THE LAND ~ February 21, 2020 ~ Southern Edition

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Februar y 21, 2020 Februar y 28, 2020

To the Rescue!

Man’s best friend sniffs out people in peril

PLUS: Reports from the MN Ag Expo Crop insurance sign-up by March 15 A new book from Barbara Kodet Mages

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Pests give no soybeans rest P.O. Box 3169 418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56002 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XLIV ❖ No. 4 32 pages, 1 section plus supplements

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COLUMNS Opinion Farm and Food File The Back Porch Cooking With Kristin In The Garden Mielke Market Weekly Farm Programs Marketing Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads

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Always a good visit, Bruce Potter, longthese larvae are inside the plant. We put time plant pathologist at the Southwest cages in some infested fields last year.

Research and Outreach Center in We had pretty good evidence the larvae Lamberton, Minn. was willing to share were overwintering in the soil. When we some time (even though I arrived one day checked these traps we found the first early for the 2020 Winter Crops and Soils generation of adults in late June. Then Day which was Feb. 5 at Lamberton and we moved the cages into infected soybean Feb. 6 at Luverne, Minn. Yes, we ag jourfields and identified the second and nalists get confused too! third-generation moths. So it’s apparent these adult moths emerge from the soils LAND MINDS With Potter, a question-and-answer of infected fields. approach works well; because Bruce will

By Dick Hagen talk about most any subject I’ve expeThe Land: So that suggests a likely rienced. So hang on … here we go: infestation again this spring?

The Land: What is this soybean gall Potter: I’m hoping not. It’s been midge concern? around a few years and I don’t see any evidence it’s disappearing. This year the soybean check-off is Potter: It was first confirmed in Minnesota in going to support a bigger survey to see just how 2018 in the southwest part of the state. Last year widespread this pest already might be in the Upper we found quite a few more infestations.

Midwest. Also, where damage is more severe, we The Land: What’s its origin? can pick up some clues if certain environmental conditions favor this pest.

Potter: We don’t know if it’s a native insect or it was introduced from some other country. From yield The Land: Would the mostly wet and cool condimaps we have some indication it might have been tions of last season favor this pest? here in 2016 and earlier.

Potter: We can’t say with certainty; but we do The Land: What do you see? know that last season had above-average precipitaPotter: Wilted and dying plants with infestations tion. This occurrence dates back to 2012, and especially the last three years. So there might be some worst at the edge of the field. Some larger plants will break off at the lower stem where the little fly ‘wet weather’ syndrome relates to this disease but larvae are infesting. They’re underneath that outer we don’t know. And it definitely survives Minnesota layer of skin; so if you peel back the epidermis and winters. first layer of stem tissue, you’ll see the larvae. They The Land: What is your prognostication on disrupt that inner tissue. The plant gets corkyweather for the start of the 2020 season? looking or dried looking. You’ll see a discolored Potter: Meteorologists are speculating a wetterarea on the outside of the plant’s skin. Between the than-normal spring. But that doesn’t suggest more green and the infected tissue, you’ll see almost a pest problems this spring. We haven’t had a hard black border to it. That’s what we key on in our enough winter to curb corn rootworms. A lot of the surveys. problems we had last year in soybeans where two The Land: So far, how much penetration has insects that migrate into the state: thistle caterpiloccurred in Minnesota? lars and green clover worms. If you have a lot of southerly rain events tracking into our state, that Potter: First infestation we diagnosed was in usually is a good corridor for insects to migrate in Rock County — adjoining both Iowa and South also. However, seems to me we’re about due for a Dakota. Also last year, we picked up infected fields dry spring. Once we get past our state high school around the Montevideo area and other counties basketball tournaments, I’ve got a request in for no along the Minnesota River. So far it’s in that westrain until sometime in May. Then, once planted, ern area of soybean production: western Iowa, maybe an inch a week. (Potter doesn’t claim any northwest Missouri, eastern South Dakota and accuracy on his predictions — at least not in the western Minnesota. year he makes them. But he’s willing to trivialize The Land: At this stage, how do we control soyon weather just like the rest of us.) bean midge gall?

The Land: Are soybean aphids a declining issue?

Potter: We don’t. We use soybean check-off dollars Potter: The last few years we’ve had relatively to help fund these issues. Nebraska and Iowa have low incidents … for a couple of reasons. The winter likely done more research than anyone else. So far, of 2018-19 was severely cold. That might have nothing seems to work. Insecticides by themselves knocked them back a little. But I think the bigger aren’t working; seed treatments don’t work. So at this stage it’s confusing. Soybean aphids — once we reason is the late soybean planting of the past few seasons. They’re having a hard time finding soyfound out you can control (them) with insecticides beans to colonize when they want to come off buck— was relatively easy. Also, we haven’t discovered thorn shrubbery. Food quality for these buggers is a any resistance in particular varieties; so there appears to be no genetic linkage. The problem is See LAND MINDS, pg. 7

OPINION

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Can America avoid ‘another century of degraded water?’

Despite the presidential streams carried away a bilcaucus debacle Iowa hosted lion pounds of nitrogen and Feb. 3, the too old, too-white, 50 million pounds of phosand too-rural (at least to phorus.” pundits who drop by every Whoa … a billion pounds Leap Year) Hawkeye State of wasted N and 50 million still finished its awful week pounds of unusable P? with an act of political courWhat did that cost Iowa age rarely seen in U.S. agrifarmers, as well as the FARM & FOOD FILE culture today. state’s citizens, parks and

By Alan Guebert On Feb. 7, the Des Moines wildlife whose lives depend Register published a on clean water? clear, sharp call to action To date, solutions have on the state’s increasing been short-sighted and “degradation of drinking water” by ineffective. In 2013, the Iowa legislapointing the finger directly at Big Ag ture passed its Nutrient Reduction and its enablers in the Iowa General Strategy, a timid approach its backers Assembly. hoped would pacify public calls to act.

The criticism isn’t new. Several Iowa But “Iowa’s water quality has not newspapers — especially the Pulitzer improved.”

Prize-winning Storm Lake Times — The reason is as obvious now as then: regularly point out how Big Ag and Iowa’s water problems flow from how the state legislature have worked its farmers operate. When the manure together to make political buck passfrom the state’s 25 million hogs and 80 ing on the state’s worsening water million laying hens is added on top of quality Iowa’s unofficial sport. its fertilizer-intense corn-soybean The unusual part of the Register’s monoculture, “Animals are so overpopuop/ed, however, was its writers: four lated in some areas that manure-borne ag experts with impeccable legal and nutrients far exceed crops needs.” scientific credentials few would debate Everyone knows this so, now, “It’s separately and no one should take on time to admit the obvious and collectively. More on each later. regroup.”

Their editorial effort begins with a All must recognize that the state’s punch in the face: “In 2019, Iowa’s livestock industry “has grown far

OPINION

Come visit us March 6 & 7 at the New Ulm Farm City Hub Club’s Annual Farm Show Held at the Civic Center in New Ulm, MN Friday 1-8 pm, Saturday 10am-5pm

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beyond our agencies’ capacity to enforce the weak regulations we have.”

Worse, these regulations mainly rely “on farmer altruism,” or self-sacrifice, that “will require generations to produce measurable results.”

And that’s just not good enough. “We think Iowans deserve better from an industry indemnified by the taxpayer through billions of dollars spent on trade mitigation payments, crop insurance subsidies, and disaster relief.”

And, “Poor water quality is not the result of callous, poorly informed or rogue farmers; rather it is the predictable result of land use policies, vulnerabilities of the corn-soybean-animal confinement scheme, and an economic system tyrannically ruling farmer decisions.”

What needs to be done, the four experts suggest, are forward-leaning actions most farm groups and state legislatures haven’t touched for decades. Now, however, everyone needs to focus on “resilient ways that benefit all Iowans” like taxing fertilizer and feed to trim overuse, monitor manure application to stop over-application, and toughen today’s weak regulatory system.

These long-needed, well informed ideas won’t go away because the ag experts who offer them are Iowa’s

most respected ag experts. One is Neil Hamilton, emeritus professor of law at Drake University and a nationally respected ag law expert. Another is Matt Liebman, a professor of agronomy and the H.A. Wallace Chair for Sustainable Agriculture at Iowa State.

Two University of Iowa faculty members round out the four-person team: Sylvia Secchi specializes in sustainability and public policy; and Chris Jones, a research engineer, writes an authoritative, often provocative blog on Iowa water quality.

The four conclude their piece as they began it: with a clear, indisputable fact.

“The challenge represented by our degraded water is enormous. We know of no problems approaching this magnitude that have been solved through individual actions. Iowans deserve more than meaningless platitudes and dogmatic devotion to voluntary approaches.

“Now is the time to act if we are to avoid another century of degraded water.”

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

Farm couple retreat set for Mankato The Minnesota Dairy Initiative will be hosting a farm couple retreat available to dairy farmers across the state of Minnesota. These farm couple retreats will also be open for other farming entity types.

The retreat will take place March 6-7 in Mankato at the AmericInn by Wyndham (240 Stadium Road, Mankato, MN 56001).

The purpose of the retreat is to have couples come together to enjoy a mini vacation away from the farm with each other. The focuses of the retreat will include communication with your partner, communication with family, relationship building, handling stress, managing personalities, problem solving, action planning, and learning about additional resources. The retreat

will also include opportunities to network with other farming couples, short lecture, group activities, and partner exercises.

The farm couple retreat is limited to the first ten couples who sign up. All lodging, meals, refreshments and materials are included in registration.

Registrations are being covered by the Minnesota Dairy Initiative and other business and organization sponsorships.

Please contact Leah Bischof for a registration form and further details regarding the retreat at (320) 429-0611 or leahbischof@gmail.com.

This article was submitted by University of Minnesota Extension. v

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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Letter: The Golden Rule is employed by many religions To the Editor: Trump is evil, count the ways.

1. Trump is sadistic: he gets pleasure from hurting other people.

2. Trump is conniving: behaves in a way that secretly hurts others or deliberately fails to prevent others from being hurt.

3. Trump is amoral: he does not follow any moral rules and does not care about right and wrong.

4. Trump is perverse: he shows a deliberate determination to behave in a way that most people think is wrong or unacceptable.

5. Trump is ferocious: very aggressive or violent.

6. Trump is tyrannical: he uses his power and authority over people in a unfair and cruel way.

7. Trump is devious: behaves in a dishonest or indirect way, or tricks people, in order to get something.

8. Trump is ruthless: he is determined to get what he wants and does

not care if he hurts other people.

9. Trump is faithless: not loyal, and you cannot rely on or trust him.

10. Trump is treacherous: willing to betray trust, intends to harm you while seeming friendly or loyal.

11. Trump is bloodthirsty: wants to kill or wound, enjoys seeing or hearing about killing and violence.

12. Trump is perfidious: deliberately dishonest and cannot be trusted.

13. Trump is rapacious: he wants more money or goods than he needs or has a right to.

14. Trump is vicious: violent and has a desire to cause pain and suffering.

15. Trump is savage: aggressive, violent, and causing great harm.

16. Trump is degenerate: has moral standards that have fallen to a level that is very low and unacceptable to most people.

17. Trump is bigoted: has strong and unfair feelings of hate towards

OPINION

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Zoroastrianism, “and the rest of the world’s major religions.”

The concept of The Rule is codified in the Code of Hammurabi stele and tablets (1754-1790 BC). One hundred forty-three leaders of the world’s major faiths endorsed the Golden Rule as part of the 1993 “Declaration Toward a Global Ethic.” According to Greg M. Epstein, it is “a concept that essentially no religion misses entirely,” but belief in God is not necessary to endorse it. Simon Blackburn also states that The Golden Rule can be “found in some form in almost every ethical tradition.”

Brad Trom Blooming Prairie, Minn.

Letters to the editor are always welcome.

Send your letters to: Editor, The Land P.O. Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56002 e-mail: editor@thelandonline.com

All letters must be signed and accompanied by a phone number (not for publication) to verify authenticity.

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members of numerous groups and refuses to accept them.

18. Trump is cold-blooded: shows no feelings or pity for other people.

Remember, The Golden Rule is the principle of treating others as you want to be treated. It is a maxim that is found in many religions and cultures. It can be considered an ethic of reciprocity in some religions, although other religions treat it differently.

The idea dates at least to the early Confucian times (551–479 BC), according to Rushworth Kidder, who identifies that this concept appears prominently in Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Taoism,

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Pow-Wow group sheds light on life’s storms After our warm getaway, slowed to a crawl, and at we were at the Tampa airtimes made complete stops. port with other Minnesota What we needed most travelers who were also was a bright light to pierce wondering where they were through the storm and take going to lay their heads us home. But high-beam down to sleep that night. headlights only created a Though we had all thought dizzying effect that made we were going to be home, the situation even more THE BACK PORCH treacherous. those plans were disintegrating with the weather.

By Lenae Bulthuis It’s frustrating and ironic.

A blizzard hit the northAt the moment we are most land. If the airline kept delaying or desperate for light in the storms of fog, canceled our flight, we would end up blizzards and everyday life; conditions sleeping in or near the airport. If the force us to dim the lights. Instead of plane did depart, we would need a obtaining an abundance of light for motel in the Twin Cities because they every step, we only receive enough for were not recommending travel in our the next one. neck of the prairie.

In snowstorms and sickbeds, layAfter a couple of delays, we made it overs and layoffs, in challenging meetto Minneapolis by midnight. The next ings with bankers and bosses, teachers morning, despite the Minnesota and troubled teens, we want out.

Department of Transportation and our Could someone please shine a light adult daughters advising us not to on a no-fail step-by-step plan that gets travel, we did just that. It wasn’t too us through this mess and to the other bad until the final leg of the trip. side where things are comfortable, The combination of snow plus wind pleasant and safe? equaled low-to-zero visibility. We

Sometimes we can pull to the side of the road and wait for the storm to pass. Most times we need to turn the lights low, and do the slow and laborious work of plowing through the storm doing the next right thing, one decision at a time.

While storms are no respecter of persons, for people of faith, we have the promise that we never go alone. Jan Johnson writes, “It may look like the clouds are gathering for a storm, but I can rest because I have God’s companionship and that is enough. Decisions aren’t so harrowing—because I know the light dawns slowly but will come as needed.”

A friend of mine occasionally sends emails saying it is time for a PowWow. We then take turns sharing a Pow (one low point of our day) and a Wow — a high point of our day. It’s a conversation starter some call

“Thumbs Up-Thumbs Down,” “Roses and Thorns,” or “High-Low.” Whatever you call it, it opens the door to meaningful conversations that celebrate what is good, and identify where storms are brewing.

Whether you’re in a season of Wow, Pow, or a unique blend of the two, the truth is we can trust God’s companionship. He is always with you and for you.

To believe it is to receive a double portion of strength. Trust strengthens your heart with hope, and your spine with courage so that can stand firm no matter the scope or sequence of your storm.

Lenae Bulthuis muses about faith, family, and farming from her back porch on her Minnesota grain and livestock farm. Her blog can be found online at www.lenaebulthuis.com and she can be reached via email at lenaesbulthuis@gmail.com. v

New Ulm Hub Club Farm Show set for March 6-7 The 39th annual New Ulm Farm-City Hub Club Farm Show will be held March 6 and 7 at the Civic Center on the fairgrounds in New Ulm, Minn.

Friday’s hours are 1:00 to 8:00 p.m.; Saturday’s hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Three new features have been added to this year’s show: grain bin rescue demonstra­tions on-the-hour each day; at 5:30 p.m. on March 6, Tom Lyden from FOX 9 News will speak about the documentary, “The Last Harvest;” and a community forum takes place at 10 a.m on March 7. Minnesota Ag Commissioner Thom Petersen and Minnesota DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen will take part in the forum, moderated by State Senator Nick Frentz. They will discuss current legislation and answer questions.

Princess Kay of the Milky Way, Amy Kyllo of Byron, will be at the show March 7.

The show’s ex­hibition area contains over 20,000 square feet of display space

that promotes all facets of the agricultural industry. It will feature the latest in farm equipment, technology, and services. Exhibitors include farm equipment suppliers, agricultural lenders, auctioneers, communications companies, ag building suppliers, heating companies, car/truck dealers, government services, and much more.

Everyone attending will be invited to register for door prizes. A children’s door prize drawing will also be held.

Winners need not be present to win, but will be asked to pick up their prizes at a local business.

In conjunction with the club’s Farm Safety show theme, safety glasses and earplugs will be distributed at the show.

For further information, contact Jenny Eckstein at the New Ulm Area Chamber of Com­merce, (507) 233-4302 or jenny@newulm.com.

This article was submitted by the Farm-City Hub Club. v

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Potter: Many farmers are now using consultants LAND MINDS, from pg. 2

little bit better when weather conditions are on the dry side. We’ve put together yield data since 2003.

These trials all had 250 count thresholds. We’ve only had detectable yield loss by controlling aphids 60 percent of the time. My point being that threshold is pretty darn Bruce Potter conservative.

The Land: Are we making genetic progress on aphid resistance?

Potter: There are quite a few aphid-resistant genes now. Ideally, we’d like pyramids of genes because we’ve picked up biotype of aphids that can affect each individual gene. Some could affect even Rag 1 and Rag 2 stack genes. So we need to shepherd those closely. If we can get some resistant varieties into our soybean package, that’s going to help keep those populations knocked back. We don’t have that big snowball effect of aphids anymore.

