Spring 2020
Special to The Globe
Grant Crawford, Danielle Evers and Krista Kopperud listen to a guide discuss farming in Cambodia.
MARL Class X wraps up two-year experience By Leah Ward lward@dglobe.com REGIONAL — Class X of the Minnesota Agriculture and Rural Leadership (MARL) program has finished its two-year seminar, and four southwest Minnesota participants are ready to bring their new knowledge back to their communities. MARL Class X traveled across the state to learn about agriculture in other areas and network with its 30 class members from varying ag backgrounds. They also took a oneweek trip to Washington, D.C. to learn about how agriculture interacts with public policy, and a two-week trip to Cambodia and Taiwan for
international exposure to the global food supply chain. Local Class X members include Matt Altman, product manager at JBS Worthington and owner of Five Pine Cattle Co.; Danielle Evers, Southwest Minnesota certification specialist with the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program and Pipestone Soil and Water Conservation District; Krista Kopperud, owner of Painted Prairie Vineyard in Currie; and Grant Crawford, bovine nutritionist with Merck Animal Health. The four shared what they learned from their MARL experience and how they will use it in their careers and communities.
Danielle Evers
Evers described her overall MARL experience as “more than I expected it to be.” She named personal growth as a primary benefit of the program. “It changed how I look at myself,” she said. “It opened a lot of doors for personal development.” Evers noted that she learned to be more aware of her individual strengths and how she can use them effectively. In Washington, MARL Class X participants spent 45 minutes with U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson, DFL-Detroit Lakes, whose district includes Pipestone and Murray counties and part of Cottonwood County. Peterson chairs the House Agriculture Committee. Evers was impressed with the time
Peterson took to listen to ag leaders from his state. The group also visited the International Trade Commission and other groups that help write legislation. “It was eye-opening to see the (legislative) process at that level,” shared Evers, who became aware of some of the challenges that arise while legislators try to get bills passed on behalf of their constituents. The international trip was one of the last components of the MARL Class X experience, as the contingent returned to the United States on March 1. “The trip helped push us outside of our comfort zones,” Evers recalled.
MARL: Page 6
2 • The Globe • Wednesday, April 15, 2020
COVID-19 alters beef consumer behavior BETH
DORAN ISU Extension
Special to The Globe
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers are showing greater demand for ground beef and a variety of beef cuts. times and in some areas of the U.S., there is no shortage of beef. Total pounds of beef in cold storage is up 4% from 2019, and beef production is projected to be 1.9% higher in 2020. Staying at home and/or reduced hours of employment impact the cuts of beef consumers are purchasing. Ground beef is most popular because it is economical, versatile and easy to prepare. However, given more time at home, consumers are experimenting with cuts from the chuck, round, or recipe-ready beef, such as cubed stew beef, ground beef crumbles and frozen beef meatballs.
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ORANGE CITY, Iowa — COVID-19 has not only jarred the nation, but also the beef industry from the farm level to the consumer. For consumers, behavioral changes include where they dine, how they purchase, and what cuts they prepare and cook. Stay-at-home recommendations changed their dining location. Traditionally, food at-home represented 46% of food expenditures, whereas food away-from-home was 54% of total food expenditures. Beginning March 15, the percentage of breakfast, lunch and dinner meals eaten at home increased, with beef most frequently included in the dinner meal. As dine-in phased out, restaurants and fast-food businesses turned to take-away and home delivery, which could have future implications in the U.S. In an analysis of China’s COVID-19 recovery, 86% of the consumers reported they would eat at home more often than before the outbreak occurred. Time will reveal if U.S. consumers will also adopt more in-home dining. With COVID-19 spreading across the U.S. and more consumers staying home, they began buying and stockpiling a two- to four-week supply of beef. Beef volume sales for the week of March 22 increased 80% compared to the comparable week in 2019. But, while there may be temporary disruptions in the food supply chain at some
Recognizing the challenge in cooking less-familiar cuts, the beef industry has ramped up help to assist the consumer. Chuck Knows Beef is an online source of information about various cuts, recipes and cooking tips that can be accessed from the consumer’s computer or mobile phone at beefitswhatsfordinner.com/chuck. Meanwhile, it’s not too early to start thinking about how you will celebrate Mother’s Day at home. To help you enjoy a taste of Hawaii, feast on a Hawaiian ribeye steak with grilled pineapple salad or, for a more limited budget, grill beef, pepper and mushroom kabobs.
