THE LAND ~ June 16, 2017 ~ Southern Edition

“Since 1976, Where Farm and Family Meet” © 2017

June 16, 2017

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SOUTHERN EDITION

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INSIDE:

The Land’s annual County Fair-Goers Guide

2017 r u o y d ceive CARD? ay! e r e w Have SCRIPTIOrnNto page 3 right aw SUB nt it back, tu Land! ven’t se If you ha

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Don’t m

Power to the People!

Farmers are turning to solar power to lighten energy costs See page 10

ALSO INSIDE:

Holy George Jetson! Robots in the dairy barn A visit to Farmamerica

County fairs deserve support

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

2

P.O. Box 3169 418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56002 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XLI ❖ No. 13 40 pages, 2 sections plus supplements

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Cover photo by Paul Malchow

COLUMNS Opinion Farm and Food File Calendar of Events Cooking with Kristin The Back Porch In The Garden From The Fields Mielke Market Weekly Marketing Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads

2-4 3 4 5 6 8 13 17-18 14-15 24-31 31 32

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

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The good old days are still here and deemed worthy of the fair. I think my appearing in a town near you. mother felt the color of our prize ribbons were a direct reflection on her and there Few things bring out sappy nostalgia was no way she was going to look bad in like a good old county fair. Even the prosfront of the whole county. pect of an impending return to school could not dampen the excitement of those Some projects were judged at a later five days in August for a young boy. date, which called for several trips to the 4-H building on judging day to see what Growing up on a dairy farm, family you won. But other projects were judged vacations were few and far between.

LAND MINDS as you arrived on the first day. Waiting in Although my dad farmed with his brothline to see the judge was a harrowing By Paul Malchow er, who was a very skilled dairyman in ordeal. Not because of fear of the white his own right, dad was hesitant to ribbon, but because many of the judges leave “the girls” to sleep in a strange knew my parents. I was sure they bed, eat strange food, and be cooped up would get together with the judge inside a hot Chevy sedan (no AC) with three kids in detailing all of the shortcomings of my project; my the back seat who had definite boundaries of their parents exclaiming how lackadaisical I was in prepersonal space. paring for the fair and how surprised they were that So the county fair was my version of vacation. The he or she had given me any kind of ribbon at all. carnival from New Jersey was about as exotic as you In this respect, I’m glad I grew up in a simpler could get. Shady-looking men with rough tattoos era.

The hard work and creativity displayed in held your life in their hands as they operated the today’s 4-H projects are worth a trip to the county rides. There was Professional Rasslin’ at the grandfair in themselves.

Project subjects now seem more stand where you could see The Crusher and Dr. X — topical and scientific. Visitors will see presentations just like on television BUT IN THE FLESH! Brightly-colored stands sold food which your mother on global warming, economics and government. Food projects go well beyond four cupcakes on a paper was never going to make at home. Machinery Hill was filled with gleaming behemoths with giant tires plate. 4-H’ers are now well-versed in various areas and … cabs! It was like a little clubhouse perched on of nutrition and health. (If you still consider ketchup a vegetable, a corn dog contains three of the four top of an International Harvester. And free stuff! food groups.) Besides flirting with the opposite sex, Pencils, notebooks, balloons, calendars and handy those kids in the cattle barn can discuss genetics, kitchen trinkets could all be had if you were polite feed quality and animal health. Not only do clothing enough and not too greedy. Yardsticks were a little tougher for a kid to acquire and I was always suspi- projects show off some incredible craftsmanship; entrants know their fashion and fabric as well. cious when someone my age had one.

Fight the feeling that a sixth-grader knows more Even something as mundane as the cattle barn about alternative energy than you do and see what had a special allure. I secretly envied the kids who these youngsters have to offer. had animals at the fair and their coolers and radios Outside of 4-H, there are many other sources of and primitive lean-tos. Spending the entire five information for today’s families. Many businesses days on the fairgrounds seemed like heaven to me. and organizations have booths staffed with knowlAs I got older, it seemed the girls liked to hang out edgeable people who can answer your questions. in the barns and flirt with the boys. Strictly cattle Looking for a new roof or windows? Got a sick begoor horses, though. Pigs and sheep never quite nia with more leaves on the ground than on the seemed to have the same draw. plant? Need to tell a local politician what a great The Malchows were a 4-H family which meant job they are doing? Want to join a group of leftpreparing projects for exhibit at the fair. My mother handed model airplane enthusiasts? You might just reveled in the duty of fair project enforcer and was find what you’re looking for at the fair. not to be trifled with. Vegetables were carefully With all that is new at today’s county fair, many scrubbed with a soft toothbrush to remove the dirt things remain the same. Is there anything better but not damage the skin. My sister baked and than a frosty milkshake on a hot summer day? canned for days. It was not unusual to have four or See LAND MINDS, pg. 6 five layer cakes in the kitchen before one was

OPINION

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

12 — Clean Energy Resource Teams are available to help with projects 19 — Robots tend to the herd for Owatonna dairy family

22 — FarmAmerica mixes history with modern agriculture THERE’S EVEN MORE ONLINE... @ TheLandOnline.com • “SHOP” • “Nuts & Bolts” • “Calendar of Events” • “E-Edition”

You’re getting warmer …

OPINION

Dear Readers, To all of you who have already turned in your 2017 subscriber card, we sincerely thank you. You can stop reading this letter now.

This letter is for everyone currently receiving The Land that has not returned a subscriber card within the last three years. Chances are very good that your subscription will stop as of July 1. I just wanted to let you know before that happens so you don’t have to wonder why The Land is not showing up in your mailbox. If you don’t want your delivery to get interrupted, here’s what you need to do.

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E XSPO E LRU I ETN CN ES IO

LITIGA I O N • B •UFARM S I N E• S SPERSONAL • FARM • PERSONAL LITIGATION • TBUSINESS

3 THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

In a White House Rose nities still carry the searing Garden ceremony on June scars of the dirty, hungry 1, President Donald J. Dust Bowl days of the Trump announced he would 1930s and devastating pull the United States from floods in 1973 and 1993. the Paris treaty on global Mankind may not have climate change. It was a been the root cause of these matter of national soverdisasters, but it did add to eignty, explained Trump.

FARM & FOOD FILE them and our failure to not Or, as he colorfully noted, even plan for their possibiliBy Alan Guebert “I was elected to represent ty cost thousands their lives the citizens of and many more thouPittsburgh, not Paris.” sands their livelihoods.

True, but he was electToday, another generaed to represent Paris, Ill.; Paris, Ky.; tion of farm and ranch leaders again Paris, Idaho; Paris, Ark.; Paris, Maine; must decide if Mother Nature is a Paris, Mich. and Paris, Iowa and Paris, partner or a hired hand. As the Trump Ind. What’s more, if national polling White House sees it, it’s the latter. She holds true in these somewhat lesser works for us. Moreover, as a matter of cities of light, then two out of every national interest, she’s now on notice. three American Parisians see climate Wise farmers and ranchers everychange as a global, national, commuwhere know, however, it’s the former. nity, and personal threat.

That’s not liberalism or politics; it’s Still, the President acted. How will experience and common sense.

U.S. and world agriculture react?

Another blind spot in Perdue’s The always-sunny Secretary of endorsement of Trump’s climate policy Agriculture Sonny Perdue endorsed is quickly becoming something of a spethe President’s move. “Floods, cialty of this Administration: while the droughts, and natural disasters are a secretary claims American agriculture fact of life for farmers, ranchers, and will be ready for any climate-altered foresters,” ironically noted the secrefuture because of “the assistance of the tary as if acknowledging the foodscientists and experts at USDA,” growing reality climate scientists say President Trump’s 2018 federal budget is ahead of us if we take the White proposal cuts USDA’s Agricultural House’s fossil-fueled course.

Research Service funding by roughly But, hey, added Perdue, farmers and 32 percent. If adopted, that $360 milranchers “have persevered in the past lion slice (out of its $1.1 billion budget) means USDA would have to close 17 of and they will adapt in the future — its 90 or so research centers. with the assistance of the scientists and experts at USDA.” Which centers would close? No one can say, but if the Boss believes climate There are two gaping holes in change isn’t a serious threat, few scienPerdue’s hopeful net. First, not all tists serious about their careers at farmers and ranchers “persevered” in USDA will do climate change research. previous climate calamities. In fact, many farm families and rural commu- See GUEBERT, pg. 4

This may be your last issue of The Land!

What about Paris?

THE LAND, JUNE 16 , 2017

4

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GUEBERT, from pg. 3 Not researching climate change, just like jumping out of the Paris climate accord, does not mean it won’t impact farmers and ranchers.

In its 2015 report titled, “Heat in the Heartland: Climate Change and the Economic Risk in the Midwest,” an all-star group of political, business, and academic leaders warned, “Without action, climate change will lock in extreme temperature increases across the Midwest” where, they noted, 65 percent of all corn and soybeans are grown, one-third of U.S. manufacturing is located, and where one in five Americans live.

And it’s going to happen in a hurry. “Over the next 5 to 25 years, without significant adaptation by farmers, some counties in Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana will likely see average commodity crop losses up to 18 to 24 percent due to extreme heat each year,” the report relates.

The point is as simple as it is apparent. Climate change is happening and will continue to happen.

Ignoring it, by withdrawing from political and scientific efforts to mitigate and maybe manage it, goes against what farmers and ranchers instinctively do best everyday — solve problems, not make ’em worse.

The Farm and Food File is published weekly through the United States and Canada. Past columns, events and contact information are posted at www.farmandfoodfile.com. v

OPINION

Calendar of Events

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

Visit www.TheLandOnline.com to view our complete calendar & enter your own events, or send an e-mail with your event’s details to editor@thelandonline.com.

1st Farm Credit Services, ACA, AgStar Financial Services, ACA, and Badgerland Financial, ACA are equal opportunity employers, lenders and providers. Compeer Financial, ACA will begin operating on July 1, 2017, assuming the Farm Credit Administration grants final approval for the merger. © 2017

June 19 — CommonGround Minnesota Workshop — Minneapolis — If you are a woman in agriculture and want to become involved in consumer outreach activities, learn more about the CommonGround program — Visit www.mncorn.org/event/ or call Meghan Doyle at mdoyle@mncorn.org or (952) 460-3611 June 20 — Agronomy Field Tour — Waseca, Minn. — U of M Southern Research and Outreach Center highlights weed control, nutrient management, production issues and economic outlook — Contact Deanna Nelson at nelso191@umn.edu or (507) 835-3620 or visit https://sroc.cfans.umn.edu/ June 22 — Summer Field Day — Kanawha, Iowa — ISU Northern Research and Demonstration Farm highlights corn and soybean crop management, insecticide resistance, sudden death syndrome — Contact Angie Rieck-Hinz at amrieck@ iastate.edu or (515) 231-2830

Easy wild game recipe is ‘winner, winner, pheasant dinner’

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C & C STEEL ROOFING

make thick paste.

Stuff each steak with two tablespoons chili stuffing. Spray outside of steak with olive oil spray and grill to medium rare. n Martini Marmalade Marinade. Say that fast 10 times. While the name is a bit of a tongue twister, this marinade is perfect on any upland game bird (that includes pheasant, grouse and quail.)

Martini Marmalade Marinade 1-1/2 cups olive oil 1 cup gin 1/2 cup orange marmalade 1/4 cup white vermouth 2 cloves garlic 1 tsp. dry basil 1 tsp. dry tarragon 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp. salt Place all ingredients in blender. Blend for one minute on low speed. This marinade is to be used with upland game birds.

Place game in glass bowl. Cover with marinade. Let meat marinate for three days (no more, no less.) Remove meat, leaving marinade on game and grill game over medium heat. Always grill bone side down first. n These are just a sampling of the diverse, delicious and dang interesting recipes found in the book.

Grab a copy of this cookbook, get hunting and get cooking.

This cookbook is available on Amazon.com.

If your community group or church organization has printed a cookbook and would like to have it reviewed, send us a copy to The Land, P.O. Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56002.

Please specify if you wish to have the cookbook returned, and include information on how readers may obtain a copy of the cookbook.

Submission does not guarantee a review. v

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

There are some people in this world Endless Easy Boneless Breast of Pheasant that live for the thrill of the hunt. They 4 boneless pheasant breasts seem to eat, sleep and breathe hunting 6 eggs and fishing. I am not one of those people.

3/4 cup Parmesan cheese For almost 15 years however, I’ve been 2 T. fresh lemon juice married to a hunter gatherer. We have a 1 cup seasoned flour (add salt and pepper) freezer full of assorted meats and a few 1/4 cup clarified butter animal wall mounts to show for it.

8 lemon slices, 1/4-inch thick When I was asked if I would write this Remove skin from boneless pheasant breasts. In COOKING column for The Land, I instantly said a bowl, combine eggs and Parmesan cheese and WITH KRISTIN yes. I look forward to expanding my whip smooth with wire whisk. The resulting batter

By Kristin Kveno small, lackluster cooking repertoire. For should have a medium consistency. my first review I wanted to go outside Place seasoned flour in a pie plate. Heat butter in a my comfort zone and review a cookbook for all those large, heavy sauté pan. One at a time, dredge pheasant breasts who love wild game (or simply love those who love in flour, then dip in Parmesan/egg mixture, coating well and dipwild game). ping back into flour.

John Schumacher’s “Wild Game Cooking Made Place breasts in sauté pan. Brown lightly, turn each breast and Easy” was the perfect choice. It has in the title my splash with lemon juice. Place breasts in a covered casserole favorite word when it comes to cooking — “easy.” and bake in oven at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. Remove and The wild game part was going to be a challenge as serve each with two lemon slices as garnish. wild caught salmon purchased at the local grocery n store is about as interesting as I like my protein.

How many times have you needed a good moose However, our freezer full of wild game meats either recipe and you just couldn’t find one? Well, you’re in needs to be eaten or thrown I away. (I usually go luck!

Here’s a delicious recipe that has a bit of a with the latter.) bite, and would be a perfect on the grill on these This cookbook is a great for us newbies in the wild beautiful summer nights. game world. Schumacher’s creative pairings along Moose Steaks with Green Chili Pockets with his use of fresh ingredients make the recipes not overwhelming. You may recognize Schumacher’s 4 moose steaks (8-10 ounces each) Rub: name as he was the former owner and chef of 1 T. black pepper Schumacher’s Hotel in New Prague, Minn.

1 T. Cajun seasoning There’s a segment in the cookbook entitled, 1/2 tsp. garlic powder “Supporting Cast,” which features tasty side dishes, 2 tsp. olive oil including Knedliky (Czech Potato Dumplings); Stuffing: Pickled Grapes with Ginger; and this delicious2 T. olive oil sounding recipe, Schumacher Hotel Sweet Roll 1 cup diced onion Stuffing. While the side dishes are impressive, the 1 cup canned green chilies real star of this cookbook is the meat. And boy, 1 tsp. dry oregano there’s a lot of different meat recipes — everything 1 tsp. dry basil from pheasant to rabbit to squirrel to venison and 3/4 cup bread crumbs moose. Since we have quite a bit of pheasant still Remove all excess fat and silver skin from steaks. Cut a deep left in the freezer from my husband’s western North Dakota hunting adventure from last year, I found a horizontal pocket in each steak. Leave a half-inch on the sides recipe I was optimistic that at least 50 to 75 percent and end. Combine black pepper, Cajun seasoning and garlic powder. Rub on steaks and place steaks in plastic bag with two of my family would enjoy. tsp. olive oil overnight.

That kind of agreement on a meal would be conHeat two teaspoons olive oil in skillet. Add onion and sauté sidered success in my book. I have four children: until tender. Add green chilies and spices and simmer for five three girls whose tastes range from eating herring minutes over low heat. Add bread crumbs and combine well to as a snack to being a strict vegetarian (if being a vegetarian means eating bacon, hamburgers and pepperoni). I have one son who loves any lake fish that my husband fries up. And, at the ripe old age of 5, he has finished a whole pizza by himself. n Keeping with the title of the book, I decided to make • 6 Year • Lowest Rates Endless Easy Boneless Breast of Pheasant. The simple Warranty • Quality ingredients caught my eye and the straightforward • Free Workmanship instructions shouted “pick me.” Out of the six Kvenos Estimates • Insured in my family, all but two thought this dish was “winner, winner pheasant dinner.” So now I can add CALL Clint 507-528-2243 Specializing in applying ribbed steel to barns, pheasant chef to my list of abilities. If you have pheasgarages and outbuildings. ants taking up space in the freezer, try this meal.

5

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

6

Like it or not, wishing will take you only so far in life “Did you throw a quarter in our toilet?” trip. And while she shocked herself by all I asked Mike. One never quite knows. He the rides she could still stomach, the answered with an eye roll. adult dude buckled behind her shared his summer of 2017 goal. He planned on Then it was the grandkids. With those going on this particular thrill ride 10,000 two one really never knows. They are times this season. With a fast pass and always up to something that only makes his phone in hand to track his progress, sense inside the heads of 5 and 7-yearthe guy was determined. And as she did old boys. This shenanigan may have been the math on what it would take to originated with a wishing well.

THE BACK PORCH accomplish such a feat, she roughly figIt happened the last time we took the ured it would take him 83 sunny days.

By Lenae Bulthuis boys out for breakfast. As they waited for Her final thought? Get a job. their adult-sized pancakes and refills of Why do we do what we do? What’s the ultimate apple juice, they twirled pennies on top of the table goal and desires of our hearts? And what is our puruntil they dropped under the table. Pennies they suit telling the next generation that have hopes of would later toss into the restaurant’s wishing well. their own?

And though we explained that it was just for fun, there isn’t a one of us who doesn’t have a thing or Ann Voskamp penned, “We only get one life here. two we wish for in life.

It’s a crazy, beautiful, liberating thing to realize: It’s the story of graduates, parents, gardeners and We’re not here to help ourselves to more — we’re here to help others to real life. We’re here to live beyond farmers dropping tiny seeds into the ground each our base fears because our lives are based in Christ.” spring. We have hope for the future. And it’s bigger than wishful thinking. It takes intentionality, work, perseverance, and if you believe in God, relentless prayer. There is expectation that what is done well today will make a difference tomorrow.

