THE LAND ~ May 15, 2020 ~ Southern Edition

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May 15, 2020 May 22, 2020

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Hit the ground running The Land kicks off another season of From The Fields reports

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Research Garden is also great to look at Tim King provides the buzz on bees The latest info on ARC-CO

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THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

Not so lame after all P.O. Box 3169 418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56002 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XLIV ❖ No. 10 28 pages, 1 section plus supplements

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Cover photo by Pat Christman

COLUMNS Opinion Farm and Food File Deep Roots Cooking With Kristin Green and Growing From The Fields Marketing Mielke Market Weekly Farm Programs Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads

2-4 3 5 6 7 13 16-17 19 21 23-27 27 28

STAFF

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A little over two months ago I was singdays ahead. These kids are going to come ing my heart out to old Garth Brooks out of this with the ability to adapt when songs with some of my dearest friends. faced with things that are completely We were in the crowded Johnny Cash bar outside their control. They will excel at in Nashville, Tenn. The mood was light, finding the silver lining because that’s and we were enjoying our annual girls’ what they’ve had to do since March. Kids trip. are simply amazing and when I start getting down about all that has happened, I Each year about a dozen of my old look to them for strength and positivity. sorority sisters from North Dakota State LAND MINDS University travel from the Midwest to a Just like all of you, the Kveno family

By Kristin Kveno fabulous destination with the goal of has spent a lot of time together. We’ve reconnecting and decompressing. We finished puzzles, had plenty of at-home have been to Sonoma, Calif., Key West, bingo nights, baked AND spent some Fla. and everywhere in between. quality time on screens! I’ve had amazing conversations with each of my kids — talks When we flew out of Nashville on March 2, we which wouldn’t have normally happened as we knew the coronavirus was found in the United would be racing from activity to activity with truly States; but at that time only 53 cases were reported.

It seems when we left Nashville that day everything little time to chat. Before the pandemic, it seemed that my husband and I were chauffeurs to our teenchanged. Just a few hours later a tornado ravaged ager and that’s it, as we were “embarrassing and Nashville. A day after we returned home, five of us old.” Now we’ve had countless opportunities to have got sick — fevers, coughs, chills — it was a rough some awesome talks. Plus, she’s finding out her parreentry into normal life. ents aren’t AS lame as she thought (we’re still pretDid we have the coronavirus? Who knows? At that ty lame though.) One night she was playing some time, the Center for Disease Control was stating music that my husband and I quickly started singonly those who had been to China or Italy were to ing along to. She was shocked we also like the be tested. We did not qualify for testing. We’ve all Notorious B.I.G., WORLDS WERE COLLIDING! since recovered, though it was a long road to feeling Those talks and laughs have filled my heart these better for some of my friends. It wasn’t long after past few weeks, I feel like we’ve gotten the time to we got home that the virus began to rage across the really connect with our kids and for that I’m forever country. Life as we knew it changed, seemingly grateful. overnight.

Speaking of time, I want to thank our From the I’ve been working from home for eight weeks now. Fields producers this year for being willing to give I’m thankful to have the ability to do my job from of their time to participate. This spring has been home, as I’m also helping my four children navigate crazy in every aspect, farming included. Each of distance learning. It’s been going well. I’ve never these producers; Colby Deters, Andy Pulk and Todd been more grateful for all the wonderful teachers as Wentzel have a lot on their plates but are still willthey have worked tirelessly to pivot into distance ing to add one more thing in being a part of From learning and provide the best opportunity for our the Fields. I appreciate their willingness to share children to thrive in this unique time. their farming stories with our readers.

I’m dang proud of my kids … heck, I’m proud of As farmers across the state are busy in the field all the kids across the country. They have had to planting crops — and, in some cases, dodging snow adapt to this new normal. Their in-school learning, — here’s hoping the rest of spring goes smoothly sports, activities, field trips, plays have all been and safely. If we can’t belt out a Garth Brooks song taken away. We had a sad eighth grader who had so at a honky tonk bar, sitting in the tractor singing much cancelled — including eighth grade graduathose tunes is the next best thing. Happy planting, tion and a class trip scheduled for June to Land friends!

Washington D.C. Yes, she was disappointed and Kristin Kveno is the staff writer of The Land. She those first few days after school closed was tough; may be reached at kkveno@TheLandOnline.com. v but she’s staying positive and looking for brighter

OPINION

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

9 — Seed company test plots are going full-tilt 11 — Much to see and much to learn at Morris research garden

THERE’S EVEN MORE ONLINE... @ TheLandOnline.com • “Nuts and Bolts” — News and new products from the ag industry • “E-Edition” — Archives of past issues of The Land

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 3

‘Feeding you like family’ often requires a family While Tyson Foods says it’s “feeding per month) to implement his oft-rejected you like family,” we recently learned that “Harvest Box” idea. Perdue claims it will it and the rest of America’s Big Meat prop up prices received by farmers and members sometimes need a war-like ranchers because it will buy commodities White House declaration just to cut a fat to then box and give away to hog.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, recipients.

More striking than the order itself was its effect: it didn’t work.

Congress has rejected Perdue’s past attempts to install the program for severFARM & FOOD FILE A week after President Donald J. al reasons.

The key reason being redunTrump ordered all meatpacking employBy Alan Guebert dancy. SNAP is an efficient, effective, and ees nationwide back to work in the — according to Forbes — a 99 percent middle of the nation’s pandemic, fraud-free program that delivers food Tyson’s pork slaughtering facilities fell aid to every community in the United to 50 percent capacity, reported States. the Washington Post on May 4.

Even better, SNAP has no boxes, trucks or spoilAs that drama played out, Jake and Dawn age.

Trethewey continued to plant their 15th crop of certified organic produce to — get this — actually feed Under Perdue’s Covid-fueled plan, however, USDA dozens of families and hundreds of people near their will buy meat from packing plants that are halfChagrin Falls, Ohio farm. Better yet, their subscrib- shuttered; as well as from other food wholesalers er numbers continue to climb for 2020. located hundreds of miles from where it’s needed; to “I sent 30 emails for people to sign up a couple of then truck to closed schools and food pantries which lack the increased facilities necessary to cool, store weeks ago,” Jake relates in a telephone interview, and package it — on top of operating with virus“and I got back 34 replies for our weekly box. clipped, primarily volunteer staffs.

Thirty-four out of 30, that’s a first.”

In short, it’s a “solution” which worsens clogged He isn’t alone. It’s been a year of firsts for many distribution problems.

Americans hoping to keep pantries stocked and refrigerators full while the majority of the nation A far better fix would be for Congress to order remains under stay-at-home orders.

USDA to take the billions Perdue’s complex proAs last week’s column documented, it’s also been a gram will cost and just add the money to existing SNAP accounts so hungry, poor Americans can buy chain-breaking year for Big Ag and Big Food. Their the food they actually need. go-to remedy for most problems — go bigger or go home — can’t out muscle today’s merciless, deadly Congress can also order USDA to streamline the virus.

SNAP application process so even more Americans can get temporary, pre-loaded cards — say, in It’s also been a humbling few months for governamounts of $50, $100, or $200 — to use at local ment. Its usual prescription, a conveyor belt of markets for local food. money, is now running full throttle just to buy the baling wire and bubblegum necessary to hold Also, Congress should permit every SNAP cardtogether a badly broken food system which needs to holder the option of ordering and paying for homerefocus as much as reform. delivered food online without penalty. Today’s stateby-state authority is an outdated, bureaucratic For example, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny mess.

Perdue finally has the money (about $300 million

OPINION

Pressing on in uncertain times Adapting to conditions outside of their control is nothing new for people involved in agriculture. Weather conditions, market uncertainty and government actions alter farm management decisions on a regular basis. Global pandemics, though, are uncharted territory.

“This is more disruptive than anything we could have possibly imagined,” says JoDee Haala, director of public affairs for Sleepy Eye-based Christensen Farms.

The onset of the Covid-19 outbreak and resulting disruptions have impacted nearly every U.S. citizen.

Agriculture, deemed an essential industry, is not immune from those challenges. However, farmers and agribusinesses are committed to providing food for the nation and beyond, so they press on with spring field work and livestock care despite unprecedented challenges.

“If a time like this doesn’t prove to people that agriculture and feeding the world is our foundation and is extremely important, then I don’t know what would,” says Ashley Leivermann, chief human resources officer for Crystal Valley Cooperative. “I’m

None of these steps involves boxes, trucks or spoilage and each promises more food will get to more people in more places more easily. Better yet, local food creates local jobs — something every community (rural and urban) desperately needs now.

If you think it’s too good to be true, remember, we’re already doing it. In fact, Jake and Dawn Trethewey have been feeding their local community since 2005 because they know it takes a family to feed you like family.

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

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PAGE 4

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THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

Anderson: American agriculture is strong

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus Harlan Anderson isn’t bashful. Now 71, he strongly believes in Minnesota agriculture and thinks agriculture needs an ombudsman with starch in their shorts. Anderson is a fourth generation Minnesota farmer with two sons and two grandsons. He also functions in rural development in his area.

He started working in public policy in 1972 including efforts with U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone on the 1995 farm bill.

In a telephone visit with Anderson on April 27, he shared a few comments worth sharing with readers of The Land. I interrupted him as he was preparing a letter to Thom Petersen, Minnesota’s ag commissioner.

“I’m getting old and grey, but I love my profession of farming,” he said. “I cannot stand what is happening today — especially with the hog industry.

Minnesota agriculture needs direction now, not at the end of the week! A million hogs piled up on the outside of Worthington is going to hurt farmers.

“The governor needs to get those workers back to work today. It is safer to work in that plant and risk getting the flu than it is for the National Guard troops we just sent to the Middle East.

“It is my opinion that we need to

worry more about the 5.6 million live Minnesotans and the health of their food supply! Just a few thoughts from an old, grey, harried hay farmer.”

I’ve known Anderson for about 40 years. I did a story about his dad building a beef barn with slatted floors — perhaps the first in the beef industry. Anderson is a 1973 University of Minnesota graduate of the College of Veterinary Medicine. He worked with all livestock species; but in the Cokato area, dairy farmers predominated.

Also, because of close proximity to the western suburbs of the Twin Cities, horses soon became a major nucleus of his veterinary business. And that led to the development of Square Meal Feeds and the equine nutrition business of Idle Acres which uses alfalfa and grass mixtures grown on their Cokato area farm to produce various Square Meal horse biscuits.

But today, Covid-19 is disrupting pork processing facilities. Plants which process about 25 percent of U.S. pork are now closed. Is euthanasia suddenly the only recourse for some swine farmers who suddenly don’t have a market for their butcher hogs?

Anderson shudders with the grim reality facing the swine industry. Much as he dislikes the process of a government buyout, he admits this is likely

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the only alternative right now. “The last thing a pig producer wants to do is kill his livestock. It’s a horrible situation. And yet today, farmers may have no choice. We have an incredible crisis in our livestock industry with farmers being unwilling participants.”

The African swine fever has decimated the swine industry of China. As they struggle to rebuild, could China become a big buyer of U. S. pork products? Gifted analysts suggest this could happen. But immediately? No firm answers so far.

However, Anderson responded, “As a student of politics you’ll have to ask China. Is China interested in making us look good, or in making us look bad?

If you’re going to build a market on a country more interested in putting us down, that’s a scary market. Could China bail us out by suddenly buying extra pork? Yes, perhaps … but it’s not in China’s best interests to make us look good.”

If/when the fever scare subsides here in America, will the U.S. pork industry get back in balance with consumer demand? Will supply and demand start functioning again as it should?

That economic process guided and built U.S. agriculture for over 200 years noted Anderson, and he believes it can work again. “We just need to guard against too much government intervention — particularly as it pertains to agriculture. The bigger problem today is so few of our policy makers in Washington have any experience with agriculture.

Collin Peterson, (U.S. Congressman, western Minnesota) once told me there’s only about 30 people in the entire U.S. Congress with a working knowledge of what drives American agriculture.

“I remember my Dad telling me about 40 years ago, ‘When it comes to farm bills, do you think those 525 characters in Washington are going to outfox 2.5 million farmers? And that is so vividly the problem today. We need ag leadership. That’s what it’s all about — especially in this immediate urgency of the virus scare.”

In this era of ‘merger mania,’ is getbig-or-get-out still the guiding doctrine for policy makers when it comes to solutions for agriculture? Anderson quickly retorted, “Well they say that because that’s where the money is com-

ing from. Unfortunately they’re all about money anymore. The day after election they’re already asking for funds for their re-election. I’ve told you what my Mom said when people asked me about getting into politics: You shouldn’t hang around with a crowd like that.”

A positive supporter of Donald Trump, Anderson suggests he retire from the presidency rather than run for reelection. “I was a good friend of Jessie Ventura. I watched and respected the leadership he put into the governor’s chair. It was apparent to Ventura the Republicans and Democrats weren’t going to permit a third party into Minnesota politics.

“Now today, somewhat the same contrary opinion seems to surround our president. He is continually bamboozled by Democrats and even some Republicans. So I think our president should decline running for re-election this November. And he shouldn’t make this announcement until the week before the election. Then simply say to this Congress, ‘Okay you figure out how to do this job. I’m going home.”

Anderson has no time for the “elitist gallery” in Congress who blatantly ignored and belittled this presidency despite his remarkable can-do achievements. “We’ve had better relations with North Korea than with any previous president. We finally have trade agreements with other countries that are fair to both parties. And it’s apparent that key voices in the pharmaceutical industry will shut down their operations in China and relocate to America.

This Congress, which seems willing to spend trillions to reenergize our American economy, apparently will provide a helping hand to U. S. agriculture also. But is this money getting down to individual farmers, individual hog producers to prevent their bankruptcy?”

Will we run low on food? That depends upon how long it takes to get the food processing companies — including U.S. meat packers — back in production.

“Progress yes,” agreed Anderson. “But when I ask when, nobody has the answer. American agriculture is so strong. Farmers are outstanding at surviving. However, there will be some big hurts in the process.” v

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 5

A new growing season and a new outlook on life I was recently driving leaving the barren fields home with my children with a listless tone. from a lovely, warm, spring With one simple pass day spent at the lake cabin with a soil finisher, a desoof a good friend. The sun late field has an entirely had begun sinking in the different appearance. The western sky — casting a field transforms from dull beautiful blanket of golden and gray to having a dark, hues on the gentle slopes of rich, full-bodied color. The DEEP ROOTS freshly-tilled land. The rough ridges and residue topography of the land has

By Whitney Nesse from the previous year’s the ability to create an crop has been leveled and incredible tapestry of natural colors, smoothed, and there is an earthy scent blending beautifully into one another. which lingers in the air. To some, the The tan hilltops of clay transition into eye will only see dirt. But to a lover the rich, dark soil of central and a steward of the land, the eye sees Minnesota. The pale, dry grasses from potential and the hope of something the year before line the deep drainage new, something great that is to come. ditches which lay like snakes sunning This week, my ten year-old daughter, themselves across the land. There are Abby, quietly and with a hint of sadhints of green showing through the ness in her voice told me, “Sometimes, tree lines, teasing us with a glimpse of life isn’t fair,” — a statement that I what’s to come. fully agree with. I reminded her howThe fields which have yet to be preever, although there are times when pared for planting lie in wait, soaking life isn’t fair, God is always doing up every second of sunshine that something new and preparing us for brings much relief from the long winsomething great that is to come. In ter. They have a weary look, gray and this conversation, my mind (which has weathered. The rough ridges and been in a chaos of distance learning sharp stubble from last season appear and futile attempts to maintain my lonesome and tired. An unforgiving sanity) somehow linked my discussion winter has left its mark on the land —

with Abby to the preparation of soil for spring planting.