Recipes for both are available at Chuck Knows Beef. And, if you are looking for a gift for the graduate amidst COVID-19, consider giving a beef certificate. Certificates are available in $10, $15, $20 and $25 denominations and are good toward the purchase of beef from a restaurant of their choice or a grocery store. To learn about the beef certificate program, contact the Iowa Beef Industry Council at iabeef.org or call (515) 296-2305. Finally, don’t forget to thank the people in the food chain that work daily to keep food on your table. They, too, are on the front lines!
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• Wednesday, April 15, 2020 • 3
Bullerman becomes Rock-Nobles Beef Ambassador Rural Adrian teen chosen to represent the cattle industry earlier this year By Julie Buntjer jbuntjer@dglobe.com ADRIAN — Brynn Bullerman has been leading beef cattle into the show ring and showing their best features before judges since she was 6 years old. In her own way, she’s been showing and telling her story as a farmer’s daughter and a third-generation beef producer. Now, as one of two Rock-Nobles Beef Ambassadors, Bullerman gets to represent the cattle industry on a whole new level. You’ll find her at various events promoting beef, taking part in area parades and not only competing in cattle shows this summer, but handing out ribbons to fellow competitors as well. Bullerman is one of two Beef Ambassadors to represent the Rock-Nobles Cattlemen. She joins Whitney Elbers of rural Hills, who’s in her second year in the leadership role.
“I’ve been working with cattle with my dad since I’ve been very little,” said Bullerman, whose dad, Tyler, represents the second generation of the Bullerman Angus Farm in rural Adrian. The farm was founded and is still owned by her grandparents, Tom and Trish Bullerman. Now a junior at Luverne High School, working in the family business is Bullerman’s part-time job — and fulltime during the summer months. “Since I was little I’ve helped around the farm doing daily chores and working with our show animals,” she said. The family’s purebred Angus operation focuses on performance and genetics — creating the best production animals, and now working to create high quality show stock. The farm hosts an online female sale every fall and a bull sale every winter in collaboration with Larchwood, Iowa beef (Special to The Globe) producers Keith and Julie Moser. Brynn Bullerman joins her dad, Tyler, for a photo on their family's Angus cattle
BULLERMAN: Page 10 farm in rural Adrian.
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4 • The Globe • Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Dairy princesses team up to promote their industry By Julie Buntjer jbuntjer@dglobe.com NOBLES COUNTY — Nobles County’s two teenage dairy princesses think alike when it comes to their favorite dish of dairy deliciousness — ice cream. Karen Dykstra of rural Bigelow and Alysha Wieneke of rural Adrian are wrapping up their first year as reigning princesses and are eager to continue to promote the dairy industry as they eye a second year of waving in parades, talking to consumers and handing out dairy treats at various events around the county. Both hope to continue to represent the industry locally until they are eligible to compete for the opportunity to reign as Princess Kay of the Milky Way, the title given to one young woman in Minnesota’s dairy industry each year. Local dairy princesses can compete for the title once they have graduated from high school. Dykstra and Wieneke each come from multi-generational dairy farms — and each of their family’s operations are comprised of approximately 300 head of primarily Holstein milk cows. With their knowledge of dairying, the pair are working to spread the good news about the dairy industry and the importance of including dairy in one’s diet. “We’ve done quite a few parades, and this year we’re planning to do interviews with kids and help spread love for dairy,” Dykstra said.
Last year, the princesses hosted a dairy workshop during the county fair, which sparked a lot of interest. They also participated in Worthington’s Park Hop in early September, where they distributed coloring books and cheese sticks to children. Then, earlier this year, the pair was on hand at the local home show, serving milk, yogurt and cheeses to attendees. “I honestly like going to the events and talking with the kids and being able to promote the dairy industry,” shared Wieneke, noting that they talk to youths not only about the dairy cows and how they are raised, but the benefits of drinking milk as well. “Dairy products are a really good source of calcium,” Wieneke said. “It provides nutrients for your body that you can’t really get from anywhere else.” “Milk’s got a refreshing taste to it — it tastes good,” she added. Dykstra said she and Wieneke are planning to lead a dairy-related activity for summer school students sometime this summer, and they’re also talking about having a booth at the county fair so they can meet with consumers, hand out samples of cheese sticks and offer coloring books for children. They’re even talking about having a photo booth so people can have their picture taken with the dairy princesses, Dykstra shared.
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Nobles County Dairy Princesses Alysha Wieneke (left) and Karen Dykstra were both crowned in the early summer of 2019. They will begin their second year as PRINCESSES: Page 8 dairy industry promoters this summer.
