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Dairy’s ups and downs Heading into Dairy Month, producers are finding themselves in the dumps INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
The tradition of maple syruping • What CFAP might mean for you “Big Bud” has junior counterpart in Minnesota
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THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
Charlie, Madden and Big Bud P.O. Box 3169 418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56002 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XXXIX ❖ No. 11 24 pages, 1 section plus supplements
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COLUMNS Opinion Life on the Farm: Readers’ Photos Farm and Food File The Bookworm Sez Table Talk From My Farmhouse Kitchen Farm Programs From The Fields Swine & U Mielke Market Weekly Marketing Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads
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Back in 1976, Trojan Seed Company Star tractors for the other four grandhosted its first Cornland USA event. The sons,” related Charlie. “But Madden said, three-day September show was open to ‘I don’t want a Jet-Star; I want a Big the public and free. Entertainment galore Bud!’ I thought about it for a year and including stage shows by Rex Allen Jr., finally said, ‘I think I can do it.’” Nelson Waikiki from Hawaii; 22 acres of Even with help, Big Bud was a twoexhibits; the Cornland 5000 Biggest year project. Charlie recalled, “When Tractor Pull in the Western Corn Belt; word got out about my project quite a plus women’s activities each day in the few ‘I can help’ comments started floathuge Trojan warehouse — even an ag LAND MINDS ing around town. First was David Nelson aviation day with sky diving, aerobatic at Loftness Manufacturing here in town. By Dick Hagen and stunt flying. Each day featured a He stopped by and said, ‘I can do some free drawing for a Hawaiian trip for frame welding pieces.’ My son-in-law two. did some drawings on these special Estimated attendance to pieces; then Dave Nelson Cornland USA was 30,000. took his drawings and did Spectators couldn’t believe the work needed. Pat it. And a huge surprise to Schmoll at Schmoll’s every farmer: Big Bud, the Welding helped us out. new 650-horsepower tractor Dennis Mosic and his guys manufactured in Havre, helped with some special Mont. Yes, Big Bud was the painting; Cole Carlsom did biggest tractor to ever show the special stickers. We’re its mighty muscles at a just a pretty good communifarm show. And proud to ty. Folks pitch in as they provide this firstt Minnesota can. We powered it with a showing of Big Bud was 25-horsepower, 3-cylinder Renville County agriculturdiesel Yamar engine.” ist Harlan Johnson who Charlie hasn’t put Big Bud thrived on notoriety in his on a scale, but something farming career. over a ton was Charlie’s estimate. That was 44 years ago. Photos by Dick Hagen Hector-area farmer Charlie Have any of the Big Bud Charlie Melberg Melberg was 21 and just guys from Montana been getting into this exciting here? “Not yet; but they game called farming. But already he was into tracknow about it,” said Charlie. tor pulling events so this western corn belt’s biggest “I talked with the engineer that helped build Big tractor pull at Cornland was on his agenda. Bud; and I talked with one of the owners, Ron But he knew nothing about Big Bud until viewing Hardam, about how they created their first Big this mastodon at Cornland. Bud. Basically they just wanted something bigger and better for modern agriculture. I never did ask The impact of Big Bud never left Charlie’s mind. how many Big Buds were built; that might be accesNope, he never owned one. However, three John sible on the Internet.” Deere 8620s (620 hp) were sitting in his farm yard when I pulled in for a May 5 visit. I was there to Big Bud definitely had a different look: painted view a scale model Big Bud 525/50 — an exact repwhite with some red touch ups makes this a classy lica of the Big Bud Charlie had first viewed at looking farm tractor. “I found some reading that Cornland USA in 1976. said the first two series were all white,” said Charlie. “Then the third series was touched up with Yes, Charlie, now 65, built this Big Bud from scratch. Imaginative minds, gifted hands, good tools, some red. I even talked with the guy who designed the stickers for Big Bud and still makes them today. welders, metal cutters, scads of creative patience, But he couldn’t make mine because his wife was family help and a few key outsiders produced this sick. He gave me some more ideas anyway.” incredible tractor. Charlie intends to put his Big Bud into a few summer parades — including On that fine May 5 day I squeezed into the cab of Olivia’s Corn Capital Days event July 25 (if CovidCharlie’s Big Bud and enjoyed driving this incredi19 has disappeared). The Renville County Fair is ble gem for a few minutes in the Melberg farmyard. also on Charlie’s itinerary if Covid-19 is history. Has Charlie’s grandson yet driven his very own So how did this happen? Charlie credit’s Madden, Big Bud? “Not yet,” Charlie stated. “He’s still got his 11-year-old grandson. Two years back, Madden school work and lots of farm activity too. He’s our asked Grandpa to make him a tractor. “We had lawn mowing kid. We just finished getting all our already made four small Minneapolis Molene JetSee LAND MINDS, pg. 5
OPINION
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
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Life on the Farm: Readers’ Photos
Regular contributor Rose Wurtzberger recently sent in this photo of the line fence on her farm in Brown County, Minn.
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Pete Bouman of Ruthton, Minn. brought a little levity to The Land with photos of these newborn calves. Their names? Charmin and Cottenelle. May you never run out.
E-mail your Life on the Farm photos to editor@thelandonline.com We love to see them!
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Letter: Try to take advantage of opportunities To the Editor, I usually read Alan Guebert’s “Farm & Food File” with mild amusement. To say his opinion is typically 180 degrees with my views wuld probably be accurate. To be fair, Alan at least gets people thinking. After reading Alan’s March 20 column, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. His article focused on the current crash in crude oil prices (and it certainly has been shocking). Alan asked readers to consider what would happen to rural America’s economy if cash soybeans fell from $9 per bushel to $4.50 or if corn prices dropped from an already-low $3.60 per bushel to $1.80. Excuse me, Alan, but most of us active farmers have been living the nightmare of slashing our prices by half for quite some time. It’s not that long ago that $7.20 corn was a reality, only to be cut in half to the $3.60 you quoted. It’s even been some time since your $9 soybeans have been around,
but $15 soybeans of not that long ago are now roughly half that lofty price. I don’t have to imagine what would happen to our finances if our prices were cut in half, I’m already living it! I would agree that taking another 50 percent cut would be chaotic, but so would $15 per barrel for crude oil. I don’t pretend to have many answers. I will say this: I’ve been around long enough to know that high prices cure high prices, and low prices cure low prices. Basically, the free market works. Almost everything operates in cycles. I might suggest, rather than running around in fear of the current situation, try to take advantage of opportunities while they exist. The sun will eventually shine. And someday, after a very long, painful string of supporting Democrats, Minnesota will vote for a Republican President of the United States. Paul Platz Lafayette, Minn.
OPINION
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Meatpacking industry continues to show political clout If you’ve ever butchered anything — All the money, monitoring and motivafrom a rabbit to a hog (and butchered is tion, however, will never overcome the the right word, not the bleached “harweakest link in today’s meatpacking vested”) — you know there will be blood. chain: its success rises and falls on a Butchering, after all, is a bloody business. river of quickly trainable, overwhelmingly immigrant labor who are low-wage While 95 percent of Americans are carcogs in an international protein machine nivores, it’s a safe bet that nearly 99.9 oiled mostly with blood. percent of them haven’t thought much about where their meat comes from or And little of this is by accident. Since the FARM & FOOD FILE how it gets to them so … well, clean. early 1980s, meatpackers have used two powerful tools: industrial innovation and By Alan Guebert Covid-19 changed that willful blindness the lack of government oversight (and, and put America’s industrialized and more often than not, government comexploitive meat delivery system on the plicity) to regain the dominating market front page of every newspaper because power they enjoyed a century ago. it wasn’t just killing hogs, cattle and poultry. It was — is — also killing the people doing most of the In fact, “Exactly 100 years ago,” noted Politico on butchering. May 25 “… the five biggest U.S. meatpackers… were responsible for 82 percent of the beef market.” After As of May 26, according to in-depth reporting by Leah Douglas of the Food & Environment Reporting years of litigation — and decades of new “competition” because of government intervention — “the top Network (FERN), 73 U.S. “food processing” workers four firms controlled only 36 percent of cattle have died since the beginning of the coronavirus slaughter… by 1980.” outbreak in America. Sixty-seven of them, or nine out of 10, were meatpacker employees. Then came the near-complete abandonment of corporate ag antitrust action by the Reagan, Bush I, In the broader picture, reports Douglas, of the Clinton, Bush II, Obama and Trump administra19,785 food processing workers who tested positive tions. When it comes to antitrust, White Houses for the virus, 17,893 of them (again, nine out of 10) worked in animal disassembly — or meatpacking — aren’t white, red, or blue; they’re green — as in green lights. factories. No surprise then that now the top four beef packMeat industry titans know they have a terrible ers again “… control about 85 percent of the U.S. problem. Most are now spending mega-millions on (beef) market,” noted Politico. The market concenworker facemasks and shields, workplace dividers, personal health monitoring, and other long-overdue tration is similar for poultry and pork slaughterers. measures to protect the health and safety of its Equally impressive is the industry’s political shoulder-to-shoulder workforce. power. For almost 30 years, the federal government
OPINION
has conceded to meatpackers’ calls for cheaper, inhouse inspection regimes, the speeding up of kill lines to increase throughput, and cuts in the number of federal meat inspectors. That power was on full display when the White House empowered Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, through the Defense Production Act, to get at-risk meatpacker workers back on the job — pandemic or not — a month ago. Today, U.S. meat plants are running at 91 percent capacity. And for what? Definitely not for the benefit of independent hog farmers, cattle ranchers or feedlot finishers. In May, livestock industry groups forecast pandemic-fueled, 2020 hog losses at $5 billion and cattle losses at $13.5 billion. And that’s only if a second round of Covid-19 (a likely possibility, warn experts) doesn’t slam livestock growers this winter. Whatever happens in the market, Congress needs to reexamine meatpacker concentration after allocating some of the $3 trillion of government Covid cash to build express lanes for smaller, local, independent meatpackers to form and grow. Congress did it for ethanol and corn farmers and it can do it for livestock and poultry farmers. Call it what it is: job creation, rural development, smart use of taxpayer money. Let’s just stop calling it harvesting; because, in fact, it’s a very bloody business. Past Farm and Food File columns and contact information are at www.farmandfoodfile.com. v
Stories of troubled horse riders is a captivating read The last time you went riding, the old. She felt like a «genderless thing,» she weather was perfect. was angry, scared, hurt, mistrustful, had little self-control, and she sometimes Did you notice that? Or were you lashed out. Then she got a horse. thinking about something, some niggling issue, a thorny problem that needed to And now she›d volunteered to work on be solved from the back of a sadthis «alternative» ranch with horses which dle? They say that the outside of a horse had gone feral because nobody knew how is good for the inside of a man. In “Half to handle or train them. She knew exactly Broke” by Ginger Gaffney, the same goes how those animals felt because she›d been THE BOOKWORM for the inside of a woman. like them once. So had the ranchers SEZ Gaffney was asked to teach: former She knew she wasn›t going to get paid By Terri Schlichenmeyer addicts, lawbreakers, alcoholics who›d been for the job. tossed aside, who›d applied for an That was fine. Ginger Gaffney had a opportunity to work with horses, and who were calendar full of work that paid the bills for the constantly monitored and mentored to give them the small homestead she and her partner shared. No, best chance to avoid being imprisoned again. a gig working with a New Mexico ranch that Every horse has a story to tell. Every rancher had served somewhat as a transitional option for one, too; but the rules were strict about when they inmates was Gaffney›s way of giving back. Gratis could share them. So Gaffney really knew very little work was gratitude for a good life. about the people she taught: Eliza, who›d been nearIt wasn›t always good, though. ly mute; Flor, an admitted liar; Randy, who dieted to To say that Gaffney was quiet as a child is putting ride; Tony, who had anger issues; Sarah, the biggest enigma of all; and Marco, who leaves this book with it mildly. She didn›t speak until she was six years
a surprise ending. The first time you were on a horse happened so long ago it›s like having a finger or a nose: it never wasn’t. You probably don’t even remember it, but you won’t forget “Half Broke.” Swinging timelines like a lariat, author Ginger Gaffney tells her own barnboard-rough story. But her story absolutely takes a back seat to tales of horses she›s known and people she knew at the prison ranch near Santa Fe. Her tales are told with deliberateness, and quietly — even the ones that pulse with anger or gnashing teeth. The graciousness and generosity here comes out loud and clear, leaving readers with a sad smile, a good chuckle, a gasp, and the thought that books like this just don›t last long enough. Yes, the skies can be cloudy all day in this memoir, but it›s a wonderful one which horse lovers, armchair cowpokes and reform workers shouldn›t even try to resist. If that’s you, you should know that “Half Broke” is a heckuva ride. v
