THE LAND ~ June 4, 2021 ~ Northern Edition

“Since 1976, Where Farm and Family Meet”

©

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

May 28, 2021 June 4, 2021

YOUR SOURCE FOR INSEASON SEED NEEDS. AGRONOMY, PRODUCTS AND SUPPORT.

800.937.2325

Small town, big sale...

Dick Hagen hunts for bargains in Porter, Minn.

PLUS: Karen Schwaller on Memorial Day Renae Vander Schaaf on letter writing Kent Thiesse on CRP ... and more!

PAGE 2

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

How long do we have?

418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56001 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XL ❖ No. 11 24 pages, 1 section plus supplements

www.TheLandOnline.com facebook.com/TheLandOnline twitter.com/TheLandOnline

Cover photo by Dick Hagen

COLUMNS Opinion Life on the Farm: Readers’ Photos Farm and Food File Table Talk From My Farmhouse Kitchen The Bookworm Sez Farm Programs From The Fields Mielke Market Weekly Marketing Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads

2-4 3 4 5 6 8 12 13 14 16-17 19-23 23 24

STAFF

Publisher: Steve Jameson: sjameson@mankatofreepress.com General Manager: Deb Petterson: dpetterson@TheLandOnline.com Managing Editor: Paul Malchow: editor@TheLandOnline.com Staff Writer: Kristin Kveno: kkveno@thelandonline.com Staff Writer Emeritus: Dick Hagen: rdhagen35@gmail.com Advertising Representatives:

Joan Streit: (507) 344-6379, jstreit@thelandonline.com

Deb Petterson: dpetterson@TheLandOnline.com Office/Advertising Assistants:

Joan Compart: theland@TheLandOnline.com

Lyuda Shevtsov: auctions@thelandonline.com For Customer Service Concerns:

(507) 345-4523, (800) 657-4665, theland@TheLandOnline.com

Fax: (507) 345-1027 For Editorial Concerns or Story Ideas:

(507) 344-6342, (800) 657-4665, editor@TheLandOnline.com Because of the nature of articles appearing in The Land, product or business names may be included to provide clarity. This does not constitute an endorsement of any product or business. Opinions and viewpoints expressed in editorials or by news sources are not necessarily those of the management.

The Publisher shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. The Publisher’s liability for other errors or omissions in connection with an advertisement is strictly limited to publication of the advertisement in any subsequent issue or the refund of any monies paid for the advertisement.

Classified Advertising: $19.99 for seven (7) lines for a private classified, each additional line is $1.40; $24.90 for business classifieds, each additional line is $1.40. Classified ads accepted by mail or by phone with VISA, MasterCard, Discover or American Express. Classified ads can also be sent by e-mail to theland@TheLandOnline.com. Mail classified ads to The Land, 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001. Please include credit card number, expiration date and your postal address with ads sent on either mail version. Classified ads may also be called into (800) 657-4665. Deadline for classified ads is 5 pm on the Friday prior to publication date, with holiday exceptions. Distributed to farmers in all Minnesota counties and northern Iowa, as well as on The Land’s website. Each classified ad is separately copyrighted by The Land. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

Subscription and Distribution: Free to farmers and agribusinesses in Minnesota and northern Iowa. $49 per year for non-farmers and people outside the service area. The Land (USPS 392470) Copyright © 2021 by The Free Press Media is published biweekly by The Free Press, 418 S 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001-3727. Business and Editorial Offices: 418 S. 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001-3727, Accounting and Circulation Offices: Steve Jameson, 418 S 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001-3727. Call (507) 345-4523 to subscribe. Periodicals postage paid at Mankato, MN. Postmaster and Change of Address: Send address changes to The Land, 418 South Second St., Mankato MN 56001-3727 or e-mail to theland@ TheLandOnline.com.

As ‘staff writer emeritus’ of The Land, I them; the more there will be. No, I don’t have the opportunity to indulge on most call it hopeless; but a slowdown certainly any topic and the freedom to seek any is in order.” relevant source of information. As you With that common round table sense, I regular readers of The Land already decided to borrow more wisdom from know, a frequent info source for me is cofAlexander Tyler, a Scottish history profee at the ‘round table’ at the Chatterbox fessor at the University of Edinburg. In Café in Olivia, Minn. Yes, virtually every 1787, Tyler said this: “A democracy is rural community, Minnesota and elsealways temporary in nature; it simply where, has its own intelligence center LAND MINDS cannot exist as a permanent form of govwhere ‘selected seniors’ gather to solve ernment.”

By Dick Hagen world problems. At the Chatterbox, we’re So then what, I wondered? His comdubbed the “Intelligence Center of ment back in 1787: “A democracy will Renville County” … and who am I to exist until voters discover they can dispute such a title? vote themselves generous gifts from the public treaSo referring to the amazing diversity in America’s sury. From that moment on, the majority vote for current political environment, I’ve asked my round the candidates who promise the most benefits from table crew, “How long can we survive?” Bingo, the public treasury — with the result that every heads start shaking; hands start thumping the table democracy will finally collapse due to loose fiscal top — simply because each of the six to eight of us policy, which is always followed by a dictatorship.” certainly has an opinion.

You’ve heard this before: Professor Tyler contends, Without sharing last names, here’s retired farmer “The average age of the world’s greatest civilizations Jim: “This spending spree simply can’t survive. I’m from the beginning of history has been about 200 embarrassed the debt we’re hanging on our grandyears. During those 200 years, those nations prochildren. Already I’m feeling the squeeze on my gressed through the following sequence: 1, From own assets and now concerned about my son who is bondage to spiritual faith; 2, From spiritual faith to now farming.” great courage; 3, From courage to liberty; 4, From libRetired banker Tom comments, “I’ve seen farmers erty to abundance; 5, From abundance to complacenstruggle over the years getting ready for retirement. cy; 6, From complacency to apathy; 7, From apathy to But today some simply shake their heads and ask dependence; 8, From dependence back to bondage.” me ‘is it worth the effort?’ Today I hesitate attemptI took this assessment back to the round table. ing my own answer.”

They pretty much agree this professor was on target Successful farmer Bob adds, “Over the years I’ve concerning the future of America’s democracy. I was built up quite a few acres. Yes, a few slide backs too, pleased to hear agreement on spiritual faith to great but the past couple of years some real strength in courage is most needed right now. But my guys this farm income situation. And I think a pretty totally agree with stage 5: From abundance to comsolid financial future for my son now running the placency is steering America right now. And so do I. show. However, without family takeovers, who’s To me, ‘too-much government’ is America’s dilemma going to be able to call the shots in the future?” right now. After nearly 60 years working in America’s John, a retired school teacher, candidly admits the agricultural industry, I’m pretty much history. Yes, teachers’ union — especially here in Minnesota — I’m an Army veteran and a 14-year U.S. Army reservcontinues to be “pretty good” in political efforts for ist; proud to be parent of a West Point Military retiring educators. “You call it a spending spree, but Academy graduate; and now have a grandson who is look at the revenue being pumped into America’s also a student at West Point. So yes, I’m very conrevenue streams also. Besides, I’m not ignoring you cerned about the political future of America. Yes, I’m farm guys … I read and hear about the various counting on the 2022 U.S. political election to restore farm program subsidies rolled out to you guys. And political balance for America; and the 2024 election that’s why I jokingly comment when you come to to put a Republican back in the White House. the round table complaining about these likely new So how long do we have? You be the judge. tax consequences. I say, there must be a farm proThe views expressed in this column are not necesgram covering that too!” sarily the opinion or policy of The Land. Dick Hagen Long-time semi truck driver Lenny shrugs, is the staff writer emeritus of The Land. He may be “Nothing unusual about the climbing cost of govern- reached at rdhagen35@gmail.com. v ment these days. And the more we keep on feeding

OPINION

Letters to the editor are always welcome.

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.

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

Life on the Farm: Readers’ Photos

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

PAGE 3

Rural folk are fairly busy these days and are more concerned with seedlings than snapping pictures. But our loyal contributor Al Batt of Hartland, Minn. gives us a steady supply of great wildlife shots – for instance, these red fox kits who look ready to leave the den and go exploring. If there are cattails near, chances are you will find red winged blackbirds. The female is on the left and the male is on the right.

Larson is the lucky drawing winner Keith Larson (right) of Amboy, Minn. was the lucky winner of The Land’s subscriber giveaway prize of $400. All subscribers of The Land who submitted a completed subscription form for 2021 by March 5 were eligible for the prize. Presenting Larson with his prize is The Land General Manager Deb Petterson Larson and his wife Debi have been married for 38 years and grow corn and soybeans. His parents still live on the family farm.

“The crops are in, everything went great,” Larson exclaimed. “But it’s very dry.”

E-mail your Life on the Farm photos to editor@thelandonline.com.

In addition to farming, Larson works for Rural Community Insurance Services. He and Debi have two sons and a daughter and three grandchildren. One son helps on the farm.

The Missing Pieces to Reach

AG Decision Makers

AUGUST 3–5, 2021

REDWOOD COUNTY, MINNESOTA

AUGUST 17–19, 2021 MITCHELL, SOUTH DAKOTA

Connect with Farmers and Ranchers at the largest farm shows in Minnesota and South Dakota.

CALL TODAY to reserve your space: 800.827.8007.

Visit Farmfest.com or Dakotafest.com for more details.

Exhibit space offered based on availability.

PAGE 4

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

Beware of philosopher kings and prophets of ‘synthetic alternatives’ Shortly after America’s largest private If their “transitional” and “recreational” farmland owners, Microsoft billionaires acres are added in, the Gateses own Bill and Melinda Gates, acknowledged 268,984 acres. their pending divorce, some wag on According to The Land Report, most of Twitter wondered what might be the it was acquired through Cascade appropriate time to wait before he Investments LLC, a private, Washington approached the soon-to-be-former missus state-based firm which handles both the to ask about renting some of her farmland.

Gates family’s personal investments and While he was joking, it’s no joke that FARM & FOOD FILE those of the $50-billion Gates the about-to-split pair owns the largest Foundation, a global philanthropic effort

By Alan Guebert amount of working farmland in the dedicated to fight “poverty, disease, and nation. According to the Winter 2020 inequity.” issue of The Land Report, a quarterly Much of the land, mostly purchased magazine which tracks U.S. land sales, in the last decade, lies in the South: Bill and Melinda Gates now own 242,000 acres of 69,071 acres in Louisiana, 47,927 acres in Arkansas, farmland worth “more than $690 million.”

16,963 acres in Mississippi, and 14,828 in Florida.

Gates himself went even further about his views on plant-based meats in a February interview with MIT Technology Review, according to the website Ag Funder News. In it, “Gates argued that higher-income societies should completely replace their consumption of cattle-derived beef with ‘synthetic’ alternatives.”

He did add that he “doesn’t think poorest… countries will be eating synthetic meat.” Even so, “…all rich countries should move to 100 percent synthetic beef.”

From an agronomic point of view, however, most regenerative or sustainable farming systems require a livestock component — oftentimes cattle — as a key element in most farm’s successful and profitable multi-year, multi-crop rotations.

When asked on the social media platform Reddit Livestock or not, Gates believes he’s backing a in late March why farmland and why now, Bill winner. “…(P)lant-based protein makers like Gates first deflected: “My investment group,” preImpossible Foods and Beyond Meat ‘have [a] quality sumably Cascade, “chose to do this. It is not conroad map and cost road map that makes them totalnected to climate.” But he quickly pivoted to what ly competitive’” with animal protein, he told the sounded more like Gates Foundation strategy than Reddit audience. a Gates family farm plan.

His family’s fabulous personal wealth, the Gates “The agriculture sector is important,” he Foundation’s commitment to funding research into explained. “With more productive seeds we can seed, plant, and food technology, and now its avoid deforestation and help Africa deal with the immense landholdings will make this self-anointed climate difficulty they already face. It is unclear philosopher king a player in the future of farming how cheap biofuels can be, but if they are cheap it and food. can solve the aviation and truck emissions.”

That power, however, should worry farmers everyFighting climate change in Africa and solving “the where, noted Nick Estes, an assistant professor at aviation and truck emissions” thing aren’t the focus the University of New Mexico, in an April 5 column of many American farmers or any American policy- in The Guardian. makers.

“The principal danger of private farmland owners Still, if your net worth exceeds $140 billion and like Bill Gates,” explained Estes, “is not their proyou own 378 square miles of farmland, reality tends fessed support of sustainable agriculture often to be what you say it is. found in philanthropic work — it’s the monopolistic role they play in determining our food systems and Cascade Investments did tell The Land Report it is “very supportive of sustainable agriculture” and it land use patterns.” has invested Gates’ money in “plant-based protein Just ask Microsoft competitors about “monopoliscompanies Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods…” tic” roles in computer software — if you can find any.

The two companies make no bones about their zeal to, as Beyond Meat touts on its website, shift The Farm and Food File is published weekly “from animal to plant-based meat” so “we can posithrough the United States and Canada. Past coltively impact four growing global issues: human umns, events and contact information are posted at health, climate change, constraints on natural www.farmandfoodfile.com. v resources, and animal welfare.”

OPINION

30 COLORS

26-29 GAUGE Standard all around durability

30 COLORS

26-29 GAUGE Standing seam architecture look for half the price

30 COLORS

26-29 GAUGE Residential and round roof applications

Training for home-based food operators 30 COLORS

26 GAUGE

Commercial and Perlin applications

HAMPTON, Iowa — Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offers online training in food safety, food preparation and Iowa regulations designed specifically for cottage food producers.

Modules are available online 24/7 and will address Iowa regulations and licensing and food safety procedures from preparation to the point of sale. The courses cover Iowa policies and regulations, food safety basics, foodborne pathogens, foods that do

and do not require temperature control, and safe production and preparation practices.

Interested food operators may register online at http://bit.ly/hbf15209. The training cost is $35.00.

For more information, contact Shannon Coleman at scoleman@iastate.edu or (515) 294-9011.

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

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

PAGE 5

In memory: ‘On behalf of a grateful nation…’

There isn’t a person I the front of the church — know who relishes the some of whom would carry thought of facing a military him to his final resting representative, receiving a place. It’s tough to sit at folded flag, and hearing the grandpa’s funeral. The words, “…on behalf of a memories, while comforting, grateful nation…” are also painful. Those same memories would, in We are so busy living our time, become a true healing lives that we don’t often TABLE TALK balm. take time to reflect on those who spent some of their The pastor at the man’s

By Karen Schwaller lives making sure we could funeral made quite a link do that, and do it without between the man’s work thinking about it. and what God does for all of us: serving us and repairing/healing our But we should think about it. wounds. It was quite an illuminating The father of one of my good friends connection comparison between was laid to rest in on a cold day in God and man.