Pyramids are like similar genes but two different sources.

The Land: In your unbiased opinion, who is producing the most significant research to upgrade the soybean industry these days?

Potter: I would say our academic institutions with soybean breeding these days are more interested in looking at different resistant traits for specific actions in a grower’s field. Soybean cyst nemaRUCTIONS Pleaseisread tode resistance theattached work email of one of our guys; also, aphid resistant lines are a priority. The Industry right now has been highly focused on herbicideREPresistant NAMES ALREADY ONRoundup AD THE LAND 3.7461 x traits. Talking or Dicamba beans, those first varieties may not have the best defensive traits in them. For example, some of those early releases of Dicamba Extend soybeans didn’t have much white mold resistance. You’ve got to be focused on the overall health of your soybean fields.

If you get trapped for just picking varieties for her-

bicide resistance, you could end up with other problems.

The Land: So as science and specialists like you keep adding to the technology skills of soybean farmers, are we tending to make growers overly dependent upon technology and ‘new science’ to bail them out of production issues?

Potter: I’ll be careful here. I wouldn’t say growers are relying too much on us educators and researchers to solve their problems. Farmers have to absorb and integrate a tremendous amount of knowledge each cropping season: land rental agreements; marketing decisions; machinery changes; hybrid selections; pest management choices; etc,.

Yet they seldom have a level playing field that eases their decision-making capabilities. I’m seeing more farmers delegating some of those choices to a consultant who knows these difficult decisions even better. But I think good farmers still need to keep their hand in this decision-making process.

Good farming, I think, always starts with sharpminded individuals who understand the basic concepts of their profession. And that includes being tuned in to consumer trends in organic foods, meatless meats and much of the ‘new thinking’ of people — the consumers of all the foods American farmers generate.

On hemp I can only say watch it carefully! Yes,

creating tremendous interest amongst consumers and producers. Yes, potentially a huge new industry.

But everyone is still in a learning process on all the many aspects of growing the crop, harvesting the crop, handling after harvest, and having genuine markets for the crop — and its many products yet to come. Stay tuned … lots more to come.

The Land: My closing question … with all the brilliant minds here at SWROC, have you yet generated a 100-bushel soybean yield?

Potter: On plots I’ve hit over 80. But I haven’t yet had an individual plot do 100 bushels. Yes, you can ask ‘why not?’ Part of the reason is Minnesota’s location. We don’t have enough season to grow Group IV soybeans here and expect it to mature.

We’re not in Virginia or Mississippi or Florida. Yes, 100 bushel yields have been realized in the deep south, but not up here in Yankee Country where we don’t know if we’ll be planting corn and soybeans May 1st … or shoveling our latest snow. But we’re favored with productive soils, smart farmers and lots of us ‘answer guys and gals’ who want to assist our growers towards 100-bushel soybeans. It’s a great world out here. I’m just thankful to have the opportunity to assist as I can.

Dick Hagen is the staff writer emeritus of The Land. He may be reached at rdhagen35@gmail.com. v

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Sloppy joes will generate lots of compliments (and napkins!) bread of your choice) Sloppy Joes have been a staple in our cooking rota2 cups shredded cheddar cheese tion at the Kveno house for unsalted butter years now. I grew up with In a large non-stick skillet, over medium-high heat, warm the olive my mom opening up a can oil. Add in the ground beef and of Manwich sauce to mix onions; cook until the onions are with the ground beef and softened and no pink remains in the that’s how we sloppy joe’d. beef, about 3 minutes. Drain off all My sorority house at North COOKING the grease. Stir in garlic powder, Dakota State University WITH KRISTIN ketchup, mustard and brown sugar. made “barbeques.” The first Mix well. Season with the salt and time I heard that barbeques

By Kristin Kveno pepper. Stir in the dill pickles and would be served for dinner mix to combine. Transfer sloppy joe mixture to a there I thought it would be some type of meat with barbecue sauce slathered bowl and set aside; cover to keep warm. Wipe out your skillet and return pan to medium heat. Spread on top … but it was just sloppy joes. butter over one side of a slice of bread. Place butThere’s lots of different names and ter side down into the skillet, top with a little ways to prepare sloppy joes; but any cheese, generous amount of sloppy joe mixture, way you slice it, it’s delicious. additional cheese and finish with another buttered I’ve perfected my sloppy joe sauce. It slice of bread, butter side up. Cook in the skillet consists of onion powder, ketchup, mus- until lightly browned on the bottom, about 1-2 tard and brown sugar. All are staples minutes, and flip over. Press down to flatten slightin our kitchen; thus sloppy joes are ly, so the cheese can melt. Continue cooking until always a quick meal during the busy the other side has browned and the cheese has week. Let’s take the regular, but tasty melted, another 1-2 minutes or so. Repeat with sloppy joe and give it some flair. Here remaining sandwiches. Serve right away with are some sloppy joe culinary delights. potato chips or dill pickles on the side. n This sloppy joes recipe encompasses some of my very favorite foods: grilled cheese, pickles Time to add some Philly style to sloppy joes. and sloppy joes. How can you say no to this The peppers, onions and cheese combined with tasty take on the classic sloppy joe? the ground beef to make this simply delicious.

Dill Pickle Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes https://bellyfull.net/2012/09/06/dill-pickle-slop- https://dinnerthendessert.com/philly-cheesepy-joe-grilled-cheese/ steak-sloppy-joes/ 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 pound lean ground beef 1 pound lean ground beef 2 tablespoons butter 1 small sweet onion, diced 1 small yellow onion diced 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 small green bell pepper diced 1/2 cup ketchup 8 ounces brown mushrooms minced 2 teaspoons yellow mustard 2 tablespoons ketchup 2 teaspoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper 1/2 cup diced dill pickle 1 tablespoon cornstarch 8 slices Texas Toast bread (or any thick/sturdy 1 cup beef broth

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8 ounces Provolone Cheese Slices chopped (use 6oz if you don’t want it very cheesy) 6 brioche hamburger buns

n If you’ve never made a Mississippi Roast, then I’m sorry to say you’re missing out on an aweAdd the ground beef to a large cast iron skillet some, tender roast full of flavor. This recipe takes (this browns very well) and brown until a deep those flavors and packs it all in a sloppy joe. brown crust appears before breaking the beef apart.

Mississippi Roast Sloppy Joes Stir the ground beef and brown until a deep crust www.thechunkychef.com/mississippi-roastappears on about 50 or so percent of the beef.

Remove the beef (you can leave the fat) and add the sloppy-joes/ butter and the onions and bell peppers and mushdrizzle of olive oil rooms. Let brown for 1-2 minutes before stirring, 1 pound ground beef then let brown for another 1-2 minutes before 1 medium yellow onion, diced stirring again. Add the beef back into the pan. In a 2 cloves garlic, minced small cup mix the beef broth and cornstarch 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt together add the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper salt, black pepper, beef broth/cornstarch mixture 3 tablespoons sliced pepperoncini peppers into the pan. Cook until the mixture is only slightly 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce liquidly (about 75 percent of the mixture is above 2 teaspoons ketchup liquid), 3-5 minutes. Turn off the heat, add in the 2 tablespoons butter provolone cheese. Served on toasted brioche buns.

1 cup beef broth n 2 teaspoons cornstarch 6 slices provolone cheese Chinese food is wonderful and so are sloppy 6 toasted brioche buns (or your favorite type) joes. Thus, combining the two together just makes sense. The flavor combination in this ranch sauce: recipe is delectable.

1 tablespoon mayonnaise 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar Asian Sloppy Joes 1/2 teaspoon milk www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/ 1/4 teaspoon dried dill a57982/asian-sloppy-joes-recipe/ dash of paprika 2 teaspoons sesame oil splash of pepperoncini juice from jar 1/2 onion, chopped To a large skillet, add olive oil and heat over 3 cloves garlic, minced medium high heat. Add beef and cook, crumbling 1 pounds ground pork (or ground beef) as it browns, for about 4-5 minutes. Drain beef 1/2 cup ketchup and set aside on a plate. To same skillet, add onion 1/2 cup hoisin sauce and cook another 4-5 minutes, stirring just occa2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce sionally, so the onions are softened, but a little 2 tablespoons brown sugar charred on the edges. Add the beef back to the 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar pan, along with the minced garlic. Cook about 1 kosher salt minute. Reduce heat to medium. Season with salt Freshly ground black pepper and pepper, then add in sauce ingredients (mayon1 cup shredded cabbage naise, vinegar, milk, dill, paprika and pepper juice), 2 tablespoons mayonnaise and stir well to combine. Stir in peppers, Juice of half lime Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. Top with butter 2 tablespoons sesame seeds and stir until melted. In a small bowl, whisk 2 thinly sliced green onions together beef broth and cornstarch. Pour into the 4 sesame buns skillet and cook, stirring often, until thickened, In a large skillet over medium heat, heat sesame oil until fragrant, about 30 seconds. (Sesame oil can burn quickly, so don›t heat it for too long!) Add onions and cook until beginning to turn tender, about 4 minutes, then stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add ground pork, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 6 minutes. Add ketchup, hoisin, soy sauce, brown sugar and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper and bring mixture to a simmer. Cook until mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage, mayonnaise and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper. Make sandwiches: Top the bottom half of each bun with sloppy joe mixture then sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Top with remaining bun halves.

usually about 5 minutes or so. Serve on toasted buns with a slice of provolone cheese and a couple extra slices of pepperoncini peppers (optional).

The recipes for sloppy joes are endless, so if you’re ever in a sloppy joes rut then try one of these flavorenhanced recipes and fall back in love with sloppy joes again.

Kristin Kveno scours the internet, pours over old family recipes and searches everywhere in between to find interesting food ideas for feeding your crew. Do you have a recipe you want to share? You can reach Kristin at kkveno@thelandonline.com. v

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 9

Clover can be lucky for you and bees as well Four-leaf clovers are uniset by American Kati Borka versally considered to be in June of 2018. I recall my lucky and are associated brother and I found with happiness, wealth and upwards of a dozen of the general well being. lucky leaves in one search.

References to these lucky When a lucky one is found, green leaves are prevalent it is likely more are close in music, poetry and folkby. It is thought the fourth lore. Many childhood memoleaflet is caused by a genetIN THE GARDEN ries include looking for the ic mutation as well as envielusive four leaved clovers ronmental conditions.

By Sharon Quale with my brother. We would The three-leaf clover is have contests to see who called a shamrock in Ireland and legcould find the most and who could find end has it that St. Patrick came to a perfect specimen. When found, they Ireland to spread Christianity and were reverently pressed in books and used the shamrock as a metaphor for regarded as artifacts deserving perma- the Trinity. Irish brides have a shamnent preservation. rock in their wedding bouquets and The common white clover, Trifolium the grooms wear one in their boutonrepens, is found in pollinator-friendly niere. Folk traditions have a different lawns and is the best plant for finding attribute for each leaf of the four-leaf four-lobed lucky green leaves. clover. The first is hope, the second is Statistical surveys have found the faith, the third is love and the fourth occurrence of the rare four leaved clo- leaf is luck. ver to be close to 5,000 to 1. Records Clover lawns or part clover lawns reveal collectors have found as many are surging in popularity now because as 160,000 clovers in a lifetime. The they provide many positive environreported world record for the number mental benefits. The state of collected in one hour is 166 and was

photo by Sharon Quale

Minnesota has passed legislation that will help home owners create beefriendly habitat by covering up to 90 percent of the cost of converting traditional lawns or acreage into food sources for pollinators. The web address for information and an application for this program is beeandbutterflyfund.org.

James Wolfin, with the University of Minnesota Bee Lab has been researching bee diversity and habitat and says; “Some 55 of the state’s roughly 350 species of bees have been spotted eating Dutch white clover. A pound of white clover seed costs about $7 and the clover grows low enough people would not have to change the

way they mow their lawns. Just by not treating clover like a weed and letting it grow provides a really powerful resource for nearly 20 percent of the bees in the state.”

The pluses of a clover lawn are many including; drought resistance, low cost, no need for herbicides or pesticides, grows in poor soil and attracts pollinating insects. A final plus for me is the color and fragrance added to the yard as well as the opportunity to look for the elusive, lucky four-leaf clover.

Sharon Quale is a master gardener from central Minnesota. She may be reached at (218) 738-6060 or squale101@yahoo.com. v

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Minnesota author returns with stories of farm’s history

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer Editor’s note: In June of 2018 The Land published a review of Barbara Kodet Mages’ memoir, “To Bechyn and Back.” The book is a reflection of Mages’ childhood during the Great Depression to her adult life. Mages is back with another offering, “Dandelion Salad.”

Because “Bechyn” received such generous feedback from readers of The Land, Kristin Kveno gives us a look at Mages’ latest work.

It’s been said that the best things in life aren’t things. For Barbara Kodet Mages, writing down memories of her life as a keepsake for her family became vital over the years. The stories will be there for generations to read, to grasp what life was like ‘back in the day,’ farming the land, caring for animals and raising a family in southwestern Minnesota. Mages not only wanted her family to have these stories, but decided to fill a book with memories for all to enjoy.

Mages’ life stories are filled with faith and family. Life wasn’t always easy on the farm but her faith in God was woven through all the stories, even the ones that were filled with hardship.

In her writings she seemed to be full of unending hope and positivity through it all.

The latest book by Mages, “Dandelion Salad,” is a collection of short stories and starts where Mages’ first book “To Bechyn and Back” left off. Her first book recalls Mages’ early life up until her marriage to her husband, Alphonse.

Mages and Alphonse married in 1946 and began farming in Morton, Minn. Life wasn’t always easy on the farm.

Mages recalls some tough winter storms, no indoor plumbing and a shared party line with 1 4 other neighbors.

The theme throughout the book is the dedication the Mages family had to the farm, their faith and to each other.

There was a sense of unity when dealing with the adversities that they faced.

Each of the short stories began with “Remember when.” The stories tell the tales of life raising 16 kids out on the farm. Mages and Alphonse first started farming in Morton, Minn. but knew that they wanted a large family and when they grew out of that farm they found the perfect fit on a farm in Sleepy Eye, Minn. and raised their 16 kids there.

The stories are wonderful tales of a

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different time and place. Plus, some of the stories are just darn entertaining, like the time in 1982 when Alphonse won $7,000 and a ceiling fan on the game show, The Price is Right. His winnings made the front page of the Sleepy Eye Herald Dispatch. Ever the practical farmer, the $7,000 went for a new bailer and feed wagon for the farm.

If you’re from the Sleepy Eye and Morton areas, you’ll find lots of nostalgia about the people, places and an occasional animal or two from there.

Mages writes about an orphaned lamb that was given to the family to care for when living on the farm in Morton. The lamb was bottle-fed from glass pop bottles and quickly became a family favorite. The lamb got away in a snowstorm and the hunt was one to find the little guy before he froze, thankfully he was discovered hiding from the howling wind and snow under a lilac bush. He was sold that next year but the wonderful memories of the lamb remain fresh for Mages even after all these years.

The St. Patrick’s Day blizzard on March 17, 1965 not only brought about snow, and lots of it, but it also brought a new Mages baby into the world. The race was on to get to the Redwood Falls hospital six miles away before the baby arrived and before the roads became impassible. Alphonse, Mages and their son Danny made it to the hospital but with the snow coming down hard, they had to drop off Mages off at the hospital and head back to the farm. Mages gave birth to son, Michael Patrick, the middle name is an ode to that memorable day. Mages recalls that in the snowstorm a woman in labor that lived just six blocks from the hospital had to

be picked up by the snowplow from her home and brought to the hospital. It was quite a blizzard. Mages was snowed in at the hospital for days until Alphonse could pick her and baby Michael up.

Each story that Mages shares evokes wistfulness of days gone by. Where technology was limited at best, and families worked side by side to harvest the crops, care for the animals and take care of the home.

Mages tells stories of the many family gatherings over the years including the annual summer picnic which has been going on for 50 years and counting. From family baseball games to the beloved annual sisters’ weekends.

Gathering together seems to have always been an integral component of the Mages family and remains so even today.

The back pages of the book are filled with photos of family and special occasions. It ties the people together with the stories and is a great addition to the book.

The title of the book is “Dandelion Salad,” a dish that the Mages family would make frequently. The dandelions were mixed with bacon, radishes, cucumbers and red onions with a dressing of hot bacon drippings and vinegar, all coming together in making the salad a hit. The use of dandelions found around the corn cribs and in the road ditches, made an excellent salad year after year. Taking what is available and making the best of it, was a theme found throughout the book.

If you yearn for stories of life on the farm, adventures with a large family and some interesting tales, then then grab a copy of “Dandelion Salad.”

“Dandelion Salad” is available in Sleepy Eye at the following shops: Schutz Family Foods, Randy’s Family Drug and Nex-Tu-Nu II. v

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PAGE 11

Canine trackers provide vital search and rescue aid

By RICHARD SIEMERS them. The dogs can smell a thouThe Land Correspondent sand times better than humans and I believe dogs can reason; but SILVER LAKE, Minn. — In I think humans can problem solve 2014, Sandie Adams-Bruins took with reasoning better than dogs. part in a search for a young man The dog knows what to do; it’s the who had disappeared and foul play handler you have to train.” was suspected. Their foot searches covered a large area and took three In addition to understanding the months. Eventually, while searchscience of scent (e.g. it may be ing around a suspect’s property 30 wafting over a low spot and the miles away, they finally came handler must know how to help across the remains. All the time the dog pick it up again), handlers she was out searching, her pet are also trained in first aid, crime bloodhound, Bleu, sat at home. scene preservation, and hazardous waste, among others skills.

