THE LAND ~ September 10, 2021 ~ Northern Edition

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September 3, 2021 September 10, 2021

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THE THEFIRST FIRSTSOYBEAN SOYBEANSEED SEED TREATMENT TO INCLUDE TREATMENT TO INCLUDE SDS SDSAND ANDSCN SCNPROTECTION PROTECTION AT ATNO NOEXTRA EXTRACHARGE. CHARGE.

Break out the boots!

Farmers are actually finding mud after a much-needed rain event.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: The Land hits the road – visiting K&M Manufacturing and a farm turned event center in Taunton, Minn.

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

Rain lottery 418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56001 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XL ❖ No. 18 28 pages, 1 section plus supplements

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Cover photo by Paul Malchow

COLUMNS Opinion Farm and Food File Cooking With Kristin Calendar of Events Deep Roots Mielke Market Weekly Life on the Farm: Readers’ Photos From The Fields Marketing Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads

2-5 5 6 6 7 8 11 13 20 21-27 27 28

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:

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On Christmas Eve, many local weather and scorching winds did not. While crops broadcasts show the latest radar images certainly suffered, it is the livestock farmwith a sleigh and eight tiny reindeer ers who took even a bigger hit. With so moving across the sky. Santa is on his many mouths to feed and no greenery, way! herds were reduced or sold off completely.

With crops, each spring brings a new This summer, many adults have been growing season and a chance to regroup. anxiously watching radar images too.

Growing a herd takes more time.

Not for Santa, but for rain — or anything that might look like it would produce Last week, Minnesota had its first real LAND MINDS rain. One of the marvels of modern techrain event in about four months. And nology is the ability to track storms on when you’re growing corn or soybeans

By Paul Malchow your smartphone. (Well, at least an upwith 90-day maturity, four months is to-date smartphone. While I have eternity. graduated from the flip-top phone, my I expect yields to be all over the specsmartphone isn’t “smart” enough to trum — not only varying from farm to farm, but run the radar images. My wife’s phone is, however, field to field. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and together we peer into the screen — zooming in, will give us the big picture. Because of good seasons zooming out, searching for any weather pattern in the eastern and southern Corn Belt, USDA is heading our way.) estimating high bushel counts for both corn and It seemed there were multiple occasions where a soybeans. North and South Dakota and Minnesota promising cell, fat with yellow, oranges and reds won’t fare as well. Reports list Iowa as average, but would be strolling across Nebraska. One could from what I’ve read their situation is hit-and-miss almost feel the warm rain falling down on Lincoln as well. and Omaha and anticipating the wet relief the sumExperts say rain this late in the growing season mer storm would bring. will bulk up the weight of the grain, but bushels per Suddenly the cell takes a hard right through acre are pretty much set. We are now in a delicate northern Missouri, Illinois and Indiana — leaving balancing act of getting rain to replenish this arid us with a “what happened?” look on our faces and a summer and having it dry enough to get the crops feeling of betrayal. So close and so far away. out. Dick Hagen reported this recent rain activity has already thrown a small wrench into the sugar Other times, Mother Nature seemed to be extra cruel. We would watch the oncoming red and orange beet harvest. blobs approach. As they drew nearer, the reds There will be other issues to watch as harvest turned to orange which turned to yellow which unfolds. Some farmers have already contracted a turned to green … only to disappear entirely over portion of the 2021 crop and yields may come up Minnesota. short. Also, smaller yields will allow growers better The rainbow-colored blotches which did manage to storage options and they might hang on to this year’s crop a little longer. There are reports of lowerreach us were small, isolated storms which would than-average corn and soybean yields in South come and go like “whack a mole” targets on the America; and China rebuilding its swine population. weather map. A Minneapolis meteorologist calls Will China’s South American connections be able to these “popcorn” showers. Impossible to predict, supply the demand? Grain transport is also an these come-and-go cells were frequent (well, maybe issue. Shipping ports are clogged and truck drivers not that frequent) visitors to the summer of 2021.

The result of this weather activity is normal-looking are scarce. fields in one section and withered, curled-up leaves All of this points to a very volatile market where in the next. the latest developments will create big swings in Back in the day, church bazaars and town celebra- price. This will also impact dairy and livestock producers who are tightening belts and watching feed tions would have events where a section of grass costs. (And speaking of costs, we are hearing almost would be marked off in a grid. Each square would have a number and patrons would buy numbers. An daily reports of the cost of this or that going up, up, up.) animal (usually a cow or a chicken) would be led onto the grid and if the animal pooped on the Farmers I’ve spoken with are maintaining an optisquare with your number on it, you were a winner! mistic attitude — confident they can handle an off Substitute poop with rain and you have an idea of year in the fields and come back strong in 2022.

Whether or not Mother Nature poops in our square what farmers went through this summer. If rain is anyone’s guess. happened to land on your square, you were a winner.

Paul Malchow is the managing editor of The Land.