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Pin the Tail on the Donkey WORTHINGTON — I think news that all the rest of socieveryone has played Pin the ety is in regard to COVIDTail on the Donkey at some 19. We are all experiencing point in their childhood days. the same ugly virus China had It’s that game where you get in December. blindfolded and then spun This virus has shuttered around several times to lose the entire world economy and your sense of direction. Next, decimated trade. This adds to MIKE you attempt to try to pin the the farmers’ difficulties, but missing tail onto the donno longer excludes the rest of DIERKS key in the right location on the economy. United as AmerMN West a game board hung on the Farm Business icans, we are all watching telewall. It is funny to watch the Management vision news, listening to radio blindfolded person pin the and scanning Internet articles tail to a leg, shoulder, face to search for the truth and or even on the tree pictured in reality in these uncertain times. the background. The dollar index is high because I started to write this article four foreign countries put their trust in the weeks ago. Every week I have changed U.S. dollar. Therefore, our goods cost most of this article due to the fluid more than other countries’ goods. If conditions in our economy. Now, I sit you are looking to buy wheat, oil or here at the deadline again re-writing toilet paper, you will go to the cheapthe article because of all the intense est source if there are ample supplies. movements in markets. With a strong dollar index, we are I was supposed to write an arti- not the cheapest supplier; therefore cle about the farm economy. Right our economy is struggling more than out of the gate, the crystal ball for most with stabilized world trade. the farm economy has been cloudy As COVID-19 ramped up in March, and uncertain to start the new year. commodity prices and stock marHere is the brutal truth: Farmers ket values plummeted. We could all are experiencing the same dismal use a rich friend willing to share
his savings account right now. This pandemic has changed how the world is operating. It will change how our society and farming will look and operate in the future. The new normal is unknown and called fluid. “Fluid” is described in the dictionary as a substance that has no fixed shape and easily yields to external pressures. Restaurants, airlines, cruise ships, bars, hair salons, bankers and farmers are all feeling their markets react to external pressures. Under these fluid circumstances, it’s hard to give sound advice. Someone told me the other day, “Mike, everyone will have to hunker down and weather through the storm if they want to survive.” The reactions to COVID-19 have been a heavy load for all of us to lift in this economy. Our economy and businesses are trying to evolve into something new and recovery will eventually return for those who have creativity, stamina and the ability to adapt and change for the common good. It is impossible to mitigate decisions of risk without a good vision. Our society currently has a lot of unanswered questions. Visions are not clear. Some would say it is like being blindfolded
• Wednesday, April 15, 2020 • 5
and trying to play Pin the Tail on the Donkey! A nurse made a comment a week ago that will be interesting to observe in nine months. She said the medical field is speculating there will be a new COVID-19 + 1 event. The undocumented theory is there will be side effects from staying home for 60 to 90 days with travel restrictions and limited activities placed on the general public. It should start showing up nine months from now, most likely in New York. In the meantime, as you observe empty shelves for toilet paper, breads and meats, remember to thank a farmer next time you see them. We still have the most abundant, healthiest food supply in the world. Also, I would be ungrateful if I did not ask all of you to also say a giant thank you to the medical field, first responders and essential workers for the extreme courage and strength they live with daily. They are fighting this new invisible virus with courage and hope so our health and our nation can continue to operate in a fluid but effective manner. Your faith, strength and resilience is appreciated and admired. Bless you and thank you!
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MARL From Page 1
Both Cambodia and Taiwan rely mostly on totally different crops than anything found in southwest Minnesota, she explained. The group toured fields of rice and cassava, a cashew farm and a fruit tree farm of oranges, bananas and coconuts. Some alterations to the original itinerary became necessary throughout the two-week trip, and Evers said that although that was somewhat stressful, “it helped me look at change positively.” Overall, Evers said, she has some clear outcomes for her professional life as a result of her participation in the MARL program. As a water quality specialist, she covers 11 counties, each with unique challenges and assets. Evers said in the future, she plans to use the strengths of each water district within her jurisdiction, rather than outlining the same conservation plan universally. MARL also helped Evers strengthen her interpersonal skills, making her a clearer communicator and teaching her how to navigate conflict if and when it arises. “I am grateful to have had the opportunity to go through the program,” she concluded.