“After that search I said, You know, let’s train him for what the Adams-Bruins said the certificagood Lord made him to do.” tion with AMPWDA does not come easily.

While they did find the victim’s remains, it would have been quick“We do a certification trail which er with a dog. She said the searchis double-line, which means Photos by Richard Siemers nobody knows where the person ers may have been able to figure out earlier that the victim had The Minnesota Canine Search Rescue and Tracking team lined up the dogs in front of their is,” she said. “We have a starting been put in a car and moved from transport – an ambulance donated by the kasota Fire Department. Pictured are (left to rght): spot. You don’t know which directhe scene of the crime, where they Cameron Abbey with his black German shepherd, Bear; Sandi Adams-Bruins and Bob Bruins tion they went. The hider carries a and their bloodhound, Bleu; Katie Hallman with her German shepherd, Esuda; and Paul had spent much time looking.

GPS, and the K9 handler carries a Matheson with his Portugese water dogs Bridger and MacKenzie.

GPS. After the ‘find’ is made, the That experience sent her off on a handler’s GPS track is overlayed new adventure. She and her hus“I wanted something to do with my dogs when I band, Bob, got hooked up with Steve Wald of Austin, retired and I started exploring,” he said. “I wanted to over the hider’s GPS track. They must be on track 80 Minn. who operates Common Scents — training and get into something where I could be of service to percent of the trail and the trail must be completed within a time limit to certify.” consulting with search and rescue dog teams. people and also work with my dogs.”

Tracking for the dogs is somewhat like a game of “He showed us how to get things started, and we Matheson has Portuguese Water Dogs. He started went home and went to work on it,” Adams-Bruins with a live-trailing dog which he lost two years ago. hide and seek with the nose. said. “Then I found the American Mantrailing, Police He now works with two dogs, MacKenzie and Bridger, “Our K9 partners were born to do what they do,” and Work Dog Association (AMPWDA) and decided to which are also trained for Human Remains Detection Adams-Bruins said. “They love the challenge and go there to continue the training and get certified and as therapy dogs. He is a trainer with AMPWDA, enjoy ‘the game.’ As an added benefit, we throw a with Bleu.” (A second bloodhound, Bootlegger Jack, is and is the Minnesota Director for CUE (Community treat or their favorite toy in at the end of a search to being trained for when Bleu retires.)

United Effort) Center for Missing Persons out of help keep them motivated and keep the urgency to That eventually led to Adams-Bruins co-founding Wilmington, N.C. which works on a lot of cold case get to the end.”

Minnesota Canine Search Rescue and Tracking searches, and continues to advocate for families While searching may be like a game for the dog, it (MCSRT) team. It is one of a number of such teams when “law enforcement has to back off on the energy is a very focused game. Trailing dogs work off of the around Minnesota available to assist law enforce- they can put into a search,” he said. specific scent of an individual. An area search dog ment and other agencies. MCSRT is based out of On the day of the interview, the team was training looks for a human scent. Human remains dogs have Silver Lake, Minn., but travels wherever they are at a gravel pit. Volunteers hid themselves in a large been imprinted with that scent. needed. There are five handler/dog teams in MCSRT tract of land with rocks and trees and brush, and the “We train over animal trails to discourage the dog right now. They’ve participated in about 35 searches team members tracked them down. (from losing focus),” Adams-Bruins said. Matheson in the four years of their existence.

Matheson demonstrated human remains detection. See SEARCH AND RESCUE, pg. 14 “There are many times we have searched when we He hid the scent of remains among some cast-off palknow that we are looking for human remains,” lets and rocks. We followed MacKenzie on the search. d Adams-Bruins said. “But there are many searches for The dog trotted about, checking out various spots live victims where really what we are doing is provid- while he encouraged her to keep looking. When she ing information, like a direction of travel.” caught the scent her head went alert and her tail Their searches for a missing person do not always curled up. have a happy ending. “That can be hard,” AdamsThe handler has to be able to read his or her dog, Bruins said, “ but rewarding at the same time, which includes its body language. If a dog seems to because we are giving someone closure.” have lost the scent, the handler needs to figure out One of their team is Paul Matheson, 74, of Eden the situation.

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PAGE 12

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Demand for dairy products looking strong This column was written for the marketing week ending Feb. 14.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture left unchanged its 2020 milk production forecast in the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report. The 2020 production and marketings estimate remains at 222 and 221 billion pounds respectively. If realized, 2020 production would be up 3.7 billion pounds or 1.7 percent from 2019.

The 2020 fat basis export and import forecasts were also unchanged from the previous month. On a skim-solids basis, the import forecast was unchanged while the export forecast was raised on the strength of international demand for nonfat dry milk and skim milk powder.

Annual product price forecasts for cheese and butter were lowered from

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet” MILKER’S MESSAGE

PAGE 13

Coronavirus updates have negative impact on dairy markets MIELKE, from pg. 12 year-over-year increase since January, says HighGround Dairy, and marked the strongest December demand since 2014.

Domestic nonfat dry milk disappearance dropped sharply vs, prior year levels and marked the lowest December disappearance since 1999. The 59.4 percent year-over-year decline was the largest since February 2017.

Dry whey domestic disappearance was up 10.9 percent from November and 18.7 percent above a year ago, the eighth consecutive month it bested that of the year before. n The stars came into a little better alignment in the cheese market during Valentine’s week, but still have not achieved Nirvana. The cheddar blocks closed Feb. 14 at $1.82 per pound. This is down 11 cents on the week, the lowest since Dec. 26, but 24 cents above a year ago.

The barrels finished at $1.5850, up 10.75 cents on the week, 15 cents above a year ago, and 23.5 cents below the blocks. This is better than what it was, but a far cry from the normal 3 to 5-cent differential. Six cars of block traded hands on the week at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and 31 of barrel.

Midwest cheesemakers reported varying demand Valentine’s week, with most suggesting sales are meeting expectations; while others — particularly barrel producers — are concerned about market tones which are not helpful to their bottom line.

Spot milk was widely available for cheesemakers who are on the spot market, with reported prices in a tight, discounted range of $2 to $3 under Class III. Cheese inventories are available, but not overly concerning at this time. The block barrel price gap may have narrowed, says Dairy Market News, but “markets are definitely on shaky terrain.”

Western contacts suggest that cheese is readily available and heavy milk flows are resulting in as much milk moving through the vats as possible.

Some of this milk is heavily discounted, just to make room in the processing facility. Retail demand has been solid, enough so that stocks of some block cheese brands are highly committed for the next few months. Prices are supported by this demand while prices are weaker for barrel cheese, according to Dairy Market News.

Butter fell to $1.80 per pound on Feb. 12, the lowest CME price since Oct. 24, 2016, and stayed there.

Butter was 3.25 cents below the previous week’s closing and 45 cents below a year ago. Forty-eight cars found new homes on the week.

Butter makers report that sales are level and or meeting expectations and buying interest is beginning to show signs of springtime revival. Churning is active and cream is easily accessible from local and western suppliers. Producers are, at least in the near term, not overly concerned about the market

dip, says Dairy Market News. “In recent years, butter has been a dairy commodity stalwart regarding market tones.”

Churns are busy in the west with the increased availability of cream. Bulk butter demand is very strong and several customers are looking for coverage to third quarter. Print butter sales are low in some areas but high in others. With the approaching holiday, it is expected that butter requests will increase in three to four weeks. Supplies are currently readily available but some wondering how stocks will look this summer if interests in bulk butter continue to increase.

Dry whey closed Feb. 14 at 37 cents per pound.

This is down 2 cents on the week and 1.75 cents above a year ago, with five cars finding new homes on the week.

Grade A nonfat dry milk plunged to a Feb. 14 close at $1.17 per pound, down 8 cents and the lowest since Nov. 1, but still 18.25 cents above a year ago. Thirty-six cars were sold on the week, the highest weekly total since Aug. 26. n FC Stone’s Dave Kurzawski wrote in his Feb. 14 Early Morning Update, “China changed how it tests and tallies coronavirus, causing the number of cases to skyrocket from Wednesday to Thursday, and U.S.

dairy markets — particularly Class IV markets — felt it.”

“Some traders reacted to the news and pulled the trigger on exiting long positions ahead of next week’s GDT (Global Dairy Trade) event,” Kurzawski explained. “More than likely they were trying to beat any potential selling rush, if one should develop.” The next GDT auction is Feb. 18, leaving only Friday to “square away positions ahead of a very uncertain GDT,” as the markets were closed Feb. 17 for Presidents Day. Speaking in the Feb. 17 Dairy Radio Now broadcast, Kurzawski said there’s a lot of “flux” in the dairy markets right now and the volatility we have seen the past six months or so isn’t going away. The coronavirus holds part of the blame, but he suggests we consider what part of the news cycle are we in.

“Are we in the beginning, the middle, or the end?” he asked.

He believes we’re in the middle of the cycle but cautions, “There could still be some reverberating impacts for dairy markets.”

Looking at the past 12 months however, he points out, “We’ve made less milk, we’ve made less components within that milk, and we haven’t really changed the dynamic in terms of cow numbers. We’re See MIELKE, pg. 14

MILKER’S MESSAGE www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 14

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Kurzawski: Phoenix’s Oscar comments ‘unfortunate’ MIELKE, from pg. 13

Dairy Market News reports that the number of milk cows in the United States as of Jan. 1 totaled at a higher price level, which is beneficial for produc9.33 million head, down slightly from the previous ers,” Kurzawski said, “But within that we’re going to year.

Milk cow replacement heifers totaled 4.64 milhave some big swings on all of these markets.” lion head, down 1 percent. The percentage of milk I asked for his thoughts on the slam against the cow replacement heifers per 1,000 milk cows on dairy industry made at the Oscars by actor Joaquin Jan. 1 was 49.7, down 1 percent from 2019. Milk Phoenix who charged, “We feel entitled to artificial- cow replacement heifers expected to calve during ly inseminate a cow and when she gives birth, we the year totaled 29.3 million head, down 2 percent steal her baby. Even though her cries of anguish are from the previous year. unmistakable. And then we take her milk that’s Meanwhile, farm milk output is generally steady intended for her calf and we put it in our coffee and to higher, across the country, ahead of the upcoming our cereal.” spring flush, according to Dairy Market News.

Kurzawski said the comment was “unfortunate,” “Protein butterfat milk components remain at high but he pointed out the dairy industry is in a public levels but are anticipated to steadily decrease until relations battle with the plant-based industry. He the summer. At this point, raw milk volumes are adds, “We have a really good, wholesome product more than adequate to meet all processing needs. In and we need to figure out a way to market it in a fact, some milk loads for Class III can be found at better way and I think we can do that.” He reported discounted prices, under the market, especially in dairy demand domestically last year was up 2.5 the Central region.” percent vs. 1.6 percent in 2018, “So we have good demand for dairy products,” and he remains optimistic about 2020.

While we may be tempted to laugh and dismiss this kind of criticism outright, we must be assured SEARCH AND RESCUE, from pg. 11 that this is a sign of things to come. It stems from a vegan agenda that seeks to rule the thoughts, words told of a time that he and Adams-Bruins had spotted a fawn they had walked within a few feet of, but the and deeds of consumers the world over. dogs had ignored it. Dogs are trained to seek a spen cific scent and ignore all else.

Looking down under, the Feb. 10 Daily Dairy Report points out New Zealand’s 2019 calendar-year milk collections fell 0.7 percent to 21.786 million metric tons (from 2018’s 21.947 mmt.), while milk solids dropped 0.3 percent below year-earlier levels, according to the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand.

“Extreme weather at the start of this year suggests milk collections are also likely to fall slightly below prior-year levels in early 2020,” the Daily Dairy Report says, and “This year’s weather in New Zealand is a tale of two islands, with flooding on the South Island and near-drought conditions on the North Island — including in the major dairy areas on the North Island’s south end.”

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

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MCSRT will hold their fifth annual fundraiser in March. The money helps cover their expenses on a search. The Kasota Fire Department donated an ambulance which they use for hauling dogs, for which they have insurance and maintenance expenses, as well as travel, lodgSearches which do not ing, training and re-certilocate the object of the fying costs. They depend search are still helpful. on donations because They can eliminate a lot they do not charge for of the search area, and a their services. lot of search time.

Like most search and “We’ve been brought to rescue teams, they are certain areas where there volunteers who like workwas a suspicion of a body ing with their dogs and buried and our K9s did want to help people. Most not indicate on any of the team members human remains, so not have day jobs, and Adamsonly are we finding peoBruins said their employple, both alive and ers have been very generdeceased, but we are also ous in understanding gathering clues and inforthat at any given moment, mation.”

Paul Matheson’s dog MacKenzie places a paw over the the phone could ring and they would need to go.

Adams-Bruins said the place where she located the scent of human remains shortest search she was during a demonstration.

“Rarely do we get to on was for a missing take an actual vacation,” child. When the scent stopped at the end of the drive- she said, “because of missed time at work. None of us way, they knew the child had not wandered off but are paid for our time away from work.” had been picked up and put into a car. That was not That is why she founded MCSRT, so they could the hoped-for outcome, but it hastened the search. accept tax exempt donations to help with expenses.

Sometimes their searches take them onto farm“We’re a non-profit,” Adams-Bruins said. “We operland, but landowners are typically contacted first. ate on donations and out of our own pocket. We “We are a tool for law enforcement and fire depart- always like to make sure people know that we’ll ments to use,” Adams-Bruins said. “They take care of never charge for a search, ever.” logistics like talking to landowners and the press and The website for MCSRT is www.minnesotacaninethe like.” searchrescueandtracking.com. v

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 15

Cover crops and winter rye reduce erosion

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus MANKATO, Minn. — Red Wing, Minn. area farmer Brock Olson was a vendor at the MN Ag Expo which took place in Mankato Jan 22-23. His display told the story of his three-year participation in a Minnesota Corn Growers Association Innovation Grant Program — one of 12 projects around the state in 2019.

“I came up with a three-year rotation adding winter rye to the mix,” explained Olson. “After this winter rye harvest, I plant a multi-species cover crop consisting of oats, radish, winter peas and sorghum sudan. All four of these cover crops winter kill so I don’t need any spring tillage. They’re all decayed and I can no-till my corn and soybeans directly into this stubble. And most important, I have virtually zero erosion on those slopes compared with typical corn/soybean fields in our area.”

The objective of this project is to reduce nitrate loss and soil erosion.

Winter rye does this while also improving soil health. So maybe winter rye emerges as a third crop in the corn/ soybean rotation.

Yes, there is plenty of rolling topography in the Red Wing area, so soil erosion is a continued threat — especially in view of the heavy rains during the past couple of seasons.

Olson uses a 12-row planter with trash wheels and no-till coulters and spike closing wheels. Following harvest of the corn field, he plants the rye cover crop to protect the land over the winter

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Brock Olson and next spring. Then he’ll no-till plant soybeans into the green rye and terminate the rye after planting with a Roundup spray application.

Spike closing wheels intended to crumble the soil didn’t work so well in last spring’s wet soils. “It was nervewracking because there were never ideal planting conditions,” Olson admitted. “I planted regardless. It was too wet … and it stayed too wet.”

Olson has found the soybeans aren’t affected by the growing rye crop. “I’ve sprayed the day after planting and never saw any yield hit compared with no rye. I’ve sprayed three weeks after planting without any yield hit from the rye. They seem to grow okay together for a while; and in the process certainly tend to eliminate soil erosion too.

“The goal of my project was to have zero erosion at any point during the year with any crop. So far I have witnessed zero erosion where I have applied this technique.”

And, as they say, the proof is in the pudding. Olson’s Expo display, comparing no-till corn and no-till soybeans vs. conventional tillage corn, showed $299 profit per acre with full tillage corn/ soybean vs. $281 per acre for no-till winter rye with corn and soybeans. And a positive attribute of zero till is you leave less ruts in your field at harvest.

“There’s more soil structure, more root mass to support the heavy harvest equipment,” Olson added.

“Yes, slightly less profit per acre, but elimination of tillage costs — and most important — zero erosion with cover crops and this third crop of rye. I also learned the importance of getting that winter rye crop seeded earlier. My first year it was mid-November seed. Last fall I seeded earlier — mid-October into my soybean stubble — and I have a great winter stand of rye this year.”

His cover-crop seed source has been Albert Lea Seed House. And yes, this young agriculturist is interested in soil health; so he’s submitted soil samples the past two years for organic matter readings on his no-till ground vs. his tilled fields. Last year he also started doing the Haney Soil Health test — a measuring device of the carbon content of the soil. The higher the number, the healthier the soil.

Olson’s data showed organic matter in the first year was 1.5 percent and the Haney Health Test reading was 4.1.

Recent tests show 3.5 percent organic matter with a Haney reading of 7.4.

“Hopefully I’ll learn more in the future,” said Olson. “Though only a

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three-year trial run, I’ve seen positive results in reduced soil erosion. It’s not without its challenges. I’ve never raised a small grain until this year. It’s different than growing corn and soybeans. I have struggles with the timing of the herbicide application because it’s something I’m not yet used too.”