February. I learned a lot about him When the funeral was over, it that day. I didn’t know he served his was time to take him a few miles country — our country — and that he to his final resting place. The was a member of the American Legion. escort was led and followed by He was a busy father of six children, three sheriff’s vehicles — a tribute then lost a daughter when she was to that man who had given so only three years old. It’s a parent’s pri- much of his life to public service; vate and very personal brand of hell and to his son, who also worked for on earth. that sheriff’s department. The bonds of friendship ran deep among And yet, he went to work every day at his service and repair station, fixing the city elders. everyone else’s problems. He was At the cemetery corner, a community active in his church, his community’s fire truck stopped traffic — another fire department and ambulance crew, tribute to a man who gave so much of and was a past city councilman. All of his time to such important volunteer this, and he still found time to attend work. the activities of his grandchildren.

Waiting at the cemetery on that cold His grandchildren were sitting in day were a group of men wearing

American Legion jackets — his comrades in arms, waiting there to pay tribute to a man who understood the human cost of serving his country.

There aren’t many members of that group of elites who don’t have snow on the roof. And yet they stood respectfully, waiting in the sub-zero temperatures to give this man the respect he earned and deserved as their brother in arms.

The pastor leaned before the man’s wife and children and spoke the words he had spoken so many times before: “May your faith comfort you until you see him in heaven.”

haunting and melancholy melody. It’s only eight notes, but they bring more emotion than any other song I know. A song of honor, integrity and respect, it helps us really feel the loneliness and the true cost of protecting our country.

“Day is done; gone the sun … from the lake, from the hill, from the sky; All is well, safely rest; God is nigh.”

As we watched him being lowered into the ground, I couldn’t help but think of a seed being planted; a seed must die before it sprouts new life, and so it is with our humanity.

“Her husband is prominent at the city gates as he sits with the elders of the land.” (Proverbs The 21-gun salute snapped 31:23) The elders of his land were everyone into the reality of there at the city gates for him knowing what it means to at the end of this life, and he would soon meet the elders of have men and women risk their lives to serve and pro- the land in the next life. The worries of this life were over, tect our country. and it was time for him to rest peacefully. At 85, he lived a And then the presentation of the long and good life, though still too folded flag. “…on behalf of a grateful short. nation….”

But as for him, the song spoke truth.

The 21-gun salute snapped everyone All is well … safely rest. God is nigh. into the reality of knowing what it Karen Schwaller brings “Table Talk” means to have men and women risk to The Land from her home near their lives to serve and protect our Milford, Iowa. She can be reached at country. kschwaller@evertek.net. v Then, “Taps.” There isn’t a more

Summer field day at ISU research center planned for June 23 KANAWHA, Iowa – Micronutrients for soybean production, soybean cyst nematode management and white mold of soybean will highlight the summer field day at the Iowa State University Northern Research and Demonstration Farm near Kanawha.

The field day will take place June 23 at the farm’s north location. The event address is 310 S. Main St. in Kanawha, immediately south of town.

Registration and refreshments will start at 8:45 a.m. and the field day will begin at 9 a.m. Lunch will be served at noon and the field day will conclude at 12:45 p.m.

Greg Guenther, president of the North Central Iowa Research Association, will announce the goals of

the NCIRA. Daniel J. Robison, endowed dean’s chair of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State, will also discuss the needs of NCIRA and the need for research and extension facilities at the Iowa State outlying farms.

Antonio Mallarino, professor in agronomy and extension specialist at Iowa State, will discuss micronutrient needs of soybean production in north central Iowa.

Greg Tylka, professor in plant pathology and microbiology at Iowa State and extension specialist in soybean cyst nematodes, will discuss current research and recommendations for the management of soybean cyst nematode.

Daren Mueller, associate professor in plant pathology and microbiology and extension plant pathologist, will discuss the management of white mold in soybean production.

A panel on crop production research needs will discuss future needs for north central Iowa and the research farm.

Topics and speakers include Erin Hodgson, professor in entomology and extension specialist in entomology at Iowa State (insect pest management);

Ryan Bergman, program coordinator with ISU Extension and Outreach (precision agriculture); Mark Licht, assistant professor in agronomy and cropping systems specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach (crop management); and Matt Helmers, professor in agricultural and bioystems engineering and extension agricultural engineering specialist at Iowa State (ag drainage and water quality needs).

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

www.TheLandOnline.com

PAGE 6

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

Letters are for reading (maybe more than once) There are some people who prefer to receive a check through the mail. There are others who get more excited over a handwritten letter or a card in the mail. I know which one puts a smile on my face. Well, to be honest, they both do.

FROM MY Real letters from actual peoFARMHOUSE ple are scarce. Thankfully, my KITCHEN birthday and Christmas hapBy Renae B. pen in two different months Vander Schaaf so I receive letters at different times of the year. Since a letter is rarer than a check, therefore it obviously has more value.

It seems to me, when my children were younger, I wrote more letters through the year. Maybe it was the need to challenge my mind to think about something else besides dolls and tractors. And there was no lack of subject matter. Not bragging here by any means, but my children were so cute and smart — they take after their father, of course!

For whatever reasons, my letter writing was dwindling down to where our stamps were becoming outdated (that is, until they came out with the Forever stamp).

It was a struggle trying to remember how many pennies, or two cent stamps we needed to use up the random stamps which showed up in the oddest places. Or even to remember the legal rate for mailing a letter. By the way, what is the current postage for a letter?

But last winter I was inspired by a friend who told

me she writes a letter every day because there are lonely people out there — especially when everyone was scared to leave their home. That prompted me to come up with a list of people who probably could use a letter.

Because if I get excited over one, maybe they would too.

My letter writing never reached my goal, but it did get me a few telephone calls from people who were happy to get a letter. And I liked talking with them. It was nice to know my letter was read.

Sometimes my letters were a page or two long, written on notebook paper, or it was a short note sent in a fun hello card (there are many cute ones of those). Other times, a birthday card, get well card or a heartfelt sympathy card was sent.

This week I will be sending sympathy cards to a bereaved husband, his two young sons and his wife’s parents. A young woman was killed on her Nebraska ranch in one of those tragic accidents involving a UTV. She had attended college here and we got to know her because she came to our church and joined us for many Sunday dinners.

She was a sweet girl who excelled in all she undertook, actually inducted into the college Hall of Fame six years after graduation.

When she was in the third grade she was given a

letter to read by her teacher. All the students were told to read and make notes. My young friend did, and it changed her life. She now lived to glorify God; because, you see, the letter she was given was the New Testament.

The Bible is God’s love letter to us. In it He reminds us that before we were even born, He knew us. He pays so much attention to us that even the very hairs on our heads are numbered.

God sees all that we do. When we ask, He will forgive us our sins and give us eternal life.

He watches over us, even holding us in the palm of His hands.

We can trust Him because He will never forsake us.

She didn’t know she was only going to live 32 years before she would be called to her eternal home. I am so glad she read and mediated on the words in this letter from God. The Bible was her guide to living a life that pleased God. Psalm 119:105 “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

Renae B. Vander Schaaf is an independent writer, author and speaker. Contact her at (605) 530-0017 or agripen@live.com. v

Crop insurance benefits for producers with cover crops WASHINGTON, D.C. — Agricultural producers who have coverage under most crop insurance policies are eligible for a premium benefit from the U.S. Department of Agriculture if they planted cover crops during this crop year. The Pandemic Cover Crop Program (PCCP), offered by USDA’s Risk Management Agency, helps farmers maintain their cover crop systems, despite the financial challenges posed by the pandemic.

The PCCP is part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative, a bundle of programs to bring financial assistance to farmers, ranchers and producers who felt the impact of COVID-19 market disruptions.

PCCP provides premium support to producers who insured their spring crop with most insurance policies and planted a qualifying cover crop during the 2021 crop year. The premium support is $5 per acre, but no more than the full premium owed.

Illinois, Indiana and Iowa have existing programs for producers to receive a premium benefit for plant-

ing cover crops. In these states, participating producers will receive an additional benefit.

All cover crops reportable to FSA are eligible and include cereals and other grasses, legumes, brassicas and other non-legume broadleaves, and mixtures of two or more cover crop species planted at the same time.

To receive the benefit for this program, producers must file a Report of Acreage form (FSA-578) for cover crops with USDA’s Farm Service Agency by June 15, which is distinct from the normal acreage reporting date. The normal acreage reporting deadline with FSA has not changed, but to receive the premium benefit, producers must file by June 15. The cover crop fields reported on the Report of Acreage form must match what the producer reported to their insurance company for crop insurance policies. To file the form, producers must contact and make an appointment with their local USDA Service Center.

Certain policies are not eligible because they have underlying coverage, which would already receive the benefit or are not designed to be reported in a

manner consistent with the Report of Acreage form (FSA-578). PCCP is not available for Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, Enhanced Coverage Option, Hurricane Insurance Protection – Wind Index, and Supplemental Coverage Option. Stacked Income Protection (STAX) and Margin Protection (MP) policies are only eligible for PCCP when insured as a standalone policy. STAX and MP endorsements to underlying policies are not eligible for PCCP. PCCP does not change acreage reporting dates, reporting requirements, or any other terms of the crop insurance policy.

Meanwhile, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has made the determination not to update its conservation practice standard for cover crops. The latest version of the conservation practice standard can be found in the Field Office Technical Guide under Section IV, Conservation Practices and Supporting Documents, by State.

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

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

PAGE 7

Chuck Wingert honored by peers as company enters merger

By PAUL MALCHOW age systems. “By 1985 were spending so The Land Managing Editor much time with farmers’ tiling and erosion control needs, we started doing land sales,” “Oh, give me land, lots of land under he recalled. “Today, four times the land is starry skies above being operated than in 1980. There is simDon’t fence me in.” ply not enough land to satisfy the demand.”

— Cole Porter In recognition for Wingert’s dedication MANKATO, Minn. — No matter how to his profession, he recently received the you look at it, 6,500 acres is a lot of land national 2020 Land Realtor of America — fences or not. In 2020, Wingert Realty award at the Realtor’s Land Institute & Land Services, Inc. found buyers for 60 national land conference. “I haven’t seen different parcels of land totaling in the the hardware yet,” Wingert laughed. “The neighborhood of 6,500 acres. And as most conference was all virtual. I was very people will attest to, 2020 was not a great pleased to be chosen. In our industry, this year. Wingert Realty will typically handle is a big deal.”

75 to 95 transactions in a year.

Wingert served as president of the “Covid-19 impacted every aspect of sociRealtor’s Land Institute in 2013. ety in 2020, and the market for land was Wingert recently had other big news to no exception,” said broker Charles “Chuck” share: On May 1, Wingert Realty & Land Wingert. “Purchasers were active in early Services merged with Hertz Farm spring, but took a wait-and-see approach Management, Inc. as the year wore on. Even high-quality Founded in 1946, Hertz Farm farms struggled to find buyers. Sellers Management specializes in professional also decided to hold back until the negaPhoto by Paul Malchow farm management, farm real estate sales, tivity in the marketplace subsided.”

Files on Charles “Chuck” Wingert’s desk testify to the interest in land in 2021. Low interfarmland auctions (live and online), land Wingert Realty’s sales figures show est rates and rebounding grain markets create more competition for available parcels. acquisitions, and farm appraisals. With 15 nearly half of 2020 transactions took offices throughout the Midwest, Hertz manages over Wingert added land values stayed primarily flat place by April; only seven were closed from May 2,800 farms consisting of more than 625,000 acres. through August. But Wingert said properties which from 2019. Top-quality tiled land sold in the $8,000 Wingert’s Mankato office will expand services to had been in limbo during the summer were quickly to $9,000 per acre range with the majority of acreage include farmland sales and auctions, valuations, landing in the $6,000 to $8,000 range.

Parcels with sold. “Expansion farmers and investors aggressively creeks, marshland and/or wooded acreage garnered a appraisals, and farm management while continuing came back into the market,” Wingert said. wide range of prices; most falling in the $3,000 to to serve landowners across Minnesota and the northIt is interesting to note that only about two-thirds $5,000 per acre range. ern region of the Corn Belt. Along with Chuck, of Wingert’s 2020 sales went to established farmers Wingert credits online land auctions with boosting Wingert’s staff includes Darrell Hylen, Rick Hauge, looking to expand while the other third were acquired Geoff Mead, Adam Knewtson, Nick Meixell, Sara by investors. “The internet really opens up the mar- land prices 10 to 30 percent above seller expectations Strande, and Andrea Thomas. ket to land investors,” explained Wingert. “It’s a safe or appraisal. “Expansion farmers cite a profitable “Wingert’s strong reputation and philosophy of proinvestment, although with a lower return. Low inter- 2020, low interest rates and the opportunity to lock viding knowledgeable, personalized service to farmin profitable prices for 2021 as their motivation to est rates have allowed developers to sell their past inventory of lots and are now acquiring farmland expand,” he said. “Investors cite their desire to repo- land owners, dovetails perfectly with the Hertz phisition stock market profits into land and purchase losophy of caring for and serving farmland owners,” near many cities for housing development.” land ahead of the inflationary cycle they feel is just said Doug Hensley, President of Hertz Real Estate Nearly all of Wingert Realty’s 2020 sales were around the corner.”

Services. “We are very excited to welcome Chuck and under 200 acres in size, and half of the year’s sales Chuck Wingert has seen many ups and downs in land his team into our Hertz family, and we look forward were parcels under 100 acres. “In our area especially, to the new opportunities it provides for everyone ravines really cut up the lots,” said Wingert. “Plus, realty during his career. Wingert Realty opened its involved, including staff members, as well as current doors in 1976 as a surveying company designing drainpeople with 1,000 to 2,000 acres aren’t selling.” and future clients.” v

Join The Land Online!

Facebook.com/TheLandOnline Twitter.com/TheLandOnline Instagram@thelandmagazineonline

PAGE 8

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

Don’t wait for the dog days of summer to enjoy these books Your pooch is a first-class mess maker.

Another lost dog, a “A Dog’s Courage” “Dogwinks” wee Westie, makes But what are you gonna do? A clean his way thirty blocks by W. Bruce Cameron by SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt house won’t love you, play ball, snuggle in downtown New c.2021, Forge Books c.2020, Howard Books / Atria on the sofa, or take you for a walk. You York City, a miracle can’t teach a clean house cool new tricks $26.99 / $36.50 Canada $19.99 / $26.99 Canada inside “a bilingual and it can’t teach you, either. So this 288 pages 285 pages dogwink!” summer, ignore the mess, and grab one of these great books about dogs...