Krista Kopperud
Kopperud summed up her MARL experience in one word: “incredible.” The Currie vintner reflected on the last two years with consideration for how she can support others in agriculture both locally and nationally. In Cambodia, agriculture is a much smaller scale enterprise than in the United States, she explained. Cambodians use less technology and smaller machinery in farming, making the process more labor intensive than
Special to The Globe
MARL Class X visited Minnesota Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith during their week in Washington, D.C. mechanized. Kopperud compared Cambodian farming in 2020 to what the United States was doing in the 1950s, in terms of process and yield. While some might see this disparity as discouraging, she described it as a sign of progress in the face of hardship. Cambodia is a developing country that has experienced political unrest for decades. The fact that farmers were able to develop their industry as much as they have is an encouraging sign, Kopperud said. She wondered if a key to helping developing countries in agriculture might be sharing knowledge and/or systems that have proven effective in the United States. When Kopperud began the MARL program, she was working for Murray County Health and Human Services. She now operates Painted Prairie Vineyard with her husband, Andy. MARL was “the catalyst for going full-time at the vineyard,” Kopperud said. “Being in that program gave me the confidence to say, ‘OK, this is a leap of faith, but I’m going to do it.’” Kopperud is the only one of the four local MARL Class X members who grows fruit, but she grew up in Heron Lake on a hog, soybean and corn farm. MARL “reconnected me back to those roots,” she said. “It opened up my eyes to the diversity of agriculture in Minnesota.”
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The program also ignited an interest in public policy within Kopperud. “There was so much energy in D.C.,” she said, adding that she learned what it takes to see movement on a bill and eventually get it passed. Visiting Washington also gave Kopperud the confidence to speak up about her passion, she said. She is an emphatic advocate for rural broadband, and now has additional skills and knowledge to fight for additional infrastructure. “The MARL program has had short-term impact,” Kopperud said, “and I continue to see that the confidence and skills will stick with me for a long time.”
Matt Altman
Altman said one of the most significant benefits of MARL has been networking opportunities. “When we first showed up, you really didn’t know what to expect,” he said, admitting that when he first met his talented and driven classmates, he didn’t feel like he belonged in the MARL program. After a few months, the group relaxed and opened up to each other, Altman said. “You all of a sudden have 29 new members of your family,” he said. The class members spent many hours together bouncing around ideas
and sharing knowledge, and now have each other as resources for the rest of their lives. Unlike the other local members of Class X, Altman did not go on the international trip. Cambodia has some positive cases of African Swine Fever, and since Altman works at JBS, he passed on the trip out of an abundance of caution. Altman’s biggest personal take away from MARL is a passion for community leadership. He has been nominated to serve on the board of the Worthington Regional Economic Development Corp. (WREDC), and will use his term to consider how to make Worthington the best possible place to live. “I’m really invigorated and excited,” he said. “To me, Worthington is very unique.” As MARL took him to all corners of the state, he found that folks from other places know about Worthington. “It’s not like other communities in rural Minnesota,” he said. “It’s growing and thriving.” Worthington has rare assets, he noted, such as Lake Okabena and numerous parks. However, Altman named the city’s people as Worthington’s best feature. “It’s such a diverse community that’s so accepting of each other,” he said. While Worthington is already great, Altman is excited to work with the WREDC to make the town the best it can possibly be. Altman must have made quite an impression on his classmates and MARL organizers, as he was selected to serve on the MARL Board of Directors as the Class X representative. “You won’t find a better leadership program,” Altman said of MARL. He encourages anyone who is interested: “If you’re on the fence, apply.”
MARL: Page 10
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The Globe
• Wednesday, April 15, 2020 • 7
Looking to lead
Mike and Dawn Kunerth participate in American Soybean Association program for young leaders By Ryan McGaughey rmcgaughey@dglobe.com BREWSTER — Mike and Dawn Kunerth are not only carrying on a family farming tradition, but hoping to do all they can to make sure that same tradition continues for many others across the nation. The Kunerths recently took part in the American Soybean Association’s Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program, during which they attended four-day trainings in both Indianapolis, Indiana, and San Antonio, Texas. The program’s goal is to help provide the soybean industry — and all of agriculture — with strong and forward-thinking grower leaders. “The program focuses on leader development and emphasizes collaboration, providing us with growers who are working together to amplify the voice of the farmer,” ASA President Bill Gordon said. As fifth-generation farmers in rural Brewster, the Kunerths knew the importance of connecting with — and advocating for — other farmers. Agriculture seemed like an inevitable way of life for both, as MIke Kunerth described. “At the time I went to college in the late 1980s, the farm economy was not that great,” he recalled. “I went into business with a business degree from St. John’s University, and my wife also has a business degree from Southwest State University.” By the spring of 1990, however, the Kunerths were farming the land on which Mike grew up. Dawn was no stranger to farm life, either, as she grew up on a farm near Rushmore that