LAND MINDS, from pg. 2 But I suppose the greater question isn’t how you Machinery Hill might not be as expanget there or how long it takes to arrive, but what’s sive as it once was, but the equipment your end goal? Here’s the thing. We can wear ouris still mighty impressive. And young children still selves ragged running after things that don’t matget a kick out of sitting behind the wheel of a big ter. We can pour ourselves out into broken wells rig. Speaking of children, they complete the that cannot hold water. soundtrack of the county fair midway with screams bordering on terror and delight.

On opening day at a local amusement park, a friend of mine was a chaperone on the senior class Don’t be surprised if you run across someone at the fair you haven’t seen in a while — even if it isn’t your local county fair. More years than not, a surprise encounter has proven it is indeed a small

There are so many things we can be in. We can be in debt, in a funk, or in mud up to our axles. And we want out! But what a radical difference it makes to today’s goals, and ultimately this life and the next, to be in Christ.

To be in Christ is not a free pass to life without trials or access to a magic genie that provides your every penny wish. It’s infinitely and eternally better. In Him is real life. In Him is peace beyond understanding, and grace upon grace no matter the size of the mountain or depth of the pit. In Him hope is anchored and the things that really matter are found.

Like author Randy Alcorn writes, “Life on earth is a dot. Life in Heaven is an unending line extending from that dot. If we’re wise, we’ll live for the line.”

Lenae Bulthuis muses about faith, family, and farming from her back porch on her Minnesota grain and livestock farm. She can be reached at lenaesbulthuis@gmail.com or @LenaeBulthuis. v

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County fairs are still fun for the family

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world. Your neighbor might be working the church taco stand. You might find out the wild child in your Sunday school class has a flair for art.

And the biggest surprise: it’s free! In an era of tightening budgets and cutbacks, volunteers still fill county fair boards and provide a variety of entertainment in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.

Talent shows, tractor pulls, animals, music … and nostalgia … are all available a short drive from your front door.

This issue of The Land features a listing of county fairs in Minnesota and Iowa. By attending these fairs, you will be keeping alive a tradition and building memories for future generations. Pack the kids up in the Chevy and check them out.

Paul Malchow is the managing editor of The Land.

He may be reached at editor@TheLandOnline.com.v

OPINION

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Farm Gadget Show returns to 2017 Clay County Fair on the farm. Photo exhibits will also be accepted if the gadget cannot physically be brought to the Fair, but will be used for exhibit purposes only, and will not be eligible for cash prizes.

Farm Gadget Show exhibits are judged on workmanship, design, usefulness, appearance, safety and creative use of resources. The Fair offers $100 for first place in each category, $50 for second place and $25 for third place.

“We have categories for adult and youth individuals, along with groups of adults and groups of youth,” said

Schwaller. “Any farm inventions or machine changes/improvements you bring are fair game as long as they follow the guidelines on the Fair’s website.”

Exhibitors don›t have to be farmers, but the exhibit does need to be farmrelated. Exhibits do not have to look like they came from the showroom floor, either, Schwaller said.

“Exhibits don’t have to be something you made (or make) from scratch, but could be something you have improved on to make it work for the job you need done on the farm,” said said Schwaller.

This year’s show will also showcase old-time farm gadgets as the Fair celebrates its Centennial. Anyone with an old/antique exhibit they would like to bring in for display purposes only is welcome to do so. Those exhibits will be protected in glass cases. Fairgoers will have a chance to guess what the “gadgets” are to win prizes.

Visit www.claycountyfair.com for an exhibitor handbook and learn more about the show’s guidelines and rules.

This article was submitted by the Clay County Fair. v

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2011 InternatIonal INTERNATIONAL 8600 2009 8600 TRANSTAR serIes DAY CAB TRUCK transtar Day Cab

isM cummins engine - 410 hp, 10 speed Maxxforce MF13 Series Engine UltrashiftFuller transmission, air Transride sus410HP, 10 Speed pension, Jake Brake, a/c, 171” WB, 3.73 mission, Jake Brake, Air Ride Gear ratio, Brakes - 75%, New stainless Suspension, 3.42 Gear Ratio, 171” steel 1/2 fenders on rear drive axle, WB, Plastic 1 /2 Fenders, Outside outside aluminum rims, 295/75r22.5 Aluminum Rims, 295/75R22.5 Tires, tires - steer tires 90% / New recap tires on drive axle,90% 477,000 Miles,Tires Good 80%, conSteer Tires / Drive dition, dot inspected.

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1979 INTERNATIONAL 2004 InternatIonalF1954 8600 FARM serIes DayTRUCK Cab truCk Tandem Axle Twin Screw, DT isM cummins engine - 385 hp, 10 speed 466 Diesel Engine, 10 Speed transmission, air ride suspension, a/c, Transmission, Air Brakes, Air Up 156” WB, 3.90 Gear ratio, outside alu& Down Pusher Axle, 22 Ft.- steer Steel minum rims, 295/75r22.5 tires Crysteel Box/ Steel tires 90%, drive tires - Floor, 4 New Roll recaps Tarp, 3 Pc. End gate,Miles, Crysteel & 4 tires - 60%, 502,000 dot inStingray spected. 3 Stage Hoist, Spoke Wheels, 315/80R22.5 Steer Tires -New, 11 R22.5 Drive Tires - 75%, 320,000 Actual Miles.

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We have on hand, hydraulic hose and fittings for your replacement needs. We have qualified welders of aluminum, steel and stainless steel. We do axle alignments. We do brake and ABS work. We have installed robotic systems. We also install TRAM Safety systems. We have a variety of brands of tires such as Firestone, Kelly, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Kumho and more.

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BROSKOFF BROSKOFF STRUCTURES STRUCTURES 507-256-7501 507-256-7501 • GENEVA, • GENEVA, MN MN

Olsen Truck Service Center has been repairing grain trailers, livestock trailers, Dry Van and Reefer trailers for some time. We have experienced welders and technicians to continue our trailer repair to the feed trailer and feed body industry. We have installed third axles on feed trailers for use in the Minnesota road restriction season that are easily removed after road restrictions go off.

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Talk to Rich, Jay or Jeff to set up an appointment or just stop in to see our facility. The coffee is always on.

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THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

SPENCER, Iowa — Exhibitors everywhere are invited to be part of this year’s Farm Gadget Show at the 2017 Clay County Fair.

Karen Schwaller, show superintendent, said farmers tend to be problem solvers. “If farmers can’t find what they need or want, they often go back to their farm shops to make it,” she said.

Exhibits can be something as small as a hand-held object, to something that needs to be hauled onto the fairgrounds on a trailer. Whatever the “gadget,” it needs to be something that can be used

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Selecting mini accessories makes fairy gardening fun Fairy gardens are still ings, fences, other miniature popular. I have wanted to accessories and (of course) create one for many years the fairies. The large fairy and now we have added one house was the focal point. to our yard. Larry built a Green and white glass raised garden that is 3-feet paths were placed in curves by 4-feet wide and just over around the fairies’ yard. A 3-feet tall. It was made small rusty bridge covers from leftover composite the stream that was made IN THE GARDEN deck material and has a from crinkled blue plastic raised inside bottom so only with the edges anchored

By Sharon Quale about two feet of potting with small pebbles. soil is needed. He lined the Gazing balls made from marbles soil bed with landscape fabric to keep glued to golf tees add some whimsy. water from running out of the cracks Street lights were created from white in the siding. marbles glued to an acorn top and Because it is a large and heavy attached to a wire. A tiny birdbath has structure and not moveable once it two robins enjoying a refreshing was filled with potting soil, selecting drink. the perfect place to put it was a big The green plants include ageratum, decision. It now graces an area near a alyssum, brass buttons, creeping small garden pool and is semi shaded thyme, some moss from our woods, a by a large weeping tamarack tree. few small cacti and two miniature The fun part was adding the buildconifers. The small conifers are kept in

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

8

in scale and add to the mystical feel of the garden.

Having morning coffee at the new fairy garden has now become routine.

It’s a great way to begin the day checking on the tiny garden and the little fairies. I always fill the little birdbath with a few teaspoons of water daily. Usually something is in a different place than the day before. It could be the wind. It could be an animal or it could be …

Photos by Sharon Quale

There are a lot of tales about fairies and they usually have one thing in common. Whenever you meet one, you their original pots and will be taken get three wishes. This makes them into the house this fall to overwinter. symbols of luck and happiness.

A key to a successful fairy garden is Sometimes the most pleasant thing a person can do is gaze upon a miniaselecting accessories and plants that have a harmonious size relationship to ture fairy garden where mystical things abound and the imagination each other. Using houses with doors can soar. the fairies could get into as well as benches they could really sit on gives Sharon Quale is a master gardener the little garden a pleasing sense of from central Minnesota. She may be proportion. The blossoms and leaves reached at (218) 738-6060 or on the plant material should be small squale101@yahoo.com. v

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GreenSeam: Ask The Expert agriculturally relevant, responsive

Bridget Norland Greater Mankato Growth, Director of Marketing & Communications

and diverse.

I

n an “Ask the Expert” story submitted to GreenSeam, Don Donayre of Bolton & Menk Inc. explains how mitigation of wetlands can be used to make a profit through the restoration of wetlands on marginal land.

"GreenSeam is the premier agriculture epicenter of the United States, just as Silicon Valley is the epicenter of technology or Wall Street is for financial solutions. If you are a business or individual that finds value in being connected to agribusiness, then GreenSeam is where you need to be."

- Sam Ziegler Director of GreenSeam

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

Mitigation banking is the process of restoring, preserving or creating wetland, stream, or habitat creation, with economic benefits available to those who participate.

Within the GreenSeam there are banking systems at the state and federal level. These systems were introduced to offset or compensate for the impacts of pollution and loss of ecosystems on the environment. Many environmental policies may be difficult or costly to implement, yet mitigation banking can serve as another way landowners can make a profit.

Dan says that the Wetland banking system allow landowners to restore land to pre-settlement condition, and in return receive wetland credits which can be sold to public and private entities. The credits are required by these entities through the Clean Water Dan Donayre Act (CWA) and Wetland Conservation Act (WCA). A successful wetland restoration can easily become a profitable venture. The price of wetland credits between $30,000 and $40,000 per acre in southern Minnesota, the option of restoring marginal land to pre-settlement wetlands may be a great choice for income stability.

Designing a Wetland Restoration requires a combination of historical reviews, watershed planning, hydrologic analysis, engineering and botany. The engineering behind wetland restoration is heavily reliant on detailed observations, testing and research. For example, knowing the immediate need of watershed, and the history of the site itself is vital to restoring the

hydrology of the land. Planting is also essential for restoring the land, being mindful of the different species best suitable.

Wetland Restorations require permit from state and federal levels which can take two or more years. There are three phases in the permit process.

The first step is the Draft Prospectus document.

If approved, a Prospectus is developed as the second step. The third phase is the Draft Instrument, which includes all the same items as the Prospectus, addressing any comments from the agencies, as well as: Prospectus agency comments, Design specifics, Hydrologic analysis and hydraulic analysis, Draft Mitigation Banking Instrument. This is the final phase for the WCA approval. The CWA approval requires one additional step, the Final Mitigation Banking Instrument.

This is the legal agreement between the landowner and the U.S. Government that summarizes the Draft Instrument. Once all permitting requirements have been achieved, the landowner can begin the construction process and begin receiving credits.

Credits are released after meeting series of benchmarks reached through the establishment of wetland hydrology and a native plant community.

Examples include depth of water table, percent of native species, percent of invasive species and aerial coverage. These benchmarks are measured by performing several site visits during the growing season. At the end of each growing season, an annual monitoring report is submitted to the agencies detailing the findings of the site visits, requesting the release of credits if any of the benchmarks have been met. This is Monitoring phase is the most important. One must track the progress of vegetation and hydrology. No matter how good the design or site selection, it is here that the restoration either succeeds or fails.

Read the full story on greenseam.org.

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

How to Restore Wetlands on Marginal Land for Credit

Ben Broze GreenSeam, Marketing Intern

Agriculture can be found everywhere…in our schools, offices, retail stores, vehicles, hospitals and our homes. We certainly are not experts in all those areas or industries but we know folks who are. This is why we bring you our “Ask The Expert” story series. You can find many technically written stories on our website at greenseam.org from area experts about numerous topics, directly and indirectly tied to ag and agribusiness. Help share the depth, scope and diversity of agrelated business across southern Minnesota and northern Iowa by sharing your expert story at greenseam.org.

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

GreenSeam is not simply a place, it’s also a state of mind and being. We have a real and visceral connection to the land we stand on. We are connected to all the people and enterprises that support, supply and stand with us. And we have a heritage that links us with the hardworking past generations whose shoulders we stand upon.

GreenSeam innovation is forwardthinking and historical. Long before there was any concept of a place called “The GreenSeam,” people of this area were innovating. Advances in farming techniques, developments in production, equipment and technological breakthroughs all had origins in the minds of those inhabiting this GreenSeam. A continuum of innovation.

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<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

10

Solar power proves bright spot for controlling costs

By PAUL MALCHOW The Land Managing Editor COKATO, Minn.

— “You’re fixing your costs for the next 25 years. That’s huge.”

In a nutshell, that statement by Dennis Dennis Terning Terning tells why solar energy systems are becoming as much of the rural landscape as the silo and grain bin. Dennis and his son Dean are owners of Terning Seeds and TNT Farms in Cokato, Minn. In 2014 the Ternings installed a 105.6 kilowatt solar-driven system generating approximately 180,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually.

Though warm and engaging, Dennis seems like a no-nonsense kind of fellow who isn’t apt to jump on a trend for trend’s sake. The Terning family farm is 106 years old. “From a financial standpoint, it made sense to do it,” Dennis said. “That’s part of it, but we thought it would be a good idea to be going green with our consumption.”

The Ternings farm about 2,200 acres in corn, soybeans and small grain. But it was the 2,100 acres of irrigated seed

corn which put a big demand on the The Terning system consists of 16 Ternings’ power bill. individual piers with a tracking system. The piers are augured into “There’s three things you need to the ground, corkscrew-like fashion, be successful in the seed business,” eight-feet deep. Each pier holds Dennis explained. “Irrigated fields, twenty-four 275 watt solar panels. single-pass reversing dryers and a The panels contain paper-thin siliclimate-control warehouse.” con wafers. Light creates molecular Dennis said the operation usually movement within the wafers and harvests the seed corn at 35 perthat movement creates energy. cent moisture and it must be dried Inverters convert the AC current to to 12 percent. However, convenusable DC current. tional dryers dry the grain from the Ternings’ system is interconnectbottom up, which can create uneven ed with Xcel Energy’s power grid by moisture levels. The reversing dryuse of a bidirectional meter. Dennis Photo submitted ers dry from top and bottom – prosaid 10 months out of the year, The Ternings’ solar energy system is the largest viding a more even moisture content level. The corn seed is stored at privately-owned system of its kind in Minnesota. Ternings’ solar panels will be supplying electricity to other Xcel no more than 60 degrees Fahrenheit. them to Blue Horizon Energy of Energy customers in the area when All of this consumes power. Records Plymouth, Minn. “The cost of panels show in the month of September alone, fell 50 percent since 2008,” said Blue their system is producing more electricity than they need themselves. the Ternings used Horizon representative Barry 100,000 kW of power.

Thompson, who worked with the Ternings on their installation.

The Ternings first explored solar energy “We couldn’t have done it without options about five government involvement,” Dennis said. years ago, but found “We received a tax credit of 30 percent, it was not financially plus we qualified for a 25 percent feasible. But a numUSDA REAP Grant. And we could ber of developments Barry depreciate 85 percent of the total cost.” since that time led Thompson The state helped out on the project as well. No state sales tax was charged on Personal Service on New & Existing the equipment and the panel system INSULATE will not cause a jump in the Ternings’ Cattle Barns, Shops & Homes property tax bill.

Photo by Paul Malchow “We looked at how much energy the Each tracker has a device which moniTernings used each month over a tors wind speed. If winds reach 30 mph, 12-month period,” said Thompson. “We the panels will flatten to a horizontal worked with Xcel Energy (the Ternings’ position to prevent wind damage. power provider) and they were very At that time, the state law During those times, the bidirectional • Polyurethane Spray Foam Insulation cooperative. was a 40kW maximum, so we had to meter will actually run in reverse and work with that.” The Ternings’ 180,000 their electric bill will be credited and • Fiberglass Blowing Insulation kWh system is the largest privately- applied to future electricity charges.

• We can do hydro doors, bifold doors • Bin foundations owned solar system of its kind in Rather than using conventional Minnesota.

• Spray ceilings on metal roofs to insulate and prevent rust See SOLAR POWER, pg. 11

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System operations are continually monitored by computer kW to be exact,” smiled Kimball. “Actually, that was a conservative estimate on the output. We’re running 15-20 percent ahead of what they projected.”

Rose raises turkeys from hatch to 20 weeks. He estimates he has 13,500 birds in a barn — one barn is for starters and two are for finishing. The electricity generated by the solar system powers six large exhaust fans in each barn and 12 circulation fans.

“I was looking for ways to be efficient,” Rose said.

“To create more income and be less expensive. With this system we’re saving money without more work.”

Rose’s system is relatively new. It was up and running on the last week of 2016. “It was the coldest days of the year,” Kimball shook his head. “It was See SOLAR POWER, pg. 12

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

SOLAR POWER, from pg. 10 fixed-angle mounting brackets for the solar panels, the Terning system utilizes dual-axis trackers which follow the sun vertically and horizontally throughout the day using GPS software. No matter where the sun is, dual-axis trackers are able to angle themselves to be in direct contact with the sun. The trackers have a built-in system that monitors wind speed.

In the event of a 30 mile-per-hour wind for 15 seconds or more, the system will instantly flatten horizontally, minimizing wind resistance. Trackers also have a snow mode. When activated, the mode moves the solar panels to a vertical position, allowing snow to slide off the panels.

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Todd Rose uses the power generated by his system to operate exhaust and circulation fans in his three turkey barns.