You know how you Before we get to the secTHE BOOKWORM sometimes feel pressed for time during If you’ve ever loved a pup who had an ond book here, there’s SEZ the summer, and a book seems like a unknown past, you know how much she something you need to big committment?

“Dogwinks” is what appreciates her new home. When Bella

By Terri Schlichenmeyer know first. you need. Each of the stories inside this becomes lost in the wilderness and is resbook are short; most are a few pages “Godwinks” are what cued and adopted by Lucas and Olivia, long and quick to read. Best of all, author SQuire Rushnell and Louise she’s very relieved and happy. But in “A Dog’s they’re uplifting, inspirational, and DuArt calls those positive nudges Courage” by W. Bruce Cameron, a dog like Bella appropriate for dog lovers ages 12-toand maybe-not-so-coincidental little never forgets her past. adult. “messages” of encouragement that we Even so, she surely enjoyed her new people though humans sometimes get from beyond.

If these books don’t seem like a good she sometimes couldn’t understand the words they With that in mind, Rushnell asks if fit for you, then ask your favorite were using. Camping with them was different than it’s possible that God uses dogs to librarian or bookseller. They’ll have being in the wild alone, but Bella was getting used suggestions for you because, when it to that, too. And then one weekend, while on such a send those messages. In his new book, “Dogwinks,” he offers stories to convince you... comes to books about dogs, there’s a mess of good trip, the brush near their campsite exploded in ones out there.

When Ruby, half of an awesome K-9 team, finds a flames, there was so much confusion, and Bella was little boy, her save is a Godwink to her handler, the separated from her people, as she was once before.

Look for the reviewed book at a bookstore or a boy, and the child’s family. As Liz says goodbye to library near you. You may also find the book at Desperately wanting to return to Lucas and her beloved Ginger, the dog she’s had for much of online book retailers.

Olivia, Bella begins to search for them when she her life, there’s a knock on the door and she’s handfinds a friend from her past, who leaves Bella with The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has a responsibility. This gives her two options: stay, and ed a Godwink that comforts her. A dog lost becomes been reading since she was 3 years old and never a dog found at the worst of times, a Godwink to the accept this new burden; or find the people she’s goes anywhere without a book. She lives in children in his family when they need it most. come to love.

Wisconsin with three dogs and 10,000 books. v

Dicamba must not be applied to soybeans after June 30

ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture urges pesticide applicators to take special care while applying dicamba products this growing season. To prevent off-target movement, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has made substantial changes to the 2021 dicamba labels specifically related to application cutoff date, buffer distances, and record keeping requirements. The MDA is reminding users the label is the law.

For the 2021 growing season, applicators may use the three dicamba products, XtendiMax, Engenia, and Tavium, on dicamba tolerant soybeans until June 30. The federal label prohibits applications of these three dicamba products after June 30 to dicamba-tolerant soybeans.

Regardless of cutoff date, applications are prohibited after V4 growth stage for Tavium and after R1 stage for XtendiMax. Additionally, the labels require a 240-foot downwind buffer and prohibits applications if the wind is blowing towards an adjacent sensitive crop. Sensitive crops include, but are not limited to, non-dicamba-tolerant soybeans, sugar beets, tomatoes, fruiting vegetables, fruit trees, cucurbits, grapes, beans, flowers, ornamentals, peas, potatoes, sunflower, and other broadleaf plant crops.

Only certified applicators can legally purchase and use these formulations of dicamba because they are classified as “Restricted Use Pesticides.” The label has extensive and detailed requirements for recordkeeping, and the applicator must create these records within 72 hours of the application. The MDA expects all users of these dicamba products to have fully completed records in accordance with the federal label requirements. Enforcement will be taken for any violations of the product label.

The following guidelines and resources can help applicators prevent off-target movement while applying dicamba: Do not apply XtendiMax, Engenia, or Tavium on soybeans if you have not attended the auxin/dicamba mandatory training offered by dicamba registrants Bayer, BASF or Syngenta.

To help applicators, the MDA has developed a video presentation as part of the mandatory dicamba training. This video is not a substitute for the required training.

Applicators must consult applicable sensitive crop registries, such as DriftWatch, to identify any commercial specialty or certified organic crops which may be located near the application site. Applicators

are also required to survey the site for neighboring non-target sensitive crops before spraying. Be sure to consult with your neighbors before spraying dicamba products.

If the wind is blowing in the direction of a sensitive crop, do not spray until the wind has changed direction. Spraying is forbidden in these circumstances — even with a buffer.

Do not spray during a temperature inversion. Only spray between one hour after sunrise and two hours before sunset.

Finally, remember that avoiding spray drift at the application site is the responsibility of the applicator.

The spray system and weather-related factors determine the potential for spray drift. The applicator is responsible for considering these factors when making application decisions to avoid spray drift onto non-target areas.

Frequently asked questions about dicamba can be found on the MDA website, https://www.mda.state. mn.us.

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

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

PAGE 9

Street sale offers plenty of variety for bargain hunters

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus Seeing is believing. Those words never truer until you attend the annual Porter, Minn. Street Sale (which my wife and I did on April 17).

Yes indeed, this small Minnesota community (population about 240) swells to overflowing as hundreds flock to Porter for the event. (Porter is located in Yellow Medicine County, about 26 miles northwest of Marshall.)

“We call it our National Holiday,” says Charley Anderson, innocuous Porter Street Sale Manager. His ‘real life’ job is administrative assistant at Sanford Home Health in nearby Canby. I asked Charley if he knew how this ‘national holiday’ came into being? “I don’t really know,” he admitted. “I remember my Dad talking about this when I was just a kid … and that was some 30 years ago.”

What’s the big attraction? Two words explain its continued success: Photos by Dick Hagen Street Sale. And apparently, there are In addition to yard and garage sales galore, a large auction dominates the festivities at the Porter no restrictions on items for sale.

Street Sale — dubbed the town’s “National Holiday.”

Streets filled with everything imagin-

able. At a quick glance it seems quite obvious area farmers use the Porter Street Sale as their opportunity to clean out machine sheds of anything/ everything no longer needed. Much the same for area residents. The sale features an incredible amount of household furniture, kitchen equipment, kids toys — even lawn and garden stuff … your choice of lawnmowers too.

So what to do? Just start meandering, looking, chatting, even catching a coffee and burger if hungry. I noted three enterprising food and beverage counters with gas-fired grills in action. Plus, Porter has a great coffee/ pastry shop too. For me, this Porter Street Sale is a bonanza. So with cell phone camera and Sony recorder I set forth. The temperature was in mid 40’s; weather was cool, cloudy; about perfect for my safari.

My first stop was a young guy with two feather-filled containers on the ground beside him. His name is Kory Tebben and in those two cages at his See STREET SALE, pg. 10

CALL NOW TO GET YOUR PROJECT ON OUR 2021 CALENDAR

SIOUX STEEL GRAIN STORAGE

• SCREENLESS! Don’t waste time/money constantly unplugging screens.

• 1-2 lbs heavier test weight per bushel than screen dryers.

Savings that add up!

• Computerized moisture control prevents over-drying. Save up to 9-cents per bushel!

• Remote monitoring eliminates times and expense of “dryer watching” • Effectively dries all types of grain. They only dryer you’ll ever need!

The Only Bins In The Industry Designed For Grains Weighing Up To 64 lb/bushel!

• At 60-70 decibels, nearly 50% quieter than axial format.

(The industry standard is just 60lb/bushel. Includes farm & Commercial Bins.)

Brad Krumrey, Owner 320-979-9221 Buffalo Lake, MN (320) 833-2228 www.ksmillwrights.com CRANE SERVICE 24 HR REPAIR SERVICE

PromPt Professional service

and

REPAIR of all your GRAIN HANDLING EQUIPMENT We can:

24-hr. Emergency Service!

Site Prep • Tile Repair • Silo Removal • Demo and Grove Removal Driveway Layout/Construction • Trucking/Hauling of Aggregate Materials

RepaiR & Replace leg Belts & conveyoR Belts • augeR RepaiR • DRag conveyoR RepaiRs • Bin RepaiRs • poRtaBle WelDing • stRuctuRal RepaiRs • geaR Box RepaiR & Replacement DRyeR RepaiRs • BeaRing Replacement

PAGE 10

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

Street Sale rebounded nicely after taking 2020 off for Covid-19 STREET SALE, from pg. 9

too. He started the Tyler newspaper. “I’ve worked in newspapers in feet were six guinea hens. He Le Sueur and St. Peter, Minn.; and raises about 100 each season for Sibley, Iowa, so I’ve been around.” sale, much like broilers for tasty Street sales might be his hobby food servings. His asking price too. “I was at a street auction in was $15 each for a six-pound bird.

Ceylon, Minn. last week and it We didn’t see anyone else offering was much bigger than this Porter guineas for sale. sale … lots more machinery. They With two auctioneering rigs started at sunrise and they were made up of pickups with PA sysstill selling at dusk I’m told.” tems, the auction chanting began Still moseying down the street, at 9 a.m.

Eugene Lorenzen an Arctic Cat 800 snowmobile was Auctioneering Services of Gary, being called. The auctioneer startS.D. was conducting the sale. ed with a $500 call, but no takers, When we left at about 3 p.m. so he quickly back-peddled down there was still scads left to be to $200. The winning bid was sold. The final shutdown was 7 Diane and Harold Kruckman are veterans of the Porter sale. Diane’s big score this year was this rooster $250. I had a brief visit with aucp.m. and I haven’t any idea of how which will keep the Kruckmans’ chickens company. tioneer Kory Bork. This was his many items were sold. Anderson first call.

He learned the trade through online studies didn’t know either; but did say it would be three or at Missouri Auctioneering School. “We started at four days until buyers had picked up all their newlyabout 9:30 over at the equipment area,” Bork said. acquired possessions. Five auctioneers called this “We’ve got five auctioneers here today — three in this 10-hour event. Yes, like any street auction of this ring and two at the other ring. Don’t know what time magnitude, there were some unsold items. These ‘left we’ll wrap up, but we’ll keep calling as long as we overs’ are donated to a local charity. have buyers.”

My next stop was to visit with Harold Kruckman.

“At a deal like today, if you’re not calling the bidHarold was sitting with his wife on a cozy-looking ding, you’re working the ring so it’s very much a team sofa. Much to my surprise, The Land was ‘old hat’ to effort,” Bork went on to say. “Like about 30 minutes Harold. “Back in about 2001 I was featured talking doing the actual calling, then working the ring, pickabout a feeder-house dust convertor for a John ing up bids for the caller. It’s too much for just one Deere combine,” he said. I asked if he was buying auctioneer. Inside the rig is our clerk who really the sofa they were perched upon. “No, we just works hard and fast — recording each final bid numparked here for awhile,” Harold confessed. “I’ve been Today’s lumber prices provided added value to these utility ber and the dollar amount of that final bid. Yes to maybe about 25 of these Porter Street Sales over spools and other scrap lumber up for sale. indeed, a genuine team effort is what makes this the years. Don’t always buy something, but this year Harold explained.

“We’re retired farmers, so this is work.” my wife Diane (still just a two-year rookie) came along also. And she spotted that rusty, four-foot tall just our miniature farmstead with a few chickens.

It was about time metal rooster which she decided would make a great And now this big rooster too.” for me to close down ornament alongMy next visit was with Stan Kruckman, Harold’s also; but hearing side our little 32-year-old son who designs, welds and fabricates lumber prices are chicken house. whatever his customers have in mind. Today he was skyrocketing, I had My wife is the just a buyer, but with his metal skills he could be a just walked up to an chicken lady in seller too. “We sell basically word of mouth. And assortment of barn our house.” this pandemic hasn’t slowed us down one bit,” said sidings and 2-inch Stan. thick wood cable Diane added, “I’ve always like A bit further down the street I could hear the auc- wraps with 8-foot chickens. They tioneer calling for bids on a typewriter. I was circumference — are like pets. And intrigued because a typewriter was my working stock only $5 for the pile. this metal rooster when a younger farm writer (that goes back a few But there were also will be a lawn years too). Bill Clark from Tyler, Minn. was the win- some 20-foot 2 x 4’s ornament. We let ning bidder. “I have a collection, 10 or 12 as I recall,” and the new market Kory Bork just finished auctioneer our chickens out Clark said. “My oldest is probably 100 years old. I’ve price was evident: school and was practicing his new each day; gather had Remington’s, IBM’s, Electric 2’s — which was a $90 a pile, 10 per craft as one of five callers at the Porpile. them back into swanky one.” ter sale. their house each “Attendance varI asked Clark what brought him to the Porter Street night.”

Sale? “Just hanging out,” he nonchalantly replied. ies from year to year,” Anderson admitted earlier.

“We’ve a little “I’ve been here a couple times before. It’s fun because “Last year, because of Covid, we didn’t have a sale.

3-acre site just you never have any idea; but you always know there We wondered if that threat might still be a factor. We were down somewhat from previous years, but lots of Ex-newspaper publisher Bill Clark of o u t s i d e just might be something that catches your eye.”

Tyler, Minn. found this typewriter to add good reports I’m hearing this year again.” v Montevideo,” And Clark knows about the newspaper business to his collection at home.

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

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

PAGE 11

Community garden nonprofit now manages county farm

By TIM KROHN the farm as well as tools. They will also The Free Press Mankato use some of it to buy fruit trees to plant at the farm.

MANKATO, Minn. — The Living Earth Center on Good Counsel Hill has “One of our concepts was that people for 30 years welcomed area residents to could come in off the (Red Jacket) trail or use the two-acre community garden. wherever and enjoy an apple or raspberry or strawberry. The idea is it For 10 years, Blue Earth County’s onebecomes an engaging space,” Peterson acre Community Farm near Mount Kato said. developed into a gardening plot but was moved twice in the past couple of years Already some raspberry and strawas County Road 1 was reconstructed. berry plants are growing just outside the farm fence, their fruit to be available to Recently Living Earth took over manpassersby later this summer. agement of the Community Farm.

“I really believe in the power of these “At the community garden people are spaces,” Peterson said of the farm and growing their own food and at the farm community garden. “It provides food sovvolunteers are growing food that’s donatereignty, connections, relationships. We ed to the community,” said Laura have people from all walks of life at a Peterson, Living Earth Center executive communal, peaceful gathering from director. pretty much every racial, spiritual, genThe farm, off Indian Lake Road and der, age background group. Where else near its original location, is becoming a do you have that?” Peterson said. more fertile area for growing produce She said they are working with diverse that is donated to a number of nonprofits groups to attract more new immigrants including the ECHO Food Shelf and Photo courtesy of Blue Earth County to the two plots and they’re working on a BackPack program.

