THE LAND ~ April 9, 2021 ~ Northern Edition

“Since 1976, Where Farm and Family Meet”

© 2021

418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001 • (800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com • theland@TheLandOnline.com

We salute

April 2, 2021 April 9, 2021

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

1 Peter 1:3

FFA

Kristin Kveno catches up with Minnesota’s 1996 state officers

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THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

FFA continues to open doors 418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56001 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XL ❖ No. 7 28 pages, 1 section plus supplements

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Cover photo courtesy of Minnesota FFA alumni

COLUMNS Opinion Farm and Food File The Bookworm Sez Table Talk From My Farmhouse Kitchen Mielke Market Weekly Marketing Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads

2-5 4 6 7 8 16 19-20 22-27 27 28

STAFF

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Swift. While those names are recognizGrowing up in Apple Valley, Minn., FFA able to many, the organization is proud wasn’t available at my school. When I that it offers opportunities in so many went to college at North Dakota State different arenas, to so many students.

University, I suddenly felt left out that I wasn’t in FFA in high school as it seemed From interviewing many past state like I was definitely in the minority. For officers, I’ve gotten to hear from them on four years I heard about all the wonderhow FFA open doors to so many experiful experiences my college friends had ences they never dreamed they’d have during their time in the organization. I the opportunity to be a part of. Having LAND MINDS learned all about the leadership opportuthose leadership responsibilities, while nities, travel adventures and the strong

By Kristin Kveno daunting, seemed to have taught these friendships they forged from being a past officers they have the skills to part of FFA. handle those challenges with grit and determination.

I married an FFA alum who still reflects fondly on his time in the I want to say a big thank you to the organization. While I never had a past state officers for allowing me the chance to be part of FFA, getting to opportunity to interview them and interview former state officers 25 share their stories with The Land years after they took office is such a readers. They fit me into their busy wonderful part of my job. Every sinlives. I even talked to one multi-taskgle year I’m in awe of what these ing former officer who was able to individuals accomplished in leaderregale stories from 25 years ago all ship roles all while juggling being in while doing some shopping at Costco. college. The after-FFA accomplishI’ve learned so much about the culments are pretty darn impressive as ture of FFA — that desire to not only well. It’s fun to hear where life has better themselves but better the comtaken them, what drives them, and munity in which they live. While I what qualities they gained during never got to experience FFA firsttheir time in FFA. hand, hearing all these wonderful Currently there are 76,000 stuexperiences from former state officers dents in FFA and 8,700 chapters makes me certainly glad such a wellacross all 50 states and Puerto Rico. These members respected and vital student organization still exists are in good company and the list of notable alumni today. is impressive. The 39th president of the United Kristin Kveno is the staff writer of The Land. She States and Noble Peace Prize recipient, Jimmy may be reached at kkveno@TheLandOnline.com. v Carter, was a member of FFA; as was professional athlete Bo Jackson and singing sensation Taylor

OPINION

wants to hear from you!

Send your letters to: Editor, The Land 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001 e-mail: editor@thelandonline.com All letters must be signed and accompanied by a phone number (not for publication) to verify authenticity.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

9 — GreenSeam announces results of its annual State of Ag survey.

15 — Buffalo Lake farmer garners national attention for soil health efforts.

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

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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Life on the Farm: Readers’ Photos

Pam Krzmarzick took this photo of a colorful, billowy sunset outside of Sleepy Eye, Minn.

Al Batt of Hartland, Minn. sent these photos of our feathered friends recently. He said the tufts of lengthened feathers on the head of this great horned owl (right) are called plumicorns.

Below, this robin’s feathers are all fluffed out to protect from winter’s chill.

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THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

Big Agbiz’s big ‘price-fixing’ settlements need big fix In a now too-common “price fixing in broiler story in U.S agriculture, chicken parts,” reportArcher Daniels Midland ed Agriculture.com. last month agreed to pay • In mid-January 2021, farmers $45 million to setTyson Foods, Inc. “reached tle what the March 13 Wall an agreement in the broiler Street Journal described as chicken antitrust civil price “price-fixing allegations fixing litigation brought leveled at its peanut FARM & FOOD FILE against the company, as processing division.” well as many other poultry

By Alan Guebert While $45 million is, processors, to pay $221.5 indeed, peanuts to ADM (its million,” estimated 2020 revenue will top $65 according billion) this isn’t the first time the Chicago-based company has faced to Meat+Poultry.com. market manipulation charges. In the • One of those other processors was late 1990’s, ADM spent years and mil- (again) Pilgrim’s Pride which (again) lions on criminal and civil price-fixing “agreed to pay $75 million on Jan. 11. settlements.

Both companies did not admit liability But ADM isn’t the only ag master of as part of the settlements.” the universe to settle recent civil lawAnd while all this lawyerly rocksuits over alleged market irregularipicking with the chicken giants was ties. For example: occurring in 2020, “The Justice • In October 2020, Brazilian-owned Department… deepen(ed) federal antiPilgrim’s Pride Corp., the nation’s sec- trust scrutiny of the $213 billion U.S ond-largest poultry processor, agreed meat industry, following complaints to pay $110.5 million to settle U.S. from farmers and meat buyers about Justice Department allegations of industry pricing practices,” noted

OPINION

the Wall Street Journal last June 5.

Those being scrutinized were the red meat kings: “The Department recently issued civil subpoenas to… JBS USA Holding Inc. [the majority owner of Pilgrim’s Pride Corp., of course,] Tyson Foods. Inc., Cargill Inc., and National Beef Packing Co…” Despite all this new movement on price fixing, there’s nothing new about price fixing. The roots of U.S. antitrust law, after all, reach back to the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 and the Clayton Antitrust Act of 1914.

What is new, however, is that cooperation and coordination is more commonplace among competitors that, counter intuitively, make it more difficult for the government to police.

Peter Carstensen, a professor emeritus at the University of Wisconsin law school and senior fellow at the American Antitrust Institute, examined the recent flood of ag class action settlements in a March 8 post for ProMarket, at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business.

What he found was a company “called AgriStats” that “about a decade ago” began to collect “detailed information” from almost every processor “about their ongoing business activities and then distributed that information to all the participating processors. Hence, everyone knew what everyone else was doing.”

Clearly, this was an “information exchange system [that] seriously harmed the competitive process,” right?

Yes, notes Carstensen, a leading scholar in ag antitrust, “But,” he adds, “antitrust law has failed to connect those dots doctrinally.” And, worse, “The current state of antitrust law makes direct challenges to information exchanges [like AgriStats] difficult.”

That is even more worrisome given Big Agbiz’s continued consolidation into critical aspects of almost every farm and food sector like hogs, poultry, beef, vegetables and, now, row crops.

That’s exactly what 12,000 peanut farmers asserted in the ADM case: that “ADM’s Golden Peanut division coordinated with two other processors to report faulty supply and pricing data, keeping prices for farmers low for the past six years,” reported the Journal.

It, and its two other competitors denied any wrongdoing; but all three (who handle virtually every peanut in the U.S.) paid to end the suits: ADM $45 million; the other two, Birdsong Peanuts and Olam International, paid a collective $58 million.

That, of course, is nothing to the peanut giants. In fact, when taken as part of the entire pay-without-admitting-guilt strategy used by Big Agbiz in 2020-21, “the settlements to date,” writes Carstensen, “represent barely one percent of a single year’s sales.”

Antitrust reform is in the air, however. More on that later.

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

Rob-See-Co announces NorthStar acquisition ELKHORN, Neb. — Rob-See-Co, an independent seed company located in Elkhorn, Neb. acquired NorthStar Genetics, a Minnesota-based seed company. The acquisition enables Rob-SeeCo to expand in the soybean market and provide its expertise in the corn market to NorthStar Genetics Dealers and growers.

Rob-See-Co expects to work with all of NorthStar Genetics’ dealers and will continue to sell NorthStar Genetics

brands through the 2021 growing season. In 2022, the company plans to sell solely Innotech brand soybeans, but continue to sell NorthStar Genetics corn products along with Rob-See-Co corn products. The company will operate out of Rob-See-Co’s headquarters in Elkhorn.

To learn more about Rob-See-Co, visit www.robseeco.com.

This article was submitted by RobSee-Co. v

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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Dairy farmers: It may be time to change bloc voting law

By BRAD RACH Director, National Farmers’ Dairy Division How many votes could represent the majority of America’s dairy farmers in a hearing concerning federal dairy regulations? The correct answer is 10. How can that be, you ask?

To understand what’s going on, you need to know two things. The first is that more than half of America’s licensed dairy farmers belonged to one of the top 10 dairy cooperatives in 2019. The second is something called bloc voting, which allows cooperative managers to vote on behalf of all their members. It was authorized by the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937.

If you want to think about that law, it might help you to have some (early) 20th century dairy farm data in mind. Here are some highlights: Cows were being milked on over 5 million farms.

An average farm had five cows.

California, a state known for having larger-thanaverage dairy farms, averaged 10 cows per farm.

Fast forward to today. The corresponding highlights are: Licensed dairy farms tallied up to 34,187 in 2019.

Average-sized dairy farms in the United States today have close to 200 cows.

Most dairy farms in the United States have fewer than 200 cows. On the other extreme, the 2017 Census of Agriculture reported 714 dairies with at least 2,500 cows. Of those dairies, 189 had over 5,000 cows.

The Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937 established the authority of the executive branch, acting through the Secretary of Agriculture, to mandate marketing orders and promotion programs on behalf of farmers. Rules were set in place for farmers to vote their acceptance or rejection of the executive actions. All farmers are covered in the act, but I am only referring to dairy farmers here.

While I generally favor marketing orders for dairy farmers, the bloc voting provision has outlived any usefulness it may have once had. In 1937, there were millions of farmers, none having access to 21st century communications methods.

Furthermore, dairy cooperatives were generally small and local, so the interests of one member farmer were not likely very different from those of another. Efficiency, if nothing else, could be used to justify bloc voting.

Contrast this with today when dairy farm numbers are measured by the thousands rather than the millions. The communications options available to today’s dairy farmers far exceed those of the 1930s. Add to that the sea change in cooperative size and influence — the largest cooperatives have thousands of members, representing a range of farm sizes and geographic locations that make fair repre-

sentation with a single vote impossible.

The time has arrived to amend the act so all executive branch decisions must be approved in a one farmer, one vote manner by all dairy farmers whose livelihood is affected by the decision.

OPINION

The Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937 passed during a time when over 16 million horses and mules still powered much of agriculture’s field work. We need to bring voting provisions of the act more in line with the agricultural system that feeds us in the 21st century. v

Letter: Church showed lack of foresight To the Editor, The Back Roads article of March 12, 2021 on “Budejovice” left me feeling very sad. What a beautiful story of a gentleman’s willingness and ability to restore the 1868 church! It was apparent that he was energized physically and mentally — his cancer went into remission.

The lack of foresight of the Holy Redeemer trustees to see the need for insuring the building left a serious imbalance of purpose in their thinking. All of the donation, besides the man’s health, seemed to have met with a petty lack of thought.

Helen Schultz Canby, Minn.

Letter: Hagen is a concerned citizen To the Editor, Reading the opinion letter from Mr. Tommy Stiles (“Take Mr. Hagen’s Pen,” March 5/March 12) was quite the eye-opening experience. I want to thank The Land for having the courage to print it. If the average American (democrat or republican) ever wondered what we are up against, his letter erases all doubt. I read Dick Hagen’s article from Jan. 29 again because I thought it was a respectable opinion, an accurate, historical look into how all prosperous civilizations have slowly but surely deteriorated and collapsed. I read slowly, looking for the anger Mr. Stiles accused him of. Nothing. I looked for division and hatred throughout Dick’s article. They should be obvious, Mr. Stiles referenced them not once, but twice. It had to be there, an old (again referenced twice) man like Mr. Hagen is surely incapable of changing his ways at his age. Just one problem: I couldn’t find those things in Dick’s words.

Instead I found a citizen concerned with the socialist direction this country is taking with little regard to the hard lessons of history.

Then I read Mr. Stiles’ letter again with the same evaluation. To do so is a chilling look into what America is facing. His disagrees with Dick Hagen, which is fine, manages one respectable sentence, then launches a personal assault on Dick’s character, career and all who agree with him. When faced with an opinion he doesn’t like, Mr. Stiles doesn’t present a civilized dialog, instead he attacked and asked to have Dick Hagen silenced.

Please wake up. This is the power of socialism staring all Americans in the face.

Tom Haak Wood Lake, Minn.

Farm safety video available from Extension ROCHESTER, Minn. — In partnership with American Family Insurance, the University of Minnesota Farm Safety and Health Team is launching a new series of farm safety videos. The purpose of this project is to share crucial farm safety messages and reminders with the agricultural community.

The videos can be used for many audiences including youth, farmers, agriculturalists, and health professionals. “This is a great opportunity for us to share safety and health messages more widely,” said Emily Krekelberg, Extension Educator for Farm Safety and Health. “Especially right now, when we are coming up on the busy spring planting season and are unable to do safety training face-to-face.”

The videos are all shorter than five minutes. They provide a mix of information, demonstration, and discussion. The first video in the series covers roadway safety and includes information about pre-trip inspections, equipment for roadway safety, and safe driving habits. The video can be found at https://z. umn.edu/AgRoadwaySafetyVideo.

For more resources visit extension.umn.edu/farmsafety and follow the Extension Farm Safety and Health Team on Twitter @UMNFarmSafety.

This article was submitted by Emily Krekelberg, University of Minnesota Extension. v

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THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

This book helps readers plan ahead for the unexpected It’d be just your luck.

“In Case You Get Hit by a Bus: How to Organize Your Life Now You’re outside, enjoying a for When You’re Not Around Later” nice sunny day and, like

by Abby Schneiderman and Adam Seifer with Gene Newman Wile E. Coyote, a piano falls c.2021, Workman Publishing on your head. Or a car crashes through the wall $17.95 / $23.95 Canada onto your bed. Or tree244 pages climbing wasn’t such a good idea. Stuff happens. And “In THE BOOKWORM stress. Start by looking for tors. While Case You Get Hit by a Bus” SEZ the 15 documents you’ll you’re doing

by Abby Schneiderman and

By Terri Schlichenmeyer need most often, scan them, this, you’ll ineviAdam Seifer, with Gene and decide on the most con- tably think Newman, helps your family venient, best place to store them (hint: about the kids to know what to do. it’s probably not in a safe deposit box). and your pets, Why is it that the document you need so keep a runThen think hard. Include all your is never where it’s supposed to be? most important passwords, safe combi- ning list of don’t-forgets for them, too.

That’s bad for you, so imagine if a nations, and 4-digit codes in your docDocument your doctors, insurance loved one was looking for that docuumentation. You want to make it as policies, and benefits you’re entitled to ment in panic mode. That’s the kind of easy as possible for a loved one to find receive. Note your Power of Attorney thing Schneiderman and Seifer are any appropriate information in an (POA) and medical POA. Name an trying to stave off in this book. As the emergency. executor. If you’re a business owner, founders of Everplans, they know that Remembering your time-limit, mind- make a succession plan. And finally, saving all your information in one walk yourself through your home and remove the skeletons from your closet place is “liberating” and comforting. while you can. write down anything someone might And it’s not that hard to do... need to know: alarm codes, mainteOne way or another, you’ll be glad First, in every step inside this book, nance schedules, garbage day, and the you did. give yourself ten minutes and don’t names and contacts for repair contracEventually.