included corn, soybean and livestock production — just as her husband’s family farm had. “After we got married, we used to background feed Holstein steers for about 15 years,” Mike said. Mike and Dawn started their own business, Kunerth Seed Center, more than 25 years ago. Between farming and the seed business — along with having four children (two are now out of college working on their own, while one is a college student and the other a senior in high school) — there has been plenty to keep them busy, Yet, they wanted to do more. “A little over a year ago, my wife and I were at an awards banquet in Sioux Falls and we happened to listen to Bill Gordon speak,” Mike explained “After his speech, I went up and shook his hand and asked him if there was an opportunity to pursue any venue or program as far as being a voice for agriculture. He said, ‘Let me see what I can do.’” As a result, last summer the Kunerths completed interviews with the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council Board of Directors for an opportunity to participate in the ASA’s Young Leader Program. The program has been supported by Corteva Agriscience for many years. The Kunerths were eventually contacted and told they were one of two Minnesota groups accepted. Participation in the 35th class of the young leader program consisted of two components. “The first one was in Indianapolis back in December, and that was an opportunity to kind of enhance our
Special to The Globe
Mike and Dawn Kunerth (center) display the plaque they received for their selection and participation in the American Soybean Association’s Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program. At left is American Soybean Association President Bill Gordon; at right is Adelai Swanson of Corteva. skills and a great chance to network with 18 others from across the Soybean Belt — and there was another couple from the province of Ontario, Canada,” Mike said. Those four days of training were followed by a Feb. 25-29 trip to San Antonio, a time that Mike described as being devoted to developing a “heightened awareness” of ways their leadership could make an impact. “We talked more about industry updates and collaboration with former and present ASA and different soybean board directors that we had met and had breakout sessions down there,” Mike said. “They were full days of rigorous training,” he continued. “It was very, very insightful. We had industry leaders come in and focus on the crystal points of the economy surrounding the soybean business and how awareness can make a difference. There may be far (geographical) distance between us, but our common goal and interests in the soybean industry are very similar on how we can be a voice for the American soybean producers.” Over the course of the program’s eight days, Mike said lifelong connections were made with many of the participating couples, not to mention the learning opportunities from multiple
farming operations. Most importantly, the Kunerths now have a better notion of how to be “a voice and backbone” for soybean producers. “That’s important — especially because right now, with the present economy and pandemic situation at hand, we’re at a very critical point for everyone in the U.S.,” Mike said. “It also heightens the awareness of our food chain, and also the safety of our products that we produce.” Mike said that despite the current and likely future challenges awaiting farmers, he does his best to look on the bright side. He’s aware that the COVID19 pandemic is almost certainly going to create struggles in not just agriculture, but the local economy as a whole. Their labor of love, however, will continue as always. “I call farmers eternally optimistic people,” he said. “We learn through all our trials and tribulations; we pick ourselves up and continue on. I firmly believe that in less than a year, things are going to be dramatically different.” The Kunerths’ participation in the ASA Young Leader program is through the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council, which invests soybean checkoff money into developing Minnesota farmer leaders. Mike Kunerth will now serve a year on the MSGA board of directors. For more information on the program, contact Doug Monson at (507) 995-7534.
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8 • The Globe • Wednesday, April 15, 2020 Special to The Globe
Alysha Wieneke (left) and Karen Dykstra are each shown exhibiting in the Nobles County Fair 4-H Dairy Show last summer.
PRINCESSES
On the family’s dairy farm, Alysha usually helps with calf chores, From Page 4 including bottle-feeding the daysold calves, and filling in for her brother when he’s busy. She also They will have to juggle their enjoys riding along with her dad in schedules, though, as both are the feed truck. Nobles County 4-H members and “I help out where I’m needed,” she will be showing their dairy animals said. “I help the vet with herd health in competition. Also, as local dairy and put stuff into the computer farm families, they will take their for dad.” turns serving up delicious malts in Wieneke’s dad and uncle startthe American Dairy Association’s ed the family dairy business, and malt stand. her grandpa still helps out in the “You get lots of questions and it’s operation. With Grant already plankind of fun talking to people,” Dyk- ning to continue the family business, stra said of the experience last year, Wieneke said she hopes to be able to when she wore her crown and sash come back and help out on the farm as she served up malts. Her favorite after she’s settled in a career. At malt flavor is strawberry. this point, she’s considering a future Wieneke, too, enjoys the opportu- either in nursing or teaching history. nity to work in the malt stand. As for Dykstra, 17, is the daughter of Steve a favorite flavor? and Esther Dykstra, and is a junior at “I’m really not biased when it Worthington High School. She has an comes to ice cream,” she said, noting older brother, Carl, and four younger that her favorite ice cream product is siblings — Trent, Stephanie, Paula actually ice cream sandwiches. and Lanae. Wieneke, 17, is the daughter of Chores on the farm fill Dykstra’s Chad and Teresa Wieneke, and is a days during the summer months. Her junior at Adrian High School. She primary duties include lawn mowing has an older brother, Grant, and a — both at the home farm as well as younger sister, Addison. for a neighbor — cleaning tractors
and delivering meals to the men in the field. She also spends a lot of time working with the dairy animals she exhibits in the 4-H dairy show. Through 4-H, Dykstra has exhibited dairy animals at both the county fair and Minnesota State Fair. Also, as a member of the Worthington FFA Chapter, she has competed in both the dairy foods and dairy Career Development Events. Last year, she and her teammates placed first in the region, and they were hoping for a repeat again this year. School
closures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, have put competitions on hold — including the Minnesota FFA Convention that was planned later this month. “I was really looking forward to it — I had been studying for two months,” Dykstra said of the contest. With one more year of high school remaining, Dykstra said she isn’t sure yet what her plans are after graduation. “I definitely want to be involved in agriculture,” she said.