Volunteers plant at the community farm during an open house in mid-May. Three Sisters Garden as a space for “We hired Carol Harder as farm manHe noted that Harder recently brought chickens to American Indian families to come to. ager. She came from the Twin Cities and has a lot of the farm. “They eat bugs and the fertilizer is good.

Peterson said they are also building stronger relaexperience in community farms and gardens,” She puts them in a chicken coop every night.” tionships with a variety of groups, including 4-H and Peterson said.

A decade ago Stuehrenberg and former commis- local food nonprofits.

“She understands things like how to transform clay sioner Will Purvis attended a national convention in The future of the community garden at Good soil that hasn’t been cultivated and has the expertise Portland, Oregon, where they visited a community Counsel is unknown. The School Sisters of Notre in working with people.” garden. “We got on the bus to go back to the hotel and Dame announced recently they will sell the sprawling Blue Earth County Commissioner Vance we both said, ‘We can do that,’” Stuehrenberg said. property. While a buyer or future development of the Stuehrenberg, who helped start the community farm Peterson said their biggest need now is volunteers site isn’t yet known, Peterson said that if the Living 10 years ago, said having Living Earth take over run- to help at the farm and, of course, financial backing. Earth Center is dislocated at some point, the group ning the farm is the perfect solution.

While the county provides financial support for the will continue doing what it does at some location.

“I’m just ecstatic. We have some of the most amaz- farm, the group is always looking for grants and Living Earth was created by the nuns of Good ing people working out there. The manager, Carol, is donations.

Counsel, but it is now a separate nonprofit group. just top of the line and knows what she’s doing. It Living Earth recently received a $4,000 county The Free Press and The Land are sister publications looks amazing and will only get better.”

SHIPS grant that helped it pay for a garden shed at owned by The Free Press Media. v

USDA funds community compost, food waste reduction projects ST. PAUL — The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced the availability of up to $2 million for local governments to host Community Compost and Food Waste Reduction (CCFWR) pilot projects for fiscal year 2021. The cooperative agreements support projects which develop and test strategies for planning and implementing municipal compost plans and food waste reduction plans.

USDA’s Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (Office) will accept applications on Grants. gov until 11:59 p.m. on July 16. Projects should span two years with a start date of Sept. 25 and completion date of Sept. 25, 2023.

Cooperative agreements support projects led by

local governments that generate compost; increase access to compost for agricultural producers; reduce reliance on and limit the use of fertilizer; and improve soil quality.

Other projects should encourage waste management and permaculture business development; increase rainwater absorption; reduce municipal food waste; and divert food waste from landfills.

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service will provide assistance for conservation related activities.

Priority will be given to projects which anticipate or demonstrate economic benefits, incorporate plans

to make compost easily accessible to farmers, including community gardeners, integrate other food waste strategies, including food recovery efforts and collaborate with multiple partners.

A pre-recorded webinar will provide an overview of the cooperative agreements’ purpose, project types, eligibility and basic requirements for submitting an application. The webinar will be posted at farmers. gov/urban.

Questions about this cooperative agreement opportunity can be sent to UrbanAgriculture@usda.gov.

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

PAGE 12

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

Expanding CRP acres for carbon sequestration “Carbon sequestration” is a common fairly steady ranging from just under topic these days in the halls of Congress, $1.8 billion in 2002 to a high of just over at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in $1.9 billion in 2018. The total cost of the farm organizations, and among farmers CRP program for the current fiscal year and ranchers. One federal conservation is estimated at about $1.8 billion, which program which has been around for over is a small percentage of total federal 35 years and has assisted with carbon spending authorized by the 2018 Farm sequestration is the Conservation Bill.

Reserve Program. CRP was established in Current CRP enrollment FARM PROGRAMS December of 1985 as part of the 1985 As of March 31, 2021, there were a Farm Bill. total of 564,021 CRP contracts in place,

By Kent Thiesse The initial goal of CRP was to with just under 20.8 million acres reduce soil erosion on highly erodenrolled in the CRP program. This is ible cropland and to help curb the over 4 million acres below the maxiover-production of farm commodities. mum of 25 million acres for 2021 Secondary objectives of CRP included improving that was allowed as part of the last Farm Bill. Of water quality, fostering wildlife habitat, and provid- the total CRP acres, approximately 11.3 million ing income support to farmers, and as time passed acres are enrolled under a general CRP contract, enhancing carbon sequestration. just over 6.3 million acres enrolled in continuous CRP, just under 1.9 million acres are enrolled in the The history of CRP grassland program, and the balance of the CRP USDA began enrolling crop acres into the CRP acres in the CREP program, wetlands programs and program in 1986. CRP has been the largest and most important conservation program in the United other special CRP initiatives. Forty-six percent of the continuous CRP and CREP acres are enrolled in States since that time, making major contributions to national efforts to improve water and air quality, the Clean Lakes, Estuaries and Rivers (CLEAR) prevent soil erosion, protect environmentally sensi- program. tive land, and enhance wildlife populations. The There are eight states which have over 1 million CRP program offers landowners 10 or 15-year conacres currently enrolled in CRP as of March, 2021 tracts to take farm land out of production. Following — mainly in the Upper Midwest and Plains regions. initiation of the program, CRP acreage quickly rose CRP acres enrolled in these states include: Texas to over 30 million acres by 1990; then increased (2.4 million), Kansas (1.8 million), Iowa (1.7 mileven more, to around 35 million acres by 1993-1995; lion), Colorado (1.6 million), South Dakota (1.4 milbefore dropping off slightly following the 1996 lion), Nebraska (1.3 million), North Dakota (1.2 mil“Freedom-to-Farm” Farm Bill. CRP acres then lion), and Minnesota (just over 1 million acres). CRP began to increase again in the late 1990’s, reaching acreage in most of these states has declined consida peak of 36.8 million acres in 2007. erably in recent years.

During a 15-year period from 2007 to 2021, CRP The U.S. average CRP rental rate is $83 per acre, acreage has declined by nearly 16 million acres or including an average of $54 per acre for land 43 percent. There is approximately 20.8 million enrolled under general CRP contracts, $137 per acres currently enrolled in CRP, which is at the low- acres for continuous CRP land, and $180 per acre est level since 1988. The reduction in CRP acres has for land enrolled in CREP. In Minnesota, the averbeen due to high crop prices, strong farm income age CRP rental rate is $140 per acre, which includes levels, and mandated reductions in maximum CRP $88 per acre for general CRP contracts and $163 acreage by federal legislation. per acre for continuous CRP acres. Iowa has an overall CRP rental average of $229 per acre, with The 2007 Farm Bill reduced the maximum CRP $166 per acre for general CRP and $254 per acre for acreage from 37 million acres down to 32 million continuous CRP. Average CRP rental rates in other acres, which was followed by the 2014 Farm Bill which reduced the maximum CRP acreage even fur- states include Illinois at $202 per acre, Indiana at $192 per acre, Wisconsin at $159 per acre, South ther, down to a maximum level of 24 million acres.

Dakota at $75 per acre, Nebraska at $58 per acre, The 2018 Farm Bill established a gradual increase North Dakota at $52 per acre, and Montana at $29 in maximum CRP acres up to 25 million acres in per acre.

2021, 25.5 million acres in 2022 and 27 million acres in 2023.

Given the current challenge to get more acres enrolled into the CRP program, one concern is the Approximately 70 percent of the CRP acres are currently seeded to native grasses, 11 percent of the rather large number of CRP contract acres that will be expiring in the next few years. CRP contracts acres are in wetland restoration, 7 percent are will expire on about 3 million acres in the United planted to trees, 7 percent are in riparian buffers, States on Sept. 30, along with approximately 4 miland 5 percent of the acres have other conservation practices installed. Since 2002, the total annual fed- lion acres on Sept. 30, 2022 and 2 million acres on Sept. 30, 2023. A total of 9 million acres, or 43 pereral outlay to fund the CRP program has stayed cent of the current total CRP acres, will have con-

MARKETING

tracts expiring in the next three years. Keeping those acres in CRP could be a challenge if farm profitability stays strong and traditional land rental rates increase.

USDA announces new CRP initiatives In mid-April, in order to address the declining CRP enrollment rate in recent years and to more fully utilize CRP as a tool to enhance carbon sequestration, USDA announced new CRP initiatives, with higher payment rates, new incentives, and a more targeted focus. The 2018 Farm Bill which was passed by Congress limited maximum CRP annual rental rates to 85 percent of established county average rental rates for a given county for land signed up under a general CRP contract and to 90 percent of the average rate for land signed up under a continuous CRP contract. One way that USDA can circumvent the reduced CRP rental rates is to offer sign-up incentives to implement certain practices and to cover CRP establishment expenses.

Following are some of the new CRP initiatives announced by the USDA: Overall CRP initiatives — Increase technical assistance capacity through the Natural Resource Conservation Service; and increase collaboration with other USDA agencies and external partners to monitor and measure the environmental performance and climate benefits of CRP. General CRP initiatives — New “climate-smart” incentives to encourage practices to sequester carbon and reduce emissions; additional one-time 10 percent inflationary adjustment for the life of the CRP contract to encourage greater CRP enrollment; and further upward or downward adjustments of county CRP rental rates, up to 50 to 150 percent of county average CRP rental rates, based on the soil productivity index.

Continuous CRP initiatives — Increase the incentive from 10 percent to 20 percent for adding water quality enhancement practices; move State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) from general CRP to continuous CRP sign-up; make the Highly Erodible Land Initiative (HELI) available in both continuous and general CRP. (Also implement the same three initiatives as for general CRP.) Grassland CRP initiatives — Establish a minimum CRP Grassland rental rate of $15 per acre (1,347 counties are currently lower); and establish National Grassland Priority Zones to increase CRP enrollment in sensitive areas.

“Pilot” CRP initiatives — Hold a second sign-up of the Soil Health and Income Protection Program (SHIPP) (see below); and expand the Clean Lakes, Estuaries, and Rivers 30-year contract (CLEAR30) to be nationwide.

In mid-May, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced agriculture producers in the “Prairie See THIESSE, pg. 14

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

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

PAGE 13

Fields are planted, but rain remains scarce Mark Wettergren, Blair Hoseth,   St. Peter, Minn.

FROM THE Mahnomen, Minn. — — May 21 May 20

“We had not had rain in six weeks.” The Land spoke to Blair Hoseth on May 20 as he reported the farm finally got a quarter of an inch of rain that morning with even more rain in the forecast.

Hoseth finished planting soybeans on May 8. The crop went in the ground well.

“The wheat is coming up and looks pretty good. It needs moisture.” The corn crop was done being planted on May 15 with Hoseth also putting in a test plot the same day. He started corn on May 6.

In the next 10 days Hoseth will begin spraying wheat. He will also be getting the cows out to pasture and finish with calving. With the lack of moisture, it will be two more weeks until the first cutting of hay. “The pasture and hay look way too short. Hay at best is a foot high.”

“Our biggest concern is getting enough moisture.” Hoseth is grateful to have gotten all the crops in the ground in a timely fashion. Now if there could be some nice rains to move the crops along, that would be ideal for Hoseth and his neighbors in the Mahnomen, Minn. area. He hopes the forecast is accurate and additional rain is indeed on its way. v

FIELDS

Compiled by KRISTIN KVENO, The Land Staff Writer

Wertish, Olivia, Minn. — Steve May 20 Rain has been elusive on the Wertish farm so far this spring. The Land caught up with Steve Wertish on May 20 as he reported just two-tenths of an inch of rain fell the night before while other places in the area received considerably more moisture in that event. “Nowhere around here got much rain.”

The sugar beets in general are looking good. “There are some decent looking fields,” Wertish said.

While most corn fields are doing well, Wertish noted that he did spot some fairly poor stand in places. “A lot of the soybeans aren’t up, the same with the sweet corn.”

“Next week we’ll start spraying some corn.” The beets have a cover crop of wheat and oats, Wertish will kill that off next week as well. On the seed business side, Wertish will continue with organizing boxes and pallets as well as handling seed returns. He also plans on dealing with some field issues. “We’ll work on the tile lines; we noticed a few problems.”

“A little rain would be very welcome.” Wertish overall feels extremely fortunate the crops went in the ground so smoothly this spring. “In general, I’m feeling good about the year so far.” Now just bring on the rain! v

1999 Fruehauf Van 2007 KENTWORTH T600

2013 Kentworth T660

overhauled @ 614,740 miles, 475HP, spd, very clean, 28Cummins foot, 2- 1600 gal. tanks, 2” electric hose reel,13 2 inductors, 3” fill, steers 80%, drives brakes drums, jake, 2” out, 2” pump, wired50-60%, for 12Vnew pumps and&lights, roll up cruise, alum. door

Paccar, 455 HP, Just in, very clean, steers are half, drives at 80%, Jake, Cruise, Air Slide 5th, load gauge, 675,105 miles

PW, PL, PM, air ride, air slide, load gauge, 918,064 miles.

Call For Price

1996 Case IH 9380 Quadtrac

400 HP, Cummins, N14, Powershift, 8,453 hrs, just serviced and field ready, 4 Hyd remotes, front & rear diff locks, 12 spd, AC, 2 new tracks

For Sale Price $62,500

 

For Sale $10,900 CallPrice: For Price

23774 380th Ave. Hancock, MN 56244 P: (320) 795-2827 F: (320) 795-2892 www.kannegiessertrucksales.com

2007 Freightliner Business Class M2 106 2007 STERLING ACTERRA

250HP C-7 Caterpillar, 6 speed manual, 9”steers, frame, 4” 14L Detroit 515HP, 10 speed, air ride, clean, just in,23’ 60% 40%18’ drives, C-A, drivesand @ drums, 70%, brakes andPL, drums 50%, miles 80% brakes cruise, PW, PM, air@slide 5th,180,893 351,099 miles

For $9,500 ForSale Sale Price: Price $20,000

The Land caught up with Mark Wettergren on May 21 as he was thrilled to report one and a quarter inches of rain fell at the farm on May 20. “It was really what we needed, that was perfect, ideal.”

Wettergren finished planting corn on April 30 and started on soybeans that day. “It’s very even stand; the corn came up really even.” The beans were planted in moisture.