Eventually, you’ll be glad you did everything that’s inside this book; but doing so will take a year’s worth of 10-minute sessions. Indeed, “In Case You Get Hit by a Bus” doesn’t overlook any part of American life, in an effort to ensure that your anxiety is eased some.

Schneiderman, Seifer and Newman do a completely thorough job with that, and they admit up-front that not everything is mandatory. This lends a sense of “ahhhhhhh” right away. If you don’t have Document X, don’t sweat.

Still, hints on how to find the top 15 most-needed docs and a few more worksheets might’ve been nice.

Be scared by reading “The Big CloseOut.” Be comforted by skipping directly to tips on memory-making. Use what you need here. Flexibility is key to Everplans’ plans and to this book, and you know how many “what-ifs” you’ve thought about in the past year.

Now, you’ll always think about them.

And since you’ll need a book like “If You Get Hit by a Bus,” you’re in luck.

Look for the reviewed book at a bookstore or a library near you. v

Spring seminar set for April 15 Soil testing for lawn, garden ST. CLOUD, Minn. — Join the Benton County Extension Master Gardeners for the annual Spring Seminar on April 15 at 7:00 pm. This session will take place via Zoom.

The featured speakers will be Monika Chandler and Mari Hardel from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Noxious Weed Specialist team. The evening will include information on what invasive plants are, how they are introduced and thrive in the environ-

ment, and what we can do to be a part of the solution to minimize the spread of invasive species. There will be time to ask questions.

This seminar is free and open to the public. You must register in advance to receive the link to join. To register you can visit https://z.umn.edu/ SpringSeminar or call (320) 255-6169.

This article was submitted by University of Minnesota Extension. v

Rose Education Day April 24 ST. CLOUD, Minn. — Join the Stearns County Rose Society and the Stearns County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers for their annual Rose Education Day on April 24 from 9:00 a.m. – noon. This session will take place via Zoom.

Jim Beardsley will present “Chemical Safety for the Home Gardener” which will include information on integrated pest management, pesticides for specific rose pests and diseases, safe chemical use and storage, personal protective equipment, and reading pesticide labels.

“Where Do Modern Roses Come From?” a presentation by Dr. David Zlesak, will cover the history of polyantha, floribunda and hybrid tea roses as it relates to many of the newer disease resistant roses on the market today.

This seminar is free. To register, visit https://z.umn.edu/RoseEd or call (320) 255-6169. For questions or assistance with registration, email Katie Drewitz at wins0115@umn.edu.

This article was submitted by University of Minnesota Extension. v

ST. CLOUD, Minn. — As the temperatures continue to warm and frost comes out of the ground, one of the first things on your to-do list might be getting a soil test done. Sending a sample of your soil to a qualified lab can remove the guesswork out of fertilizer recommendations. Excess fertilizer can result in undesired vegetative versus fruit production growth and contribute to pollution in the environment.

Results of the soil test include data on soil fertility, pH, and organic matter.

In addition, fertilizer recommendations are provided according to the soil test data. A standard test from the University of Minnesota Soil Testing Laboratory will include soil texture, organic matter, phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and pH. The most common fertilizer used for a fertility program is nitrogen. Nitrogen (N) is not commonly included with the test results because of its mobile and ever-changing chemical forms in the soil. However, recommendations are given based on lawn care practices, plant or crops being

grown as indicated on the form.

More than one sample may need to be collected and analyzed in your yard and garden. For example, one sample from your vegetable garden and a second from your lawn should be collected.

The soil test form provides instructions on how to collect a sample.

The University of Minnesota Soil Testing Laboratory completes soil analysis for farm or for home and garden. A local private lab may also be an option for you.

The standard soil test from the University of Minnesota will cost $17.

Additional testing can be added for small fees but starting with the basic test is usually recommended.

Most county Extension offices have the submission forms and soil testing bags. The information can also be found at http://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/testing-services/lawn-garden.

This article was submitted by Katie Drewitz, University of Minnesota Extension. v

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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Covid and the Clay County Fair: Rising from the ashes Jeremy Parsons looked out the window ment seemed surreal even to Parsons, into the gray skies on the other side. His who has been in the fair industry literalexpression told the story his staff and ly all of his life. extended members of his board of direcA glance around the room mirrored the tors were waiting to hear. The air was value of the fair in the eyes of those who thick with wonder … and trepidation. sweat and toil all year to make it happen.

The worst of it was over for Parsons, The eyes of board members were fixed on who manages the Clay County Fair in Parsons and what he had to say. Paid fair Spencer. Dubbed the “World’s Greatest staff members wiped away tears, and TABLE TALK County Fair,” the Clay County Fair drew most everyone began a grieving process. an annual attendance of more than

By Karen Schwaller “Surreal” was the word of the day, and 300,000. Parsons and his executive board emotions ran the gamut. had made the decision to postpone the It was like the fair had died.

2020 fair because of a global pandemic.

“This hasn’t happened since the days of WWII,” Now, with a heavy heart, he had to tell the world. said the board chairman. “Covid-19 is our war.”

Board members and staff filed into the room quiBoard members had met for weeks before this etly; maybe a little nervously. All had shared input announcement, gathering input, sharing thoughts, in some form to help Parsons and his executive and imagining the world with no Clay County Fair. board decide what to do.

The facts were hard to ignore. There would be serious Finally, the chairman of the board stood up, financial fallout … for the fair itself, for the city and Parsons seated next to him, and began to read a county, local and area businesses, and for the busiscripted announcement, so as to be very clear. But nesses who would have set up shop at the fair — his emotions would swallow him before he could say depending on it for some solid income. And for others the words; and that told those in the room all they depending on fair income, too. needed to know.

People — both paid and unpaid — were afraid to An eerie silence filled the room before Parsons come and do the work of the fair for fear of contracttook over, himself among those grieving a decision ing Covid-19. Who would make sure all of the public they never imagined having to make. The announce- health and CDC guidelines were being followed in

For more news briefs, visit the “Nuts and Bolts” section at www.TheLandOnline.com

Compeer provides grants for rural schools SUN PRAIRIE, Wis. — The COVID-19 pandemic posed a variety of challenges to rural schools and their communities. Compeer Financial, a memberowned farm credit cooperative based in the upper Midwest, is partnering with the Rural Schools Collaborative to present the Rural Schools Innovation Grants program. The goal of the program is to support exemplary programs developed by rural schools during the pandemic.

“This pandemic has resulted in unprecedented hardships for rural schools and their communities.

However, challenges present opportunities and it has been heartening to observe the creativity, enthusiasm and commitment of rural teachers and school leaders in so many of our communities,” said Gary Funk, director of Rural Schools Collaborative. “The Rural Schools Innovation Grant will advance programs that are ingenious, effective and sustainable.

RSC is proud to partner with the Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America on this worthy initiative.”

Grants of up to $10,000 per school district are available through this one-time program. Rural public schools in Compeer Financial’s 144-county territory in parts of Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin are eligible to apply. A total of $150,000 is available for this grant program.

“Innovation is an idea that turns into a practical reality,” said John Monson, chief mission and marketing officer at Compeer Financial. “During the pandemic, faculty and staff at rural schools turned ideas into reality to continue to serve their students and communities. Some of those new ideas will continue to work well into the future. We hope to champion this innovation in our rural communities.”

Grant applications will be accepted to May 15.

Visit compeer.com/giving-back for more information and to apply.

This article was submitted by Compeer Financial.v

every building and all throughout the fairgrounds?

The cost of the extra sanitation procedures alone was staggering to a county fair budget … and there were so many other uncertainties. The fair seemed to be crumbling all around them.

Board members wondered if, once public health procedures were put into place, people would recognize the fair as they knew it. Would it live up to its name as the “World’s Greatest County Fair?” Would people return? Would first-time attendees ever come back? How much financial risk was the fair board willing to take if attendance numbers were low? Its very foundation seemed shaky at best.

To have no fair in 2020 would be unprecedented — almost unthinkable.

But they had to think about it.

At the meeting of the 10-member executive committee, when the decision was made to postpone the fair, Parsons found and read the minutes from the fair board meeting of the 1940s WWII era, which was the last time the fair had been called off. It was a world war that stopped the fair then; this time it was a microscopic virus. But the result was the same.

2020 revealed the great value of the Clay County Fair as individuals and businesses rallied around the “Save the Fair” campaign. And they did so with good reason. The fair is a living, breathing entity, and the thought of that fair with no pulse was unimaginable.

The people said farewell to the long-standing chuckwagon races at the 2019 Clay County Fair, then the 2020 edition was postponed altogether.

The difference is, the chuckwagon races entered quietly into the annals of fair history forever. But the fair itself will rise from the ashes of 2020 and return stronger than before.

We know now as a people that nothing is a ‘given.’

Not even the Clay County Fair.

But taking it for granted is one more thing that 2020 took away from us.

And we are grateful.

Karen Schwaller brings “Table Talk” to The Land from her home near Milford, Iowa. She can be reached at kschwaller@evertek.net. v

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THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

A messy apron might just be the sign of a good meal A month ago I cut an apron out from an for the glamour girl rather than the old dress that was looking a bit worn, but farmer’s wife who cooks up plenty of too good to throw away. It may have been mashed potatoes and gravy. a frugal moment on my part, but keep I recently saw the most beautiful handthat under your hat, please. made apron. It must have only been worn Because there are many things my when the neighbor ladies came over to farmer calls me, but frugal and economitea. On the sheer white material were cal minded are definitely not among two embroidered girls wearing sunbonthem. And I certainly don’t want him to nets. The girls were probably twelve FROM MY go into shock or worry that there is someinches tall. Another neat feature about FARMHOUSE thing desperately wrong with me. the apron was that the bonnets were KITCHEN made from material. The designer fashSo it goes, practically every single day I

By Renae B. ioned them to serve as the pockets. So put a clean apron on over my dress. It is Vander Schaaf sweet! necessary to have a half dozen of those handy fashion items. At the beginning of the year, It might be impractical for use on an everyday one apron had to be tossed into the fire for real. It basis, but it sure was perfect for very special occahad two major faults: the fabric was wearing thin sions. and the holes were no longer protecting my clothing.

This time I went with a vintage style. It is one I It was time for a new addition to my apron wardrobe. remember my Grandma Reemtsma wearing. My Aprons are fun to make. The difficult part is fabric is floral and the apron is made up of pieces choosing the pattern as there are so many ideas outlined with pink binding. some that are even practical. Others are not; more Although I didn’t have the problem this time, selecting the material can also be difficult. Have you been to a fabric store lately? They are just bursting at the seams with material in designs that would make cooking a delight.

Cooking is messy and I do get covered grease and flour quite early in the day. So wearing an apron is a must here. Also it adds to the illusion that the food served here might taste good. Afterall appearances do make a difference on what we think.

Therefore, my simple thinking tells me that if I dress for the part of the cook, perhaps it will appear that I know what I am doing just a wee bit especially if I have several cookbooks setting around that were carefully chosen from the hundred cookbooks on the kitchen shelf. Now wouldn’t that give everyone the idea that the meal was well planned, and

concocted to taste fabulous?

Sorry, that doesn’t always happen, that’s why I keep a good supply of bread and cheese in this farmhouse.

The reality is, it’s a pleasure to prepare three meals a day even if they don’t always turn out as any of us expected or desired. Because the actual sitting down to eat breakfast, dinner and supper together provides time to talk with each other whilst partaking of food that our physical bodies need.

It is also a good time to thank God for the food and other blessings He has so graciously bestowed.

After each meal, it’s only natural that we nourish our souls too, by reading a portion of scripture.

Because we know ‘that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth man live.’

This is just a portion of the words found in Deuteronomy Chapter Eight.

Renae B. Vander Schaaf is an independent writer, author and speaker.

Contact her at (605) 530-0017 or agripen@live.com. v

New data shows what Iowans charge, pay for custom farming AMES, Iowa — Many Iowa farmers continue to hire at least some of their fieldwork and livestock work to be done by others, and new data provides ranges and averages of what is being paid.

The “2021 Iowa Farm Custom Rate Survey,” conducted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, covers the amounts charged and paid for common crop and livestock services. Tillage, planting, harvesting, manure hauling and livestock transportation are all included, along with dozens of other tasks and data points.

Compared to last year, most custom rates saw a decline except for the cost of farm labor, according to Alejandro Plastina, associate professor in economics and extension economist at Iowa State University.

Plastina, sent 361 surveys via the U.S. Postal Service in February and 198 by email. The results were

based on 118 responses and 3,785 custom rates submitted.

Fourteen percent of the respondents perform custom work, 16 percent hire work done, 45 percent indicated doing both and 25 percent did not indicate whether they perform or hire custom work.

The cost of combining corn ranged from $22 to $45 per acre, with an average of $35.10 per acre. The cost of combining soybeans ranged from $22 to $46 per acre, with an average of $34.20.

The cost to mow hay ranged from $8 to $15 per acre, with an average of $11.35 per acre. The average

cost for baling small square bales was $.59 per bale, $9.35 for large square bales, $10.80 for large round bales without wrapping, and $13.20 for large round bales wrapped.

New information in this year’s survey includes rates for seeding cover crops, combining corn with a reel and scouting crops with fixed wing drones.

For more information, Plastina can be reached at (515) 294-6160 or plastina@iastate.edu.

This article was submitted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. v

www.TheLandOnline.com

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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PAGE 9

GreenSeam survey reveals optimism, concerns for agriculture

By PAUL MALCHOW business prepare for this, and how can The Land Managing Editor consumers pay for it? Or think about county ordinances. The only business we NORTH MANKATO, Minn. — The regulate the size of is animal agriculture. world of agriculture is unpredictable, We don’t limit the size of gas stations or and that was never more so the case banks or restaurants; yet we determine these past 12 months. Buoyed by Covid as a society what size a dairy farm should vaccine headlines and market prices not be. Most of the time, businesses do not seen in years, responders to GreenSeam’s complain about the regulation itself. It is annual State of Ag survey were full of the process — which can stretch out and optimism. cost time. How can we be more efficient GreenSeam is a division of Greater on this as time is money.”

Mankato Growth. Its mission is to proMore than 60 percent of survey responmote the southern Minnesota region as a dents have seen an increase in people world-class food and agribusiness epicentaking side jobs to supplement income. ter. To that end, GreenSeam partners The top occupations mentioned included with agriculture-related business to construction, trucking, factory work and address issues ranging from developing food service. new markets, products and technologies; to local, state and federal issues and reg“We need to do a better job really Photo by Paul Malchow ulations. understanding the economics of our comMSU-Mankato’s Shane Bowyer (left) and GreenSeam Director Sam Ziegler (right) faced the For the past two years, GreenSeam has media at Mankato Brewery on March 23 for the release of GreenSeam’s 2021 State of Ag munities,” urged Ziegler. “Often people look at who the largest employer is in a relied on input from business, financial survey. community. However, in many cases, the and educational institutions to develop a Just over half of the respondents said Covid-19 had survey of questions pertaining to the current state of a negative impact on their business. At the same largest employer is only there because of agriculture. agriculture and issues facing the industry. On March time, some indicated positives — such as lower travel We need to better understand the ripple effects and 23 GreenSeam released the 2021 State of Ag report expenses and saving money with employees working be sure we give notice to what is the driver of our communities and regions; then commit purposeful during an event at Mankato Brewery. from home. resources to improve this — rather than trying to be The report carried an unusual and interesting eleForecasting the change of their business in the next something we are not.” ment in comparison to the 2020 survey. When the year, 60 percent reported they foresee growth, while Joining Ziegler at the Mankato Brewery event was 2020 survey was being distributed and responses only 12 percent thought their business will decline.