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“Blue Horizon has its own team and does all of the installation,” Thompson said. “A local company did the electrical hookup. If directional boring is needed for a project, we’ll hire that out; but everything else is us.” Dennis said the entire system took about a month to install. The USDA and Public Utilities Commission inspected the system, which was commissioned on Dec. 23, 2014.

The Terning farm was hit with a significant hail storm this spring and the panels survived intact.

“The storm dented every steel roof on the place,” Dennis admitted. “It didn’t affect the panels at all.”

“The panels are made with tempered glass — like a car windshield,” Thompson added. “Now, large hail will damage a car windshield, but we’ve had panels go through 1-inch hail and not get damaged.”

The inverters are warrantied for 10 years. The panels carry a 25-year warranty. “With the sun aging the panels over time, we estimate you’ll lose about a halfpercent of efficiency per year,” said Thompson. “Still at the end of the warranty, they’re still producing about 80 percent of brand new. That’s pretty good.”

“There’s really very little movement (in the system),” said Blue Horizon specialist Hal Kimball.

“About every seven to 10 years you should probably change the hydraulic fluid.”

Kimball oversaw the installation of Todd Rose’s TR Farms’ 58 kW solar system near Morgan, Minn. “58.5

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

NEW PRICE: $32,750

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

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Resources available for renewable energy projects Solar, wind, and biomass are plentiful sources of clean energy in Minnesota, and the Clean Energy Resource Teams offer help to farmers and rural small businesses to get projects done. Through Renewable Energy for Greater Minnesota, CERTs offers custom project assistance and tools to those interested in pursuing renewable energy projects.

CERTs can help you: • Explore projects that could work for your farm or business • Identify potential funding and financing options • Get one-on-one assistance on your project Here are some funding options.

REAP The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) from USDA Rural Development is one funding opportunity for Minnesota farmers and rural businesses to save energy with efficiency work and add renewable energy systems.

Grants can cover up to 25 percent of eligible project costs, and loans can cover up to 75 percent of eligible project costs.

REAP is for all farmers, and for rural small businesses that are located in communities with populations less than 50,000.

As part of the REAP application process you’ll need to get an energy audit. Talk to your electric

www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org Learn more about CERTs and Renewable Energy for Greater Minnesota online. You will find in-depth details on funding, project examples, videos, links to companion loans, sample grant applications and more. utility about whether or not they provide audits. If you haven’t gotten one before, you can watch a video to learn more on the CERTs website.

CERTs has created two REAP sample applications using the short form for projects of $80,000 or less for you to view online.

PACE Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) is a new way to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades to the buildings of commercial property owners.

PACE could be a companion to REAP funding in Minnesota.

Energy-saving measures pursued by the owners receive project financing and are repaid as a separate item on their property tax assessment for a set period. PACE eliminates the burden of upfront costs by providing low-cost, long-term financing.

This article was compiled from the Clean Energy Resource Teams website at www.cleanenergy resourceteams.org. v

Fritz Ebinger is CERTs rural energy development program manager. He works on energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives with farmers.

“I will come out and do a site assessment.

I work through the application process with them,” said Ebinger.

He takes a hard look at whether renewable Fritz Ebinger energy is right for the site.

When it comes to Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grants, most grants are issued in the $20,000 and under category, explained Ebinger. The success rate for REAP grants is 30 percent in Minnesota, he added.

Another option for energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy projects is the new Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, noted Ebinger.

The loan is a property tax lien against your land and buildings.

Over a 20-year time frame, you pay off the loan as a special assessment on your property tax bill.

One requirement is that you must identify significant energy efficiencies and savings.

“They pay a slightly higher property tax, but overall the operation is more profitable,” said Ebinger.

If you are considering a renewable energy project on your farm, contact Fritz Ebinger at ebing007@umn.edu. He will be answering e-mails periodically.

— Marie Wood, The Land Associate Editor

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“Where Farm and Family Meet”

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Double B Manufacturing 6666 58th Avenue SE • Willmar, MN 56201 • Website: www.doublebrepair.com • Email: jpeterz28@gmail.com

Phone: (320) 382-6623

benefit from snow cover as the bottom of the panels will pick up light brutal! But it was a good, clean job.” reflected off the ground.

The ground needed to be thawed to Kimball said Rose can expand the anchor the piers. system if the need arises. “It’s basi“Blue Horizon made it pretty simcally modular,” he said. “It’s common ple,” Rose said. “They took care of for customers to add trackers. We’ve everything. They also monitor the had customers come back to us five entire system. Blue Horizon knows times.”

Hal Kimball Todd Rose before I do if anything is amiss.”

“If the goal of the customer is to The Rose system performs much the same as the eliminate bills, we can scale the project to anyone’s Ternings’; just on a smaller scale. The panels use a needs,” said Kimball. “We’ve done many projects tracking system to follow the sun. They were spaced throughout the Midwest.” Blue Horizon has done 60-feet apart so one tracker would not shade the over 200 projects in Minnesota alone. panels of another. Kimball said while winter days According to Blue Horizon Energy’s website (www. are shorter and the panels see less sun, Rose will bluehorizonenergy.com), in the short time of its FENC operation, the Rose system has produced enough M E BUI O L D ERS power to offset the production of about 128,140 ST pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to High U Tensil C e Fen taking 13 typical passenger cars off the road for one Speed cing rite E nergiz year. The system’s energy production to date is sufers Water ing Sy s ficient to power 326 average computers for one year, t e m FENC s Grazin E IN Y g Sup US or to power one average television for 294,702 hours p O lies UR FU TURE ET (34 years) non-stop.

L ” “ “I felt it was a responsible thing to do – save energy 507-956-2657 Daniel & Terese Hall in an appropriate way,” Rose smiled and winked, Jeremy • Andy • Tony • Mike SOUTHWEST MINNESOTA 40133 - 620 Ave. “less coal burning.” v th

BUTTERFIELD, MN 56120

June heat wave has farmers looking for rain

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Corey Hanson, Gary, June 7

At Corey Hanson’s farm, he got his soybeans in on May 26. On Memorial Day, May 29, they moved the beef cows and calves to the pasture across the road from the barn.

“They always like to get into the pasture,” said Hanson.

He has sprayed his wheat with herbicide and a little fungicide. He noted unevenness in emergence, Corey Hanson mostly due to wet spots, in this year’s wheat.

“It’s gonna be a good wheat crop, but not the great wheat crop that we’ve had the last two years,” said Hanson.

Corn is doing well. He sprayed the corn with a pre-emerge herbicide right after he planted and he has sidedressed with anhydrous.

Next he will start spraying the beans for weeds.

He has started to cut hay, but hasn’t made bales yet. He will be making hay for the next couple weeks. Hanson is very busy.

“It’s a never-ending battle of spraying beans, fencing, grain hauling — that’s gotta get done too,” said Hanson.

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Larry Konsterlie, Pennock, June 5

Nate Hultgren was in the tractor planting the last of the Hultgren Farms’ organic edible kidney beans on June 8. They grow about 1,000 acres of dark red kidney beans. On June 13, they will get one last field of sweet corn in for Lakeside Foods in Brooten.

They finished planting soybeans on June 3. They have been going solid planting soybeans and kidney beans since June 1 when fields dried out.

“When we got the conditions, we were out planting until the middle of the night, every night,” said Hultgren.

Nate Hultgren

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Mark Ditlevson, Blooming Prairie, June 9

On June 9, Mark Ditlevson was getting ready to do a presentation on small grains for Practical Farmers of Iowa.

His farm has roughly 950 acres divided in thirds between corn, soybeans and small grains.

Mark Ditlevson “We’re going to make a nitrogen pass on our spring wheat,” said Ditlevson, adding it would be the last of the season.

Over the weekend, he would do the last treatment of fungicide on the winter wheat.

As for corn and beans, he hasn’t treated them yet.

“We are waiting to see if anything else germinates as far as weeds,” said Ditlevson.

The week of June 12, he plans to interseed cover crops into his corn.

As for rain, Ditlevson reported that he got lucky as they received 1.5 inches of rain on June 3, which really helped.

“With the rain and heat, it’s looking very well. We are very good right now,” said Ditlevson.

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Bob Roelofs, Garden City, June 9

On his family soybean, corn and hog farm, Bob Roelofs replanted 10 acres of corn due to emergence issues.

The last full week of May brought rain and cold weather.

“It just sat in the ground and rotted,” Bob Roelofs said Roelofs.

Otherwise the rest of the corn fields look really good, reported Roelofs. He sprayed about 200 acres with post-emerge herbicide and will do the rest the week of June 12.

“Beans are excellent. They look really good,” he said.

On June 9, Roelofs was headed to St. Clair to a 30-acre farm they just began renting. He wants to check on the soybeans they planted the first week of June.

With a brutally hot and humid forecast in store for the weekend, Roelofs will be looking after the hogs.

“We’re going to fight the heat with the hogs and try to keep them cool,” said Roelofs.

The forecast also calls for a possibility of rain on June 11.

“We could use a shot of rain pretty bad right now,” he said.

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ISX Cummins, 450 HP, 10 spd, 590,000 miles, 3:73 ratio, LP 22.5 tires, 176” WB, Very clean,

460HP, 18 spd, 1,180,838 miles, 224” WB, new steers and drives, new brakes and drums,

Now he can get back to a regular routine.

Sugarbeets, soybeans and kidney beans all got in later than he’d like. For instance, sugarbeets were planted two weeks behind normal.

“In the last week, they really shot up with the heat,” said Hultgren. “What’s out there right now looks really nice.”

Their corn is looking healthy. They have been spraying the corn with herbicides.

“Our corn came up really well and with the heat it’s going like crazy,” he said.

They chopped the first hay crop for Meadow Star Dairy.

The next step will be seeding in another week or so. They also are putting up some hay, which will be round baled, for their own beef cattle.

“Now we’re on the other end of the spectrum wanting a little bit of rain,” said Hultgren.

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“We did get all the field work done. The seeds are all planted in the ground,” said Larry Konsterlie.

On this family corn and soybean farm, he got the last of his beans in on Larry Konsterlie June 4.

While none of his soybeans are up yet, his corn plants are looking a lot better and greener since the cold and wet weather came to an end.

Now he has some alfalfa hay and grass hay that he will be cutting and baling. Next up is in-season nitrogen application of 28 percent that he will inject between the rows. The co-op does his spraying.

“I still have to scout fields and make decisions that way. I have a plan in place, but some things get changed,” he said.

The dry and sunny forecast isn’t bad, but …

“In all honesty, I wouldn’t mind a little bit of rain,” said Konsterlie.

Nate Hultgren, Raymond, June 8

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

Compiled by The Land Associate Editor Marie Wood

13

Local Corn and Soybean Price Index

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

14

Cash Grain Markets

corn/change* soybeans/change*

Dover Edgerton Jackson Janesville Cannon Falls Sleepy Eye

$3.25 +.05 $3.24 +.04 $3.14 +.06 $3.28 -.01 $3.25 +.11 $3.19 +.05

$8.75 +.20 $8.65 +.21 $8.62 +.18 $8.67 +.20 $8.71 +.16 $8.61 +.26

Average: $3.23 $8.67 Year Ago Average: $3.79 $10.77

JUNE ‘16

JULY

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUNE

Grain prices are effective cash close on June 13. The price index chart compares an average of most recently reported local cash prices with the same average for a year ago. *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

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Grain Outlook Record corn volume traded

Livestock Angles Erratic prices to continue

Grain Angles How does your farm compare?

The following marketing analysis is for the week ending June 9.

CORN — This week we finally saw the stimulus we needed to force prices out of our three-month sideways range and its name was weather — hot, dry, windy weather, to be specific. The absence of rain and increase in temperatures were enough for shorts to cover and new length to come into the market. Spillover strength from the wheat markets also provided strong support to corn. Heavy producer sales of old crop corn were offset by the PHYLLIS NYSTROM CHS Hedging Inc. short-covering, but on the conSt. Paul tinuous chart, corn still hit a oneyear high at $3.91.75 per bushel.

The Chicago Board of Trade traded record corn volume on June 7 of just over 1 million contracts. Technicals also turned positive with the move higher, adding to the upward momentum. The picture isn’t totally rosy with export sales disappointing. As of June 9, corn had closed higher for six consecutive sessions.

The June World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates report turned out to be a non-event. If we weren’t trading weather, the reports would likely have put pressure on prices. The U.S. Department of Agriculture didn’t change a thing on both the 201617 and 2017-18 balance sheets. Ending stocks for 2016-17 stayed at 2.295 billion bushels vs. estimates for 2.282 billion bushels. 2017-18 ending stocks of 2.110 billion bushels were slightly above the 2.084 billion trade expectation.

The livestock markets have settled down just slightly in the past few weeks from the erratic and highly volatile trade we have seen lately. At this juncture, it shouldn’t be taken for granted that the volatility and erratic price movements are a thing of the past. We are more than likely to see more of the same price movement as we move through the month of June for both cattle and hog markets.

Lately, the cattle market has been darting up and down in price in both the cash and futures markets. This erratic movement continues to surface as we strugJOE TEALE gle between supply of cattle and Broker the demand for beef. The supply Great Plains Commodity of market-ready cattle has not Afton, Minn. been enough for weeks to satisfy the packer demand as evidenced in the strong cash trade. At the same time, the number of cattle in the feedlots continues to expand, causing fear that the supplies will be more than adequate in the future.

Demand has been questionable during this time period as boxed beef movement has been slowing as the beef cutout increases.

Granted, with Father’s Day and the Fourth of July just around the corner, demand for beef cuts has slightly improved. The question is, if this demand can hold as the beef cutout moves over the $250 level where resistance has proven to be in the past.

Technically, the futures market experienced a downward reversal on June 6, which would indicate the trade is anticipating a change in either supply or demand in the weeks ahead. Through all of this,

If everyone is facing $3.50 corn, aren’t all grain farmers in the same economic position? The short answer is no. Depending on cost of production yields, marketing, and other factors, one producer might be able to squeak by a profit, while their neighbor takes a loss.

Do you know how your operation compares to your competitors?

What areas of your operation are a strength and what areas need improvement? The answers to these questions may lie in benchmarking or peer data. This information allows you to visualize the health of your operation in relaNATHAN tion to your competitors and helps KROMANN you identify potential gaps in per- AgStar Sr. Credit Officer formance where you can improve.

Northfield, Minn.

AgStar just finished the 2016 grain benchmark report. The peer group represents 196 grain clients scattered throughout our territory in Minnesota and Wisconsin. While the peer group is small in comparison to the many grain farms in those states, it does provide some key takeaways.

Yields It’s no surprise that yields were very strong in 2016. Robust yields impact the bottom line and the health of your operation. Based on the peer group’s data, average yield was 205 bushels per acre for corn and 60 for soybeans. This was an average increase of 10 bushels for corn and 5 bushels for soybeans over 2015. These strong yields drove an improvement in working capital, increased earnings, and lower breakeven. Yields in 2016 won the day. Will 2017 have equally strong yields?

See NYSTROM, pg. 15

See TEALE, pg. 15

See KROMANN, pg. 16

Information in the above columns is the writer’s opinion. It is no way guaranteed and should not be interpreted as buy/sell advice. Futures trading always involves a certain degree of risk.

WASDE report had little impact on soybean market month to 114 mmt this month. The trade estimate was just 112.3 mmt. AgroConsult is forecasting Brazil’s production at 115 mmt.

Argentina’s production was raised from 57 mmt last month to 57.8 mmt this month, slightly higher than the 57.3 mmt estimate. It was also a surprise that the USDA didn’t raise China’s soybean import forecast for this year from 89 mmt. Many traders were expecting a 1-2 mmt increase. China’s soybean imports in May were a record at 9.6 mmt, up 25 percent from last year. Their year-to-date soybean imports are up 11.6 percent from last year.

Weekly old crop soybean export sales were poor and the third-lowest of the marketing year at 5.8 million bushels.

Total old crop commitments at 2.15 billion bushels remain higher than the USDA’s export projection of 2.050 billion bushels. Usually, around 55 million bushels of sales are carried over from one crop year to the next. New crop sales of 8.1 million bushels were on the high end of expectations.

However, new crop sales of 114.7 million bushels continue to run well behind last year’s 175.8 million bushels booked by this time of year. New crop sales are the lowest for early June

MARKETING

in nine years.

As of June 4, the U.S. soybean crop was 83 percent planted vs. 79 percent complete on average. The first official soybean rating will be published on the June 12 report. Soybeans were 58 percent emerged vs. 59 percent on average.

Outlook: For the week, July soybeans rallied 20.25 cents to $9.41.5, November beans jumped 23.25 cents higher to $9.48.25, meal was up $4.00 and soyoil rallied 1.28 points. The monthly WASDE was generally bearish to soybeans, but it fell into the shadow of uncertain weather forecasts.

Short-term price direction will be driven by weather forecasts, but the world is awash in soybeans and South American numbers keep getting bigger.

Nystrom’s notes: Contract changes for the week ending June 9: July Minneapolis wheat rocketed to a new contract high on the hot, dry weather across the Dakotas and closed the week out at $6.06.5, up 22.75 cents. Kansas City wheat was up 18.25 cents and Chicago gained 16.25 cents. Crude oil fell $2.02 to $45.64 this week, ULSD dropped 6.25 cents, RBOB lost 7.5 cents and natural gas was 4 cents higher. v

Cash, futures move forward TEALE, from pg. 14

For marketing news between issues ... visit www.TheLandOnline.com

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

expect the volatility to remain a part of the cattle market for some time.

Producers should remain informed of market conditions and protect inventories as needed.

The hog market has been much more mundane than the cattle trade. Hogs have remained steadily moving higher for weeks in both cash and futures as packers continue to seek live inventories. The fact that the pork cutout has been steadily moving higher over the past month has not hurt the sentiment toward a friendly atmosphere toward the market.