He finished putting beans on May 7. Wettergren’s brother, Richard, was done rolling them that same day. “The beans came up really nice.”

Wettergren has gotten the sprayer out and ready to go. He expects to be spraying this Monday or Tuesday if the weather allows. “We should be wrapped up in three days.” He’s also working on servicing some of the equipment.

After spraying is complete, Wettergren hopes to head south to Tennessee to spend some quality time with his grandkids for a few days. With everything looking good in the field, and the nice timely rain that fell, taking a break to hang out the grandkids is icing on a great spring so far for Wettergren. v

2003 2012Volvo VOLVOVNL62T630 VNL62T630

Just in,10465 HP,425HP, 10 speed manual, D13, speed, Clean, just in, VED brakes12, andEaton drums Fuller, 50%, Cruise, jake, Jake,cruise, Air Ride, 60”693,000 Mid Roof air ride, milesSleeper

For Sale $8,500 Call Price: For Price

2008 Volvo VNL64T300 1987 GREAT DANE

Just in, Cummins 450HP ISX 10 speed Manual, Cruise, PW, 48 foot by 102 wide, tires at 90%, brakes and drums at 40%, air ride PW, PL, Air Ride, Air Slide, 758,706 miles

Call Price For SaleFor Price $3,250

PAGE 14

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

SE Asia overtakes Mexico as second-largest U.S. dairy market This column was written for the marmonth. USDEC says, “The region ranked keting week ending May 28.

Number 2 for sales, buying $1.26 billion in U.S. dairy products and ingredients, a The ‘fridge is far from empty, but the 36 percent increase over the previous U.S. Department of Agriculture’s latest year, despite the challenges presented by Cold Storage report shows inventories a global pandemic.” are not getting out of hand, at least on cheese.

USDEC also opened its Center for Dairy Excellence in Singapore, stating American-type stocks fell to 830.8 mil“The investment signals a long-term comlion pounds, down 3.6 million pounds or MIELKE MARKET mitment to a region that encompasses 0.4 percent from March (which was WEEKLY Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, revised up 2.6 million pounds) and they Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, plus

By Lee Mielke were 3.5 million pounds or 0.4 percent Brunei Darussalam, Burma, below those a year ago.

Cambodia and Laos.” The combined The “other” cheese category saw population of those countries is more stocks dip to 601.2 million pounds, than 670 million, more than double down 10.7 million pounds or 1.7 percent from March the U.S. population. and 17.5 million or 2.8 percent below a year ago. n The total cheese inventory stood at 1.45 billion Checking prices at home, the Cold Storage data pounds on April 30, down 15.9 million pounds or 1.1 put the brakes on cheese prices falling, for a day at percent from March and 25.5 million pounds or 1.7 least. After plunging 15.5 cents the previous week, percent below a year ago, ending five consecutive the cheddar blocks closed the last Friday of May at months that total cheese stocks grew. $1.53 per pound. This is down 4 cents on the week, The decline in cheese is a rare occurrence during 27 cents below where it was on May 3, and 70 cents the spring flush. It is the first April decline since below a year ago when they pole-vaulted 29.25 1993, according to HighGround Dairy’s Lucas Fuess cents to $2.23 per pound. in the May 31 “Dairy Radio Now” broadcast. Fuess The barrels entered the Memorial Day weekend at said the expanded cheese production capacity which came online in recent months leads us to believe production was strong. However, this report would indicate, “demand is almost off the charts” and driven by retail and foodservice channels as the econoTHIESSE, from pg. 12 my quickly reopened.

MARKETING

$1.57 per pound, down 3.75 cents on the week, down 24.25 cents on the month, 45.25 cents below a year ago when they jumped 13.25 cents, but at an inverted 4 cents above the blocks.

There were 36 cars of block traded on the week, 123 for the month, up from 85 in April. Barrel sales totaled 33 for the week, 110 for the month, up from 81 in April.

Some Midwestern cheese producers told Dairy Market News they were planning on running through Saturday and continuing on the Monday holiday. Others were down for updates and maintenance. Spot milk loads were being reported more regularly and cheesemakers were finding heavily discounted loads.

Cheese demand remains mixed. Some retail cheddar producers say buyer interest is and has been quite busy while other varietal cheesemakers were less busy. Barrel prices topping the blocks is viewed with a skeptical eye, says Dairy Market News.

Cheese demand in the west has slowed in both retail and food service. Cheese production has remained strong, causing supplies to outpace demand. The weaker Chicago Mercantile Exchange prices have some believing that is favorable for See MIELKE, pg. 17

Give better incentives for CRP participation

CRP program, unless there are some added financial incentives.

Butter stocks climbed to 385.3 million pounds, up a Pothole” region can now enroll in the Soil Health Increasing CRP annual rental rates back to comand Income Protection Program (SHIPP), which is a hefty 27.9 million pounds or 7.8 percent above the pilot program being offered under the CRP program. parable farm land rental rates in a given area is March inventory, which was revised up 2.8 million likely to face kickback by some members of pounds. They were 12.7 million pounds or 3.4 percent The SHIPP program is a short-term CRP option to above April 2020, making April the 22nd consecutive plant cover vegetation on less productive agricultur- Congress and by farm organizations. The reduction al lands, while improving soil health and enhancing factors in the maximum CRP rental rates which month butter stocks topped those of a year ago. were put in place in the last Farm Bill were due to carbon sequestration. The SHIPP program takes Fuess says the butter data was “pretty normal,” CRP competing with farmers who were trying to farm land out of crop production, while still allowbut the heavy inventory will weigh on prices. rent farm land for crop production — especially ing livestock producers to utilize the land for haying HighGround Dairy warns that butter stocks will younger beginning farm operators. This CRP rental and grazing.

States eligible for the SHIPP program only climb further in second quarter before reaching rate reduction had bipartisan support in Congress include Minnesota, Iowa, Montana, North and the yearly peak.

South Dakota. The current SHIPP enrollment peri- during the development of the 2018 Farm Bill.

Keep in mind a year ago, Covid lockdowns had Hopefully, USDA and Congress kind find a workod continues through July 16. restaurants closing their doors, thus butter stocks able solution to the CRP rental rate situation, as grew quickly. It will be interesting to see what April Summary the CRP program does seem to be a sensible The CRP program has a long and successful histobutter output looked like in the next Dairy Products ry of preventing soil erosion, improving water quali- approach toward further enhancement of carbon report issued June 4. sequestration efforts in many areas of the United ty, enhancing wildlife habitat, and aiding in carbon States.

The StoneX Dairy Group, however, says that over- sequestration. While it may seem quite logical to all, they are still bullish on butter and expect stocks utilize expansion of the CRP program to reach furFor more information on the current CRP enrollto fall below year ago levels by August, as competiment, expiring CRP acres, rental rates, etc., contact ther goals related to carbon sequestration, there tive U.S. butter prices increase exports. the local USDA Farm Service Agency office or refer could be some obstacles in accomplishing those to the USDA CRP web site at http://www.fsa.usda. goals. Commodity prices for corn and soybeans are n gov/crp their highest levels in eight or nine years. Farm Speaking of exports, the U.S. Dairy Export Council profit levels have improved considerably in the past Kent Thiesse is a government farm programs anareports that Southeast Asia surpassed Mexico to couple of years, which is also resulting in higher lyst and a vice president at MinnStar Bank in Lake become the U.S. number-one dairy export market for land rental rates in many areas. This may make it Crystal, Minn. He may be reached at (507) 726-2137 volume in 2020, absorbing the equivalent of more difficult to convince farmers and landowners to take or kent.thiesse@minnstarbank.com. v than one day of total U.S. milk production per farm land out of production in order to enroll in the

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

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

PAGE 15

THE LAND THANKS YOU!

To all of you that returned your 2021 subscription card to The Land we want to say a heartfelt “thank you”. During these especially difficult times we are truly humbled by the outpouring of support that you have shown us. If you haven’t sent in your card yet there’s still time. Please use the 2021 subscription card on this page. Take a minute to fill it out, sign and date it, and mail it back. If you would like to add a donation we would appreciate it. Thank you for reading The Land. We look forward to hearing from you.

Register to Win

DON’T MISS AN ISSUE! To ensure that you continue to receive The • Complete the form below, sign and date.

Land Magazine, please follow these steps: • Include your check and put it in the mail.

2021 Subscription Form

Weber® Q 1200 Outdoor Gas Grill LP n Electric Ignition n Compact Design n Removable Catch Pan n Porcelain-Enameled, Cast-Iron Cooking Grates n 8,500 BTU-per-hour input n Folding Side Tables n 189 sq. in. Cooking Area n Lid Thermometer Dimensions: Lid Closed and Tables Out (inches) 15.5”H x 40.9”W x 16.5”D

Lid Open and Tables Out (inches) 24.6”H x 40.9”W x 20.5”D

To qualify for the Prize Drawing, return your form by August 6, 2021.

No purchase necessary. If you have already sent in your card, we thank you and you’re automatically entered in the drawing! If you’re not sure if you sent it in this year, call or email the office and ask us.



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

Full Year Voluntary Subscription:  $49  Other



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

Full Year Voluntary Subscription:  $49

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

Acres Corn Soybeans Alfalfa Wheat Sugar Beets Total Acres

1-99

100-249

250-499

500-999

1000+

     

     

     

     

     

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

Livestock Head  250-499

 500-999

 1000+

 250-499

 500-999

 1000+

 250-499

 500-999

 1000+

 100-199

 200+

Data will NOT be sold.

PLEASE PRINT

Mail to: THE LAND 418 South Second St., • Mankato, MN 56001

Grill Entry

Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address ____________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip ______________________________________________________________________

507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 email: theland@thelandonline.com

County of Address __________________________Phone # ________________________________ E-mail Address _____________________________________________________________________ Signature __________________________________________________ Date __________________

PAGE 16

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

MARKETING

Grain Outlook Corn sees trade limits in both directions with China rumors The following marketing analysis is for dropped 453,000 barrels to 19 million barthe week ending May 28. rels or approximately 18.5 days of usage.

This is the lowest stocks figure since CORN — The corn market was chaotic December 2016 and the lowest for this spethis week with very little fresh news and cific week since 2014. Gasoline demand generally favorable weather for crop develincreased to 9.5 million bpd from 9.22 milopment. May 25 saw rumors fly about lion in the previous week as society opens China canceling or rolling U.S. old crop corn back up. Ethanol demand ran to a 62-week purchases which sent prices down the high and 1 percent higher than 2019.

40-cent daily trading limit. By May 27, we Ethanol margins dropped 13 cents to 44 PHYLLIS NYSTROM saw July corn futures touch the 40-cent cents per gallon. Based on current numCHS H edging Inc. limit again; but this time on the upside! bers, there isn’t any reason for the corn for S t. Paul Traders had been expecting to see old crop ethanol category to be lowered on this corn cancellations to China, but instead year’s balance sheet. saw China’s old crop corn purchases increase by 4 million bushels.

U.S. corn planting was as expected at 90 percent complete vs. 80 percent average as of May 23. Corn This market is not for the faint of heart as money pushes prices around at will on relatively light vol- emergence was 64 percent compared to 54 percent umes. The trading range this week in the July con- on average. The first corn condition report of the tract was $6.02.75 to $6.72.75 per bushel and in the season is expected to be released on June 1. Bear in December contract, it was from $5.00.25 to $5.57.75 mind initial ratings do not have a good correlation to what the final yield will be. A Reuters article sugper bushel. gested U.S. corn acreage will be 94.1 million acres The surprise in weekly exports was a lack of net this year compared to the 91.1 million acres the cancellations and sales at a seven-week high prompt- USDA is using. They put soybean acreage at 88 miled fund buyers into action and sent nearby futures lion vs. USDA at 87.6 million acres. limit up that erased the weekly losses to that point.

The Brazilian Agriculture Ministry wants more Weekly export sales for old crop were 21.9 million farmers to plant corn. This comes after a drought bushels and well above pre-report ideas. Old crop this year has cut the safrinha corn crop. They are commitments at 2.7 billion bushels are just shy of the U.S. Department of Agriculture target of 2.775 billion considering a government options contract to attract bushels with three months left in the marketing year. more acres to corn. The lowest published estimate China has 370 million bushels of old crop purchases for this year’s total corn crop in Brazil is 91.1 million metric tons. Safras & Mercado lowered their still to ship.

Brazilian corn estimate to 95.2 mmt. The USDA New crop sales were below estimates, but were still dropped their estimate to 102 mmt on the May an impressive 224.1 million bushels. New crop com- report and many expect that number to decline on mitments stand at 575.9 million bushels vs. a meager the June report.

133.3 million bushels last year by this date. As of the Here’s how volatile July corn has been in calendar May 20 report, China had purchased 421.2million 2021: Dec. 31 July corn closed at $4.80.25, then ralbushels for the 2021-22 crop year. This equates to 73 lied to a high on May 7 of $7.35.25 (a 53 percent percent of the bushels we have on the books for new rally), before falling to a low of $6.02.75 on May crop. I believe ideas that China won’t take all their old crop purchases are fading with recent action. One 26 (an 18 percent decline). The 53 percent rally was comment I heard this week was China was desper- the largest percentage gain for this period since at ately short of feed grains. However, their appetite for least 1973 and the largest percentage drop for the new crop bushels may have been satisfied for the time frame since 1973. time being. The only fresh export sale announcement Outlook: Weather, rumors, and money are driving for the week was 6 million new crop bushels to price action. The burden may be on the bull if unknown.

Chinese buying slows down and we don’t have a Weekly ethanol production fell 21,000 barrels per weather event to push us back to the highs. This day to 1 million bpd, but was still the second-highest doesn’t mean we won’t see better selling opportuniof the year. Production was only 4.4 percent below ties, but seasonally corn struggles in the last half of the same week in 2019 (pre-Covid). Ethanol stocks June when we head into the June 30 Acreage and

Cash Grain Markets

corn/change* soybeans/change* St. Cloud $6.91 +.31 $15.14 -.45 Madison $6.93 +.25 $14.81 -.43 Redwood Falls $6.94 +.26 $15.28 -.46 Fergus Falls $6.94 +.21 $14.89 -.60 Morris $6.94 +.26 $15.05 -.24 Tracy $6.84 +.18 $15.08 -.54 Average:

$6.92

$14.99

Year Ago Average: $2.80 $7.87 Grain prices are effective cash close on June 2. *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.

Grain Stocks reports. In five of the last seven years, June stocks were higher than what the trade expected. The June acreage report was above trade estimates in four of the last five years.

