said permission from the road authority is necessary. Typically, the road authority will not turn a person down from the project, but may set restrictions, he said.

One example would be using smaller tiles due to a culvert farther down the grade that may not be able to handle a larger size.

“A lot more pattern tile is being put in and many old systems are being upsized,” Deter said. “Agriculture has changed tremendously since these old systems were put in and now the systems need to accommodate the changes and the weather trends we have seen in the past several years.”

As systems get repaired and upgraded, Deter said he continues to see concerns.

“Every time I think I have seen every drainage issue, something new comes up, especially in the current wet conditions,” Deter said.

“There is more than enough work to do because of all of these scenarios, but I enjoy it.”

BENTON AG

What is more important than fresh water this winter?

• Ritchie & Franklin waterers and parts • Ice-melt heaters and devices

Plus

Come visit our booth #A701 at the

Feb. 25-26, 2020

To advertise in Benton Ag Plus contact your marketing specialist below

Missy Traeger

LITTLE ROCK, MN 320-584-5147

PIERZ, MN 320-468-2168

LASTRUP, MN 320-468-2543

BUCKMAN, MN 320-468-6433

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK!

BA-5-1-B-BL

missy@saukherald.com 320-291-9899