Minnesota State University Mankato Professor compiled, Covid-19 was relatively unknown; and few More than half of surveyed businesses are looking to anticipated the economic impact the pandemic would hire additional employees and nearly a quarter of Shane Bowyer. Bowyer is an assistant professor of have. When the 2021 survey was conducted, busi- respondents said they believe immigrant workers are management, as well as director of the school’s nesses and families had experienced perhaps the an important factor in allowing them to grow their AgriBusiness and Food Innovation Program. Also taking part in the program were Minnesota most unusual year ever. But a vaccine was on the business.

Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom horizon and ag commodity prices were robust.

“Education, talent and employees are all tied Petersen; Andrew Herr, president of GAT Farms; “The results were fascinating,” said GreenSeam together,” Ziegler said. “Businesses need to do a bet- Brad Schloesser, Dean of Agriculture at South Director Sam Ziegler. “While citing community pres- ter job staying in contact with their educational insti- Central College; and Val Johnson, who serves as Vice sures about affordable housein, available child care, tutions and educational institutions need to do a President of Human Resources for Christensen health care and an unpredictable farm economy, a better job looking beyond standardized testing and Farms. jamority of respondents said they were either “very reaching out to businesses. I have been told by k-12 The survey in its entirety can be found online at optimistic” (16.4 percent) or “somewhat optimistic” administrators that ag is not a driver; and there is no https://greenseam.org/.

Interested parties can view (52.7 percent) about the economic prosects of the need to put additional resources to ag education as local communities over the next five years. A full 62.3 the amount of farmers are getting less. Yet they for- the Mankato Brewery event on GreenSeam’s v percent of respondents said the region is headed in get to understand we have just as many people in Facebook page. the right direction.” ag today as we did in the past — they are just not Ziegler said data showed strong yields and good farming.” crop prices are leading reasons for the optimism, Survey respondents also voiced a number of conalong with advances in innovation and sustainability. cerns for the health of agriculture. The biggest Prepare for unexpected “Agriculture in the past year has had trade issues threats to business growth were seen as increased power outages with a with China, Mexico and Canada,” he explained. “To regulation, lack of potential employees, and taxes.

Generac home standby back large world supplies, to Covid causing meat generator “Reports from the Center for Rural Policy about processing shut-downs to a change in customer purREQUEST A FREE QUOTE! chases, to now where trade is open, world stocks are health care mention the lack of competition in rural 877-228-5789 down and the supply chain has worked out a lot of areas as the issue behind some of the concern,” comchallenges. We are seeing manufacturers with mented Ziegler. “Other parts is policy-related as 7-Year Extended Warranty* increased sales. The focus groups and survey respon- farmers end up in the single payer category which A $695 Value!

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THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

Anhydrous safety should be top concern this spring Many farmers and applicators will soon be applying anhydrous ammonia (NH3) ahead of the planting season. Even with a rush against time and the weather, safety should never be compromised.

Always wear appropriate goggles and gloves. Never wear contact lenses. Be sure to have a clean, adequate emergency water supply of at least five gallons.

Exercise caution when making connections and disconnections as if lines contain anhydrous ammonia.

Stand upwind when connecting, disconnecting, bleeding lines, or transferring NH3. Also, close, bleed, dis-

connect, and secure valves and transfer lines when taking breaks or disconnecting lines, and be sure to handle hose end valves by the valve body. Position equipment away and downwind from homes, people, and livestock. Never assume NH3 lines are empty, always wear proper protective equipment, and have access to safety water.

When towing a nurse tank down the road, drive sensibly. Do not go any faster than 30 miles per hour, display a slow-moving vehicle emblem visible from the rear, and be sure the tank is secured to the trac-

tor or truck with two separate, independent chains that supplement the hitch pin/clip.

If an accident or spill occurs, immediately call 911 and then the Minnesota Duty Officer at (800) 4220798 or (651) 649-5451.

You can find more safety, storage, and transportation information on the MDA’s website at www.mda. state.mn.us/nh3.

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

Beef producer improves forage on former CRP enrollment VILLARD, Minn. — Jennifer Olson is building up a herd of beef cattle as she works to develop a more productive pasture on the Pope County farm where she grew up.

“Our end goal here is farm-raised beef. We’ll do some farm-to-fork eventually,” Olson said.

With the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Olson introduced British whites to the Charolais-Angus mix, selecting animals that exhibit a docile temperament and finish well on grass. She’ll add diversity to the brome grassdominated pasture, land previously enrolled in the federal Conservation Reserve Program.

Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) assistance from NRCS will offset the cost of fencing the 155-acre pasture, installing a watering system, and seeding 4.2 acres with a native plant mix. As a beginning farmer, Olson, who recently took over the operation, qualifies for slightly higher payment rates.

Olson and her husband, James, recently completed the second year of her five-year NRCS contract. Their three-year rotational grazing plan is designed to support 50 cow-calf pairs.

Between full-time day jobs (she’s a Farm Service Agency program technician, he works in automation manufacturing) they’ve erected all 5,000 feet of fourwire perimeter fence and about a third of the 12,000 feet of single-wire interior fencing.

The finished pasture will contain 20 rotationally grazed paddocks, more than one mile of buried water pipeline and nine shared water tanks.

Rotational grazing results in more lush, green grass with well-developed root systems which help to stifle weeds. By keeping cattle out of streams, water systems address water quality and erosion concerns.

Olson’s contract is one of about 20 active grazing contracts in Pope County. Throughout Pope County, 2,860 acres were enrolled in NRCS grazing contracts in 2020.

“So much of the land is either in production or it’s in CRP. We had to better manage the pastures and grassland we had. I think that’s where some of this came from, is there’s a shortage of land for grazing producers,” Behrens said.

Perham-based NRCS regional grazing specialist Jeff Duchene worked with Olson on her rotational grazing plan.

“The idea is to get some cool-season native grasses for early in the season, and then some native warmseason grasses, and then add some forbs for diversity and hopefully make some habitat for native pollinators and other wildlife,” Duchene said.

For the 4.2-acre native prairie seeding, Duchene suggested adding to those cool- and warm-season grasses a legume-heavy mix of forbs — including purple prairie clover, white prairie clover and Canada milk vetch; plus golden Alexander, Maximillian sunflower and long-headed coneflower.

“In general, with a well-managed pasture you’ll have virtually no soil erosion if you maintain good ground coverage in the pasture, and very little runoff.

A well-managed pasture will soak up virtually all the

rainfall,” Duchene said.

Olson will receive about $59,500 in NRCS reimbursements.

“Without NRCS assistance we probably would have still completed this project,” Olson said, “but it would have taken us a lot longer to accomplish. We would have been looking more at a 10-year to a 15-year plan vs. a five-year plan. So it allowed us to move forward a lot faster, and thus benefiting water quality and environmental concerns through the rotational grazing.”

The Olsons plan to install the watering system over the next two summers. Meanwhile, Olson continues to improve herd genetics.

“I’ve got grass and I’ve got time,” Olson said.

This article was submitted by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources. v

Online Beef Quality Assurance and University of Minnesota Extension, along with Minnesota Beef Council, will host several online Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) and Secure Beef Supply (SBS) training sessions. Producers only need to attend one of these free workshops to receive a threeyear BQA certification and they will also learn the steps needed to begin their own Secure Beef Supply plan.

A BQA certification is being required by many major industry buyers and processors. BQA certification is still voluntary for producers to complete.

However, when a producer does not have current BQA certification, many packers and feedlots simply cannot purchase those cattle because their company cannot source cattle from a producer who does not meet their certification requirements.

Pre-registration is required. You will not be able to access the Zoom meeting room without first pre-registering and receiving the secure Zoom link and passcode. The two-hour training and certification session is free. Only one person from each operation is required to be certified to ensure the entire operation follows the BQA standards. However, everyone who

handles and manages fed cattle is encouraged to become BQA certified. Certification is good for three years.

Register for the online training using the specific link for the training you wish to attend. All training sessions begin at 6:30 p.m.

April 20, z.umn.edu/BQAApril20; May 6, z.umn. edu/BQAMay6; May 18, z.umn.edu/BQAMay18; and June 3, z.umn.edu/BQAJune3.

Families will be able to view the training on the same computer/mobile device, and all viewers will receive credit for certification.

If you have any questions regarding certification or how to pre-register, contact Stacey Caughey at butle269@umn.edu.

Those unable to attend a scheduled Zoom session can also earn free certification online, anytime, at www.BQA.org.

This article was submitted by University of Minnesota Extension. v

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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

PAGE 11

1996 FFA officers weathered a big storm as a team When memories and experiences remain with and in a virtual format. Unfortunately, the 2021 ON THE COVER: someone for 25 years, the stories are worth notMinnesota State FFA Convention will also be Minnesota state FFA officers in ing. Every year, The Land tracks down the 1996 were (front row, left to right) held virtually the week of April 19-23.

Minnesota state FFA officers from 25 years ago Reporter Stephanie Yonker, SentiWe would like to thank the people who shared to hear of the impact FFA had made in their nel Laura Heiden, and Secretery their time and stories for this issue. The Land lives. And every year the stories carry a common Arianne (Oudekerk) Steenblock. would also like to thank the many ag instructors Back row, (left to right) Vice Presithread of hard work, nerves, comradery and and FFA advisors who guide and influence our dent Mark Jirik, Treasurer JoshTjorewards sometimes not realized until years later. future leaders. Congratulations to the FFA orgasaas and President Lance Miller.

This year’s batch of recollections had a more nization, its members and their families for unusual, distinctive bond involving a camp and a another successful year in dealing with the setThe Land’s visit with past officers always prints in backs of the pandemic. It is our hope you all may big Minnesota thunderstorm. We’ll let the officers April to coincide the state FFA convention. Because gather in unison in 2022. tell the story. v of Covid-19, the 2020 convention took place in May

Agriculture, FFA has always been in President Miller’s life

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer Lance Miller was raised on a diversified livestock farm near Pipestone, Minn., where he had the opportunity to show sheep, shorthorn cattle and market hogs in 4-H. “I’ve got an older sister, three years ahead of me, she was doing FFA things.” Miller was intrigued by hearing all about his sister’s experiences in FFA. “Most of the youth from 4-H participated in FFA. It was a natural progression for me.” The Pipestone chapter had around 80 members at the time.

While in high school, Miller was the Region Four president. “I naturally gravitated toward leadership roles and activities.” Miller remembers the competition for the Region Four president position was fierce. “I was very fortunate to be elected to regional president.”

Stephanie Yonker, who went onto serve as a state

FFA secretary, was regional vice president at that same time. For Miller, once he was elected to that position, it really solidified his interest to run for a state office.

The election process for state office wasn’t too bad for Miller.

“For me, sitting down chatting with a couple of people is comfortable. Larger groups do kind of unnerve me a lot.” The interview process consisted of talking to a group of eight to 10 people, the perfect size for Miller. “I’m comfortable thinking on my feet.”

When it was announced that Miller was state president, he was shocked. “I was the last officer to be named.”

Looking back at his time as state president, Miller remembers the triumphs of working alongside such a strong group of leaders. “I don’t recall much struggles, the team was a really good team to work with. I think our team was a neat combination of talent and personalities.”

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Miller was at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul campus while serving at state FFA president. Having that position in FFA while in his first year of college wasn’t always easy. “It was a balancing act. There is the balance of college life and being a state officer and those commitments you made.”

FFA offered Miller the ability to become part of a solid ag organization and obtain leadership qualities that he has carried with him to this day. “It’s a great foundation. I’m truly blessed to be in the ag industry my whole life.”

After getting his undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota, Miller went on to receive his master’s degree from the U of M as well in ruminant nutrition. He then moved to Wyoming where he taught at the University of Wyoming and had the opportunity to coach the livestock judging team as well for 12 years. He is now with Purina Animal Nutrition as a sales specialist covering the state of Wisconsin.

Today, Miller and his wife Lori, along with children Liam and Layla, reside in Edgar, Wis. His advice to FFA members today as they decide whether to run for a state office? “Just do it. If you’re debating about it, run.” Miller’s appreciative that he did. v

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PAGE 12

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THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

Jirik raised his hand for the ultimate FFA experience

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer Raised on a dairy farm outside of Mahnomen, Minn., Mark Jirik had a passion for all things agriculture. That zest for farming, coupled with the family tradition of participating in FFA, made joining the organization an easy choice. Jirik’s three older brothers were involved in FFA. Hearing all about their experiences made Jirik excited to jump right in.

It wasn’t just his brothers who made Jirik enthusiastic about the numerous opportunities in FFA, it was his advisor who pushed him to his potential. “We had an ag teacher, Mr. Erickson, who was fabulous,” Jirik said.

The Mahnomen FFA chapter had 70 members at the time. Jirik served as chapter president, secretary and then Region One treasurer and sentinel.

While Jirik had leadership experience in the FFA organization, he still felt his chances of getting a state officer position were limited. “In a lot of ways, I was a very unlikely candidate.” Jirik had never attended an FFA convention or a camp. It was Erickson who encouraged him to run for a state office.

Jirik recalls the state officer election interviews were an interesting experience. “I remember it being relatively stressful.” Jirik went into the election process ready for whatever the results were. “If it hap-

pens, it happens.”

When Jirik’s name was announced for the vice president position, surprise came over him.

“I was shocked. I wasn’t expecting to be vice president.” Jirik didn’t think he had much of a chance after all other officers were named. “It was very much overwhelming.”

The state officer team that year was filled with people from all over Minnesota with the common goal of making a positive impact on the Minnesota FFA organization through their leadership.

The state officer team put together a leadership camp were 100 FFA members attended. “It was a lot of responsibility,” Jirik recalled. “We were basically the adults on site. We just had a tremendous team.”

A windstorm came through the camp causing a power outage and there was no running water.

“Nobody complained, the students took it like champs,” Jirik said.

Jirik was a student at North Dakota State University in Fargo while serving as a state officer.

While many of the officers were in school at the University of Minnesota, others were in different parts of the state, with Jirik being in North Dakota and Laura Heiden (sentinel) in Wisconsin. “It was somewhat difficult to not all be together.” Though Jirik points out that it made the time the officers got

to spend together all the more special.

Jirik looks back fondly on his time as a state officer.

“It really changed my perspective on going for it. I never thought I could be a state officer.” Jirik had the opportunity to work with so many fellow FFA members from all over the state, making an impact on them through his leadership abilities.

After his time as a state officer, Jirik went on to graduate from NDSU with a degree in ag economics.

He then obtained a master’s degree in ag economics from the University of Illinois in Urbana. That led to a career with Cargill in commodity merchandising and commercial management, where he spent 17 years working in various locations from Wichita, Kan. to Melbourne, Australia. He’s now the director of the Northern Crops Institute in Fargo. “Our mission is to expand crops grown in this region.”

Jirik resides in Detroit Lakes, Minn., not too far from where he grew up. “Roots and family are where I feel home is.”