The caveat to the lower seasonal price action in June is if Chinese buying is on-going and we have periods of questionable weather. Don’t lose sight of political activity between the United States and China. There were varying views on how the first virtual meeting between officials went this week.

U.S. Trade Representative Tai called the relationship “very, very challenging.” Chinese officials called the meeting “candid, pragmatic and constructive.” It doesn’t look like it will be smooth sailing.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Drought Monitor on May 27 indicated 43 percent of the Midwest was abnormally dry or worse vs. 38 percent in the previous week. This crop is a long way from being in the bin. We can’t afford any crop problems this year, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stay with your marketing plan. If nothing else, this week’s big swings drove home how quickly this market can whipsaw and move to hurt the most people possible.

For the week, July corn was down just 2.75 cents at $6.56.75 per bushel. For the month, July corn dropped 16.5 cents per bushel. December corn fell a penny this week to close at $5.45.5 per bushel. For the month, December corn was 18.25 cents lower.

SOYBEANS — Soybeans were able to break their string of seven consecutive lower sessions late in the week when corn locked limit up. Soybeans had fallen to their lowest price in five weeks and the lowest for the month of May before attracting buyers back to the market. Meal prices dropped to their lowest level of 2021.

Soybean planting as of May 23 wasn’t as far along as the trade anticipated at 75 percent complete vs. 80 percent estimated, but was still much above the 54 percent average and the quickest pace since 2012.

See NYSTROM, pg. 17

Information in the above columns is the writer’s opinion. It is no way guaranteed and should not be interpreted as buy/sell advice. Futures trading always involves a certain degree of risk.

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

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

PAGE 17

Dairy farmers welcome drop in corn, soybean meal prices MIELKE, from pg. 14 exports and could lead to an increase in demand.

Cheese intended for export however continues to face delays due to congestion at ports and delays reportedly vary week to week. n Cash butter wasn’t helped by the Cold Storage data and fell to $1.785 on May 26, but finished May 28 at $1.81. This is still down 6 cents on the week, up 5.75 cents on the month, and 15 cents above a year ago. There were 20 sales reported on the week, 56 for the month of May, down from 101 in April.

Food service butter demand shot up to pre-pandemic levels with the reopening of restaurants and public events earlier in the spring, says Dairy Market News, but once pipelines were closer to being refilled, demand waned. There were some positive notes this week in food service demand from butter producers in the central region. Cream was widely available ahead of the holiday weekend.

Some plants were running normal schedules, while others were down for Memorial Day. Cream is available. Early in the week, contacts continued to report paying the extra costs for cream from the west, but by midweek some plants found loads in the region at multiples in the low 1.20s. Butter demand is better than some contacts expected for this time of the year, says Dairy Market News, but market tones are uncertain.

Western cream is in steady supply and is expected to briefly bump up as some dairy manufacturing paused over the long weekend. Ice cream continues to absorb much of the cream supply, but there’s still plenty for butter makers. Bulk butter inventories are stable, with some southwestern butter makers working to grow inventories for later this year.

Retail orders are lower but steady. Food service sales are picking up but some contacts report hesitation from buyers. Demand is not crystal clear, and it is difficult to accurately forecast needs.

Grade A nonfat dry milk climbed to $1.3025 per pound on May 25, but slid back to a $1.2925 per pound close on May 28. This is a half-cent lower on the week, 2.75 cents lower on the month, but 26.25 cents above that week a year ago. Sales totaled 23 for the week, 76 on the month, up from 58 in April.

CME dry whey saw its biggest single day drop since April 23 on May 27, down 3 cents, and closed the next day at 62.25 cents per pound. This is down 2.25 cents on the week, down 3.75 cents from May 3, but 31.75 cents above a year ago. There were three sales on the week, 12 for the month, down from 17 in April. n There was talk of growing whey inventories in the United States this week and weaker Chinese and domestic demand, according to StoneX, plus port congestion and shipping constraints causing delays may have contributed to the weakness.

The USDA’s latest Crop Progress report shows 90 percent of the U.S. corn crop is planted as of the week ending May 23. This is up from 80 percent the previous week, 3 percent ahead of a year ago, and 10 percent ahead of the five-year average. Sixty-four percent is emerged, 3 percent ahead of a year ago, and 10 percent ahead of the five-year average.

Soybean plantings are at 75 percent, up from 61 percent the week before, 12 percent ahead of a year ago, and 21 percent ahead of the five-year average. Fortyone percent are emerged, 8 percent ahead of a year ago and 16 percent ahead of the five-year average.

Cotton is 49 percent planted, 3 percent behind

2020 and 3 percent below the five-year average. n Corn and soybean meal prices have fallen which is good news for dairy farmers buying feed. Fuess said corn was at levels not seen in a month and soybean meal was at a level not seen since December.

StoneX stated in its May 26 “Early Morning Update,” “If the past two to three months have taught us anything, it is that this year the cost of production (in terms of the effect high corn prices have had on producers) has not yet impacted proSee MIELKE, pg. 18

Low export news drops soybean price NYSTROM, from pg. 16 Soybean emergence was 41 percent compared to 25 percent on average.

News in the soybean market was very thin this week and fund selling along with money movers was running the show. At mid-week, the November contract posted a doji star formation, opening and closing at the same price, which usually signifies a change in direction or consolidation. This time it acted as a friendly signal and November soybeans held above their 40 and 50-day moving average support lines.

Statements out of China in the first half of the week kept buyers sidelined. China’s state planner said they would have “zero tolerance for excessive speculation” and hoarding of commodities. These statements were followed by the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission asking lenders to halt the selling of investment products linked to commodity futures to retail traders and to unwind their existing books of those products. Banks must provide monthly updates to regulators to show their progress on exiting positions. Unidentified sources also reported that at least two major futures brokerages were advised by China’s exchanges to cap positions and trading volumes in highly volatile contracts. This type of activity makes buyers nervous.

Weekly export sales were uneventful with 2.1 million bushels for old crop and 9.1 million bushels for new crop. Old crop total commitments reached 2.26 billion bushels compared to the USDA’s outlook for 2.28 billion bushels. It’s no surprise old crop sales are minimal since Brazil’s soybeans are roughly $1 per bushel cheaper than U.S. origin. China has 25.8 million bushels of unshipped old crop U.S. bushels on the books. New crop commitments at 267.1 million bushels have left last year’s sales of 85.7 million bushels by this date in the dust. China accounts for 113.9 million bushels or 42.6 percent of the new crop total commitments.

As Argentina continues to struggle with low river levels hindering loading, they were able to cut short a port worker strike. Workers had planned a 48-hour

strike to protest the availability of vaccinations against Covid-19. The strike was cut short when the government agreed to put the workers on the “essential” worker list that was previously limited to health care workers, teachers, and police.

The Buenos Aires Grain Exchange has Argentina’s soybean harvest at 91 percent complete as of May 27 and 97 percent on average and corn harvest at 31 percent complete vs. 47 percent on average. The BAGE increased their soybean estimate .5 mmt to 43.5 mmt.

Brazil planned to avoid a port worker strike at their Santos port by vaccinating workers also.

Growing cases on Covid-19 saw Malaysia limit work force capacity at palm oil plantations to 60 percent. This has lent support to the world vegetable oil market.

Outlook: Tight ending stocks and a quick start to this year’s soybean crop played a tug of war to move prices sideways this week. For the week, July soybeans traded a range of $14.89.25 to $15.55.75, closing 4.25 cents higher at $15.30.5 per bushel. For the month, July soybeans were down 3.75 cents per bushel. The November contract traded a weekly range of $13.25.75 to $13.92.5, settling 12.25 cents higher for the week at $13.72.75 per bushel. For the month, November soybeans were 33 cents higher.

While old crop exports have slowed down, it was expected with cheaper supplies available from South America.

Weather will take the lead for the time being as we watch drought conditions around the United States.

How many acres have been captured by soybeans is uncertain and will add to volatility. Soyoil action has also had an impact on soybean direction, so glance in that direction for input, too.

Nystrom’s notes: Contract changes for the week as of the close on May 28 (July contracts): Chicago wheat fell 10.75 cents to $6.63.5, Kansas City declined 10.75 cents to $6.13.25, while Minneapolis surged 27 cents higher to $7.27.5 per bushel. v

PAGE 18

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

Buying in China is supporting dairy prices MIELKE, from pg. 17 ducers’ willingness to make milk.”

“Direct government payments throughout the course of 2020 and better on-farm financial conditions (particularly for Class III producers coming into 2021), help keep the milk shed flush with milk today. Our models have proven that a U.S. Gross Dairy Margin above $11.00 triggers herd expansion, but even with our margins sitting below that for most of this year, the dairy herd continues to grow.”

Cooperatives Working Together members accepted five offers of export assistance this week to help capture sales contracts for 50,706 pounds of Monterey Jack cheese, 432,106 pounds of whole milk powder, 2,205 pounds of anhydrous milkfat, and 152,119 pounds of cream cheese. The product is going to customers in Asia and South America and will be delivered through September. n In politics, the National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council praised U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai for initiating a U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dispute settlement proceeding over Canada’s administration of dairy tariff rate quotas.

USDEC President Krysta Harden charged, “Canada has failed to take the necessary action to be in compliance with its obligations under USMCA by restricting access to the tariff rate quotas.”

NMPF President Jim Mulhern said, “We appreciate the bipartisan work from Members of Congress

to support America’s dairy industry on this important trade issue. Canada’s failure to take action over the past six months to fix the administration of its tariff rate quotas limits the ability of American dairy farmers and workers to benefit from the access that was negotiated in the agreement.”

USDEC and NMPF charged, “Canada has allocated its tariff rate quotas in a manner designed to discourage full use of the tariff rate quotas and limit imports of U.S. dairy products. Specifically, Canada is reserving the bulk of quota access to processors, who have little incentive to import U.S. dairy products, and are not providing fair or equitable procedures in administering the tariff rate quotas.”

The International Dairy Foods Association also expressed support for the action.

The IDFA also joined NMPF in applauding more than 50 House members who sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urging USDA to “Address the under consumption of dairy foods among American school-aged children, specifically by making permanent a current flexibility that allows schools to offer low-fat flavored milk, a nutrient dense option for improving the quality of children’s diets.”

The letter cited the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee report, which found that 79 percent of 9-to-13-year-olds, who rely on the school meal programs to meet their nutritional needs, are not meeting the recommended intake of dairy foods.

“Both the 2015 and 2020 editions of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans amplified this concern, stating that, beginning at a young age, average

dairy consumption falls short of recommended amounts,” the letter states.

Meanwhile, a new British study adds confirmation to previous U.S. studies praising milk as a benefit to the heart. Published in the International Journal of Obesity, the research found that drinking milk regularly can help lessen the chances of heart disease and even lower cholesterol levels.

Lastly, the Wisconsin-based American Dairy Coalition applauded Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) for urging USDA to provide relief to dairy farmers impacted by negative PPDs. A Gillibrand press release detailed losses to dairy farmers resulting from changes made in the calculation of Class I milk prices, which helped many processors protect their risks while farmer’s risk management tools “no longer protected them from the severe devaluation of their milk. This change, compounded by government intervention in cheese purchases during the pandemic, has resulted in a catastrophic loss of billions of dollars for dairy farmers.”

The ADA called on the USDA to “Heed the requests in the letter from Senators Gillibrand and Shaheen and to authorize additional relief to dairy farmers from all size dairy operations who suffered significant financial loss in order to ensure the viability of a strong national dairy economy.”

Lee Mielke is a syndicated columnist who resides in Everson, Wash. His weekly column is featured in newspapers across the country and he may be reached at lkmielke@juno.com. v

Study shows benefits of wheat in corn-soybean crop rotations A new study shows that including wheat once every four years in rotations with corn and soybean can have many benefits. The research was recently published in Agronomy Journal.

Across most of the Northern Corn Belt, farmers typically rotate between growing corn and soybean.

But occasionally growing wheat could help those farmers.

“Corn and soybean yields were higher when crop rotations included wheat,” said Ken Janovicek, mem-

Prepare for unexpected power outages with a Generac home standby generator REQUEST A FREE QUOTE!

877-228-5789

FREE

7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value!

Offer valid February 15 - June 6, 2021

Special Financing Available Subject to Credit Approval

*To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions.

ber of the American Society of Agronomy and lead author of the new study.

For the study, researchers grew winter wheat once every three or four years with corn and soybean.

They found that longer-term corn-soybean rotations that contain winter wheat can be more profitable. “The greatest yield increases occurred in rotations that included winter wheat once in four years,” said Janovicek.

Farmers tend to focus on corn and soybean because these crops typically have higher financial returns than wheat.

But the study made a key financial discovery. “The increase in corn and soybean yields when these crops are grown in rotation with wheat more than offset the lower sale returns associated with winter wheat,” said Janovicek.

“Farmers would need to continue to grow wheat every four to five years,” says Janovicek. “The increased corn and soybean yields associated with including wheat in rotations disappear over time if wheat is dropped from rotations.”

Rotating wheat with corn and soybean crops also has other benefits.

For example, soils tend to be healthier and have better structure when crop rotations include small grains or forages in addition to corn and soybean.

The crop rotation studies were carried out in two study sites in Ontario, Canada. At one of the sites near Elora, Ontario, the trial has been ongoing for more than 36 years.

The researchers observed continued increase in soybean yields over time when winter wheat was included in rotations throughout the trial. However, the largest yield increase was recorded in the past two years.

Wheat straw was baled at the Elora trial. Removing the wheat straw did not reduce subsequent corn or soybean yields. “That demonstrates that retention of straw is not needed to obtain greater corn and soybean yields when in rotation with wheat,” says Janovicek.

This article was submitted by the American Society of Agronomy. v

THE LAND — MAY 28 /JUNE 4, 2021

Real Estate FARMLAND FOR SALE: 140 acres in Butternut Valley, Section 18, Blue Earth County. Call 507-380-8447 or 507-380-7895

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

Look for the annual Farmfest section coming soon in The Land!

Call 507-345-4523 for advertising information.

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

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

Feed Seed Hay ALFALFA, mixed hay, grass hay & wheat straw, medium square or round bales, delivery available.

Thief River Falls, MN. Call or text LeRoy Ose: 218-689-6675

Bins & Buildings 5000 bu Butler grain bin, 21 dia 18’ high to the eave, drying floor, 12” for stands, unload tube & gates, inside/outside ladder, owner will take down if requested, $2,000 for everything listed w/ takedown.

320-587-9409

Planning An Auction?

Get the best results when you advertise it in The Land!