Life’s not fair, like an unrelenting winter, a season of bitter cold and wind that leaves the land looking desperate and weary. How true is this for our heart as well! Seasons of unfair circumstances leave us feeling desperate, listless, tired and lonesome. Much like the soil, with one pass of a finisher, everything changes. A place which once looked rough and sharp — in one pass — has been flawlessly smoothed, creating a perfect bed for seeds. Once the caretaker plants the seeds, comes the hope of something new, the hope of something greater than the soil can produce on its own.

“For I know the plans I have for you ,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” (Jer. 29:11, NIV). How wonderful are the promises of God! Life’s unfair conditions can leave us feeling hopeless. Yet slowly,

like the changing of a season, the sun begins to shine on the soil of our hearts. Exposed are the rough edges and sharp stubble from the previous, unfair season. And in one pass, the Lord can take a weather-beaten heart, smooth it to perfection and plant new seeds — new seeds which bring the hope for the future, new seeds which hold the promise of something greater.

Just as the sun rises each morning and sets each night, so do the seasons of our lives bring change. Some seasons are harsh and unfair, some are meant for resting and recovering. Yet others are purposed for planting and new growth. Allow each season to come and go without rushing or tarrying. Take heart friends, the Lord offers stability for our time.

Whitney Nesse is a sixth-generation livestock farmer who is deeply rooted in her faith and family. She writes from her central Minnesota farm. v

P OS T F R AM E BUI LDI NGS

New CRP program offers longer-term benefits ST. PAUL — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency will open signup this summer for CLEAR30, a new pilot program which offers landowners an opportunity to enroll in a 30-year Conservation Reserve Program contract. The program signup period is July 6 to Aug. 21.

“This pilot allows us to work with farmers and landowners to maintain conservation practices for 30 years,” said Minnesota Executive Director Joe Martin. “Through CLEAR30, we can decrease erosion, improve water quality and increase wildlife habitat on a much longer-term basis. We want to share this opportunity early, before the sign up period, so farmers and landowners have more time to consider if CLEAR30 or another program is right for their operation.”

Eligible producers must have expir-

ing Clean Lakes, Estuaries and Rivers (CLEAR) initiative contracts, including continuous CRP cropland contracts with water-quality practices or marginal pasturelands CRP contracts devoted to riparian buffers, wildlife habitat buffers or wetland buffers.

Annual rental payment for landowners who enroll in CLEAR30 will be equal to the current continuous CRP annual payment rate plus an inflationary adjustment of 27.5 percent.

Another unique program feature is that FSA will help producers maintain CLEAR30 contract acreage.

USDA Service Centers are open for business by phone appointment only, and field work will continue with appropriate social distancing.

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

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

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

Joy found in the aroma of fresh-baked cookies that needs to be tried to be believed.

Sometimes you just need a good cookie.

Not store bought, packaged cookies but Potato Chip Cookies yummy baked in your kitchen oven cookhttps://www.pauladeen.com/recipe/potato-chipies. I have my favorite chocolate chip cookies/ cookie recipe memorized and make a batch 2 cups (4 sticks) softened butter of them quite often. I needed to add some 1 cup sugar new cookies to my repertoire so I 3-1/4 cups all-purpose flour researched cookie recipes and discovered a 1 teaspoon vanilla few that were a hit with my family and I COOKING 1-1/2 cups coarsely crushed potato chips hope they will be with yours.

WITH KRISTIN 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar Peanut butter, M&Ms and oats are what make

By Kristin Kveno Preheat oven to 300 degrees. In a large mixing monster cookies so awesome. This recipe adds cake bowl cream butter and sugar. Slowly blend in flour mix to the mix resulting in a taste combination that can’t be and vanilla. Add crushed potato chips and mix well. Drop by topped. rounded teaspoon, 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet.

Cake Mix Monster Cookies Using a fork, flatten each cookie slightly. Bake 18-20 minutes, or https://togetherasfamily.com/cake-mix-monster-cookies/ until light brown around the edges. Remove to wire rack to cool.

Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar.

1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix (do not prepare) 1/2 cup brown sugar n 3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) butter, softened A cup of hot cocoa and a cookie is the perfect combination. Now 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter put the two together and you have the ideal cookie flavor that you 2 tablespoons water won’t have to worry about spilling!

1 large egg 2 cups quick cooking oats Hot Chocolate Cookies 1/2 cup miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips https://www.tasteandtellblog.com/hot-cocoa-cookies/ 1/2 cup mini M&Ms (plus extra for top of cookies) 1 cup butter, at room temperature Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line cookie sheet with parchment 1-1/2 cups sugar paper or spray with cooking spray. In large mixing bowl, combine 2 eggs cake mix, brown sugar, butter, peanut butter, water and egg. Beat 1 teaspoon vanilla with a handheld blender on medium speed until well com- 2 cups all-purpose flour bined. Add oats, chocolate chips and mini M&Ms. Stir with a 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder wooden spoon. Use a cookie scoop to scoop out dough. They 3/4 teaspoon baking soda should be about the size of a golf ball. Bake for 12-14 minutes. 1/2 teaspoon salt Cookies will not spread much at all. Press a few additional M&Ms 1 cup mini marshmallow bits, divided onto the tops of the cookies when they come out of the oven. As 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips. you press them on, the cookie will flatten slightly and look more Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a mixer bowl, combine the like a traditional cookie shape. Let cool on cookie sheet for 15 butter and sugar and beat until light and fluffy, 1-2 minutes. Add minutes so they can come together and set up. in the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides of the mixer as n needed. Beat in the vanilla. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, Sweet and savory, the yin and the yang, together they’re better. cocoa powder, baking soda and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the Take potato chips, add them to cookies creating a flavor combo wet ingredients and mix just until combined. Add in 3/4 cup of the marshmallows and the chocolate chips and mix until combined.

Scoop 1 tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll into a ball. The dough will be stiff and sticky. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. With the remaining 1/4 cup mini

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marshmallows, press a few into the outside of each of the balls of dough. Bake the cookies, one baking sheet at a time. Bake until the edges are set, but the center still looks a little bit wet, about 7 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the cookies sit on the baking sheets for a few more minutes before transferring to a baking rack or a sheet of waxed paper. n A cookie with a surprise inside is both magical and delicious.

This cookie has a hidden peanut butter filling that will leave all your cookie eaters in amazement!

Magic Peanut Butter Cookies

https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/10064/magic-peanut-buttermiddles/ 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 cup white sugar 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup softened butter 1/4 cup peanut butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 egg 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar 3/4 cup peanut butter In a small bowl blend flour, cocoa and baking soda. Mix until well blended. In large bowl beat white and brown sugars, butter or margarine and 1/4 cup peanut butter, until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and egg, beat. Stir in flour mixture until blended. Set aside.

To make filling: Combine confectioner’s sugar and 3/4 cup peanut butter. Blend well. Roll filling into 30 1-inch balls. For each cookie, with floured hands, shape about 1 tablespoon of dough around 1 peanut butter ball, covering completely. Place 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten with glass dipped in white sugar.

Bake at 375 degrees for 7 to 9 minutes. When cookies are done, they should be set and slightly cracked.

It’s hard to top the wonderful aroma of cookies baking in the oven. Try one of these recipes today and enjoy that sweet scent of deliciousness!

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

Grants available for urban agriculture The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced the availability of $3 million for grants to support the development of urban agriculture and innovative production projects. USDA will accept applications on Grants.gov until midnight July 6.

Projects may target areas of food access, education, business and start-up costs for new farmers and development of policies related to zoning and other needs of urban production.

USDA is also making available $2 million for Implementation Projects that accelerate existing and emerging models of urban, indoor and other agricul-

tural practices that serve multiple farmers.

A webinar, which will be held on June 3, from 2 to 4 p.m. EDT, will provide an overview of the grants’ purpose, project types, eligibility and basic requirements for submitting an application. Information on how to register for and participate in the webinar, or listen to the recording, will be posted at farmers.gov/ urban.

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

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 7

Vegetables can do well when grown in containers Flowers are frequently used. Containers which are grown in containers, but wide as well as deep are vegetables may also be important for those plants grown in this way. This whose roots spread horizonmakes vegetable gardening tally. Some vegetables may possible for those who do need a five-gallon pail to not have the ground to grow well. work in. Gardening from a GREEN AND Container-grown plants patio, balcony or porch is GROWING require more frequent possible. Containers are a watering than those grown way to garden even if your By Linda G. Tenneson in soil, but they do not outdoor soil has become want their roots sitting in water, so contaminated or is of poor quality. drainage holes are required. A drip Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, green tray or saucer is also a good idea to onions, beans, lettuce, squash, radish- prevent water stains from occurring es and herbs may be grown in contain- on the surface the container is placed ers if a smaller variety is chosen and a on. Even, consistent watering is large enough container is used. Vining important — especially for tomatoes plants like peas, beans or cucumbers — to prevent blossom end rot and may also be grown in containers if a other problems. vine support is added to the container.

Place the container in a location After choosing the vegetable, select a where it will not have to be moved. container large enough to support the Once the container has been filled full-grown plant. Often this will be a with soil and the plant has grown and gallon pot or larger. Any container been watered, the container will likely that will hold soil and water may be be quite heavy. Gardeners who grow

annuals in containers may place gravel, Styrofoam or sealed containers in the bottom of the container to keep containers from becoming too heavy.

This practice is not recommended for vegetable growing because most vegetables have more roots and need more below-ground growing space than annuals.

Containers which need to be moved to follow the sun may be placed on wheels. However, those wheels may also make it possible for the container to be moved by a strong wind.

Vegetables usually need full sun to grow which means six hours or more of sun each day (although eight hours is preferred — especially for warmseason crops). Cool season crops, such as lettuce or spinach, may grow with less than six hours of full sun each day.

The seed envelope or instructions included with a vegetable plant will inform the gardener whether the plant may be planted before the last frost or

not. Seeds for warm season vegetables may be started, or plants placed in containers before the last frost if the container can be moved indoors at night.

Purchased potting soil is recommended for container use because it is lighter than garden soil and is often mixed with compost, perlite, or vermiculite to promote drainage. Fertilize the plants with fertilizer recommended for vegetable growing; but use half the amount recommended on the package. Additional fertilizer may be added if needed, but removing excess fertilizer is difficult and may kill the plant.

An online search for “container vegetable gardening” will supply additional details from several state extension sources.

Linda G. Tenneson is a University of Minnesota master gardener and tree care advisor. v

Farming, agribusiness contributions go beynd supplying food OPINION, from pg. 3

keep them.

Farmers are adapting to new safety proud of the industry from the standpoint that it is resilient. Whatever the practices as are employers and employchallenge is, we’ll adapt. We don’t have ees in all aspects of agribusiness. From factory workers and livestock managthe option to not get the crop in the ers to sales representatives and fertilground. We don’t have the option not izer applicators, businesses are strivto feed animals, because people and animals need to eat. It doesn’t matter ing to ensure worker safety. Healthy workers are stepping up to do their there’s a Covid-19 outbreak going on jobs to produce healthy food. or not. They need to eat.”

GreenSeam Director Sam Ziegler Minnesota’s livestock sector, an ecoisn’t surprised farmers and agribusinomic strength across southern Minnesota and northern Iowa because nesses are stepping up during the Covid-19 pandemic. of prolific hog production, is facing drastic disruptions. Hog processing “Agriculture has always been a humfacilities in Minnesota, Iowa and ble industry,” Ziegler says. “Just South Dakota are shuttered because of because we are now labeled as essenCovid-19 outbreaks among plant tial does not change the passion peoworkers. Markets for processed pork ple in this industry have. There is a products like bacon are also in disarpassion to produce cleaner energy ray because restaurants and food sersuch as ethanol. There is a passion to vice venues are closed or offer takeout raise animals to nourish families near options only. and far. There is a passion to care for Some hog farmers are faced with the the soil and work with whatever Mother Nature throws at us. There is need to try to find willing processors a passion for finding solutions to grow to take their animals in an already more nourish food. Right now, more taxed system. The other unthinkable option is to cull otherwise healthy ani- than ever there is a passion to not let fellow Americans down by keeping mals because there’s no place to take food on your table.” them for processing and no place to

Beyond supplying food for consumers, Haala says farmers and agribusinesses are contributing much more.

Christensen Farms has donated to 17 food banks across the Midwest and is the lead partner in the Brown County United Way Project Lunchbox, which provides weekend meals to kids. A

group of Christensen employees has also sewn and donated hundreds of masks.

“People want to help people,” Haala says. “You can see that evidence all over the place.”

Dan Lemke Madison Lake, Minn.

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.

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THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

Mapping gives better idea of bee populations

By TIM KING The Land Correspondent ST. PAUL — A group of roughly 150 Minnesota volunteers spent the last four summers tracking down wild bees in Minnesota to create the state’s first atlas of wild bees living in the state.

Volunteers made thousands of observations and took thousands of photographs out of which they identified a diverse range of bee species.

“We’ve documented 18 bumblebee species of the 23 historically documented in Minnesota,” Britt Marie Forsberg of University of Minnesota Extension and the project coordinator, said. “It’s likely that a handful of those 23 species are no longer in Minnesota, so we’ve got pretty good representation. Bumblebee conservation is a global concern and monitoring bumblebee populations is providing important information to inform conservation efforts.”

One of the bumblebee species volunteers observed was a three-colored bee called Bombus affinis — also known as the Rusty-patched bumblebee. Bombus affinis, which is the only bumblebee listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, was seen at only four locations in the state over four years.

There were two observations in the Twin Cities and one each near Rochester and Duluth.

“Any B. affinis occurrences are reported to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to inform their management and recovery planning,” Britt said.

One of the bees which had previously been seen in RUCTIONS Please read attached email Minnesota but was not found by Bee Atlas surveyors was Bombus bohemicus/ashtoni. That bee parasitizes EPRusty-patched NAMES ALREADY LAND 3.7461 x nests;ON andAD sinceTHE Rusty-patched bumble bees are extremely rare, B. bomemicus seems to have disappeared from the scene.

A fairly common bumblebee observed by volunteers was a yellow, black and orange Rusty-patched lookalike called the Tricolored bumblebee or Bombus ternarius. Dozens of them were observed up and down the eastern half of the state.