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The Globe
• Wednesday, April 15, 2020 • 9
Spring management of prevent plant acres WORTHINGTON — The spring planting season is soon upon us. Prevent plant acres, or fields that were too wet to be planted to a cash crop last year, may need some special attention this season. As final preparations are made for planting, suggested strategies will depend on how these areas were managed in 2019. In fields where a cover crop was planted: Have a termination plan for cover crops that overwintered, such as cereal rye. To protect yield, a general guideline is to terminate the cover crop 10 to 14 days prior to planting the cash crop — particularly if planting corn, since an overwintering cover crop can create a “green bridge” for insect and disease pests. This timing can be less stringent for soybeans, although it is recommended to terminate the cover crop prior to planting to minimize risk. If a non-winter hardy cover crop was planted like oats, the cold temperatures of winter should have taken care of termination. Sometimes, however, some radish or turnips can survive the winter, or seeds will germinate in the spring instead of the previous year. Check fields for survivors and apply an appropriate burndown herbicide around planting time as needed to ensure these plants do not compete with the cash crop. If a herbicide is used for termination, apply when the cover crop is actively growing and use an appropriate rate for the cover crop growth stage. For more on spring management of cover crops and termination tips, visit https://bit.ly/2xShI35. As far as planting into cover crop residue this spring, most planters are well equipped to handle moderate lev-
loss due to fallow syndrome, while soybean is at low risk. If you are planning to plant corn in a field at risk STAHL of fallow syndrome, the best course U of M of action is to band phosphorus and Extension chelated zinc directly on the seed as a starter at planting. A normal application of 10-34-0 at a rate of els of residue. Be sure to check for good five gallons per acre should be sufseed to soil contact, planting depth, ficient. Be sure to not apply too high seed placement and any other issues, of a rate directly with the seed due and be prepared to make adjustments to risk of root damage to corn (and especially soybean). if necessary. For more information on preThe following article provides useful tips for planting into higher residue venting fallow syndrome in corn, visit https://bit.ly/2JGJVwB. situations: https://bit.ly/2JPL5Wl. In fields or areas where no manNote that cover crops can provide agement was done/possible: benefits like increasing infiltration, but In fields or areas where manageplanning ahead can help implement ment was not possible (e.g. too wet, cover crops successfully. If you used inaccessible with equipment) and cover crops for the first time in a weeds took over, a tremendous conprevent plant situation, but like what tribution to the weed seedbank was you’re seeing in terms of soil condilikely made. Although tillage would tions, 2020 could be a year to expand help bury weed seeds, burial can help your experiment to different species or enhance survivability of weed seeds planting methods. and subsequent tillage operations will The Midwest Cover Crop Council and bring weed seeds back to the soil UMN Extension have Cover Crop Recisurface. Leaving seeds on the soil pes and a species selector tool to help surface by avoiding tillage this spring you make a plan for cover crops in 2020 available at http://mccc.msu.edu/. In fields where tillage was used to control weeds and nothing was planted: Fallow syndrome is a risk in fields where there was little to no plant growth last year. Fallow syndrome occurs when populations of “good fungi” called vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizae (VAM) are dramatically reduced because VAM fungi need actively growing roots to survive. VAM fungi assist in the uptake of phosphorus, zinc and other nutrients with limited mobility in the soil. Corn is at the greatest risk of yield LIZABETH
507-842-2001 | www.newvision.coop
will leave them more susceptible to predation and decay, thus lowering weed seedbank levels. A burndown herbicide may be needed in these areas to target early-emerging weeds, and an application of a preemergence herbicide at the full labeled rate is recommended. Be sure to scout these fields, and use a layered approach where you apply another preemergence herbicide with the postemergence herbicide application about 30 days after planting, as needed. Apply to small (less than 3 inches), actively growing weeds, and ensure you have good coverage where weed populations are thick. Be sure to check herbicide labels for recommended rates and application restrictions. Check out the effectiveness of University of Minnesota/North Dakota State University Preemergence and Postemergence Diversification Strategies for key problem weeds in Minnesota at https://bit.ly/2V9ZvWy. University of Minnesota Soil Health Specialist Anna Cates and Extension Crops Educator Lisa Behnken contributed to this article.