507-345-4523

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

PAGE 19

2 Parcel Farmland Auction McLeod County Coming Late Summer 2021 - Date TBD Parcel 1 - 61.16+/- Acres in Section 24 & 25 Parcel 2 - 41.31+/- Aces Incl Bid Site in Section 24 All Located in Acoma Township, McLeod County Watch FladeboeLand.com for more information & drone video to be coming soon! www.FladeboeLand.com Kristine Fladeboe Duininck, 320-212-9379 Kristine@FladeboeLand.com Dale Fladeboe, Lic. 34-12 Award Winning Auctioneers

PAGE 20

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

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

Opening May 28 & Closing June 7 at 12PM Gene & Mavis Haugom Farm Retirement Auction, McIntosh, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 31 & Closing June 8 at 7PM Aho Brothers Inventory Reduction Auction, Frazee, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening June 1 & Closing June 8 at 1PM Davidson Grain Retirement Auction, Creston, IL, Timed Online Auction Opening June 1 & Closing June 8 at 7PM Andrew & Barb Schiltz Moving Auction, Rosholt, SD, Timed Online Auction Opening June 2 & Closing June 9 at 6PM Edward Karel Estate Firearm Auction 1 of 3, Firearms, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening June 2 & Closing June 10 at 1PM Edward Karel Estate Firearm Auction 2 of 3, Gun Smithing and Barrel, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening June 2 & Closing June 10 at 6PM Edward Karel Estate Firearm Auction 3 of 3, Litchfield, MN, Ammunition, Timed Online Auction Opening June 3 & Closing June 8 at 12PM Mahnomen County, MN Recreational & Hunting Land Auction – 776.4± Acres, Mahnomen, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening June 3 & Closing June 9 at 2PM Norman County, MN Recreational Land Auction, Fertile, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening June 4 & Closing June 9 at 10AM Online Steffes Auction – 6/9, Upper Midwest Locations & Mt. Pleasant IA, Timed Online Auction Opening June 7 & Closing June 9 at 12PM Griggs County, ND Land Auction - 160± Acres, Binford, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening June 7 & Closing June 17 EnRec Solutions Excess Equipment Auction, Chippewa Falls, WI, Timed Online Auction Opening June 8 & Closing June 15 at 1PM Steffes Truck & Transportation Auction, Mt. Pleasant, IA, Timed Online Auction Opening June 8 & Closing June 15 at 7PM Mike Beltz Farm Retirement Auction, Hillsboro, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening June 8 & Closing June 16 at 7PM Litchfield Farm Equipment Auction, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening June 9 & Closing June 16 at 12PM Larry & Veronica Christenson Retirement Auction, Kramer, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening June 10 & Closing June 15 Duane & Karen Hanson Farm Retirement Auction, Crookston, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening June 10 & Closing June 15 at 12PM Norman County, MN Land Auction - 320± Acres, Borup, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening June 10 & Closing June 16 Bruce Pueppke Farm Retirement Auction, Mitchell, SD, Timed Online Auction Opening June 10 at 8AM & Closing June 17 at 1PM Walsh County, ND Hideaway Lodge & Recreational Land Auction, Edinburg, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening June 10 & Closing June 17 at 7PM Peter & Linda Torgerson Retirement Auction, Edinburg, ND, Timed Online Auction

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021 Bins & Buildings

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 T8.350 ................................................... $152,000 ’13 NH T9.610 .........................................................SOLD ’13 NH T8.390 .................................................... $169,500 ’84 JD 4850 FWA .....................................................SOLD ’83 JD 4450PS W/148 LOADER .............................SOLD Farmall 340 wf w/mower .........................................$3,000 New Massey Tractors ......................................... On Hand ’07 Massey GC2300 w/loader.................................. SOLD 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 Taking 2022 New Spring Orders COMBINES NEW Geringhoff chopping cornhead ....................Call ’12 Gleaner S77 ..............................................$179,000 ’03 Gleaner R65 .............................................. $72,000 ’95 Gleaner R52 w/cummins ........................... $32,500 ’89 Gleaner R60 w/both heads ........................ $15,500 Geringhoff parts & heads available

’11 Sunflower 4412-07...........................................$28,000 ’13 CIH 870 9-24 ................................................. $38,500 ’13 Wilrich 513 5-30 ............................................ $31,500 ’02 DMI TMII 34’ 4bar.............................................SOLD

MISCELLANEOUS

NEW Salford RTS Units ........................................ Call NEW Unverferth Seed Tenders .............................. Call NEW Westfield Augers .......................................... Call NEW REM VRX Vacs. .......................................... Call NEW Hardi Sprayers ............................................. Call CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT 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

Thank You For Your Business!

(507) 234-5191 (507) 625-8649 Hwy. 14, 3 miles West of Janesville, MN

Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:00 • Sat. 7:30-Noon Very Clean Farm Estate Auction M AT T M A R I N G

CO.

We Sell the Earth & Everything On It.

Auction Location: 12755 46th Street Watertown, MN 55388

Friday, June 18, 2021 • 10:00 a.m.

All Machinery Is Well Maintained & Shedded Viewing: Saturday June 12 & Sunday June 13, 9:00AM – 4:00PM FOR COMPLETE DETAILS, PHOTOS & CATALOG GO TO

www.maringauction.com

4 Very Good IHC 986 & 886 Tractors & MF 275

IHC 986, 2458 Hrs, Cab, 18.4x34, 3pt, 540/1000PTO, 2 Hyd., Rock Box, SN: U17588; IHC 886, 6026 Hrs, 16.9x38, 540/1000PTO, 2 Hyd., 3pt, German Diesel, Rock Box, SN: U18129; IHC 886, 6938 Hrs, 18.4x34, 540/1000PTO, 3pt, 2 Hyd., Rock Box, SN: U1456; IHC 886, 6973 Hrs, 18.4x38, 540/1000PTO, 3pt, 2 Hyd., Rock Box, SN: U12265; MF 275, Open Station, 1320 Hrs, 15.5x38, Fenders, 540PTO, 3pt, 2 Hyd, 67 Hp; Set Of 18.4x38 Axle Duals

Gooseneck Flatbed, Tillage & Seeding Machinery, Farm Related Items

’14 Fleetneck By Diamond C Gooseneck Flatbed Trailer, 32’, 10,000lbs Tandem Axle Duals, Ramps; JD 215 Tandem Disc, 16.5’, Cone Blades; IHC 710 Plow, 3x18s, Auto; Kewanee 12’ Disk; Brillion 8’ Seeder/Cultipacker On Rubber; (2) IHC 45 Field Cultivators, 12’, 3pt & Pull Type; Kovar 4 Section Tine Drag On Cart; 95 Bushel Poly Cone Feed Bin On Skids; 16’ x 4” Auger; (2) Poly Hoppers; Easy Way Cattle Oiler; Poly Tube Round Bale Feeder; Livestock Gates; Electric Fencers, Steel T Post; (3) 40’ Extension Ladders; 25’ Extension Ladder; Scaffolding Set; (2) 20’

SILO REMOVAL 507-236-9446 Stormor Bins & EZ-Drys.

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

888-830-7757

Farm Equipment FOR SALE: Brandt model 5200EX grain vac; Brandt 10x70 grain auger w/ swing hopper; Demco 750 bu gravity box w/ tarp; New Idea round baler, model 4865, twine & net wrap; Tebben 3pt 9 shank, 30” spacing w/ cover boards; OMC 595 round baler w/ twine tie; (2) Hiniker 8R30” cultivators, 1 black 1 gray. All in good condition. Retiring. 320-630-1777 FOR SALE: Donahue 28’ trailer, $1,500; Hesston 30A stacker for parts or fix up, $1,200; Kuhn 12 bale accumulator & grabber, like new, $9,000; Miller Supreme silage wagon, good shape, heavy running gear, $500; Lilliston 8R30” cultivator, $1,000. 507-317-7529 FOR SALE: New Holland 311 baler, excellent condition, $4,500. 612-619-4003

Aluminum Planks; Lumber; Ramco Wallpaper Machine, Model HS-62; Painting Materials; Tractor Chains; Implement Tires & Rims; 300 Wooden Pallets ; Century Wire Feed Welder; Lincoln AC-180 Welder; Welding Table; Craftsman 10” Radial Arm Saw; Wilton Scroll Saw; 220 Electric Cord; Livestock Hair Clipper; Hay Core Sample Tester; Trophy Hunter & Police Trainer Arcade Game

MF & CIH Inline Balers, JD 466 Baler, Rakes, CIH Discbine, (19) Bale Throw Racks

MF Hesston 1840 Inline Small Square Baler, Belt Kicker, Hyd. Tension, Looks New; CIH 8530 Inline Small Square Baler, Belt Kicker, Hyd. Tension, Looks New; JD 466 Round Baler, Net/Twine, 4x6, 13,286 Bales, SN: 144319; Kuhn GF 7802 THA Digidrive Hay Tedder, 6 Wheels, Hyd. Lift ; H&S AR1061 V-Rake, 10 Wheel w/Kicker, Like New; H&S 10 Wheel V-Rake, Hyd. Lift; H&S Hay Machine Merger Tedder, 3 Wheel Wing; Pequea 710 Hay Tedder; CIH DC102 Discbine, 1000PTO, Good Rubber Rolls, 10’, Draw Bar Hitch; Allied 50’ Bale Conveyor, 1hp; 6 Place Round Bale Trailer, Self Unload; (19) Meyers, EZ Trail, H&S And Storm, 9’ x 16’ Bale Throw Racks, 8 & 10 Ton Gears; 5 Bar Hay Racks w/Squadron Hitch; (2) 3pt Bale Movers; (2) NH 56 Hay Racks; Rolls Of Net Wrap And Plastic Bale Twine Terms: cash, check, credit cards. All sales final. All sales selling as-is condition, with no warrantees or guaranty expressed or implied. All items must be paid for in full the day of the auction. 14 Days to remove the items purchased.

www.maringauction.com

Robert (Bob) McCabe Estate Ann McCabe, Seller/Owner

MATT MARING AUCTION CO. INC. • PO Box 37, Kenyon, MN 55946 507-789-5421 • 800-801-4502 Matt Maring, Lic. #25-28 • 507-951-8354 Kevin Maring Lic 25-70 & Adam Engen Lic# 25-93

THE LAND — MAY 28 /JUNE 4, 2021 Farm Equipment

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

Farm Equipment

Farm Equipment

PAGE 21

Farm Equipment

FOR SALE: Case IH #60 Harms Mfg. Land Rollers, JD 4255 2WD tractor, QR, 3 We buy stalk shredder, re-built with Brand New, 12’-$8,325; hyds, 14.9x46 tires w/ duals, Salvage Equipment hoods, knives & pins, $3,500. 14’-$8,825; 16’-$9,350; 24’- good condition, $31,900; WilParts Available Top Aire 500 gal sprayer, hyd $18,700; Hammell Equip., Inc. 32’-$22,450; 42’- Rich 1230 flat fold cultivator, x-fold, 60’ boom, Raven con- $26,000; Others from 8’-62’. $2,450; JD 856 6x30 cultiva(507)867-4910 troller, $5,000/OBO. Will sep- 715-234-1993 tor, $2,450; IH 133 16x22 foldarate. 507-276-5733 ing cultivator, $1,750; JD 346 Tractors baler w/ bale chute, $4,750.

Classified Line Ads .FOR SALE: JD 643 CH, like JD 40 bale thrower, all comr new, combined less than 20 plete, $950. 320-769-2756 NEW AND USED TRACTOR - acres per yr; also, Farmall PARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, Call 507-345-4523 . original White Cub w/ clipper 55, 50 Series & newer tracmower; 240 utility tractor, tors, AC-all models, Large Super MTA D; Wanted Brent Inventory, We ship! Mark gravity box. 320-282-4845 Heitman Tractor Salvage 715-673-4829 FOR SALE: 1993 1840 Case skid loader with accessories, l 5024 hours, 2 tires to go with t it, John Deere bale fork, 25 g Your ad gallons diesel fuel. 507-381could be here!

1160 a 507-345-4523 , Sell your farm equipment n in The Land with a line ad. g 507-345-4523 5 )FOR SALE: New Holland 1 269 baler with Pro Quality - hay basket, holds about 100 Tues. June 8th, 2021 bales, good shape, ties good, CALL FOR A QUOTE TODAY $1,950.

507-456-7614 Starts closing @ 6:00 pm ’ A Located: Hamilton Auction Co. off Interstate 90 at Dexter, MN Exit #193 FOR SALE: H&S MX170 feed , then 1/4 mile east on Hwy 16 (130 State Hwy 16) mill, full hydraulics, 7’ folding extension, excellent cone Visit our website for complete listing: www.hamiltonauctioncompany.com dition, $18,250. 507-217-7815 e , FARM - 1986 JD 3050, Ford New Holland T5060 MFD, Kubota L2050 DT, New HolHUBBARD COUNTY, MN GRAIN BIN SITE, FEED MILL & HOG BARNS ; land TN55, Brent 1396, 2020 East Trail 550 auger wagon, Brent 470, Brent 472, Kinze ,

WANTED

DAMAGED GRAIN STATEWIDE

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

Trucks and vacs available.

Immediate response anywhere.

JUNE CONSIGNMENT AUCTION ONLINE ONLY

PRUESS ELEV., INC. 1-800-828-6642

AUCTION OPENS: MONDAY, JUNE 14

CLOSES: TUESDAY, JUNE 22 | 10AM

2021

1 ,

WORK!

Tract 2 - 5± Acres

Tract 3 - 3± Acres

Tract 1: 1± Acres Tract 1 – Straight River Township - Grain Bin Site 268,000± bu.

AUCTIONEER’S NOTE: Grain site with feed mill Storage Capacity & Feed Mill and two hog barns sold in three separate tracts.

Tract 2 – Todd Township - Hog Finishing Barn & 5± Acres Tract 3 – Straight River Township - 1997 Hog Finishing Barn & 2.5± Acres

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, 320.693.9371 or 701.238.2570 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

600, 2018 Kinze Mach Till, Wil-Rich Quad 5, JD 3710 10 bottom plow, Hiniker 1000, Wil-Rich 16 row crop cult, Wil-Rich 3400 field cult, DMI anhydrous applicator #5250, Riteway 2130 rolling baskets, 2009 Reinke 7 tower center pivot irrigator, 2013 Reinke 4 tower center pivot irrigator, 2013 Reinke 10 tower center pivot irrigator, 2012 Reinke 11 tower center pivot irrigator, John Deere 7000 16 row 30” planter, JD 455 grain drill, JD 7100 12 row planter, John Deere 7000 planter, 935 Moco Discbine, 2017 Darf 1017L FD 18-wheel V rake, H&S 12-wheel V rake, Hesston 856A round baler. SEMIS & TRUCKS - 2011 Peterbilt 386 Cummins ISX, 2012 Peterbilt 389 Cummins ISX 15, 1981 Chevy grain truck. TRAILERS - 2011 Trail King TK70, 2013 Manc 48’ step deck, 2011 Timpte grain hopper trl, 2012 Timpte grain hopper trl, 1996 Coachman Catalina 5th wheel camper; VEHICLES - 2009 Ford F350, 2019 Ford F-350, 1986 Chevy Silverado, 1967 Pontiac Firebird.