To make nearly 5,000 bumble bee sightings over the four summers, volunteers traveled 25-30 bumble road side routes three times each of the four summers.

“This involves visiting the route three times each summer and collecting bumblebees for 10 minutes at five different floral patches,” Britt said. “Easilyidentified species are tallied and released while more difficult species are photographed and then released.”

2” Creating bee habitat such as these rolls of paper (left) or a “bee block” (right) mimics natural habitat where bees might make their nests.

The idea of the Bee Atlas is to not only to count bee species, but to map where in Minnesota each species lives. So the photographs from the road side routes, along with those of a group of volunteer bumblebee photographers, were uploaded by the volunteers into the website iNaturalist.org. The website asks contributors to note where their photograph was taken.

The locations of all the volunteer photos established the best current knowledge about the range of the species in Minnesota.

Atlas volunteers didn’t only observe and photograph bumblebees. During the summers of 2016 through 2018, they put out over 120 custom-made wooden bee nesting blocks — or bee traps — across Minnesota. The blocks have a number of differentsized holes drilled in them for non-social solitary

Photos by Britt Marie Forsberg

bees to nest in. The holes in the blocks are intended to mimic bee nests which bees would normally build.

“Some solitary bees build their nests in tunnels in wood or stems,” the Atlas website says. “They may utilize existing holes or chew their own.

After locating a suitable hole, the female bee begins to build a little room, called a cell, for each of her offspring. As each cell is built, the female stocks it with a mix of pollen and nectar and lays an egg. She then closes the cell and starts on the next one. “

Volunteers were instructed to mount the blocks on a south-facing building, fence post, or dead tree three to five feet above the ground. Then they were asked to observe activity at the box throughout the summer and to take notes on nesting activity.

“We collected all blocks in the fall, kept them in cold storage to simulate a Minnesota winter, and then raised the temperature in the spring,” Britt said. “The now-adult bees and solitary wasps emerged in our lab and we were able to pin and preserve them for identification. We collected roughly 15,000 specimens.”

Two of the bees which emerged from the bee blocks had never been recorded in Minnesota. They also found a number of species of cuckoo bees which, like cuckoos and cow birds, lay their eggs in the nests of other bee species. The bee blocks also yielded three species of solitary resin bees. Resin bees are important pollinators of flowers like goldenrod, sweet clover and evening primrose.

Volunteers at the Three Rivers Park system in the western Twin Cities metropolitan area were among those who observed and learned about resin bees, bumble bees and cuckoo bees.

“When we learned what little was known on current distributions and species of bees found within Minnesota, it was a no-brainer for us to participate,” Angela Grill, a wildlife biologist for the park system, said. “Three Rivers agreed to help in any capacity we could which included offering locations to install bee blocks and providing staff and volunteers to report observations. We also assisted with locations to host workshops for the general public.”

Grill says knowing which species of bees reside in the park system will help guide decisions of land managers so as to provide the best possible habitat for those species and other wildlife in the park system.

Other biologists and land managers, as well as the general public, can look at and use the Minnesota Bee Atlas via the University of Minnesota’s Bell Museum’s Biodiversity Atlas at https://bellatlas.umn. edu. v

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 9

Area seed companies have test plots in full gear

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus OLIVIA, Minn. — Like many in this business of being an ‘ag writer,’ no ag meetings gets to be a real drag. So, initiative to the rescue. And how convenient in my home town of Olivia on Saturday morn, April 25. I simply got in my auto and scooted down ‘seed corn row’ alongside Highway 212.

My first stop was to Beck’s Seeds.

It was a beautiful day and every farmer within a hundred miles of Olivia was planting. And the going was good with mellow soils and soil temps at 48-50 degrees at two-inch depth. Dr. Todd Frank, Research Director of Beck’s Seeds western Todd Frank division was diligently placing seed envelopes into special containers for his planting crew. Later that afternoon they would be using their 8-row plot planter to dispense these hundreds of seeds into precise rows on research plots in the immediate Olivia area.

When research directors and their crews are ready to plant, it’s planned even down to the starting minute! And that is because conditions have been virtually ideal for getting seed into the ground this spring.

Frank reflected, “Last spring we finally had to abandon some of our plots in South Dakota. It never did get dry enough to plant out there.”

This year you could almost sense the joy of Frank and his crew as they prepared to head out after lunch for that 1 p.m. start with their 8-row planter — equipped with GPS technology. “This year off the top of my head I believe we are at 14 locations through southern Minnesota and into South Dakota.”

The GPS allows Becks to adjust populations on the go — even row by row. Frank said he hadn’t measure toil temps April 24. But he did comment, “Because of the seed treatments we use on Beck’s hybrids, I’m very comfortable putting seed in the ground even though I haven’t measured soil temp this morning.”

At the elevator in Olivia, corn market price was at $2.71. So I asked Frank if farmers were still encouraged about getting seed corn into the ground? “I think the early spring planting this year is significant,” Frank replied. “We need to keep looking at the positive sides of agriculture and this year’s early spring planting is certainly a positive approach to the start of this 2020 crop year.”

Beck’s Seeds moved into Olivia three years ago, purchasing what used to be the Olivia Sweet Corn canning facility and converting it into huge warehouse space with offices for various Beck’s personnel.

“Yes, we’re finally settled in,” admitted Frank.

“Always a bit longer and a tad more work than originally envisioned. But living and working right here in Olivia is a pleasure. When this town was officially christened ‘The Corn Capital of Minnesota’ it was certainly fitting. Tremendous soils in this area made even more productive because of a tremendous

investment in tiling and ditches to handle sometimes abundant rains. But most importantly, you quickly note the ‘can do’ attitude of farmers around this area.

They pick up on new technologies quickly. They ask challenging questions either in on-farm visits or at information meetings we put on for customers and would be customers. Just a whole bunch of fast learners around here which tends to keep our various research projects — both corn and soybeans — on the front burner.”

Right behind yield improvements, what’s next on the research agenda of Frank? “Agronomics,” he replied, which means continual emphases on the total corn plant … root structure, stalk strength, ear size and position, and of course increasing resistance to the various diseases and health challenges to a corn plant.

Does Frank sense more interest in non-GMO corns because of consumer interest in non-GMO foods?

“Yes, what the customer wants is what drives today’s markets — both in the grower’s fields and the consumer’s kitchen,” Frank said. “So yes, some companies will put more effort into making non-GMO seed available. At this stage, this is not a high priority with Becks hybrids.”

And Frank is concerned about today’s economic crunch facing farmers. “We don’t want to see competitors get hurt. We certainly don’t want to see our farm customers struggling to make ends meet. This Covid-19 crisis is the worst disease at the worst time for our entire agricultural economy. However, we have been blessed with a great number of new customers this year and new sales. We hope that continues,” summed up Todd Frank.

Next stop is a few blocks down Highway 212 to Hefty Seed Company and agronomist John Scheibel.

My first question to Scheibel, “What’s the most frequent question you get from your customers?”

His quick response, “Are seed John Scheibel treatments still worth the money on soybeans? Also, should I back down on fertilizer on my corn to save some money? Yes, we still want to grow a good corn crop and good soybean fields too.

No, don’t push for 250-280 bushel corn yields because your ROI (return on investment) might not be positive. So I’m suggesting shoot for 220-240 bushel yields and fertilize accordingly. This year we’re getting early planting, so potential is there for a very good crop. But don’t overspend so you’re farming just to see what you can collect on crop insurance.”

Are farmers talking about cutting back on plant populations? “Yes, we’ve had a few farmers talk that way,” Scheibel said. “We don’t advise lowering seed corn populations — especially with such a good early start this year. But on soybeans, we’re seeing some studies with little yield loss at 125,000 seeds per acre vs. 140,000-150,000 seeds. So some guys are backing off on their soybean planting populations. Beans can

compensate for these lower planting rates also.”

“A few guys buy our soybeans without seed treatment because they’ve done some side-by-sides on their own farm and don’t see the added value,” Scheiber went on to say. “Also, some plant with a drill and treated seed doesn’t flow as good.”

“Our Hefty Complete seed has three different fungicides, two different insecticides, a biological product we call ‘Nutri-Cycle’ which has 26 different strains of bacteria and fungi to help breakdown soil nutrients making them more available to the growing soybean crop. It’s also got a product called Heat Shield which is a fungal deterrent that allows the plant to better tolerate stresses. University of Washington Researchers found this fungal fighter at Yellowstone National Park which has lots of really hot soils. Plus we have an inoculant and inoculant extender in this seed treatment package.”

“Inoculant extender is basically a sugar,” Scheiber continued, “which feeds the rhizobia bacteria in our ROOTastic inoculant allowing it to live on the seed for a longer period of time so can even delay planting up to 10 days with no drop off of inoculant impact.”

He also noted, “I have seen these insecticide treatments hold off soybean aphids a week to two weeks compared with untreated soybeans. Last year we had very limited aphids. This past winter wasn’t super cold, so maybe more overwintering of the aphid eggs and that could mean more aphids. I’d suggest staying in touch with Bruce Potter at the Lamberton Research Station. Or pay attention to the aerial applicators at Olivia air port! If they’re flying, we’ve got aphids! I’m looking at moderate pressure; nothing like the heavy pressure we’ve seen in recent seasons.”

My next stop was just a bit farther west to 3MG North — the aspiring seed firm of Ed Baumgartner and his ambitious crew. Yes, this crew was also busy getting seed packets ready for plot plantings. I got a few minutes with Susan Johnson, corn breeder and See SEED TOUR, pg. 10

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THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

Seed companies are planting test plots earlier this year SEED TOUR, from pg. 9 an Iowa State protégé. “Yes, this is one of the best spring I have experienced. We will be putting in 17 plots in three states and it looks this year like we’ll get the job done. This is the earliest we have ever been in the ground,” said Johnson.

Besides corn, 3MG also does plot Susan Johnson work on soybeans because the ‘soybean belt’ keeps expanding west and north into North Dakota, Montana and the Canadian provinces.

Now into its 14th year, the firm is marketing 27 corn hybrids this year with maturities ranging from early 80-day to full season 120-day hybrids. And all seed bags tote the BASS label (Baumgartner Agricultural Science & Service).

All BASS hybrids are non-GMO. Why? Johnson related, “Because of the growing non-GMO market in America plus most of Europe is still non-GMO. Also because Mother Nature is different every year. We are continually exploring how our testing materials react to the different environmental stresses of Mother Nature. Our goal is to visually observe on our various research pedigrees how each reacts to the many challenges … be it cold, wet weather or scorching hot, dry weather. Today, with the sun shining, our plots could pick up 10 degrees in soil temps at two-inch depth. So it’s time to be getting on with our work.”

That’s a good clue that I should be leaving. Right now they have an 8-row planter going. This afternoon Johnson and crew member Matt will be heading out on a 4-row unit planting some inbred increases. “And when it’s time to get our research seeds in the ground it could be an 8-hour day or an 18-hour day. But I sit in my office all winter; so I look forward to this spring planting session. When it’s time to plant I want to be out there planting. It’s April 26 and we’ve already got over 40 acres in the ground so that’s a good feeling,” summed up Johnson.

Next back up Highway 212, south side, to Renk Seeds and Darin Stranberg. He’s been with Renk Seeds since 2007.

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35,000 are planted at the organization’s headquarters at Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.

I was a bit amazed at those numbers. Stranberg noted, “I’ve always waited till April 25 to start planting these test plots. But this year we started earlier … Monday, April 20. We planted 12,700 plots south of Bird Island last Wednesday and Thursday. We did two of our off-station plots yesterday at Belle Plaine and one at Plainview down by Rochester. Right now we’re planting at Worthington and Brewster. Hoping to go to St. James today; but they got some rain yesterday so we’ll probably end up out in South Dakota this afternoon.

Just got some seed in yesterday so I’ve got to get delivered now to South Dakota; that’s why you caught Darin Stranberg me back in the shop right now.”

My last visit on this Saturday morning jaunt was Corteva Agriscience — virtually next door to Renk Seeds. I was introduced to Jonathan Mikkelson, Research Operations Lead at this Olivia facility.

“Yes, great weather for getting our research plots planted; but we’ve experienced some logistical problems in getting our seed returned from South America and other production sites because of the coronavirus disrupting logistics between our various research and production locations,” said Mikkelson, adding that social distancing amongst their own employees here at Olivia has been a bit cumbersome also.

“We have corn and soybean plots two to three hours out from Olivia … and probably 70 to 100 locations. We have 8-row planters. We have two breeding programs for corn out of our Olivia station. We work primarily 90 to 95-day maturities; but we also test 85 to 100-plus maturities and always concentrating to advance germ plasm and creating better hybrids that not only yield better but more readily withstand the summer environmental challenges of this region of the corn belt.

“We also offer a complete lineup of soybean varieties with various packages of seed treatments and trait combinations. That includes Roundup Ready Extend and E3 which we’re excited to launch with our customers this season.”

Does Mikkelson have concerns about commodity prices? “I also farm, so I pay lots of attention to market prices, crop rotations, marketing plans and the meat industry. All these packing plants suddenly shutting down throws lots of dynamics into this entire farming industry. The markets available for our livestock guys is now a considerable crisis.”

Because of multiple years of financial challenges for farmers, he too is concerned about who will be the survivors when things finally settle down. He said there were lots of prevent plant acres around his Benson area last year and much of what did get planted was planted late so yields took a beating also. He’s aware of some of his North Dakota farmers

who didn’t harvest last fall and were still waiting to get into their fields to harvest this spring. “The misery and financial crunch they faced is unbelievable.”

Mikkelson grow up in the Benson area; went to Concordia College, Moorhead, for four years; then to North Dakota State University for his master’s degree in Natural Resources Management with plant sciences emphases. He cautions that the days of Roundup Ready as the ‘rescue treatment’ when weeds are threatening your crops are pretty much over. “Just too many consumer hassles,” he reasons to keep it a common weed control product.

And his take on the future of non-GMO seeds? “An interesting question these days; but this sudden corona crisis and possible disruption of the food chain is a bigger concern right now. People appreciate lowcost food. And yet today many people are tremendously short of steady food supplies. I would say that, as a new company to the agricultural world, Corteva is much more consumer focused. So not only do we focus on new seeds for a better agriculture, but also seeds that contribute to the overall nutrition of the Jonathan foods are people eat. I think now is Mikkelson a most interesting time to say the least! I think it will get many people to revaluate their lives and get a new appreciation for the importance of agriculture in their daily living.”

So in view of the economic crunch facing farmers this year, does Mikkelson believe farmers will be reducing their planting rates to save seed costs per acre?

He’s skeptical — suggesting that if you look at trends, farmers have been increasing like 200 to 300 more seeds per acre each of the past several years. “I think those trends will continue. But obviously, seed costs are significant these days, so some consideration of backing off one to two thousand seeds per acre might be logical — settling in at 32,000 to 34,000. I see a lot more variable rates of not only seed, but fertilizer too — thanks to the convenience of today’s GPS systems for on-the-go changes as you plant. Farmers today are so adept at picking up on new technologies as a means of improving their crop production efforts. They are very resourceful people out there.”