Having now been a world traveler and lived abroad, it was FFA that first introduced Jirik to a world outside his community. “The seed of travel was planted while I was in FFA,” he said.

In his career, Jirik has utilized numerous skills he obtained during his time in FFA which includes the ability to work with people from different backgrounds.

He’s grateful for the opportunity he had to become a state officer and the connections he made. He encourages those who are interested in running for a state office to take that chance. “You never know unless you put your hand up.” Jirik is grateful that he made the decision 25 years ago to simply put his hand up. v

State Secretary Steenblock is now in the cattle business

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer For Arianne (Oudekerk) Steenblock growing up outside of Austin, Minn. on a small hobby farm, her enthusiasm for agriculture was ingrained in her at an early age. That interest continued to grow throughout the years. “I worked in middle school, high school and some of college on dairy farms. I have always loved agriculture and caring for animals.”

It was an ag class in ninth grade in Austin which gave Steenblock the opportunity to learn more about FFA. She jumped right into the organization by participating in the FFA creed contest that year as well as attending Greenhand camp that summer. “It was so much fun,” Steenblock said. She went on to serve her local chapter in a variety of ways. Steenblock transferred to Waseca high school in her junior year and was elected as Region Seven president.

Steenblock knew she wanted to become an FFA state officer as she looked up to so many past state officers. She wholeheartedly wanted to serve in a leadership capacity in FFA, giving back to the orga-

During her time as secretary, it nization which had given her so was connecting not only with her many wonderful memories. fellow state officers but with The state officer election proother FFA members as well that cess was nerve-racking for she treasured. “I really enjoyed Steenblock. “It was my biggest the summer camps. They were goal up to that point in my life.” filled with lots of stories — good Some of Steenblock’s life deciones and some kinda stinky — sions were on hold until she like the camp we lost power for found out whether she was electseveral days after a bad storm.” ed to a state officer position.

Steenblock found that being a When it was announced that state officer offered her the she was state FFA secretary, chance to meet people and be Steenblock was thrilled. “I was involved in new experiences. “I shocked — but very excited. I thrive on learning new things was probably kind of surprised and personal growth.” It was the to get the role of secretary.” ability to get outside her comfort For Steenblock this ended up zone and seek opportunities to being the perfect position. “I better herself. “FFA pushed me think it was the ideal fit for each team member and to set big goals, to become a better version of myself, the selection process gave us an amazing team that and never settle.” strived to give back to our state, members, and comSee STEENBLOCK, pg. 13 munities.”

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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

PAGE 13

Not for the faint of heart, Tjosaas treasures his FFA experience

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer Growing up on a 10-acre hobby farm near Long Prairie, Minn., Josh Tjosaas had a passion for agriculture — especially horses.

That passion led Tjosaas to seek opportunities in the ag arena, leading him on a path which continues in his career today.

While in eighth grade, Tjosaas was already interested in taking ag classes in high school and being a part of FFA thanks to the ag instructor/FFA advisor, Tim Wickstrom. “We had a young energetic ag instructor.”

That enthusiasm for ag, coupled with already having been a part of 4-H, it was a natural progression for Tjosaas to join FFA. While in high school, Tjosaas jumped right into leadership opportunities in the chapter. He was chapter vice president and president. He then served as district vice president and region vice president.

His interest in serving in a leadership compacity in FFA continued to grow. “I went to the state Greenhand camp.” While there he ran for camp officer, he was elected camp president. Tjosaas fondly remembers advisor Paul Day writing him an encouraging note at camp. That, along with meeting some state officers there, planted the seed for Tjosaas to eventually run for a state office.

“It was a very interesting process,” Tjosaas said.

While at the convention, in addition to running for state office, he competed in the horse evaluation contest and the extemporaneous speaking contest. As he was busy competing in the contest as well as participating the state officer interview process, Tjosaas was exhausted and stressed. “I actually fainted on stage after I got elected.” All that excitement on stage was Tjosaas introduction to the world of the being an FFA state officer and what a thrilling ride it ended up being.

“I really enjoyed the camps and conferences.”

Getting the chance to meet fellow FFA members oneon-one was a privilege for Tjosaas. What did he trea-

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sure most about his time as a state officer? “The friendships.”

He also fondly recalls the business industry tour that he was a part of traveling around portions of the state.

His role as treasurer offered Tjosaas the chance to get into the world of finance on a level he hadn’t had before. “It was unique in that Mr. Ertl trusted me with a lot of treasurer duties.”

Tjosaas was attending the University of Minnesota majoring in and living on St. Paul campus while he was state treasurer.

“The FFA program really developed me into the person I am.” Through his time in the organization, Tjosaas

was able to gain interpersonal communication skills.

Presenting to groups isn’t a problem for him now. “It doesn’t bother or rattle me.” The state officer interviews were a great opportunity to become a better interviewee. “It prepared me well for job interviews.”

After graduation from the University of Minnesota with a degree in agricultural education, Tjosaas went onto to teach at Buffalo Lake-Hector where he was also the basketball and FFA advisor there for 13 years. In 2012, Tjosaas moved north where he is a farm management instructor at the Moorhead Northland site. Tjosaas and his wife, Alyssa, live in Barnesville, Minn.

He encourages those FFA members considering running for a state office to go for it and learn from the process. “Everybody that has the desire and interest to run should run for state office. The experience in running was invaluable.” v

Steenblock still very goal-oriented STEENBLOCK, from pg. 12 When Steenblock was elected FFA state secretary, she decided to enroll at Minnesota State University Mankato so she could stay in state and more easily attend officer activities. After that year, Steenblock went onto Iowa State University where she received a degree in ag business in 1998. After graduation, Steenblock worked in marketing for John Deere in both Moline, Ill. and in Des Moines, Iowa. She received a master’s degree in business administration from Drake University in 2003.

Steenblock married her husband, Ryan, in July 1999 and are the proud parents of Arilyan, 14 and Brody, 10. They started their ag production dream with two bottle calves on their acreage outside of Panora, Iowa. They now own and operate over 200 head commercial cow-calf operation along with hay and row crops. Starting in 2010 she chose to be a fulltime mom and live her dream of raising cattle and kids.

It’s the skills learned during her time in FFA that Steenblock utilized both in her corporate career and today in her cattle business. “During my career, the leadership, speaking and writing experiences in FFA gave me a huge advantage in the corporate world.”

On the farm, Steenblock continues to be ambitious in all her endeavors. “I’m still very goal orientated, striving to continually improve our practices as we feed our family, neighbors, America and the world.

But my greatest accomplishment will always be my role as wife and mother as Ryan and I grow a legacy for our family.”

Steenblock looks back fondly on her time in FFA and holds those memories dear. “FFA helped me to rise above adversity to achieve my dreams, sent me on great adventures to travel around the country and even overseas, and captured memories that will forever be treasured in my heart.” v

Women’s Ag Leadership Conference Mark your calendars for April 14 for the 23rd annual Women’s Agricultural Leadership Conference.

This year’s virtual conference, “Agriculture 2021: Leading for Change Into a New Decade” will focus on developing women in agriculture, empowering new leaders, bringing in diverse perspectives, and preparing leaders for the next decade.

Featured presenters in 2021 include Adrienne DeSutter, owner of Sow Hope Grow Hope; Artha Jonassaint, 2020-2021 National FFA Southern Region Vice President; Deanna Kovar, Vice President

of Production and Precision Ag Production Systems, John Deere; Somula “Sam” Schwoeppe, dairy farmer and Feeding America senior account manager; and Julie Tesch, President and CEO, Center for Rural Policy and Development.

This free event will be held from 8:30-11:30 a.m. using the Zoom virtual platform. Visit www.womensagleadership.org for details on how to register.

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

PAGE 14

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THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

Yonker took her Minnesota FFA skills to San Francisco

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer For Stephanie Yonker, her foray into FFA life started at home near Jackson, Minn. “My dad back in the day was actually an ag teacher.” Growing up on a hog farm, her interest in agriculture was homegrown.

It was natural that Yonker would join FFA when she was in ninth grade. She jumped right into the world of FFA and sought out as many opportunities as she could. “I was involved in the chapter and was Region Six vice president.”

Yonker thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the speech competitions. “I won the creed, public and extemporaneous contests.” Yonker also competed in meat judging.

Being so heavily involved in FFA, plus watching fellow chapter member Kimberly (Peterson) Kamolz become state FFA reporter in 1993 allowed Yonker to dream big and seize the chance to realize that dream of being a state officer.

“The election process was pretty grueling. It was more grueling than most job interviews. I still think that a lot of people that were state officers that year

were some of the most talented people I’ve worked with.”

One of Yonker’s most memorable experiences as state reporter occurred when she and her fellow state officers were at the FFA camp in Hackensack, Minn. and the power went out due to a strong windstorm. “I ate moldy bread.” Dealing with the power outage and having to be responsible to staying calm and leading the campers through that is something that Yonker looks back at and is grateful for the experience. Though she her stomach still turns thinking of that moldy bread.

During her time as state reporter she was on the Minneapolis campus of the University of Minnesota — the only one of the state officers to be at that location. “People were at so many campuses.”

Yonker graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in genetics and cell biology. She went on to the University of California Berkley where she received a PhD in molecular and cell biology and then on to law school at Harvard School of Law. Yonker has worked in San Francisco as a business

centered attorney. She and her husband, Carylai are the proud parents of two girls, Serena, Mila and live in the bay area.

Throughout all her years in the business world, it is her time in FFA that was instrumental in giving her invaluable tools she uses every day — like honing her communication, teamwork and organizational skills.

Yonker recalls while working alongside her fellow state officers, they were extremely goal driven and that drive allowed them to work together focusing on that common mission. “It was a very cohesive time that year.” She is quick to point out that a mutual reverence for each other was part of their success as state officers. “We fundamentally respected each other.”

Yonker is grateful for what FFA taught her and the memories that she made and still holds dear. She encourages those in FFA that are considering running for state office to give it a shot. “If you never try you never know if you can get it.”

Yonker is thankful she went for it in 1996. No matter what the outcome was, the experience gave her insight on her own strength and determination for working towards a now-treasured goal. v

FFA Sentinel Heiden recalls different talents coming together

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer Laura Heiden grew up on a crop and livestock farm near Rushford, Minn. Her background in agriculture made joining FFA a perfect fit for her. “I fell in love with the scope and variety,” Heiden said.

The Rushford FFA chapter prided itself on being a community organization. “We had a good relationship with the ag businesses.” That involvement in turn supported the organization. It was a good match. Heiden enjoy the chance to make a different in her own community by helping out through FFA. While in high school, Heiden was FFA chapter president and treasurer, She also served as region president. It was attending Greenhand camp after her ninth grade year that solidified Heiden’s goal to run for a state office. “It was seeing the larger scope of what you could do.” She looked up to the previous state officers at the camp and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people from all over the state.

The state officers’ election process for Heiden was intense. “It was a lot of people; it was a big group.”

Heiden, though, kept her eyes on the prize. “I wanted it so bad. I had been pushing myself.”

When it was announced that Heiden was named sentinel, joy ensued. “I was so happy; I couldn’t stop

smiling. It was an honor to be selected.”

Looking back at her time as a state officer, Heiden is filled with gratitude for experiences she got to share with her fellow state officers. “We had a really amazing team. We were all very different in personality. We all brought something different. It was rooted in friendship and respect.”

During her time as sentinel, Heiden was a student a University of Wisconsin River Falls. “Of course, it was a balancing act. I really enjoyed doing it.”

Heiden remembers the nownotorious state leadership camp storm. “We were out of power for three days. It was hot, it was sticky, there was no running water.”

Heiden laughs when explaining the ironic name of the final banquet at the camp, “Unplugged.” The theme for that night had been planned long before the storm took the electricity out, though it ended up being very fitting. The whole experience of dealing with a severe storm while hosting the FFA campers and trying to remain calm through it all was an expe-

rience Heiden vividly recalls. “It was memorable,” she said. It’s memories like these, persevering in tough situations and having some fun along the way that made Heiden’s experience as a state officer such an exceptional one.

Heiden gained skills during her time in FFA that she employs today — like being resourceful.

“This for me started at the chapter level. We were really involved in building a community park.”

After Heiden graduated from UWRF with a degree in ag education she has worked in the ag industry in marketing and business development. Heiden lives in St. Paul. “I’m a farm girl who really loves the city.”

Heiden’s advice to FFA members is to do something every day that scares them, to push themselves out of their comfort zone, in doing so they’ll broaden horizons. Taking that leap into pursuing a state officer position all those years ago pushed Heiden outside her limits and she’s thrilled she took that chance on herself. v

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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PAGE 15

Minnesotan nationally recognized for soil health efforts

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus Editor’s note: Last December Dick Hagen visited with Buffalo Lake farmer Brian Ryberg for an update on Ryberg’s soil building efforts. This will be Ryberg’s seventh year of employing strip till farming techniques along with cover crops in an effort to reduce field time, save energy and build organic matter into his soil.

On March 16 the American Soybean Association presented Ryberg with the 2021 National Conservation Legacy Award. The Conservation Legacy Awards program is a national program designed to recognize the outstanding environmental and conservation achievements of soybean farmers who help produce more sustainable U.S. soybeans.

Shortly after the award was announced, Hagen caught up with Ryberg to offer congratulations.

On March 19 it was my pleasure for another visit with this young (age 55) but now highly-honored conservation farmer. He had just received word he had been awarded the National Conservation Legacy Award — a most prestigious recognition.

Recognizing top conservation farmers across America, the selection narrowed the process to four regional finalists. And from this ‘Best of the Best,’ Minnesota’s Brian Ryberg, emerged national champion.

Ryberg, in his quiet way said, ”I’m humble to be recognized for our efforts. With Chris and Jason, I have a great team. We are together sharing this honor.”

He related to the virtual awards banquet program which took place the evening of March 16. “We tuned in at our home,” said Ryberg. “The spokesperson shared some of the conservation background of the four regional winners. Yes, Sandy (his wife) and I were more than just a bit overwhelmed when they read our names as national winners. And I’m still in awe and humbly grateful.”

The Rybergs are gracious people. Their homestead sits about 2 miles off busy U.S. Highway 212, directly south of Buffalo Lake. A huge farm shop dominates the complex, plus a few sizeable steel bins to accommodate their corn and soybean crops. However, for Ryberg Farms, forward pricing moves considerable quantities of both crops. And like many farmers these days, Ryberg said a significant portion of their 2021 production is already priced.

But conservation farming and minimum tillage was their honor so let’s stay on track. In a story I did in May 2019 for The Land, Ryberg told me, “Five years ago we had the discussion of how to change our farming methods. Those talks with Chris and Jason, my two valued partners in this operation, were a bit uncomfortable since this was indeed a compete transition. Five years of continuous corn was our story book. We were doing some serious looking at what we were doing to soil structure on our cropland.”

Their program at that time involved a Wishek disc after a chopping corn head followed by a ripper.

Then before planting, a field cultivator to prepare a smooth, level seed bed. Yes, lots of field trips and lots of equipment. They convinced themselves it was time for a change.

Brian Ryberg Their data tells the story: Total field hours went from 430 hours (with two, 4-wheel drive tractors) down to 210 hours with one, 4-wheel drive power unit. With conventional farming and upwards of five passes on each acre, gasoline consumption was almost 5 gallons per acre. With the Soil Warrior incorporating both tillage and fertilization with a single field trip, diesel fuel consumption dropped to .6 gallons per acre.