RECREATIONAL - 2016 Polaris Ranger XP 900, 2006 Harley Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic, 1996 EZ-Go electric golf cart. CONSTRUCT - CAT D8 Dozer, CAT D8H Dozer, Int 3300B skid loader w/bucket, Cat GC30 forklift, 2018 JCB 3TS-AT Skid loader.

MOWERS - Kubota F3080, JD 445, 2018 Bad Boyz ZTElite 6000, 2018 Bad Boyz ZTElite 5400 AND MUCH MUCH MORE!!!

UPCOMING SALES - Saturday, July 24th – Rick Morem Estate Farm Auction (LIVE); Tuesday, July 27th – Rick Morem Estate Farm Auction (ONLINE); Saturday, August 7th , Duane Wigham’s Revocable Trust Farm Auction (LIVE); Tuesday, August 10th – Consignment Sale; Tuesday, August 24th - John & Becky Ramsey Farm & Household Sale (ONLINE); Monday, September 6th – Labor Day Consignment Sale; Tuesday, October 5th – Consignment Sale; Tuesday, December 7th – Consignment Sale; Tuesday, December 14th – Truck & Trailer Sale

Sale conducted by: Hamilton Auction Company 130 State Hwy. 16, Dexter, MN 55926 Phone: 507-584-0133

PAGE 22

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021 Planting Equip

Wanted

Cattle

FOR SALE: 2008 John Deere All kinds of New & Used farm FOR SALE: Semen tested 1750 planter, 8R30”, finger equipment - disc chisels, field Limousin black bulls, low pickup, dry fertilizer, row cults, planters, soil finishers, birth weight. John Goelz cleaners, John Deere mon- cornheads, feed mills, discs, Franklin MN. 507-215-0309 itor 350, low acres, $30,000. balers, haybines, etc. 507Polled Hereford Bulls, Fertili320-583-3131 438-9782 ty tested, calving ease. Buy Wanted to Buy: JD 725 6, 8 & now will hold till needed.

12 row - front mount cultiva- Delivery available. 608-235Spraying Equip tors; Stanhoist and Bushhog 9417 steel barge boxes; Gehl and FOR SALE: Hardi high wheel Lorentz grinder/mixers; plus sprayer, 80’ boom, 950 gallon all types of farm machinery. tank, rinse tank, hand wash Wanted: also JD 4430 1975 or tank, field ready, 3 way noznewer. 507-251-2685 zles. Retiring. 507-822-2188 WANTED: 1909-1940 Ford FOR SALE: 45’ Top Aire Cars & Parts, Old Tin, Porsprayer, 500 gallon tank, with controller, $3,000. 612- celain & Neon Signs, Old Gas Pumps & Globes, Old Oil 619-4003 Cans & Bottles, Other Old Registered Hereford yearCar Related Items. Please ling bulls for sale. Have Call 507-665-6893 Harvesting Equip had all shots, semen testWANTED TO BUY: 1960 John ed, poured and fly tags.

FOR SALE: John Deere 7720 Deere 730 diesel, pony start.

Halter broke and broke combine, Maurer hopper 507-831-1308 to lead. Fantastic growth extension, 643 John Deere E.P.D.’s. Delivery availWANTED: IH 1660 Combine cornhead. 507-220-0487 able. Klages Herefords, 612-867-2483 Ortonville, MN 320-2732163(H) 605-880-0521(C) Grain Handling

The choice is yours!

Equipment

Livestock

FOR SALE: MC model CF720 grain dryer, 3 phase, with FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls 2240 hours, $18,000; (3) 6” also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ augers with 3 phase motors, Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred Kemen 320-598-3790 $2,500/all 3. 507-456-3136

Contact us!

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

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

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 Place 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001 d Fax to: 507-345-1027 Your A Email: theland@TheLandOnline.com Today!

Online at: www.thelandonline.com

Want to contract for purchase of F1 Jersey cross calves.

Will provide semen and or bull at no cost to the producer. Call 507-383-6867 • Reach over 259,000 readers • Get more coverage • Start your ad in The Land • Add more insertions

THE FREE PRESS South Central Minnesota’s Daily News Source

THE LAND

1 run @ $19.99 2 runs @ $34.99 3 runs @ $44.99 Each additional line (over 7) + $1.40 per issue EXTENDED COVERAGE - must run the same number of times as The Land FARM NEWS (FN) - Serving farmers in Northwest Iowa, 14,219 circ.

THE COUNTRY TODAY (CT) - Serving farmers in Wisconsin, 25,000 circ.

THE FREE PRESS (FP) - Serving south central Minnesota, 22,500 circ.

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

= = = =

(Includes 1 Southern & 1 Northern issue)

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

= ____________________ = ____________________

 Photo (THE LAND only) $10.00 per run: oto (THE LAND only) $10.00 per run:

= ____________________ TOTAL

31

*

32

33

34

35

36

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  Housing Rentals  Farm Rentals  Merchandise  Antiques & Collectibles  Auctions  Hay & Forage Equipment

 Goats  Farm Services  Material Handling  Swine  Fencing Material  Bins & Buildings  Pets & Supplies  Feed, Seed, Hay  Grain Handling Equip.  Livestock Equipment  Fertilizer & Chemicals  Farm Implements  Cars & Pickups  Poultry  Tractors  Industrial &  Livestock  Harvesting Equipment  Dairy  Planting Equipment Construction  Trucks & Trailers  Cattle  Tillage Equipment  Recreational Vehicles  Horses  Machinery Wanted  Miscellaneous  Exotic Animals  Spraying Equipment  Sheep  Wanted NOTE: Ad will be placed in the appropriate category if not marked.

____________________ ____________________ ___________________ ____________________

= ____________________

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

Name ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________________________________ City _________________________________________________State_________ Zip ___________________________ Phone ___________________________________________# of times _______ Card # ___________________________________________Exp. Date________ Signature ____________________________________________________________

SORRY!

CHECK We do not issue refunds.

ADVERTISING NOTICE: Please check your ad the first week it runs. We make every effort to avoid errors by checking all copy, but sometimes errors are missed. Therefore, we ask that you review your ad for correctness. If you find a mistake, please call (507) 345-4523 immediately so that the error can be corrected. We regret that we cannot be responsible for more than one week’s insertion if the error is not called to our attention. We cannot be liable for an amount greater than the cost of the ad. THE LAND has the right to edit, reject or properly classify any ad. Each classified line ad is separately copyrighted to THE LAND. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

THE LAND — MAY 28 /JUNE 4, 2021 Swine

Pets & Supplies

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

Miscellaneous

dFOR SALE: Yorkshire, PUPPIES FOR SALE: BorREINKE IRRIGATION w Hampshire, Duroc, cross der Collie/Blue Heeler cross, Sales & Service z bred boars, gilts & 4-H pigs. born 4/01/21, first shots and New & Used Top quality. Excellent herd dewormed, $200/each. 507For your irrigation needs health. No PRSS. Delivery 383-6701 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073 - available. 320-760-0365 y Winpower Sales & Service .Spot, Duroc, Chester White, Miscellaneous Reliable Power Solutions - Boars & Gilts available.

Since 1925 PTO & automatic Monthly PRRS and PEDV. Delivery available. Steve PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS Emergency Electric GenerNew pumps & parts on hand. ators. New & Used Resler. 507-456-7746 Call Minnesota’s largest disRich Opsata-Distributor tributor 800-343-9376 HJ Olson & Company Thank you for reading Looking for something special?

320-974-8990 Cell - 320-212-5336

e . r -

THE LAND!

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes.

Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details. 855-752-6680 (MCN) DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CALL 1-855-977-7030 (MCN) BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels!

Free next day installation! Call 855-824-1258. (MCN) High-Speed Internet.

We instantly compare speed, pricing, availability to find the best service for your needs. Starting at $39.99/ month! Quickly compare offers from top providers. Call 1-855399-9295 (MCN) AT&T TV - The Best of Live & On-Demand On All Your Favorite Screens. CHOICE Package, $64.99/mo plus taxes for 12months. Premium Channels at No Charge for One Year! Anytime, anywhere. Some restrictions apply. W/ 24-mo. agmt (TV price higher in 2nd year.) Regional Sports Fee up to $8.49/mo. is extra & applies. Call IVS 1-866-387-0621. (MCN) DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply.

Promo Expires 7/21/21. 1-844316-8876. (MCN) Earthlink High Speed Internet.

As Low As $49.95/month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology.

Stream Videos, Music and More!

Call Earthlink Today 1-855-6797096. (MCN)

PAGE 23

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.

Put a line ad in The Land and find it!

Call 507-345-4523

C O M M E R C I A L APPLICATORS. Competitive wage and benefits, meal allowance, paid lodging.

Traveling position for railroad vegetation control, 60-80 hours/ week. RAW (Cooperstown, ND).

888.700.0292 www. rawapplicators.com, info@ rawapplicators.com. (MCN)

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 877-326-1608.

(MCN)

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare!

Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 844-716-2411. (MCN)

Put on your TV Ears and hear TV with unmatched clarity. TV Ears Original were originally $129.95 - NOW WITH THIS SPECIAL OFFER are only $59.95 with code MCB59! Call 1-855-958-5196. (MCN)

The Generac PWRcell, a solar plus battery storage system.

SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no Become a published author! obligation, quote today. Call Publications sold at all major 1-877-381-3059. (MCN) secular & specialty Christian Pay For Covered Home bookstores. CALL Christian Never Complete Again!

Faith Publishing for your FREE Repairs Care Home Warranty COVERS author submission kit. 1-888-981- ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND 5761. (MCN) APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE. $200.00 OFF + 2 FREE BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. Months! 1-844-596-1237. Hours EASY, ONE DAY updates! We Mon-Thu, Sun: 9:30 am to 8:00 specialize in safe bathing. Grab pm Fri : 9:30 am to 2:00 pm (all bars, no slip flooring & seated times Eastern). (MCN) showers. Call for a free in-home consultation: 855-836-2250. LONG DISTANCE MOVING: (MCN) White-Glove Service from America’s Top overs. Fully Eliminate gutter cleaning insured and bonded. Let us take forever! LeafFilter, the most the stress out of your out of state advanced debris-blocking gutter move. FREE QUOTES! Call: protection. Schedule a FREE 877-351-0672. (MCN) LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts.Call 1-855577-1268. Promo Code 285.

(MCN) Life Alert. One press of a button sends help FAST, 24/7! At home and on the go. Mobile Pendant with GPS. FREE First Aid Kit (with subscription.)

CALL 844-646-2333 FREE Brochure.

(MCN)

ADVERTISER LISTING Beck's Hybrids ............................................... 1 Fladeboe Land ............................................. 19 Generac ....................................................... 18 Greenwald Farm Center ................................ 19 Hamilton Auction Service ............................. 21 Henslin Auctions, Inc. .................................. 19 IDEAg Group, LLC ........................................ 3 K & S Millwrights, Inc................................... 9 Kannegiesser Truck ...................................... 13 Matt Maring Auction Co. .............................. 20 Pruess Elevator, Inc. .................................... 21 Rush River Steel & Trim ................................ 4 Schweiss Doors ............................................ 21 Scott Buboltz ................................................. 7 Smiths Mill Implement, Inc. ......................... 20 Steffes Group ..........................................20, 21 Volk Transfer ............................................... 22 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 418 South Second Street, Mankato, MN 56001 www.thelandonline.com

PAGE 24

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

THE LAND — MAY 28/JUNE 4, 2021

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

House celebrates Slayton’s history

C

hristopher and Flora Dinehart moved from Chicago to Slayton in 1882, the year the town was platted, because they thought it was a good place to open a bank. Nine years later they hired Minnesota architect Frank Thayer to design a house for them. The result — a mixture of Queen Anne and Stick style architecture — was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Today it is owned by Murray County and managed for the public’s use by the Murray County Historical Society.

Rose Schmit, Site Coordinator and Collections Manager, said there are three reasons it is on the Register. Two are the house itself, its architectural style and the fact that self-taught Minnesota architect Frank Thayer designed it.

However, most of the historical significance comes from its connection to the Dineharts. Christopher and Flora Dinehart were instrumental in building Slayton with the bank and other investments. They were also very invested in the education and social welfare of the town, Schmit said. They made it the center of Murray County.

Slayton, Minn.

Christopher invested in agriculture as well, owning farmland privately and through the Murray County Land Company, raising Morgan horses, and cultivating wheat that won an award at the World’s Columbia Exposition in Chicago in 1893.

The Dinehart’s son, Clarence, died of appendicitis at age 33 while serving as Minnesota’s State Treasurer.

Their daughter, Florence, married Harvey Holt and raised their three sons in the house. The middle son, Judge John Holt, was the last family resident. On his death in 1993, the house and its furnishings were sold at an estate sale, but when the house was again for sale in 2007, Murray County purchased it.

While the family’s possessions were lost through the sale, the Historical Society has furnished the house with period furniture from their collection, and many features remain from the Dinehart days. A diamond frame in the family parlor displays a portion of that room’s original wallpaper, which the Society came

close to matching. The dining room walls and ceiling have colorful pressed tin, and there is a built-in sideboard decorated with wood carvings. The bathroom has the original pink marble sink. Stainedglass windows in memory of Clarence grace the foyer and stairway.

In these pandemic times, the Dinehart-Holt House has not been open to the public. But as restrictions ease, that may change. For updates on opening, as well as information on events and tours, visit www.murraycountyhistoricalsociety.org, or facebook.com/murraycountymuseum.

In normal times, the Historical Society has programs at the house throughout the year, continuing the hospitality for which the Dinehart and Holt families were known.

Tours are available at other times.

Slayton has moved on since the time of the Dinehart and Holt families, but their significance to the community is remembered and celebrated through the Dinehart-Holt house. v

©2021 Blue Horizon Energy LLC