Not trying to be a prophet, but Mikkelson wonders if this might be sort of a ‘bounce back’ year for soybean aphids in view of the moderate winter and early snow pack. How to manage the different technologies now available? Because when farmers choose a particular platform of technologies, they want to be allin rather than just a partial entry. “Herbicide control choices could be one of those challenges again this year because weeds are always an issue. And we and other seed providers are continually coming up with new products and new systems on how to use these products,” summed up Mikkelson. v

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 11

Display gardens are a combination of beauty and research

By RICHARD SIEMERS The Land Correspondent MORRIS, Minn. — The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is the crown jewel for horticulture research gardens in Minnesota. But the University of Minnesota has horticulture research happening around the state. One of these easily-accessible research gardens is at the West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC) just outside of the city of Morris.

While the Horticulture Display Garden at Morris is a center for research, it also provides education to the public, and is a colorful place to walk around and get ideas for a home garden. The center’s The zinnia ‘Holi Scarlet F1’ – a All American 2019 AAS flower winner.

Selections trial and display gardens are a unique feature.

All America Selections (AAS) was founded in 1932 to run impartial trials of new flowers and vegetables which were not yet on the market.

Allium “Millenium” – the All Horticulture American Selections 2018 Scientist Steve perennial plant of the year.

Poppe coordinates the horticulture research at WCROC and is an AAS judge.

“To become an AAS winner and have their stamp of approval, the plant has to have superior performance through the North The petunia ‘Tidal Wave Red American contiVelour F1’ nent,” Poppe said.

“The plant breeding companies introduce these as a promising selection. It has no name right now. We look at these plants over one growing season.”

Poppe is a flower judge. He said they A container of AAS winning Pro- put the selection in fusion Red zinnias in the Heria plot with one to tage Garden. three comparison

the only flowers getting trials at the Morris research gardens.

“We trial about 400-plus different varieties, working with 15 or so plant breeding companies that want to trial their flowers with the U of M,” he said.

The Horticulture Display Garden is a research site which is intended to benefit the public as well as plant breeders.

“When I first started, we had flowers — but they were planted in rows,” Poppe said. “In the 1990s we started to make changes to make it more aesthetically pleasing; and to display plants so the public Photos by Richard Siemers could learn and be educated from our displays, how they Hundreds of varieties can be found in the All American Selections Display Garden at the West Central Research and Outreach Center. might use those flowers, shrubs, perennials or whatvarieties — named varieties which have proven per- ever else they have in their own home or garden. formance and are on the market.

That’s why we try to label everything, and there are “We look at them every week or ten days, taking a brochures out there” lot of flower data: flowering ability, disease resisThe Display Garden is actually a collection of gartance, plant habit, and so forth. Then we hand in the dens. At the WCROC website you will find descripresults in early November, they’re compiled, and win- tions of the Heritage Garden, Meditation Garden, ners are selected.”

Shade Garden, Tropical Garden, Water Garden — There are more winners some years than others. In even a Children’s Garden. addition to the AAS Trial Garden, the Horticulture Not only is the Horticulture Display Garden intendGarden also has an AAS Display Garden of both ed for the public, Poppe said the public has played a flower and vegetable winners from previous years. significant role in making it the attractive garden While Poppe is a judge for AAS trials, those aren’t that it is. There are structures and benches scattered throughout, and Poppe said all of them have been donated by supporters of the garden. Contributors have also added to the gardens themselves. The Shade Garden is an example.

“We call it the Ken Anderson Shade Garden,” Poppe said. “Family and friends of Ken Anderson, who passed away many years ago, helped create that garden in his memory. There are a lot of hostas in there See GARDEN, pg. 12

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THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

Seventeen acres are being renovated for 2021 completion GARDEN, from pg. 11

Display Garden at WCROC — to do research which ultimately benefits the that were part of his breeding program, public. To that end they have monthly plus a lot of the other hostas out there programs in their “Come Grow with in the trade that are well-established Us” series. But one can learn simply by and hardy for our area.” visiting the Garden, which is free and “We work with families to create garopen dawn to dusk daily. Not interestdens to honor them or in someone’s ed in learning? The Garden is a place memory. We work with the family on to refresh one’s spirit simply by strollthe design and put in their favorite ing around. flowers, shrubs, trees, whatever else, If you can’t get to Morris, the and they give us a financial contribuUniversity of Minnesota College of tion.”

Food, Agriculture, and Natural The Display Garden, with all of its A gazebo provides a place to relax in one The Shade Garden was created with the Resource Sciences has 10 research themed gardens, “takes an army” to of the numerous scenic spots in the gar- help of the family of Ken Anderson of facilities around the state. Check them Farwell. It memorializes Anderson who care for it, Poppe said. He has three den. out at https://www.cfans.umn.edu/ hybridized some of the hostas included other full-time or part-time people who research/roc-centers. To see more about in the garden. help him with the education, marketing the Horticulture Display Garden at and development. During the growing WCROC go to https://wcroc.cfans.umn. season, there are eight full-time stuedu/public-gardens. dents — a couple of which might have As much as they look forward to your internships related to research projvisit, the Horticulture Display Garden ects. Between 30 and 40 volunteers fill is not currently open. Here is their out the work force. statement: “The current state of the The latest renovation is the main country has been unlike anything entrance of the Garden. we’ve seen or experienced before.

University leadership is providing us As Poppe described it, “The old retainwith guidance and support as we naviing wall structure was removed, and gate through the COVID-19 crisis. To new hardscapes, benches, and concrete protect the health and safety of our planters were installed. Since this area is located near blacktop pavement, it is The Heritage Garden features plants You won›t find many tropical gardens in employees and the public, the West Central Research and Outreach Center typically hot and dry, and therefore an typically found on a homestead in the Morris, Minn. is functioning under reduced operaideal location to showcase plants and 1950s. tions. This means our office building perennials that do well under hot and city park, and to the University of Minnesota-Morris and grounds are closed to the public, including the dry growing conditions.” campus that has a great connection with trails. We’re Horticulture Display Garden. We are diligently workThere is an ongoing project on the west side of the going to establish that with pollinator-friendly forbes ing to determine the next steps for the coming weeks Garden. In 2008 they completed the Pomme de Terre and grasses. Then we’ll have information kiosks, and months. Thank you for your patience and underoverlook of the Pomme de Terre River valley. wayside shelters to again give homeowners an idea of standing during this time.”

“We are completely renovating 17 acres,” Poppe what they can do in their back yard or farm, how For updates, consult https://wcroc.cfans.umn.edu/ said. “It’s a three-year project to be completed in they can enhance for pollinator-friendly plants.” news/covid19. v 2021. There’s a trail that goes to the Pomme de Terre That again brings out the purpose of the Horticulture

Timing Your Nitrogen Applications

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agronomy

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 13

Introducing the From The Fields reporters for 2020 Spring 2020 off to  Wentzel farm FROM T features a variety an exciting start H  for Pulk family E of crops



By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer After a challenging harvest in 2019 which included hail and lots of rain, Andy Pulk is more than ready for better conditions all around this year. For Pulk, who farms near Wannaska, Minn., 2019 harvest actually wrapped up this March as he was able to get in the field then to finish picking corn. “The quality Andy Pulk was significantly better than where it was standing last fall,” Pulk said.

The Land spoke with Pulk on May 5 on a chilly day with temperatures in the 40s. “We have not turned a wheel yet. We tried moving some equipment Monday and some of the shanks are still frozen,” Pulk said.

He was hopeful that he could get some tillage done starting on May 9. Last year Pulk started planting May 6 and wrapped up on May 15.

Pulk will be planting 1,500 acres of RoundUpready soybeans, 500 acres of non-GMO food-grade soybeans, 500 acres of corn and has 500 acres of grass seed in the ground from last year. Pulk isn’t planning on planting wheat this year as the price is not where he wants it to be. He has fields with corn stubble that won’t be ready to plant for at least 20 more days. Planting is currently 10 to 12 days behind average. Unfortunately, there’s chances for rain and snow in the seven-day forecast.

“I’m not pessimistic, but I’m not super optimistic.”

See PULK, pg. 18

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By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer “My parents started farming out here by Murdock. I’ve been farming my whole life.” For Todd Wentzel, every year in farming presents its own challenges. This year is no exception — especially when it comes to commodity prices.

Wentzel has been farming full time since 1983. He took over his Todd Wentzel parents’ poultry operation with his wife, Shari in 2000. They raised pullets until 2012.

“We were contract growers. I miss a lot of things about it.”

Wentzel decided he wanted to focus more on crops and his seed business, as the poultry industry was changing at that time.

Wentzel has been selling seed since 1990. He and Shari are Golden Harvest seed dealers. Wentzel and Shari formed a farming partnership in 2001 with his parents, Melvin and Elaine, along with his brother, Craig, and sister-in-law, Bonnie.

This spring Wentzel planted wheat, corn, soybeans and will be planting black turtle beans for the first time. He added black turtle beans to his planting rotation for more income opportunity. Besides that, “we’re not changing a lot, with the economy the way it is,” he said.

Wentzel planted wheat on April 17 and finished on

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer On the Deters farm near Sauk Centre, Minn. you’ll find 600 cows and 1,200 acres of corn, alfalfa and hay grass. Colby Deters grew up there and now he and his wife, Claire, farm with his older brother Shane and his wife Amanda — along with his parents, Jeff and Karen.

Deters has been farming full time Colby Deters since graduating from college in 2013. Every spring can be a challenge to get the crops in the ground, though this year planting has gone better than usual on the Deters farm. He seeded alfalfa on April 23 to 26. “It went in really nice, we’re happy with how that turned out.”

With the weather cooperating, Deters was able to take his time doing more complete field work this spring. “We focused on doing a lot of manure spreading — more than we normally do.” Deters started around April 9 on manure spreading then he shifted See DETERS, pg. 18 See WENTZEL, pg. 18

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PAGE 14

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

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 15

“I bought about 20 or so of your willows just a few years ago. I wanted some privacy from the street at our home. I will say I am very happy with the willows. First off, they all survived and they are looking great. We live in Michigan and winters can be tough but these willows are doing fine. These pictures are from summer of 2019. Glad I found your trees.”

– Christopher E

“The SuperTree Hybrid Willows we purchased last spring are already providing us with a privacy screen and shade. Our neighbors are amazed that we have gotten nearly 12 feet of growth already since we planted them.”

– Mike L. - Sioux Falls, SD “Every single one of the 250 SuperTrees I purchased last spring made it through the winter and are still growing like weeds.

It won’t be long now until we cannot see our neighbor’s ugly backyard.”

– John W. - Sibley, IA

PAGE 16

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

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

MARKETING

Grain Outlook Corn market rally unlikely

Cash Grain Markets corn/change* soybeans/change*

Stewartville Edgerton Jackson Janesville Cannon Falls Sleepy Eye

$2.75 +.20 $2.82 +.20 $2.76 +.18 $2.70 +.23 $2.82 +.18 $2.74 +.16

$8.01 +.20 $8.07 +.33 $8.03 +.20 $8.05 +.20 $8.12 +.24 $7.97 +.26

Financial Focus Tax relief options for individuals

The following marketing analysis is for the week ending May 8.

CORN — Corn managed to eke out a minimal gain this week after a quiet week of trading. Prices stayed within the previous week’s trading range. Headlines were scarce on a daily basis, but demand is improving from both the export and domestic sectors.

Strength late in the week came from very good sales announced to China. Earlier in the week, President Trump was threatening to end the Phase 1 trade deal if China doesn’t live up to their side of the agreement. He also criticized the way China handled the Covid-19 situation.

China bought 317,000 metric PHYLLIS NYSTROM tons of old crop corn and 315 tmt CHS Hedging Inc. of new crop corn on May 7, which St. Paul set the stage for follow-through support into the weekend. On the domestic side, reports of ethanol plants coming back on-line and operating plants increasing basis levels, and meat packers slowly reopening, provided a more optimistic view. Ethanol prices have rebounded 25 cents per gallon off their lows.

U.S. corn planting as of May 3 was 51 percent complete — well ahead of the 39 percent average.

Minnesota was 76 percent planted, Iowa 78 percent, and Illinois 56 percent. Emergence was 8 percent compared to 10 percent on average. Forecasts for freezing temperatures in the Midwest for May 8-11 provided a small degree of support to prices; but with emergence low and lots of time for any replanting, the concern is muted.

The average trade guess for old crop carryout on the May World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report is 2.224 billion bushels. Last month, they were estimated at 2.092 billion bushels. We’ll get our first peek at the 2020-21 balance sheets. New crop ending stocks are predicted to surge to 3.389 billion bushels, the highest since 1988. World ending stocks for old crop are forecast at 305.74 million metric tons vs. 303.17 mmt last month. New crop world stocks are projected at 319.56 mmt. Argentina’s corn crop is estimated at 49.54 mmt vs. 50 mmt in April.

Brazil’s corn crop is estimated at 99.28 mmt vs. 101 mmt last month. Dryness in parts of Brazil may result in a smaller corn number as safrinha corn is stressed.

The volatility in the livestock markets is still alive and well; and it would appear it will continue to stay alive for the near term ahead. The good news is, prices have begun to rebound in all sectors of livestock marketing after being under pressure for weeks.

The recovery has been very rapid in all the sectors — particularly in the cutouts of both cattle and hogs. The cash price paid for live inventory by the packer has finally increased in the past several weeks. This break and recovery is unprecedentedly by the outbreak of the coronavirus JOE TEALE which has influenced every Broker aspect of livestock marketing at all levels. Hopefully, as the pan- Great Plains Commodity Afton, Minn. demic subsides in the weeks ahead, we will see a return to more normal marketing conditions at all levels.

As far as the cattle market is concerned, the recovery has been led by the quick recovery in cash prices paid by the packers in the past several weeks. The discount the futures market had built in was quickly recovered by large short covering and renewed buying interest as cash prices moved higher. This produced a couple of days of limit up moves which narrowed the discount of futures to cash.

Beef cutouts have increased substantially from the public buying excessive amounts of beef as a protection of being restricted because of the lock down across the country. This will result in higher retail

The coronavirus pandemic has affected virtually every facet of American life and severely impacted the markets and economy. Congress and the federal government have acted to help individuals and businesses get through this difficult time. Most recently, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) Act on March 27. The following are highlights of the federal relief opportunities available to individuals.

The IRS postponed the due date for both filing an income tax return and for making income tax payments to July 15. The postponement is automatic. Payments which may be postponed are limited to federal income tax payMARISSA ments in respect of a taxpayer’s JOHNSON 2019 taxable year; and federal Profinium estimated income tax payments Registered Representative for a taxpayer’s 2020 taxable year. The extension is available to all taxpayers — including individuals, trusts and estates, corporations and other non-corporate entities, including those who pay self-employment tax.

As a result of the extension, any interest, penalty, or addition to tax for failure to file or pay tax will not begin to accrue until July 16.