I asked Ryberg if his operation had made any changes in its program since we spoke two years ago.

“Like most, we’re always tweaking a few things. But for the most part, pretty much the same. Corn, sugar beets and soybeans are the hub of our entire cropping program. We’re now into some vertical tillage for soybeans however.”

“I’ve got two long-time employees, Chris and Jason, that I consider as equal partners. So when the ideas start flowing, we pretty much listen to what each has to say. As you might imagine, this gets to be some lively conversations. But inevitably, a new idea or two survives this incredible scrutiny. And that’s the genuine satisfaction to me of having such innovative partners.”

“The key drivers don’t change: Reducing wear and tear on equipment; holding the reins on man power for each production year; keeping fuel costs to a bare minimum; and of course the ongoing evaluations of seed genetic changes, new herbicide considerations and the latest info of soil fertility techniques. Plus this year with the significant increase in fertilizer prices for this new season, we’re asking what changes can we make to keep the lid on our total production costs.”

A key component in Ryberg’s field management is the Soil Warrior and a lot of research went into the decision to purchase such expensive equipment ($80,000 at the time). “We started checking manufacturers with equipment that would work in 22-inch rows. Soil Warrior, built at Faribault, Minn., only about 80 miles, did offer equipment that fit in 22-Inch row configurations. So obviously their location was a benefit. It seemed their machine was pretty much the ‘Cadillac’ of the reduced tillage equipment.”

Ryberg said an added bonus is the implement’s durability. “It’s a well-engineered, solidly built piece of equipment. That was important in our decision six years ago. We’ve had to replace a few things as expected, but now it’s ready to roll again for our 2021 season.”

In the last couple of years, soil health has gained a lot of traction with crop farmers who are partnering

with soil and water conservation districts to implement various techniques. Even though Ryberg could be considered a pioneer in soil health practices, he feels he is just scratching the surface.

“Still a lot to learn,” he admitted. “You can see changes just by the texture of the soil and water infiltration. Plus a requirement of being in the SWCD Conservation program is the Haney test which gives you a ‘soil health’ reading. Key is to have these Haney test numbers increasing each year … it’s a score so to speak of the biological activities in your soils. They increase each year. We provide soil samples each year to the soil testing lab at New Ulm. I don’t know the exact procedures in their testing, See RYBERG, pg. 16

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PAGE 16

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THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

Crop estimates spell higher feed costs for dairy farmers This column was written for the marketSoybeans were estimated at 87.6 miling week ending April 2. lion acres, up 5 percent from last year.

The figures were less than expected for Dairy farmers will see a little more in both crops, considering the prices they’re their milk check. The U.S. Department of bringing.

Agriculture announced the March Federal order Class III price at $16.15 per hunCotton planted area was estimated at dredweight. This is up 40 cents from 12 million acres, down less than 1 perFebruary, a dime below March 2020, but cent. the highest Class III price since The March 31 Daily Dairy Report MIELKE MARKET November 2020. The three-month average points out, “The next couple of months WEEKLY stands at $15.98, down from $16.77 at will determine whether farmers stick to this time a year ago and compares to

By Lee Mielke their planting intentions. Last year’s $14.30 in 2019.

Prospective Plantings report showed April 1’s Class III futures settlefarmers intended to plant 97 million ments portended an April price at acres of corn, but then the rains $17.50; May, $18.45; June, $18.61; July, $18.64; came. By June’s Acreage report, farmers had planted August, $18.65; September, $18.74; October, $18.64; only 92 million acres to corn.”

November, $18.34; and December at $17.97. Those The second USDA report was Grain Stocks which prices, added to the already announced Class IIIs, showed shrinking supplies. March 1 corn totaled would result in a 2021 average of $17.79, down from 7.70 billion bushels, down 3 percent from March 1, $18.16 in 2020, and compares to $16.96 in 2019.

2020. The December 2020 to February 2021 period The March Class IV price is $14.18 per cwt., up 99 indicated disappearance at 3.59 billion bushels, comcents from February, 69 cents below a year ago, and pared with 3.38 billion during the same period last the highest Class IV since March 2020. year.

Dairy farmers will need the extra cash to cover Soybeans totaled 1.56 billion bushels, down 31 perrising feed costs. We got some insight on that in two cent from 2020. Disappearance for the December USDA reports this week. First, was the Prospective 2020 to February 2021 quarter totaled 1.38 billion Plantings report which showed 2021 corn plantings bushels, up a hefty 39 percent from the same period at an estimated 91.1 million acres, up less than 1 a year earlier. percent, or an increase of just 325,000 acres from a n year ago.

MARKETING

Ryberg optimistic for 2021 season RYBERG, from pg. 15 but what we get is a measure of the biological activity of your soils. And this varies from soil type to soil type, plus drainage considerations, and we’re learning crop rotations and weed control also impact these scores. We’re moving in the right direction — that’s all that really matters. I don’t know if ‘ultimate scores’ are an eventuality.

Ryberg is pleased with the organic matter content of his farm’s soils. “Improving somewhat … we’re mostly in the high 5’s and 6’s. Plus some peat soils in the 15-plus category. There’s a continual message for us farmers to be increasing the organic matter of our soils. We were at relatively high scores already so we’re very pleased with the Haney test scores we’re seeing each year.”

Ryberg also employs variable nitrogen application rates for his crops. “Our fields are mapped and we collect yield data on a field-by-field basis. So we do some ‘spoon feeding’ our corn — especially those fields on continuous corn which get upwards of 220 pounds actual nitrogen. We’ve proven we can raise 225-230 bushel yields, so we try to feed according to appetite. On soybeans we’ve cut back to about 160 pounds.

You’ll recall February milk output was up 2 percent from February 2020, after adjusting for Leap Day. The Dairy Products report shows where the milk went.

Cheese output totaled 1.04 billion pounds, down 8.1 percent from January, but 4.7 percent above February 2020 (when adjusted for the Leap Day).

Output for the first two months of 2021 totaled 2.18 billion pounds, up 1.7 percent from 2020.

Italian-type cheese totaled 444.3 million pounds, down 7.6 percent from January but 2.4 percent above a year ago. Year-to-date, Italian was at 925.3 million pounds, down 0.9 percent.

American-type cheese totaled 425.4 million pounds, down 10.3 percent from January, but 5.2 percent above a year ago. Year-to-date, American hit 899.7 million pounds, up 5.1 percent.

Mozzarella output, at 347.5 million pounds, was up 1.9 percent from a year ago. Year-to-date, mozzarella was at 722.4 million pounds, down 1.7 percent from 2019.

Cheddar output, the cheese traded at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, fell to 301.6 million pounds.

This is down 45.3 million pounds or 13.1 percent from the January level which was revised up 9.3 million, but was 9.6 million pounds or 3.3 percent above a year ago. Year-to-date, cheddar is at 648.5 million pounds, up 4.3 percent from 2019.

Churns produced 185.6 million pounds of butter.

This is down 24 million pounds or 11.5 percent from January’s total which was revised up 2.7 million pounds, and was up 4 million pounds or 2.2 percent above a year ago, when adjusted. Butter output for the first two months totaled 395.3 million pounds, up 3.6 percent from 2020.

Yogurt production totaled 381.7 million pounds, up 5.4 percent from a year ago, with the year-to-date total at 767.3 million pounds, up 6.1 percent.

Dry whey totaled 77.0 million pounds, down 7 million or 8.3 percent from January, but 3.1 million or 4.2 percent above a year ago, with year-to-date at 161 million pounds, up 0.2 percent.

Dry whey stocks grew to 70.4 million pounds, up 4.5 percent from January, but 5.5 percent below those a year ago.

Nonfat dry milk output slipped to 186.3 million pounds, down 11.7 million pounds or 5.9 percent from January, but 32.7 million or 21.2 percent above a year ago. Powder production year-to-date stands at 384.3 million pounds, up 14.6 percent from 2020.

Stocks, at 345.6 million pounds, were up 40.6 million pounds or 13.3 percent from January and a bulging 27.3 million pounds or 8.6 percent above a year ago. Shipping issues, including blockage of the Suez Canal, likely backed up exports.

Skim milk powder production dropped to 29.6 million pounds, down 6.4 million pounds or 17.8 per-

Commodity prices are strong. China continues a major buyer of U.S. farm production — be that corn, soybeans, soybean oil, now ethanol fuels and even pork and beef are getting lots of China buyers too. I asked Ryberg for his predictions for the upcoming crop year.

“Right now we’re pretty optimistic,” he said. “Soil moistures are looking good. We’re hoping to get an early start. If Mother Nature cooperates with us throughout the growing season, 2021 could be a good one.”

With your increasing soil health, are you also considering boosting planting rates of corn, and even soybeans? “We’ve done a little with both crops,” explained Ryberg. “We don’t have much variability in our soils … pretty much flat and black on all our crop land. On seed genetics, we get at least a couple years data before making changes in our corn genetics, even our soybeans. In fact, with good genetics, it’s usually three to four years before a significant change to new pedigrees.”

So the bottom line for Ryberg Farms: Over the past six years they’re averaging $70 to $80 per acre reductions in total production costs. In simple farm jargon, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” v See MIELKE, pg. 18

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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PAGE 17

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THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

Butter price hits highest marks since June MIELKE, from pg. 16

block and four loads of barrel.

Central cheesemakers tell Dairy Market News cent from January and 7.5 million pounds or 20.2 regional dairy farmers are seeing increases in daypercent below a year ago. Year-to-date, skim milk to-day milk output. Cheese demand has remained powder hit 65.6 million pounds, down 16.5 percent steady on the retail side and food service orders from 2020. have picked up. Barrel producers report that steadin ly busy customer activity has kept loads moving out Falling milk prices and rising feed costs, thanks to the door. Some report hearing of potential carnivals China’s purchases, continue to take a toll on dairy and fairs, but this year’s spring/summer events farm profitability. The USDA’s latest Ag Prices report could be 11th-hour decisions due to the pandemic. shows the February milk feed ratio at 1.78, down Cheese market tones are “holding somewhat steady, from 1.98 in January, down from 2.35 in February although some contacts view them more bullishly 2020, and the lowest since May 2020’s 1.77. than not,” says Dairy Market News.

The index is based on the current milk price in Western retail cheese demand was slightly lower relationship to feed prices for a dairy ration consist- this week, while food service demand continued to ing of 51 percent corn, 8 percent soybeans and 41 increase. Export demand is also strong. There is percent alfalfa hay. In other words, one pound of plenty of milk available for cheese as plants continue milk could only purchase 1.78 pounds of dairy feed to run at or near capacity. Inventories are mixed as of that blend in February. some inventories grow, others are committed to surging food service sales. Plenty of cheddar-style cheese The U.S. All-Milk price averaged $17.10 per cwt., is available, though much is currently contracted. down 40 cents from January and $1.80 below the Hard Italian cheese demand is currently stable.

February 2020 average. n California’s All Milk price fell to $17.80, down 60 cents from January and 80 cents below a year ago.

Butter climbed to an April 1 close of $1.8450 per Wisconsin, at $17.20, was down 30 cents from pound, 7 cents higher on the week and the highest January and $1.90 below a year ago. since June 19. It was 56.5 cents above a year ago when the butter fell 20.75 cents to $1.28. Nineteen The national average corn price jumped to $4.75 cars found new homes on the week. per bushel, up 51 cents per bushel from January, which followed a 27 cent rise the month before, and was a whopping 97 cents per bushel above February 2020.

Soybeans averaged $12.70 per bushel, up an MADISON, Wis. — World Dairy Expo recently astounding $1.80 per bushel from January, which announced, after thorough consideration, World followed a 40 cent rise from December. Soybeans Dairy Expo 2021 will remain in Madison, Wisconsin. were an unbelievable $4.10 per bushel above The 54th edition of the event is scheduled for Sept.

February 2020.

28 through Oct. 2. This announcement comes after Alfalfa hay averaged $175 per ton, up $4.00 from contingency planning and consideration of alternaJanuary and $7.00 above a year ago. tive venues.

Looking at the cow side of the ledger; the “The clarity that Expo’s leaders sought from Dane February cull price for beef and dairy combined County officials regarding the path forward for averaged $65.60 per cwt., up $5.90 from January, 20 responsibly and safely hosting World Dairy Expo cents below February 2020, and $6.00 below the 2011 base average of $71.60 per cwt.

In the week ending March 20, 62,300 dairy cows were sent to slaughter, down 6,500 from the previ“Selective Dry Cow Therapy: Which Herds, Which ous week and 5,200 or 7.7 percent less than that Cows?” headlines the National Mastitis Council’s week a year ago. next webinar, set for April 15, starting at 2 p.m. This n free, one-hour educational offering features Volker Krömker, a professor in the University of Copenhagen’s Cash dairy prices moved higher in the Good Friday holiday-shortened week. The cheddar blocks department of veterinary and animal sciences, closed April 1 at $1.7750 per pound, up 5.5 cents on Frederiksberg C, Denmark. the week and 62.5 cents above a year ago when the The April 15 webinar will focus on factors to conblocks saw the second largest week to week plunge sider when contemplating selective dry cow therapy ever, losing 44 cents. for a dairy herd and factors to consider when choosThe barrels finished at $1.5125, up 5 cents on the ing a dry cow therapy regimen for individual cows. week, 37.5 cents above a year ago when the barrels Key topics include practical decision making regarding drying off dairy cows, herd-specific mastitis lost 20.25 cents, and are 26.25 cents below the monitoring, risk factors for new mastitis infections or blocks. Sales for the week amounted to 11 cars of

The last trading day in February saw butter at $1.47 per pound. But, as food service demand continues its upswing, butter producers say the push into the $1.80s at the end of March is not surprising. Retail orders have continued to outdo expectations, but food service customers refilling pipelines have definitely given the market tones some life.

That said however, contacts question the longevity as butter prices push higher, which could offset some of the recent international luster. Cream availability remains somewhat tight and plant managers say the heavy availability of much of the pandemic era has dissipated.

Some western butter makers are producing additional 82 percent unsalted butter to keep up with steady export interest. Inventories are up year-overyear, but much of it is already on contract, and butter makers expect to work through the stock over the next few months. Contacts hold varying opinions on how responsive consumers will be to retail holiday promotions; changes in grocery shopping habits and in-home gatherings pose challenges to accurate forecasting. However, as spring weather returns and vaccination rates increase, consumers are venturing out more, and food service demand is burgeoning, says Dairy Market News.

Grade A nonfat dry milk closed April 1 at $1.19 See MIELKE, pg. 21

World Dairy Expo to remain in Madison

2021 at the Alliant Energy Center has come to fruition,” shares Bill Hageman, WDE Board President.

“We are grateful for the patience and commitment to World Dairy Expo exhibited by our stakeholders and the dairy community throughout this process. Expo is excited for Madison to once again be the place where the global dairy industry meets!”

For more information, visit worlddairyexpo.com.

This article was submitted by World Dairy Expo. v

Webinar offers European dry cow therapy mastitis cure, and decision criteria for selective dry cow treatment.

To register for this webinar, go to https://bit. ly/3r3YNIC and follow the prompts. As the webinar approaches, registrants will receive an e-mail with information on how to log in to participate. If you are an NMC member and cannot attend the live program, you may access the webinar recording after April 30 at nmconline.org.

For further information, contact JoDee Sattler at jdsattler@nmconline.org.