Olson is 35 years old and admits there is lots of learning yet to happen. He farms about 400 acres. This Innovative Grant project using a three-crop rotation system with cover crops was on a 40-acre field. He’s doing the same test on another 40-acre field this year.

The Minnesota Corn Growers Association shares some of the cost of these innovative grants with participating farmers. Olson said MCGA covered his cover crop seed costs and the soil testing costs. Olson is counting on his ‘testing’ concept to soon be working on his entire 400 acres of crop production!

A University of Minnesota graduate in mechancial engineering, Olson worked 10 years with 3M; but he professes, “I grew up on a family farm and just wanted to be out working with my hands in the profession of crop production and soil health.”

Variable rate planting of corn (maybe soybeans too) are next on his hopper list. His combine can generate maps of each field as he plants, so assessing soil scores and plant populations may be a 2020 project also. He’s aware of companies offering grid soil testing for adjusting fertilizer rates; as well as corn populations field-by-field — even on the go.

See OLSON, pg. 16

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

State Rep Torkelson remains optimistic about 2020

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus MANKATO, Minn. — Aside from Minneosta Governor Tim Walz, there were a number of political figures attending the MN Ag Expo in Mankato on Jan. 22-23. I caught up with State Representative Paul Torkelson of Lake Hanska, Minn. Paul Torkelson who shared some positive insights about 2020.

The Land: Do you see 2020 as being a more favorable year for Minnesota farmers?

Torkelson: Hopefully it will be. 2019 was a dreadful year for agriculture. Recent trade agreements

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should increase our exports. That should prompt up our markets. And that is great news for Minnesota farmers — both crop and livestock producers.

The Land: Will both the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement and Chinese deal enhance agriculture?

Torkelson: We are producers. We’ve gotten good at producing a lot and we need an export market to sell into. Getting these agreements signed and passed gives us a chance to rejuvenate these markets and that’s exactly what Minnesota farmers, and all farmers, need today.

The Land: At noon on Feb. 11 you will be seated in your chair at the Minnesota House chamber. What will you guys and gals be fighting about this session?

Torkelson: The big question will be the bonding bill. That’s important work being done in these years.

The Governor has his proposal out. It’s pretty good size. I’ve always said size is important; but more important is what is included. We want good, solid projects that actually advance the economy of Minnesota. In my mind, that means transportation, drinking water and waste water issues — in essence, things that are really needed; not just fluffy projects that make people feel good.

The Land: How do you relate to the socialistic attitudes that seem to be prevailing in government’?

Torkelson: Very poorly. It’s a bit alarming. It seems the young people are enamored by socialism — even Communism. I wish they would study their history more thoroughly and realize just how risky that is. Socialism has never turned out well for the countries that have adopted it.

The Land: Any changes in your own farming operation for 2020?

Torkelson: Nope, we’ll keep on keeping on. We actually ended up with a pretty reasonable year last

year. I would say we were pleasantly surprised.

Yields were better than anticipated. Certainly the Market Facilitation payments helped … as did crop insurance. I think most guys are able to stay in business. Bankers I have talked with seem to think they can put together financing packages for most operations. And that gives us the chance to take advantage of these better markets that do appear more likely.

The Land: You’ve known Governor Waltz for several years — both as a member of Congress and even as an area high school coach and teacher. Are his political ambitions exceeding his common sense these days?

Torkelson: I wouldn’t say that. I do know he has a broad agenda. I feel he’s taken a turn towards the liberal side of his party. That’s what got him elected, so that’s understandable. I just hope that he doesn’t forget about us out here in greater Minnesota! He represented a very rural district in Congress so he knows agriculture; he knows the issues out here and he can be helpful if he chooses to be.

The Land: You indicated you are already forward pricing some of your 2020 corn crop. What price level makes you feel comfortable?

Torkelson: We’d like to be around that $4 mark.

That’s getting to be more realistic. Generally, on $4-plus corn, I can make it work. Most important right now is getting a season of good weather. Soils are still mostly saturated with moisture. Not so much frost in the ground this winter so drainage systems have been functioning all winter. But a warm, dry spring is first request of every farmer.

Torkelson was first elected to the State House in 2009. He is on the House Transportation Finance Committee. He’s a fourth generation Watonwan County farmer with family roots dating back to 1878. v

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OLSON, from pg. 15 “The more I farm, the more I understand that our land is very variable in production and soil structure,” said Olson. “This to me means I should be farming according to these variations. But even with my engineering background, I need some time and money to

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get into these strategies. Maybe 2020 is my push year.”

“I try to make improvements, but you can only make so many changes in one season it seems to me.

Farm size will continue to grow and consolidate … these trends seem inevitable. My hope is that the family farm can still stick around and compete because I think growing up on a family farm raises you with certain aspects you can’t get anywhere else.

There’s a dedication to the soil that just grows within you. To me, it’s part of the bonding process that makes farming a very unique profession.”

Olson’s only child, Isaac, is 3 years old; but a second Olson is on the way. Yes, he thinks agriculture will need to help young people who are getting into farming. “I hope to mentor my son and get him as excited about this thing called farming as I am,” he said.

“We’ll simply hope and pray that ag leaders and policymakers keep American agriculture stable and profitable forever and ever.” v

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Variable nitrogen rates reduce costs and leaching

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus MANKATO, Minn. —Northfield area farmer Sam Peterson worked as an applicator for his local farm co-op right out of school. He was driving the crop sprayer applying the nitrogen to area farm fields. And that got him interested in split rate applications and how that could benefit their farm.

At that time, Peterson was already a member of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association. That’s why he was knowledgeable about the MCGA’s Innovation Grant Program. Now in its fourth year, the program is funded through the corn check-off and assists farmers with conservation-minded research projects.

Peterson understood variable rate applications of nitrogen increases nitrogen efficiency, crop yields, net profit and decreasing nitrogen loss.

But he didn’t yet know what split rate applications would work on Peterson Farms. So he applied to be a partici-

pant in the Innovation Grant Program — one of 12 projects across the state.

At the recent MN Ag Expo, which took place in Mankato, Minn. Jan. 22-23, Peterson displayed charts and data showing three years of comparison studies.

“I was motivated to find out if variable rate nitrogen applications would generate positive returns on our farm, our soils,” said Peterson. He’s aware of the negative press farmers sometimes get for nitrogen contamination in stream and rivers. “So if VRN (variable nitrogen rate) shows us how we can ratchet down our N apps, decrease nitrogen runoff and boost yields in the process, that’s a win/win situation.”

Peterson is an ag economics graduate of the University of Minnesota. “My project compares three different variable rates of nitrogen compared to a flat-rate check. We’re comparing the economic return of each of these programs to see if

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Grant program fosters innovation Dr. Adam Birr, Executive Director, Minnesota Corn Growers Association “The Innovation Grant Program has been one of the highlights of MCGA programs. Started just four years ago, this past year we had 12 different projects. Demonstrating conservation by working with our farmer members has become a marquee program for us.

Yes, this is part of the research portfolio of MCGA. Research projects with the University of Minnesota is the keystone to the nearly $2.5 million dollars we pledge into research each year.

Biopolymer research projects today rank at the top of our ambition listing. We’ve been talking about renewable plastics for some time now. But this group at the University sees more and more details emerging — particularly as we look at what might be done with tires. We are learning they really are paying off.”

And what has he found out? “So far I’ve found each program generates different results. We had the same winner the first two years, but a new winner last year. It showed that all were kind of neck and neck. They each have a different way of producing results … and so far, there isn’t a single best way to do nitrogen apps on our farm fields.”

Nitrogen rates were 100 pounds flat rate anhydrous before corn planting; then side dress apps of urea in mid to late June in the 80 to 100-pound rate.

This was corn on corn so thus the higher N rates. “Usually our farm does two years corn, one year soybeans; but these trials were always on second-year corn.”

So are farmers guilty of over fertilizing their corn crops? Peterson would say ‘yes’ in past years. “But recently, we’ve been driving down our pounds of nitrogen per bushel — maybe to the extent that we have under applied and limited our yields the last few years.

We’re trying to find a happy medium and we think this split rate applications is showing us how,” he said.

Differences in soil type obviously can impact results and that too is part of Peterson’s analyses. “So we’re taking

some corn-based feed stock might become part of future tire manufacturing. Corn starch is the product they are working with. Yes, this indeed will be a needle mover.”

Dr. Birr mentioned the on-going Nitrogen Smart meetings now taking place across various Minnesota locations as another key activity stirring up attendance with Minnesota corn growers and even some of the nonfarm audience in rural Minnesota.

He contends that becoming ‘nitrogen smart’ means dealing with the geology of the soil structure across Minnesota. “When you look at the technology and the economic squeeze we’re in these days with crop production, no one can afford to waste inputs right now. We’re into our sixth year of economic downturn. We’ve got to manage our inputs into crop production more wisely,” summed up Birr. v

soil cores and testing for nitrates in the soil; also tissue samples to see how much nitrogen is actually in the plant.

At this stage I can’t say which is the right procedure. It depends on your farming practices such as manure applications and how much pre-plant N you apply.”

The Peterson farm land has a history of hog manure applications; plus they buy quite a lot of dairy cow manure and turkey litter also.

He said their current cost per bushel for corn production is around $3.65.

They averaged 140 bushel on that June 2 planting last season. The rest of the corn planted earlier averaged around 200 bushels per acre for 2019. “An average yield for us is around 210 bushels,” Peterson said. “Last year was not the best corn growing season.”

Peterson Farms plant 30-inch rows with 34,000-35,000 plants per acre. All acres are variable rate planted, so both corn populations and nitrogen apps are adjusted on the go. “Anymore, our combine monitor pretty much tells us how to farm,” summed up Peterson.

For more information, contact Peterson at (507) 649-1582 or via email at sam.peterson140@gmail.com. v

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 19

Agriculture activist urges farmers to utilize social media

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer MANKATO, Minn. — Michelle Miller, also known as the Farm Babe, has amassed over 125,000 social media followers. Miller calls herself “a big city globetrotter turned Iowa farm girl.”

She currently farms 2,200 acres of row crops and raises sheep and cattle with her boyfriend in Iowa.

Miller’s work online and in print, along with presentations she gives all over the country and internationally, is aimed at debunking myths in agriculture and spreading the truth. She was the keynote speaker at the MN Ag Expo on Jan. 22 at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato, Minn. Her talk included excerpts of a presentation that Kevin Fulta, chairman of the horticultural science department at the University of Florida, has given in the past.

“Public is exposed to a lot of food labels,” Miller said. There’s a portion of the population that wants to know more, there’s another group of people that are distractors — or as Miller calls them, “extreme activists.” Those people make up very little of the population, but their voices are loud to gain maximum attention. “Ninety percent of the people are in the movable middle.”

Miller focuses her debunking of ag myths to that 90 percent.

The public has interest in where and how their food is grown and seems to appreciate the work being done by fam-

ers. “They like and trust farmers but don’t always like and trust farms.”

Miller feels that while facts are facts, that doesn’t always make a difference.

“Facts don’t matter until you establish trust.”

“To earn trust we have to overcome the barriers,” Miller said. She encourages producers to show how they care.

Finding commonality is vital in generating meaningful dialogue. “Really create common context. We all care about earth.” The public needs to understand more about what farmers do.

Miller spoke about the opportunity she had a few years ago being the keynote speaker at the March for Science in Des Moines, Iowa. “I led with why. I wanted to educate people about GMOs. I started with real world problems (in farming.)” At the end people cheered “because I led with why.”

Miller suggests farmers can volunteer at school to talk about agriculture, create content online, or amplify the information that’s out there. “We have one of the most powerful tools at your fingertips (social media.)”

Miller also believes the media wants to hear from farmers. She suggests talking to those who are involved in food creation. “Chefs are a great market of people to talk to,” she said. They can be misinformed because they may not have a direct connection to a farmer. Being available to share information on farming can educate the chefs on how the food was grown and raised.

You can debunk some of these myths out there. “Being that voice of reason and myth busting. It’s so important for us to speak up so science has the loudest voice. It’s important that we’re a bigger part of the conversation,” Miller said. This is especially true when talking about the fear-induced GMO debate.

Don’t underestimate the power of your farm story. “People have never been more interested in where their food comes from,” Miller said. Tasks on the farm that farmers do every day, but take for granted, is exciting to the general public. She used the example of letting the bull out to pasture. There’s a great disconnect between the public and where their food is grown. Showing what farmers do and why on the various social media platforms helps bridge that disconnect.

When on social media, Miller suggests finding commonality when dealing with those who don’t agree with you. Also, keep it positive — don’t go negative. “Remember to have that empathy. Remember to take that high road.”

Miller believes farmers need to have a voice. “We need to all be a part of this message.”

She encourages producers to go beyond your group and find people who may not know much about farming and communicate your agricultural message. “Reach out to new groups, share your story,” she said. “Listen to understand shared values. Have the courage to tell the truth. Always remember that the distractor is a very small percentage.”

“I strongly encourage all of you to get on social media,” Miller said. She advises to use humor and suggests not to overthink your social media post.

Getting your agricultural message out isn’t hard, but it takes the willingness to put the information out there and have a meaningful dialogue on the significant role agriculture plays in our society.

Miller has used social media to debunk farming myths and wants other farmers to join her online to grow agriculture’s voice in social media. v

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Consider this when making crop insurance decisions During the next few weeks, many farm except that the guarantees on RPE poliof $1.26 per bushel in 2013. operators will be finalizing their crop cies are fixed at the base price level and For soybeans, the harvest price has increased in insurance decisions for the 2020 crop are not affected by harvest prices that five years (2007, 2009, 2010, 2012 and 2016), year. March 15 is the deadline to purexceed the base price. The revenue guardecreased in seven years (2008, 2011, and 2014chase crop insurance for the 2020 crop antee for RP policies is increased for final 2019) and stayed the same in 2013. The range has year. Profit margins for crop production insurance calculations, if average CBOT been from an increase of $2.84 per bushel in 2012 to this year remain very tight, which makes prices during the month of October are a decline of $3.00 per bushel in 2008. the 2020 crop insurance decisions even higher than the February CBOT prices.

Many producers in the upper Midwest have been more critical.

Producers purchase RP and RPE insur- able to significantly enhance their insurance protecFARM PROGRAMS ance coverage levels from 50 to 85 perProducers have several crop insurance tion in recent years by utilizing the trend-adjusted policy options to choose from, including cent, and losses are paid if the final crop

By Kent Thiesse yield endorsement, with only slightly higher premiyield protection policies and revenue revenue falls below the revenue um costs. The APH yield exclusion option allows protection (RP and RPE) policies, guarantee. The final crop revenue is specific years with low production to be dropped supplemental crop option, and other the actual yield on a farm unit times from crop insurance APH yield guarantee calculainsurance policy options. There are the CBOT December corn futures tions. Several counties in central and northern also decisions with using “enterprise units” vs. price and November soybean futures price during Minnesota are eligible for yield exclusion for corn “optional units”, as well as decisions on the use of the month of October. As of Feb. 17, the 2020 estiand soybeans in some of the past several years. For “trend adjusted” actual production history yields. mated crop insurance base prices in the upper information on which counties, crops and years are Midwest for YP, RP, and RPE policies were estimat- eligible for yield exclusion, go the Risk Management Yield protection insurance policy options provide ed at $3.92 per bushel for corn and $9.20 per bushel Agency web site (www.rma.usda.gov/). for “yield only” insurance protection, based on hisfor soybeans. The current 2020 base price estimates toric actual production history yields on a given See THIESSE, pg. 21 farm unit. Yield protection prices are based on aver- compare to 2019 base prices of $4.00 per bushel for corn and $9.54 per bushel for soybeans. age Chicago Board of Trade prices for December The 2020 crop insurance base prices will be Table A — Comparison of Yield Protection and Revenue Protection for Corn corn futures and November soybean futures during finalized on March 1, while 2020 harvest Assumptions: Actual production history: 190 bushels per acre the month of February — similar to revenue insur 85 percent yield protection bushel guarantee: 161.5 bushels per acre prices are finalized on Nov. 1.

Yield protection market price: $3.90/bushel (Chicago Board of Trade December futures estimate) ance products. Producers can purchase yield protec Revenue protection/ revenue protection with harvest price exclusion base price: $3.90/ bushel tion insurance coverage levels from 50 to 85 percent, Most corn and soybean producers have

(Chicago Board of Trade December futures estimate)

85 percent revenue protection minimum guarantee: $629.85 per acre and losses are paid if actual corn or soybean yields utilized RP policies in recent years.

Estimated Actual 2020 Production (bushels per acre) on a farm unit fall below the yield guarantees.

However, in many years, the RPE policies

205 190 175 160 145 can offer similar protection at a lower pre- Estimated Insurance Indemnity Payment Per Acre Revenue protection (RP) and revenue protection

Insurance Type (Before Premium Deductions) with harvest price exclusion (RPE) insurance policy mium cost. If the “harvest price” (average CBOT price in October) for December corn

Yield Protection (85 percent) 0 0 0 $5.85 $64.35 options provide a guaranteed minimum dollars of futures or November soybean futures is

Revenue Protection (85 percent) gross revenue per acre (yield multiplied by price).