With the pork cutouts now over the

$90 cwt. level, the question arises whether the demand will start to decline as it has done in the past. The futures market appears to be slowing its ascent as we approach the end of trading in that particular contract. The gap between cash price and the June futures has narrowed quickly in the past few weeks, but futures still remain a premium. From a historical seasonal perspective, we normally see a high develop in the late spring or early summer. From the producers’ standpoint, one should be cognizant of the seasonal aspect and pay close attention to current market conditions and protect inventories if warranted. v

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World ending stocks were higher than anticipated for this year, but below estimates for next year: 2016-17 at 224.5 million metric tons vs. 223.9 mmt estimated, 2017-18 at 194.3 mmt vs. 196.4 mmt forecasted. Brazil’s corn projection was raised 1 mmt to 97 mmt, higher than the 96.1 mmt estimate. Celeres is carrying Brazil’s corn crop at 100 mmt. AgRural has it at 97.9 mmt. Brazil’s exports were unchanged at 34 mmt.

The USDA’s Argentine 40 mmt forecast was unchanged from last month and nearly dead on with the 39.9 mmt estimate. Argentina’s exports were steady from last month at 27.5 mmt.

After a quick spike lower after the report, prices quickly rebounded to pre-report levels.

Weekly corn exports were a letdown at the second lowest of the marketing year at just 13.7 million bushels and well beneath expectations. New crop sales were 5 million bushels. New crop total commitments stand at only 107.9 million bushels compared to 148.7 million on the books last year at this time.

Weekly ethanol production was 21,000 barrels per day lower than the previous week at 999,000 bpd. Ethanol stocks were 800,000 barrels lower at 22 million barrels. Since the beginning of the marketing year, the annualized ethanol crush is 5.5 billion bushels.

Crush margins were off 2 cents per gallon at 6 cents per gallon. Gasoline demand on a four-week average was down 0.7 percent from last year.

As of June 4, corn was 96 percent planted compared to the average of 97 percent complete. Corn in good/excellent condition was up 3 percent weekon-week at 68 percent good/excellent.

The average condition for that week was 71 percent good/excellent. Corn was 86 percent emerged vs. 87 percent on average.

Outlook: For July corn, first support is the old resistance at $3.79, then $3.75 to $3.70 per bushel. Resistance in the July contract is this week’s high at $3.91.75 per bushel, then $4.00 per bushel. Support in the December corn contract is the old resistance at $3.95.75, but this could be erased quickly if rain materializes in the coming week around the Corn Belt.

Technical resistance is this week’s $4.09 high, then the $4.20 area. But

again, it will be highly dependent on what the weather does. Don’t be narrow sighted, take a look at December 2018 pricing opportunities also. For the week, July corn and December corn were each 15 cents higher at $3.87.75 and $4.06 respectively. It’s all dependent on weather, so plan accordingly. If funds continue to cover short positions, any rally could quickly get overdone. Reward the market if you still have corn to sell as Mother Nature can be fickle and meteorologists aren’t perfect.

SOYBEANS — On a percentage basis, soybeans have not rallied as much as corn, but prices were higher all the same. The market couldn’t rally on wet weather, so we’ll do it on hot, dry weather. The same reasoning behind the corn upswing affected soybeans. Technically, soybeans confirmed their key reversal higher from June 2 and staged six consecutive higher closes since then. But as in corn, there were some negatives slowing the rally. Conab increased its Brazilian corn and soybean production numbers this week by about 1 mmt for each. Their corn number went from 92.8 mmt to 93.8 mmt and beans from 113.0 mmt to 113.9 mmt. Safras and Mercado pegged the Brazilian farmer had sold 58 percent of their 2016-17 soybean crop as of June 5. They usually have 74 percent of the crop sold by that date. Safras is forecasting Brazil’s bean crop at 113.3 mmt.

The June WASDE report on June 9 was bearish on paper, but the trade brushed it aside to focus on weather for now. The only balance sheet change was a 15 million bushel cut in crush on the 2016-17 sheet, which carried over to the 2017-18 total supply line. Old crop ending stocks were up 15 million bushels from last month to 450 million bushels compared to the trade expectation that stocks would fall to 433 million bushels. Ending stocks for the 2017-18 crop year were also up 15 million on the domino effect, coming in at 495 million bushels vs. estimates for 498 million bushels.

World ending stocks for 2016-17 were up 3.2 mmt from last month at 93.2 mmt. Pre-report ideas were for 90.5 mmt. The 2017-18 world ending stocks number were a record 92.2 mmt, up from 88.8 mmt last month and trades ideas for 89.3 mmt. It was a surprise that the USDA jumped Brazil’s soybean production from 111.6 mmt last

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

NYSTROM, from pg. 14

15

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

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THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

16

Grain benchmarking can be valuable operations tool KROMANN, from pg. 14 Working Capital and Earnings Benchmark numbers for working capital averaged $258 per acre, an increase of $14/acre from 2015. Working capital affords you the ability to manage volatility and in today’s environment any improvement is welcomed. Producers should aim for $250 of working capital per acre, and the average producer in 2016 met that goal. The second result of strong yields impacted total earnings, which were up $13 from 2015, at an average of $22/acre. On average, the peer group was profitable in 2016. (Total earnings is your total income after family living cost. It includes depreciation and interest but not principal.)

Break-even The last major result of strong yields is lowered cash flow break-even. Breakeven has two major components: yield and cost. It’s a global view of your operation including all farm and nonfarm expense offset by non-farm and

non-grain income. It includes family living cost, includes principal and interest payments, and excludes deprecation. Understanding and calculating your break-even is the single most important task in managing the financial health of your operation. Once understood, it will affect every decision you make on the farm. Break-even averaged $3.74 for corn in 2016. This is a 30-cent drop from 2015.

The inconsistency in break-even is quite amazing. Break-evens ranged from $1.85 to $6.10. Some of your direct competitors are making strong incomes and some have large losses.

Costs In grain farming, it is vital to know your cost of production. Once you do, you can target certain areas of your operation to reduce your break-even.

Costs in the 2016 grain benchmark remained mostly flat. Total land cost (principal and interest, rent, and tax)

NOSB openings available

The National Organic Standards Board is a Federal Advisory Committee which provides advice and recommendations to the U.S. Department of Agriculture on the implementation of the Organic Foods Production Act. NOSB members are volunteers and come from across the organic community. Each member is appointed by the USDA to a five-year term.

USDA seeks nominations to fill one vacancy for an individual with expertise in areas of environmental protection and resource conservation to serve on the NOSB from January 2018 to January 2023. The USDA is also seeking nominations for a pool of candidates to fill future unexpected vacancies in any of seven position categories, should unexpected vacancies occur. A person appointed to fill an unexpect-

dropped $6/acre to a total of $228/acre. Rent dropped $14/acre while owned cost remained neutral. Machinery cost, which is machinery principal, interest, and lease payments, decreased by $7 to a total of $73/acre. Crop inputs actually increased an average of $4/acre to a total input cost of $349/acre.

So, where do you stand? Do you know

MARKETING

ed vacancy will serve for the remainder of the term of the vacant position.

Committee member duties include: attending committee meetings (travel paid by USDA); participating in bimonthly subcommittee conference calls; reviewing materials and/or recommending changes to the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances; and advising the Secretary of Agriculture on other aspects of the USDA organic regulations.

Written nominations must include a resume, an AD-755 application form, and a cover letter (optional), and must be postmarked on or before Aug. 7.

For more information, visit www.ams. usda.gov.

This article was submitted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. v

your break-even? Do you know how you rank or compare to your direct competitors? Do you know your operational strengths and weaknesses? All of this information helps you position your operation for long-term health, and grain benchmarking could be a tool that can assist you.

For insights from our grain experts, check out agstaredge.com. v

MDA seeks public input on draft Nitrogen Fertilizer Rule ST. PAUL, Minn.— The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is seeking public review and comment of a draft proposal for regulating the use of nitrogen fertilizer in Minnesota. The purpose of the proposed Nitrogen Fertilizer Rule is to minimize the potential for nitrate-nitrogen contamination from fertilizer in the state’s groundwater and drinking water. Nitrate is one of the most common contaminants in Minnesota’s groundwater and elevated levels of nitrate in drinking water can pose serious health concerns for humans.

The MDA is seeking public input and will be holding five public listening sessions throughout the state to discuss the proposed Nitrogen Fertilizer Rule at which written comments can be submitted. The draft rule can be viewed online at www.mda.state.mn.us/nfr.

All comments regarding the proposed rule must be submitted in writing.

After consideration of comments received, the MDA expects to publish the final draft of the rule in the fall of 2017. The rule is expected to be adopted in the fall of 2018.

The draft Nitrogen Fertilizer Rule is based on the Minnesota Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan which recommends steps for minimizing impacts

of nitrogen fertilizer on groundwater and emphasizes involving the local community in developing local solutions.

Listening sessions on the draft rule will be held at the following dates and locations: June 22, 5 p.m., Marshall Public Library, 201 C St., Marshall; June 28, 6 p.m., Chatfield Center for the Arts, 405 Main St., Chatfield; June 29, 2 p.m., University of Minnesota Extension Office, 4100 220th Street West, Farmington; July 6, 3 p.m., Great River Regional Library, 1300 West Saint Germain St., St. Cloud; July 11, 6 p.m., Robertson Theatre, Wadena-Deer Creek High School, 600 Colfax Ave. SW, Wadena.

Written comments on the draft Nitrogen Fertilizer Rule should be submitted by Aug. 11 via mail or email to: Larry Gunderson, Fertilizer Technical Unit Supervisor, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, 625 Robert St. N., St. Paul, MN, 55155-2538, e-mail larry.gunderson@state.mn.us.

All comments should, but are not required to, include a contact name, phone number and/or email address to provide for follow-up discussion on specific comments.

This article was submitted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.v

NEWS & INFO FOR MINNESOTA & NORTHERN IOWA DAIRY PRODUCERS

from

THE LAND

Cheddar output for May is highest monthly total on record a year ago, with year-to-date at 1.5 billion pounds, down 1.5 percent.

Dry whey totaled 84.3 million pounds, up 3.0 percent, with year-todate hitting 331.3 million pounds, up 2.6 percent.

Nonfat dry milk output hit 170.9 million pounds, up 7 percent from March

but down slightly from a year ago, with year-to-date at 625.4 million pounds, up 0.3 percent. Skim milk powder totaled 50.2 million pounds, down 4.7 percent from March but 16.2 percent above a year ago. Year-to-date output is at 198.2 million pounds, up 13.1 percent.

See MIELKE, pg. 18

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This column was written stands at 4.1 billion pounds, for the marketing week endup 2.1 percent from this ing June 9. time a year ago.

The climb continued in the California produced 210.4 latest Global Dairy Trade million pounds of that auction; but at a slower cheese, down 2.8 percent pace. The weighted average from March but 4.4 percent for all products offered June above a year ago. Wisconsin, 6 inched up 0.6 percent, the at 275.9 million pounds, MIELKE MARKET sixth consecutive event of was down 4.1 percent from WEEKLY gain, following a 3.2 percent March and 1.3 percent rise on May 16. above a year ago. Idaho outBy Lee Mielke put was up 10.1 percent GDT cheddar led the from a year ago. Minnesota was up 0.8 gains, up an impressive 14.5 percent, percent. after it inched 0.6 percent higher May 16. Skim milk powder was up 7.9 perItalian cheese totaled 448.3 million cent, following a 1 percent rise. Butter pounds. This is down 4.4 percent from was up 3.3 percent, after leading the March, but 2.2 percent above a year gains last time with an 11.2 percent ago, with year-to-date output at 1.78 jump. billion pounds, up 0.7 percent.

Whole milk powder was down 2.9 Mozzarella, at 348.1 million pounds, percent, after inching 1.3 percent was up 2.3 percent, with year-to-date higher May 16, and anhydrous milkfat at 1.4 billion pounds, down 0.7 percent. was down 1.2 percent following an 8.2 Total American-type cheese hit 419.3 percent climb. million pounds, up 0.8 percent from FC Stone equated the average 80 March and 5.3 percent above a year percent butterfat GDT butter price to ago. Year-to-date totaled 1.6 billion $2.4921 per pound U.S. Chicago Merpounds, up 3.7 percent. cantile Exchange butter closed June 9 Cheddar output totaled 314.2 million at $2.4750 per pound. GDT cheddar pounds, the highest monthly total since cheese equated to $1.9436 per pound record keeping began, according to the U.S. and compares to June 9’s CME Daily Dairy Report. Cheddar output is block cheddar at $1.63. GDT skim milk up 4.8 percent from a year ago, with powder hit 97.79 cents per pound and year-to-date at 1.2 billion pounds, up whole milk powder averaged $1.4258 6.2 percent from a year ago.

U.S. CME Grade A nonfat dry milk U.S. churns produced 164.1 million closed June 9 at 90.75 cents per pound. pounds of butter, down 11.96 million n pounds or 6.8 percent from March and Preliminary data reported April’s 7.1 million pounds or 4.1 percent below 50-state milk production at 18.3 billion a year ago. Year-to-date butter totaled pounds, up 2.0 percent from April 679 million pounds, down 0.9 percent.

2016. The U.S. Department of AgriculCalifornia butter totaled 48 million ture’s latest Dairy Products report pounds, down 5.2 percent from March shows that processors made more and 6.9 percent below a year ago. New cheese and less butter with it.

York output was down 16.8 percent April cheese output totaled 1.04 bilfrom March and 13.8 percent below a lion pounds, down 2.1 percent from year ago.

March but 3.7 percent above April Yogurt output amounted to 369.5 2016. Year-to-date cheese output million pounds, down 0.9 percent from

17 THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

Milker's Message 28

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

18

CME cheese prices pressured by block and barrel spread MIELKE, from pg. 17 Nonfat dry milk stocks stood at 266.3 million pounds, up 7.6 percent from March and 5.6 percent above a year ago. The report is viewed as mostly bearish, except for butter. n Dairy prices slumped the first full week of June Dairy Month, even on butter, as plenty of product made its way to Chicago. Traders awaited the June 9 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report where USDA again lowered its 2017 and 2018 milk production estimates “as lower expected growth in milk per cow more than offsets expected gains in cow numbers.”

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Cheddar block cheese closed at $1.63 per pound, down 7 cents on the week but still 15.5 cents above a year ago. The barrels finished at $1.4150, down 7.5 cents. This is 9.5 cents below a year ago, and still at a too-high 21.5 cents below the blocks. On the week, 12 cars of block traded hands and 49 of barrel.

HighGround Dairy’s Monday Morning Huddle pointed out that, since the week ending May 5, 203 barrels had traded hands at the CME, an equivalent to about 8.7 million pounds and 115 more than the same time frame the prior year.

Milk availability for Central cheesemakers was mixed on the week, according to Dairy Market News.

Some reported continuance of abundant milk supplies, others reported noticeably fewer offers, with milk spots reported from $2.50 to $6.00 under Class. After weeks of generally strong cheese sales, Midwest producers reported that demand slackened a bit after Memorial Day weekend. Inventory reports vary. Some pizza cheese producers report light inventories in recent weeks, as strong demand has dipped into stored cheese but the cheese market tone is “uncertain.”

Western cheese output is active and many facilities are running at or near full capacity due to readily available milk. Domestic retail demand remains good and some manufacturers are getting more inquiries from export buyers, but this business has yet to fully develop. Cheese makers welcome any additional business as inventories are generally heavy, especially for barrel cheese. Stocks of mozzarella are growing seasonally with schools out for the summer and demand for pizza entering the low point for the year. Contacts suggest that the current spread between block and barrel prices at the CME is “putting a lot of price pressure on barrel cheese producers.”

Cash butter moved to $2.5250 on June 5, the highest price since December 9, 2015. But the price then sputtered and closed June 9 at $2.4750, down a penny on the week but 27.5 cents above a year ago.

On the week, 37 cars traded hands.

Dairy Market News says retail and food service butter demand remains steady to strong and international interests have increased. Butter production is steady, as producers try to get ahead of export opportunities and fall storage. Cream, in the Central region, is still readily available but the butter market tone is “generally healthy.”

Western butter output is following typical seasonal patterns. A few manufacturers are trying to slow the churns and find other markets for their cream. A few suggest that if the region gets a lot of hot weather, ice cream manufacturers may increase cream demand quickly.

Grade A nonfat dry milk fell to 90.75 cents per pound, with 24 cars finding new homes on the week. n It’s no wonder a labeling battle is going on by the dairy industry. Non-dairy products are taking market share, reports the June 2 Dairy and Food Market

Analyst. The Analyst stated, “In the 52 weeks ending April 16, ‘alternative beverages’ accounted for a whopping 6.6 percent of fluid milk sales, up from 6.1 percent one year ago, according to IRI data.”

For perspective, the Analyst points out that “organic fluid milk products have just 5.0 percent of the fluid milk market. ‘Almond Beverage’ and ‘Coconut Beverage’ are experiencing the fastest growth in that category, up 9.6 percent year-over-year and 8.9 percent year-over-year respectively.”

“What does that look like from a business perspective,” the Analyst asks? “Elmhurst (formerly Elmhurst Dairy), based in Elma, N.Y., recently launched a new business model to ‘lead the plantbased revolution.’ Their products, ‘Milked Almond,’ ‘Milked Cashew,’ ‘Milked Hazelnut,’ and ‘Milked Walnut’ beverages, are all non-GMO, gluten free, vegan, dairy free, lactose free and kosher. In 32-ounce cartons. These high-margin products are targeted at millennials and are available for purchase at groceries including Bristol Farms and Publix,” says Dairy and Food Market Analyst. n The USDA’s latest National Milk Cost of Production report shows April’s total milk production costs were up from March but below a year ago. Total feed costs averaged $10.47 per hundredweight, up 23 cents from March, but 4 cents below April 2016.

Purchased feed costs, at $5.63/cwt., were 5 cents below March, but 6 cents above April 2016.

Total costs, including feed, bedding, marketing, fuel, repairs, hired labor, taxes, etc., at $21.83/cwt., were 19 cents above a year ago.

Feed costs made up 47.96 percent of total costs in April, up from 47.1 percent the month before but down from 48.6 percent a year ago.

The latest Margin Watch from Chicago-based Commodity and Ingredient Hedging says, “Dairy margins held steady over the second half of the month, with strength in milk offset by slightly higher feed costs.