10 • The Globe • Wednesday, April 15, 2020
MARL
intermingled, which Crawford said he wouldn’t have expected. From Page 6 The developing country structures its economy around foreignGrant Crawford ers and Americans in particular, he “A highlight for me was learning explained. Almost all the locals spoke about agriculture and rural commu- enough English to communicate, and nities in the state of Minnesota,” though Cambodia has its own curCrawford said. rency, the U.S. dollar was used just as The Jasper resident in charge of frequently, if not more. beef cattle nutrition at Merck Animal By contrast, Taipei — other than Health said it was enlightening to the street signs being in Chinese — visit places within the same state that looked like it could be any major U.S. rely on totally different agricultural city, Crawford said. Although Taiwan foci. For example, the class trip to is a first-world country, locals didn’t the Iron Range included visiting iron speak English, and vendors did not mines and a forestry plot, as well as accept American currency. a boat tour of Duluth Harbor with Crawford said exposure to internainformation about how harbor com- tional agriculture made him a more merce impacts the state economy. aware and well-rounded leader. The Other in-state excursions included MARL program taught him skills he (Tim Middagh / The Globe) a tour of Hormel in Austin, during will carry into his professional and Brynn Bullerman (front) is shown with the cow-calf pair she exhibited at the 2019 which the company’s impact on the personal life. Nobles County Fair in Worthington. community and its efforts to retain “There’s a lot of experiences I four to eight cattle at the county jobs for local residents was discussed. won’t ever forget,” he said. Travel through MARL X reinClass X’s MARL graduation was fair each year in August. She also forced for Crawford that “it’s always originally scheduled for April 3, but shows the family’s cattle at the Clay From Page 3 County Fair in Spencer, Iowa, each important to consider other perspec- due to coronavirus social distancing Bullerman assists wherever need- September, and at the Minnesota tives,” and the trip to Asia brought a measures, the ceremony has been postponed to late June. ed on the farm, from checking Beef Expo on the state fairgrounds few surprises. In Cambodia, the group witnessed Applications for MARL pastures and helping with calving in mid-October. extreme poverty and extreme wealth, Class XI are open through to training and fitting cattle for the “I really enjoy learning new things show ring. about the cattle industry and being without a middle class. In the capital, April 24 and can be found at “I very much enjoy being with the able to communicate with other peo- Phnom Penh, these extremes were marlprogram.org/application. animals,” she said. “You get used ple in the cattle industry,” said Bullto certain cows, and you just get to erman, who gets those opportunities spend time outside.” during the show season. For her, it’s Since her dad does the embryo a chance to learn new things. transfer work in the operaAs she now works to represent the tion, she enjoys helping with that beef industry, Bullerman said she’s aspect as well. found there are “quite a few issues” “I try to be around when he does that people just aren’t educated on Contact us for your it because I find it interesting,” said — particularly when it comes to how confinement operation Bullerman, who is currently consid- cattle are raised and the health benering a college major in beef animal efits of eating beef. waste needs. nutrition. Her top two college choicBeef is definitely a part of Bulleres are the University of Wiscon- man’s diet, from burgers to steak. JR sin-River Falls and the University of Her favorite beef product is a ribeye Minnesota at this time. — grilled by her dad, of course. John A member of the Grand Prairie “I definitely let my dad do the Rockets 4-H Club in Nobles County, grilling — he’s a lot better than I Justin Bullerman exhibits anywhere from am,” she said with a laugh.