(Chicago Board of Trade lower than the “base price” (average CBOT This minimum guarantee is based on yield history

Harvest Price per Bushel) price in February), the RP and RPE pay(APH) and the average CBOT prices for December

$4.50 0 0 0 $6.75 $74.25 corn futures and November soybean futures during ment calculations function similarly. RPE

$4.25 0 0 0 $6.38 $70.13 policies will likely result at higher net the month of February. The RP and RPE insurance

$4.00 0 0 0 $6.00 $66.00 indemnity payment at similar insurance policies function essentially in the same manner, $3.75 0 0 0 $29.85 $86.10 coverage levels. However, it is important to

$3.50 0 0 $17.35 $69.85 $122.35 recognize the added risk of utilizing a RPE

$3.25 0 $12.35 $61.10 $109.85 $158.60 policy when the final “harvest price”

NOTE: Table developed by Kent Thiesse. The tables are for example only. Actual crop insurance calculations will vary, ARE YOU A exceeds the “base price” in years when

depending on the insured crop, farm location, actual production history yield, endorsements, etc. farm units have a yield loss that exceeds the insurance coverage level — such as Table B — Comparing Yield Protection and Revenue Protection for Soybeans

Assumptions: Actual production history: 55 bushels per acre occurred with the 2012 drought in many

85 percent yield protection bushel guarantee: 46.75 bushels per acre

Yield protection market price: $9.20/bushel (Chicago Board of Trade November futures estimate) areas. This scenario could result in signifi Revenue protection/ revenue protection with harvest price exclusion base price: $9.20/ bushel cantly less insurance indemnity payments (Chicago Board of Trade November futures estimate)

85 percent revenue protection minimum guarantee: $430.10 per acre with RPE policies as compared to RP poliWORKER?

Estimated Actual 2020 Production (bushels per acre) cies, and could add considerably more risk 55 50 45 40 35 to a farming operation.

If You or a Loved One Estimated Insurance Indemnity Payment Per Acre Insurance Type (Before Premium Deductions) A historical analysis for the past 13 years Have Been Diagnosed with

Yield Protection (85 percent) 0 0 $16.10 $62.10 $108.10 (2007-2018) shows that the final crop

Revenue Protection (85 percent) Mesothelioma or Lung Cancer insurance harvest price for corn has been (Chicago Board of Trade lower than the spring base price in 10 of

Harvest Price per Bushel)

$10.50 0 0 $18.38 $70.88 $123.38 the 13 years — including the past seven

$10.00 0 0 $17.50 $67.50 $117.50 years (2013-2019). The only years which Even if you have been turned down before saw an increase in the harvest price were

$9.50 0 0 $16.63 $64.13 $111.63 2010, 2011 and 2012. The range has been

$9.00 0 0 $25.10 $70.10 $115.10 from an increase in the harvest price of

$8.50 0 $6.10 $47.60 $90.10 $132.60 plus $1.82 per bushel in 2012 to a decline

$8.00 0 $30.10 $70.10 $110.10 $150.10

NOTE: Table developed by Kent Thiesse. The tables are for example only. Actual crop insurance calculations will vary, of $1.27 per bushel in 2008; and a decline

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depending on the insured crop, farm location, actual production history yield, endorsements, etc.

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Compare apples to apples when selecting coverage THIESSE, from pg. 20 Enterprise Units and Optional Units Enterprise units combine all acres of a crop in a given county into one crop insurance unit, while optional units allow producers to insure crops separately in each individual township section. Enterprise units usually have considerably lower premium costs (approximately $4.00-$7.00 per acre) compared to optional units, for comparable RP and RPE policies. Producers should be aware that enterprise units are based on larger coverage areas, and do not necessarily cover losses from isolated storms or crop damage that affect individual farm units — such as damage from hail, wind or heavy rains. So additional insurance (such as hail or wind insurance) may be required to insure against these types of losses. It is also important for producers to run “what if” scenarios when analyzing the comparison between enterprise units and optional units.

Many times, producers automatically opt for enterprise units every year, due to the lower premium cost per acre for similar coverage, and probably not totally understanding the differences in coverage between enterprise units and optional units. It is important to analyze the yield risk on each individual farm unit when determining if paying the extra premium for insurance coverage with optional units makes sense. If a producer has uniform soil types and drainage, in a close geographical area, and is primarily concerned with a price decline, a RP policy with enterprise units is probably a good option. However, if a producer has farm units that are more spread out geographically, with more variation in soil types and drainage, and has greater concerns with yield variability, they may want to consider a RP policy with optional units.

Supplemental Coverage Option insurance considerations for 2020 Many corn and soybean producers also have to decide on Supplemental Crop Option insurance coverage for 2020 by the March 15 sign-up deadline. The SCO coverage is only available to producers who choose the Price Loss Coverage farm program option

for the 2019 and 2020 crop year.

SCO allows producers who choose the PLC farm program option to purchase additional county-level crop insurance coverage up to a maximum of 86 percent coverage. The SCO coverage fills the gap up to the 86 percent coverage level from the coverage level chosen by the producer (75, 80, 85 percent, etc.) for yield protection or revenue protection insurance. For example, a producer who purchases an 80 percent revenue protection policy could purchase an additional 6 percent SCO coverage. There is not much incentive for producers already at the 85 percent coverage level to add SCO coverage. The federal government subsidizes 65 percent of the premium for SCO coverage, so farm-level premiums are quite reasonable.

SCO is a county revenue-based insurance product which is somewhat similar to some of the area risk protection crop insurance products available.

The calculations for SCO function very similarly to revenue protection insurance policies, since they utilize the same crop insurance base price and harvest price. The biggest difference is that SCO uses county-level average yields, rather than the farm-level actual production history yields. It is possible for a producer to collect on an individual revenue protection policy, but not on a SCO policy, or vice versa.

Interested producers should check with their crop insurance agent for details on SCO insurance coverage and premiums for 2020.

Key items to consider There are a wide variety of crop insurance policies and coverage levels available. Make sure you are comparing “apples-to-apples” when comparing crop insurance premium costs for various options or types of crop insurance policies; as well as recognizing the limitations and the differences of the various crop insurance products. 2020 crop insurance premiums for most coverage levels of corn and soybeans in the Midwest should be similar to comparable 2019 premium levels.

View crop insurance decisions from a risk management perspective. Given the tight profit margins for crop proSee THIESSE, pg. 24

PAGE 21

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

MARKETING

Grain Outlook Corn market stuck in neutral

Cash Grain Markets corn/change* soybeans/change*

Stewartville Edgerton Jackson Janesville Cannon Falls Sleepy Eye

$3.48 +.01 $3.88 +.01 $3.69 .00 $3.68 +.01 $3.50 +.02 $3.55 +.01

$8.27 +.18 $8.37 +.17 $8.39 +.28 $8.41 +.23 $8.28 +.18 $8.32 +.13

Financial Focus

Making 2020 crop insurance decisions Farmers last year dealt with a wet spring, which brought prevented planting, delayed planting and late planting. Then, storms throughout the summer brought hail and wind. That, unfortunately, wasn’t the end of what the year would bring.

Harvest brought on its own set of challenges, including light test weight, quality issues and tillage left unfinished. Thankfully, many also received some assistance through programs like the Market Facilitation Program and the prevent plant top-up payments.

So, can we expect more of the same for 2020? None of us have a crystal ball to know. The good news is, farmers can make deciAMY KRAMER sions in the next month to help Compeer Insurance ease some of the unknowns we Training Specialist can’t control.

Waite Park, Minn.

Sign up for your 2018 farm bill decision at your local FSA office by March 15 As with 2014, farmers have three choices for the 2018 farm bill: Price Loss Coverage (PLC), Agriculture Risk Coverage-County (ARC-CO), or Agriculture Risk Coverage-Individual (ARC-IC). For 2014, many went with ARC-CO for most crops due to what appeared to be a guaranteed payment for the first year and a good chance for a payment in year two. The election was made for the duration of the farm bill.

The following marketing analysis is for the week ending Feb. 14.

CORN — Corn continued to trade sideways this Average: $3.63 $8.34 week without major headlines beyond the coronavirus, now named COVID-19. The February World Year Ago Average: $3.35 $8.11 Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report Grain prices are effective cash close on Feb. 18. did nothing to push corn out of its trading range. The *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period. trend was lower in the first half of the week without new business. Mid-week reports stated the rate which the virus was spreading was slowing. This brought enthusiasm to the market and a push to the upper end of the recent range. However, buyers turned sellers when prices pushed up against technical PHYLLIS NYSTROM levels and the virus news CHS Hedging Inc. For the most part, livestock prices have been under changed. Basis levels remained St. Paul pressure for the first half of the month of February. firm without farmer selling.

All sectors — including cash, cutouts and futures — Reports of quality problems, have been under pressure from continued selling weak barge freight, and decent driving prices lower throughout the period. Currently export numbers narrowed corn spreads. each category mentioned above has participated in Late in the week, China reported they changed the the sell off and each is technimethodology for diagnosing cases of COVID-19. cally oversold at this writing.

Instead of using just RNA or ribonucleic acid tests The question now becomes will (which can take days to process), they will include the markets turn higher and computerized tomography or CT scan results. hold or is a correction all that Adjusting the data, there was a surge in death can be counted on. Time will reports and in reports of confirmed cases. As of Feb. answer this question.

14, there were over 63,000 reported cases in China Cattle have been under preswith nearly 1,400 deaths. The questionable data prosure since the middle of January vided by China casts a shadow over the effect the as prices have plummeted nearly JOE TEALE virus may end up having on world economies and $9.00 per hundredweight in the Broker demand. U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin futures contracts.

At the same Great Plains Commodity said it would take 2-4 weeks to better determine the time, the beef cutouts have Afton, Minn. impact of the virus on China’s economy. Some economists predict the effect on the first quarter GDP in dropped a similar amount. The the United States would be less than 0.5 percent. movement of beef was rather slow including domesWorkers in China were reportedly beginning to tic usage and the export market, also affecting pricreturn to work this week for the first time since the es.

Weights have also been a problem as beef producLunar New Year. tion has been greater than anticipated. This has This week’s February WASDE report made miniincreased the supply of beef during this period which mal changes on the 2019-20 balance sheet. They has been another negative to the cattle market. raised corn for ethanol by 50 million bushels to 5.425 As spring approaches and temperatures increase, billion bushels and cut exports 50 million bushels to 1.725 billion bushels. This left ending stocks the barbeque season should increase demand for unchanged at 1.892 billion bushels when the trade beef. In the short run it would appear that because was expecting a small decline to 1.841 billion bush- the market is oversold, a rally should ensue. The key els. The stocks-to-use ratio remains at 13.4 percent to higher prices will be the advent of stronger and the average on farm price at $3.85 per bushel. demand for beef whether domestic or the export

For the 2018 farm bill, the decision depends on the county or counties you farm in. For example, several counties in southwest Minnesota experienced immense corn yield losses due to late planting and untimely winds during fast growing conditions.

These producers may choose ARC-CO, a revenuebased program, which best meets their needs for the 2019 growing season. Those in decent yielding areas may choose PLC, which focuses on more of a priceonly protection for 2020. Your decision should weigh the type of risk you want to protect against: revenue (price and yield) or price only. ARC-IC is also an option for those producers who had either 100 percent prevent plant farm numbers or had lower yields by farm number, but aren’t expecting an ARC-CO payment for 2019.

For those who elect the PLC coverage, be sure to discuss Supplemental Coverage Option with your crop insurance agent to see if this is a good fit for your operation. SCO is a highly-subsidized federal

See NYSTROM, pg. 23

See KRAMER, pg. 24

Livestock Angles Oversold beef could spark rally

See TEALE, pg. 23

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.

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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PAGE 23

South American crop, currencies not in U.S. favor NYSTROM, from pg. 22 World ending stocks came in at 296.8 million metric tons compared to 297.2 mmt expected and 297.8 mmt last month. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Outlook Forum Feb. 20-21 will give us a peek at balance sheets for the 2020-21 marketing year.

CONAB pegged Brazil’s corn crop at a record 100.5 mmt. The USDA kept their estimate at 101 mmt.

Brazil’s first corn harvest was 19 percent complete vs. 14 percent average, as of Feb. 7. Rio Grande do Sul, which produces 23 percent of their corn crop, was 47 percent complete vs. 35 percent on average.

Brazil’s second (or safrinha) corn crop was 14 percent planted vs. 26 percent on average. Mato Grosso, which produces 42 percent of the safrinha corn crop, was 24 percent planted vs. 39 percent on average.

The safrinha crop will pollinate in April. The Rosario Grains Exchange raised their Argentine corn estimate 1 mmt to 50 mmt. The Buenos Aires Grains Exchange is using 49 mmt for Argentina. They raised the corn rating 3 percent from last week to 62 percent good/excellent. The USDA is at 50 mmt for Argentina, unchanged from the January report.

Weekly export sales were within expectations at 38.1 million bushels. After last week’s weaker export forecast on the monthly WASDE report, we need 25.3 million bushels of sales per week to hit the new 1.725-billion-bushel outlook. Total commitments of 935 million bushels are 36 percent behind last year when the USDA is forecasting a 16.5 percent yearon-year decline.

The weekly ethanol report was a disappointment with production slowing 48,000 barrels per day to 1.033 million bpd — the second-slowest in the last 12 weeks. Ethanol stocks rose 884,000 barrels to 24.4 million barrels and the fourth highest on record.

Brazil’s largest sugarcane crush plant is considering making changes which would use cane waste as an energy source to produce ethanol using corn and produce ethanol year-round.

Outlook: March corn has traded at $3.80 every day since Jan. 30, showing us just how hard it has been for corn to show much direction beyond $3.75 to $3.85 per bushel. Argentine corn is becoming more competitive with U.S. corn into Asia as Argentina’s

MARKETING currency slips vs. the U.S. dollar and on weaker ocean freight. There were reports that China was purchasing Ukrainian corn during the week also. Corn may be expected to stay in its recent trading range until more is known how the COVID-19 may affect China’s purchases. For the week, March corn fell 5.75 cents to $3.77.75, July was off 6.75 cents at $3.85.5, and December corn retreated 5.25 cents to $3.88.75 per bushel. The December contract is approaching the contract low at $3.87.75 per bushel.

The spring temperature outlook for the Midwest calls for normal to above normal temperatures. This would be a welcome forecast.

The markets had a holiday-shortened week with the markets closed on Feb. 17 for Presidents’ Day. Government reports will be delayed a day during the week due to the holiday. The USDA’s Outlook Forum will be held February 20-21. They will have supply/ demand sheets for the 2020-21 crop year. Over the last 13 years, the USDA’s February Forum has overstated the March corn planting number six times and overstated the March soybean planting intention number eight times.

SOYBEANS — March soybeans closed higher for nine straight sessions before ending that streak on Feb. 14 ahead of a long holiday weekend. Traders anticipate at least some goodwill purchases by China after the Phase 1 trade agreement takes effect Feb. 15. The February WASDE report was mostly a nonevent. The uncertainty about what effect the COVID19 virus will have on the pace of Chinese purchases of U.S. goods and world economies, in addition to a huge South American harvest lurking over the markets and a strong U.S. dollar, may cap the upside.

There is a window of possible business if Brazil’s rain delays their soybean harvest and export loadings, but the rain there is beneficial to crop development.

Brazil’s soybeans were still about a dime cheaper than U.S. origin in the short run, but China was reportedly buying a few U.S. cargoes during the week to fill logistical needs.

The February WASDE report made only one change

Pork cutouts slip lower this month TEALE, from pg. 22 market. Producers should remain diligent and protect inventories as needed.

The hog market continues to be a roller coaster market and has been since back in 2014. Currently we are near the lows of this elongated up and down in the market. China continues to be a market maker as from one week to the next rumors continue to fly.

This has contributed much to the erratic performance in the futures market over the past year and will likely affect the market in the weeks and even

the months ahead.

Pork cutouts have slipped lower over the month of February so far. Pork movement appears to be gaining some strength over the past week and could help in initiating a rally in prices in the near term. One would have to expect hog prices will continue the roller coaster pattern which has been in place for several years until either supply or demand changes significantly in the near future. Thus, producers should protect inventories if needed. v

on the 2019-20 balance sheet. They increased exports 50 million bushels to 1.825 billion bushels. Ending stocks fell according to 425 million bushels. The average trade guess for ending stocks was 448 million bushels. The stocks-to-use ratio fell from 11.9 to 10.5 percent. The average on farm price was lowered a quarter to $8.75 per bushel. World ending stocks were 98.9 mmt, slightly higher than the 97.4 mmt trade guess and last month’s 96.7 mmt estimate.

In a friendly move, China’s soybean import forecast was raised 3 mmt to 88 mmt or 3.23 billion bushels.

China’s own soybean import number is 87.7 mmt.

That’s good news since Brazil’s soybean production was jumped from 123 mmt last month to 125 mmt this month (4.59 billion bushels). The trade was looking for a small increase to 123.6 mmt. For Argentina, the USDA was unchanged at 53 mmt and in line with the trade estimate.

CONAB raised their Brazilian soybean forecast to 123.25 mmt. Brazil’s currency hit a new all-time low vs. the U.S. dollar during the week. Abiove forecasted Brazil’s crop at 123.7 mmt. Agroconsult is using 126.3 mmt for Brazil’s soybean production and the USDA is at 125 mmt. Brazil’s soybean harvest as of Feb. 7 was 15 percent complete vs. 13 percent on average. Mato Grosso, which produces 27 percent of the soybean crop, was 45 percent complete vs. 26 percent on average. The Rosario Grains Exchange increased their Argentine soybean production estimate 1 mmt to 55 mmt. The USDA is at 53 mmt.