This article was submitted by the National Mastitis Council. v

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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

PAGE 19

MARKETING

Grain Outlook Livestock Angles Covid decline Prospective Planting and Grain Stocks report rockets corn should help livestock prices

up cattle are now disappearThe five top producing corn As we approach the end of The following marketing ing and feedlots are closer to states of Iowa, Illinois, March and move into the analysis is for the week endnormal numbers on feed Indiana, Minnesota and month of April, the livestock ing April 2. before the Covid crisis. Cattle Nebraska are all expected to markets have had a good CORN — The market was on feed numbers have been have unchanged or lower month as prices have moved treading water waiting for declining over the past sevacreage this year. Corn acre- higher to levels not seen in the March 31 Prospective eral months which has helped age in Minnesota this year is quite a while. With the Covid Planting and Grain Stocks turn the corner and improved expected to stay at last year’s infections declining and the reports. And boy, were they prices for finished cattle.

8 million acres, Illinois is lockdown loosening, restauworth the wait! Nothing had JOE TEALE The replacement market PHYLLIS NYSTROM estimated to fall 400,000 to rants are reopening — which prepared us for the surprise Broker 10.9 million acres, Iowa down has increased the demand for CHS Hedging Inc. has also improved since those the U.S. Department of St. Paul 400,000 at 13.2 million, North meat products. The outlook Great Plains Commodity March 2020 lows to near the Agriculture had in store.

Afton, Minn.

Dakota up 1.35 million to 3.3 appears to be improving. The levels they collapsed from. As The corn acreage estimate million acres, South Dakota caveat to this is because of we look ahead, the outlook came in below the lowest estimate at up 650,000 to 5.6 million, Nebraska the unemployment problem, demand appears to be positive but guarded; just 91.144 million acres. The average down 300,000 at 9.9 million, Indiana from this point forward will likely because a lot will depend on an improvestimate was 93.2 million and last down 200,000 at 5.2 million, and decline until the economy rebounds to ing economy which will have a direct year’s planted acreage was 90.82 mil- Wisconsin up 150,000 at 4.15 million better levels. All livestock markets at influence on demand for product. The lion acres. It was also nearly 1 million corn acres. this writing were either overbought or weeks ahead will be important as to acres less than the USDA’s estimate at Many expect final corn acres to be approaching that condition. This would which direction cattle prices will take their February Outlook Forum. higher than the March 31 forecast. advise caution at this juncture; but into the summer months.

Grain stocks as of March 1 were Historically, this has proven difficult to does not mean higher levels can’t be The hog market has had an impres7.701 billion bushels vs. 7.767 billion do. In recent history, the average acre- attained. sive rally over the past several months. bushels expected. This is the lowest age increase from the March to June Cattle prices have continued to Hog numbers have been reduced March 1 stocks number in seven years. report is 800,000 acres. However, if the improve since their lows established in because of the severe cold weather Last year we had 7.952 billion bushels weather cooperates and prices stay March of 2020. This has been mainly back in February which aided the on hand on March 1. This confirms we elevated, we should see at least a mod- due to the fact that the market got strong market in the past two months. have not yet rationed this year’s corn est increase in acreage. Combined corn overdone on the downside from the Couple this with a good export marand ending stocks are closer to 1.2-1.3 and soybean acreage at 178.7 million scare of Covid virus. This caused the ket and prices moved to levels not billion bushels. The USDA’s last esti- acres are well below the record of 180.3 lockdown of people in their homes and seen since 2014. mate was 1.5 billion bushels. We won’t million in 2017. the closure of businesses which obviCurrently, the market is extremely see the USDA 2021-22 balance sheet Corn stocks were slightly lower than ously hurt demand for beef. As things overbought and could be subject to a until the May 12 World Agriculture anticipated at 7.701 billion bushels and have relaxed, demand for beef has once correction. However, this maybe short Supply and Demand Estimates report. again picked up. As a result, the backed- lived as the latest U.S. Department of Corn locked up the 25-cent limit See NYSTROM, pg. 20 Agriculture Hogs and Pigs report immediately after the report’s release. released March 25 was friendly due to The run-up erased the loss for the the reduced numbers. month and saw the monthly continuOne noticeable condition is as the ous corn chart keep its eight-month

corn/change* soybeans/change* pork cutout has risen, the movement streak of higher closes alive. New con St. Cloud $5.27 +.08 $13.74 +.11 of products has slowly decreased. This tract highs were set in virtually all the Madison $5.22 +.04 $13.78 -.04 could be signaling a slowly diminishcontracts with May at $5.85, July at ing demand for pork because of higher Redwood Falls $5.34 +.03 $13.79 -.04 $5.66.25, and December at $4.93 per prices. The next few weeks should

Fergus Falls $5.22 +.04 $13.64 +.06 bushel in the night session following give a signal as to which direction the Morris $5.23 +.06 $13.68 .00 the limit up move. We ended the holihog market will take into the summer Tracy $5.30 +.06 $13.90 +.01 day-shortened trading week on a mixed months. v note with old crop posting small losses Average: $5.26 $13.76 and new crop with decent gains. This emphasizes the more bullish number Year Ago Average: $2.85 $7.89 on the reports came from the acreage Grain prices are effective cash close on April 6. number.

Cash Grain Markets

*Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.

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.

PAGE 20

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

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

Soybean carryout expected to plunge next year NYSTROM, from pg. 19 the lowest in seven years. The trade was anticipating 7.767 billion bushels. On-farm bushels at 4.04 billion bushels are the lowest in seven years and account for 52.4 percent of total March 1 stocks. Last year, 56 percent of March 1 stocks were held on-farm. This is the lowest percentage since 2013 and the third-lowest since 1970.

Weekly export sales were in the lower half of expectations at 31.4 million bushels. Total sales have reached 2.587 billion bushels which are 99.5 percent of the USDA’s current 2.6 billion bushel outlook.

China canceled a small cargo this week but still has 14.7 million metric tons of outstanding U.S. purchases to ship. New crop sales were 2.3 million bushels, bringing total new crop sales to 78.7 million vs. 69.3 million bushels last year.

Weekly ethanol production bounced 43,000 barrels per day higher this week to 965,000 bpd. Ethanol stocks were down 695,000 barrels at 21.1 million barrels. Margins fell a nickel to 7 cents per gallon.

Gasoline demand rose to a 25-week high at 8.9 million bpd. Demand was 34 percent above last year’s Covid-19 demand slump, but 2.6 percent below the same week in 2019.

Outlook: The three-day holiday weekend shortened our trading week and may not have provided traders enough time to fully incorporate the new numbers into their balance sheets. One thing that was driven home this week was that we need to bring more acres into production this year or see next year’s ending stocks slide lower. Attention to spring planting weather will rise, but current forecasts predict favorable conditions. We need to further ration old crop stocks and add acres. Funds had trimmed their length going into the reports and have room to increase it. The trend is higher, but watch for signs higher acreage estimates are being incorporated if the weather cooperates.

Looking ahead to the April WASDE report, exports and feed usage need to be raised, and ethanol should at least hold steady if not increase slightly. This should lower the 2020-21 ending stocks number to the 1.1 to 1.3 billion bushel range.

For the week, May corn set a new contract high at $5.85 and was up 7.25 cents for the week at $5.59.75.

July hit a new high at $5.66.25 and was up 9.5 cents at $5.45.25, and December corn reached a new high at $4.93 and was up 18 cents for the week at $4.84.5 per bushel.

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange is planning to launch a micro Bitcoin futures contract on May 3, pending regulatory approval. The contract will be cash-settled and be worth one-tenth of one Bitcoin.

SOYBEANS — Soybeans got the same shock as corn with acres coming in at the low end of estimates and stocks near the average guess. Soybean acreage was forecast at 87.6 million acres vs. 90 million acres estimated. An acreage number of this size is the

third-highest on record, but we need more to avoid further tightening on the balance sheet. Last year we planted 83.1 million acres. The forecast is 2.4 million acres less than what the USDA used at the February Outlook Forum. The combined corn and soybean acreage number is still the second-largest on record.

Soybean stocks as of March 1 were 1.564 billion bushels. This is the lowest stocks number on March 1 in the last five years. The average estimate was 1.534 billion bushels and last year we had 2.255 billion bushels available.

Soybean acres in Minnesota are estimated to be up 400,000 this year to 7.8 million acres, Illinois up 400,000 at 10.7 million, Iowa up 400,000 at 9.8 million, Indiana up 100,000 at 5.8 million, Missouri down 50,000 at 5.8 million, Nebraska up 300,000 at 5.5 million, North Dakota up 1.25 million at 7 million, and South Dakota up 750,000 to a record 5.7 million acres. This is the ninth time in 11 years the acreage number has come in less than the trade estimate. The March to June acreage number has increased in seven of the last 10 years, so there’s a slight correlation for this year’s intentions.

Regarding the stocks number, it was slightly higher than the trade projection. On-farm stocks were just 594 million bushels or 38 percent of total stocks, near the lowest percentage on record and compared to 45 percent last year. Off-farm stocks of 970 million at 62 percent of the total is the largest percentage on record. Last year, we had just over 1 billion total bushels on hand as of March 1. This year’s stocks decline was focused in Iowa and Illinois where their combined year-on-year decline accounted for 42 percent of the national drop. If you need to buy soybeans, you will have to pull them out of commercials’ hands where most stocks reside.

Weekly export sales were at the lower end of expec-

tations at 3.9 million bushels. Total commitments stand at 2.235 billion bushels or 99.3 percent of the USDA’s 2.25 billion bushel export forecast. New crop sales were 4.8 million bushels. New crop commitments at 193.7 million are head and shoulders above last year’s 19.4 million bushels. The February National Agriculture Statistics Service Oilseed Crush report was 164.3 million bushels vs. 165.1 million bushels expected. This was the smallest monthly crush number since September 2019. Soyoil stocks were 2.309 billion pounds compared to estimates for 2.253 billion pounds.

Outlook: The market’s job is to increase planting intentions, reduce usage, and pull inventories to the market. Weather conditions for spring planting will be closely monitored as we can’t afford any glitches anywhere this year. Using this week’s numbers, private estimates for next year’s carryout plunges to an untenable sub-100 million bushels (some as low as 25 million bushels). Buckle up boys and girls, we’re in for a bumpy ride!

May soybeans failed to set a new contract high while most of the other months did in post-report trading. For the week, May soybeans were up 1.5 cents at $14.02, July was 5.5 cents higher at $13.96.75 (new contract high at $14.48.25), and November rocketed 56.5 cents higher to $12.63.75 per bushel (new contract high at $12.85).

Nystrom’s notes: Contract changes for the week as of the close on April 1: Chicago wheat fell 2.25 cents to $6.11, Kansas City was 3.25 cents lower at $5.65, and Minneapolis dropped 14.5 cents to $5.99.5 per bushel.

The USDA reports were considered neutral to wheat with March 1 stocks at 1.324 billion bushels vs. 1.278 billion estimated. Global weather is seen as improving wheat development. v

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

Micro-grants available to horse owners The Minnesota Horse Welfare Coalition’s mission is to keep Minnesota’s horses safe at home. The MNHWC provides access to resources before circumstances reach a crisis which endangers the wellbeing of the horse.

The MNHWC provides direct assistance to Minnesota horse owners experiencing temporary hardships and faced with competing priorities to maintain their horse or, as a last resort, refer horses to equine welfare and rescue members for rehoming assistance. The MNHWC offers micro-grants of up to $500 per horse to help with veterinarian and farrier

expenses, castration, feed and hay support, transportation for rehoming, medications and deworming.

Minnesota horse owners who need help can apply online at https://www.minnesotahorsewelfare. org/apply-for-assistance. If awarded, grants are paid directly to the service provider by the MNHWC. For more information, visit the MNHWC website https://www.minnesotahorsewelfare.org.

This article was submitted by University of Minnesota Extension. v

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

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

PAGE 21

End of Suez Canal debacle has dairy exports moving again MIELKE, from pg. 18 per pound. This is up 2 cents on the week and the highest it has been since Jan. 20, and was 32.75 cents above a year ago. Eight cars were traded on the week.

CME dry whey set another CME record high on March 31 and stayed there throughout the next day to close at 66 cents per pound. This is up 3.25 cents on the week and 33 cents above a year ago. There were four sales recorded for the week.

Dairy webinar on digital technologies Join Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council for a webinar on May 13, starting at 2 p.m. Ricardo Chebel, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine associate professor, will address “Using digital technology to optimize health and reproductive management.” The one-hour webinar is free.

The webinar will present a review of available health sensor technologies; explain how to use data to help enhance dairy cattle repro programs; and present recommendations on what to look for in a sensor technology system.

To register for this webinar, go to http://bit.ly/ DCRCmay13webinar and follow the prompts. If you are a DCRC member and cannot attend the live program, you may access the webinar at www.dcrcouncil.org after May 27.

For more information, e-mail Luciano Caixeta at lcaixeta@umn.edu or e-mail DCRC at jodee@ dcrcouncil.org.

This article was submitted by the Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council. v

USDA seeks virtual input on programs The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will hold its biannual Data Users’ Meeting virtually April 14 and 15 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The meeting is free and open to the public.

The Data Users’ Meeting shares recent and pending statistical program changes, soliciting input on these and other programs important to agriculture.

The April 14 agenda includes agency updates followed by several breakout sessions for participants to choose from, including AMS Market News; World Board Meteorology; NASS Grain Stocks Program; and Foreign Production, Trade, and Import/Export Data.

activities, the floor will open to participants for questions and comments, and the event will close with two breakout sessions: NASS Modernization and ERS Research.

Anyone interested in participating in the Spring 2021 Virtual Data Users’ Meeting should register online at www.nass.usda.gov/Education_and_ Outreach/Meeting/. Links to this Zoom meeting will be emailed to participants after registration.

Summaries of previous meetings are available on the same webpage.

For more information, contact Marisa Reuber at Marisa.Reuber@usda.gov or (202) 690-3099.

This article was submitted by the U.S. Department On April 15, after a brief recap of the previous day’s of Agriculture. v

Grazing assistance offered to select counties The Sustainable Farming Association, in partnership with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, is working to increase and improve the amount of regenerative grazing within the prairie pothole region of west and northwest Minnesota.

The new Technical Assistance for Grazing program aims to provide technical assistance to 20 graziers in this region. Participants in the program will receive an on-farm assessment of their operation; development of a grazing plan; training on adaptive grazing, fencing techniques and equipment; stockmanship training; implementation of soil health principles; and networking opportunities with other graziers The program is designed to offer one-on-one boots on the ground training to farmers wanting to begin, improve upon, or expand their grazing enterprise.

Over two years participants will work one-on-one with our SFA staff and participate in field days where they will learn from and interact with other graziers in this program.

The program covers Becker, Benton, Cass, Clay, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Kittson, Mahnomen, Marshall, Morrison, Norman, Ottertail, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, Roseau, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties.

Those who would like to participate and improve their grazing management should contact the SFA Soil Health Lead, Jared Luhman, at (507) 271-5968 or jared@sfa-mn.org. They can also apply online at http://bit.ly/sfagrazingapplication.

This article was submitted by the Sustainable Farming Association. v

n Exports are moving again now that the stuck cargo ship in the Suez Canal has been freed. The canal is a busy one. About 30 percent of the world’s shipping container volume moves through the 120 mile canal daily, according to Maersk, a Danish integrated shipping company which has been the world’s largest since 1996.