The deadline for making 2019 IRA contributions has also been extended to July 15.

The deadline for making 2019 contributions to health savings accounts (HSAs) and Archer medical savings accounts (MSAs) has been extended until July 15.

Cash payments, called “recovery rebates,” are available to U.S. residents with income below certain levels who cannot be claimed as a dependent of another taxpayer and who have a Social Security number. Technically, the rebates are advance refunds of credits against 2020 taxes. The rebate amounts are $1,200 for individuals and $2,400 for married joint filers, with an additional $500 for each qualifying child under age 17. The amount of each rebate phases out by $5 for each $100 of adjusted gross income greater than $75,000 (single filers) or $150,000 (married joint filers), based upon AGI as reported on the 2018 federal tax return (or 2019 tax return, if filed). Thus, rebates are fully phased out at $99,000 (single filers) and $198,000 (married joint filers). Individuals do not need to do anything to receive the rebate. The IRS will make payments elec-

See NYSTROM, pg. 17

See TEALE, pg. 17

See JOHNSON, pg. 20

Average:

$2.77

$8.04

Year Ago Average: $3.37 $7.46 Grain prices are effective cash close on May 12. *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.

Livestock Angles Prices are beginning to rebound

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 — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 17

Phase 1 trade agreement still up in the air NYSTROM, from pg. 16 Weekly export sales were viewed as neutral at 30.5 million bushels. Total commitments are down 19 percent from last year at 1.477 billion bushels. As of percentage of the U.S. Department of Agriculture export forecast, we are at 85 percent which is the highest percentage since 2017. We need to average 11.3 million bushels of sales per week to hit the USDA’s 1.725-billion-bushel forecast. This should allow the USDA to keep exports steady on next week’s update.

Weekly ethanol production rose by 61,000 barrels per day to 598,000 bpd. This is the first increase in nine weeks. Stocks fell by 700,000 barrels to 25.6 million barrels. Net ethanol margins were a dime better at a plus 10 cents per gallon. Gasoline demand was 804,000 bpd higher last week at 6.66 million bpd.

The demand over the last four weeks is down nearly 40 percent from last year. Corn for ethanol use will likely be lowered on the May report.

The Buenos Aires Grain Exchange estimated Argentina’s corn harvest at 38 percent complete, slightly ahead of the 31 percent average. Conditions fell 1 percent to 36 percent good/excellent. Production was left alone at 50 mmt.

The unemployment rate in the United States soared to a post-World War II record at 14.7 percent in April. This was slightly lower than the 16 percent estimate. We lost 20.5 million jobs during April, the worst on record.

Outlook: Corn closed higher two days in a row as traders headed to the weekend. Corn hasn’t closed higher on a Monday since March 2, so we’ll see if buy-

MARKETING ers show up the day before the WASDE report. Many believe the lows are in for the time being, but any recoveries will still be viewed as bounces, not as rallies, with a burdensome balance sheet. The coming week will be dominated by the May WASDE report on May 12 and the outcome of U.S./Chinese trade talks.

For the week, July corn squeezed out a three-quarter-cent gain to close at $3.19.25 and December corn fell a penny to $3.35.75 per bushel.

SOYBEANS — Soybeans got off to rough start to begin the week and were fairly stagnant until the latter half of the week when rumors of Chinese interest resurfaced. China purchased 135 tmt of old crop soybeans and 242 tmt of new crop soybeans early in the week. This confirmed the rumors they were looking at the August/September time frame. Another sale of 120 tmt of soybeans to unknown was announced on May 8.

There have been concerns that the Phase 1 trade deal may not come to fruition. However, representatives held phone talks this week. By all accounts, they ended on a positive note that China will uphold the agreement. There were reports China was also buying soybeans this week from Brazil for March/ April/May 2021. According to data from the Farm Bureau, China has only bought 10 percent of their agreed to ag imports a third of the way into the year.

China imported 6.7 mmt of soybeans in April, down 12 percent from a year ago. In the first four months of the year, they have imported 24.5 mmt. Brazil’s

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

Hogs moving up and down quickly TEALE, from pg. 16 prices for beef which will likely slow demand. In turn, this forces beef cutouts lower which could hurt the price of cattle by the packer.

With the closure of many packing houses because of the Covid-19, a reduction in the kill has been backing up cattle which are ready for market. This is also a negative to prices of cattle at the feedlot level until we get back to a normal kill volume. Thus it would appear the cattle market may be subject to another fall in prices in the short term until things get back to normal.

On a more positive note longer term, look for a continuation of lighter placements which will reduce the supply of finished cattle in the months ahead.

The hog market continues to be the leader of high

volatility as prices continue to move very quickly in either direction. The good news is the demand for pork continues to be a positive for the overall market.

This has caused the futures market to rally enough to move from a discount to a premium to cash.

The pork cutouts have improved to levels not seen in some time. However, the cash prices paid for hogs have improved; but not at the same pace as the cutout values. With the temporary closures of pork packing plants, hogs could tend to back up which could result in cash prices slipping once again until we get back to full slaughter levels. Therefore, look for a continuation of the roller coaster ride of prices at the cash level in the weeks ahead until things get back to more normal at all levels. v

soybean exports in April were an all-time record for a single month at 16.3 mmt (600 million bushels).

This equates to roughly one-third of the total U.S. soybean export outlook. The monthly record of U.S. soybean exports is 410 million bushels set in October 2016.

Brazilian farmers have been heavy sellers of both old and new soybeans as the real continued to slide to new lows vs. the U.S. dollar. It’s believed Brazilian farmers have sold over 85 percent of this year’s crop and over 35 percent of next year’s crop. At some point, Brazilian farmers will “run out” of beans to sell and the window will open wider for U.S. opportunities. Abiove raised Brazil’s export forecast for 2020 to 77 mmt, up 1.7 mmt from their previous outlook.

This slashes their ending stocks nearly in half of the previous estimate to 1.87 mmt. The Buenos Aires Grains Exchange kept Argentina’s soybean production at 49.5 mmt with conditions unchanged at 23 percent good/excellent. Harvest is 78 percent complete vs. 56 percent on average.

The average trade expectation for old crop U.S. ending stocks is 488 million bushels vs. 480 million in April. For new crop, ending stocks are pegged at 430 million bushels. World ending stocks for 2019-20 are estimated at 99.73 mmt compared to 100.45 mmt in April. New crop world ending stocks are expected at 104.04 mmt. Argentina’s soybean production is forecast at 51.36 mmt vs. 52 mmt in April. Brazil’s soybean crop is estimated at 123.13 mmt compared to 124.50 mmt last month.

Weekly export sales were at the low end of expectations at 24 million bushels. Total commitments at 1.459 billion bushels are down 12 percent from last year. Exports are running at 82 percent of the USDA projection, which is the lowest percentage for this time of year since 1991. We need to average 18.6 million bushels of sales per week to reach the USDA 1.775-billion-bushel outlook. This number may decline on next week’s report.

Soybean planting in the United States was 23 percent complete vs. 11 percent on average. Planting is estimated at 45 percent by May 10. Iowa had 46 percent of their soybeans planted, Minnesota 35 percent, and Illinois 31 percent.

Outlook: The May 12 WASDE report will influence prices, but weather and Chinese actions will also be significant factors in price direction. Additional confirmation of Chinese buying and their intention to honor the recent trade agreement and improving feed demand will help build a price base.

For the week, July soybeans were a penny higher at $8.50.5 and the November contract was a half-cent higher at $8.55.5 per bushel.

Nystrom’s Notes: Contract changes for the week as of the close on May 8: Chicago July wheat rallied 5.5 cents to $5.22, Kansas City dropped 3 cents to $4.80, and Minneapolis jumped 9.25 cents higher to $5.16 per bushel. June crude oil soared 25 percent higher for the week to $24.74 per barrel. v

PAGE 18

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

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Pulk

from pg. 13 This spring is simply like no other with tough commodity prices and a pandemic, it isn’t business as usual. “I feel fortunate that we have job security and can continue our lives as normal,” Pulk said.

Outside of farm life, Pulk proudly serves on the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association board. “I’m excited to be involved on that level,” he said.

Pulk and his wife, Heidi, have five children: Sarah, 11; Madi, 8; Emily, 7 and twins John and Henry, 5.

This spring has already been an eventful one. On March 30 little John fell into a drainage ditch across from the farm.

Deters

from pg. 13 to tillage and picking rocks. “We always take rock picking really seriously.” He was able to concentrate on that this spring due to the good weather.

Deters began planting corn on April 27, he will be planting 950 acres of corn this year. When The Land spoke with him on May 5, he had 100 acres of corn left to plant. With a little rain falling on May 5, there will be no planting done that day. “We’ll start again tomorrow,” Deters said. Planting conditions have been favorable so far this spring.

Deters picked up some rented acres which were not fall tilled, so he had to do some prep work on that before planting corn there.

On the dairy side, the lack of a wet spring has been helpful for the health of both heifers and calves. “Production

Wentzel

from pg. 13

April 21. “It was a pretty typical start date. Great, nice conditions for the most part.”

On April 21 Wentzel was able to start planting corn. That was earlier than average. Wentzel was done with all but 75 acres of corn as of April 27 when he switched to soybeans. He switched back to corn on May 3 and finished up planting. Wentzel started planting beans on April 28, and now has 80 percent in the ground.

The Land spoke with Wentzel on May 5 as he reported that .15 of an inch of rain fell that day. “Welcome sign in the spring to get a little rain on them (crops.)” Wentzel should be able to finish up beans in the next few days. “The soil has been working up nice.” He will be

As he swept through a culvert and came out the other side, quick thinking by sister Madi saved John’s life. She jumped in the frigid water, pulled him to safety and began CPR. He was rushed to a local hospital, then transferred to Sanford in Fargo, N.D. John made a full recovery and is back at home enjoying time with family. After that scare, Pulk seems resolute to handle any challenge in farming that may come his way.

While planting may not have begun on the Pulk farm, there has already been plenty of excitement with an important reminder that life is precious, and sisters can make the best heroes! v

has been solid,” Deters said.

After Deters finishes planting corn, he’ll focus on transitioning into summer hay production. Earlier in the spring “we were able to do some corn straw bailing off some neighbor’s field.

We got some nice straw.” Having the opportunity to do corn straw bailing was a nice bonus this spring for Deters.

Over the next few weeks, Deters will focus on fixing up and maintaining equipment, along with doing some manure hauling and piling before the heat and flies come in.

With planting just about wrapped up and solid field conditions, spring is off to a great start on Deters’ farm. “We’re really feeling good at where we’re standing.” v

planting the black turtle beans later in the month. This spring has been much kinder to farmers in the area as planting conditions have been significantly better than the wet spring of last year.

When not in the field, Wentzel is active in various commodity boards. He was elected to the Minnesota Corn Growers Association in January and is honored to contribute and serve on the board.

Todd and Shari are the proud parents to four grown children and five precious grandkids.

This spring has been filled with unknowns; but having pleasant planting conditions is a welcome relief for Wentzel and one that he is grateful for.

“I’m optimistic with the crop prospects.” v

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 19

Dairy producers seeing a little light in the tunnel This column was written for the marketing week ending May 8.

WE BUILD OUR STALLS RIGHT! Light is appearing in the Covid-19 Take a look at tunnel for dairy farmers. However, there our tubing with are still dark days ahead in their milk unequaled corrosion checks. FC Stone dairy broker Dave News and information for Minnesota and Northern Iowa dairy producersprotection!

Kurzawski talked about the ‘light’ in the May 4 Dairy Radio Now broadcast.

Freudenthal Tubing has been the third quarter — enabling the U.S. purchases that normally run $400-$450 million.

MIELKE MARKET “We’re seeing strength return to dairy engineered for your Department of Agriculture to purchase sur- They start with the trade mitigation program,specific WEEKLY markets due to pipeline refilling,” he requirements where strength plus food for distribution to communities which is ongoing and stems fromandthe China/Mexico corrosion resistance are said. Late March, early April, the supCORROSION Auto Release Head

By Lee Mielke nationwide. tariffLocks tradePanel war issue; then the Section 32factors. purchascritical design ply chain did not want to keep product PROTECTION es; the Family First Corona Virus Relief Act; and $120 million was earmarked to purchase in coolers that they weren’t sure they lastly, the Food Box program which will purchase dairy products in July, August and September. A could sell. Eventually, that inventory got worked CS-60 Comfort Tie supported Stall fresh fruit and dairy. “The market is well down. The supply chain, which is normally very con- USDA press release stated, “The purchases will provide additional support for producers and Americans for the time being,” Kurzawski concluded. sistent, saw that wave of demand return, the pipeThe Toughest in need, in response to changing market conditions Speaking of supply chain, Tyson Foods stated line get refilled, plus states started to reopen — at Stalls May 4 the coronavirus crisis will continue to idle U.S. least partially for limited restaurant service. Add to caused by the Covid-19 national emergency.” meat plants and slow production — despiteon the that, government intervention.

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

PAGE 20

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

Cash dairy prices continue upward trend in early May MIELKE, from pg. 19 Kroger, are therefore limiting customer meat purchases and at least one major fast food chain has reported being short of beef for hamburgers. n There was some encouragement in this week’s Global Dairy Trade auction. Even though butter and cheese pulled this week’s weighted average down 0.8 percent, it was less than expected and followed the hefty 4.2 percent drop April 21. Some 36.2 million pounds of product was offered, lowest total in a year.

The losses were led by buttermilk powder, down 10.3 percent. GDT cheddar was down 6.8 percent following a 1.9 percent uptick on April, and butter was down 5.8 percent after a 3.6 percent decline.

Rennet casein was down 5.1 percent and anhydrous milkfat was off 2.4 percent after leading the losses last time at 7 percent.

Gains were led by lactose, up 7.9 percent, and skim milk and whole milk powder. Both were up 0.1 percent following declines of 4.9 and 3.9 percent respectively last time.

FC Stone equated the GDT 80 percent butterfat butter price to $1.7112 per pound U.S., down 11.1 cents from the last event. Chicago Mercantile Exchange butter closed May 8 at $1.29. GDT ched-

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dar cheese equated to $1.8665 per pound, down 16.5 cents, and compares to CME’s May 8 block cheddar at $1.3050. GDT skim milk powder averaged $1.0763 per pound and whole milk powder averaged $1.2452. CME Grade A nonfat dry milk closed May 8 at 82.50 cents per pound. n Cash dairy prices continued their upward trend the first week of May. The cheddar blocks closed May 8 at $1.3050 per pound. This is up 10 cents on the week, up 29.25 cents in three weeks, but still a whopping 37.5 cents below a year ago. The barrels finished at $1.27, up 8 cents on the week and 44 cents below a year ago. Eight cars of block traded

hands on the week at the CME and 50 of barrel.

Spot butter also moved higher, gaining 10.25 cents on the week with a $1.29 per pound close, but $1.05 below a year ago. Fifteen cars found new homes on the week.