Weekly export sales were on the low side of estimates at 23.7 million bushels. Total commitments of 1.21 billion bushels are running 8 percent behind last year. The USDA is expecting a 4.4 percent yearon-year increase in exports. We need 20.8 million bushels of weekly sales to hit the new 1.825-billionbushel export target. China has just 24.8 million bushels of unshipped U.S. soybeans on the books.

Outlook: Soybeans are in a balancing act between anticipated business with China vs. a record soybean crop in Brazil and huge crop in Argentina. The strong U.S. dollar vs. South America’s currencies does not work in our favor, but harvest delaying rain does.

Soybean selling by the U.S. farmer has been limited, which has kept basis levels firm and spreads narrowing. China has stated they will meet their Phase 1 agreement, but no one will be surprised if they ask to delay them. No request has been made yet. We could expect some consolidation in soybeans without fresh export sales.

For the week, March soybeans rallied 11.75 cents to settle at $8.93.75, July was 7.5 cents higher at $9.15.5, and the November contract managed a 4-cent gain to $9.22.5 per bushel.

Nystrom’s Notes: Contract changes for the week as of the close Feb. 14: Chicago March wheat crumbled 16 cents to $5.42.75, Kansas City fell 7 cents to $4.65.5, and Minneapolis dropped 10.25 cents to $5.25.5 per bushel. v

PAGE 24

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THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Take a good look at the 85 percent coverage levels THIESSE, from pg. 21

with enterprise units in recent years.

2020 may be the time to consider duction in 2020, some producers may upgrading to the 85 percent coverage have a tendency to reduce their crop level — especially for soybeans. In insurance coverage in order to save a many cases, the 85 percent coverage few dollars per acre. However, a prolevel offers considerably more protecducer must first decide how much tion, with a modest increase in premifinancial risk they can handle if there um costs. Many producers will be able are greatly reduced crop yields due to to guarantee near $550 to $700 per potential weather problems in 2020, acre for corn; and near $350 to $475 and/or lower than expected crop prices. per acre for soybeans at the 85 percent Revenue protection crop insurance polcoverage level for 2020 — particularly icies serve as an excellent risk manwhen utilizing trend-adjusted actual agement tool for these situations, and production history yields.

2020 may not be a good year to reduce Use caution when considering RPE insurance coverage, given the current (harvest price exclusion) insurance uncertainty surrounding crop prices. policies. If the harvest price (average Take a good look at the 85 percent CBOT price in October) for corn or coverage levels — especially when soybeans is lower than the base price using enterprise units with Revenue (average CBOT price in February), the Protection insurance policies. Many RP and RPE payment calculations Midwest corn and soybean producers function similarly; and RPE premium have been utilizing a minimum of 80 costs are slightly less than RP premipercent revenue protection coverage

ums at similar coverage levels.

Remember, there is considerable added risk in utilizing a RPE policy when the final harvest price exceeds the base price, and your farm unit(s) have a yield loss that exceeds the insurance coverage level.

In most instances, utilize the trend adjusted average production history endorsement for 2020. Many producers in the upper Midwest have been able to significantly enhance their insurance protection in recent years by utilizing the trend adjusted average production history option with only slightly higher premium costs.

Using the trend adjusted average production history endorsement is a very good crop insurance strategy for most eligible corn, soybean and wheat producers. Also consider utilizing the yield exclusion option where available.

This allows specific years with low

production to be dropped from crop insurance average production history yield guarantee calculations.

A reputable crop insurance agent is the best resource to find out more details of the various crop insurance coverage plans, premium quotes, and to receive assistance with 2020 crop insurance decisions.

The following are some very good web sites with crop insurance information: USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA): http://www.rma.usda.gov/; and the University of Illinois FarmDoc: http://www.farmdoc.illinois.edu/ cropins/index.asp.

Kent Thiesse is a government farm programs analyst and a vice president at MinnStar Bank in Lake Crystal, Minn. He may be reached at (507) 7262137 or kent.thiesse@minnstarbank. com. v

Growers have until Sept. 30 to update PLC yields KRAMER, from pg. 22 crop insurance option which allows the producer to obtain 86 percent areabased coverage. It is not for everyone, but is definitely something to look into with PLC. The sign-up deadline of March 15 is for 2019 and 2020. Producers will have the opportunity to change the election by farm number for crop years 20212023 in the future, on an annual basis.

The producer who had the land in 2019 will make the election for 2019 and 2020, irrespective of who is farming it in 2020.

Regardless of which program you sign up for, you also will be allowed to update your PLC yields by Sept. 30.

FSA has your current PLC yields on their 156EZ Form. This also lists what your base acres are for each farm number. Lastly, enrollment is by farm num-

Southwest Minnesota Farm Business Management Association membership is an investment in your farm’s financial success.

Personalized Benchmarking Reports On-farm Consultations Educational Opportunities Monthly Newsletters Comprehensive Financial Statement Preparation Tax Planning

Become a member today!

Visit: swfm.umn.edu Call: 507-752-5094 Email: gthillen@umn.edu

Affiliated with: The University of Minnesota Extension is an equal opportunity educator & employer.

ber unlike crop insurance, which is typically by crop, county and section and unit numbers.

The March 15 deadline to add, delete or change coverage on any crops and counties for the 2020 crop year is also fast approaching. Here are a few items to keep in mind as you meet with your crop insurance agent.

Prevent Plant Buy-Up — For most crops, a producer can add an additional 5 percent prevent plant coverage in the case of another year like last year. This would equate to receiving 60 percent of your production guarantee for any corn prevent plant acre payments and 65 percent on soybeans vs. 55 percent and 60 percent, respectively. In most areas, adding this option to your coverage is usually at a minimal cost.

SCO — As mentioned above, if electing PLC for the 2018 farm bill decision for 2019 and 2020, you can add SCO, area-based coverage, to your MPCI policy. SCO loss payments are triggered by an area (usually county). However, the amount of insurance/liability is calculated based on your individual approved actual production history. SCO covers the difference between your MPCI coverage level up to 86 percent.

County T-Yields — RMA reviewed the corn county T-yields for 2020. In

most cases, these increased and, in some counties, are quite significant. This impacts those actual production history databases which currently include county T-yields and possibly any added land for 2020, in which the county is now higher than your simple average.

Hemp — New for 2020, RMA released a crop insurance coverage option for producers growing hemp in certain states including Minnesota and Wisconsin, but not Iowa. This can be insured under an APH plan of insurance and allows for a yield-based coverage only. Many rules and procedures must be in place to insure hemp under the new program.

With the complexity of both the FSA programs and crop insurance options available, risk management can be overwhelming. Align yourself with someone you can trust to assess your needs and to help you achieve your farm operation goals for 2020. Whether working with FSA, your crop insurance agent (or hopefully both) over the course of the next few weeks, one thing is clear: you must take action as you have no time to lose.

Amy Kramer is an Insurance Training Specialist at Compeer Financial. For more insights from the Compeer team, check out compeer.com. v

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Real Estate Wanted

Real Estate

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

Feed Seed Hay

Sell your land or real estate in WANTED: Land & farms. I ALFALFA, mixed hay, grass 30 days for 0% commission. have clients looking for hay & wheat straw, mediCall Ray 507-339-1272 um square or round bales, dairy, & cash grain operadelivery available. tions, as well as bare land parcels from 40-1000 acres.

Thief River Falls, MN. Call Both for relocation & investor text LeRoy Ose: ments.

If you have even 218-689-6675 With one phone call, you can place thought about selling conyour classified line ad in The Land, tact: Paul Krueger, Farm & OPEN Pollinated Seed Corn.

Farm News and Country Today.

Land Specialist, Edina Re- Produces more high qualialty, 138 Main St. W., New ty silage on less acres than Call The Land hybrid. $67/bushel plus shipPrague, MN 55372. ping. High feed value grain. for more information paulkrueger@edinarealty.com Located at Teutopolis, IL 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 (612)328-4506 217-857-3377

One Call Does It All!

Like The Land on Facebook Farm Retirement

LOCATION: 33131 Wass Ave., Round Lake, MN 56167

AUCTION From Round Lake, MN, 2 miles south on Wass Ave.

OPENS: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18

2020

CLOSES: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 | 7PM

TILLAGE EQUIPMENT 2015 Case-IH Tigermate 200 field cultivator, 35-1/2’ AUCTIONEER’S NOTE: Randy & Mary have farmed together for 44 years and have decided to Case-IH 527B disc ripper retire. All equipment purchased new. Equipment is Sunflower 1435 disc, 30’ GRAVITY BOXES shedded and well maintained.

(2) Brent 757 gravity box MFWD TRACTORS (2) Brent 744 gravity box 2014 Ford New Holland T8.360,1,741 hrs.

Parker 2600 gravity box 2013 Ford New Holland T8.330, 2,941 hrs.

SPRAYER 2WD TRACTORS Hardi Navigator 4000 sprayer 2004 Case-IH JX65 Maxxima, 2,500 hrs.

1965 Allis Chalmers 180 wide front, 8,001 hrs., John Deere 6000 self-propelled sprayer low hrs. on engine major AUGER COMBINE & HEADS Westfield MK100-71 auger 2012 Case-IH 5130 combine, 1,167 sep. hrs., TILE EQUIPMENT 1,512 engine hrs.

Zor Plow tile plow 2012 Case-IH Terra Flex 3020 flex head, 25’ Waynes Pro bumper hitch tile cart 2012 HarvestTec 5306C chopping corn head, OTHER FARM EQUIPMENT 6x30” MISC. ITEMS PLANTER Case-IH 1240 pivot split row planter, 12x30” or 23x15” PREVIEW: By appointment LOADOUT: By appointment

SteffesGroup.com

Steffes Group, Inc. 24400 MN Hwy 22 S Litchfield, MN 55355

RANDY & MARY WILSON | RANDY 507.360.1334

or from Steffes Group, 320.693.9371,Eric Gabrielson 701.238.2570 or Ashley Huhn 701.238.1975 Complete terms, lot listings and photos at SteffesGroup.com - Eric Gabrielson MN47-006, Ashley Huhn MN47-002

PAGE 25

PAGE 26

www.thelandonline.com —�Where Farm and Family Meet�

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Steffes Auction Calendar 2020

For more info, call: 1-800-726-8609 or visit our website: SteffesGroup.com Opening February 18 & Closing February 25 Russell Trust Farm Retirement Auction, Palmer, NE, Timed Online Auction Opening February 18 & Closing February 25 at 7PM Randy & Mary Wilson Farm Retirement Auction, Round Lake, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening February 21 & Closing February 26 Online Steffes Auction - 2/26, Upper Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction Opening February 21 & Closing March 2 Chuck & Mary Brock Farm Retirement Auction, Clarkfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening February 25 & Closing March 5 at 7PM Byro Farms Retirement Auction, Winthrop, MN, Timed Online Auction Tuesday, February 25 at 12PM Quality Tested Hay Auction, Steffes Group Facility, Litchfield, MN Opening February 26 & Closing March 4 at 4PM Anoka County, MN, Rural Residential Development Land/Investment Opportunity Auction, 98Âą Acres, Elk River, MN, Timed Online Auction Thursday, February 27 at 10AM Butenhoff Farms Retirement Auction, Barnesville, MN Opening February 27 at 8AM & Closing February 27 at 12PM Ransom County, ND Land Auction - 137Âą Acres, Enderlin, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening March 2 & Closing March 10 Miles Lacs County, MN Tillable Farmland Auction - 28Âą Acres, Milaca, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening March 2 & Closing March 10 Tjosvold Equipment Auction, Granite Falls, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening March 2 & Closing March 11 Albertville, MN, Investment Opportunity Auction - 1.66Âą Acres, Albertville, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening March 2 & Closing March 11 at 7PM Tree Toad Tree Spade Auction, Steffes Group Facility, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Thursday, March 5 at 10AM Tim Brakke Farm Retirement Auction, Aneta, ND Opening March 6 & Closing March 12 Online Steffes Auction - 3/12, Upper Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction Opening March 6 & Closing March 16 Michael G. Nelson Farm Realignment Auction, Rothsay, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening March 9 & Closing March 16 at 1PM Scott Shellito Farm Retirement Auction, Moorhead, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening March 9 & Closing March 18 Meeker County, MN Tillable Farmland Auction - 52Âą Acres, Dassel, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening March 9 & Closing March 18 at 7PM Robert Gundell Farm Retirement Auction, Ogallala, NE, Timed Online Auction

Your day will go the way the corners of your mouth turn.

ONLINE ONLY

Serving Southeast Minnesota & Northern Iowa for all your Real Estate needs

FARMLAND

Fillmore County: NEW LISTING Approx. 165 Acres, Spring Valley Twp Olmsted County: Approx. 132 acres Rock Dell Twp Olmsted County: Approx. 106 acres High Forest Twp Mower County: Approx. 121 acres SE edge of Austin

NEED FARMLAND LISTINGS – HAVE BUYERS! COMMERCIAL Racine: Completely remodeled 10,000 sq ft building on 2.12 acres.

Many possible uses including event center, daycare, offices, retail.

Stewartville: SOLD Great retail/commercial space in desirable location close to I-90 & Rochester. 8000+ sq ft with ample parking. Many possibly uses.

Need assistance with Rental Rates, Government Programs or Environmental Issues? Call us for your Farm Management needs!

Randy Queensland • 507-273-3890 • randy@lrmrealestate.com Ryan Queensland • 507-273-3000 • ryan@lrmrealestate.com

Grand Meadow, MN • www.lrmrealestate.com 507-754-5815 • 800-658-2340

Outstanding No-Reserve Farm Machinery Auction MATT MARING

CO. The Chappuis have sold their dairy herd. Therefore, they shall sell all their farm machinery listed below.

Auction Location: 17440 Gary Trail, Faribault MN 55021

Sat., March 7, 2020

10:00 A.M. CST. – Complete Details, Photos & Online Bidding at

www.maringauction.com

(5) John Deere Tractors

‘11 JD 8285R MFWD, 1,799 Act. One Owner Hrs, 480/80R/50, ILS, Rear Wheel Weights, GS 3 Screen, Powershift, Leather, 22 Front Weights, SN: PO44187; ‘10 JD7330 MFWD, 3,280 Hrs, Power Quad, 480/80/R38, 3hyd, PTO, LH Reverser, SN: K015326; 2010 JD 741 Hyd. Loader w/Bucket; ‘09 JD 7330 P, 2WD, 2,034 Hrs, Power Quad, LH Reverser, 3hyd., 3pt, PTO, SN: K008136; ‘96 JD 7200, 2WD, Open Station, Quad, PTO, 2hyd, 3pt, SN: S004348; JD 4430, 2WD, PS, 9,615 Hrs, 18.4-38, 2hyd, 3pt, PTO, Rear End & Trans. Updates w/Paperwork, SN: 070344; JD Wheel Weights, Quick Hitch, Weight Brackets

Hagedorn 5290 Hydro-Spread; NH 354 Mill

Hagedorn 5290 Hydro-Spread Extravert Spreader, Vertical Beater, Front Guard, 22.5 Floater Tires, Looks New, SN: 6616; NH 354 Mixer Mill, Hyd. Drive, Long Auger

JD 3975 Forage Harvester; Meyers Boxes; CIH Blower

‘10 JD 3975 Forage Harvester, Horning Crop Processor, Intelligaurd, Hyd. Spout & Tongue, 1000PTO, SN: TAA360254; JD Corn Head (Green) 3 Row 30â€?; JD 7’ Hay Head (Green) ; (2) Meyers 4516 TSS Forage Boxes, 16’ Unload Extension w/Meyers 1200 Tandem Running Gear; Meyers 3516 TSS Forage Box 16’, Unload Extensions w/Meyers 1200 Tandem Running Gear; Meyers 500 TSS 16’ Forage Box w/Meyers 1200 Tandem Running Gear; Case IH 600 Silage Blower 540PTO; Richardson 750 Hyd. Dump Box, 750 Cubic Feet, 22.5 Tires, Roof Terms: Cash or check. All sales are ďŹ nal. All sales are selling as-is, where is. No warranty or guarantee expressed or implied. All items shall be paid for in full the day of the auction.

15 days to remove. All machinery is owned free and clear of any encumbrances.

Olivia, MN

Over 600 Lots

COMPLETE LIQUIDATION

AUCTION

Begins Noon Friday, Feb. 14, 2020 Closes 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, 2020 Last lot to close at 9 p.m. Pick-up Only!

Inspection date: Thurs.,Feb. 20 • 1-4 p.m.