He may be reached at editor@TheLandOnline.com. v Unfortunately, folks in the northern half of Minnesota didn’t even get a chance to play this summer. Rain eluded much of the area; the heat

OPINION

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

S:9.417" www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

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Ethanol’s future is running out of gas

The key ingredients for a looming Nationwide in 2017, 2.4 billion bushels Leonard, took a swing in an editorial published by crack-up in ethanol — the fast rise of of corn were grown on 11.6 million irrithe Food and Environmental Reporting Network, or electric vehicles, lukewarm politics, and gated acres by using, on average, 325,500 FERN. Their idea positions biofuels with electric more evidence of catastrophic climate gallons of water per acre. That same mar- vehicles as allies, not enemies. change — are in place and few in U.S. ag keting year, U.S. ethanol plants used 5.6 In brief, they explain, while electric-powered cars policy circles are prepared to face that billion bushels of corn to make ethanol. are likely the future, there will still be a large marreality.

So, sooner or later, ever-greening ket for “liquid fuel” and “advanced biofuel” vehicles.

In fact, none of those woes are new; American taxpayers will want to know “But the most durable market for liquid fuel will be they’ve been building for years. why the nation continues to use everin heavy equipment, aviation and container ships.”

FARM & FOOD FILE dwindling, irreplaceable natural resourcFor example, the Trump Perhaps, but Big Ag’s default position is to defend es to grow a federally-subsidized feedBy Alan Guebert Administration’s almost carte an increasingly indefensible blending mandate built stock for a federally-mandated biofuel on 50-year-old home-grown fuel gibberish which has blanche blending waivers for gasoline market that — mandate or not — is refiners shrunk ethanol’s biggest funlittle relevance to today’s rapidly changing gasoline likely to shrink by at least one-third in market and an already changed climate reality. nel into American gas tanks. Next, its the coming decade. early denials of the Covid pandemic helped stall The Farm and Food File is published weekly gasoline sales. In 2020, gas sales were 119 billion Any farmer or farm group official want to take a through the United States and Canada. Past colgallons. By comparison, they were 140 billion galcrack at that one? umns, events and contact information are posted at lons in 2017.

On Aug. 22, two Iowans, Matt Russell and Robert www.farmandfoodfile.com. v Both combined to slice ethanol usage, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, from 15.7 billion gallons in 2017 to 13.7 billion gallons in 2020 while, incredibly, ethanol imports doubled from 77 million gallons to 144 million gallons.

The Biden Administration’s biofuel blending plan, now being discussed at the Office of Management and Budget according to Agri-Pulse, “is expected to To the Editor, ago before settlers came. Our water infiltration and propose reducing the renewable volume obligation It is said that since settlers came to America with retention has increased 6X fold! for 2021 but increase the mandate for next year.” their destructive tillage practices, half of our We’ve demonstrated this to thousands when tellThis having-it-both-ways approach means, at best, nation’s topsoil has eroded off the land to the ocean. ing about the 2010 Zumbro river flood event where a stagnant biofuel future. “Farm and biofuel groups I was shocked to read that Iowa’s soils flowing to our healthy soils infiltrated enough of a 13 inch rain are pushing for 15 billion gallons of ethanol in the the gulf of Mexico still exceeds their tons of comto meter the runoff on 129 acres through a 15-inch targets and an increase to the 2.43 billion gallon modities exported. culvert. biomass-based diesel goal set in recent RVOs,” or The half of our farmed top-soil still remaining are The greatest value to us by far from farming Renewable Volume Obligations, explained Agrilucky to test half the Soil Organic Matter content of Regeneratively has been our ability to reduce our Pulse. near-by never farmed soil. non-land out of pocket production cost by half or Good luck on achieving either; because, in early Thirty years-ago many of our farms soils were the more. It’s obvious costs are going to rise sharply August, the Biden White House announced its goal now. For decades Nature has provided most of our same. But after partnering with Nature through for up to 50 percent of all new cars sold by 2030 to inputs, making it possible to take corn off the comRegenerative Management for the last three be electric-powered. U.S. carmakers, already on that decades to grow our soils they are the complete bine with only $1 per bushel in input costs. road, eagerly accepted the challenge. opposite of what they were and most soils are today. Rod Sommerfield Mazeppa, Minn.

Neither Biden plan — reduced biofuel blending Many of our hardwood forest origin A Horizon topmandates or increased governmental favoritism of soils are now twice as deep as they were 200 years electric cars and trucks — means the end of ethanol. Together, however, they make it plain that agbased biofuels, and ethanol in particular, face a very tough future in the coming years.

How severe is yet to be determined; but corn-rich states like Iowa, where about 60 percent of the state’s field corn flows to ethanol plants, will be hardest hit. Nebraska, the nation’s second-largest state producer of ethanol, will take a hard pop, too.

In fact, Nebraska might face more pressure because much of its corn is grown under irrigation.

Send your letters to: Editor, The Land The 2017 Ag Census, the most recent census num418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001 bers available, shows 4 to 5 million of Nebraska’s 9.5 million corn acres that year were irrigated. (The e-mail: editor@thelandonline.com 2017 Ag Census also shows Nebraska with more total irrigated acres than California: 8.6 million All letters must be signed and accompanied compared to 7.8 million.) by a phone number (not for publication) to verify authenticity.

OPINION

Letter: The real value of putting carbon back in the soil

wants to hear from you!