Cream remains available, according to central churners, but multiples are stronger. Food service has perked up, but the numbers remain well below previous years. Retail is quite a bit stronger and inventories have been moving well, as unexpected market prices and grocery store demand have spurred on buyers. Market tones are “resolutely positive when See MIELKE, pg. 22

Most states also providing tax relief JOHNSON, from pg. 17 tronically, if possible, and will send a notice to the taxpayer’s last known address within 15 days of payment stating the payment amount and method.

All required minimum distributions (RMDs) from IRAs and retirement plans are waived — including RMDs from inherited IRAs (both traditional and Roth). The RMD waiver includes 2019 RMDs which were previously due by April 1, 2020.

The CARES Act waives the 10 percent penalty applicable to early distributions for coronavirusrelated distributions up to $100,000 from IRAs and qualified defined contribution retirement plans such as 401(k), 403(b), and governmental 457(b) plans. A coronavirus-related distribution is a distribution made during calendar year 2020 to an individual (or spouse) diagnosed with Covid-19 by a CDC-approved test, or to one who experiences adverse financial consequences as a result of quarantine, business closure, layoff, or reduced hours due to the coronavirus. In addition, any income attributable to an early withdrawal is subject to income tax over a three-year period unless the individual elects to have it all included in their 2020 income. Finally, individuals may recontribute the withdrawn amounts back into an IRA or plan within three years without violating the 60-day rollover rule or annual contribution limits.

Before the CARES Act, a participant could borrow from a retirement plan the lesser of 50 percent of the vested account balance or $50,000 (reduced by other outstanding loans). Beginning March 27 through 180 days thereafter, the maximum loan amount increases to the lesser of 100 percent of the vested account balance or $100,000 (reduced by other outstanding loans). In addition, participants who had outstanding loans as of March 27 may defer for one year any payments normally due from March 27 through Dec. 31.

Individuals who claim the standard deduction may also claim a new above-the-line deduction up to $300 for cash contributions made in 2020 to certain charities. Individuals who itemize deductions and make

cash contributions in 2020 to certain charities may claim an itemized deduction up to 100 percent of AGI (increased from 60 percent). Eligible charities are those described in Section 170(b)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code (for instance churches, educational organizations, and organizations providing medical or hospital care or research) and do not include donor advised funds or Section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations.

Payments (principal and interest) on federal student loans are suspended through Sept. 30 without penalty. Interest will not accrue on these loans during this suspension period. In addition, from March 27 through Dec. 31, an employer may contribute up to $5,250 annually toward an employee’s student loans, and such payment will be excluded from the employee’s income.

Unemployment benefits have been expanded to assist those who have lost their job during the current economic crisis. Because unemployment benefits are administered by the states (although each state follows the same guidelines established by federal law), check with your state program to determine eligibility requirements and how to file a claim.

As you can see, the federal government has created many ways individuals and businesses may receive assistance to get through current financial difficulties. Additionally, most states have provided their own relief such as a delay of the state income tax filing deadline or a temporary grace period for making mortgage payments.

This communication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information on the subjects covered. It is not, however, intended to provide specific legal, tax, or other professional advice. For specific professional assistance, the services of an appropriate professional should be sought.

To learn more about how Profinium is a full financial health solutions center offering banking, mortgage, insurance, trust and wealth planning services in Southern Minnesota, visit Profinium.com. v

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

PAGE 21

Price declines could deliver program payments to farmers Corn prices have declined significantly This would further enhance PLC payin the past couple of months, due to the ment levels for corn and increase the coronavirus outbreak and greatly likelihood or level of 2019 ARC-CO payreduced ethanol production. Soybean ments for corn and soybeans in many prices also declined somewhat in March counties which are not at maximum payand April, and wheat prices have ment levels. remained quite low. While the lower corn For the 2019 and 2020 crop years, 76 perand soybean prices are having a negative cent of the corn base acres in the United financial impact for farm operators with States are enrolled in the price-only, price FARM PROGRAMS remaining 2019 grain inventory, as well loss coverage (PLC) farm program choice, as on prices for 2020 crop production, the and only 19 percent in the county yieldBy Kent Thiesse lower prices will likely result in higher based Ag Risk Coverage (ARC-CO) levels of 2019 farm program payprogram choice. By comparison, 94 ments for many producers. percent of the corn base acres were All farm program payments are enrolled in the ARC-CO program from based on the national market 2014-2018. In 2014, producers Corn ARC-CO Payment Estimates year average price for a given needed to make a one-time farm The following counties are likely to receive crop commodity. The 2019 marprogram choice for five years 2019 ARC-CO payments for corn: ket year average price for corn (2014-2018), while the current Maximum payment level per base acre: and soybeans is the 12-month program choice is only for two Cottonwood = $65 Nobles = $63 average price from Sept. 1, years (2019 and 2020).

Pipestone = $63 2019 to Aug. 31, 2020. The mar- Hennepin = $58 The biggest change causing the Jackson = $63 Rock = $66 ket year average price was shift in the PLC and ARC-CO finalized on Sept. 30, 2019. The Murray = $64 farm program choice for corn was 2019 market year average price Other ARC-CO payments/base acre: the decline in the benchmark for wheat and other small price from $5.29 per bushel in Lincoln = $40-$50 Wabasha = $30-$40 grains is the average price from Martin = $30-$40 both 2014 and 2015 to $3.70 per Watonwan = $30-$40 June 1, 2019 to May 31, 2020. bushel for 2019 and 2020. The Mille Lacs = $20-$30 Yellow Medicine = Small grain market year averbenchmark price of $3.70 per Steele = $10-$20 $10-$20 age price will be finalized on bushel is the same as the referTraverse = $40-$50 June 30. Any 2019 farm proence price for corn that is used to gram payments earned will be Soybean ARC-CO Payment Estimates calculate PLC payments. paid after Oct. 1, 2020.

The following counties are likely to receive 2019 PLC payments are initiated ARC-CO payments for soybeans: The market year average when the market year average price is based on the monthly $40 or more per Base Acre: corn price drops below $3.70 average farm-level market Blue Earth Brown Cottonwood per bushel, while 2019 ARC-CO price received by producers Dodge Jackson Murray payments require more than a across the United States, Nobles Pipestone Rock 14 percent decline below the which is then “weighted” at the Steele Watonwan Yellow Medicine market year average price to end of the marketing year, generate an ARC-CO payment, based on the volume of bushels $30 to $39 per Base Acre: if the final county average RMA Faribault Hennepin Lincoln sold in each month. Market yield is equal to the benchmark Mower Stevens Swift year average price estimates yield. The ARC-CO program are updated on a monthly basis Traverse Waseca was attractive for corn in some in the U.S. Department of $20 to $29 per Base Acre: counties due to very low 2019 Agriculture’s World Big Stone Chippewa Freeborn average corn yields.

Agricultural Supply and Isanti Lyon Martin The 2019 benchmark price for Demand Estimates report — Nicollet Redwood Renville soybeans is $9.63 per bushel, usually released around the $19 or less per Base Acre: which is well below the benchmiddle of each month.

Chisago Douglas Fillmore mark price of $12.27 per bushel As of April 1, USDA was esti- Goodhue Grant Kittson in both 2014 and 2015. mating the 2019 market year Mille Lacs Pine Wabasha However, it is still well above average prices at $3.60 per Winona the soybean PLC reference bushel for corn, $8.65 per bush- Notes: Some counties did not have 2019 NASS yield estiprice of $8.40 per bushel. The mates, so there were no ARC-CO calculations. el for soybeans, and $4.60 per 2019 benchmark price for ARC-CO payment estimates were based off of NASS yields bushel for wheat. Many anawheat is $5.66 per bushel, but and may change with RMA yields. lysts expect the market year will decline to $5.50 per bushel average price for both the corn ARC-CO payment estimates were based on current 2019 for 2020, which is the same as market year average price estimates (as of May 1). and soybeans to decline anoththe reference price for wheat.

Tables prepared by Kent Thiesse er 5 to 10 cents per bushel by As a result, the higher benchthe end of the marketing year. mark price together with

MARKETING

reduced 2019 soybean yields in many areas was favorable for farm program enrollment in the ARCCO program for soybeans; while the low projected 2019 market year average price for wheat was more favorable for enrollment in the PLC program.

For 2019 and 2020, 80 percent of the soybean base acres are enrolled in ARC-CO and only 14 percent in PLC. For wheat, 93 percent of the base acres are enrolled in the PLC program and only 6 percent in ARC-CO. For ARC-CO calculations, the benchmark revenue for a given crop is the county benchmark yield times the benchmark price, which is multiplied by 86 percent to calculate the “county revenue guarantee.”

The county benchmark yield for 2019 is the average county yield for the five years from 2013-2017, dropping the high and low yield, and the averaging the other three yields. County benchmark yields for corn and soybeans have increased in recent years, due to very good yield averages from 2015-2017.

ARC-CO payments for a given crop are paid when the actual county revenue for the crop falls below the county benchmark revenue guarantee. The actual county revenue is the final Risk Management Agency county average yield times the final market year average price for the year.

USDA has not yet released the final county RMA average yields for 2019, which will be used to calculate final 2019 ARC-CO payments. However, USDA has released the National Agricultural Statistics Service estimated 2019 average county average yields for corn, soybeans, and other crops, which can offer a good estimate of potential 2019 ARC-CO payments. The 2019 NASS county yields are available on the NASS web site at http://www.nass.usda.gov/.

Approximately, 6 percent of the corn and soybean base acres were enrolled in the farm yield-based Ag Risk Coverage (ARC-IC) program choice for 2019 and 2020. ARC-IC utilizes the same market year average price as PLC and ARC-CO. However, ARCIC calculates all crops on a farm together and utilizes farm-level historic and 2019 crop yields for calculations. The high level of prevent plant acres and very low yields on some farms in 2019 made near maximum 2019 ARC-IC payments likely for many producers in some areas.

See THIESSE, pg. 22

d

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PAGE 22

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

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

More info on FSA website 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 email: theland@thelandonline.com

2020 Subscription Form Please complete the form below.

Sign and date, include your check and put it in the mail.

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I own or operate 80+ acres of Minnesota and/or Northern Iowa ag cropland, raise 25+ head of livestock or am actively involved in agribusiness.

Full Year Voluntary Subscription:  $29  Other

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I do not qualify but would like a one-year subscription.

Full Year Subscription:  $29

Important – Please check all boxes that best match your farming operation.

Acres Corn Soybeans Alfalfa Wheat Sugar Beets TOTAL ACRES

1-99

100-249

250-499

500-999

1000+

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     

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Hogs marketed  1-99  100-249 Sheep raised  1-99  100-249 Beef Cattle marketed  1-99  100-249 Dairy Cattle milked  1-50  51-99

Livestock Head  250-499

 500-999

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Mail to: THE LAND P. O. Box 3169 • Mankato, MN 56002 PLEASE PRINT Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address ____________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip ______________________________________________________________________ Phone # ____________________________________________________________________________ E-mail Address _____________________________________________________________________ Signature __________________________________________________ Date __________________

This form MUST BE signed and dated to meet postal regulations.

THIESSE, from pg. 21 Based on the curRefer to the table PLC Payment Estimates for Corn rent market year for 2019 PLC payFollowing are PLC payment estimates at average price estiment estimates for various FSA farm unit corn yields: mates and the corn and wheat NASS county yield 165 bu./acre at market year average $3.60/ and for 2019 ARCbu. = $14 per base acre; at market year estimates, followCO payment estiaverage $3.50/bu. = $28 per base acre. ing is an overview mates for corn and of potential 2019 150 bu./acre at market year average $3.60/ soybeans in PLC and ARC-CO Minnesota. All bu. = $12.75 per base acre; at market year payments: PLC payments are average $3.50/bu. = $25.50 per base acre. paid on Farm Corn — A PLC 135 bu./acre at market year average $3.60/ Service Agency payment of 10 to bu. = $11.50 per base acre; at market year farm unit yields, 20 cents per bushel average $3.50/bu. = $23 per base acre. which are usually is likely ($3.60lower than normal PLC Payment Estimates for Wheat $3.50 per bushel yields. PLC and Following are PLC payment estimates at market year averARC-CO payment various FSA farm unit wheat yields: age price). ARC-CO estimates may payments are like- 50 bu./acre at market year average $4.60/ change in future ly if the final RMA bu. = $38 per base acre; at market year months as market county yield is 10 average $4.70/bu. = $34 per base acre. year average prices percent or more 40 bu./acre at market year average $4.60/ change. ARC-CO below the benchbu. = $30.50 per base acre; at market year payment estimates mark yield. average $4.70/bu. = $27 per base acre. may change when Maximum ARC-CO final county RMA 30 bu./acre at market year average $4.60/ payment will likely yields are used for bu. = $23 per base acre; at market year occur with a 22 calculations. average $4.70/bu. = $20.50 per base acre. percent or more yield decline.

2019 benchmark yields and reveSoybeans — No nues; previous county yields for corn, PLC payments are likely (reference soybeans, and other crops; 2014-2018 price is $8.40 per bushel). ARC-CO farm program payment levels; and payments are likely with a final 2019 RMA county yield decline of 2-3 bush- other farm program information are available on the FSA ARC-PLC web els per acre below the benchmark site: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programsyield. Maximum ARC-CO payment and-services/arcplc_program/index will likely occur with a 15 percent yield decline.

Kent Thiesse is a government farm programs analyst and a vice president Wheat — A PLC payment of 85 to at MinnStar Bank in Lake Crystal, 90 cents per bushel is likely ($4.65$4.60 per bushel market year average Minn. He may be reached at (507) 7262137 or kent.thiesse@minnstarbank. price). Near-maximum ARC-CO paycom. v ments are also likely in many areas.

Retail demand is stable MIELKE, from pg. 19 compared to the past month.”

Retail demand is mostly stable compared to the previous week and the food service and the ingredient industries continue to see limited movements however sales have increased a bit.

Many processors are churning butter to clear the abundant supplies of cream; but butter inventories are growing and storage space has tightened up.

Grade A nonfat dry milk finished May 8 at 82.50 cents per pound. This is 3.25

cents higher on the week, but 24.25 cents below a year ago, on five sales.

Dry whey hit 40 cents per pound on May 5 — a CME price not seen since August 2019; but closed May 8 at 39.75 cents per pound. This is a quarter-cent higher on the week and 5 cents above a year ago. Two cars were traded on the week at the CME. 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

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

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Farm Equipment thought about selling con- $3,995/OBO/EA. 507-381-6719 tact: Paul Krueger, Farm & Land Specialist, Edina Re2012 JD 8285R MFD, Front alty, 138 Main St. W., New dual ready, early engine reBins & Buildings Prague, MN 55372. build w/warranty, new rear paulkrueger@edinarealty.com tires, in-field work, very Barn and Quonset Roofing (612)328-4506 nice, $92,500. 715-572-1234 and Straightening.