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The Globe
• Wednesday, April 15, 2020 • 11
Farmers can sign up for WHIP+ program now WORTHINGTON — The insured Crop Disaster AssisWHIP+ program has expanded tance Program (NAP) coverage to include producers impacted are available. by drought and excess moisture For crop years 2018 and 2019, related to 2018 and 2019 natusign-up began Sept. 11, 2019 ral disasters. FSA is gathering and continues into 2020 with data and input from producno signup deadline yet estabers and stakeholders regarding lished. Applications are acceptDAVE the extent and types of quality ed for 2018 prevent plant acreloss nationwide. age and for yield losses due to BAU To be eligible for WHIP+, flooding for 2018 or 2019. U of M producers must have suffered To apply, producers must Extension losses of certain crops, trees, file a WHIP+ application (form bushes or vines in counties FSA-894), notice of loss on all with a Presidential Emergencrops and acreage report (form cy Disaster Declaration or a Secre- FSA-578). The acreage report should tarial Disaster Designation (prima- cover total acreage and prevented ry counties only) for natural disaster plant acres. FSA county committees events including hurricanes, floods, will review prevented planting acres tornadoes, typhoons, volcanic activ- for program benefits. ity, snowstorms, wildfires and now excessive moisture that occurred WHIP+, Do I Qualify? Did you suffer a yield loss (2018 or in 2018 or 2019. Also, losses in a county not designated as a primary 2019) or have prevent plant (2018 only) county may be eligible if the pro- acres that earned an RMA indemnity? ducer provides documentation show- Was the disaster due to a qualifying ing the loss was due to a qualifying cause of loss? You will need to prove to the county committee’s satisfaction natural disaster. Because livestock losses are covered that the loss was caused by an eligiby other disaster recovery programs, ble weather event. Indicate on a map where the loss occurred: RMA map, they are not eligible for WHIP+. The WHIP+ program was originally Planter map or FSA map. You then established for losses due to wildfires, must file a WHIP+ application and hurricanes and other natural disas- notice of loss with the FSA Office. Payments 2018 crop year losses will ters. It was expanded last year to cover direct losses due to flooding, snow- be paid at 100% of the calculated storms and tornadoes. Eligible crops payment. For the 2019 and 2020 crop must be planted or prevented from years, an initial 50% of the calculated being planted and include crops for payment will be issued. After Jan. 1, which federal crop insurance or Non- 2020, if appropriated funds remain, an
HEADS UP POWER LINES ARE HOT!
Coming in contact with overhead power lines can be deadly. Today’s farm machinery is bigger and taller, making the danger of working around electric lines greater than ever. Spring can be the most dangerous time of all.
Make sure all family members understand these rules:
NICKEL & ASSOCIATES
• Utility lines are uninsulated. Don’t let your body become a direct link to the ground or the result could be fatal. • Know the clearance height of all farm equipment. To be safe, keep all objects at least 10 feet away from overhead lines. • NEVER attempt to raise or move a power line. If you’re operating equipment that touches a line, stay where you are and have someone call the utility. • If you must leave the equipment, jump as far as you can so that no part of your body touches the equipment and the ground at the same time. 001821778r1
INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.
Preserve your livelihood with an agribusiness policy that safeguards your farm and everything on it, from buildings and machinery to crops and livestock.
additional payment up to the remain- the decreased costs incurred by proing 50% calculated payment will ducers when the crop is not harvested or is prevented from being planted. be paid. There are payment factors applied if WHIP+ Payment Calculation the crop was unharvested or prevent The WHIP payment formula is: planted to adjust for decreased harvest WHIP+ payment = the expected value costs. There is no payment factor for of the crop x the WHIP factor - the harvested production. actual value of the crop harvested x the Linkage Requirement: As a conpayment factor - the NAP payment or dition of payment eligibility, procrop insurance indemnity received by ducers must obtain crop insurance the producer. The WHIP factor ranges or NAP, as applicable, on the crop from 70% to 95%. paid under WHIP+. Crop insurance The WHIP factor is 70% for produc- or NAP must be obtained for the ers who did not obtain crop insurance first two available consecutive crop or NAP coverage. The WHIP factor is years after the enrollment period between 75% and 95% for produc- ends, but no later than 2022 and 2023. ers who did obtain crop insurance or Crop insurance or NAP policy coverNAP coverage. Producers who elected age level must be at a level of 60/100 the highest coverage level will receive or equivalent. 95%. Your FSA offices are open for phone The payment factor varies by state appointments and calls if you have and commodity, and is set to reflect further questions.
1709 N. HUMISTON AVENUE, WORTHINGTON, MN 56187 | PH: 507-376-9788 • FAX: 507-376-9155 • 1-866-376-9788
22636 US Hwy. 59 - P.O. Box 788 Worthington, MN 56187-0788
800-776-0517
Your Touchstone Energy® Cooperative
Website: noblesce.coop • E-mail: nce@noblesce.com
This Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity Provider & Employer.
12 • The Globe • Wednesday, April 15, 2020
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