Including: Industrial Mitsubishi Model FG 35 gas forklift, 2012 P&J 32’ tandem dual gooseneck equipment trailer, Artic Cat snowmobile & 4-wheeler. Lots of dimensional lumber and plywood, siding, trim, doors & windows, drill bits & brand new store inventory and hardware building supplies, paint inventory including shaker and mixer and much more!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------For full listing, more information, check out our website at:

www.henslinauctions.com

HENSLIN AUCTIONS, INC. License #65-25 • 320-365-4120 100 Main Street, BIRD ISLAND, MN 55310 Allen Henslin • 65-57 FrAnk roering • 320-290-8490 lADon Henslin • BrAD DAllmAnn

NH, JD & CIH Haying Equipment

‘15 NH 313 Mow Max II Center Pivot Discbine, 1000PTO, 12’, Rubber Rolls, SN: YEN252363; JD 468 Round Baler, Mega Wide Plus, Cover Edge, 8,781 Bales, Net Or Twine, SN: X353274; H&S BF14HC 14 Wheel Hi-Capacity Rake, SN: 515876; NH 166 Inverter, Hydraulic Drive, Like New; Gehl 1160 Merger 30� Belt, Vari Speed, Front Tractor Mount, Fits 8000 Series JD; (4) Meyers And H & S 16’ Bale Throw Racks On Gears

Excellent Tillage Machinery & Related Items

New Holland DMI ST770 Ripper, 5 Shank, Double Disc Front, Rear Levelers; Wil-Rich 3400 Field Cultivator, 32.5’, 14’ Main Frame, 4 Bar Harrow; JD 2810 5 Bottom Plow, Vari-Width, Auto Reset, In-Furrow; IH 475 Disc, Hyd. Fold, Scrapers; CIH Model 60 Stalk Shredder, 14’ 1000PTO; JD Van Brunt 12’ Drill, Hyd. Lift, Grass Seeder

CIH Heads, Dryer, Augers & Grain Cart

Butler Grain Dryer Model 8-13-10, 233 Bushel Cap., LP Gas, Single Phase, Transports, Always Shedded; Parker 450 Grain Cart, 1000PTO, 23.1-26 Tires; Westfield MK100-71 Swing Hopper Auger, Hyd. Lift, 540 PTO; Westfield 50’ x 8� Auger, 10hp Motor; Farm King 50’ x 8� Auger, PTO; Farm King 60’ x 8� Auger; 2008 CIH 1020, 25’ Bean Head w/Air Reel; Winco 30’ Head Trailer 4 Wheel; ‘10 Case IH 2606 Chopping Corn Head, Hyd. Deck Plates, Poly, Clean, Field Tracker; IHC 810 Pickup Head 5 Belt

Farm Related Items

(14) Poly Square Nurseries; (12) Poly Calf Domes; 1,000 Gal Fuel Tank

Viewing Days March 4th 7th 9:00 AM 6:00 PM The Chappuis family were excellent farmers and have always been known for giving attention to all details. All machinery has been shedded and very well maintained.

www.maringauction.com

Lorne Chappuis & Amy Chappuis

/WNERS 3ELLERS s ,ORNE #ELL

We Sell the Earth & Everything On It.

MATT MARING AUCTION CO. INC. PO Box 37, Kenyon, MN 55946 507-789-5421 • 800-801-4502

Matt Maring, Lic. #25-28 • 507-951-8354

--

Bins & Buildings

Farm Equipment

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

Farm Equipment

Farm Equipment

Farm Equipment

PAGE 27 Farm Equipment

Barn and Quonset Roofing and Straightening.

Also polebarn repair and giving more head room.

Kelling Silo. 1-800-355-2598

‘05 Hardi Navigator 1000M FOR SALE: JD 2210 38 1/2’ FOR SALE: JD combine 7720, JD 2210 L.L. 38.5’ field cult, JD 4640, Cab, Air, Power Shift, Sprayer, 60’ All Hydraulic field cult, very nice, $23,500; 3800 hrs, shedded, excel- single pt depth control, 3 8,300 hours, 18x42 Axle DuBoom, Foamer and Monitor, JD 200 crumbler, 39’, like lent shape; JD pickup head, bar harrow, $17,900; JD 1760 als, New Cab Interior, Runs Nice Shape, $6,950/OBO. 815- new, $15,000; JD 1750 8R30” $1,500; New Holland 311 bal- 12x30 hyd wing fold plant- and Drives Good, $15,900. planter, e-sets, wave seed er, shedded, excellent shape, er, 3 bu boxes, Yetter float- 815-988-2074 988-2074 ing T.W. HD down pressure tubes, Air Command down- $5,000. 507-524-4637 We buy SALE: JD 1765 12R30 pressure system, 2020 monsprings, 250 mon, $12,750; Classified Line Ads FOR Salvage Equipment planter, Seed Star II, row itor, low acres, very nice, Harms Mfg. Land Rollers, JD 1075 running gear, 12.5x16 Parts Available New, 12’-$6,800; tires, $1,150; IH 756 gas traccommand, L. fertilizer w/ $23,500; Loftness stalk chop- Brand Hammell Equip., Inc. Yetter openers, 1700 acres; per, like new, $15,000. 320- 14’-$7,000; 16’-$8,000; 24’- tor, HDWF, 3pt fenders, Call 507-345-4523 (507)867-4910 $14,800; 32’-$17,500; 42’- $4,250; 3pt 9’ blade, hyd adHardi 750 sprayer, 60’ w/ all 424-1601 $21,500. Others from 8’-62’. justable, $1,750. 320-769-2756 WANTED TO BUY: 5,000 to options. 320-360-1240 Please recycle this magazine.

715-234-1993 10,000 bu cone bottom bins.

Shop online at Sell your farm equipment 507-327-6430

WORK!

Stormor Bins & EZ-Drys.

100% financing w/no liens or red tape, call Steve at Fairfax Ag for an appointment.

888-830-7757

H HHHHHHHHHHHH H H H WEEKLY H H AUCTION H H H Every Wednesday H H H Hay & Straw H H 4:30 PM H H Homestead H H H H Sales, Inc. H H HWY 15 N, HUTCHINSON, MN H H H 320-433-4250 H H homesteadsalesinc.com H H HHHHHHHHHHHH H

TheLandOnline.com

in The Land with a line ad.

507-345-4523

LOCATED: E5210 1040th Avenue, Wheeler, Wisconsin.

Land Specialists

Sealed Bid Land Auction Friday, February 28 Mary L. Pfeffer Farm . 75.62 ± acres

Beauford Township, Blue Earth County For a property brochure call 1-800-730-LAND (5263) or visit www.WingertRealty.com

Charles Wingert, Broker # 07-53 . Adam Knewtson, Agent 1160 South Victory Drive Suite 6, Mankato MN 56001

FARM RETIREMENT

ANETA, ND

THURSDAY, MARCH 5 | 10AM

2020

r

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

AUCTIONEER’S NOTE: Major equipment begins selling at 11AM. Live online bidding available on major equipment.

Registration, terms, & details at SteffesGroup.com.

LOCATION: From Main Street in Aneta, ND on the east edge of town, 1-3/4 mile southeast on County Road 7, followed by 3/4 mile east on County Road 7, north side of road; or from Sharon, ND, 4 miles north on County Road 7, followed by 2 miles west on County Road 7.

INCLUDES: 4WD Tractors, MFWD & 2WD Tractors, Combine, Heads, Swathers, Air Seeder, Sprayers & Sprayer Trailer, Tillage Equipment, Semi Tractors, Box Trucks & Tanker Trucks, Hopper Bottom Trailers, Drop Deck, Implement & Header Trailers, NH3 Equipment, Grain Handling Equipment, Other Equipment, Pickup, Tires & Parts

SteffesGroup. com Steffes Group, Inc., 2000 Main Avenue East, West Fargo, ND

TIM BRAKKE | Scott Huso, 701.789.9800 At Steffes Group, 701.237.9173, contact Brad Olstad, 701.238.0240 or Tadd Skaurud 701.729.3644

TERMS: All items sold as is where is. Payment of cash or check must be made sale day before removal of items. Statements made auction day take precedence over all advertising. $35 documentation fee applies to all titled vehicles. Titles will be mailed. Canadian buyers need a bank letter of credit to facilitate border transfer. Brad Olstad ND319

EXCELLENT LARGE JD EQUIPMENT SPECIAL CORVETTE & HARLEY ON-LINE AUCTION BIDDING: Sale starts to end on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at 7:30 PM. www.hagerauction.com OPEN HOUSE: February 29, March 1 and March 4 from 10:00-2:00.

NOTE: Bill was a very successful, well respected farmer. Meticulous in every aspect. machinery has been through the shop and is field ready. Many 1-owner items with low hours. You can buy with complete confidence!

3 SHARP LOW-HOURED JD TRACTORS - JD 4455 Tractor only 2926 hours, JD 4455 Tractor, new 18.4-42 rubber, 4896 actual hours; JD 3020 D Tractor, PS, 3 pt.

2 JD COLLECTOR TRACTORS: JD G Tractor, restored, JD A Tractor, restored.

SPRING EQUIPMENT: 2013 JD DB 66 Planter, 36 Row, 22” Row Command, in furrow fertilizer, precision e-set meters, only 563 hours; 2012 Salford 570 RTS, 41' Verticle Till, 7” spacings; Great Plains 4000 Turbo Max, 40'; Krause TL6200 45' Soil Finisher; Case 870 13 Shank Ripper; JD 2100 9 Shank inline Ripper, Like New; Friesen Seed Express 240RT w/Trailer; (2) Semi Drop Deck w/poly tanks, pump; Case IH 800 SAR 12 Bottom On-Land Hitch Plow; JD 22' Rotary Hoe; (2) Lilliston 24 Row Rolling Cultivators; (2) Elmer’s 18/22 Row Cultivators; JD 235 30' Dura-Cushion Disk; Concord 1100 Air Cart.

SPECIAL CORVETTE CONVERTIBLE & HARLEY: 1960 Corvette Convertible, 15,021 miles, has hard top; '12 Harley Davidson Tri-Glide Ultra Classic Trike, 3,600 Miles.

TRUCKS: Mack E7-460 Elite CL Quad Axle Grain Truck; Volvo Semi Tractor; Chevy 2500 HD Service Truck, auto, 4x4, 92,000 miles; 1985 GMC Grain Truck w/20' Box; 2005 GMC 2500 SLE Pickup, 57,000 miles; 2005 GMC 2500 4x4 D Pickup, 222,000 miles; 2004 Chevy Truck, 2500, 143,000 miles; Tempe Grain Hopper Bottom; Wilson Beaver Tail Trailer.

TRACK GRAIN CARTS: Brent 1084 Avalanche Track Grain Cart w/ Roll Tarp; Brent 1194 Track Grain Cart w/ scale & roll tarp.

JD HEADS: JD 612C Chopping Corn Head, 12R 22”; JD 618C Chopping Corn Head; EZ Trail 672 Head Cart, 22'; Unverferth HT25 Head Cart.

FORKLIFT: Cat T80D STR Forklift, sideshift, 3 stage, 8000# Lift.

AUGERS & BELT CONVEYORS: Westfield MKX130-114 Auger; Westfield MK 100-71 Auger w/swing auger; (5) Batch Belt Conveyors.

JD GPS EQUIPMENT: Starfire Monitors & Radios.

FARM MACHINERY & MISC: JD Batwing HX15 Rotary Mower; 8' Dakon Twin Auger 3pt Snow Blower; DMI 3200 3 pt 12RN Folding Tool Bar w/ No-till Coulters.

EX RIDING MOWER: 2015 JD X730 Riding Lawn Mower, 168 hours.

RECREATIONAL ITEMS: Arista Craft 12' Wood Boat & Trailer; Merc 300 Boat Motor; 2000 Polaris 600 Snowmobile; Alum Snowmobile Trailer; (2) Jet Skis - Polaris SL1050 & Sea-Doo; Alum Jet Ski Trailer.

TERMS: 5% Buyer’s fee. Cash or bankable check.

SEE FULL LISTING: www.hagerauction.com WILLIAM (BILL) BESKAR ESTATE PAULINE BESKAR - Owner

WHEELER, WISCONSIN SALE CONDUCTED BY: HAGER AUCTION SERVICE 715-273-4638 BARRY HAGER & TIM PRUSAK,Reg WI Auctioneers #105 & 479

PAGE 28

www.thelandonline.com —”Where Farm and Family Meet”

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Employment Opportunity: Farm Business Management Field Staff GUN SHOW - FORT DODGE, IOWA. February 22 & 23, 2020.

Sponsored by The Rifle & Pistol Club, Webster County Fair Grounds.

Info contact Al Little @ 515-5700827. (MCN)

Struggling With Your Private Student Loan Payment? New relief programs can reduce your payments. Learn your options. Good credit not necessary.

Call the Helpline 855-238-4594 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Eastern). (MCN)

NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book. FREE author submission kit! Limited offer! Why wait?

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CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer.

Competitive Offer! Nationwide FREE Pick Up! Call Now For a Free Quote! 888-366-5659 (MCN)

FOR SALE: 2016 John Deere Combine- Model S670, excellent condition, 600 separator hours, well equipped. Located in Southern Minnesota. 507-236-6538 (MCN)

Become a published author!

Publications sold at all major secular & specialty Christian bookstores.

CALL Christian Faith Publishing for your FREE author submission kit.

1-888-981-5761. (MCN)

DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CALL 1-855-977-7030 (MCN)

Trailer Sale: New 82”X16’+4’ 14,000lb. with fold-over spring assist ramps skidloader trailer $4,499.00; 100”X26’ Electric tilt (deck extensions, tool box, 10,000lb. winch & box, 12k hyd jack, spare tire & mount, Super Duty Driveover fenders (2) batteries); 6’X12’ Cargo V-nose ramp door $3,299.00; 7’X16’ V-nose ramp door $5,199.00; 3 Horse Slant (Aluminum) was $15,599.00 NOW $12,399.00; 15 models of DUMP trailers; www.

FortDodgeTrailerWorld.com. 515972-4554. (MCN)

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The Southwest Minnesota Farm Business Management Association is seeking an individual for long-term, part-time professional contract work. This person will provide farm financial management education, consultation, financial analysis, and tax expertise to member farms. Experience in or the ability to obtain training in tax planning and tax preparation by November 2020 is required. The work is seasonal in nature and scheduling is flexible, with the majority of the work during the winter and early spring. On-farm consultations also occur in late summer. Travel is required within an approximately ten-county service area.

For a more detailed description or to apply, send a cover letter, resume and contact information for 3 references to: gthillen@umn.edu or call Gretchen at 507-752-5094.

Review of applications will begin March 27, 2020

Tractors FOR SALE: JD 4440 with 5600 hrs, power shift, clean tractor with duals, would trade for a 4240 w/ 34” tires. Call 507-359-3065 FOR SALE: IH 5488, MFD, very nice. 320-292-4284 NEW AND USED TRACTOR PARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 55, 50 Series & newer tractors, AC-all models, Large Inventory, We ship! Mark Heitman Tractor Salvage 715-673-4829 WANTED TO BUY: 4250 or 4255 JD Tractor, a low hour tractor. (320) 630-7220

Your ad could be here!

507-345-4523

Southwest Minnesota Farm Business Management Association is an equal opportunity employer.

USED TRACTORS

NEW NH T4.75, T4.90, T4.120 w/loader.. ...... On Hand NEW NH Workmaster 60, 50, 35’s/loaders ... On Hand NEW NH T9.645 ............................................. On Hand NH TL100 w/cab ................................................22,500 NEW Versatile 570DT trac ..................................... Sold NEW Massey 4710 w/cab and loader ........... On Hand NEW Massey 4710 rops/loader ..................... On Hand NEW Massey 6713 w/cab and loader ........... On Hand NEW Massey 1735 w/cab and loader ................... Sold Massey 8690 CVT.............................................Coming Massey 1552 w/loader .................................... $21,500 ‘13 NH T8.275, 495 hrs ................................. $133,000 ‘12 Buhler 280..................................................$99,500 ‘09 Versatile 435 3000 hrs ............................ $128,000 ‘08 NH 8010 .................................................... $99,500 ‘08 Agco DT180 CVT...................................... $89,500 ‘07 Massey 1533 ............................................. $11,000 ‘03 Versatile 2310, PS ..................................... $79,500 ‘96 White 6175 FWA....................................... $41,500 ‘96 White 6175 2wd ........................................ $29,500

TILLAGE

‘14 Sunflower 4412-05.....................................$30,000 ‘13 Wilrich QX2 60’FC w/Bskt......................... $47,500 ‘10 Wilrich QX2 37’ w/basket.......................... $38,500 ‘09 Wilrich QX 55’5 w/bskt.............................. $37,500 ‘05 CIH 730b cush. w/leads............................ $16,500 JD 512 9-24 blades ......................................... $12,500 JD 512 7-30 blades ............................................$8,500 Krause 6164 24” .............................................. Coming

PLANTERS

‘15 White 9816FS 16-30 w/Agleader .............. $75,000 ‘12 White 8186, 16-30 w/liq. fert. .................... $53,000 ‘12 White 8524-30 CFS. ......................................... Sold ‘11 White 8516 CFS, Loaded .......................... $70,000 ‘06 White 8516 cfs .......................................... $45,000 ‘06 White 8186 w/fert ........................................coming ‘95 White 6722 loaded .................................... $11,500 White 6122 w/bean unit ................................. $12,500

HAY TOOLS New NH Hay Tools - ON HAND

CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NEW NH E26C mini excavator ...................... On Hand NEW NH track & wheeled skidsteers............ On Hand NEW NH L228/L220/L232 wheeled units ...... On Hand NEW NH C227/C237 track units.................... On Hand 17’ NHL234 cab H/A ....................................... $32,000 2-’12 NH 225 C/H ..............................................coming Bobcat 642B ......................................................$7,800

COMBINES NEW Fantini chopping cornhead ........................... Call ‘15 Gleaner S88 ............................................ $230,000 ‘12 Gleaner S77 ............................................ $200,000 ‘03 Gleaner R65, CDF ..................................... $85,000 ‘98 Gleaner R62 .............................................. $62,000 ‘98 Gleaner R62 .............................................. $59,000 Geringhoff parts & heads available

MISCELLANEOUS NEW Salford RTS Units .......................................... Call NEW Salford Plows................................................. Call NEW Unverferth Seed Tenders .............................. Call NEW Westfield Augers ........................................... Call NEW REM VRX Vacs. .............................................. Call NEW Hardi Sprayers............................................... Call NEW Riteway Rollers .............................................. Call NEW Lorenz Snowblowers ..................................... Call NEW Batco Conveyors ........................................... Call NEW Brent Wagons & Grain Carts ......................... Call NEW E-Z Trail Seed Wagons .................................. Call NEW Rock Buckets & Pallet Forks ......................... Call REM 2700, Rental ................................................... Call Pre-Owned Grain Cart ................................... On Hand New Horsch Jokers ....................................... On Hand

Thank You For Your Business!