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Cows and coronavirus: June is still Dairy Month By Lee Mielke I have written June Dairy Month columns for over 30 years and always celebrated its background and meaning. It apparently started in 1937 when a grocery organization began to promote milk and dairy products at a time of year when milk was available in abundance. I regularly pointed out how easy it is to assume we will always have the milk, cheese, butter and ice cream we all love — and never be concerned about shortages. Then came 2020 and something called Covid-19, something that has changed America, the world, and everyone in it, forever. Is the unthinkable now possible? We’ve witnessed shortages of toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and other items; and the latest is meat. But could it
happen to dairy? What a difference a pandemic can make. Plummeting milk prices will sadly mean the end of some our dairy farms; but I believe the dairy industry will survive because, just as dairy farmers have been there for the consumers who know the value dairy products, those consumers will be there for dairy farmers as well. Last year I wrote June was dairy month, not “fake milk month.” I talked about consumers who think that a beverage which comes from a plant is healthier than one which comes from a cow — even though they’re still called traditional dairy names. I repeat my challenge this year to read the package label and know what is in these products to make them at least taste good. But also ask if they even approach the wholesome nutri-
OPINION
tional package that dairy offers; and do they have a carbon footprint which has actually shrunk like dairy’s has. Dairy still is facing challenges in a crowded beverage marketplace. Percapita fluid milk consumption in the United States is down by a quarter in the past 20 years, according to the National Milk Producers Federation, and the number of U.S. dairy farms dropped 6.8 percent in 2018. But the NMPF says, “a more accurate picture of the health of the dairy industry is much brighter than the doom and gloom conjured from selective use of data. No matter what critics may say, attempts to craft a ‘death of dairy’ narrative are mistaken.” “ Looking more broadly than milk in a glass, per-capita dairy consumption has been on the rise since the 1970s, according to USDA data. Last year’s level, 646 pounds per person, was the
most popular year for dairy in the United States since 1962.” “Cheese per-capita consumption has tripled since 1971,” says NMPF, and “butter is at its highest per-capita use since 1968. Contrast that with nosediving sales of margarine — the longest-established ‘plant-based’ dairy alternative — which in 2010 was at its lowest per-capita consumption since 1942. After that, the federal government stopped tracking it altogether.” Fluid milk consumption may be down, but certainly not out; nor is the dairy industry. Mark Twain said it best when reacting to an erroneous news story, “The report of my death was an exaggeration.” Dairy is very much alive and on the rise. U.S. dairy farmers have supported us. We will support them. Give your family a dairy special treat this June Dairy Month. v
Melberg has visited farms all around the world LAND MINDS, from pg. 2 crops planted. Perhaps the best spring in recent memory that job done.” Two 48-row JD planters each powered by a JD 8425 speeds that planting effort. Charlie’s somewhat of an inquisitive guy. That’s almost a natural trait when you’re in farming and curious about the next chapter in your farming career. He’s done a bit of world traveling — throughout much of Europe, the Ukraine, Russia a couple of times, into Africa and twice down to Brazil. And always asking questions about farming — especially sugar beet production. Yes, sugar beets got on the Melberg farming agenda years ago when the big sugar beet plant at Renville got into production. I asked Charlie how long he’s been farming. His immediate response, “All my life. It’s just great work. New technology, new crop seeds, new pesticides, new farm equipment keeps stirring up interest and excitement. Yep, we’ve got
some tough months ahead for both crop and livestock production. Some of these ‘band aid’ programs help a bit; but what we really need are better prices … we need to get supply and demand working again. “I’m still sold on agriculture. We are living in a beautiful state growing corn, soybeans and sugar beets. I’ve been around the world a few times and with each journey I appreciate our home farm even more.” He’s entertained Russian, Ukrainian and German famers on his farm too. He’s hired South American immigrants to assist at Melberg Farms. Yes, curiosity often compels Charlie Melberg on his overseas visits. “My good friend Gary Toreen once asked, ‘where next?’ I told him I’ve read about all the technology showing up on farms in the Ukraine. We wanted to see where all the John Deere tractors and other technology was doing in
these countries. The guy in the Ukraine took us around his country for two weeks. He’s now been to America and visited my farm also. That’s the good nature of farmers and farming around the world. We don’t mind seeing … and learning.”
Charlie and his wife Barb raised two sons, Brad, 45, Mark, 41, and daughter, Tracy, 37. They have six grandchildren (five boys and a girl). Dick Hagen is the staff writer emeritus of The Land. He may be reached at rdhagen35@gmail.com. v
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Words of wisdom: Secrets of the Toilet Paper Roll Covid-19 brought with it a host of pecuMy mother always had a long list to liar human behaviors that may have take with her to the grocery store — actually served best to remind us of why storm or not. And with a family of nine, Marlin Perkins chose to host a television toilet paper was usually on that list (and show about the animal kingdom. lots of it). After all, she had to have it cocked and loaded if she was going to be Compared with human behaviors when the one responsible for going to town to they feel threatened, I’m pretty sure he get more if we ran out — which was not thought it would be easier to explain anigoing to happen, living 10 miles from mal behaviors since he only had 30 minanywhere. TABLE TALK utes to work with. Mom would always write “bathroom tisBy Karen Schwaller When the squirrels know the winter sue” on her list of things to buy, in case will be harsh, they store up more nuts she lost her list and someone else found than can be found on any courtroom T.V. it. She would say, “… it would be nicer if they saw show. ‘bathroom tissue’ on the list instead of ‘toilet paper.’ “ When a tsunami is going to hit, the elephants will My mother must have learned to be proper from gather their young and head for higher ground. the British. When a chameleon feels threatened, all it does is And for as much fun as we like to make of people change color to match its environment. coming out of stores with more toilet paper than But human beings have a whole different way to common sense, there are actually principles that panic. When threatened by the warning of a sixthose coveted white rolls of hope can teach us about inch snowfall, it’s a rush to the grocery store to get life. Here’s my take on it: all the essentials: six loaves of bread, five gallons of • You don’t have to be famous to be noticed. milk, ten dozen eggs and a bag of coping candy to be creatively hidden from the children. • Some cleaning essentials are taken for granted until you can’t get them anymore. Covid panicking, however, created a whole new branch on the oak-and-acorn tree — in the hoard• Some days are over the top, and some days it’s ing of toilet paper. hard to roll out from underneath the covers. Choose how your day will be and keep going.
• Some days you’re in it deeper than others, as most livestock producers will concur. • It’s all about being flexible. No matter where you find yourself, show up for the job. • Value is in the eye of the beholder. The closer a person is to the end of the roll, the more each square retains its value. • The thicker (skinned) you are, the more you can take. • If each square remains connected to the other and works together, they create something larger than themselves. • Some days our lives are neatly folded; other days seem all crumpled up. Regardless, we still have a job to do, and we just need to do it. • Hanging out somewhere new every now and then — such as in a tree — gives us a new perspective on life and can give us new adventure and purpose. • The more people who want something from you, the more you spread yourself thin. • Moderation is the key to staying power. Don’t take more of things than you need, lest your toilet paper roll — and your bank account — grow thin. Karen Schwaller brings “Table Talk” to The Land from her home near Milford, Iowa. She can be reached at kschwaller@evertek.net. v
‘In the garden’ is the place to be for me In 1942 the United States government appealed to Americans to grow gardens. Their slogan, “Sow the seeds of victory” was meant to encourage self-sufficiency and to have healthy, nutritional food readily available. These gardens became known as Victory Gardens, and were promoted by towns and businesses as vital to the war effort. Gardening experts from every state gave their
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advice to the leaders of this program which caught on almost as fast as wildflowers can spread. Speakers visited towns to give pertinent instruction on growing fruits and vegetables; along with canning classes. All they would have had to FROM MY do was ask my grandparents FARMHOUSE for practical wisdom in knowKITCHEN ing what works, and how to By Renae B. garden without spending Vander Schaaf great funds. Because my grandparents had depended on their gardens for years to feed themselves as their parents had taught them the sagaciousness of taking care of their basic needs themselves. Today we have now actually experienced bare grocery shelves, limits on the amount of food we can purchase, and closed schools. Each reminds us our children need food and possess boundless energy which needs to be put to good use. Gardening seems like a good idea. Since many of you (like me) have taken to cutting our own bangs, we will not allow ourselves to be seen in public. (It is for good reasons my mother hid
the scissors from me when, as a young child, I cut my younger brother and sister’s hair. Looking at some of the hair styles considered vogue, I may have done a better job than she was letting me believe.) It’s only natural to hide in the garden. A scarecrow may not even be needed. Garden seed catalogs are doing a banner business this year. In fact some have even refunded money because they do not have the seed the customer has ordered. Minnesota seed potato growers are actually See KITCHEN, pg. 7
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Gardening is the thing to do KITCHEN, from pg. 6 one of the bright spots in the ag economy. It’s about time we realize how important every segment of agriculture is. How-to-garden YouTubes are popular right now as we want to learn the best way to grow everyday foods like corn and beans; along with exotic ones such as endive and cow peas. If those are the only vegetable seeds remaining on the shelf, we realize that any vegetable is better than starving. Those fortunate to have gardening experience are now the most sought after persons during coffee breaks at the office. At the appropriate six-foot distance, people are discussing what they have planted in their gardens. No one is laughing or listening through sheer politeness. Gardening is the thing to do. As far as I am concerned, it is one of the positives which can come out of this whole pandemic thing. My farmer and I have always enjoyed gardening, so it’s life as usual this spring. It’s gratifying to know that others are also going to share this pleaure. There is more to gardening than just growing food for eating. I find myself refreshed as my hands get dirty digging in the dirt; my mind relaxes as I
hear the multiple species of birds of tweeting out their particular songs; and sunshine on my shoulder really does feel good. One of my Oma’s favorite hymns is also one of mine. Perhaps you will find yourself singing it too as fill your buckets with the produce of your garden. “I come to the garden alone, While the dew is still on the roses, And the voice I hear falling on my ear The Son of God discloses. And He walks with me, and He talks with me, And He tells me I am His own; And the joy we share as we tarry there, None other has ever known. He speaks, and the sound of His voice Is so sweet the birds hush their singing, And the melody that He gave to me Within my heart is ringing.” – “In The Garden,” by Charles A. Miles Renae B. Vander Schaaf is an independent writer, author and speaker. Contact her at (605) 530-0017 or agripen@live.com. v
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Pesticide collection events postponed until 2021 The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is postponing a series of free waste pesticide collections available to 11 northwestern Minnesota counties due to concerns of Covid-19 on collection participants and facilities. There will not be scheduled collection events in 2020 in Crookston, Hallock, Thief River Falls, Ulen, or Warren. These agricultural or business waste pesticide collections served the following counties: Beltrami, Cass, Clay, Clearwater, Lake of the Woods, Kittson, Marshall, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake and Roseau. The events will be moved to July 2021. Those who planned to get rid of pesti-
cides at a 2020 event should store the chemicals in their original containers with labels. The containers should be kept in a dry, secured area free of tampering. Leaky containers should be placed in a secondary container so the contents are not released into the environment. Contact the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Jane Boerboom at (651) 201-6540 or jane.boerboom@state. mn.us with questions or if you have 300 or more pounds of pesticides ready for disposal. This article was submitted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.v
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Important – Please check all boxes that best match your farming operation. Acres Corn Soybeans Alfalfa Wheat Sugar Beets TOTAL ACRES
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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
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PAGE 8
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
USDA is taking Coronavirus Food Assistance applications The U.S. Department of plete the application onAgriculture recently line. The CFAP application announced details for tool and forms will be availenrollment in the able at www.farmers.gov/ Caronavirus Food CFAP Assistance Program (CFAP). Other CFAP requireUp to $16 billion in direct ments — For producers payments to farmers and who normally enroll in ranchers has been authofarm programs or utilize FARM PROGRAMS rized to partially help offset other FSA services, the the financial impacts U.S. By Kent Thiesse FSA offices likely already farmers and ranchers have have most of the backincurred as a result of ground information the Covid-19 pandemic. needed to apply for The aid package also CFAP payments. For included $3 billion for producers new to utilizing FSA proUSDA to purchase fresh produce and grams and services, they will need to meat to be delivered to those in need supply the FSA office with name, through food banks and other charita- address and personal information, as ble organizations, which is already well as business structure, adjusted occurring. The payment structure and gross income verification, direct deposformulas for CFAP crop and livestock it information and conservation compayments are somewhat complex. pliance.
MARKETING
Following is a brief overview of signup details and payment calculations for the CFAP payments:
CFAP enrollment — Sign-up for the CFAP program is May 26 through Aug. 28 at local Farm Service Agency offices. Currently, FSA offices are open for business by phone appointment only. Once FSA has verified CFAP eligibility, producers will be able to com-
Covered commodities Field Crops — Corn, soybeans, spring wheat, drum wheat, sorghum, oats, malting barley, canola, upland cotton, millet and sunflowers. Livestock — Cattle, hogs, sheep, wool, and dairy. Specialty Crops — Numerous fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other specialty
CFAP Crop Payment Examples
crops. For a complete list, go to www. farmers.gov/CFAP Commodities not covered Winter wheat, rice, rye, flax, feed barley, peanuts, alfalfa, forage crops, ESL cotton, eggs, poultry, hemp and tobacco. Note: Commodities were deemed eligible for CFAP based on a 5 percent or more price decline from
Field crop payment rates Corn — CARES rate = $.32 per bushel; CCC rate = $.35 per bushel; Total = $.67 per bushel. Soybeans — CARES rate = $.45 per bushel; CCC rate = $.50 per bushel; Total = $.95 per bushel. Spring Wheat — CARES rate = $.18 per bushel; CCC rate = $.20 per bushel; Total = $.38 per bushel.
Jan. 15 to April 15. Except for hemp and tobacco, USDA may reconsider eli- Livestock payment rates gibility of the other commodities, if Hogs — CARES rate = $18 per head there is evidence that supports the for market hogs; $28 per head for hogs required 5 percent price decline. under 120 pounds. CCC rate = $17 per Payment structure and timeline head for all hogs. — The funding for the CFAP direct Cattle — CARES rate = $214 per payments will be derived as follows: head for market cattle; $102 per head $9.5 billion from the $2.2 trillion for feeder cattle under 600 pounds and CARES Act and $6.5 billion that is $139 per head for 600 pounds and currently available through over; $92 per head for market cows. Commodity Credit Corporation funds. CCC rate = $33 per head for all cattle. There are two listed payment rates for Sheep — CARES rate = $33 per each commodity, one for the CARES head for market sheep less than two Act funds and one for the CCC funds. years old. CCC rate = $7 per head for The eligible payments are then comall sheep. bined into one payment to producers, which will be paid at 80 percent as an Dairy — CARES rate = $4.71 per initial payment and the final 20 perhundredweight of eligible production. cent will be paid later, as funds become CCC rate = $1.47 per hundredweight available. FSA hopes to have initial of eligible production. payments out very soon after the See THIESSE, pg. 11 CFAP application process is completed.
CFAP Livestock Payment Examples
Background information: Farmer produced 200,000 bushels of corn and 60,000 bushels of soybeans in 2019. Farmer had 150,000 bushels of corn and 20,000 bushels of soybeans in inventory on Jan. 15 (unpriced).
Background information: Hogs — Farmer sold 5,000 market hogs from Jan. 15, 2020 to April 15 2020, with 8,000 head in inventory on May 1, 2020. Cattle — Farmer sold 100 yearling steers (700 lb.) on March 1, 2020 and has 400 calves in inventory on May 14, 2020.
Eligible Bushels
Payment Rates
Lesser of 50 percent of production or the unpriced inventory on Jan. 15, 2020. Corn — 100,000 bushels (200,000 bushels x .50) is less than 150,000 bushels (inventory on Jan. 15, 2020). Soybeans — 20,000 bushels (inventory on Jan. 15, 2020) is less than 30,000 bushels (60,000 bushels x .50).
Payment Rates
Corn —67 cents per bushel (32 cent per bushel CARES rate plus 35 cent per bushel CCC rate). Soybeans — 95 cents per bushel (45 cent per bushel CARES rate plus 50 cent per bushel CCC rate).
Payment Calculations and Amounts
CFAP payments for crops are paid on 50 percent of the eligible bushels (calculated above). The initial CFAP payment will be 80 percent of the eligible amount, with 20 percent later. Corn — 100,000 bushels x .50 = 50,000 bushels x 67 cents per bushel = $33,500 (total payment) x .80 = $26,800 (initial). Soybeans — 20,000 bushels x .50 = 10,000 bushels x 95 cents per bushel = $9,500 (total payment) x .80 = $7,600 (initial).
Hogs — $18 per head (CARES rate on hogs marketed) and $17 per head (CCC rate on inventory). Cattle — $139 per head (CARES rate on yearlings sold) and $33 per head (CCC rate on calves in inventory).
Payment Calculations and Amounts
Livestock CFAP payments are paid as follows: CARES payment rate on animals sold from Jan. 15, 2020 to April 15, 2020, and the CCC rate on the highest inventory number between April 16, 2020 and May 14, 2020. The initial CFAP payment will be 80 percent of the eligible amount, with 20 percent later. Hogs — 5,000 head sold x $18 per head = $90,000 (CARES) + 8,000 head inventory x $17 per head = $136,000 (CCC). CFAP payment = $90,000 + $136,000 = $226,000 (total payment) x .80 = $180,800 (initial) Cattle — 100 steers sold x $139 per head = $13,900 (CARES) + 400 head inventory x $33 per head = $13,200 (CCC). CFAP payment = $13,900 + $13,200 = $27,100 (total payment) x .80 = $21,680 (initial) Table developed by Kent Thiesse
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
PAGE 9
Planting near completion, but seeds are thirsty
Andy Pulk — Wannaska, Minn. May 22
Planting is now in full swing on the Pulk farm. The Land spoke with Andy Pulk on May 22 as he reported that 400 acres of corn and 500 acres of oats have been planted so far. “It went in beautifully.” Pulk finished planting oats on May 20 and still has a ways to go in getting all the corn planted. He started corn on May 17. Pulk rolled all the rye grass acres this week and will be fertilizing it today. “I have one field of beans that are prepped.” He was able to get a lot accomplished in the field lately thanks to great planting weather. “This past week, it’s been exceptional.” Andy Pulk In the next two weeks he will be spraying rye grass and top dressing the corn fields with urea. Pulk will continue to work on corn stalks, trying to get those fields ready to plant. “I’m concerned about the corn ground. It would be close to a miracle to get the corn stalks tilled up and seeded.” All that field work may have to wait as there’s a chance of rain this Saturday and Sunday. “I’m expecting to be shut down for the weekend.” While Pulk would like to be in the field planting, a little rain break allows him the opportunity to work on his garden, something he doesn’t always have time to do. Though planting in the field and in the garden still needs to be completed, Pulk is happy to finally begin getting the seed in the ground.
FROM T
FIELDS
Compiled by KRISTIN KVENO – The Land Staff Writer
Colby Deters — Sauk Centre, Minn. May 24
The planting is complete on the Deters farm. The Land spoke with Colby Deters on May 24 as he reported that the corn crop was planted by May 7. Deters is currently in between planting and first crop hay. Right now, working on machinery will be a priority. “There’s a lot of equipment repair and maintenance.” He’s also moving cattle and working with the dairy employees on keeping Colby Deters them updated with the latest information for the dairy operation. Deters will be doing the first crop hay next weekend. Until then he will be keeping his fingers crossed that rain is on its way. “We have gotten zero rain.” Deters is grateful that the manure application on the fields is helping retain moisture. It hasn’t rained on the Deters farm since April 25. There’s a small chance for rain on May 25. Unfortunately, other than that, there’s no moisture in the forecast. Deters typically sprays for flies after it rains. Since that hasn’t happened in a month, he will start spraying this Tuesday or Wednesday. “It’s a significant job that needs to be done.” While rain is currently in short supply, work is not for Deters. He continues to get ready for the first hay crop and hopes the rain will follow.
2019 TIMPTE AG HOPPER
Manual; Air Ride Suspension; ISX Cummins Engine 450 hp; Yes Engine Brake; 3:58 Ratio; Tandem Axle; LP22.5 Tires; Aluminum Wheels; 178 in Wheelbase; Drive Side: Left Hand Drive; cruise, PW, PM, PL, air ride cab, air slide 5th, just in 758,706 miles
Call For Price
For Sale Price: $36,750
1996 SPECIALIZED For Sale Price: $13,750
“Fast, long days.” The Land spoke with Todd Wentzel on May 22 as he reported the end of planting went well. He finished soybeans on May 7 and planted black beans for the first time ever on May 20. “It went fine,” he said. Todd Wentzel The Wentzel farm received a little less than a half an inch of rain last weekend — which was just what the fields needed as moisture is in short supply. Unfortunately, that may be all the rain for some time as the chances for a rain-filled Memorial Day weekend keep getting reduced in the forecast. Warm weather is also wanted as that too seems to be lacking. Wentzel will be spraying wheat in the next week and then onto spraying corn. After that, he will be spending time scouting fields, checking on the remaining corn and soybean emergence. “Stands look good for the most part,” Wentzel said. While the other crops may not love this coolerthan-normal weather which has seemed to have stuck around, Wentzel’s wheat is enjoying it and doing well. Overall, the rain seems to be scarce and so is the warmer temperatures; but there’s optimism for the newly-planted crops. “We just need some sunshine.”
2008 VOLVO
Aluminum Wheels; Tandem Axle; Aluminum Composition; 66 in Inside Height; AG HOPPER Model; 2 Hoppers; 11R 24.5 Tires; Electric tarp, SS front corners and rear, sight windows, 3 rows of 5 bullet lights, virgin bridgestones.
48’; All Steel Wheels; Sliding Spread Axle; Steel Composition; Drop Deck Model; 255/70R 22.5 Tires; Air Ride Suspension; 4’x18”x18” boxes; tires are 50%, brakes & drums are 50%.
H E
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2013 WESTERNSTAR
Tandem Axle; Left Hand Drive; Air Ride; DD15 Engine Type; 505 hp; 11R 22.5 Tires; 13 speed; Manual Transmission; full locking rear ends, 90% steers, 75% drives, new brakes and drums, clean 715,810 miles.
For Sale Price: $36,900
Todd Wentzel — Murdock, Minn. May 22
2011 MACK
Aluminum wheels; Tandem Axle; Left Hand Drive, Air Ride; MP7 Engine Type; 405 hp; LP 22.5 Tires; 10 speed; Automatic Transmission; tires at 95%, brakes and drums are 95%, very clean inside and out, SS half fenders, jake, cruise, 434,468 miles.
For Sale Price: $29,900
2020 DEMCO
40’; Aluminum Wheels; Tandem Axle; Aluminum Composition; 68 in Inside Height; AG HOPPER Model; 2 Hopper; 11R 24.5 Tires; Spring Suspension; ladder and cat walks; LED lights; sight windows.
For Sale Price: $31,750
PAGE 10
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
Dummer family continues maple syrup tradition By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer ST. GEORGE, Minn. — Every spring you will find a fire crackling and steam rising from a vat of boiling maple syrup on a bluff above Rock Creek, near St. George, Minn. For 40 years and counting, making maple syrup has happened in this very spot. Matt Dummer is proud of this fact and works hard to ensure this practice will be around for years to come. Dummer and his wife Nicki are farming and raising their family on the same land his grandpa, George Dummer, and grandma, Jean, farmed — and also made maple syrup. “Grandpa loved the woods, that describes Nicki, me and the kids too,” Dummer said. The syrup-making process involves the whole Dummer family which includes, Zach, age 5; Luke, age 3; and Leah, age 1. On the Dummer farm, they raise hogs and grow corn and soybeans. Also found on the farm are 100 hard maple trees which are tapped every spring for maple syrup. Tree tapping usually starts in March, though it is all weather-dependent. Above freezing temperatures during the day and below freezing temps at night is what gets the sap flowing. Some of the trees Dummer taps are 100 years old. They are healthy and viable. Most of those same trees were tapped by Grandpa George all those years ago. According to Dummer, where you put the tap in the tree makes a difference. “You favor the south facing Photos by Kristin Kveno side as it heats up quicker,” he said. The taps are five Matt and Nicki Dummer live on the family farm raising sixteenths of an inch in diameter and are drilled two children (left to right) Luke, Zach and Leah. and a half inches into the tree. Using that small of a
Photo submitted
Tree tapping usually begins in March.
Some of the trees tapped at Dummer’s farm are 100 years old.
diameter tap allows the tree to heal quicker while getting the same amount of sap production as a larger diameter tap. Dummer puts two taps in per tree. A well-beloved tractor on the Dummer farm is a vital part of sap collecting. The 1950 8N Ford was restored by Dummer and Grandpa George 18 years ago. The tractor has barrels on it which holds the sap that has been collected from the trees. The collection of sap is an important job for the Dummer kids and one they take pride being a part of. They take the pails containing the sap and empty them into the barrels. Each tree produces four gallons per day. It takes Dummer and family about 90 minutes each day to collect the sap. Once the sap has been collected, it is time to turn it into syrup. Dummer cooks 100 gallons of sap at a time. It takes 35 to 40 gallons to make one gallon of syrup. In cooking syrup, there is a definite risk of burning it or not cooking it enough. Overcooking causes crystals to form in the syrup. If it is not cooked enough, mold can form in the jar. “It’s a lot of wood and a lot of time,” Dummer said. It takes about six hours for the sap to cook in the evaporating process and turn into syrup. This involves cooking the water out of the sap. It is then time for the finisher process, which brings the syrup to the right consistency. Dummer uses a hydrometer to test the syrup’s density during this part. The syrup is ready when it measures 66 percent sugar solids on the hydrometer. “Finished syrup goes through a See SYRUP, pg. 11
Photo submitted
Once collected, the sap is filtered to remove impurities.
This cooker can handle 100 gallons of sap at a time.
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
PAGE 11
Program applications on a first-come, first-served basis THIESSE, from pg. 8 CFAP payment calculations Field crops — Both the CARES and CCC payments will be based on the following bushels or amount: The lesser of 50 percent of the verified 2019 production for a crop or the unpriced bushels in inventory on January 15, 2020. The CARES and CCC rates are then applied on 50 percent of the eligible bushels (refer to examples in the accompanying table). Livestock — The CARES rate funding is based on the number of head sold from Jan. 15 to April 15. The CCC rate funding is based on the highest inventory between April 16 and May 14 (refer to examples in the accompanying table). Dairy — CARES payments will be based on the certified milk production for the first quarter of
2020. The CCC payments will be based on the first quarter production times a factor of 1.014. Calculations for specialty crops and other commodities are available at www.farmers.gov/CFAP.
Payment limits — Following are payment limits that apply to CPAP payments: $250,000 per individual or entity or all commodities. A corporation or The application and other information for CFAP partnership may have payment limits for up to three individuals, for a total of $750,000 — provided are available at: www.farmers.gov/CFAP they meet eligibility requirements. A person must Kent Thiesse is a government farm programs anahave an adjusted gross income of less than $900,000 lyst and a vice president at MinnStar Bank in Lake to be eligible. Crystal, Minn. He may be reached at (507) 726-2137 or kent.thiesse@minnstarbank.com. v Other details — Payments through CFAP are direct payments to producers of crops, livestock, and specialty crops and do not have to be repaid. This is different than the PPP and EIDL loan funding that was received through the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Syrup season ‘never a dull moment’ SYRUP, from pg. 10 series of filters before bottled at a hot temperature,” Dummer said. While Dummer does most of the work in making maple syrup (along with Nicki and the kids), friends and relatives help cut wood which is used to heat the sap in the evaporating process. “People are very interested in this (maple syrup). It’s never a dull moment when it comes to showing people the process.” Making maple syrup goes on daily at the Dummer farm every day for two to six weeks during syrup season. This year was a good year for making syrup. “It looks like it will be a record syrup year,” Dummer said. Dummer and Nicki sell the syrup to family, friends and through Facebook. They both
Information on the CFAP program and applications will be available at local FSA offices. Producers are encouraged to be patient with FSA office staff, as this is a new program and there is likely to be heavy demand for enrollment, due to the wide range of commodities which are eligible for CFAP payments.
A 1950 8N Ford tractor, restored by Dummer and Grandpa George, is the workhorse of the operation, hauling barrels of sap.
explain that when they head into New Ulm to run errands, they always bring a few bottles of syrup along, as they seem to run into people they know who would like to buy a bottle or two. The money they make from their maple syrup sales go to their children’s education. A lot has changed since Grandpa George started making maple syrup 40 years ago, but the syrup making process has not. “The concept has never changed.” Dummer has so many wonderful memories of making syrup with his Grandpa, those memories can be felt every time he creates a new batch of syrup with his family. The tradition of spending time with family while making syrup out on the farm is one that Dummer is honored to continue. “It’s something we look forward to every year.” v
wants to hear from you!
Letters to the editor are always welcome. Send your letters to: Editor, The Land, P.O. Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56002 e-mail: editor@thelandonline.com
All letters must be signed and accompanied by a phone number (not for publication) to verify authenticity.
PAGE 12
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
Pork continues to have a place on your plate The implications of the current Covid-19 pandemic have resulted in a number of unique challenges in daily life. Months ago, it would have been hard to imagine a world where common, everyday products and services — such as hand sanitizer or haircuts — would become nearly unavailable. In the situation of bars and restaurants being closed or under limited service, families have found themselves needing to cook from home more often and assume greater responsibility over their weekly meal plan. Although many dining establishments are in the process of slowly phasing back into normal business operation, there undoubtedly will be a cultural shift in dining habits as we uphold a priority for precaution and distance awareness in the near future. In doing so, social gatherings and family outings once planned for public areas might take advantage of more private alternatives in order to reduce unnecessary risk — especially to individuals of advanced age or illness. Covid-19 has caused us to rethink the activities we’ve grown accustomed to. But one thing unlikely to change will be our penchant for grilling and the American tradition of the outdoor barbeque. As the Midwest moves into summer time and warmer temperatures, outdoor cooking will become more and more frequent across neighborhoods. While the number of different options for the grilling season are endless, so too are the reasons why we should be saving room on our plates for pork and pork products. Pork is an excellent source of many nutrients — including protein, zinc, iron and B-vitamins. Three ounces of pork is also a source of thiamin, selenium, niacin, phosphorus, riboflavin and potassium. Modern pork in the United States is leaner than it was even 20 years ago — about 16 percent leaner, according to the National Pork Board. Cuts from the loin, such as pork chops and pork roast, are leaner than skinless chicken thigh, and pork tenderloin is as lean as skinless chicken breast, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture data. Americans have historically held red meat as the preferred source of protein, and even during these unprecedented times, that sentiment remains true. Despite the impacts of supply and grocery store accessibility, recent retail sales data from March and April 2020 show that U.S. meat department sales were up substantially in both value and volume, and accounted for more than a 20 percent increase compared to the same period a year ago (according to 210 Analytics, LLC). In an effort to alleviate the bottleneck and backups created by plant shutdowns or reduced processing capacity, many people are also taking the opportunity to support local pork producers and custom processors by buying whole or half hogs direct from the farm. This practice, coupled with the stocking up done in preparation for various shelter-in-place/ stay at home orders, means many freezers are teem-
UniversityofMinnesota
EXTENSION
SWINE &U
ing with meat and ready for the patio season. The questions now SWINE & U are: what pork recipe to choose, By Jason Ertl how to prepare it, and how to do so safely. Because no two people have the same taste preferences, it’s impossible to make a claim about which cut or recipe ranks among the best. The Pork Checkoff website (https://www.pork.org/ cooking/) has a myriad of resources and further information about the different cuts of pork, where they come from, and featured recipes to help consumers bring the best out of the pork they purchase. If you’re still looking for inspiration on what to make for a dinner with family or friends, check out social media — another great source for recipes and preparation techniques. Liking or following certain food/cooking channels will supply these ideas directly to your daily feed, and can provide hours of satisfying video clips to relax and enjoy. Food safety is top priority to the farmers, the processing plants, haulers and at the grocery store. This commitment to maintain safe food doesn’t need to end at the checkout aisle. Whether you get your pork from a nationwide chain or a local butcher, similar practices should be taken to properly transport, store and prepare pork for the next homecooked meal. Washing your hands has certainly become an essential part of daily life, and this practice should continue at the grill out — before and after handling or the preparation of food. Using warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds has been shown to be effective at reducing bacteria and other pathogens present on hands. Washing surfaces, as well as utensils, with hot, soapy water will also reduce the risk of harmful microorganisms. Raw meat provides an ideal environment for bacteria and germs to grow. After purchase or transport, it’s recommended to return raw pork or other meats to refrigeration as soon as possible — never allowing meat to sit in temperatures over 40 F for more than two hours. When outdoors (and especially during the dog days of summer) that threshold for time left outside refrigeration will be reduced to one hour at maximum. Store raw meat, poultry and seafood on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator in order to prevent cross contamination from juices onto produce or other foods intended to be consumed raw. Cross contamination can also occur on dishware and cutting boards, so using separate plates or containers to handle raw meats, cooked meats, and fresh fruit
and produce will greatly reduce that risk potential. A general guideline would be to cook or freeze raw meats within two or three days of purchase or thawing. Check the settings of the freezer to ensure the temperature doesn’t stray more than a few degrees away from 0 F. If kept in properly sealed packaging, the quality characteristics of raw and cooked meat products can be preserved for 3-4 and 2-3 months respectively. Although it won’t be dangerous from a food safety perspective, meat quality can begin to deteriorate beyond that window. Ideally, frozen pork and other meats should be thawed in the refrigerator. Microwave defrosting and submersion in cold water are also safe and effective ways to bring meat to a workable temperature. However, when done by this method, meat must be cooked or prepared immediately following. Never thaw meat at room temperature as there is a greater likelihood of meat surfaces reaching the unsafe zone outside of 38-40 F — leading to an increased risk for the development of bacteria or other food borne pathogens. In the past, it was common practice to cook pork to or beyond 160 F — out of fear of parasites such as Trichanella spiralis. Modern production practices, including indoor housing-based systems or use of anthelmintics, have essentially eliminated this problem in the United States. However, that tradition of overcooking pork remained — leaving choice cuts of meat dry, tough and with a less than-enjoyable eating experience. In recognition of this issue, the U.S. Department of Agriculture revised their cooking temperature recommendations for whole muscle cuts of meat — including pork — in 2011. These revisions, based on a better understanding of the fat to lean composition of modern hogs and food-borne pathogens, lowered the safe thresholds for whole muscle pork cuts from 160 F down to 145 F with a 3-minute rest following removal from heat source. It is important to remember there are differences in the recommended temperatures meat products need to reach in order to be considered safe: Ground products (ground pork, beef), 160 F; whole muscle cuts of pork, lamb and beef),: 145 F (plus a 3 minute rest); and recooked ham (to reheat), 165 F. Reheat cooked hams packaged in USDA-inspected plants to 140 F. A full list of safe minimum cooking temperature charts can be found at https://www.foodsafety.gov/ food-safety-charts/safe-minimum-cooking-temperature. See SWINE & U, pg. 15
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
Cheese market is strong, but industry is ‘cautious’ This column was written the week before Memorial for the marketing week endDay and Managing Editor ing May 29. Corey Geiger talked about it in the Memorial Day Dairy Dairy prices ended May in Radio Now broadcast. far better shape than they were on May 1. In fact, Geiger said the Covid-19 cheese handily topped $2 pandemic took financial per pound for the first time planning on a roller coaster since November 2019. The and they asked particiMIELKE MARKET 40-pound cheddar blocks pants what actions they WEEKLY closed the Memorial Day were taking to keep afloat. By Lee Mielke holiday-shortened week at He reported that 68 per$2.23 per pound. This cent looked to impleis up 29.25 cents on the ment cost control meaweek. sures while 35 percent reevaluated lines of Dairy Market News reports the cheese price push has Midwest cheese credit. He said 23 percent chose to make no financial changes at this time producers questioning how long the busy ordering stretch will last. Milk is while readjusting amortization schedmuch less available than it was at the ules and requesting a deferral in principle payments garnered the fewest height of the Covid-19 effect last responses at 19 percent and 17 permonth when some plants were down cent respectively. and others were running limited schedules. Cheese inventories are Guest speaker Sam Miller of BMO tight, particularly on blocks. Harris Bank said they looked at cost of production on a client-by-client Cash butter was not doing as well basis and asked what price risk manand fell to $1.5775 per pound on May agement plans their clients had in 27. However it closed on May 29 at place: Dairy Margin Coverage, Dairy $1.66 which is up 6.75 cents on the week, after losing 5.25 cents the previ- Revenue Protection, contracts, futures, and options positions. They looked ous week. where their milk was being shipped Western contacts say retail butter and what that particular processor sales are strong but bulk butter was doing among many other items on demand is weak. The opening of restheir list. Miller cited the rising Class taurants has improved food service III futures markets and said, “There sales, but volumes are at a fraction of are some opportunities out there.” normal levels. Class II processors and Roger Murray of Farm Credit East ice cream makers are pulling more stated, “Our keys that we’ve been talkheavily on cream stocks so less cream ing to customers about for success is is moving to the churn, relieving a bit of pressure on butter makers. Slightly utilizing and leaning on trusted advibetter demand and lighter production sors whether that’s your veterinarian, nutritionist, loan officer, or others. has cut into stocks. However, butter Work on developing Plan A, Plan B, inventories are long. and even Plan C and utilize all those Grade A nonfat dry milk remained tools available.” comfortably above $1 per pound and Geiger said there were participants closed May 29 at $1.03. This is 1.75 from over 40 states coast to coast, but cents higher on the week but 2.5 cents none of the respondents stated they below a year ago. would shut down their operations. Dry whey saw a 30.5 cent per pound “People are optimistic,” Geiger conclose, down 5.75 cents on the week cluded, “and have a strong desire to be after losing 2.75 cents the previous persistent through this.” week, and 4.75 cents below a year ago. Lee Mielke is a syndicated columnist n featured in newspapers across the country and he may be reached at Financial strategy was the topic of lkmielke@juno.com. v Hoards Dairyman’s Dairy Livestream
MARKETING
PAGE 13
Featured Recipe from
“Recipes from
”
TURTLE BARS Grace Heinz Rogers, MN
1¼ c. quick oatmeal 1¼ c. flour ¼ tsp. salt ¾ tsp. baking soda 1 c. brown sugar
1 c. butter, melted ¾ c. pecans 1¼ c. milk chocolate chips 1 pkg. Kraft caramels 6 Tbsp. cream
Mix first 6 ingredients together and press ¾ of mixture into 9 x 13 pan. Bake at 350° for 10 minutes. While hot, sprinkle with pecans and chocolate chips. Melt Kraft caramels and cream together and pour over pecans and chocolate chips. Sprinkle with remaining crumb mixture. Bake at 350° for additional 15 - 20 minutes. These freeze well.
Recipes from Volume IV Sponsored by
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12
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www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
MARKETING
Grain Outlook Big fund buying effort boosts July corn to May price highs
The following marketing analysis is for the week ending May 29. CORN — Corn finally was able to kick out of the $3.12.25 to $3.25.5 trading range it has been in the entire month of May in the holiday-shortened trading week. Huge fund buying in the latter half of the week was the force behind July corn trading to a new high for PHYLLIS NYSTROM CHS Hedging Inc. the month at $3.30.75 per bushel. St. Paul Funds have been carrying a large net short position for some time, nothing near a record, but the largest in over a year. The buying this week was viewed as a lightening of that position before month-end and improving demand from ethanol, feed and exports. The forecast for the coming week is for hotter, drier conditions, which isn’t unwelcome with the crop trying to establish itself with a good root system; but could be price positive if it continues. An improving ethanol scenario was supportive as the world slowly reopens and increases gasoline demand. Farmer selling saw a small increase, but with Caronavirus Food Assistance Program money headed their way, sales were muted. As the week ended, corn closed lower to break a string of four consecutive higher closes as the market awaited President Trump’s press conference on China. Weekly ethanol production was up for the fourth week in a row. Production increased 61,000 barrels per day to 724,000 bpd. Stocks were down 400,000 barrels to 23.2 million barrels. Stocks have dropped 4.5 million barrels over the past five weeks — a record fiveweek draw. However, stocks are still 2.4 percent higher than a year ago. Margins improved 2 cents to a positive 3 cents per gallon. Gasoline demand over the last four weeks is down nearly 26 percent from last year, but was up modestly week-on-week. Weekly export sales were below expectations at just 16.8 million bushels and the lowest since the first of the calendar year. This figure still beats the 11 million bushels per week needed to hit the USDA’s export target of 1.775 billion bushels. We are running 17 percent behind last year on total commitments. New crop sales were 1.9 million bushels, bringing total new crop sales commitments to 133.3 million bushels compared to 102 million bushels last year. The Buenos Aires Grains Exchange pegs Argentina’s corn harvest at 47 percent complete vs. 36 percent on average. They are estimating the corn crop at 50 million metric tons, the same as the U.S. Department of Agriculture forecast. As of May 24, corn planting was 88 percent complete vs. 82 percent average and 90 percent expected. North Dakota was only 54 percent complete, leaving approxi-
mately 1.5 million intended acres to plant. It’s yet to be seen how many intended corn acres will be switched to soybeans or left unplanted since their insurance date has passed. U.S. corn emergence was 64 percent vs. 58 percent average. The first condition report showed 70 percent of the crop was rated good/excellent. Outlook: Corn got the kick it needed this week from fund short-covering and increased ethanol production. Limiting the upside is a crop that is off to a good start, political tensions with China, and the prospects of large carryouts this and next year. Money from the CFAP program will begin flowing quickly into growers’ hands and this is expected to allow growers to continue to hold grain off the market until flat price goals are either met or at least approached. July corn has traded around $3.20 for a few weeks. If we can keep demand trending higher and without political interference, we could move this up to $3.25 to $3.30 per bushel. December corn has been trapped between $3.30 and $3.40 per bushel for most of the month. This range may stay intact without a demand or weather impetus to push us into a $3.40 to $3.50 range. The long-term attitude is still negative, but short-lived bounces can’t be ruled out as weather will be watched closely and you never know what’s around the next political corner. For the week, July corn was 7.75 cents higher at $3.25.75 and December was 6 cents higher at $3.38.75 per bushel. Seasonally, July corn trends lower from the last half June to the last half of July. SOYBEANS — Soybeans were kicked higher with double digits gains when traders returned from the Memorial Day weekend. There wasn’t a clear-cut headline for the jump, but gains were held until later in the week when political and technical considerations capped the upside. China’s new legislative laws concerning Hong Kong, and how China handled the coronavirus outbreak pushed the United States
Cash Grain Markets
corn/change* soybeans/change* St. Cloud $2.77 +.04 $7.94 +.14 Madison $2.80 +.02 $7.90 +.11 Redwood Falls $2.98 +.04 $7.85 +.10 Fergus Falls $2.64 +.10 $7.76 +.08 Morris $2.78 +.07 $7.85 +.08 Tracy $2.84 +.09 $7.90 +.01 Average:
$2.80
$7.87
Year Ago Average: $3.77 $7.85 Grain prices are effective cash close on June 2. *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.
to respond. The trade was cautious ahead of President Trump’s May 29 comments. China was reportedly buying Brazilian soybeans for fall during the week at a premium to U.S. origin. As I write, President Trump has just completed his press conference. Trump said he wants an open conversation with China, but we must protect our interests. He says China has broken promises to us. The United States will suspend entry of certain Chinese nationals into the U.S. who have been identified as security risks (likely officials responsible for actions in Hong Kong). Hong Kong is not autonomous enough to merit special treatment from the United States. The U.S. will terminate its relationship with the World Health Organization, saying China has total control over the WHO. Those funds will be diverted to other global organizations. This in not all inclusive, but they were viewed favorably by the stock market as it recovered early losses after the statements. Now we wait to see how China responds. Argentina’s soybean harvest is nearing completion at 97 percent complete, according to the BAGE. They kept the production estimate at 49.5 mmt vs. USDA’s 51 mmt. Logistics continue to be a problem on the Parana River in Argentina with water levels at 22.3 percent of normal. Freight costs are rising as vessels must load a portion of their capacity upriver, then load additional tonnage down river. Some vessels have run aground and there was talk of some shipments being switched to Brazil due to logistical problems. Conab predicts Brazil’s soybean production will increase 33 percent over the next 10 years to 152 mmt, with bean acreage up nearly 27 percent. Brazil confirmed that a vessel crew member tested positive for Covid-19. The entire crew was tested, the vessel anchored in quarantine offshore, and the berth was closed for the day. This highlights the possibility of more problems associated with Covid-19 in Brazil. Weekly export sales were as expected at 23.7 million bushels. The weekly sales were higher than the 9 million bushels of weekly sales needed to meet the USDA’s export forecast of 1.675 billion bushels. Total old crop sales commitments are 9 percent behind last year. The USDA is forecasting a 4.2 percent decline in year-on-year exports. China has bought 14.8 mmt of U.S. soybeans so far this year vs. 13.5 mmt by this time last year. China only has just over 2 mmt of unshipped bushels left for this marketing year. New crop sales were 7.5 million bushels. Total new crop sales commitments stand at 85.7 million vs. 53.1 million bushels at this time last year. China imported 5.9 mmt of Brazilian soybeans in April which was 88.5 percent of China’s total soybean imports. The United States accounted for just 665,600 metric tons of China’s April soybean imports. See NYSTROM, pg. 15
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 29/JUNE 5, 2020
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
PAGE 15
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 scheduled 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 twoinch depth. Dr. Todd Frank, Research Director of Beck’s Seeds western division was diligently placing seed envelopes into special containers for his planting crew. Later that afternoon they would 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.”
SWINE & U, from pg. 12
the meat, away from bone, fat or gristle will yield the most reliable reading in only a matter of seconds. Check out the National Pork Checkoff website at https://www.pork.org/food-safety/ for more information about food safety and pork quality. Jason Ertl is the Extension Educator for Ag Production Systems in Nicollet and Sibley Counties. He can be reached at ertlx019@umn.edu. v
Use a meat thermometer to be safe While some grill masters may claim to know exactly when a particular cut of meat is “done”, the only true way to know is by using a meat thermometer. Digital meat thermometers are well worth the investment and reduce the margin for error in these types of cooking applications. Inserting the thermometer into the center or thickest cross section of
Soybean market needs some news NYSTROM, from pg. 14 China has found new cases of African swine fever as they rebuild their hog herd. China’s largest hog producer built nine new pig farms in the first quarter with more under construction. As of May 24, 65 percent of the soybean crop was planted compared to 55 percent average and estimates for 70 percent complete. Emergence was 35 percent vs. 27 percent average. Outlook: There are some wet areas in the United States where planting is delayed, but the corn belt weather is mostly a non-issue. The popular talking point in soybeans this week was how the United States would officially respond to China’s actions in
Hong Kong. In post-President Trump’s trading, the Dow recovered losses from earlier in the day (see comments above). How China will react to these statements will be monitored for their impact on commodity markets. The market needs to see additional Chinese business, weather threats, or logistical problems in South America to push another leg higher. Nystrom’s Notes: Contract changes for the week as of the close on May 29: Chicago July wheat gained 12 cents at $5.20.75, Kansas City rallied 26 cents to $4.70.5, and Minneapolis was up 12 cents at $5.25 per bushel. Crude oil had its largest one-month rally on record as it finished the week up $2.24 at $35.49 per barrel. v
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 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 See SEED TOUR, pg. 16
PAGE 16
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THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
Seed companies are planting test plots earlier this year SEED TOUR, from pg. 15 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 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 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. This spring, Renk is sowing about 37,000 two-row, 20-foot row research plots in the Olivia area. Another 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 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 foods are people eat. I think now is 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.” 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 all-in 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 29 /JUNE 5, 2020
Employment
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Farm Equipment
WANTED: Harvest help need- FOR SALE: Grain bins (2) 2012 JD 8285R MFD, Front ed! 2 combine operators, 10,000 bushel, (1) 12,500 dual ready, early engine reneed CDL or Class B truck bushel, (2) with drying build w/warranty, new rear drivers for summer of 2020. floors, all three with fans. tires, in-field work, very Meals and lodging included. Located near Mankato MN. nice, $92,500. 715-572-1234 320-815-3495 507-317-0629 FOR SALE: Case IH 8860 self Please support advertis- propelled haybine, 14’ sickle Real Estate ers you see in The Land! cut w/ cond, very low hrs; (2) Hiniker cult, model 5000 FOR SALE: Grain bins - (1) Sell your land or real estate in & black cult, both 8R30” 27’ x 6 rings, and (1) 27’ x 30 days for 0% commission. with rolling shields. All in 9 rings, located in Fountain Call Ray 507-339-1272 good condition. 320-630-1777 MN area. Reasonable. Call 507-459-1724 Leave message. FOR SALE: Hesston 30 StackReal Estate hand, w/ stack mover, $250; Wanted Binkley 30’ implement mover, $100; International 8R30” WANTED: Land & farms. I rear mount cultivator, $100. have clients looking for 507-859-2766 or 507-530-0208 dairy, & cash grain operations, as well as bare land FOR SALE: 2017 72’ Summers parcels from 40-1000 acres. Harrow, 5/8” x 24” tines, Both for relocation & investments. If you have even Stormor Bins & EZ-Drys. less than 3,000 acres of use. thought about selling con- 100% financing w/no liens or Can text pictures. Must sell. tact: Paul Krueger, Farm & red tape, call Steve at Fair- $28,000 218-686-9589 Land Specialist, Edina Re- fax Ag for an appointment. alty, 138 Main St. W., New 888-830-7757 Please recycle this magazine. Prague, MN 55372. paulkrueger@edinarealty.com (612)328-4506
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Farm Equipment
PAGE 17
Farm Equipment
Farm Equipment
FOR SALE: 24’ 4 seat soy- Harms Mfg. Land Rollers, Knight 252 Box Manure bean riding bar, 30 gal tank; Brand New, 12’-$6,800; Spreader with Hydraulic 16R30” hooded spray band- 14’-$7,000; 16’-$8,000; 24’- End Gate, Shedded, Not er, 300 gal tank & pump. $14,800; 32’-$17,500; 42’- Used last 10 years, Nice. De$21,500. Others from 8’-62’. 507-859-2766 or 507-530-0208 livery Available, $4,250. 715-234-1993 815-988-2074 FOR SALE: New Holland 256 side rake; John Deere 115 Sell your farm equipment Krause 4600 12x30 hyd fold stalk chopper; EZ Trail 500 in The Land with a line ad. cult, nice, $2,450; Dembushel gravity box. co Conquest sprayer, 1100 507-345-4523 320-587-5823 gal, 60’ boom, 320x46 tires, JD 7720 Combine, 3800 hours; $4,750; JD 4455 MFW tracFOR SALE: Case IH 1830 JD Grain pick-up head; NH 12x30 flat fold vibra shank 311 Baler, $4,500; IHC 720 tor, P/S, 3 hyds, front fendcult w/ rolling shields, shed- 5-18 Plow, $3,000. Please call ers, $37,900; Rowse 290 9’ pull type sickle mower, ded, $4,500. 507-828-1036 507-524-4637 $3,900; Case IH 564 baler, FOR SALE: Vermeer 605C JD Model 700 7 Yard Dirt net & twine wrap, same as balers, 1 is repairable and Scraper, Good Condition, NH 7090, $9,750; JD 1075 1 has been used for parts. $6,950. Delivery Available running gear, $1,150. 320-769$300/OBO. 320-894-6271 2756 Winnebago, IL 815-988-2074
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’15 JD 690, 4x4, 1745/1160 sep hrs,
’17 Case CX57C, cab & air, 333 hrs........................... $49,000
CM, chopper, 650x38 tires & duals ................... $174,000 ’13 JD 660, 892/1180 CM, chopper duals.............. $125,000 ’04 JD 9760, 2268/3460 CM, chopper duals............ $49,000 ’01 JD 9650 STS, 3014/4325 CM, chopper, duals .... $35,000 ’00 JD 9650 STS, 2645/3623 chopper, duals ............ $35,000 ’01 JD 9750 STS, 3013/4156 CM, chopper, duals .... $37,000 ’11 Case/IH 8120, 1650/2250 Tracker, Rt, duals ....... $88,500 ’11 Case/IH 7120, 1610/2200 Tracker, Rt, duals ....... $88,500 ’10 Case/IH 7120, 1650/2250 Tracker, Rt, duals ....... $88,500
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’11 Bobcat E45EM, cab & air, 2965 hrs ..........................SOLD
WHEEL LOADERS
’14 JD 724 K, 9587 hrs, third valve, w/ medford forks ... $77,000 ’13 JD 644 K, 5520 hrs, quick coupler, 4.25 yd bkt .... $110,000 ’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 ’15 Cat 938M, 8275 hrs,cab air, quick coupler & bkt..... $82,000 ’15 Cat 966M XE, 3015 hrs, right control 5.5 yrd bkt ... $169,000 ’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........ $79,000 ’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
EXCAVATORS ’15 Cat 323 FL, 3768 hrs, 40" bkt............................ $110,000 ’14 Komatsu PC 138US-10, hyd thumb, 36" bkt .............SOLD ’11 JD 290GLC, 3347 hrs, 12'6" stick,42" bkt .......... $110,000 ’11 Case CX300C, 2658 hrs, 12' stick, 54" bucket .. $110,000
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
LARSON IMPLEMENTS 5 miles east of Cambridge, MN on Hwy. 95
Ask Your Auctioneer to Place Your Auction in The Land!
Look at our website for pictures & more listings: www.larsonimplements.com
763-689-1179
397100-1
PAGE 18
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
irst Your F or f Choice ds! ie Classif
Place d Your A Today!
Livestock, Machinery, Farmland... you name it! People will buy it when they see it in The Land! To submit your classified ad use one of the following options: Phone: 507-345-4523 or 1-800-657-4665 Mail to: The Land Classifieds, P.O. Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56002 Fax to: 507-345-1027 • Email: theland@TheLandOnline.com Online at: www.thelandonline.com DEADLINE: Friday at 5:00 p.m. for the following Friday edition. Plus! Look for your classified ad in the e-edition.
South Central Minnesota’s Daily News Source
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The 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
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ADVERTISING NOTICE: Please check your ad the first week it runs. We make every effort to avoid errors by checking all copy, but sometimes errors are missed. Therefore, we ask that you review your ad for correctness. If you find a mistake, please call (507) 345-4523 immediately so that the error can be corrected. We regret that we cannot be responsible for more than one week’s insertion if the error is not called to our attention. We cannot be liable for an amount greater than the cost of the ad. THE LAND has the right to edit, reject or properly classify any ad. Each classified line ad is separately copyrighted to THE LAND. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.
THE LAND — MAY 29 /JUNE 5, 2020 Farm Equipment
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
Tractors
Planting Equip
New Idea 3618 Spreader with ‘71 JD 4020, Cab, Air, Runs, ‘93 7200 MaxEmerge planter, hyd. gate, $1,750; Melroe Drives, Looks very Good, 12R30, precision corn meRetiring Farmer, ters, soybean meters, liq Danish Cultivator with roll- From ing shields, 4-row - 30”, $500; $13,900. 815-988-2074 fert & insect, front fold, PreJD 1941B, runs, new rear cision 2020 monitor, $15,000; NEW AND USED TRACTOR Marless no-till drill w/ coulter rubber, B.O.. 320-587-4544 PARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, cart, 15’, 10” spacing, $5,000. WANTED: Horse drawn ma- 55, 50 Series & newer trac- Both always shedded. 612chinery to buy or we will tors, AC-all models, Large 741-7949 or 612-701-7901 Inventory, We ship! Mark repair for you. MM corn sheller 1200 or 1210. McCor- Heitman Tractor Salvage JD 7000 Corn Planter, 2 Row, 3PT, $1,800, Fert. Avail. mick corn binder, MC or JD: 715-673-4829 $350/Row. 715-234-1993 threshing machines, hay mowers, PTO and ground Tillage Equip drive grain binders, ground Spraying Equip drive manure spreaders. Vernon Shetler, 27498 County FOR SALE: IH 1820 30 in. Road 37, Utica, MN 55979 cultivator, plumbed to side- Hardy 1000M Pull Type Spraydress liquid nitrogen, tunnel er, 60’ Boom All Options, WANTED: 6’ tandem pull shields, always shedded, $6,000 OBO. Winnebago, IL type International Harvester looks new. $5,000 Phone Delivery Available. disk. 507-339-3745 815-988-2074 507-360-5810 We buy Salvage Equipment Parts Available Hammell Equip., Inc. (507)867-4910
Find what you’re looking for in THE LAND
USED TRACTORS
HAY TOOLS
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
PAGE 19
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
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) 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)
Earthlink High Speed Internet. As Low As $14.95/month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed. Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink Today 1-855-6797096 (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)
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)
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)
CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer. Competitive Offer! Nationwide FREE Pick Up! Call Now For a Free Quote! 888-366-5659(MCN)
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)
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 8am-6pm ET) (MCN)
Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. 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)
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.”
BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers. Call for a free in-home consultation: 855-836-2250 (MCN)
BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 855-824-1258. (MCN) DIRECTV - Switch and Save! $39.99/ month. Select All-Included Package. 155 Channels. 1000s of Shows/Movies On Demand. FREE Genie HD DVR Upgrade. Premium movie channels, FREE for 3 mos! Call 1-844-245-2232. (MCN)
DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for 350 procedures. Call 1-855-973-9175 for details. www.dental50plus.com/ midwest 6118-0219. (MCN) Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 844-716-2411. (MCN)
Lung Cancer? Asbestos exposure in industrial, construction, manufacturing jobs, or military may be the cause. 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) NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book. FREE author submission kit! 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! operators, just real people Browse greetings, exchange and connect live. Try it free. 855-651-0114. (MCN)
No paid like you. messages Call now:
Need some cash! Sell us your unwanted gold, jewelry, watches & diamonds. Call GOLD GEEK 1-866-274-7898 or visit www. GetGoldGeek.com/midwest BBB A Plus Rated. Request your 100 Percent FREE, no risk, no strings attached appraisal kit. Call today! (MCN)
PAGE 20
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
Steffes Auction Calendar 2020
For more info, call: 1-800-726-8609 or visit our website: SteffesGroup.com Opening June 1 & Closing June 8
R&J Farms of Perley Partnership Estate & Farm Retirement Auction, Perley, MN, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 2 & Closing June 9
Kyle & Stacy Marschke Farm Retirement Auction, Alice, ND, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 4 & Closing June 10
Andringa Brothers Inc. Farm Retirement Auction, Crookston, MN, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 4 & Closing June 11
Rust Sales Tillage 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, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 5 & Closing June 10
Online Steffes Auction – 6/10, Upper Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 5 & Closing June 15
Eugene & Delores Undem Farm Retirement Auction, Rogers, ND, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 9 & Closing June 18 at 7PM
Tod & Renee Becker Farm Retirement Auction, Park Rapids, MN, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 10 & Closing June 18
John McConnell Farm Retirement Auction, Casselton, ND
Opening June 12 & Closing June 17
Larry & Monica Wieers Farm Retirement Auction, Argusville, ND, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 12 & Closing June 19
Doug & Diane Moderow Farm Retirement Auction, Buffalo, ND, 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 23 at 12PM Bryce Hoime Estate Farm Auction, Edmore, ND
Opening June 15 & Closing June 24 at 1PM
Anderson Farms Inventory Reduction Auction, Andover, SD, 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
Opening June 18 & Closing June 26
Country Lane Farms, LLC Farm Retirement Auction, Fairview, ND, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 19 & Closing June 23
James Legacie Farm Retirement Auction, Edmore, ND, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 19 & Closing June 24
Spraying Equip
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020 Hay & Forage Equipment
Harvesting Equip
Harvesting Equip
PROGRESSIVE 1000 gel FOR SALE: Vermeer R2300 2014 John Deere 615P-pickup JD 9650 STS, 2,700 Hours, sprayer, 60’ booms, hyd Twin Rake, 20 feet wide, hy- platform. like new, very low Very Nice, $32,500; ‘03 JD fold, hyd pump, Tee Jet draulic drive and hydraulic acres, $17,900. 507-327-6430 925F, Upper Excellent, 744A-3 zone controls, fold. Good condition. $8,500. $7,950; ‘03 JD 930F, AverJD 9500, 2,500 Hours, $18,900; age Shape, $4,950. Delivery 16.5Lx16.1 tires on 120’’ Call 507-259-6952 JD 693 with Hydraulic Deck Available. 815-988-2074 wheel spacing, Spartanburg Plate, just rebuilt, $7,950; JD foamer, $2,000. 715-878-9858 www.thelandonline.com 920 Poly Snout, Upper ExcelGrain Handling Classified Line Ads FOR SALE: John Deere 337 lent, $7,950. Delivery AvailEquipment able. 815-988-2074 square baler w/ 40 ejector, FOR SALE: (2) Superb congood condition, $3,400. tinuous flow grain dryers, 612-247-0297 Call 507-345-4523 Model SA500V, LP gas, $4,500/EA or $8,000/pr. Pictures available. 507-208-0466
WORK!
Thank You Farmers!
GT 1750 bu wet holding bin w/ whls, $500; Westfield 7x31 3 hp elec. sgl phase, belt drive auger, $750; DMC 700 transfer airsystem, 10 hp sgl phase, roots blower & airlock, many feet of 4” galvanized tube. John 507-381-7097 MC665 EMS Grain Dryer, S/N 41833, continuous flow, single phase, 2 - 10 hp fans w/ burners, manual vari-rate discharge, updated ignition boards, dried 20,000 bu corn fall/2019, $3,500. 20 mi. SE of Mankato. John 507-381-7097
Wanted All kinds of New & Used farm equipment - disc chisels, field cults, planters, soil finishers, cornheads, feed mills, discs, balers, haybines, etc. 507438-9782 WANTED: DAMAGED CORN LIGHT TEST WEIGHT & HIGHER MOISTURE CORN, PAYING COMPETITIVE PRICES, DEPENDING QUALITY. ZANE HANSON (507) 459-8653 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
Your ad could be here! 507-345-4523
Online Steffes Auction - 6/24, Upper Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 19 & Closing June 29
Ron & Terry Huber Harvest Equipment Auction, West Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction
Opening June 23 & Closing June 30
Pilon Brothers Inc. Retirement Auction, Grafton, ND, Timed Online Auction
Livestock FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred Kemen 320-598-3790
Copy is 5.16” x 4” THE LAND — MAY 29 /JUNE 5, 2020 Dairy
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
Cattle
Online Auction
Cattle
urs,Custom Heifer raiser has 3-2yr old Angus AI sired bulls, Are your cows socially disJD openings to raise your Heif- 2 by Sav Renown, $2,995/ tant? Get a friendly, polled ent, ers, we offer free stall fa- OBO. 1 by Final Answer, Hereford bull. Fertility testver- cilities all TMR fed, $2.35 a $2,500/OBO. Our herd sires, ed, delivery available. ery day from weaned through can see their calves, 1 long larsonherefordfarms.com pre-fresh. Call Ben for more yearling sired by Genex 715-495-0837 Ten Speed, $2,500/OBO. Exc details. 715-495-0481 quality, 50 yrs AI breeding. FOR SALE: 6 Hereford beef Gerald Polzin, Riverside Sim cattle w/ April born calves, Sell your livestock in The Land $1,200/each. 763-658-4269 Angus. 320-286-5805 with a line ad. 507-345-4523
S/N sinw/ ate tion orn E of 097
arm field ers, scs, 507-
ED ST ER AYVE NG NE 3
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ulls mp/ red
The Land for the best results! Call us at 507-345-4523.
Inspection Date: June 16th, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Bidding Closes: June 16th, 6:00 pm Pick-Up Date: June 17th, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Location: 70933 510th St, Fairfax, MN Skid Loader, Mower, Shop & Tools: Case 1835 skid loader w/ forks & bucket, 2339 hrs; ‘51 Terratrac GT 30, gas Continental 4 cyl engine; Allis-Chalmers WD 45, NF; Wheel Horse 724-z zero turn mower; International 59P shredder grinder; Yard Machines 8HP, 3-way system chipper; Spray Boss 14 gal ag sprayer; Brown & Sharpe Automatic Screw Machine Parts; Log Splitter Model W1200; North Star HK-1000 Pressure Washer; Coleman Powermate 10 HP generator; Neon Lights & Advertising: Neon lights include: George Strait Bud Light, Miller Lite Super Bowl XXVI Twin Cities, Miller Lite Timberwolves, tropical Bud Light & Budweiser, Miller Lite bowling, Miller Genuine Draft Light b-ball hoop, Miller High Life b-ball hoop; Lighted signs & clocks include: Enjoy Coke clock, Pepsi On-Draft, Schmidt, Miller Lite clocks, Killian's; 20+ tap handles; Boats, Guns & Misc: ‘79 Webcraft 20' boat w/ Mercury V8 engine & trailer; 16' fishing boat & trailer; marine fuel tanks; Mercury 75 O/B motor; Johnson Sea-Horse O/B motor; Minn Kota 65 & Warrior Motor-Guide trolling motors; Kenmore 80 Series dryer; vintage school desks; furniture; Over 300 lots! View complete list, terms & photos at: magesland.com
Gene & Laura Wright
Taking Consignment Information For: Online Consignment Auction
Auctioneer: Matt Mages 507-276-7002 Lic 52-20-018 Clerk: Mages Land Co & Auction Ser vice, LLC. All Items Sold “AS IS”. Not responsible for accidents. Terms: Buyers Premium does apply on all items.
Bidding ends: Tuesday, July 21st, 2020
magesland.com
55780 St Hwy 19, Winthrop, MN
Advertising deadline is June 19th, 2020
Matt
TIMED ONLINE FARM RETIREMENT
Auctioneer taking Consignments: Mages 507-276-7002 Lic. 52-20-018
14730 139TH AVE., PARK RAPIDS, MN 56470 LOCATION: From Park Rapids, MN, 2 miles south on US Hwy 71, 3/4 mile west on 150th St., 1/2 mile south on 139th Ave.
magesland.com
Harvest Equipment
TIMED ONLINE
OPENS: TUESDAY, JUNE 9 / CLOSES: THURSDAY, JUNE 18 | 7PM
2020
n w/ x31 belt 700 sgl airva097
Copy is 2.5 x 5.16 If you’re going to have an auction be sure to advertise it in
WEST FARGO, ND
2145 West Main Ave
OPENS: JUNE 19
CLOSES: MONDAY, JUNE 29 | 10AM (6) JOHN DEERE COMBINES
(5) SEMI TRACTORS
2020
oners, gas, Pic466
PAGE 21
PREVIEW: Friday, June 19 - Monday, June 29 LOADOUT: All items must be removed within one week of closing date INCLUDES: Combines, Concaves, Flex Draper Heads, Chopping Corn Heads & Flex Heads, Semi Tractors, Hopper Bottom Trailers, Rockpickers, Pickups (5) FLEX DRAPER HEADS & (3) CHOPPING CORN & FLEX HEADS
(8) HOPPER BOTTOM TRAILERS
SteffesGroup.com Steffes Group, Inc., 2000 Main Avenue East, West Fargo ND 58078
RON & TERRY HUBER
701.368.0007
or Brad Olstad at Steffes Group, 701.237.9173 or 701.238.0240
TERMS: All items sold as is where is. Payment of cash or check must be made sale day before removal of items. Statements made auction day take precedence over all advertising. $35 documentation fee applies to all titled vehicles. Titles will be mailed. Canadian buyers need a bank letter of credit to facilitate border transfer. Brad Olstad ND319
AUCTIONEER’S NOTE: After a lifetime of farming Tod & Renee have decided to retire. Most equipment purchased new and shedded. Equipment has had excellent maintenance. Equipment is ready for viewing. PREVIEW: Friday, June 12 from 9AM - 2PM or by appointment / LOADOUT: Friday, June 19 from 9AM - 4PM or by appointment
TRACTORS
2013 Caterpillar MT765D, 4,019 hrs. 2011 Caterpillar MT875C, 4,312 hrs. 2001 John Deere 7810, MFWD, 7,581 hrs. 1995 John Deere 8100, MFWD, 8,966 hrs. 2008 John Deere 8130, MFWD, 5,968 hrs. 2013 John Deere 8335R, 2,941.3 hrs. John Deere 3010D, 3,623 hrs. 1973 John Deere 4230, 2WD, 5,932 hrs.
TILLAGE EQUIPMENT
Case-IH 730B disc ripper 2015 John Deere 2730 disc ripper John Deere 3600 Summers coil packer 2015 John Deere 2623 John Deere 637 Wil-Rich 3400 Wil-Rich Quad X Alloway 2040 Alloway 2070 M&W 1925 Yetter 3541
GRAIN CARTS & GRAVITY BOXES
(2) Killbros 350, gravity box Kinze 1050 Sof-Trak Harvest Commander - grain cart
HOPPER BOTTOM TRAILERS
2015 Timpte hopper bottom trailer 2012 Timpte hopper bottom trailer 2003 Timpte hopper bottom trailer
BEAN EQUIPMENT
2017 Picket Twin Master F pull-type DAY CAB SEMIS edible bean combine COMBINE & HEADS (4) Bob Bean King 666 edible bean 2012 Case-IH 9230T, 2,412 sep. hrs., 2007 Freightliner Columbia, combine 3,142 engine hrs. 520,850 miles 2011 Case-IH 2162 flex draper 2009 Kenworth T800, 76,765 miles Elmers BCDBFSP 1630 edible 2012 John Deere 616C 1999 Kenworth T800, 350,015 miles bean cutter Picket crop divider PLANTING EQUIPMENT OTHER TRUCKS 2002 Picket 1268-B-E windrower John Deere 455, drill, 30’ 1984 White Volvo WCS64T, 529,915 miles 2010 Picket C8030-2B one step 2012 Montag C06B, air cart 1984 Mack MR686S, 44,903 miles bean lifter 2012 John Deere 1770NT, planter 1990 Chevrolet 1500, 154,878 miles 2009 Picket C8030-2B one step 1993 Ford F150 XLT bean lifter 1994 Ford F350 XLT
SELF-PROPELLED SPRAYER & SPREADER
2014 Apache AS1020 sprayer 1,456 hrs. 2009 Apache AS1210 dry fertilizer spreader, 2,026 hrs.
MANURE HANDLING EQUIPMENT
Houle 5250 tandem axle liquid manure tank
GPS & NAVIGATION EQUIPMENT
John Deere 2630, display, SF2, RTK John Deere 2630, display, SF2 John Deere 3000, receiver, RTK (2) John Deere 6000, receiver, RTK Navigator Automatic guidance system
ROUND BALER & TRAILER LIVESTOCK, HEADER & UTILITY TRAILERS / AND MORE!
SteffesGroup.com
Steffes Group, Inc., 24400 MN Hwy 22 S, Litchfield, MN 55355 | 320.693.9371
TOD & RENEE BECKER | TOD 218.255.0582
or Eric Gabrielson at Steffes Group, 320.693.9371 or 701.238.2570 Complete terms, lot listings and photos at SteffesGroup.com / Eric Gabrielson MN47-006
PAGE 22
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
Estate Farm
TIMED ONLINE
EDMORE, ND
9972 Hwy 17. From Edmore, ND, 2 miles west on Hwy. 17, south side of highway
OPENS: JUNE 15 2011 JOHN DEERE 9430
2020
CLOSES: TUESDAY, JUNE 23 | 12PM
PREVIEW: June 15 - June 23, from 8-5 LOUDOUT: June 23 - June 30. All items must be removed by June 30th. Call ahead for pickup if assistance is needed. INCLUDES: Tractors & Loader, GPS Equipment, Combine, Heads & Header Trailers, Windrower w/Head & Swather, Grain Cart, Air Seeder, Tillage Equipment, Sprayer, Semi Tractor & Box Trucks, Hopper Bottom & Reefer Trailers, Pickup, Grain Handling Equipment, Hopper Bins, Grain Drying, & Aeration Equipment, Blades, Other Equipment, ATV, Snowmobile & Trailer, Tanks, Parts, Tires & Farm Support Items.
2006 JOHN DEERE 9760STS
2014 JOHN DEERE 2210
2001 FRIEGHTLINER COLUMBIA & 2013 MAURER HOPPER
SteffesGroup.com Steffes Group, Inc., 2000 Main Avenue East, West Fargo ND 58078
BRYCE HOIME ESTATE
Kristen Hoime, PR
or Tadd Skaurud at Steffes Group, 701.237.9173, or 701.729.3644
TERMS: All items sold as is where is. Payment of cash or check must be made sale day before removal of items. Statements made auction day take precedence over all advertising. $35 documentation fee applies to all titled vehicles. Titles will be mailed. Canadian buyers need a bank letter of credit to facilitate border transfer. Scott Steffes ND81
Farm Retirement
TIMED ONLINE
BUFFALO, ND
3045 143rd Ave SE. From Absaraka, ND, 3-1/2 miles west on County Road 32, 1/2 mile south on 143rd Ave
OPENS: JUNE 12 2001 CASE-IH MX240
2020
CLOSES: FRIDAY, JUNE 19 | 10AM
PREVIEW: Friday, June 12 - Friday, June 19 from 8AM-5PM LOADOUT: Friday, June 19 - Friday, June 26 from 8AM - 5PM
INCLUDES: Tractors, GPS Equipment, Flex Draper Head & Header Trailer, Swather, Grain Carts, Planter & Conveyor, Air Seeder, Seed Tender, Tillage Equipment, Row Crop Equipment, Semi Tractors, Hopper Bottom Trailers, Trucks, Pickup, Sprayers, Chemical & Fertilizer Equipment, NH3 Equipment, Grain Handling Equipment, Hopper Bins & Granary, Scrapers, Other Equipment, Tanks, Shop Equipment, Parts & Farm Support Items, Automobile & Recreation
1991 CASE-IH 9270
2000 PETERBILT 379
2008 STOUGHTON TANDEM AXLE
SteffesGroup.com Steffes Group, Inc., 2000 Main Avenue East, West Fargo ND 58078
DOUG & DIANE MODEROW
Doug 701.371.8687
or Brad Olstad at Steffes Group, 701.237.9173 or 701.238.0240
TERMS: All items sold as is where is. Payment of cash or check must be made sale day before removal of items. Statements made auction day take precedence over all advertising. $35 documentation fee applies to all titled vehicles. Titles will be mailed. Canadian buyers need a bank letter of credit to facilitate border transfer. Brad Olstad ND319
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020 Cattle
Cattle
Swine
FOR SALE: Polled Black FOR SALE: Polled Limousin FOR SALE: Yorkshire, HampRegistered Simmental, Sim bulls, black or red, low birth shire, Duroc & Hamp/Duroc Angus bulls, top AI sires. weight, 40 yrs of raising Lim- boars, also gilts. Excellent Semen checked. Also, June ousin, John Goelz, Franklin selection. Raised outside. calving pairs. John Volz 507- MN 507-215-0309 Exc herd health. No PRSS. 520-4381 Delivery avail. 320-760-0365
THANK YOU FOR READING THE LAND!
THE LAND — MAY 29 /JUNE 5, 2020
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
Have you renewed your subscription to The Land?
Swine
mp-Spot, Duroc, Chester White, roc Boars & Gilts available. ent Monthly PRRS and PEDV. ide. Delivery available. Steve SS. Resler. 507-456-7746 65
Trucks & Trailers
WANTED
DAMAGED GRAIN STATEWIDE
FOR SALE: 2013 Great Dane Refer Trailer, 53’ x 102”, 14,600 hours on Carrier unit, under carriage air flow, nice shape. Must sell. $12,000 218-686-9589
We pay top dollar for your damaged grain. We are experienced handlers of your wet, dry, burnt and mixed grains. Trucks and vacs available. Immediate response anywhere.
Miscellaneous
CALL FOR A QUOTE TODAY
PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS New pumps & parts on hand. Call Minnesota’s largest distributor HJ Olson & Company 320-974-8990 Cell - 320-212-5336
PRUESS ELEV., INC. 1-800-828-6642
ADVERTISER LISTING Anderson Seeds ............................................................... 5
Fladeboe Land ........................................................ 20, 22 Greenwald Farm Center ................................................. 23
WANTED FREON R12. We pay CA$H. R12 R500 R11. Convenient. Certified professionals. 312-291-9169 RefrigerantFinders.com/ad
Kannegiesser Truck ......................................................... 9
Winpower Sales & Service Reliable Power Solutions Since 1925 PTO & automatic Emergency Electric Generators. New & Used Rich Opsata-Distributor 800-343-9376
Larson Brothers Implement ........................................... 17 Mages Auction Service .................................................. 21 Pruess Elevator Inc ....................................................... 23
Read the latest Ag news and information in THE LAND!
Renewal by Andersen .................................................... 16 • 5/8” drum roller wall thickness • 42” drum diameter wall thickness • 4”x8” frame tubing 3/8” thick • Auto fold
12’-60’ LONG ROLLERS
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.
Beck's Hybrids ................................................................ 1
REINKE IRRIGATION Sales & Service New & Used For your irrigation needs 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073
MANDAKO
PAGE 23
FOR THE BEST DEAL ORDER NOW!
GREENWALD FARM CENTER Greenwald, MN • 320-987-3177 14 miles So. of Sauk Centre
Rush River Steel & Trim ................................................. 3 Schweiss Doors ............................................................. 23 Smiths Mill Implement Inc ............................................ 19 South Central College ..................................................... 6 Steffes Group .................................................... 20, 21, 22
507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 PO Box 3169, Mankato, MN 56001 www.thelandonline.com
PAGE 24
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
THE LAND — MAY 29/JUNE 5, 2020
This week’s Back Roads is the work of The Land Correspondent Richard Siemers.
T
Patchwork, pies and plants
his summer would have been the sixth annual Tracy Area Gardens and Quilts Tour sponsored by the Catholic Church Women of St. Mary’s in Tracy. Because of the pandemic, quilters and gardeners and ordinary “lookers” will have to wait another year to again enjoy this creative combination. During the first four years of the tours, St. Mary’s CCW partnered with the Kiwanis Club of Tracy, and last year struck out on their own when Kiwanis moved on to other projects. Elise Lanoue coordinates this fundraising activity. “It all started in my neighbor’s beauty shop,” Lanoue said. “I was getting my hair done and the gal from the Kiwanis group was sitting there. We at St. Mary’s had thought about having a garden tour. All of a sudden the other gal mentioned that Kiwanis was thinking about having a garden tour.” Surprised that both groups had been considering the same project, they decided to team up their organizations. Then the ideas began to roll out. “My hairdresser is a quilter as well as a gardener,” Lanoue said. “She wondered what quilts would do outside.” They decided that would add interest, since many women quilt in the winter and garden in the summer. They weren’t done yet. St. Mary’s CCW has a pie project fundraiser. Every year the women get together and make 700 pies that they sell. So Lanoue suggested another twist. “I said, ‘How do you think it would be if we added a little to the cost
Tracy, Minn.
and served pie and ice cream as part of their ticket price?’” That idea also went over well. “That’s how it came to be … in the beauty shop,” Lanoue said. And it has turned out to be a success. One draw may be that they don’t confine it to the town of Tracy, but bill it as being the Tracy Area. In addition to in-town gardens, they feature country locations — including on Lake Shetek south of town. One year they featured gardens in Balaton (Balaton is part of the Tracy-Milroy-Balaton school district). Last year Garvin hosted the pie and ice cream with the garden spots all accessed from State Highway 59. The quilts are a combination of full quilts, lap quilts and quilted wall hangings. They are artfully displayed out in the yards and gardens — draped over benches, hanging from balconies or wires strung between trees. That’s the biggest part of the job — getting out in the morning to get all of the quilts placed. “You’ll notice how the quilts just pop and add so much color to a yard,” Lanoue said. “It’s just fun.” Gardens and quilts are a treat for the eye; pie and ice cream are a treat for the taste buds. Good things can come from all that beauty shop talk. Anyone know of a good project which has come from barber shop talk? Make a note that next year’s tour is scheduled for July 14. Check the Facebook page of Tracy, Minn. Area Garden Tour next July for details. The photos are of the 2019 tour. 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 your solar system will reliably support your family, farm, and business for decades to come, backed by the best warranties and support in the industry.
CONTACT US:
507.424.0001
INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM
SAVE MONEY BY GOING SOLAR! REAL RESULTS: YTD PERFORMANCE: 104% APRIL PERFORMANCE: 129% “Blue Horizon Energy did exactly what they said they would do and greatly exceeded my high expectations. The tax credits and grants provide great short term benefits. The energy cost savings provide great long term benefits. My advice is to go solar as soon as possible and start saving on your energy!” — Virgil: Mayer, MN (pictured above) 507.424.0001
INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM
© 2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC
REAL CUSTOMERS. REAL RESULTS. YTD PERFORMANCE: 102% APRIL PERFORMANCE: 115%
Results Matter.
“If I had to do it over again, I’d have done this sooner! Blue Horizon Energy’s expertise in agricultural and commercial operations and professionalism stood out through the entire process. Our system delivers more power than projected and BHE is very good about checking in to see how we’re doing.” — Adrian: Murdock, MN (pictured)
YTD PERFORMANCE: 106% APRIL PERFORMANCE: 114% “We chose Blue Horizon Energy because they are an experienced and innovative Minnesota company that understands Agriculture. The entire team with Blue Horizon Energy was incredibly positive and have gone above and beyond our high expectations. Their solar product has made a big difference.”
We see every project as the start of a longterm partnership. A commitment from us to you that your solar energy system is going to deliver the performance we projected, reliably, year after year.
Endurance Farms “After doing my research I decided to start by installing a smaller system on one of my grain bin sites. We watched the performance of that system for a year and were very, very satisfied. Then we decided to add two larger systems to our primary grain bin sites. We are very happy with our decision to go solar and believe this is the future of agriculture. Blue Horizon Energy did a great job on all of our projects and we highly recommend their services.” — Bill M. (Site 1 of 3 Pictured)
Our team makes hundreds of decisions, big and small, when designing a project to make sure it meets our high standards for reliability and performance. We don’t cut corners and if something is wrong we fix it and make it right - period. Not just because every project is backed by our industry-leading warranty, but because fixing problems and delivering on your word is just the right thing to do. That’s why our customers come back two, three, even four (and fourteen!) times, to work with us again and again. We’d be honored to work with you too.
— Barry: Benson, MN (pictured)
FIXED RACK, DUAL-AXIS TRACKER, OR ROOF MOUNT WHETHER YOU HAVE 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 OR BUSINESS’ SUCCESS IS OUR TOP PRIORITY.
CONTACT US TODAY. RECEIVE A FREE CONSULTATION TO DETERMINE HOW SOLAR ENERGY CAN BEST WORK FOR YOUR SPECIFIC SITE, CIRCUMSTANCES, AND NEEDS.
© 2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC
507.424.0001 INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM WWW.BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM
REAL CUSTOMERS. REAL RESULTS. YTD PERFORMANCE: 102% APRIL PERFORMANCE: 115%
Results Matter.
“If I had to do it over again, I’d have done this sooner! Blue Horizon Energy’s expertise in agricultural and commercial operations and professionalism stood out through the entire process. Our system delivers more power than projected and BHE is very good about checking in to see how we’re doing.” — Adrian: Murdock, MN (pictured)
YTD PERFORMANCE: 106% APRIL PERFORMANCE: 114% “We chose Blue Horizon Energy because they are an experienced and innovative Minnesota company that understands Agriculture. The entire team with Blue Horizon Energy was incredibly positive and have gone above and beyond our high expectations. Their solar product has made a big difference.”
We see every project as the start of a longterm partnership. A commitment from us to you that your solar energy system is going to deliver the performance we projected, reliably, year after year.
Endurance Farms “After doing my research I decided to start by installing a smaller system on one of my grain bin sites. We watched the performance of that system for a year and were very, very satisfied. Then we decided to add two larger systems to our primary grain bin sites. We are very happy with our decision to go solar and believe this is the future of agriculture. Blue Horizon Energy did a great job on all of our projects and we highly recommend their services.” — Bill M. (Site 1 of 3 Pictured)
Our team makes hundreds of decisions, big and small, when designing a project to make sure it meets our high standards for reliability and performance. We don’t cut corners and if something is wrong we fix it and make it right - period. Not just because every project is backed by our industry-leading warranty, but because fixing problems and delivering on your word is just the right thing to do. That’s why our customers come back two, three, even four (and fourteen!) times, to work with us again and again. We’d be honored to work with you too.
— Barry: Benson, MN (pictured)
FIXED RACK, DUAL-AXIS TRACKER, OR ROOF MOUNT WHETHER YOU HAVE 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 OR BUSINESS’ SUCCESS IS OUR TOP PRIORITY.
CONTACT US TODAY. RECEIVE A FREE CONSULTATION TO DETERMINE HOW SOLAR ENERGY CAN BEST WORK FOR YOUR SPECIFIC SITE, CIRCUMSTANCES, AND NEEDS.
© 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 your solar system will reliably support your family, farm, and business for decades to come, backed by the best warranties and support in the industry.
CONTACT US:
507.424.0001
INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM
SAVE MONEY BY GOING SOLAR! REAL RESULTS: YTD PERFORMANCE: 104% APRIL PERFORMANCE: 129% “Blue Horizon Energy did exactly what they said they would do and greatly exceeded my high expectations. The tax credits and grants provide great short term benefits. The energy cost savings provide great long term benefits. My advice is to go solar as soon as possible and start saving on your energy!” — Virgil: Mayer, MN (pictured above) 507.424.0001
INFO@BLUEHORIZONENERGY.COM
© 2020 BLUE HORIZON ENERGY LLC