Margins remain at historically strong levels, near or above the 80th percentile of the previous 10 years through the first quarter of 2018. Milk prices continue drawing support from strength in dairy product values, particularly cheese and butter.” n The Progressive Agriculture Organization announced that several farm organizations, milk cooperatives, and county commissioners have petitioned USDA for a national milk hearing that would allow U.S. dairy farmers to testify and “illustrate the severity of the problems that the majority of dairy farmers are experiencing,” according to a Pro-Ag press release. The petition calls for “abolishing USDA’s existing milk pricing formula and replace it with a formula that would consider the dairy farmers’ cost of producing milk.”

Lee Mielke is a syndicated columnist who resides in Everson, Wash. His weekly column is featured in newspapers across the country and he may be reached at lkmielke@juno.com. v

Robotic milking improves life for cows, farmers health issues. He can sort the data into useful reports.

“There’s so much information we can pull out of here,” said Scott.

One important statistic is the fat to protein ratio in the milk.

“We want the butterfat to be higher than protein,” said Scott, adding that if it’s the other way round, you’ve got a health problem.

Scott also looks at benchmarks to compare how they are doing to other farms. He has computer data for three years now. He entered a year’s worth of

Photos by Marie Wood

Scott, Cathy and Rick Balzer use two Lely robotic milkers in a freestall barn at Balzer Family Dairy near Owatonna, Minn.

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Then many cows walk to the large Lely brush, which they rub with their head for grooming.

Meanwhile, the milk goes through a tube that is inside a larger tube that holds water. The milk is 102 F and the water helps cool the milk which is more efficient for the bulk tank cooler.

In turn, the milk also helps warm the water that is going into the trough for the cows. The cows drink more when the water is warm.

The cows can continue to be milked even when the milk truck comes to pump out the milk. While the bulk tank is being emptied, the system pumps milk into a buffer tank. The truck comes every other day, collecting roughly 18,000 pounds.

Instead of a total mixed ration (TMR), the cows are fed a partially mixed ration (PMR) once a day and a Lely feed pusher travels the feed lane.

“I call it my hot dish,” said Cathy.

They receive the rest of their feed in their pellets when they are milked.

“They seem to be so much more comfortable in this barn than the old barn,” said Cathy.

The cows have more space to lay and sprawl out; they can pass through the alley; they have increased access to water; and the hoof trimmer is seeing less sole ulcers.

Data From an office with a window that overlooks the barn, Scott can view the operation. On the computer, he looks at detailed data on each cow generated by the robots. He can see the number of lactations, days pregnant, production, milk speed, vaccinations, etc. He is alerted to cows in heat, as well as

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

By MARIE WOOD The Land Associate Editor OWATONNA, Minn. — Robots have replaced Rick and Cathy Balzer at the Balzer Family Dairy near Owatonna, and they couldn’t be happier.

“You’d get in between the two cows to milk them and it was like being between two furnaces,” said Cathy.

The couple, with their son Scott Balzer, built a freestall barn to accommodate 120 Holsteins. Two Lely Astronaut robots, named Rick and Cathy, have been milking the cows since August 2015.

At age 57, Rick said his body and knees were wearing out. “I milked in the old barn for 40 years,” he said.

And Cathy doesn’t miss doing squats down the tiestall barn. The work was hard on her knees, feet and hips. They milked twice a day — 6-9 a.m. and 6-9 p.m., sometimes a half hour longer. It was getting harder to find help with the milking. They also had calves to feed and field work.

They were too young to retire and their son, Scott, wanted to carry on the family dairy.

Now they can walk into the robot rooms and see one side of the robot and the legs of the cow, it is milking.

The other side of the robot is in the barn. The cows enter the robotic milker of their own free will. The incentive is pellets that are like candy for the cows.

Unlike candy, the pellets provide nutrition and energy. By scanning the cow’s ID tag, the robot knows the exact amount of pellets to dispense.

“Fresh cows need more glucose,” said Rick.

Cows can be rejected if it is too soon to be milked again. If the cow is approved for milking, the robot uses brushes to clean the teats for optimal hygiene and stimulation. Next a laser maps the udder, storing the data until next time. The teat cups attach gently and milking begins. After milking, the cups are removed and a post dip is sprayed on the udder.

According to the Lely website, its automatic milking process minimizes milking times, improves udder health and reduces udder stress. Using very hot water, the robots are cleaned and sanitized twice daily.

“Generally after they get milked, they get a drink of water,” said Rick.

19

20

Robotic milkers increased milk production per cow

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

BALZER, from pg. 19 data on each cow when they set up the system and he kept some of the old cow cards.

The dairy’s average number of milkings is 2.9 per day which is within Lely’s target range of 2.8 to 3.2.

On average, their cows produce about 80 pounds of milk per day. The range of milk per cow is 25-130 pounds daily.

Production has increased to 15 pounds more milk per cow per day, said Rick.

Chores Scott does most of the work in the new barn. He feeds the cows and rakes their beds. Their beds are dried manure solids.

An alley scraper scrapes the manure. A manure separator separates the liquids from the solids. The

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

This Lely robotic milker is named after Cathy Balzer at the Balzer Family Dairy. The other robot is named after Rick Balzer.

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solids travel and dry on an elevated conveyor belt before they are delivered to the stalls.

“The whole design in this barn is to keep the skid loader out, to not disturb the cows and let them do their thing,” said Scott.

Rick takes care of the freshening cows and feeds out the steers, finishing them before selling them.

He also handles the field work and any mechanical repairs on the farm. Cathy cares for calves and does the bookwork. Then there are the heifers, dry cows and calving.

“There’s always something to do,” said Rick.

Scott also manages the breeding program. They do genomic testing where a hair or skin sample is tested for a variety of genetic traits. The information is used to cull the herd. They will take the bottom 10 to 15 percent and raise them for beef.

One trait, Scott is looking at is milking speed.

Some cows can provide 2 pounds of milk per minute while others can provide 13 to 14 pounds per minute.

“We’re trying to set them up right from the beginning. Down the road we will cull for fast milkers,” said Scott.

Balzer Family Dairy is truly a family operation.

Rick and Cathy’s son, Ross, is an electrician and completed the electric and wiring work in the new barn. Their son, Brandon, has an IBA dairy supply route and delivers to his family’s dairy. Their son, Reid, is a product specialist for Lely North America.

Advice Rick would have done one thing differently. He would have made the special needs pen bigger. This pen has four stalls for fresh cows or cows with other issues. He likes to keep his fresh cows there for several days so he can watch them and get them off to a good start.

“Look at a lot of dairy farmers and other robot farms. It took us five years to decide,” said Rick. v

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Staying cool: Cattle should have it made in the shade Make sure water access is plentiful and clean, because a problem with either will reduce water intake and reduce productivity independent of heat The first heat-stress event can be stress. most challenging because cattle WE BUILD OUR STALLS RIGHT! have not fully adapted to the seaDairy studies show cows respond to hota weather Take look at by either finding a way to cool off or increasing their sonally higher temperatures. our tubing with heat load to the point of illness as productivity unequaled corrosion next generaherd goals while targeting the brand with above- declines along the way. Conceiving the protection! tion is a lower priority than feeding the current calf, average marbling will be in vain if heat stress renso cows use reproductive energy to cool themselves Freudenthal Tubing has been ders him sterile. Spermatogenesis requires 60 days, stress persists, milk for your specific so heat stress events can have lasting consequences at the cost of pregnancy. If heat engineered production declines as more energy diverts to furrequirements where strength on herd fertility through sub-fertile bulls. ther cooling, at the risk of lower weaning weights for and corrosion resistance are Auto Release Locks Panel CORROSION Try to keep cows on vegetative forages during hot Head calves.

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THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

It’s been an interesting year for climate, as we could tell halfway through the spring. A parade of wind storms, fires, blizzards and floods moved swiftly by, leaving every cattle farm and ranch to cope with those and the peculiarities of an early or late spring, with too little or too much moisture.

Still, cattle are one of the most adaptable food-animal species, proven by their thriving herds in operations across North America in heat, humidity, cold, wet and everything in between.

Summer means there will be some hot days. As the sun comes up each morning, temperatures will rise and some cattle will experience heat stress. Summer heat will take a toll on productivity and ultimately beef quality.

Cow-calf producers have several ways to ease the impact. Well-shaded areas should be available to pastures in late June and early July. The first heatstress event can be the most challenging because cattle have not fully adapted to the seasonally higher temperatures.

Keeping bulls cool may be of greatest importance.

Your investment in the next great sire to advance all

21

Farmamerica helps bridge gap from farm to table

By MARIE WOOD The Land Associate Editor WASECA, Minn. — When students and visitors come to explore Farmamerica in Waseca, they can climb into modern farm equipment, enter a pioneer dugout, visit a 1930s era farmstead and learn where their food comes from.

Gabriell Edel, event coordinator at Farmamerica, also works at Kasper Dairy, a 400-head family dairy near Owatonna. Edel teaches a farm-totable lesson on the dairy industry to school tours.

“The kids just light up,” said Edel, 22, of Owatonna.

Her presentation includes photos from Kasper Dairy, where she works on the maternity crew, caring for calves from birth until they are weaned from milk. Kids see photos of her teaching the calves to drink milk from

If You Go What: Ice Cream Social with tram rides, animals, games, antique equipment display When: 1-4 p.m. July 8 Where: Farmamerica, 7367 360th Ave., Waseca Cost: $5 per person; members free Learn more: www.farmamerica.org Call (507) 835-2052 to volunteer

Photo submitted

At Farmamerica, Gabriell Edel shows photos of her work at Kasper Dairy to school tours.

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

22

a bottle and filling their milk buckets when they get older. She also shows pictures of cows being milked.

She asks the children if they eat dairy products and they tell her they eat cheese, milk, yogurt and ice cream.

She encourages them to eat three dairy servings daily, but not ice cream every day. “As ice cream is very good,

that doesn’t cause you to grow,” she said.

When she showed a photo of the dairy’s bulk tank, where milk is stored, one student guessed the tank was a silo. She explained that at Kasper Dairy, the tank is filled twice a day, every day when the cows are milked.

The milk truck comes twice a day to pick up the milk. Now what happens, she asked.

“They drive it to maybe like a store,” said one student.

Edel explained that the milk goes to a plant, where it is cleaned and bottled into 1 percent, 2 percent and skim milk. Then the milk is sold to stores where they can buy it.

To explain how dairy farmers care for calves, she used terms children can understand. Since calves can’t talk, Edel told them how she wakes them See Farmamerica, pg. 23

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Photos by Marie Wood

Children shear sheep using a scraper and shaving cream at Farmamerica.

Elementary School in Mankato, visited Farmamerica with her class in May. She said the Farmamerica field trips gives her kids a love of history and hands-on experience.

Only a handful of her students had been on a farm before.

“Every year we come, our kids just love it,” said Carlson. “To really get on a farm and live it for a day, that’s fun.”

The experience goes beyond a petting zoo and children learn about animal science and the use of animals for food and fiber. For instance, they sheared sheep by scraping shaving cream off wooden sheep cutouts. Using paddles, they carded wool by hand.

Farmamerica volunteer Jerry Schroeder shows school students what a The Holstein calves didn’t come barn in the 1930s looked like. Wooden cows help illustrate his points. up to the fence to meet their visitors, but volunteer Jerry Schroeder of Waseca took the kids through a it was not electronic.

1930s milking barn with wooden cutouts of cows.

At the 1930s farmstead, the kids enjoyed watching With a special pail, the wooden cows can be milked several pigs. “It’s so curly,” said one student about a by hand. v pig’s tail. As they were leaving, another chimed in with “I want to see the pigs again.”

Jenna Carlson, third grade teacher at Rosa Parks

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

Farmamerica, from pg. 22 up just like their mom and dad wake them up in the morning. She plays with the calves’ belly, ears and nose to see how they are feeling.

“Those three things tell me if they’re sick or not,” said Edel.

Jenna Carlson She talked about bottles warmed like baby bottles. As for cow ear tags — they don’t hurt, it’s just like getting your ears pierced. She likens their straw bedding to sheets, which are changed twice a day where she works.

Edel explained the commitment that farmers have to their animals. “You don’t feed yourself until your cow is fed,” she said.

Edel graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato in May with a degree in program planning and a non-profit leadership certification. Her goal is to be a 4-H program planner.

She is passionate about agriculture. As a 2016 Steele County dairy princess and now Farmamerica event coordinator, she is working to bridge the gap between consumers and producers.

“What goes on at Farmamerica becomes very magical,” said Edel. “The opportunity of learning this way versus in a classroom is what needs to happen — giving them that hands-on experience of animals.”

History On the 1850s farmsite, kids explored a dugout, hovel and cabin and washed rags using a washboard and tub. They saw an antique plow that a settler would have used with the help of oxen. Oxen could survive by grazing on prairie grasses so pioneers used oxen to pull their wagons west.

In the one-room schoolhouse, students played with old-time toys like stilts, which was fun even though

23

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

24

FRIDAY, JUNE 16, 2017 Farmland For Sale 113 Acres +/- Blue Earth County, MN.

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<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

Shelby Twp. No buildings (108.58 Tillable acres)

Taking Consignments For:

Cash rented for 2017

Neighborhood Consignment Auction

Call Carl, Agent.

952-944-8737 or 612-240-5770 www.FladeboeLand.com

Tuesday, July 18, 2017 9 am

LARGE ALBANY, MN AREA OFFICIAL DHIA HOLSTEIN DAIRY CATTLE AUCTION TUESDAY JUNE 27TH, 2017, 11:00AM

LOCATION: EXIT INTERSTATE 94 AT ALBANY, MN THEN 1.3 MILES NORTH ON STATE 238, THEN 7.5 MILES EAST & NORTH ON COUNTY 10, THEN CONTINUE 1 MILE NORTH ON 200TH AVE, THEN 1.2 MILES WEST ON 430TH ST. TO FARM #21166.

190 HEAD OF VERY GOOD OFFICIAL DHIA HOLSTEINS WILL SELL UNDERCOVER 100% HOME BRED HOLSTEINS, CURRENT DHIA 2 X 19,500 MILK, 3.9% 760 FAT, 3.2% 624 PROTEIN, SCC 250,000. 66# TANK AVG. NO BST. TIE STALL COWS W/SEVERAL SWITCHED AT VARIOUS INTERVALS. SHOULD EASILY ADAPT TO FREE STALL FACILITY. SEVERAL RECENTLY FRESH OR DUE SOON. MANY FIRST THROUGH THIRD LACTATIONS. ARTIFICALLY BRED FOR 50 YEARS W/ LIMITED USE OF REGISTERED HERD SIRES AS CLEAN UP. EXCELLENT HERD HEALTH PROGRAM. CATALOG AVAILABLE W/ BREEDING & PRODUCTION INFO APPROX 2 WEEKS PRIOR TO AUCTION BY CALLING 320-760-2979 OR SEE ONLINE AT www.midamericanauctioninc.com. SALE HELD UNDERCOVER, TRUCKING AVAILABLE. INCLUDES: 125 FANCY YOUNG HOLSTEIN COWS, SEVERAL RECENTLY FRESH OR DUE SOON 38 LARGE FRAME SPRINGING HEIFERS DUE JULY AND AUGUST 25 CHV OPEN HEIFERS 12 TO 15 MONTHS OLD 1 VERY GOOD REGISTERED REMARK SON DOB 11-19-15, DAM & SECOND DAM RECORDS OF 25,000 AND 33,000 # OF MILK AS 2 YEAR OLDS

BRETH DAIRY OWNERS 21166 430TH ST. ALBANY, MN PHONE VERNON 320-241-2301, MARVIN 320-241-6031, KYLE 320-250-3402 FOR MORE INFO. PHONE

MID-AMERICAN AUCTION CO. INC. AL WESSEL LIC #77-60 PH. 320-760-2979 KEVIN WINTER 320-760-1593 AUCTIONEERS

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Advertising deadline is Thursday, June 22, 2017 Auctioneer taking Consignments:

Matt Mages 507-276-7002 magesland.com

Employment

015

Real Estate Wanted

021 Hay & Forage Equip

031

Hay & Forage Equip

031

25

FARM MANAGER WANT- WANTED: Land & farms. I FOR SALE: JD #328 baler w/ JD 24T baler, never misses a have clients looking for ED: On a 170 cow organic bale, always cleaned & #42 ejector, electric condairy, & cash grain operadairy, Central WI, motivatshedded, $1,500; (2) NH trols, one owner, field tions, as well as bare land ed, & reliable individual or rakes w/ double hitch, ready. 320-583-7062 or 320parcels from 40-1000 acres. family to live on the farm $1,500; IH 2400 rnd baler, 327-2507 Both for relocation & in& perform daily operations. always cleaned & shedded, vestments.

If you have Opportunity for farm own$1,200. 218-739-3979 FOR SALE: JD 328 baler even thought about selling ership also avail. with 40 ejector, excellent contact: Paul Krueger, (715)560-0389 condition. 715-962-4175 Bins & Buildings 033 Farm & Land Specialist, Edina Realty, SW Suburban Real Estate 020 SILO DOORS Office, 14198 Commerce Ave NE, Prior Lake, MN FOR SALE: MF #3 small Wood or steel doors shipped square hay baler, works promptly to your farm 55372.

Sell your land or real estate good, always shedded, has paulkrueger@edinarealty.com stainless fasteners in 30 days for 0% commis(952)447-4700 dual wheels & twine, Monthardware available. sion. Call Ray 507-339-1272 gomery, MN $895. 507-364(800)222-5726 7675 Landwood Sales LLC Hay & Forage Equip 031

THANK YOU FOR READING THE LAND!

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

ADVERTISING NOTICE: Please check your ad the first week it runs. We make every effort to avoid errors by checking all copy, but sometimes errors are missed.

Therefore, we ask that you review your ad for correctness. If you find a mistake, please call (507) 345-4523 immediately so that the error can be corrected. We regret that we cannot be responsible for more than one weekĂ­s insertion if the error is not called to our attention. We cannot be liable for an amount greater than the cost of the ad. THE LAND has the right to edit, reject or properly classify any ad. Each classified line ad is separately copyrighted to THE LAND. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

FOR SALE: 16' Badger chopper box on tandem gear, $2,500; 14' Badger chopper box, $2,000, always shedded. 763-370-3546

EXCEPTIONALLY CLEAN FARM RETIREMENT AUCTION The McNamara Bros. have leased out their cropland, therefore, they shall sell all of their clean farm machinery at a no-reserve public auction.