There seems to be no end to money from Uncle Sam to offset the effects of Covid-19. We talked about it in the April 5 “Dairy Radio Now” broadcast with Matt Gould, analyst and editor of the Dairy and Food Market Analyst newsletter. Gould said USDA provided an update on its plan for Covid relief but, with respect to dairy, “They left us with as many questions as we probably had before.”

Starting with the Food Box program, which successfully lifted cheese prices last year, we know it will end at the end of April, Gould said. However, we don’t know what will happen then.

They also left open-ended the possibility of any future direct payments to dairy farmers or dairy processors or any new programs. That said, Gould reported the USDA has stated it will implement a $400 million dairy donation program, which was funded in the stimulus bill passed last December.

They will also reopen the Coronavirus Food Assistance program II payments for dairy farmers who may have missed the deadline the last time around.

A lot of details are not available yet, he said, but he expects some pretty material changes in policy from the new administration. He believes there will be a bigger emphasis on trade agreements and be more trade friendly compared to the Trump Administration. However, in terms of direct payments, farmers probably fared better under Trump than they will under the Biden Administration.

Cooperatives Working Together member cooperatives accepted 14 offers of export assistance this week which helped them capture sales of 354,958 pounds of cheddar cheese, 408,958 pounds of butter, and 374,786 pounds of cream cheese. The product is going to customers in Asia, North Africa and Oceania from April through August.

CWT’s year-to-date export sales now total 11.56 million pounds of American-type cheeses, 8.757 million pounds of butter (82 percent milkfat), 3.649 million pounds of anhydrous milkfat, 13.54 million pounds of whole milk powder, and 4.239 million pounds of cream cheese. The products are going to 26 countries in six regions and are the equivalent of 534.9 million pounds of milk on a milkfat basis, according to CWT. Lee Mielke is a syndicated columnist who resides in Everson, Wash. His weekly column is featured in newspapers across the country and he may be reached at lkmielke@juno.com.

PAGE 22

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For everyone who has mailed it back we thank you very much!

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Real Estate SELL YOUR LAND OR REAL ESTATE IN 30 DAYS FOR 0% COMMISSION. Call Ray 507-339-1272

Real Estate Wanted WANTED: Land & farms. I have clients looking for dairy, & cash grain operations, as well as bare land parcels from 40-1000 acres.

Both for relocation & investments. If you have even thought about selling contact: Paul Krueger, Farm & Land Specialist, Edina Realty, 138 Main St. W., New Prague, MN 55372. paulkrueger@edinarealty.com (612)328-4506

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021 T

Feed Seed Hay

Feed Seed Hay

Farm Equipment

2000+ small square bales, FOR SALE: Alfalfa, mixed 1988 JD 4850 MFD with Duals oats straw for sale, $4.50 per hay, grass hay, straw and in- & 3 point; 9’ &10’ Ag bagbale. Phone 507-227-2251 dividually wrapped baleage. ger model 6070; Parker 2 Medium or large square Compartment gravity box & 4x5 net wrapped cornstalks, bales. Delivery available. J&M gravity box with brush $20-$30; grass hay, $30-$40; Zumbrota, MN. Call or text augers; 1978 GMC Tandem alfalfa $60-$70; up to RFV Ray Leffingwell 763-286-2504 green truck, Diesel, Autorotary chopped straw or matic. 320-760-1634 soybean stubble, $50. Can OPEN Pollinated Seed Corn. possibly deliver. 320-382- Produces more high quali- 2006 Great Plains (36 Ft 9”) 6288 (home) leave number ty silage on less acres than Discovator/Finisher Hi-Trash or 320-905-6195 (cell). Call or hybrid. $67/bushel plus ship- Drag (Long Tines) Double text. Thanks. ping. High feed value grain. Fold (Original Blades) (18 Located at Teutopolis, IL 3/4) 4 New Tires $18,500 ReALFALFA, mixed hay, grass 217-857-3377 duced $16,500/OBO. Retirhay & wheat straw, mediing. Real Good. 1991 Glencoe um square or round bales, 28 Ft #3500 Field Cult, New delivery available.

Bins & Buildings Style 5 Bar Frame/4 Bar Thief River Falls, MN. Call Harrow, New Long Tines. or text LeRoy Ose: Barn and Quonset Roofing Retiring. 319-269-4226 218-689-6675 and Straightening. Kelling Case IH 1230 row crop culSilo. 1-800-355-2598 Please support the advertisers tivator, $6,750; Ag Leader you see here. Tell them you Stormor Bins & EZ-Drys. 750 gal sprayer, 60’ boom, saw their ad in The Land!

100% financing w/no liens or $2,350; (2) 18x34 tires, 35% red tape, call Steve at Fair- tread, $175/each. 507-995-9676 fax Ag for an appointment.

FOR SALE: Case IH 955 12888-830-7757 30 3pt with lift assist, 2-200 Why hang on to stuff you don’t gal tanks, diaphragm pump, use? Put a line ad in The Land Early Riser monitor, $8,500.

2005 Case IH MX285 2926 and sell those things for some hrs. 8 new tires, quick hitch, extra cash. It makes sense. big 1000 rpm PTO, red leather seat, $75,000.

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THE LAND — APRIL 2 /APRIL 9, 2021 Farm Equipment

Farm Equipment

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

Farm Equipment

FOR SALE: White 8100 8R30” Harms Mfg. Land Rollers, JD 7200 8x36” corn planter planter w/ liq fert; White 5100 Brand New, 12’-$8,325; $9,500; JD 6620 combine, 8R30” planter for beans; 70’ 14’-$8,825; 16’-$9,350; 24’- 915 bean head, 444 cornhead hyd Herman culti harrow $22,450; 32’-$22,450; 42’- $12,000. Both pieces of maw/ new tines; IH 14’ press $26,000; Others from 8’-62’. chinery in exc condition & drill w/ grass seeder; 50’ 715-234-1993 always shedded. Owner is Wil-Rich field cult w/ 3 bar retiring. Call 507-276-6916 harrow; White 2-180 tractor JD 4255 2WD tractor, QR, 3 w/ 4435 hrs, 23.1-34 tires w/ hyd, 14.9x46 tires, $29,750; Your ad duals & 38x19-16.1 front tires. CIH RMX370 36’ tandem could be here!

All in good condition. Retir- disc, 3 bar CIH harrow, $19,750; Wil-Rich 12x30 cult 507-345-4523 ing. 320-630-1777 w/ rolling shields, $2,450; FOR SALE: 30’ Multiweed- J&M 350 gravity box w/ er with new 200 gal. water 11Rx22.5 tires w/ tarp & Un- New Holland 489 haybine; tank; 4 older John Deere verferth brush auger, $2,250; New Holland 853 round bals running gears, 6” auger on 18.4x42 10 bolt duals, Good- er; John Deere 1000 24’ field - transport; 1 1/2 horse motor year tires 70%, $1,900/pr; 10 culitvator; grain drill. 9522 sweep auger. 320-833-5989 bolt hubs off a CIH Magnum 290-3975 or 507-364-7631 & tractor, $550/pr. 320-769-2756 We buy hFOR SALE: Massey FerguSalvage Equipment m son 3pt rotary disc mower, JD 7000 Corn Planter, 2Row, Parts Available - 6’, 4 rotors, model DM1305, 3PT, $1,800; Fert. Avail.

Hammell Equip., Inc. like new, $4,500. 507-665-6300 $350/Row. 715-234-1993 (507)867-4910 ) h e 8 e w r .

r , % 6

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Tractors 1993 JD 8770 24 spd. 20.8 x 38 @ 65-70%, 7980 hrs., through J.D. Inspection Program, new head and injectors, $35,500. Call 320-395-2635

PAGE 23

Steffes Auction Calendar 2021 For more info, call: 1-800-726-8609 or visit our website: SteffesGroup.com

Opening April 1 & Closing April 9 Kelly & Colette Giffey Farm Retirement Auction, Roseglen, ND, Timed Online Auction

CASE IH 9130 4X4, 235HP, 12 SPEED, PS, 18.4 X 38 TIRES -DUALS, 7183 HOURS, $27,500. (507) 276-6009

Opening April 1 & Closing April 9 Witt Consulting Business Liquidation Auction, Monango, ND, Timed Online Auction

FOR SALE: 2010 JD 6430 premium, MFWD, tractor, cab, A & H, air ride seat, 1840 hrs, triple remote outlets, 24spd auto Quad trans, rack & pinion wheel adj w/ near new JD ldr, exc cond, $78,500. 507-877-2036

Opening April 5 & Closing April 13 at 7PM Peter Hanson Estate Auction, River Falls, WI, Timed Online Auction

FOR SALE: ‘66 JD 4020 dsl, 3pt, JDWF, $7,200; ‘70 MF 20 industrial, gas, loader, 3pt, LPTO, pwr steering, box blade, $4,250/BO. 320-5433523

Opening April 2 & Closing April 12 Jim Oelfke Farm Retirement Auction, Hamburg, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening April 5 & Closing April 14 EnRec Solutions Equipment Auction, Chippewa Falls, WI, Timed Online Auction Opening April 5 & Closing April 15 Meeker County, MN Land Auction - 80+ Acres, Meeker County, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 5 & Closing April 16 Moberg Energy Retirement Auction, Watford City, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening April 6 & Closing April 13 Scott Muscha Estate Farm Auction, Harvey, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening April 7 & Closing April 14 Gerald W Nepodal Estate Farm Equipment Auction, Platte, SD, Timed Online Auction Opening April 9 & Closing April 13 at 12PM Online Hay Auction – Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 9 & Closing April 15 Mark Christianson Farm Retirement Auction, Fertile, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 12 & Closing April 20 at 7PM Buhler Versatile Willmar Factory Liquidation Auction, Willmar, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 12 & Closing April 21 Mark Heck Estate Auction, Graceville, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 14 & Closing April 21 at 7PM MDT Rental Services Retirement Auction, Sidney, MT, Timed Online Auction Opening April 16 & Closing April 21 Online Steffes Auction – 4/21, Upper Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction Opening April 19 & Closing April 20 at 12PM Dunn County, ND Land Auction - 317± Acres, Dickinson, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening April 19 & Closing April 28 at 1PM Chisago County, MN Country Home Auction, Lindstrom, MN, Timed Online Auction Wednesday, April 21 at 10AM MDT Rental Services Retirement Auction, Sidney, MT Opening April 23 & Closing April 27 at 12PM Online Hay Auction – Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 23 & Closing April 30 Sioux Falls Area Spring Consignment Auction, Various locations near Sioux Falls, SD, Timed Online Auction Opening April 12 & Closing April 19 Transcan Motorsports Group, Inc. Equipment Auction, Steffes Group Facility, West Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening April 16 & Closing April 22 Nick Vollmuth Farm Retirement Auction, Selfridge, ND, Timed Online Auction

PAGE 24

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

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021 T

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, 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001 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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• Reach over 150,000 readers • Start your ad in The Land • Add more insertions • Get more coverage

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

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

 Hay & Forage Equipment  Harvesting Equipment  Grain Handling Equipment  Livestock Equipment  Wanted  Free & Give Away  Livestock  Poultry  Dairy  Cattle  Swine  Sheep  Goats  Horses & Tack  Exotic Animals  Pets & Supplies  Cars & Pickups  Industrial & Construction  Trucks & Trailers  Recreational Vehicles  Miscellaneous

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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 — APRIL 2 /APRIL 9, 2021 Tractors

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

Tillage Equip

Wanted

PAGE 25

Cattle

NEW AND USED TRACTOR John Deere 1000 25’ field cul- Wanted to Buy: JD725 6, 8 & PARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, tivator with 3 bar coil tine 12 row - front mount cultiva55, 50 Series & newer trac- harrow, excellent condition, tors; Stanhoist and Bushhog steel barge boxes; Gehl and tors, AC-all models, Large $400. 507-364-8740 Lorentz grinder/mixers; plus Inventory, We ship! Mark all types of farm machinery.

Heitman Tractor Salvage Planting Equip Wanted: also JD 4430 1975 or 715-673-4829 newer. 507-251-2685 7000 JD planter, 30”, 8RN, dry fertilizer, JD monitor, $3,900; Wanted: International 540 & 550 spreaders for salvage 300 bushel Unverferth gravior use. Also JD 4430 and FOR SALE: 2009 JD 2210 ty box, $400; JD 2800 4 bot4230 tractors. Call 507-251field cult, 28 1/2’, permalock tom plow, $900; IH 843 corn2685 quick change shovels, 4 bar head, $400. 320-587-4544 harrow; JD 400 20’ rotary hoe; Alloway 8R30” Danish FOR SALE: John Deere 700 Livestock spring tooth cult. All items planter, front fold, dry ferlow acres, very good cond, tilizer with auger fill, 8R36”, shedded. Retiring 507-828- precision meters. Retiring. FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls 507-822-2188 5810 also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ FOR SALE: John Deere 7200 Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred FOR SALE: Kemen 320-598-3790 45 ft. Rolling Basket, $3,500. 6RN dry fertilizer, insecticide, 250 monitor. 320-296507-920-7458 9929 Cattle GREAT PLAINS (2013) 33 Ft 5” #8533 Discovator/FinWanted isher (blades 19 1/2”) (20” POLLED HEREFORD new.) Like new, $23,500/ BULLS, yearlings and 2 year OBO. Retiring. 1990 Glencoe All kinds of New & Used farm olds, low birth weight, high 28 Ft #3500 New Style (Five equipment - disc chisels, field performance, semen testBar Frame) w/ 4 Bar Har- cults, planters, soil finishers, ed and delivery available. row (16” New Tines) $5,900. cornheads, feed mills, discs, Jones Farms, Le Sueur, MN. Good One. Retiring. 319-347- balers, haybines, etc. 507- 507-317-5996 6282 Or 319-269-4226 438-9782

Tillage Equip

Please recycle this magazine.

LAND AUCTION CEDAR MILLS TOWNSHIP, MEEKER COUNTY, MN OPENS: MONDAY, APRIL 5

2021

CLOSES: THURSDAY, APRIL 15 | 1PM

LAND LOCATED: From Cosmos, 4.5 miles east on MN-7 E, 2 miles south on County Rd 1, .7 miles east on 110th St. Land is on the north side of the road.

AUCTIONEER’S NOTE: This parcel of land has been in the Stucke Family for multiple generations and is now going on public auction. Do not miss the chance to own 80± acres of farmland & recreational land.

80 Selling in 1 Tract

SteffesGroup.com

24400 MN Hwy 22 South, Litchfield, MN 55355 | 320.693.9371 For a detailed Buyer’s Prospectus with complete terms and conditions, contact Eric Gabrielson at Steffes Group, 701.238.2570 or 320.693.9371

TERMS: Ten percent down upon signing purchase agreement, payable by cash or check. Balance due at closing within 30 days. This is a 5% buyer’s premium auction. Eric Gabrielson MN47-006, Scott Steffes MN14-51

Polled Hereford registered yearling bulls for sale.

Have had all shots. Will be semen tested, poured and fly tags before delivery.

Halter broke and broke to lead. Several heifer bulls available. Fantastic growth E.P.D.’s. Delivery available. Klages Herefords, Ortonville, MN 320-273-2163(H) 605-8800521(C)

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Real Estate Auction Thursday, April 22nd ~ 3:00 pm 3386 533rd Ave, Lafayette, MN 56054 Real Estate & Land to be sold after personal property, approximate time will be posted at magesland.com!