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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 NEW Massey 6713 w/cab and loader ........... On Hand NEW Versatile 610 Wheeled .......................... On Hand NEW Versatile DT610 trac ............................. On Hand NH TL100 w/cab ................................................22,500 Massey 8690 CVT..........................................$135,000 Massey 1552 w/loader .................................... $21,500 ‘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 ‘96 White 6175 FWA....................................... $41,500 ‘96 White 6175 2wd ........................................ $27,500

New NH Hay Tools - ON HAND

TILLAGE ‘14 Sunflower 4412-05.....................................$30,000 ‘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

PLANTERS ‘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 8202 12 row .......................................... Coming White 6222 forward fold w/liq ......................... $10,500

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 2-NH L225 ................................................. $24-27,000

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

PAGE 24

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

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020 If you’re having a Farm Auction, let other Farmers know it!

Upcoming Issues of THE LAND

INVESTIGATE BEFORE YOU INVEST! Midwest Free Community Paper Association does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising.

Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all classifieds and other ads which require an investment. (MCN) WRIGHTZ AUCTION CO. (PREVIOUSLY GILBERT’S) MACHINERY CONSIGNMENT SALE, JUNE 8, 9 AM. Consign Early for Complete Advertising. No Small Items, Tires after May 29. CONSIGN TODAY, 641-398-2218, Hwy 218, Floyd, IA, www. wrightzauctionco.com. (MCN) DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details.

855-752-6680 (MCN) DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CALL 1-855-977-7030 (MCN) CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer.

Competitive Offer! Nationwide FREE Pick Up! Call Now For a Free Quote! 888366-5659(MCN) COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Now offering a $10,000 scholarship qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! Call 855-960-0997. (M-F 8am6pm ET) (MCN) NOTE TO READERS! In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer “employment.” Some of them sell information on manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. It is always best to “investigate before you invest.”

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Family in the home were also exposed.

Call 1-866-795-3684 or email cancer@ breakinginjurynews.com. $30 billion is set aside for asbestos victims with cancer.

Valuable settlement moneys may not require filing a lawsuit. (MCN)

DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. 1-844-316-8876. (MCN) High-Speed Internet. We instantly compare speed, pricing, availability to find the best service for your needs. Starting at $39.99/month! Quickly compare offers from top providers. Call 1-855-399-9295 (MCN) Albany Ready Mix is hiring experienced Drivers. Willing to train.

Saturdays until noon. Must have Class A or B License. Benefits: health insurance, 401k, retirement, bonuses. Competitive wages. Call 320-290-1120. (MCN) Over $10K in Debt? Be debt free in 24 to 48 months. No upfront fees to enroll.

A+ BBB rated. Call National Debt Relief 855-995-1557. (MCN) Trailer Sale: 150 Trailers for SALE! Utility, Dump, Equipment, Motorcycle, & Enclosed cargo trailers. 100’s of parts, tires & wheels, bearings, seals, jacks & lights. For PRICES & INFO: www.

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Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-3723080 or visit www.walkintubquote.com/ midwest (MCN) DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company.

NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for 350 procedures. Call 1-855-9739175 for details. www.dental50plus.com/ midwest 6118-0219. (MCN)

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Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 855623-8796 (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) SAVE BIG on HOME INSURANCE! Compare 20 A-rated insurances companies. Let us do the shopping & save you time & money. Get a quote within minutes. Average savings of $444/ year! Call 855-697-1892. (M-F 8am-8pm Central). (MCN) Eliminate gutter cleaning forever!

LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-577-1268. Promo Code 285. (MCN) Meet singles right now! No paid operators, just real people like you.

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Southern MNNorthern IA *May 29, 2020 June 12, 2020 June 26, 2020 *July 10, 2020

*

Northern MN May 22, 2020 June 5, 2020 June 19, 2020 July 3, 2020 July 17, 2020

Deadline is 8 days prior to publication.

Indicates early deadline, 9 days prior to publication.

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!

Farm Equipment JD 4760 MFW tractor, P/S, 8600 hrs, 18.4x42 w/ duals, 3 hyds & Quick hitch, $37,900; JD 7300 12x30 3PT planter, insect, TW, 250 mon, nice, $4,900; Case IH RBX564 baler, same as NH BR7090, net & twine wrap, exc belts & new tires, $9,750; Krause 4600, 12x30 flat fold cult, $2,900; JD 1075 running gear, $1,150. 320-769-2756

Your ad could be here!

507-345-4523

ILAND ACRE REGISTERED HOLSTEIN AUCTION PIPESTONE, MN FRIDAY MAY 29TH, 2020 11:30 AM LOCATION: 4.5 MILES SW OF PIPESTONE, MN ON MN STATE 23, ¾ MILE WEST ON 61ST AVE AND ½ SOUTH ON 50TH AVE TO FARM

85 HEAD OF NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED OFFICIAL DHIA REGISTERED HOLSTEINS SELL UNDER COVER 3RD GENERATION FAMILY DAIRY WITH OUTSTANDING HOLSTEINS SINCE 1949.

RHA 2X 28, 329 M, 3.8% 1099 F, 3.1% 854 P. SEC 62,000. BAA 110.5 %, 85TH IN NATION. 10 EX, 12 VG, 24 CONSECUTIVE YEARS PROGRESSIVE BREEDERS REGISTRY. ALL BANGS VAC, HOOVES TRIMMED REGULARLY, TIE STALL HERD THAT IS HEAD LOCK TRAINED, AND ACCUSTOMED TO FREE STALLS & LOOSE HOUSING. CATALOG ONLINE AT www.midamericanauctioninc.com OR PHONE 320-7602979 TO HAVE YOURS MAILED. INC: 40 DEEP-PEDIGREED, WELL UDDERED COWS, SEVERAL RECENTLY FRESH WITH A GOOD NUMBER DUE NOW THROUGH EARLY FALL. 22 FANCY BRED AND SPRINGING HEIFERS 23 OPEN HEIFERS INC. SEVERAL GREAT SHOW PROSPECTS SIRES AND SERVICE SIRES INC. GOLD CHIP, GUTHRIE, FAVRE, DEFIANT, RAGER-RED, KING DOC, BRAXTON, DRAGON HEART, RENOWN, AFTERSHOCK, WARRIOR RED AND THE LIST GOES ON. BULK TANK AND UNITS: DARI-KOOL 1500 GAL BULK TANK, (5) AJC ANAYLIST FREEDOM DETACHERS WITH MILK WEIGHTS, SCC INDICATORS, FLOW GRAPH & MILK TEMP CONTROLLERS

ILAND ACRE HOLSTEINS 558 50TH AVE, PIPESTONE, MN 56164 STEVE & MARLA VILAND & FAMILY OWNERS PH 507-220-3669 MID-AMERICAN AUCTION CO. INC.

AL WESSEL LIC #77-60 PH. 320-760-2979, KEVIN WINTER 320-760-1593, ALAN GRAVES HUSA 712-574-6120 AUCTIONEERS

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020 Farm Equipment

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

Steffes Auction Calendar 2020

Tillage Equip

P/S,MF 4880 4WD tractor; JD 8110 FOR SALE: IH 1820 30 in. s, 3 MFD; 2 compartment Park- cultivator, plumbed to side00; er Gravity Box w/ brush au- dress liquid nitrogen, tunnel ter, ger; 80/50 KW PTO genera- shields, always shedded, ice, tor and others; 28” Fan and looks new. $5,000 Phone 564 Burner; 21’ and 18’ grain bins 507-360-5810 090, some w/air floors; 9’ and 10’ elts Ag Baggers; 20’ Grain Pup Planting Equip use trailer. Call 320-760-1634 ult, ear,Summers Herman culti har- ‘93 7200 MaxEmerge planter, row, hyd, 70’ w/ new teeth; White 8100 planter, 8R30” 12R30, precision corn mew/ liq fertilizer; White 5100 ters, soybean meters, liq planter no fertilizer; MM fert & insect, front fold, Pre14’ tandem disk w/ harrow; cision 2020 monitor, $15,000; White model 2-180 tractor w/ Marless no-till drill w/ coulter 20.8x38 tires. All in good con- cart, 15’, 10” spacing, $5,000.

Both always shedded. 612dition. 320-630-1777 741-7949 or 612-701-7901 Wanted: Horse related farm machinery: thrashing mach, Spraying Equip ground drive manure sprdrs, JD & McCormick hay mowers, corn or grain binders, (2) A-1 mist blower/sprayers MM corn shellers, any re- for orchards, livestock propairable mach. or we will re- ducers, (1) 50 gal tank w/ 3pt/ pair yours. 507-932-6848 AM hyd or PTO drive, $2,650; (1) blower/sprayer no tank/3pt/ We buy PTO drive, $2,250. Both used Salvage Equipment only 2 yrs, like new. 507-327Parts Available 6430 Hammell Equip., Inc. (507)867-4910

Land Specialists

For more info, call: 1-800-726-8609 or visit our website: SteffesGroup.com

Land For Sale

Shelby Township, Blue Earth County Section 4: 80.12 ± acres Section 5: 34.35 ± & 58.97 ± acres

Lyra Township, Blue Earth County Section 19: 116.77 ± acres

1-800-730-LAND (5263) www.Wingert Realty.com Charles Wingert, Broker # 07-53 1160 Victory Drive South Suite 6, Mankato MN 56001

Opening May 7 & Closing May 15 at 7PM RLP Services LLC Online Auction, Steffes Group Facility, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening May 8 & Closing May 18 Rush River Farms Equipment Auction, Hunter, ND, Timed Online Auction

Opening May 11 & Closing May 20 at 3PM Isanti County, Cambridge, MN, 6.5± Acre Wooded Lot Auction, Cambridge, MN, Timed Online

Opening May 12 & Closing May 19 Vercon Construction Auction, Menahga, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening May 15 & Closing May 20 Online Steffes Auction – 5/20, Upper Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction

Opening May 19 & Closing May 21 at 12PM Clay County, MN, Real Estate Auction - 3.34± Acres, Moorhead, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening, May 27 & Closing June 3 Paul & Rosemary Patrick Farm Retirement Auction, Wilton, ND, Timed Online Auction

Opening June 1 & Closing June 8 R&J Farms of Perley Partnership Estate & Farm Retirement Auction, Perley, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening June 4 & Closing June 10

Hay & Forage

Andringa Brothers Inc. Farm Retirement Auction, Crookston, MN

White 508 4-16s plow, MN 130 Equipment flair box, JD gear, hoist; Both shedded and very good FOR SALE: 2001 JD 4990 self cond; WANTED: JD 27 or propelled windrower, 14’ 990 115 stalk chopper, must be in head, 2901 hrs, hydro transvery good cond, reasonable. mission, flail conditioner, good cond, $36,900; Landoll 612-229-2566 20’ field finisher w/ bar drag, $6,500. 507-724-2377

Opening June 4 & Closing June 11

FOR SALE: John Deere 328 square baler with #40 ejecFor Sale: 1951 88 Oliver, full tor, always shedded. 320-248curtains, new paint & de- 1360 cals, new front tires & tubes, dual hyds rears 80%, asking Grain Handling $2,850. IH 1946 “M”, new rubEquipment ber, live hyds, P/S, $2,850.

MM ZTU, new clutch, ringgear rubber 90%, $1,850. All FOR SALE: (2) Superb continuous flow grain dryers, run good. 507-383-5973 Model SA500V, LP gas, NEW AND USED TRACTOR $4,500/EA or $8,000/pr. PicPARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, tures available. 507-208-0466 55, 50 Series & newer tractors, AC-all models, Large Livestock Inventory, We ship! Mark Equipment Heitman Tractor Salvage 715-673-4829 FOR SALE: Used Foremost squeeze chute w/ transport wheels; Used calving pen.

Tillage Equip 507-259-3544

Opening, June 5 & Closing June 15

Rust Sales Tillage Equipment Auction, Steffes Group Facility, West Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction

Opening June 4 & Closing June 11 Mark C. Muellenberg Estate Farm Equipment Auction, Rockham, SD

Opening June 5 & Closing June 10 Online Steffes Auction – 6/10, Upper Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction

Tractors

2015 Mandako 46 Ft Land RollWanted er (Heavy Duty Series) 3” Shafts (Not 2 7/16”) 42”x5/8 Wall Not 1/2”, Rental Unit All kinds of New & Used farm 5-6,000 Ac. A-One Cond. 2015 equipment - disc chisels, field Heavy Duty Rock Picker (5 cults, planters, soil finishers, Ft Wide Not 4 Ft) w/ Reel cornheads, feed mills, discs, 3 Way Elec/Hyd New Cond. balers, haybines, etc. 507Retiring. 319-347-6282 438-9782

PAGE 25

Eugene & Delores Undem Farm Retirement Auction, Rogers, ND, Timed Online Auction

Tuesday, June 9 at 10AM FARMLAND Fillmore County: Approx. 165 acres, Spring Valley Twp. PRICE REDUCED! Olmsted County: Approx. 132 acres Rock Dell Twp. Mower County: Approx. 121 acres SE edge of Austin Mower County: Approx. 156 acres, Grand Meadow Twp. PENDING! Olmsted County: Approx. 106 acres High Forest Twp. SOLD!

COMMERCIAL Racine: Completely remodeled 10,000 sq. ft. building on 2.12 acres. Many possible uses including event center, day care, offices, retail. MLS# 5247299 LeRoy: Affordable Office or business space. MLS# 5286067 Grand Meadow: Business Opportunity! 17 lot mobile home park. Great rental and occupancy history. Includes 14 well maintained mobile homes. MLS# 5540256 PENDING!

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

Kyle & Stacy Marschke Farm Retirement Auction, Alice, ND

Opening, June 9 & Closing June 18 at 7PM Tod & Renee Becker Farm Retirement Auction, Park Rapids, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening June 15 & Closing June 22 at 1PM K&D Krueger Farms Crop Plan Adjustment Auction, East Grand Forks, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening June 15 & Closing June 25 at 7PM Ed & Shari Nytes Farm Retirement Auction, New Prague, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening June 15 & Closing June 25 at 7PM Gary & Deborah Guse Farm Retirement Auction, Harris, MN, Timed Online Auction

Wednesday, June 17 at 11AM Larry & Monica Wieers Farm Retirement Auction, Argusville, ND

Thursday, June 18 at 10AM John McConnell Farm Retirement Auction, Casselton, ND

Friday, June 19 at 10AM Doug & Diane Moderow Farm Retirement Auction, Buffalo, ND

PAGE 26

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

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

Your First Choice for Classifieds!

r Place You ! y a Ad Tod

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

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

THE FREE PRESS South Central Minnesota’s Daily News Source

DEADLINE: Friday at 5:00 p.m. for the following Friday edition.

Plus! Look for your classified ad in the e-edition.