MATT MARING

CO.

Saturday, July 1, 2017 10 A.M. SHARP

This farm retirement auction will give you, the buyer, an opportunity to purchase exceptionally clean farm machinery.

For more photos go to www.maringauction.com COMPLETELY RESTORED ALLIS CHALMERS TWOTWENTY 2WD TRACTOR, EXCEPTIONAL ALLIS CHALMERS 200 2WD AND XT190 SERIES III TRACTORS, ALLIS CHALMERS 440 4x4

XXX County Rd 23, Lanesboro, MN

New

List

ing

â&#x20AC;˘120 Acres â&#x20AC;˘ Gibbon Creek runs through â&#x20AC;˘ Hunt, camp, enjoy nature MLS# 4078921 $420,000

XXXX Easy St, Lanesboro, MN

â&#x20AC;˘205 Acres â&#x20AC;˘ 196.25 tillable acres â&#x20AC;˘ Start new operation or add to existing MLS# 4078914

$1,332,500

SPECIAL NOTE: No viewing until Saturday, June 24-Auction day, 9am-6pm - All machinery is in the best of the best condition.

Bid and buy with confidence Terms: Cash, check, all major credit cards. All sales final. All selling as-is with any and all faults.

Everything at the McNamara farm retirement sells with no reserve.

Live and Online Bidding at proxi-bid www.proxibid.com/maring auction proxibid ÂŽ

For more photos go to www.maringauction.com

McNamara Bros., sellers/owners Dennis McNamara 612-720-2885 / Paul McNamara 651-216-2583

We Sell the Earth & Everything On It.

MATT MARING AUCTION CO. INC. PO Box 37, Kenyon, MN 55946 Â&#x2021;

0DWW 0DULQJ /LF Â&#x2021; .HYLQ 0DULQJ /LF Â&#x2021; $GDP (QJHQ /LF Â&#x2021; Allen Henslin

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where Farm and Family Meetâ&#x20AC;?

1972 Allis Chalmers Two-Twenty 2WD tractor, new 20.8x38 duals, 3-pt., 2 hyd., front weights, 1000 PTO. This tractor has been completely restored, engine overhauled, new injectors, looks and runs better than when the tractor was new. 19 hours since this tractor was restored, SN#220-2777D; 1973 Allis Chalmers 200, 2WD tractor, 18.4x38, 75%, 2,610 hours showing, 540 PTO, 3-pt., 2 hyd., front weights, year round cab, heater, exceptionally clean, original tractor, SN#200-5237D; 1970 Allis Chalmers XT-190 Series III 2WD tractor, 4,288 hours, front weights, rear wheel weights, 3-pt., 540/1000 PTO, new 18.4x34 Firestones, year-round cab, radio, heater, clean tractor, SN#190-28503XTD ++These 3 tractors (1972 Allis Chalmers Two-Twenty, 1973 Allis Chalmers 200 and 1970 Allis Chalmers XT-190 Series III) can stand strong in any farm collection or they are ready to go to the field and work++ 1974 Allis Chalmers 440 4x4 tractor, 555 Cummins, 220 hp., 10/2 speed trans., 3-pt., 2 hyd., heater, AC, radio all work, 23.1x30 duals, runs excellent, SN#1600.

CLEAN LOW-HOURED GLEANER R65 COMBINE, GLEANER 3000 CORN HEAD, LOW-HOURED CLEAN GLEANER N6 COMBINE, GLEANER 320 BEAN HEAD 2006 Gleaner R65 2WD combine, 1,100 engine hours, 648 sep. hours, GTA monitor screen display, Field Star Ready, chopper/spreader, 30.5x32, 85%, super clean, SN#R-65-HR62182; 2012 Gleaner Agco 3000 corn head, 6 row 30â&#x20AC;?, poly knife rolls, SN#R630T0CHCH1227; 1982 Gleaner N6 Series Three 2WD combine, 2,612 hours, 2,612 hours, 1,761 sep. hours, chopper, all new updates, new feeder chain, fans, bin topper, 30.5x32 tires, 60%, SN#N6K05495182; Several R65 parts; Gleaner Model 320 bean head, 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, 1.5â&#x20AC;? cut, extra new sickle.

JOHN DEERE 7200 PLANTER, CASE-IH 5300 DRILL, OTHER TILLAGE & SPRAYING EQUIPMENT John Deere 7200 planter, 6 row 30â&#x20AC;?, dry fert., cross auger, insect. Boxes, finger pickup, 1 set of corn, one set of bean, monitor, super clean, low acre; Case IH 5300 drill, 12â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x6â&#x20AC;? spacing, like new, press wheels; Allis Chalmers 1500 min-til, 11-shank disc chisel, 13â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, all new blades, rock cushion gangs, looks new; IHC 490 wing disk, 22.5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, 9â&#x20AC;? spacings, 3-bar harrow, floating hitch; Glenco soil saver disc chisel plow, 9-shank, 11.5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;;

Buy one or both! Keep the farm or split it.

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

AUCTION LOCATION: 16492 Orlando Ave., Hastings MN 55033.

From Hastings, take Red Wing Blvd. or Hwy. 316 south of Hastings to Nicolai Ave., turn north on Nicolai Ave. to 160th Street E., go east on 160th St. E. to Orlando Ave., south on Orlando Ave. to farm. Watch for signs.

John Deere RM 3-pt. cult., 6-row, 30â&#x20AC;?, rolling shields; John Deere 400 rotary hoe, 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, 3-pt., stone guard, excellent condition; Top-Air 500 gal. crop sprayer, 45â&#x20AC;&#x2122; cross fold booms, foamer, PTO pump, rinse tank, tandem axle adjustable w/controller, excellent cond.; 1600 Gal. poly nurse tank; EZ-Flow 300 gravity box with hydraulic fert. auger on NH running gear.

LIKE NEW GT545XL GRAIN DRYER, EXCELLENT CLIPPER SUPER X298D COMMERCIAL FANNING MILL, BRENT 544 GRAIN WAGON, OTHER GRAIN WAGON, AUGERS GT Model 545XL grain dryer, stainless steel, LP gas, PTO drive, 500 bu. cap., 355 bu./hr., 8.5 removal, transport wheels, looks like new, SN#549640; 25 HP 3-phase electric motor with all drive pulleys & belt to operate GT545XL dryers. To be sold separately from dryer; Clipper Super X289D commercial fanning mill, all oak frame, 5.5â&#x20AC;&#x2122; wide x 12â&#x20AC;&#x2122; long x 8.5â&#x20AC;&#x2122; tall on MN 8-ton running gear, 26 sieves, excellent condition; Brent 544 gravity flow box, 22.5 rubber, rear brakes, light & ladder kit, red in color, SN#B26-380-187, looks new; Westfield J206-36 grain auger, 6â&#x20AC;?x36â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, PTO; Westfield WR80-61, 8â&#x20AC;?x61â&#x20AC;&#x2122; poly hopper, PTO; Hutchinson Century grain auger, 8â&#x20AC;?x60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, PTO, poly hopper; 6â&#x20AC;?x10â&#x20AC;&#x2122; auger w/electric motor; Dole 400 grain tester; Triggs 450 bushel hydraulic side dump grain wagon on 15-ton gear.

MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT & AC PARTS Snap-On Gear & Bearing Pull; Cherry Pick 2-Ton Engine Jack; (2) AC 210, 220, D21 Rear Wheel Weights; AC210-220 mufflers; AC 190, 200, 210, 220-7000 rear wheel weights; 7000 Series Mexican hats; Rims, 20x30; 210-220 Wheel castings; 32â&#x20AC;? Rear wheel castings; Set of 12.4x24 tires & rims (N6-N5); 18.4x38 Power adjust wheels; 18.4x34 Band duals; (2) 7.5-16 New tractor tires; 18.4x34 Power adjust wheels; (75+) 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x2â&#x20AC;?

Alum. irrigation pipe; Work Save 5500 lbs. loader pallet forks; Work Save loader bale spear; Berkeley 540 PTO pump w/12â&#x20AC;? hose; Bin Air flow fan.

Bins & Buildings

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

26

033

Farm Implements

035 Farm Implements

035 Farm Implements

035 Farm Implements

Barn roofing Hip or round FOR SALE: '94 Wilson Pace- FOR SALE: Fantini chop- FOR SALE: Case IH 183 roof barns and other buildsetter hopper grain trailer, ping 8R & 12R CH; 70' 12R30” cultivator; 12R30” ings. Also barn and quonset $10,500; JD 893 8R30 cornElmer drag, Merritt alum 5800 Hiniker cultivator; straightening. Kelling Silo head, new sprockets, hopper grain trailers; '89 7120 Case IH tractor. 5071-800-355-2598 IH 1680 combine; 24R30” chains, $12,000; JD 925 427-3561 bean head, $4,000; '12 JD pl on Kinze bar; Big A Stormor Bins & EZ-Drys.

Woods S20CD stalk chopfloater; 175 Michigan ldr; FOR SALE: Goodyear 100% financing w/no liens per, like new, less than 1000 IH 964 CH; White 706 & 708 Narrow Tractor Tires, or red tape, call Steve at acres, $12,000. 651-792-6518 CH & parts; White plows & Qty 2- 14.9x46, 70% tread, Fairfax Ag for an appointparts; 54' 4300 IH field culstep rim for 36" cast ment. 888-830-7757 tivator; JD 44' field cult; wheel; Qty 2- 14.9x46 70% 3300 Hiniker field cult; IH tread, steel duals, ag FOR SALE: Case IH 1830 260 backhoe; header trailGrain Handling Equip 034 10bolt; Qty 2- axle mount 16x30 flat fold cult. $7,750; er.

507-380-5324 hubs for duals w/bolts, JD 568 baler, net & twine FOR SALE:Used grain bins, $5,500. Great for the wrap, standard hyd pickfloors unload systems, stisprayer or sidedress up, good cond, $11,500; rators, fans & heaters, aertractor (641) 590-1102 FOR SALE: Goodyear DiDemco 1100 gal sprayer, 90' ation fans, buying or sellamond Tread Tires, Qty boom, 320x46 tires, $6,750; ing, try me first and also 2 - 30.5 x 32, Ag -10 bolt FOR SALE: Int'l 2350 loadRowse 9' 3pt sickle mower, call for very competitive pattern, std offset rim, IH head, $2,450; JD MX10 er, Quik Tach 7' bucket w/ contract rates!

Office good condition, 70%, 3pt, brush mower, $4,450; grapple fork & IH mounting hours 8am-5pm Monday – White color, came off Demco 550 grav box, brackets. JD #85 12R flat Friday Saturday 9am - 12 grain cart, stored inside, 425x22.5 tires, lights & fold cultivator w/ shields, noon or call 507-697-6133 $2,400. (641) 590-1102 brakes, $7,500. 320-769-2756 stored inside. No solicitors.

Ask for Gary 320-760-0969

035 Farm Implements

035 Tractors

036

FOR SALE: Dual wheel '11 3055 JD chopper, 7.5 hay JD 6400 MSWD cab loader, rear blade, one owner, 9700 head, 2R narrow corn head.

8x12' tilt bed trailer, Ideal hrs, asking $24,500. 608-792651-278-1449 skid loader unit, no ramps 8051 needed, new planr bed. 507We buy 370-2149 Salvage Equipment Harvesting Equip 037 Parts Available FOR SALE: Melroe model Hammell Equip., Inc. 403 60' spring toothed drag, '92 1680 Case IH Axial-flow (507)867-4910 1830 CIH 12-30 row cultivaCombine, 3375 hrs, Field tor. Both always shedded. ready, Mauer grain extenTractors 036 Best offer. 507-240-0294 sions, 8.3 Cummins, new hydro, long sieves, Hydrostatic & Hydraulic Re- 460 IH gas tractor, w/ Koyk$24,000/OBO (or best offer) er ldr, runs good; 60 JD gas pair Repair-Troubleshoot(507) 317-1987 tractor; 1600 Oliver D tracing Sales-Design Custom tor; 20' White tandem disk; hydraulic hose-making up CIH 2366 combine, 1,687 sep 16' White mounted digger; to 2” Service calls made. hrs, 2,666 eng hrs, specialty 7' rock bucket for skid ldr, STOEN'S Hydrostatic Serrotor, long unloading auger, Evenings. 320-366-3784 vice 16084 State Hwy 29 N field tracker, grain loss Glenwood, MN 56334 320- FOR SALE: JD D Styled; monitor, header control, 634-4360 heavy duty final drives, JD 1952 Model A; JD 1959 chain oilers. 605-359-6205 630, Mint Condition, All JD 6400 MFW tractor, w/ 640 Are Restored. Buy individuloader, all new Firestone ally or all 3! (715)723-9234 Tillage Equip 039 tires, exc cond, $22,500; '12 Bobcat S770 skidloader, FOR SALE: nice 1973 JD 2spd, AC, 80” bucket, exc 4430, always shedded, dual FOR SALE: Ag Enterprises cond, $29,500; '13 JD 569 40' 15 shank liquid fertilizer tires, $10,000; Lukes front baler, net & twine wrap, side dress applicator, John mount snow blower for mega wide hyd pickup, Blue ground driven pump, tractor. 218-739-3979 moisture monitor, 11,000 700 gal tank. 507-381-6719 bales, $21,500; Case IH 183 FOR SALE: Restored '78 12x30 flat fold cult, $1,650; MF 1135, 6401 hrs, 121 HP, FOR SALE: JD 856 6x30 cultivator (like new); 9x30” NH 499 12' haybine, good new seat, muffler, other anhydrous bar. Call 320-360cond, $4,750. 320-769-2756 parts, excellent tires, good 1240 runner, field or parade ready, $8,900/OBO. 507-250RHINO FLEX WING 0452 Machinery Wanted 040 Cutters New & Used 15 & 20' on Hand.

NEW AND USED TRACTOR See the New Sleek DesignPARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, All kinds of New & Used farm equipment – disc chisCleaner (More Open) 55, 50 Series & newer tracUnderneath. els, field cults, planters, tors, AC-all models, Large soil finishers, cornheads, 6 Year Warranty On Gear Inventory, We ship! Mark feed mills, discs, balers, Boxes Comes w/ Light Kit. Heitman Tractor Salvage Dealer 319-347-6282 Can Del haybines, etc. 507-438-9782 715-673-4829

Machinery Wanted

040

Spraying Equip

041

Spraying Equip

041

Planning an auction?

27

Get the best results when you advertise in

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

WANTED: Blacksmith TOP-AIR 1000 gal sprayer w/ 60' hyd lift booms; 3-way triphammer, anvils, cones, nozzles on 20" spacing; hyd swage block. 260-724-7554 or drive pump; 12.5L15 tires 260-413-0626 on 8-bolt rims on walking tandems; 3-zone controls, WANTED: Grain cart $2900. (715)878-9858 around 500 bushels, must be in great shape, field ready and shedded. 612-655Feed Seed Hay 050 1053

THE LAND

Organic corn $15 & soybeans $28.50 FOB Westby WI, negotiable. MOSA Stan 702203-9564

FOR SALE: '13 FS9518T Fast sprayer w/ 120' boom, 054 20” nozzle spacing, 1800 gal Livestock tank, 380/90/R46 tires, Raven Ultra Glide ISO FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls also Hamp, York, & boom height control, Raven Hamp/Duroc boars & gilts.

ISO rate control, like new.

320-598-3790 507-317-5625

HUGE GRAIN HANDLING EQUIPMENT, TRACTORS & COLLECTIBLE AUCTION

GRAIN HANDLING DIVISION OF CARLOS AG CENTER, AND PERSONAL PROPERTY OF RICH & AMANDA KASPER OWNERS. PH. 320-815-0288 FOR MORE INFO. PHONE

MID-AMERICAN AUCTION CO. INC. AL WESSEL LIC #77-60 PH. 320-760-2979 KEVIN WINTER 320-760-1593 AUCTIONEERS

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

NOTE: OWNERS HAVE DECIDED TO DISCONTINUE THE GRAIN HANDLING PORTION OF THE CARLOS AG SERVICE IN CARLOS, MN AS WELL AS SELLING A LARGE AMOUNT OF THEIR PERSONAL PROPERTY. ONLINE BIDDING AVAILABLE THROUGH PROXIBID. FOR INFO TO BID ONLINE PHONE 877-505-7770. FOR COMPLETE LISTING SEE: www.midamericanauctioninc.com OR PH. 320-352-3803 GRAIN BINS, DRYER, MIXERS, MILLS, BULK BINS & RELATED EQUIPMENT BUTLER 21,000 +/- BU GRAIN BIN, AIR FLOOR, NEWER 10HP SUKUP AERATION FAN; BUTLER 23,000 +/- BU GRAIN BIN, STANDARD FLOOR; SUPER B MODEL 388 (388 BU) CONTINUOUS AUTOMATIC STATIONARY BATCH STYLE DRYER,TWIN FAN, LP OR NATURAL GAS, 7.5HP ELEC. MOTOR, SHOWS 17,229 HRS, SN# 20Q341057927, NICE COND; ROSKAMP 4 ROLL 32” ROLLER MILL W/20HP ELEC. MOTOR; JACOBSON MODEL 150 4 TON VERTICAL FEED MIXER, 15HP MOTOR; JACOBSON HAMMER MILL W/50HP ELEC. MOTOR; (2) 4 TON HOPPER BINS W/4” AUGERS; 8 TON HOLDING BIN W/AUGER; (3) 1400 BU LOWRY WET BINS; HARMS ONE TON MINERAL TUMBLE MIXER W/MOTOR; WESTFIELD 10”X41’ AUGER W/7.5HP ELEC. MOTOR; WESTFIELD 10”X31’ CENTER PTO AUGER; BUEHLER FK 8”X21’ AUGER W/5HP ELEC. MOTOR; BUEHLER 8”X21’ AUGER W/7.5HP ELEC. MOTOR; PLUS SEVERAL OTHER AUGERS, BIN SEEPS & RELATED ITEMS. GRAVITY BOXES (14) GRAVITY BOXES & WAGONS INCLUDING: KILLBROS 400 BU ON 12 TON GEAR; (2) KILLBROS 385 GRAVITY BOXES ON HD 13 TON GEARS; (2) KILLBROS MODEL 387 GRAVITY BOXES ON HD 13 TON GEARS; (2) UNVERFERTH MODEL 325 GRAVITY BOXES ON 15 TON GEARS; MN MODEL 375 GRAVITY BOX ON 12 TON GEAR, PLUS SEVERAL OTHERS. COLLECTIBLE IH TRACTORS ‘54 SUPER H; (4) FARMALL B’S; (3) FARMALL M’S ONE W/WF; (2) FARMALL H’S; FARMALL C; RED IH LAWN TRACTOR; SEVERAL SETS OF WHEEL WGTS; TRACTOR TIRES & ACCESSORIES PEDAL TRACTORS AND FARM TOYS PEDAL TRACTORS INCL: FARMALL M DEMONSTRATOR; FARMALL SUPER H; FARMALL F20; JD A; ALLIS WD45; NH TM175; FORD 8N; FARMALL 806; (2) RADIO FLYER SCOOTERS; SEVERAL TOY TRACTORS OF VARIOUS BRANDS, PLUS SIGNS & OTHER COLLECTIBLE ITEMS. ALSO SELLING: IMPLEMENT TIRES & RIMS, MOTORS, PARTS, TOOLS & MUCH MORE.

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

FRIDAY JUNE 23RD, 2017- 10:30AM 105 MAIN STREET, CARLOS, MN (JUST 8 MILES NORTH OF ALEXANDRIA, MN ON HWY 29)

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

28

Look for our annual FARMFEST section inserted in The Land on July 21st and 28th.

Call 507-345-4523 for advertising information.

CASE IH & IHC TRACTORS - GLEANER COMBINE & HEADS - PLANTING - TILLAGE GRAIN DRYER - LIVESTOCK MACHINERY TRUCK - JD LAWN TRACTOR

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

CO. In order to settle the estate of Bobby Warner, there will be a complete auction on all items listed. AUCTION LOCATION: 11355 90th Street E., Northfield MN. (From Northfield, go east on State Hwy. 19 approx. 3 miles to Rice Co. 42, south on Rice Co. 42 to 90th Street E., east on 90th Street. Watch for signs.)

9:30 A.M.

www.maringauction.com ONLY A 2-HOUR AUCTION - BE ON TIME! Viewing Wednesday, June 21 - Auction Day, 9 A.M. - 6 P.M. No Exceptions!

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where Farm and Family Meetâ&#x20AC;?

CASE IH 5120 2WD - IHC 786 (2) IHC 666 FARMALL M TRACTORS 1992 Case IH 5120 2WD, 5,795 hours, open station, 16.9x34, 540/1000 PTO, 3-pt., 2 hyd., roll bar, 77 hp. SN:1018964 - IHC 786 diesel, 8,100 hours showing, 18.4x34, 65%, good TA, 3-pt., 540/1000 PTO, 2 hyd., (10) front suitcase weights, year round cab.

SN:U009362 - IHC 666 gas, 10,857 hours (newer engine replacement), 15.5x38, 3-pt., 540 PTO, 2 hyd., open station, fenders, good TA, runs good, 2nd owner, SN:U007951 - IHC 666 gas, 6,208 hours, 15.5x38, 3-pt., 2 hyd., 540 PTO, (8) front weights, good TA, 2nd owner. SN:0U008097 - Farmall B tractor, NF, wheel weights Farmall M tractor, NF, 12.4x38 tires, rear wheel weights w/trip bucket loader.

H & S MANURE SPREADER, OTHER LIVESTOCK MACHINERY H & S 175 single axle manure spreader, poly floor, 540 PTO, nice condition - Farm Hand F-81 Feed Master mixer mill, 540 PTO, gear drive - John Deere 24T baler - IHC 1190 haybine, 9â&#x20AC;&#x2122; cut, rubber rolls, 540 PTO - John Deere 640 4-bar hay rake, front dolly wheel Hydraulic livestock trailer, single axle - 7â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x12â&#x20AC;&#x2122; flatbed rack w/hoist & running gear 37â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Bale elevator on transports, 1.5 hp. motor - 3-Pt. bale spear Live & Online Bidding at www.proxibid.com/maringauction

proxibid

055

Cattle

056 Cattle

056 Cattle

WANTED TO BUY: Dairy Black Angus yearling bulls, FOR SALE: Registered Angus bulls, 2 yo & yearlings, three year olds, proven heifers and cows. 320-235bred for well balanced EPD herd, sire. 715-755-3233 2664 & growth, fertility tested.

Miller Angus, Kasson MN. 507-634-4535 Cattle 056 FOR SALE: 25 Limousin semen tested bulls, 2 yr olds & yearlings, Black or Red, FOR SALE: Simmental 2 yr. Miniature Horned Herelow birth weight, super Sim/Angus yrl bulls, ford Bull For Sale. Calm growth.

John Goelz, Polled, Black & Red, segentle disposition, raised as Franklin, MN 507-557-8394 men checked, ready to pet, good home only, $1,200. work.

Grass-Lunning Call or text 920-765-1041 Simm. LeRoy, MN 55951, FOR SALE: Angus bulls Bob:507-438-9007, yearlings & 2 yr olds. Stout, FOR SALE OR LEASE Luke:507-440-6386 heavy muscled bulls w/ exc REGISTERED BLACK glsimmentals@gmail.com performance genetics. FerANGUS Bulls, 2 year old & tility & performance tested. yearlings; bred heifers, Beef Polled calving ease, club calves & Kellogg MN Sullivan Angus. Registered Shorthorn Bulls For Sale.

507-527-1034 balance performance. Al 13 yearling bulls & 4 1 1/2- 2 sired. In herd improvement yr old bulls. Great opportuprogram. J.W. Riverview FOR SALE: Red Angus nity to obtain very high Angus Farm Glencoe, MN yearling bulls, $1,700quality genetics & calving 55336 Conklin Dealer 320$1,800; Oehler Red Angus ease.

Bulls working for you 864-4625 507-931-5758. this season. 13 are AI sired, 4 are ET calves. Delivery may be available. Call 715202-0594 or email to: ksshorthorns@gmail.com GLEANER R50 COMBINE & GLEANER

056

Registered Texas Longhorn breeding stock, cows, heifers or roping stock, top blood lines. 507-235-3467 Semen tested Black Angus bulls, sired by Our Sons Of, 10X10, Mainstream and Providence. www.teamjsi.com 715-483-3866 Sim Angus & Simmental bulls, long yearlings & coming 2 yr olds, Black Polled & easy calving, 45+ years breeding background. Can Deliver. Riverside Simmentals Gerald Polzin, Cokato, MN. 320-286-5805 WANT TO BUY: Butcher cows, bulls, fats & walkable cripples; also horses, sheep & goats. 320-235-2664 Yearling Registered Charolais bulls. Well bred, guaranteed. 715-556-0677

AGCO HUGGER CORN HEAD 1988 Gleaner R50 combine, 3,802 hours, 24.5x 32 tires, hydro, spreader, bin extension, Deutz diesel engine SN: R50G0294118989 - Gleaner Agco Hugger corn head, 6-row 30â&#x20AC;?, dual, PTO, light kit SN063017086

MATT MARING

Saturday, June 24, 2017

Dairy

ÂŽ

GOOD PLANTING & TILLAGE John Deere 27-stalk shredder, 15â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, 1000 PTO - IHC Vibra Shank field digger, 16.5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, 3-bar harrow - John Deere 7000 planter, 4-row, 38â&#x20AC;?, monitor, insect. box., markers - IHC 720 plow, 4x18s, auto reset, 3-pt. - IHC 710 plow, 3x18s, auto reset, 3-pt. - IHC 710 plow, 4x18s, auto reset, 3-pt. - Glenco 14â&#x20AC;&#x2122; field cult. - IHC model 37 disk, 12.5â&#x20AC;&#x2122; hyd. lift - John Deere 6-row, 30â&#x20AC;? row crop cult., 3-pt. - Brady 2-row stalk chopper, 540 PTO. FARM FANS GRAIN DRYER W/WET CORN HOLDING BIN GRAIN AUGERS - GRAIN WAGONS Farm Fans grain dryer, model AB-8TT, 1-230 electric motor, LP gas, 4,351 hours, SN:78229, sells with Lowery 800 bushel holding bins - Farm King 8â&#x20AC;?x51â&#x20AC;&#x2122; grain auger, 10 hp. electric motor Buhler Farm King 8â&#x20AC;? x 31â&#x20AC;&#x2122; auger, PTO drive - MN flair box, model 130 w/6-ton gear - American 150 bushel gravity box w/gear.

1986 CHEV. C-70 SINGLE AXLE TRUCK - JD LA145 GARDEN TRACTOR - OTHER MACHINERY John Deere LA145 Garden Tractor, 22 hp., hydro transmission, 48â&#x20AC;? deck, 447 hours - 1986 Chev. C-70 single axle truck, gas, V8, 5x2 speed trans., 22.5 rear rubber, with 16â&#x20AC;&#x2122; steel box and hoist, 42,100 miles - Loftness 7â&#x20AC;&#x2122; snowblower, 3-pt., 540 PTO - 3-Pt. 86â&#x20AC;? rear blade - Arps 3-pt. blade, 84â&#x20AC;? 550 Gal. fuel tank w/electric pump.

TERMS: Cash, check, all major credit cards. All sales final; all items sell as-is, where-is. All items must be paid for the same day as the auction. Photo I.D. required.

For more photos go to www.maringauction.com

Robert (Bobby) Warner Estate We Sell the Earth & Everything On It.

MATT MARING AUCTION CO. INC. PO Box 37, Kenyon, MN 55946 Â&#x2021; 0DWW 0DULQJ /LF Â&#x2021; .HYLQ 0DULQJ /LF Â&#x2021; $GDP (QJHQ /LF Â&#x2021;

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;13 Case SR250 skid steer loader, cab with heat and air, 2 speed, hyd. coupler, E-H controls, 78â&#x20AC;? bucket, 288 hours............................... $31,500 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;16 JD 8601 RSX Gator, power steering, 28 hours, warranty ...................................... $8,500 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;13 Case 621F XR, wheel loader, JRB coupler, 3.0 cubic yard bucket, 3rd valve, new 20.5R25 radial tires, 4730 hours, just throught service program..................................................... $74,000 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;15 New Holland 340, big square baler, single axle, standard baler, 4500 bales ............... $55,000 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;13 CIH Magnum 235, 320/90R54 duals, 540/1000 PTO, 2235 hours, powertrain warranty till 9-2017 ................................................... $89,500 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;11 CIH Magnum 190, powershift, 380/90R54 duals, New 380/80R38 fronts, front wgts., 540/1000 PTO, 3pt w/quick hitch, just through service program, 3448 hours, powertrain warranty till 02/28/2018 ............................................ $65,000

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AgDirect Financing Available â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

Keith Bode Fairfax, MN 55332 507-381-1291 www.keithbodeeq.com

‘13 JD 670, 1294 eng/647 sep. hrs., premium cab, ‘05 JD 7420, MFWD, 467 hrs., cab, air, IVT, tranny, HID lights, Hitorque VSD, chopper, contourmaster, 3 pt., 540/1000 PTO w/ JD 741 self leveling loader, less bucket, 18.4x42” tires.............................$62,000 520x42” duals ..............................................$167,000

060

FOR SALE: Sydell corral system G, like new, $1,700.

906-466-2535 or 906-553-5334 Swine

065

Compart's total program features superior boars & open gilts documented by BLUP technology. Duroc, York, Landrace & F1 lines.

Terminal boars offer leanness, muscle, growth. Maternal gilts & boars are productive, lean, durable.

All are stress free & PRRS free. Semen also available through Elite Genes A.I. Make 'em Grow! Comparts Boar Store, INC. Toll Free: 877-441-2627 FOR SALE: Yorkshire, & Hampshire, Duroc Hamp/Duroc boars, also gilts. Excellent selection.

Raised outside. Exc herd health. No PRSS. Delivery avail. 320-760-0365 Cars & Pickups

080

'03 Chev Silverado 1500 Reg Cab, Pewter. 100,967 mi, 8-cylinder, Auto, 2WD. Nice truck, $6,900.

Call (641) 590-1102 FOR SALE: 1965 Chevrolet 396 motor, 5-2 trans, power steering, air brakes, tag axle, 18' box w/ a head lift hoist, good rubber, nice older truck, $3,900. 763-218-2797 Miscellaneous

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One call does it all!

With one phone call, you can place your classified ad in The Land, Farm News, AND The Country Today.

Call The Land for more info @ 507-345-4523 • 800-6574665.

PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS New pumps & parts on hand. Call Minnesota's largest distributor HJ Olson & Company 320974-8990 Cell – 320-212-5336 REINKE IRRIGATION Sales & Service New & Used For your irrigation needs 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073 WANT MORE READERS TO SEE YOUR AD??

Expand your coverage area!

The Land has teamed up with Farm News, and The Country Today so you can do just that! Place a classified ad in The Land and have the option of placing it in these papers as well.

More readers = better results! Call The Land for more information. 507-3454523 • 800-657-4665 Winpower Sales & Service Reliable Power Solutions Since 1925 PTO & automatic Emergency Electric Generators. New & Used Rich Opsata-Distributor 800-343-9376

• 5/8” drum roller wall thickness • 42” drum diameter • 4”x8” frame tubing 3/8” thick • Auto fold

MANDAKO

FOR THE BEST DEAL ORDER NOW!

12’-60’ LONG ROLLERS

GREENWALD FARM CENTER Greenwald, MN • 320-987-3177 14 miles So. of Sauk Centre

REDUCED PRICES! TRACTORS ’15 Case IH MX250, 300 hrs ........................ $179,500 ’07 Case IH MX305, 3000 hrs ...................... $114,900 ’12 Case IH MX315, 1021 hrs ...................... $174,900 ’03 Case IH STX375 Quad, 500 Auto Steer, 3100 hrs.... $149,900 ’04 Case IH STX425, 7010-38 duals 70%, 3750 hrs ... $114,900 ’11 Case IH STX485 Quadtrac, 2300 hrs ...................... $199,900 ’91 Case IH 7140, 18.4-46 duals, nice ..................... $58,500

☺

PLANTERS Case IH 1200, 16-30 Pivot Bulk Fill .................................. $46,900 Case IH 1250, 16-30 Bulk Fill scale .............................. $59,900 Case IH Tigermate II, 32’ 4 bar .............................. $19,900 Case IH RMX370, 28’ cusion 3 bar .............................. $26,900 COMBINES Case IH 2188, duals, nice ................................ $36,900 Case IH 2366, 2300 hrs., duals .............................. $83,500 Case IH 7010, 1075 hrs ...................... $139,900

‘13 JD 660, 1180 eng/892 sep hrs., cm, HID ‘13 JD 6170R, Cab, IVT trans, MFWD, 859 hrs., w/H380 loader, 3 pt., 540/1000 PTO, ..........$116,000 lights, high torque USD chopper, 520x38” duals ..............................................$157,500 ‘09 NH 6070, Bi-directional, 3543 hrs., cab air, w/NH ‘00 JD 9650TS, 3611 eng./2645 sep. hrs., chopper, 84lb loader, 3 pt., 540/1000 PTO...................$62,500 20.8x38” duals ...............................................$55,000 ‘12 Kubota M110, Cab, MFWD, 240 hrs., w/Kubota LA1953 loader, 3 pt., 540/1000 PTO .............$55,000 ‘11 CIH 7120, 871 eng./732 sep. hrs., rock trap, chopper, 520x42” duals ...............................$149,000 ‘11 Challenger, MT 575 B, MFWD, 2242 hrs., ‘09 NH CR9060, 2400 eng./1800 sep. hrs., tracker, ML98 loader ...................................................$75,000 chopper, 520x42” duals .................................$72,500 ‘94 FH 6640 SLE, MFWD, cab, loader ..............$25,000 ‘04 NH CR970, 3138 eng./2186 sep. hrs., tracker, chopper, chaff spreader, 520x42” duals........$52,000 ‘14 CIH 380 MAG row trac cut, 290 hrs., 4 hyd., big ‘11 Claas Lexior, 740, 1466 eng/899 sep hrs., 4x4 pump, 3 pt., 1000 PTO, 24” tracks, completely 520x42” duals ..............................................$109,000 auto guidence equipped, suspended front, 24” belts .......................................................$195,000

TRACK TRACTORS

TRUCKS

‘13 CIH, 380 MAG Row Trac 1178 hrs., luxury cab, full ‘02 Int 4900 DT466, auto 3060p, tandem, 666k, can have PTO, 15 1/2’ cab to axle .......................$14,500 guidance, suspended front, 24” tracks, 120 inch spacing 3 pt., 4 hyd. Hiflow, PTO ................$180,000 ‘04 Int 4300, bucket truck, 40’ reach, Auto, 219k ................................................................$26,000 ‘14 CIH, 340 MAG Row Trac 287 hrs., luxury cab, suspended frt axle, 18” tracks, 76” spacing, 6 hyd ‘12 Freightliner Sprinter 3500, 15’ body, DLS, remotes, 3 pt., 1000 PTO, full guidance......$195,000 Auto ................................................................$15,900