(507) 234-5191 (507) 625-8649

smithsmillimp.com Hwy. 14, 3 miles West of Janesville, MN

Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:00 • Sat. 7:30-Noon

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

WANTED

Planting Equip

6002004 JD Bauer built DB44 rac- MaxEmerge XP row, draw ade bar pull planter, 500 gal Call tank, liq starter in furrow, E-sets, Yetter row cleaners, brown box controller, w/ inFD, secticide. 320-583-5324

FOR SALE: Older MinnesoOR ta 250 gravity wagon with 50, Sudenga hydraulic driven rac- brush auger, 10 ton running rge gear, Syntex roll tarp, reason ark for selling, Retired, $1,500. J. age Pemble 507-381-7097

DAMAGED GRAIN STATEWIDE

1-800-828-6642

Upcoming Issues of THE LAND

FOR SALE: 570 NH baler, w/ thrower, 50’ Hayrite bale conveyor, both like new, always shedded. 507-732-4415

Grain Handling Equipment Continuous Flow Grain Dryer Wanted To Buy. (320) 6307220 FOR SALE: 2010 Westfield MK100-61 auger, good paint, nice condition, foam filled swing hopper tires, $5,000.

Reason for selling, Retired. John Pemble, East of Mankato. 507-381-7097 FOR SALE: 2020 Neville built aluminum grain trailers, 38.5’, new condition. For photo and information call or text 218-791-3400

Classified line ads work!

507-345-4523

Southern MNNorthern IA March 6, 2020 March 20, 2020 April 3, 2020 April 17, 2020

*

CM, chopper, 650x38 tires & duals ................... $179,000 ‘14 JD 680, 2211 Eng/1561 sep hrs, ‘13 JD 660, 892/1180 CM, chopper duals.............. $129,000 ‘04 JD 9760, 2268/3460 CM, chopper duals............ $50,000 ‘01 JD 9650 STS, 3014/4325 CM, chopper, duals .... $37,000 ‘00 JD 9650 STS, 2645/3623 chopper, duals ............ $37,000 ‘01 JD 9750 STS, 3013/4156 CM, chopper, duals .... $39,000 ‘14 Case/IH 5130, 660/926, Tracker, Rt, chopper ... $125,000 ‘11 Case/IH 8120, 1650/2250 Tracker, Rt, chopper, duals ................................................ $89,500

‘10 Case/IH 7120, 1650/2250 Tracker, Rt, chopper, duals ................................................ $89,500 ‘09 Case/IH 7088, 1275/1807 Tracker, Rt, chopper, duals ................................................ $87,000

If you’re having a Farm Auction, let other Farmers know it!

4710 JD self propelled sprayer, 90’ booms, triple nozzles, 5 section shut offs, foamer, brown box controller, 3800 hrs, 380/90R46 tires, and 650/65R38 floater tires, exc shape. Will sell floaters separate. 507-220-5153

ROW CROP TRACTORS

Rt, chopper, duals ................................................ $89,500

PRUESS ELEV., INC.

Spraying Equip

COMBINES ‘15 JD 690, 4x4, 1745/1160 sep hrs,

‘14 NH T8330, 2140 hrs, MFWD 1000 pts, 3 pt 4 Valves, 380x54 rear tires & duals, 320x42 front tires & duals ..................................... $95,000

CORN HEADERS

‘09 Drago 6R, 30” chopping fits JD .......................... $17,500 ‘06 Drago 8R, 30” chopping fits Case/IH Flagship ................................................................ $14,500 ‘13 Case/IH 3408 8R, 30” for Flagship ...................... $19,500 ‘02 Case/IH 2208 8R, 30” fits 1400-2000 series combines ................................................... $11,000 Case/IH 1083 8R, 30”................................................... $7,900

WHEEL LOADERS

‘11 Case/IH 7120, 1610/2200 Tracker,

CALL FOR A QUOTE TODAY

JD 7000 Corn Planter, 2 Row 3PT, $1,800; Fert. Avail. $350/Row. 715-234-1993

PAGE 29

CM, chopper, 650x38 duals ............................... $109,000

We pay top dollar for your damaged grain. We are experienced handlers of your wet, dry, burnt and mixed grains.

Trucks and vacs available.

Immediate response anywhere.

FOR SALE: JD LLA press or grain drill, always shedded. our 320-894-9707

Hay & Forage Equipment

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

Northern MN Feb. 28, 2020 March 13, 2020 March 27, 2020 April 10, 2020 April 24, 2020

Deadline is 8 days prior to publication.

Indicates early deadline, 9 days prior to publication.

4WD TRACTORS ‘90 Ford 876, 8523 hrs duals .................................... $24,500 ‘15’ Case/lH 370 HD, 895 hrs, 1000 PTO, 480x50 tires & duals .......................................... $169,000 ‘14 Case/IH 370 HD, 7065 hrs, 1000 PTO duals ....... $75,000 ‘08 Case Steiger 435, 2460 hrs, power-shift, complete

‘18 JD 824K II, ride control, 7847 hrs, 6.25 yd bucket, warranty left.............................................................. $155,000 ‘14 JD 724 K, 9587 hrs, third valve, w/ medford pipe forks................................................... ................ $82,000 ‘13 JD 644 K, 5520 hrs, quick coupler, 4.25 yd bucket, new tires ................................................................... $115,000 ‘15 Volvo 90G, 4927 hrs, quick coupler & bkt ................ $89,000 ‘12 Cat 938K, 6854 hrs, quick coupler & bkt ................. $89,000 ‘09 Cat 938H, 7174 hrs, quick coupler & bkt ................. $69,000 ‘16 Komotsu WA 270-7, 8193 hrs, quick coupler, 4 yd bucket ................................................................ $75,000 ‘16 Komotsu WA 320-7, 6936 hrs, quick coupler, 3.5 yd bucket ............................................................. $83,000 ‘14 Komotsu WA 470-7, 11223 hrs, w/ pipe forks, w/top clamp ............................................................... $72,000

auto steer system, 800x38 duals... .................... $108,000

TRACK TRACTORS ‘14 Case 350 Rowtrac, 1865 hrs, 120” spacing, 1000 PTO ............................................ $149,000

TRACTOR LOADER BACKHOES ‘11 Case 580N, 4x4 cab 2540 hrs ............................. $42,000

EXCAVATORS ‘15 Cat 323 FL, 3768 hrs, 40” bkt wired for grade control ...................................................... $125,000 ‘14 Komotsu PC 138US-10, 1881 hrs, quick coupler, 42” bkt, hyd thumb ..................................................... $89,000 ‘11 JD 290GLC, 3347 hrs, 12’6” stick, 42” bucket .......................................................... $110,000 ‘11 Case CX300C, 2658 hrs, 12’ stick, 54” bucket .. $110,000

SMALL EXCAVATORS

TILLAGE

PO Box 3169 • Mankato, MN 56002 Phone: 507-345-4523 or 800-657-4665 Fax: 507-345-1027 Website: www.TheLandOnline.com e-mail: theland@TheLandOnline.com Ask Your Auctioneer to Place Your Auction in The Land!

JD 512, 5 shank disc ripper ........................................ $8,500 ‘10 Wishek 862NT-30, disc 30’ rock flex, good blades .......................................................... $24,000

‘17 Case CX57C, cab & air, 333 hrs rubber tracks ........................................................ $50,000 ‘11 Bobcat E45EM, cab & air, 2965 hrs, rubber tracks ........................................................ $30,000

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

Look at our website for pictures & more listings: www.larsonimplements.com

HAVE YOU RETURNED YOUR 2020 SUBSCRIPTION CARD YET?

The Land subscription card was inserted in January. If you haven’t already sent it back, please do it soon. If your card was missing you can call the office at 507-345-4523 to request a new one or you can fill one out online. Visit our website at www.thelandonline.com.

YOU COULD WIN $400.00!

On March 6, 2020 there will be a drawing from all of the subscription cards that we recieved in 2020 and one lucky subscriber will win $400.00. No purchase necessary.

THANK YOU FOR READING THE LAND! We appreciate it!

PAGE 30

www.thelandonline.com —”Where Farm and Family Meet”

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

irst Your F or f Choice ds! ie Classif

Place d Your A Today!

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 following options: Phone: 507-345-4523 or 1-800-657-4665 Mail to: The Land Classifieds, P.O. Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56002 Fax to: 507-345-1027 • Email: theland@TheLandOnline.com 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.

South Central Minnesota’s Daily News Source

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THE FREE PRESS

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• Reach over 150,000 readers • Start your ad in The Land • Add more insertions • Get more coverage

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:  Announcements  Employment  Real Estate  Real Estate Wanted  Farm Rentals  Auctions  Agri Business  Farm Services  Sales & Services  Merchandise  Antiques & Collectibles  Lawn & Garden  Feed Seed Hay  Fertilizer & Chemicals  Bins & Buildings  Farm Equipment  Tractors  Tillage Equipment  Planting Equipment  Spraying Equipment

 Hay & Forage Equipment  Harvesting Equipment  Grain Handling Equipment  Livestock Equipment  Wanted  Free & Give Away  Livestock  Poultry  Dairy  Cattle  Swine  Sheep  Goats  Horses & Tack  Exotic Animals  Pets & Supplies  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!!

THE LAND (Includes 1 Southern & 1 Northern issue)

1 run @ $19.99 = _____________________________ 2 runs @ $34.99 = _____________________________ 3 runs @ $44.99 = _____________________________

Each additional line (over 7) + $1.40 per line per issue = _____________________________ EXTENDED COVERAGE - must run the same number of times as The Land FARM NEWS (FN) - Serving farmers in Northwest Iowa, 21,545 circ.

THE COUNTRY TODAY (CT) - Serving farmers in Wisconsin, 21,000 circ.

THE FREE PRESS (FP) - Serving south central Minnesota, 19,025 circ.

PAPER(S) ADDED (circle all options you want): FN CT FP $7.70 for each paper and $7.70 run each issues x $7.70 = _____________________________ STANDOUT OPTIONS (THE LAND only) $2.00 per run: = _____________________________  Bold  Italic  Underline  Web/E-mail links

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This is NOT for businesses. Please call The Land to place line ads.

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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 week’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.

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020 Wanted

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

Swine

Miscellaneous

All kinds of New & Used farm Spot, Duroc, Chester White, WANTED FREON R12. We equipment - disc chisels, field Boars & Gilts available. pay CA$H. R12 R500 R11. cults, planters, soil finishers, Monthly PRRS and PEDV. Convenient. Certified profescornheads, feed mills, discs, Delivery available. Steve sionals. 312-291-9169 balers, haybines, etc. 507- Resler. 507-456-7746 RefrigerantFinders.com/ad 438-9782 Winpower Sales & Service WANTED TO BUY: Kinze 12R Reliable Power Solutions Miscellaneous wide planter, 7000, 7100; IH Since 1925 PTO & automatic tractor, 686, 786, 986, 1086, Emergency Electric Gener1486, 4386, 88 Series. Need PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS ators. New & Used repair is okay. JD 6600, 7700, New pumps & parts on hand.

Rich Opsata-Distributor 6620 7720, 8820 or 9500, 9600 Call Minnesota’s largest dis800-343-9376 tributor combines. 320-760-6050 HJ Olson & Company Looking for WANTED: Self propelled 320-974-8990 Cell - 320-212-5336 windrower/discbine. Preferably 14-16’ header. Must be nice. 763-286-2868

WANTED: Case IH Tigermate 200 field cultivator, from 30’ to 34’ in length. 320-492-4630

PAGE 31

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 week’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.

something special?

REINKE IRRIGATION Sales & Service New & Used For your irrigation needs 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073

Why not place a “want” ad in The Land classifieds?

Call The Land today!

507-345-4523 or 1-800-657-4665

Livestock FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred Kemen 320-598-3790

Cattle Purebred Black Angus Bred Heifers to Aged Cows, Excellent Quality and Disposition, High Value Marketing Plan available. 651-764-1281

Swine FOR SALE: Yorkshire, Hampshire, Duroc & Hamp/Duroc boars, also gilts. Excellent selection. Raised outside.

Exc herd health. No PRSS. Delivery avail. 320-760-0365

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

MANDAKO 12’-60’ LONG ROLLERS

FOR THE BEST DEAL ORDER NOW!

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

ADVERTISER LISTING Agri Systems/Systems West .................................................. 19 American Angus ................................................................... 10 Anderson Seeds ...................................................................... 4 Asbestos Disease LLC .......................................................... 20 Beck's Hybrids ....................................................................... 1 Broskoff Structures .............................................................. 14 Courtland Waste Handling .................................................... 13 Factory Home Center ............................................................. 6 Farm City Hub Club ............................................................... 7 Freudenthal Dairy ................................................................ 12 Greenwald Farm Center ........................................................ 31 Grizzly Buildings Inc ........................................................... 18 Hager Auction ...................................................................... 27 Henslin Auctions Inc ............................................................ 26 Homestead Sales .................................................................. 27 Land Resource Management ................................................. 26 Larson Brothers Implement .................................................. 29 Litzau Farm Drainage & Boring .............................................. 5 Matt Maring Auction Co ....................................................... 26 Minnwest Bank ...................................................................... 3 Nachurs Alpine Solutions ....................................................... 9 North American Farm and Power Show ................................. 17 Northland Buildings ............................................................... 7 Pruess Elevator Inc .............................................................. 29 Schweiss Doors .................................................................... 31 Skarpohl Pressure Washer ...................................................... 8 Smiths Mill Implement Inc ................................................... 28 Southwest MN Farm Business ..........................................24, 28 Southwest MN K-Fence ........................................................ 11 Spanier Welding ................................................................... 15 Steffes Group ............................................................ 25, 26, 27 Wieman Land & Auction Co, Inc .......................................... 25 Wingert Realty & Land Services .......................................... 27 YMT Vacations .................................................................... 16

507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 PO Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56001 www.thelandonline.com

PAGE 32

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

THE LAND — FEBRUARY 21/FEBRUARY 28, 2020

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

S

Man of steel

am Spiczka, aka Sculptor Sam, doesn’t get it. He doesn’t understand why people think steel is rigid.

Sam, who has been making steel flow and bend since he was a little boy working in his dad’s Sauk Rapids, Minn. metal working shop, sees steel as being like plastic or water. With some heat mixed with imagination, steel can stand on its hind legs and do tricks.

“That’s both a good thing and a bad thing,” Sam, who has a sculpture park outside his rural Sauk Rapids studio and home, said.

“Sometimes people ask me if my work is made from wood. When they learn it’s made from steel, they are sometimes disappointed.

Some people expect steel to have a certain look.”

But plenty of people do get it and have been delighted by his work.

Sculptor Sam has his work installed from California to Texas to Ohio and in between.

In 2018, Sam was the only American invited to Icheon in South Korea. There, under a tent, sculptors from around the world worked outdoors in a park to create works for the city’s large sculpture park.

“People came to the park and watched us work,” he said.

Sam has developed a bit of a specialty in sculpting

human hands from steel. In 2016, Sam lost all four fingers of his left hand in a lawn mower accident.

That got him to thinking about hands. He’s made a number of them since then. Not surprisingly, many of the sculpted hands have long beautiful fingers.

“The Minnesota State Arts Board recently commissioned me to do a new hand series,” he said.

Some of those hands will be installed in downtown St. Cloud this winter.

Lately, Sam has also been developing some functional art.

“Most of my sculptures are pretty to look at, but you can’t use them for anything,” Sam said. “Recently I designed a line of tables and lamps.”

The tables have a round wooden top and fabricated steel legs. The legs have that same flowing seamless look that so many of Sam’s sculptures have. He sells the tables and a line of electric lamps from his studio, at shows around the country, and on-line from etsy.com.

Sam’s sculpture park is open to the public. There you’ll see examples of steel misbehaving. The airborne ladder, for example, doesn’t look like steel or wood. You’ll want to make an appointment, however. Sam is often traveling to install a new sculpture. You can reach him at samspiczka@hotmail.com. v

Sauk Rapids, Minn.

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THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

© 2020

Feb. 21/Feb. 28, 2020

(800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com theland@TheLandOnline.com P.O. Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56002

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© 2020

Feb. 21/Feb. 28, 2020

(800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com theland@TheLandOnline.com P.O. Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56002