Location of property: Parcels 1-3: Sibley County, Alfsborg Township, Section 32, Range 29 Parcel 4: Nicollet County, Bernadotte Township, Section 9, Range 29 Total of farm: 160 total acres, approx. 147.85 acres tillable.

This property will sell as four parcels:

Parcel 1: 7.3 acre farm site Farm Site: 4 bed, 2 3/4 bath home, attached double garage, detached two stall garage, many outbuildings including: 40’ x 60’ machine shed, 34’ x 60’ barn with steel roof, 12’ x 14’ granary, 26’ x 36’ corn crib and two grain bins.

Parcel 2: 32.7 total acres, approx. 30.93 acres tillable Productivity Index: 91.5

Parcel 3: 40 total acres, approx. 38.77 acres tillable Productivity Index: 90

Parcel 4: 80 total acres, approx. 78.15 acres tillable Productivity Index: 91.5

Note: All acres & maps are published based on Nicollet & Sibley Co Online & FSA records.

Personal Property:

Antiques & Household: 26” Vizio flat screen TV w/ swivel mount; 36” Toshiba Regza flat screen TV; Whirlpool dehumidifier; Homak gun safe; 55” x 65” quilt; August Schell Brewing wooden crate; chicken nests; antique clocks; tea pot on stand w/ side handle; coffee grinder; radios; glass medicine bottles; chest; vintage clocks, furniture; Tools, Lawn & Garden: sprayer on cart, 30’ boom; 300 gal fuel barrel on stand; two-wheel trailer; lawn sweep; Kenmore gas grill; zero gravity lawn chairs; patio furniture; Delta Model 36-220 type III, 10” compound miter saw; Paslode pneumatic nail gun; Northern Ind. air tools nail gun; Makita circle saw; Worx 6.5 Amp BlockBuster Hammer Drill; Rockwell jaw-stand; assortment of hand tools, power tools & lawn tools;

Ronald & Barbara Dietl Michael Dietl

Listing Auctioneer: Matt Mages, 507-276-7002 Lic 52-20-018 Broker: Mages Land Co. & Auction Service, LLC Terms: No Buyers Premium. View all terms online!

magesland.com

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

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

MANDAKO 12’-60’ LONG ROLLERS

FOR THE BEST DEAL ORDER NOW!

GREENWALD FARM CENTER Greenwald, MN • 320-987-3177 14 miles So. of Sauk Centre USED TRACTORS NEW NH T4.75, T4.90, T4.120 w/loader........... On Hand NEW NH Workmaster 60, 50, 35’s/loaders........ On Hand ’14 NH T7.210 ..................................................... Coming ’14 NH T8.350 ................................................... $152,000 ’13 NH T9.610 .....................................................$159,000 ’13 NH T8.390 .................................................... $169,500 ’11 NH T8.300 ..................................................... $94,500 ’84 JD 4850 FWA ................................................. $32,000 ’83 JD 4450PS W/148 LOADER ......................... $34,500 Farmall 340 wf w/mower .........................................$3,000 New Massey Tractors ......................................... On Hand ’07 Massey GC2300 w/loader................................ $13,900 White 6195 FWA....................................................$45,000

TILLAGE

PLANTERS ’11 White 8831 31-15 ..................................... $78,000 ’09 White 8816 cfs .......................................... $58,000 ’05 White 8186 DF......................... avail. after season COMBINES NEW Geringhoff chopping cornhead ....................Call ’12 Gleaner S77 ..............................................$179,000 ’03 Gleaner R65 .............................................. $72,000 ’95 Gleaner R52 w/cummins ........................... $32,500 ’90 Gleaner R40 w/heads ................................ $17,500 ’89 Gleaner R60 w/both heads ........................ $15,500 Geringhoff parts & heads available

‘11 Sunflower 4412-07............................................$28,000 MISCELLANEOUS ’13 CIH 870 9-24 ................................................. $38,500 ’13 Wilrich 513 5-30 ............................................ $31,500 NEW Salford RTS Units ........................................ Call ’10 Wilrich QX2 37’ w/basket ................................... Sold NEW Unverferth Seed Tenders .............................. Call ’09 Wilrich QX2 55’5 w/bskt ............................... $34,500 NEW Westfield Augers .......................................... Call

NEW REM VRX Vacs. .......................................... Call NEW Hardi Sprayers ............................................. Call NEW NH E26C mini excavator ......................... On Hand NEW Riteway Rollers ........................................... Call NEW NH L318/L320/L328 wheeled units ........ On Hand NEW Lorenz Snowblowers ................................... Call NEW NH C327/C337/C345 track units ............. On Hand NEW Batco Conveyors ......................................... Call ‘13 L225 EH 937hrs.............................................. $33,500 NEW Brent Wagons & Grain Carts ....................... Call NEW E-Z Trail Seed Wagons ................................ Call HAY TOOLS NEW Rock Buckets & Pallet Forks ...................... Call New Disc Mowers - 107,108,109 REM 2700, Rental ................................................. Call New Disc Mower Cond. - 10’, 13’ Pre-Owned Grain Cart .................................. On Hand New Wheel Rakes - 10,12,14 New Horsch Jokers ...................................... ......... Call New NH Hay Tools - ON HAND

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021 T

SEALED BID LAND AUCTION

Swine

160 ACRES 90 TILLABLE MORRISON CTY, BELL PRAIRIE TWP, SECTION 20 CAN BE FARMED IN 2021 SUBMIT ALL BIDS TO RAY R REW

BY MAY 13, 2021

FOR SALE: Yorkshire, Hampshire, Duroc, cross bred boars, gilts & 4-H pigs.

Top quality. Excellent herd health. No PRSS. Delivery available. 320-760-0365

TOP 5 WILL BE NOTIFIED TERMS - $50,000 DOWN NON REFUNDABLE-NON CONTINGENT BALANCE DUE on JUNE 15, 2021 6% BUYERS PREMIUM

JOHN BRUTCHER, OWNER 18061 – 183rd Street Little Falls, MN 56345

TRIPLE R AUCTIONEERING

RAY R REW 507-339-1272 301 14TH AVE NW WASECA, MN. 56093 RAY R REW & RICH HAAS BROKER

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

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

Sell your livestock in The Land with a line ad. 507-345-4523

Sheep FOR SALE: 2 Reg. yearling Suffolk Rams. Elite genetics.

Morning Meadows Farm 507-789-6564

Classified line ads work!

Call 507-345-4523

AUCTION

Timed Online Estate

W8942 State Road 29 River Falls, WI 54022

OPENS: MONDAY, APRIL 5

CLOSES: TUESDAY, APRIL 13 | 7PM

2021

PAGE 26

1999 New Holland Ford 6610S

2012 New Holland L220

1998 Wilson DWH401C

CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT

Thank You For Your Business!

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

ATV’s, Snowmobiles, Boats, Recreation / Chemical/Fertilizer Accessories / Drills / Grain Carts & Gravity Boxes / Grain Handling Equipment / Hay Equipment / Heads / Livestock Equipment / Misc. Items / Mowers / Parts / Planters / Rotary Hoes / Skid Steer Loaders Sprayer / Swather / Tillage Equipment Trailers / Trucks and More!

SteffesGroup.com

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

Hwy. 14, 3 miles West of Janesville, MN

Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:00 • Sat. 7:30-Noon

Did you know... you can place your classified ad online at www.TheLandOnline.com or email theland@TheLandOnline.com

PETER HANSON ESTATE AUCTION | COLE, 715.781.8839 OR RANDY KATH AT STEFFES GROUP, 320.693.9371 OR 701.429.8894 REGISTERED WISCONSIN AUCTIONEER | STEFFES GROUP, INC. 457-53, 938382-91 | RANDY KATH WI-2789-52 ASHLEY HUHN WI-2788-52 | INTERNET BUYER’S FEE IS 10.0% CAPPED AT US $1,000.00 PER LOT COMPLETE TERMS, LOT LISTINGS AND PHOTOS AT STEFFESGROUP.COM

THE LAND — APRIL 2 /APRIL 9, 2021

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

Pets & Supplies

,FOR SALE: 9 week old pures bred collie pups, $600/each. . 507-521-2560 d y

Upcoming Issues of THE LAND Southern MN/ Northern IA April 16, 2021 April 30, 2021 May 14, 2021 May 28, 2021

Miscellaneous

, .PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS . New pumps & parts on hand. e Call Minnesota’s largest distributor HJ Olson & Company 320-974-8990 Cell - 320-212-5336 REINKE IRRIGATION Sales & Service New & Used For your irrigation needs 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073

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

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

*

Northern MN April 23, 2021 May 7, 2021 May 21, 2021 *June 4, 2021 June 18, 2021

PAGE 27

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.

Deadline is 8 days prior to publication.

Indicates early deadline, 9 days prior to publication.

418 South Second Street • Mankato, MN 56001 Phone: 507-345-4523 or 800-657-4665 Fax: 507-345-1027 Website: www.TheLandOnline.com e-mail: theland@TheLandOnline.com Ask Your Auctioneer to Place Your Auction in The Land!

ADVERTISER LISTING ADM Animal Nutrition ............................................. 3 Beck's Hybrids ......................................................... 1 Factory Home Center ............................................... 4 Generac ................................................................... 9 Greenwald Farm Center ...........................................26 Henslin Auctions, Inc. .............................................22 Kannegiesser Truck ................................................. 11 Mages Auction Service ...................................... 23, 25 Pruess Elevator, Inc. ...............................................22 Rush River Steel & Trim .........................................15 Schweiss Doors .......................................................25 Scott Buboltz ........................................................... 7 Smiths Mill Implement, Inc. ....................................26 Steffes Group .............................................. 23, 25, 26 Triple R Auction .....................................................26 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 418 S. Second Street, Mankato, MN 56001 www.thelandonline.com

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Complete Care Home Warranty COVERS ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE. $200.00 OFF + 2 FREE Months! 1-844-596-1237. Hours Mon-Thu, Sun : 9:30 am to 8:00 pm Fri : 9:30 am to 2:00 pm (all times Eastern). (MCN) Buying and selling any gold and silver items, collector coins, diamonds, gold jewelry, paying $25-$30 for silver dollars, rare currency. No collection too big. Kuehl’s Coins, Fairmont, Minnesota, 507-235-3886, 507399-9982, open 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (MCN)

PAGE 28

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

THE LAND — APRIL 2/APRIL 9, 2021

This week’s Back Roads is the work of The Land Correspondent Richard Siemers.

Schwanke’s Quonset collection

S

chwanke Tractor and Combine has had a parts business in Willmar, Minn. for over 60 years. It began as a tractor salvage business.

One day Virgil Schwanke came across a tractor he didn’t want to scrap, so he fixed it up and put it in the back of a Quonset building.

That tractor seemed to have a magnetic attraction. It was joined by more tractors — as well as trucks and cars — until the Quonset was full.

After two more Quonsets had been built and filled, Virgil thought it best to share his collection. A building was constructed to connect the three Quonsets, vehicles were arranged to allow walking aisles, and the public was welcomed in.

As the collection of an individual, it is astounding: 175 tractors, 85 cars and 24 trucks (of which eight are fire trucks).

Sprinkled among the vehicles are vintage gas pumps.

There are steam engines (the oldest item is an 1899 stationary engine) and a wall of press drills that looks like an installation in a museum of modern art.

Among the agricultural implements is a huge 1922 Minneapolis tractor — 10 feet tall, 9 feet wide, and 17 feet long. There are Farmall tractors with off-set steering wheels, Co-op branded tractors, and skeleton-like Thieman tractors. (Thiemans were sold as kits to be assembled by the farmer, who had to add the engine and trans-

Willmar, Minn.

mission.) If your interest is in a particular company, you will probably find it here.

The automobiles are equally diverse. The oldest is a 1910 Hupmobile. The 1928 Franklin has a tilt steering wheel and powered convertible top. A beautifully restored yellow and brown 1923 Anderson is one of only about a dozen in existence out of about 6,000 that were built. There is a blue Ford Model A Tudor Sedan, and two small, no-frills vehicles built by Crosley.

Minnesota car manufacturers are also represented. The 1981 HMV Freeway on display is a one-person commuter car built in Burnsville. After building 700 cars, the unsuccessful company was purchased by a St. Cloud group and redesigned as the Minikan, but that folded after 17 vehicles.

Following Virgil’s death a few years ago, the family determined to keep the museum open to the public. It is closed during the winter because the Quonsets are not heated. The museum is accessed through the main store entrance. There is a small admission charge and a gift shop.

Explore their website, www. schwanketractor.com, for museum information and its 2021 opening date; a complete list of the vehicles on display; and a short video featuring Virgil Schwanke. You can also find them on Facebook, and at their blog, http://schwankemuseum.blogspot.com. v

Page 4 - April 2/April 9, 2021

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

Insulate your HOG barn:

© 2021

April 2/April 9, 2021 (800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com theland@TheLandOnline.com 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001

Proper insulation prevents condensation and rust.

greener world solutions CALL E HEDUL TO SC E A FRE ATE ESTIM

855-612-8038 www.greenerworldsolutions.com A Minnesota Family-Owned Business

MN LIC BC639351

S P O SH S N R BA S D E SH S E M HO

SPRAY FOAM INSULATION

greener world solutions CALL E HEDUL TO SC E A FRE ATE ESTIM

855-612-8038 www.greenerworldsolutions.com A Minnesota Family-Owned Business

www.greenerworldsolutions.com

MN LIC BC639351

Page 2 - April 2/April 9, 2021

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

April 2/April 9, 2021 - Page 3

Insulate your BEEF barn:

Insulate your DAIRY barn:

Spray foam prevents condensation and rust.

Spray foam prevents condensation and rust.

Call for more info:

Call for more info:

855-612-8038 33908 128th Street Waseca, MN 56093 www.greenerworldsolutions.com

MN LIC BC639351

855-612-8038 33908 128th Street Waseca, MN 56093 www.greenerworldsolutions.com

MN LIC BC639351

Page 2 - April 2/April 9, 2021

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

April 2/April 9, 2021 - Page 3

Insulate your BEEF barn:

Insulate your DAIRY barn:

Spray foam prevents condensation and rust.

Spray foam prevents condensation and rust.

Call for more info:

Call for more info:

855-612-8038 33908 128th Street Waseca, MN 56093 www.greenerworldsolutions.com

MN LIC BC639351

855-612-8038 33908 128th Street Waseca, MN 56093 www.greenerworldsolutions.com

MN LIC BC639351

Page 4 - April 2/April 9, 2021

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

Insulate your HOG barn:

© 2021

April 2/April 9, 2021 (800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com theland@TheLandOnline.com 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001

Proper insulation prevents condensation and rust.

greener world solutions CALL E HEDUL TO SC E A FRE ATE ESTIM

855-612-8038 www.greenerworldsolutions.com A Minnesota Family-Owned Business

MN LIC BC639351

S P O SH S N R BA S D E SH S E M HO

SPRAY FOAM INSULATION

greener world solutions CALL E HEDUL TO SC E A FRE ATE ESTIM

855-612-8038 www.greenerworldsolutions.com A Minnesota Family-Owned Business

www.greenerworldsolutions.com

MN LIC BC639351