4WD TRACTORS

‘09 Freightliner Columbia II, auto shift, 410 hp., 3 axle ..............................................................$28,000 ‘12 JD 9410R, 1411 hrs., 1000 PTO, 4 hyd., HID lights, 520x46” tires & duals ...................................$169,000 ‘04 Freightliner MII, bucket truck, 40’ reach, Auto, 188k ........................................................................ $0 ‘10 JD 9330 1239 hrs., 1000 PTO, 4hyd powershift w/ diff lock, 480x50” tires & duals, 85% .............$155,00 ‘12 Pete 587 Cummins, 13 spd, 72” sleeper, 406k ................................................................$40,000 ‘11 NH T9.390, 905 hrs., powershift, diff lock, HID ‘09 Columbia, 120 Day Cab Detroit, 105 gal, lights 480x50” tires & duals .........................$128,000 423k ................................................................$29,000 ‘09 CIH 385, 3071 hrs., 520x46” .....................$105,000 ‘96 FL80 Cummins, Allison Auto w/ PTO 4x4, 88k ..................................................................$26,000 ‘14 CIH 260, 605 hrs., MFWD luxury cab, 4 hyd, 3 pt hitch, 1000 PTO, 480x50” duals ..................$118,000 ‘12 JD 750K, 1316 hrs., cab air, Su blade ‘12 CIH 260, 1784 hrs., Deluxe cab, 19-spd., PS, with tilt ..........................................................$125,000 susp. front axle, 3 pt., 4 hyd., Hi-Flow, 1000 PTO, ‘04 Cat D610XL, 6659 hrs., w/ cab air, 6 way blade, & 480x50” duals, MFWD .................................$110,000 winch ..............................................................$85,000 ‘13 CIH 260, 577 hrs., PS, 3 pt., 540/1000 PTO, 4 hyd., big pump, 420x46” tires & duals.....$115,000 ‘08 CatD4K LGP, 2180 hrs., 6 way blade ............$77,000

ROW CROP TRACTORS

CRAWLER DOZERS

‘10 JD 850J LGP, 2926 hrs., cab air, 6 way ‘03 CIH MX210, 5550 hrs., 3 pt., 1000 PTO, 4 hyd., 380x46” tires & duals .....................................$59,000 blade ..............................................................$99,500 ‘08 Case 1150k, 1265 hrs., cab air, 6 way ‘13 CIH 290, 1250 hrs., 3 pt., PTO, big pump, 480 front duals, 480x50” .....................................$119,000 blade ..............................................................$77,000

EXCAVATORS

‘13 NH 8360, 940 hrs., MFWD, leather seats, 4 hyd., 1000 PTO, auto steer complete, 480x50” rear ‘13 JD 290 GLC, 2271 hrs., w/ aux hyd., hyd. Thumb, tires & duals .................................................$119,000 50” bkt ..........................................................$145,000 ‘13 NH T8.300, 801 hrs., MFWD, 4 hyd., 3 pt., ‘15 Komotsu PC, 138 US LC-10, 1038 hrs., 30” bkt, like 540/1000 PTO, 480x50” tires & duals .........$105,000 new machine ..................................................$99,000

LOADER BACKHOES

RABE INTERNATIONAL, INC

‘11 Versatile 305, MFWD, 690 hrs., 4 hyd., 3 pt., 1000 PTO, HID lights, front wts, fender ..................$99,000 ‘14 Volvo BL70B, 724 hrs., cab air, pilot controls, hydraulic thumb, xhoe ...................................$57,500

1205 Bixby Road (across from fairgrounds), Fairmont, MN 507-235-3358 or 800-813-8300 • Get the Rabe Advantage

LARSON IMPLEMENTS 5 miles east of Cambridge, MN on Hwy. 95 763-689-1179

Case IH and CNH Capital are registered trademarks of CNH America LLC

Visit our Web Site at http://www.caseih.com

29

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Sheep

COMBINES

‘13 JD 660, 4WD, 1598/1066, 2630 display, ‘04 JD 7320 Cab, MFWD, 16 spd., 741 loader, 6316 hrs...................................................................$57,000 contourmaster chopper, 520x42” duals ......$155,000

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

LOADER TRACTORS

057

Miniature stallion pony for sale. 6 years old. Gentle, foals on site, $300/OBO. Call 715-667-3239

Look at our Web site for pictures & more listings www.larsonimplements.com

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

Horse

First Your e for Choic ieds! if s s Cla

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THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

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Livestock, Machinery, Farmland... you name it! People will buy it when they see it in The Land!

To submit your classified ad use one of the s 2EACH OVER

following options: readers Phone: 1-800-657-4665 or 507-345-4523 Mail to: The Land Classifieds s 'ET MORE COVERAGE THE FREE PRESS South Central P.O. Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56002 Minnesotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Daily s 3TART YOUR AD IN News Source Fax to: 507-345-1027 The Land Email: theland@TheLandOnline.com s !DD MORE INSERTIONS Online at: www.thelandonline.com DEADLINE: Friday at 5:00 p.m. for the following Friday edition. Plus! Look for your classified ad in the e-edition.

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The ad prices listed are based on a basic classified line ad of 25 words or less. Ads running longer than 25 words will incur an added charge.

CHECK ONE: F Announcements F Employment F Real Estate F Real Estate Wanted F Housing Rentals F Farm Rentals F Merchandise F Antiques & Collectibles F Auctions F Hay & Forage Equipment

F F F F F F F F F F F

Material Handling Bins & Buildings Grain Handling Equip.

Farm Implements Tractors Harvesting Equipment Planting Equipment Tillage Equipment Machinery Wanted Spraying Equipment Wanted

F F F F F F F F F F F

Farm Services Fencing Material Feed, Seed, Hay Fertilizer & Chemicals Poultry Livestock Dairy Cattle Horses Exotic Animals Sheep

F F F F F F F F F

Goats Swine Pets & Supplies Livestock Equipment Cars & Pickups Industrial & Construction Trucks & Trailers Recreational Vehicles Miscellaneous

NOTE: Ad will be placed in the appropriate category if not marked.

Now... add a photo to your classified line ad for only $10.00!!

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CIRC PAPER(S) ADDED (circle all options you want): FN CT FP FOR EACH PAPER AND EACH TIME ISSUES X STANDOUT OPTIONS (THE LAND only) $2.00 per run: F Bold F Italic F Underline F 7EB % MAIL LINKS F Photo (THE LAND only) $10.00 per run: oto (THE LAND only) $10.00 per run: This is NOT for businesses. Please call The Land to place line ads.

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~ NEW EQUIPMENT/BIG INVENTORY ~ Port-A-Hut Shelters:

â&#x20AC;˘ All Steel Shelters for Livestock & Other Uses

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Feeder Wagons - Several Models Self-locking Head Gates â&#x20AC;˘ HD Feeder Panels Self-locking Bunk Feeders Tombstone Horse & Horned Cattle Feeders Skid Feeders â&#x20AC;˘ Bunk Feeders Bale Wagons â&#x20AC;˘ Bale Thrower Racks Flat Racks for big sq. bales Self-locking Feeder Wagons Fenceline Feeders Several Types of Bale Feeders

Smidley Equipment:

__________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ = __________________________________

Name _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where Farm and Family Meetâ&#x20AC;?

Get Results! Sell it FAST when you advertise in The Land!

Call us today at 507-345-4523 or 800-657-4665

Your Place day! o Ad T

City ________________________________________________________ State ______________________________ Zip _______________

â&#x20AC;˘ Steer Stuffers â&#x20AC;˘ Hog Feeders â&#x20AC;˘ Hog Huts â&#x20AC;˘ Calf Creep Feeders â&#x20AC;˘ Lamb & Sheep Feeders â&#x20AC;˘ Cattle & Hog Waterers â&#x20AC;˘ Hog & Sheep Scales â&#x20AC;&#x201C; We Rebuild Smidley Cattle & Hog Feeders â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

Sioux Equipment: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Gates â&#x20AC;˘ Calving Pens â&#x20AC;˘ Haymax Bale Feeders Cattle & Feeder Panels â&#x20AC;˘ Head Gates Loading Chute â&#x20AC;˘ Hog Feeders Squeeze Chutes & Tubs â&#x20AC;˘ Calf Warmer

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Rock Buckets â&#x20AC;˘ Grapple Forks â&#x20AC;˘ Manure Forks Bale Spears â&#x20AC;˘ Hi-Volume Buckets & Pallet Forks Bale Transports & Feeder Wagons, 16â&#x20AC;&#x2122;-34â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Adult & Young Stock Feeders & Bale Feeders Land Levelers

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Squeeze Chutes - Head Gates Large & Small Animal Tip Chutes Open Bar Corral Tub Round & Square Calving Pens Tub & Alley Chutes â&#x20AC;˘ Crowding Tubs

Notch Equipment:

S-I Feeders: â&#x20AC;˘ Mid Size and Full Size Bunks â&#x20AC;˘ One-Sided Juniors and Adult Bunks [Arrow Front 4-Wheel Feeders, 12â&#x20AC;&#x2122;-36â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;] $500 rebate â&#x20AC;˘

DR POWER EQUIPMENT

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

GT (Tox-O-Wik) Grain Dryers, 350-800 bu.

150 Bu. Steel Calf Creep w/wheels Bohlman Concrete Waterers Livestock Equipment by Vernâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mfg. Jari Sickle mowers EZ Trail Wagons Boxes & Bale Baskets Taylor-way 3-way Dump Trailer Sitrex Wheel Rakes Skidsteer Brush Cutters (Hayhopper) Bale Feeders Caltel Hutches & Animal Barns R&C Poly Bale Feeders Goat, Sheep & Calf Feeders Ameriag Poly Mineral Feeders ~ Lorenz & Renegade Snowblowers ~ Special Prices

We can also sell your equipment for you on consignment

Card # _________________________________________________ Exp. Date_______________________

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CHECK We do not issue refunds.

Signature _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADVERTISING NOTICE: Please check your ad the first week it runs. We make every effort to avoid errors by checking all copy, but sometimes errors are missed. Therefore, we ask that you review your ad for correctness. If you find a mistake, please call (507) 345-4523 immediately so that the error can be corrected. We regret that we cannot be responsible for more than one weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s insertion if the error is not called to our attention. We cannot be liable for an amount greater than the cost of the ad. THE LAND has the right to edit, reject or properly classify any ad. Each classified line ad is separately copyrighted to THE LAND. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

~ USED EQUIPMENT ~

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27 1/2 Case IH cultivator w/ harrow, VG 72â&#x20AC;? hyd skidsteer, Rotary Cutter 72â&#x20AC;? NH roto tiller Kubota GF1800 DSL 4wd, front deck, 52â&#x20AC;? mower JD#33 Manure Spreader reconditioned, new floor S&H 150 Bu. 2-Wheel Bunk Wagon Roto King Round Bale Processor SS Bale basket & bale racks

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Used Smidley cattle feeders & hog feeders Hyd. Post Pounder 3pt backhoe Misc cattle equip Ginder Mixer

For-Most Livestock Equipment: Phone _________________________________________________ # of times_______________________

ÂŽ

~ WANTED TO BUY ~

Lot - Hwy 7 E

Office Location - 305 Adams Street Hutchinson, MN 55350

320-587-2162, Ask for Larry

Please visit our website:

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thelandonline.com

THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

ADVERTISER LISTING 1 Stop Realty..............................27 Pride Solutions..........................28 Anderson Seeds ........................22 Property Brokers ......................25 Big Gain........................................6 Pruess Elevator ..........................31 Blethen Gage & Krause ............3 Rabe International....................29 Broskoff Structures ....................7 Rush River Steel & Trim ........23 C & C Roofing ............................5 Schweiss Inc ..............................30 Carl Myers..................................24 SI Feeder ....................................18 Charleston Orwig ......................4 Smith's Mill ..............................31 Courtland Waste........................19 Sorensen Sales & Rentals ......30 Curt's Truck ................................11 Southwest MN K-Fence ..........12 Diers Ag & Trailer Sales............6 Steffes Group ......................24, 27 Doda USA ..................................23 Syntex............................................5

Duncan Trailers ........................31 Wahl Spray Foam ......................10 Freudenthal Dairy & MFG ....21 Walker Custom Siding ..............6 GEHL ..........................................20 Wingert Realty ..........................28 Greenwald Farm Center ..........29 Hanson Silo Company ..............8

COUNTY FAIR

Jensen Auctions ........................26 Benton County Fair ..................F6 K & S Millwrights ..............10, 22 Blue Earth County Fair............F8 Kannegiesser Truck Sales ......13 Brown County Fair ..................F4 Keith Bode..................................28 Fairbault County Fair ..............F8 Kerkhoff Auction......................27 Kandiyohi County Fair............F6 Larson Implement ..............29, 30 Nicollet County Fair ................F2 Mages Auction Service ......24, 25 Nobles County Fair ..................F2 Maring Auction ..................25, 28 Rice County Fair ......................F7 Mid-American Auction......24, 27 Steele County Fair ....................F3

‘12 White 8186, 16-30 w/liq. fert. ................... $59,000 White 8222, 12-30 w/liq. fert. ......................... $42,000 NEW Massey GC1705 w/loader ............................ Call ‘11 White 8516 CFS, Loaded ......................... $85,000 NEW Massey 7722 FWA CVT ................................ Call White 6122, 12-30 .......................................... $12,000 NEW NH T4.75 w/loader ........................................ Call NEW NH T9.645, w/Smart Trac ............................. Call NEW Versatile 310, FWA.............................. $157,900 NEW Fantini chopping cornhead .......................... Call NH T8.275, 495 hrs ...................................... $155,000 Fantini Pre-Owned 8-30 chopping NH 8870, FWA................................................ $49,000 cornhead ............................................................. Call ‘12 NH T9.390, approx. 850 hrs. .................. $180,000 ‘10 Gleaner R76, Loaded ............................. $195,000 ‘09 NH TD 5050 w/loader, 1300 hrs............... $36,000 ‘01 Gleaner R72 ............................................. $72,500 ‘08 NH 8010 ................................................. $114,500 ‘03 Gleaner R65 ........................................... $105,000 ‘05 CIH MX210 1700 hrs ................................ $98,500 Gleaner 3308 chopping corn heads ..................... Call ‘06 Buhler 2210 w/ auto steer........................ $92,500 Allis 180 D .........................................................$7,250 ‘12 Challenger MT 665D .............................. $155,000 New Hesston & NH Hay Tools - ON HAND ‘10 Versatile 435, 1050 hrs .......................... $150,000 Allis 185 w/loader .............................................$9,500 ‘85 White 4-270, nice ..................................... $29,500 NEW Salford RTS Units ......................................... Call NEW Salford Plows................................................ Call NEW Unverferth Seed Tenders ............................. Call ‘03 Sunflower, 32’, 5-bar spike ...................... $18,000 NEW Westfield Augers .......................................... Call Sunflower 4630, 11-shank, Demo ......................... Call NEW REM 2700 Vac. ............................................. Call DMI Tiger Mate II 40.5 w/ 4 bar ..................... $29,500 NEW Hardi Sprayers.............................................. Call DMI 530B ............................................................... Call NEW Riteway Rollers ............................................. Call DMI/NH 775, 7-shank .................................... $23,500 NEW Lorenz Snowblowers .................................... Call ‘12 JD 3710, 10-bottom ................................. $35,000 NEW Batco Conveyors .......................................... Call ‘08 JD 3710, 10-bottom ................................. $20,000 NEW Brent Wagons & Grain Carts ........................ Call ‘08 JD 2210, 44.5’ w/3-bar harrow ................ $29,500 NEW E-Z Trail Seed Wagons ................................. Call NEW Rock Buckets & Pallet Forks ........................ Call ‘07 NH 170 w/ cab ......................................... $18,900 REM 2700, Rental .................................................. Call NEW NH Skidsteers - On Hand ............................. Call Pre-Owned Snowblowers, 7’-9’ ............................. Call NH 230 w/ cab & air ....................................... $37,900 Pre-Owned Sprayers ............................................. Call

COMBINES

HAY TOOLS

MISCELLANEOUS

TILLAGE

SKIDSTEERS

All Equipment available with Low Rate Financing

NEW White Planters .............................................. Call ‘04 Kinze 3600 16-30 ..................................... $42,000

NK Clerking ..............................27 Watonwan County Fair............F4

SMITHS MILL IMPLEMENT Hwy. 14, 3 miles West of Janesville, MN

P.O. Box 3169 - 418 S 2nd Street Mankato, MN 56002 theland@TheLandOnline.com

Phone (507) 234-5191 or (507) 625-8649 Mon. - Fri. 7:30-5:00 • Sat. 7:30-Noon www.smithsmillimp.com

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

PLANTERS

Mustang ....................................17 Waseca County Fair ..................F5

Olsen Truck Service ..................7

<< www.TheLandOnline.com >>

Double B Manufacturing ....8, 12 Wagner Truck ............................16

USED TRACTORS

This week’s Back Roads is the work of The Land Correspondent Tim King. Photos by Jan King.

Get thee to a rookery

“Where Farm and Family Meet”

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THE LAND, JUNE 16, 2017

32

E

gret rookeries are rare. Indeed, there are only 23 in Minnesota, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Most of those are located in fairly inaccessible places. Egrets are, after all, wild creatures, right!? Wild creatures prefer to stay clear of humans, right? Perhaps! But the egret rookery at Grotto Lake may challenge your preconceived notions of wildness.

Imagine that you are an office worker in Fergus Falls. Imagine further that you’ve grown a little weary of your fellow workers and that you’d like to have some peace and quiet over lunch hour. It’s a lovely day so you grab your sack lunch, jump into your car, and drive a few blocks to Adams City Park.

It’s in a residential area close to downtown. You pull into the parking lot and park so you have a full windshield view of the busy rookery on a small island in Grotto Lake. It’s barely 30 feet away, so you roll the window down, grab a sandwich, and listen to the birds hiss, crackle, and clack. It’s a little like your office but somehow more soothing, especially with the sunshine warming your face.

Fergus Falls, Minn.

Office workers, school children, bird watchers, and even farmers on a lark can not only watch snowy white Great Egrets up close but also Cormorants, Black Crowned Night Herons, the occasional Blue Winged Teal, and a waddling Mallard or two.

Here are some descriptions: The Great Egret is also known as the Common Egret. It is about 3 feet tall and has white feathers, a long yellow beak, and long black legs that it uses for wading in the water while hunting for small fish and frogs. It was hunted close to extinction in the late 19th century because women just loved its tail feathers for their hats. Hunting was banned and it is not threatened with extinction now.

Black Crowned Night Herons are about 2 feet tall with a long black bill and yellow legs. It has red eyes, a black cap, blue-gray back and wings, and a white neck and breast. It is less common in the rookery than its cousin the Great Egret.

Misguided citizens nearly clubbed the orange billed and iridescent feathered Double Crested Cormorants into oblivion. They believed they ate too many fish. But, thanks to the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, there are about 30,000 of them in Minnesota.

Grab a sandwich, jump in the car, and go to Adams Park to see a few of them. v