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WANTED: 1909-1940 Ford Cars & Parts, Old Tin, Porcelain & Neon Signs, Old Gas Pumps & Globes, Old Oil Cans & Bottles, Other Old Car Related Items. Please Call 507-665-6893

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

Cattle FOR SALE: Polled Limousin bulls, black or red, low birth weight, 40 yrs of raising Limousin, John Goelz, Franklin MN 507-215-0309 FOR SALE: 6 Hereford beef cattle w/ April born calves, $1,200/each. 763-658-4269

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

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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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oto (THE LAND only) $10.00 per run:

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

Name ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ State ____________________________ Zip ____________________________ Phone __________________________________________________________________________________# of times ______________________________________ Card # __________________________________________________________________________________ Exp. Date ______________________________________ Signature _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SORRY!

CHECK We do not issue refunds.

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.

POLLED HEREFORD registered yearling bulls for sale. All shots, Dectomax, semen tested. Halter broke. Delivery available.

Klages Herefords. Ortonville, MN. (320) 2732163(h) (605) 880-0521(c) Polled Hereford Bulls Yearlings and (1) two year old, semen tested. Also, Hereford and Black Baldy heifers. Jones Farms, Le Sueur MN 507-317-5996 Polled Hereford Bulls, Fertility tested, excellent calving ease. Buy now, will hold til needed. Also bred cows & heifers. 608-235-9417

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 Spot, Duroc, Chester White, Boars & Gilts available.

Monthly PRRS and PEDV. Delivery available. Steve Resler. 507-456-7746

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020 Sheep

Miscellaneous

ord400 ewe lambs from OPP testPor- ed negative flock. 605-997Gas 2060 or 605-864-8811 Oil Old Pets & Supplies ase

FOR SALE: Puppies, Border Collie Blue Heeler cross, born 1/10/2020, 3 males and 2 females, $200/each. 507-383ulls 6701 mp/ red Trucks &

klin

Miscellaneous eef ves, PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS New pumps & parts on hand.

Call Minnesota’s largest distributor HJ Olson & Company 320-974-8990 Cell - 320-212-5336

WANTED FREON R12. We pay CA$H. R12 R500 R11.

Convenient. Certified professionals. 312-291-9169 RefrigerantFinders.com/ad

ite, ble.

DV. eve

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.

Classified line ads work!

Call 507-345-4523

DAMAGED GRAIN STATEWIDE

ADVERTISER LISTING

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.

C & C Roofing ......................................................................11

CALL FOR A QUOTE TODAY

Freudenthal Dairy ................................................................ 19

PRUESS ELEV., INC.

Thank You Farmers!

COMBINES

’15 JD 690, 4x4, 1745/1160 sep hrs,

1-800-828-6642

CM, chopper, 650x38 tires & duals ................... $175,000 ’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 .... $37,000 ’11 Case/IH 8120, 1650/2250 Tracker, Rt, duals ....... $89,500 ’11 Case/IH 7120, 1610/2200 Tracker, Rt, duals ....... $89,500

TRACTOR LOADER BACKHOES

’11 Case 580N, 4x4 cab 2540 hrs ................................$42,000 ‘11 Case 580 SN, 4X4 cab,3322 hrs, extend-a-hoe ������������� $42,000 ‘16 Cat 420 F2, 4x4, 1088 hrs, cab extend-a-hoe ..... $69,000

ROW CROP TRACTORS

’17 Kubota M7-151, cab air, MFWD, 545 hrs, front axle suspension, 3pt PTO, w/ Kubota loader .................................................. $84,000 ‘09 JD 7830 MFWD, 6185 hrs, 3PT PTO, 4 hyd, 20 speed auto quad, 48050 tires & duals ........................................ $77,000

Anderson Seeds ...................................................................... 4 Beck's Hybrids ....................................................................... 1

Greenwald Farm Center ........................................................ 23 Grizzly Buildings Inc ............................................................. 5 Imogene Ingredients ............................................................. 20

SMALL EXCAVATORS

Karsten Nursery ................................................................... 14

’11 Bobcat E45EM, cab & air, 2965 hrs ..................... $30,000

Land Resource Management ................................................. 25

WHEEL LOADERS

Larson Brothers Implement .................................................. 27

’17 Case CX57C, cab & air, 333 hrs........................... $49,000

full auto steer, big pump .................................... $135,000 ’90 Ford 876, 8523 hrs duals .................................... $24,500 rtil- ’14 Case/IH 370 HD, 7065 hrs, 1000 PTO duals ....... $75,000 ing ’14 Case 350 Rowtrac, 1865 hrs, 120” 1000 PTO ... $147,000

mproc ent ide.

SS. 65

Winpower Sales & Service Reliable Power Solutions Since 1925 PTO & automatic Emergency Electric Generators. New & Used Rich Opsata-Distributor 800-343-9376

PAGE 27

WANTED

ear ’10 Case/IH 7120, 1650/2250 Tracker, Rt, duals ....... $89,500 HerTRACK & 4WD TRACTORS eifeur ‘10 Case IH 535 Quadtrack, 3977 hrs,

til s &

Miscellaneous

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

Trailers

FOR SALE: 2013 Great Dane Refer Trailer, 53’ x 102”, 14,600 hours on Carrier usin unit, under carriage air irth flow, nice shape. Must sell. im- $12,000 218-686-9589

lls toer le.

Or73c)

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

’18 JD 824K, 7980 hrs, cab air, ride control, 6.25 yd bkt ............................................................... $149,000 ’14 JD 724 K, 9587 hrs, third valve, w/ medford forks ... $82,000 ’13 JD 644 K, 5520 hrs, quick coupler, 4.25 yd bkt .... $115,000 ’15 Volvo 90G, 4927 hrs, quick coupler & bkt ................ $89,000 ’12 Volvo L50F, 5733 hrs, cab air, quick coupler & bkt .. $65,000 ‘15 Cat 930 M, 6599 hrs, ride control, w/ quick coupler & bucket ........................................ $85,000 ’09 Cat 938H, 7174 hrs, quick coupler & bkt ................. $69,000 ’16 Komatsu WA 270-7, 8193 hrs, Q.C., 4 yd bkt........... $72,000 ’16 Komatsu WA 320-7, 6936 hrs, Q.C., 3.5 yd bkt........ $83,000 ’13 Komatsu WA320-7, 7267 hrs, cab air, quick coupler & bkt ................................................... $78,000 ‘12 Komatsu 380-7, 8850 hrs, 4.25 yd bkt ..................... $69,900 ’14 Kawasaki 70Z7, 7628 hrs, cab air, quick coupler & bkt ................................................... $69,000 ’10 Kawasaki 65Z V, 6682 hrs, cab air, ride control, w/ bkt ......................................................................... $51,000 ‘13 Case 721 F, 4717 hrs, ride control, quick coupler w/bucket ............................................. $75,000

Southwest MN K-Fence ........................................................ 21

EXCAVATORS

Spanier Welding ................................................................... 13

’15 Cat 323 FL, 3768 hrs, 40" bkt............................ $119,000

Steffes Group ....................................................................... 25

’14 Komatsu PC 138US-10, hyd thumb, 36" bkt ........ $80,000 ’11 JD 290GLC, 3347 hrs, 12'6" stick,42" bkt .......... $110,000 ’11 Case CX300C, 2658 hrs, 12' stick, 54" bucket .. $110,000

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

Mid American Auction ......................................................... 24 Northland Buildings ............................................................... 8 Pioneer ................................................................................ 12 Pruess Elevator Inc .............................................................. 27 Rush River Steel & Trim ........................................................ 3 Schweiss Doors .................................................................... 25 Smiths Mill Implement Inc ................................................... 23 Southwest MN Farm Business ................................................ 7

Walker Custom Siding ............................................................ 9 Wingert Realty & Land Services ........................................... 25

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

PAGE 28

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

THE LAND — MAY 15/MAY 22, 2020

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

An artful stroll

O

n most any day, weather permitting, a walk on Long Prairie’s mile-long paved Tiger Lily Trail will bring you in contact with art, community gardens, wooded neighborhood streets, wetland and prairie scenery and wildlife. On the fine spring morning we hiked the trail, we started on the south end at Lake Charlotte Beach.

Even at 9:30 a.m. the pretty round lake was smooth and blue. A member of the resident loon pair floated quietly just off shore and an osprey dived from high in the sky for fish.

Last summer, our friends Raphaela and Josefina Orozco — along with Maria Cisneros — worked with Mexican artist Abram Burciage to install a mural on the north wall of the old bath house.

Abram said the mural represented different elements of our community as well as a challenge to our community’s multicultural youngsters to take responsibility for creating their future together.

In 2017, artist Claire Witt — along with 300 community members — installed a large mosaic on the east side of the same building. The mosaic, called “The Sunflower Over Our Town,” is the ninth of Claire’s Blue Sky Project which she installed around the state in response to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The mosaic is made up of thousands of pieces of cut tile and mirror which were put in place by the volunteers. With

Long Prairie, Minn.

the tiles they created messages of hope like, “One Town” and “Integrated.” The mirrors allow us to see ourselves reflected amongst these hopeful messages.

Going north from Lake Charlotte has the walker passing a meadow which, in summer, is full of flowering milk weed and fluttering monarch butterflies.

Further along, the trail rises up from the meadow and passes through a wooded residential area and onto a street. Walkers stay on the street until they come to the community gardens. By summer, many of the plots will be full of sweet corn, sunflowers, tomatoes and tomatillos.

Past the gardens is Harmony Park which, on a sunny spring morning, has a few dedicated power walkers respectfully social distancing and a lively daycare group.

Harmony Park is graced by more of Claire Witt’s community-constructed mosaics. These are in the form of sculpted (and comfortable) concrete benches embedded with colorful mosaics in whimsical patterns. The benches, besides being adorned with mosaics, are flower beds. Although there were no flowers yet in late April, the beds will

burst with color by mid-summer.

The trail ends in a parking lot on State Highway 287 near the elementary school. v

SOLAR ENERGY FOR

FARMS AND BUSINESSES

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER.

Solar energy is more than clean energy, it’s financial stability, predictability, and independence.

We know the challenges of planning for the future, and we’re here to help you take control of what you can. Blue Horizon Energy works with the best suppliers and partners in the solar industry so you can rest easy knowing that you can trust your solar system to support your family, farm, and business for decades to come.

WE LET OUR CUSTOMERS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES. WANT TO HEAR WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS HAVE TO SAY? JUST ASK!

©2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC

CONTACT US AT: 507.424.0001 INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM

ELIMINATE YOUR ENERGY BILLS AND PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR ELECTRICITY EXPENSES AND GIVE YOUR FARM A NEW ELEMENT OF FINANCIAL PREDICTABILITY WITH YOUR OWN SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM Our average agri-business customer will save over $200,000 from their solar energy system, after recouping the cost of purchasing and installing the system. What could your operation do with those savings?

507.424.0001

INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM

©2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC

PREPARE FOR TOMORROW, TODAY. YOU’VE BUILT A FARM TO LAST GENERATIONS. SOLAR POWER CAN HELP PROTECT YOUR LEGACY.

In up-markets and down-markets, solar energy savings make a predictable positive impact to the bottom line of any business. The secret? Solar allows you to provide for your own energy needs instead of continuously renting power from your Utility at ever-increasing electricity rates.

Whether you’re replacing 100% of your electric bill with solar or just 20%, every dollar saved makes a significant long-term difference in your future.

PROVEN. RELIABLE. PREDICTABLE. Blue Horizon Energy has delivered hundreds of turn-key solar projects across the Midwest and our results are proven by all of these happy customers. Our projects are backed by industry-leading warranties, up to 25 years on key components, to create long-term reliable performance and savings. Our top-shelf technologies yield more power and more savings, delivering up to 40% more energy and a stronger, more predictable return on investment.

FIXED RACK, DUAL-AXIS TRACKER, OR ROOF MOUNT

CONTACT US TODAY!

IF YOU’VE GOT A SMALL PLOT, OPEN FIELDS, OR UNUSED ROOF SPACE, WE HAVE A SOLAR SOLUTION FOR YOU. WE DESIGN EVERY PROJECT TO DELIVER RELIABLE LONG-TERM SAVINGS, THE LOWEST TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP, AND THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE YIELD. YOUR FARM’S SUCCESS IS OUR TOP PRIORITY.

RECEIVE A FREE CONSULTATION TO DETERMINE HOW SOLAR ENERGY CAN BEST WORK FOR YOUR SPECIFIC SITE, CIRCUMSTANCES, AND NEEDS.

©2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC

©2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC

507.424.0001 INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM WWW.BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM

PREPARE FOR TOMORROW, TODAY. YOU’VE BUILT A FARM TO LAST GENERATIONS. SOLAR POWER CAN HELP PROTECT YOUR LEGACY.

In up-markets and down-markets, solar energy savings make a predictable positive impact to the bottom line of any business. The secret? Solar allows you to provide for your own energy needs instead of continuously renting power from your Utility at ever-increasing electricity rates.

Whether you’re replacing 100% of your electric bill with solar or just 20%, every dollar saved makes a significant long-term difference in your future.

PROVEN. RELIABLE. PREDICTABLE. Blue Horizon Energy has delivered hundreds of turn-key solar projects across the Midwest and our results are proven by all of these happy customers. Our projects are backed by industry-leading warranties, up to 25 years on key components, to create long-term reliable performance and savings. Our top-shelf technologies yield more power and more savings, delivering up to 40% more energy and a stronger, more predictable return on investment.

FIXED RACK, DUAL-AXIS TRACKER, OR ROOF MOUNT

CONTACT US TODAY!

IF YOU’VE GOT A SMALL PLOT, OPEN FIELDS, OR UNUSED ROOF SPACE, WE HAVE A SOLAR SOLUTION FOR YOU. WE DESIGN EVERY PROJECT TO DELIVER RELIABLE LONG-TERM SAVINGS, THE LOWEST TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP, AND THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE YIELD. YOUR FARM’S SUCCESS IS OUR TOP PRIORITY.

RECEIVE A FREE CONSULTATION TO DETERMINE HOW SOLAR ENERGY CAN BEST WORK FOR YOUR SPECIFIC SITE, CIRCUMSTANCES, AND NEEDS.

©2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC

©2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC

507.424.0001 INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM WWW.BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM

SOLAR ENERGY FOR

FARMS AND BUSINESSES

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER.

Solar energy is more than clean energy, it’s financial stability, predictability, and independence.

We know the challenges of planning for the future, and we’re here to help you take control of what you can. Blue Horizon Energy works with the best suppliers and partners in the solar industry so you can rest easy knowing that you can trust your solar system to support your family, farm, and business for decades to come.

WE LET OUR CUSTOMERS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES. WANT TO HEAR WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS HAVE TO SAY? JUST ASK!

©2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC

CONTACT US AT: 507.424.0001 INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM

ELIMINATE YOUR ENERGY BILLS AND PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR ELECTRICITY EXPENSES AND GIVE YOUR FARM A NEW ELEMENT OF FINANCIAL PREDICTABILITY WITH YOUR OWN SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM Our average agri-business customer will save over $200,000 from their solar energy system, after recouping the cost of purchasing and installing the system. What could your operation do with those savings?

507.424.0001

INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM

©2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC