Table Talk

Parenting the world really is a big deal

This past spring, farmers everywhere every year with no exceptions — unconwent to work planting the nation’s next ditionally. Even if they have to sacrifice. crop. When some in the world family roll

That doesn’t even sound like a big deal their eyes and say what they do is to most people. It happens every year. unjust, farmers imagine that family with But the big deal is, in the coronavirus days, grain producers forked out money they didn’t have to put in a crop they knew would give them no return on their investment. No return on investment TABLE TALK no food, fiber or fuel, and they dig their heels in and maintain the courage of their convictions. They have to remain strong and united. When farmers feel unappreciated means no guarantee that they can stay in By Karen Schwaller because they see high prices for meat in business. the meat case, but only receive pennies Other industry and commerce venues depend on agricultural products to keep them going, and with businesses shut down and the ag economy on its knees due to anorexic grain and livestock markets related to the coronavirus, it’s hard to per pound for that same meat, they often carry that feeling alone. But they keep producing grain to feed the animals which feed the world, because they see the bigger picture — the world family needs what they do. know when or how it will end. During tough years like coronavirus years, farmAgriculture parallels parenting in many ways. So much depends on agriculture — just as children depend on parents to keep them safe, warm and fed. ers as much as receive no payment for the important work they do in being caretakers for the world family. Some of the most important work in the world is done by volunteers — which is how farmers

Following are the top ten ways that the role of often feel. farmers compares to the role of parenting, as we imagine our nation’s farmers being parents and caretakers of the world: They sometimes would like to tell the world family those famous words that farm mothers have said for generations: that, in the larger sense, “…..if you

Farmers give abundantly to everyone in their don’t like it, supper’s over.” Trouble is, supper could world family — even to people who don’t necessarily be over for a long, long time. appreciate it. And even if they don’t have the money to give it. Just as parents keep the family going, farmers keep so many other people going in business, sup

Even when their world family doesn’t appreciate plying the basic needs of the production manufacwhat they give, they still plan on giving it every day, turing arena. In some way or another, most products

have roots that take them back to the farm. Farmers give to the world without expecting thanks or appreciation for all the work it took to get that box of cereal, those eggs, that glass of milk or orange juice, that hamburger, that pork chop or that chicken nugget meal to their tables. Farmers are so busy working that sometimes they don’t take the time they should to sit down, so to speak, and answer the many questions of their world family. And so the world family continues to tap them on the shoulder or tug on their shirt tails and ask questions. But they don’t always like the honest answers. Farmers embrace their world family — with all of their differences, similarities, flaws and imperfections; because theirs are the faces behind the reason they do this in the first place. There would be no other reason to withstand all the roller coaster emotions of farming if it were not for the world family who needs what they do. Some famous scholar in history once said, “When there is much food, there are many problems. When there is no food, there is only one problem.” We can apply that same thinking to families and parenting. Let’s all turn up the volume on appreciating our world parents — our farmers — and encourage them in their labors. Because what they do really is a big deal. Karen Schwaller brings “Table Talk” to The Land from her home near Milford, Iowa. She can be reached at kschwaller@evertek.net. v Country cooks have ‘no worries’ when satisfying appetites

FARMHOUSE KITCHEN, from pg. 5 before it. They have fresh fruits and vegetables ning meal was needed; but the meal had already been prepared. by simply stepping into the garden. Then too, creamy milk, good butter, meat and poultry can all be had right there on the farm.” One person wrote she has known of women whose health suffered from preparing so much food in stifling, non-air conditioned kitchens over a very hot wood stove. She thought the men should spend a few days in the kitchen to know what it was really like. The city woman also often found that when she phoned in her grocery order, she got so many inferior products or was short-weighted, she went to doing her own marketing. Which meant changing from a house dress to a street dress, walking one and a fourth mile to possibly wait in line at

Others felt it was privilege to send the threshthe market to make her purchases before walking crew with a full stomach and that the men ing back home with a heavy basket, according to had labored in hot, dusty fields. After all, in 1920, would most of the threshing crew have walked home? Photos by Renae B. Vander Schaaf Okra blossoms (left) are not just limited to good looks, while a tray of colorful tomatoes awaits processing. the article. All these women have legitimate opinions and concerns, and I do find them interesting. It will

The other debate was whether city or farm women in a short time everything is delivered to her back sure give me something to think about as I’m laborhad it easier. The farm wife had to prepare 1,095 door.” ing over my not-so-hot stove in my air-conditioned good, nutritional meals a year for hearty appetites. They worked hard — thus needing plenty of food for fuel. There’s another side to story, according to the city woman. “Cooking three meals a day for 365 days a year would not be one-fourth the trouble if I didn’t house. All the while thankful that storms, locusts and pestilence have avoided my garden thus far this year.

“City women have it ‘easy’,” one woman wrote. “No have to pamper the appetites of my family. But it’s Renae B. Vander Schaaf is an independent writer, cows to milk, no churning, no vegetables to gather, no wonder! Here we are cooped up without fresh air, author and speaker. Contact her at (605) 530-0017 no poultry to care for, no chickens to run down, sunshine or exercise. My country sister has no woror agripen@live.com. v dress, etc. She just steps down to the telephone and ries, for her family will eat any wholesome food set

Gerald and Connie Mulder awarded ‘Kernel Crown’

By DICK HAGEN

The Land Staff Writer Emeritus

OLIVIA, Minn. — The Honorary Title of “Kernel” was bestowed upon Gerald and Connie Mulder on Aug. 27 for dedicated service to the Minnesota Corn Growers Association.

This ‘crowning event’ occurred in Olivia, Minn. — the self-proclaimed Corn Capital of Minnesota — at the Cenex service station on busy U.S. Highway 212. The 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ceremony had a courtyard of spectators too. A special banner — courtesy of MCGA — read “Fuel Promotion Day” and helped draw the crowd. Cenex offered discounted fuel prices such as E85 fuel at $1.04 per gallon and E60 at $1.24.

For Gerald, now wheelchair bound, and wife Connie, it was a most surprising and enjoyable event. “Certainly didn’t expect this!” exclaimed Gerald. “Good to see some of my long-time Corn Grower Association friends too. We’ve been blessed in many ways through our work with corn growers and staff.”

Gerald has carved a distinguished history with the MCGA: nine years on the state board; 35 years as a duespaying member. The Mulders also have a reputation as prime membership recruiters for MCGA.

Relates Gerald, “Corn Growers Association accomplished many things over the years … various research projects — both with producers and University of Minnesota researchers — and so much more. I got very involved in membership recruitment. Yes, that took some time, but it was fun time, too! I feel proud about growing our membership. Plus yearly visits to the big National Corn Expo always added to the satisfaction.”

I had to ask if MCGA will ever catch up with membership of the Iowa Corn Growers. Gerald chuckles, “Every time we get close they just go out and buy more members.”

Like most corn growers in Minnesota (and Iowa), Gerald is frustrated by the ongoing battle with the Small Refineries Association for not including ethanolenriched fuels in their distribution to fuel distributors. “Hopefully, our National Corn Growers are making progress,” he said. “I’ve been out for a while so really don’t know the issues. But it does worry me that South Dakota effort into keeping Minnesota businesses in Minnesota. That means better relations with our colored people too … we’re all in this

Gerald is optimistic for 2020 crop yields. “I think 250 bushels will be the low; I think beets will make 40 tons. Yep, we’re having an incredible year. Thank the Lord. Renville County will continue support of activities and projects of the Minnesota Corn Growers. We’re the highest membership by far. I think Renville County will go over 1,000 members this year!”

On hand at the Cenex station to congratulate the Mulders was Brian Thalmann, a Plato, Minn. corn farmer, past MCGA President and now a board member of the National Corn Growers Association. “Grass roots is what separates us from many organizations,” Thalmann said. “That’s because our growing and very active membership is a defining attribute — especially when we are doing comment letters at our state capital and comment letters to our message — both with state legislators and members of Congress.”

So are corn growers’ political muscles still growing? Thalmann had this intriguing response: “I think we’ve always been able to punch above our belt … both because of issues we deal with and because of our people. There’s a real face to our organization: the face of the American Farmer. And as you’re seeing in today’s political spectrum, that carries a lot of weight.” Does that mean E-15 will soon be locked in as a nationwide fuel standard? Thalmann feels strongly on this issue and is much aware of the political constraints of the oil industry. “That continPhoto by Dick Hagen Connie and Gerald Mulder (center) were honored at a special event in Olivia, Minn. on Aug. 27. Participating in the presentation were (left to right): Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council member Doug Albin, MCGA Board MemberTim Waibel, Connie Mulder, MCGA Executive Director Adam Birr, MCGA Board was this past legislative session. Covid forced us to take a step back; but going into this next legislative session, this will be our number-one focus.” Member Harold Wolle, MCGA Board Member Brian Thalmann, and Renville Summed up MCGA Executive County Corn and Soybean Grower President Charlie Mathiowetz. Director Adam Birr, “How fitting here now advertises attracting Minnesota business firms to South Dakota. I think our Minnesota folks need to wake key Congressional people in D.C. To be able to say to these people that we’re representing thousands farmers across today honoring Gerald and Connie. Their resolve helped greatly in the success of our organization.” up and start putting some serious America brings some added power to Nice going, Kernel Mulder! v “Clamping down on law and order would be a good start. I think this lawMemorial ads in The Land less rioting is killing us. Some aren’t even scared of our cops anymore. Common sense has got to come back. Honor your friend or loved one with a special “In Memoriam” ad together.” In Memoriam

ues our number-one priority — just as it Sample ad shown here is actual size

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of Mankato, MN 01/01/1901 – 01/01/2020

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Palmer amaranth suspected in feed ingredients

Keep an eye out for Palmer amaranth hitching a ride into Minnesota via contaminated feed ingredients. Minnesota has at least one infestation in the state which arrived via contaminated cattle feed. The potential for this to happen again is high, especially when sourcing feed ingredients from areas where Palmer amaranth and other problematic weeds are more common.

Pay attention to weeds growing around livestock feeding areas, near manure storage areas, or in fields with a history of manure application. These are likely the areas where Palmer amaranth and other new weeds will show up first.

Photo submitted by Minnesota Department of Agriculture A recent Palmer amaranth infestiation in Minneosta is linked to contaminated cattle feed.

While weeds can find their way to your farm via wildlife and other uncontrollable factors, many new weed seeds are brought onto the farm from normal farm activities. Most of the new infestations of Palmer amaranth have been brought in via equipment (especially used equipment purchased from an area where Palmer amaranth is more common), contaminated seed, or contaminated feedstuffs. The amount of risk for contamination with weed seeds depends on the type of feed and where it originates. Feed that has been ground, pelletized, or ensiled is less concerning compared to less-processed feed ingredients.

Palmer amaranth is more common further south. Any feed ingredient which was produced where Palmer amaranth is present in fields is more likely to become contaminated. Cottonseed and sunflower screenings have been the source of several infestations in the Midwest. Other feed ingredients, including hay and animal bedding, produced where Palmer amaranth is more common are also concerns. Additionally, herbicide resistance is more common further south, meaning other weed seeds that may travel in with the feedstuffs, including waterhemp, may be herbicide resistant.

Any forage produced in weedy fields will likely contain weed seeds, whether harvested as dry hay or ensiled. Ensiling forages will help reduce the viability of weed seed. This is especially the case for grass weed seeds. Even hard-coated seeds like pigweed can be degraded during ensiling. Palmer amaranth seed viability can drop by 40-60 percent after one month of ensiling alfalfa or corn silage.

Don’t assume animal digestion will kill all of the seeds. Though it will reduce weed seed viability, feed

MDA urges landowners to scout for Palmer amaranth

ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is encouraging farmers and agronomists to scout fields now for the invasive weed Palmer amaranth.

Palmer amaranth is listed as a noxious weed in Minnesota and was first discovered in the state in 2016. All above and below ground parts of the plant must be destroyed, and it cannot be moved.

Left uncontrolled, a single female Palmer amaranth plant typically produces 100,000 to 500,000 seeds. It is resistant to multiple herbicides, can cause substantial yield losses, and greatly increase weed management costs in soybeans and corn.

Now is the time when Palmer amaranth is visible in agricultural fields. The MDA is asking farmers and agronomists to pull out any suspicious plants and report them to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Arrest the Pest line at (888) 545-6684 or arrest.the.pest@state.mn.us.

Palmer amaranth can be identified by the green leaves which are smooth and arranged in an alternate pattern that grows symmetrically around the stem. The leaves are oval to diamond or triangle shaped. The leaves of some Palmer amaranth plants have a whitish, V-shaped mark on them. Not all Palmer amaranth plants display this characteristic.

Palmer amaranth looks similar to our native pigweeds such as waterhemp (tuberculatus and A. rudis), Powell’s amaranth (A. powellii), and redroot and smooth pigweeds (A. retroflexus and A. hybridus, respectively). Redroot and smooth pigweeds have fine hairs on their stems and leaves. Palmer amaranth and waterhemp do not have these hairs. The petiole (stalk connecting a leaf to the stem) is longer than the length of the leaf. For waterhemp, the petiole will be only half the length of the leaf. Seedhead spikes on female Palmer amaranth plants are much taller (up to three feet long) and pricklier than waterhemp or redroot and smooth pigweed spikes.

This article was submitted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. v ing contaminated feed to livestock will not eliminate all Palmer amaranth seed. Grass and soft-coated broadleaf seeds are more easily destroyed in digestion than hard-coated seeds like Palmer amaranth. In ruminants like cattle, nearly 30 percent of amaranth seed survives digestion. The gizzard digestive system of poultry is highly effective at destroying weed seeds. For instance, only 3.5 percent of Palmer amaranth seeds fed to ducks were recovered and found viable.

Internal heat generated by properly composted manure will kill most weed seeds — even Palmer amaranth. Aged manure is not composted manure. Weed seeds are killed in composted manure due to warm temperatures ( greatere than 140 F) for several days. In typical on-farm composting sites, weed seed viability is typically reduced by more than 90 percent. This percentage is even higher in the bestmanaged compost sites.

More information on Palmer amaranth in manure, visit https://blog-crop-news.extension.umn. edu/2019/06/palmer-amaranth-in-manure-what-canyou.html.

Palmer amaranth is a highly competitive pigweed closely related to waterhemp. Like waterhemp, Palmer amaranth emerges throughout the growing season, and can grow 2-3 inches per day, causing large yield reductions if it goes uncontrolled. Control is often challenging, as Palmer amaranth has resistance to many different herbicides. Palmer amaranth is on Minnesota’s prohibited noxious weed eradicate list. For more information and tips on identifying this weed, visit https://extension.umn.edu/annual-broadleaf-weeds/preventing-palmer-amaranth-minnesota.

If you suspect Palmer amaranth on your farm, please contact one of the parties listed below.

Arrest the Pest — web: http://www.mda.state.mn. us/plants-insects/arrest-pest; email: arrest.the.pest@ state.mn.us; phone: (888) 545-6684.

Denise Theide, Minnesota Department of Agriculture — email: Densie.Theide@state.mn.us; phone: (651) 201-6531

Anthony Cortilet, Minnesota Department of Agriculture — email: Anthony.Cortilet@state.mn.us; phone: (651) 201-6538

Shane Blair, Minnesota Department of Agriculture — email: Shane.Blair@state.mn.us; phone: (507) 884- 2116

Bruce Potter, University of Minnesota Extension — email: bpotter@umn.edu.

This article was submitted by Nathan Drewitz, Jared Goplen, Adam Austing, and Chryseis Modderman, University of Minnesota Extension. v

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