Letters to the editor are always welcome.

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

‘Tis the season to celebrate the delicious tomato The crop of cherry tomatoes we have n growing at the Kveno house is bountiful This pasta dish features cherry tomatoes bursting this year. I have talked to other gardenwith flavor and fresh basil in this scrumptious creers who have had the same luck with ation. their tomatoes this growing season. I Pasta with 15-Minute Burst Cherry needed to get creative in finding ways to serve this delicious fruit/vegetable (let’s Tomato Sauce not get into that debate) that utilize the https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/ tomato’s fresh flavor. Here’s four recipes pasta-with-15-minute-burst-cherry-tomatoCOOKING that focus on the tasty tomato! sauce-56390060 WITH KRISTIN We’ve been serving caprese salad at my house 1 pound pasta

By Kristin Kveno at least three nights a week for the past month. It’s kosher salt a simple salad that’s flavorful and a great way to showcase 1/2 cup olive oil cherry tomatoes.

2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped 3 pints cherry tomatoes Caprese Salad https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/cherry-tomato-caprese- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper pinch of sugar salad-recipe 1 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil 2 pints multi-colored cherry tomatoes, halved freshly grated Parmesan (for serving) 8 ounce container small fresh mozzarella balls Cook pasta in a larger pot of boiling salted water, stirring occa1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil sionally, until al dente; drain and transfer to a large bowl.

2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar Meanwhile, heat oil in a 12” skillet or wide heavy saucepan over 1 teaspoon kosher salt medium-high. Add garlic, then tomatoes, pepper, sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoon black pepper teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes burst 1 cup small fresh basil leaves and release their juices to form a sauce, in about 6 to 8 minutes.

Combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, oil, vinegar, salt and pepToss pasta with tomato sauce and basil. Top with Parmesan. per in a large bowl. Stir in basil and serve immediately.

n Nothing beats the simplicity and yumminess of a tomato sandwich. This one contains heirloom or Israeli tomatoes to put a spin on a classic.

Calendar of Events

https://www.spendwithpennies.com/blt-salad/ 1/2 head iceberg lettuce chopped 1 romaine heart chopped 2 tablespoons parsley chopped 2 tomatoes cut into chunks or 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup bacon cooked and crumbled 3 green onions sliced 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or cheddar or feta cheese dressing: 1/3 cup sour cream 4 tablespoons mayonnaise 1/4 cup buttermilk 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon dry dill or 1 teaspoon fresh 1 teaspoon sugar Combine dressing ingredients in a canning jar and shake well to combine. Place lettuce in a large bowl and top with remaining ingredients. Drizzle with dressing and serve.

You can never have too many tomatoes — especially when there’s amazing recipes to try. Enjoy those terrific tomatoes today!

Kristin Kveno scours the internet, pours over old family recipes and searches everywhere in between to find interesting food ideas for feeding your crew. Do you have a recipe you want to share? You can reach Kristin at kkveno@thelandonline.com. v

Visit www.TheLandOnline.com to view our complete calendar & enter your own events, or send an e-mail with your event’s details to editor@thelandonline.com.

Sept. 11-15 — National Barrow Show — Austin, Minn. — The National Barrow Show is one of the longest running livestock shows in the country. Contact Denise Schneider at info@mowercountyfair.com or (507) 433-1868.

Sept. 11 — Hemp, Health and Local Food Day — Austin, Minn. — Learn about the benefits of hemp and locally grown food. Contact Laura Schreiber at lschreiber@landstewardshipproject.org.

Sept. 14 — Child Agricultural Safety and Health Workshop — Online — Interactive sessions help identify leading causes of injuries to children who are either working or playing on farms. Includes hands-on activities and small group discussions. Contact Info nccrahs@marshfieldresearch.org or (800) 662-6900.

Sept. 15 — Garden Tool Talk — Morris, Minn. — Class discussion on how to sharpen, maintain and clean your garden tools. Contact Esther Jordan at ejordan@umn.edu or (320) 589-1711 ext. 2152 Sept. 18 — Fiberfest at Keepsake Cidery — Dundas, Minn. — Local farm vendors selling raw fiber, yard and finished wool products. Contact Kendall Clements at keepsakecideryevents@gmail.com or (413) 504-3000.

Sept. 21 — Child Agricultural Safety and Health Workshop — Online — Interactive sessions help identify leading causes of injuries to children who are either working or playing on farms. Includes hands-on activities and small group discussions. Contact Info nccrahs@marshfieldresearch.org or (800) 662-6900.

Sept. 24 — Farm Equipment Safety Training: Implements and Trailers — Northfield, Minn. — Tour a suite of diversified small farm implements.

Practice operating a variety of implements and trailers. Learn how to safely operate PTO and ground driven tractor implements; learn basic implement maintenance; learn safe trailer hookup, operation and maintenance; demonstrate competency in implement and trailer operation. Contact Sharing Our Roots Farm at info@sharing-our-roots.org Sept. 23 — Hosting the Public on Your Farm — Mora, Minn. — Topics include market research, capital requirements, lending options, licensing, zoning, liability, food safety, animal and human safety, growing a business and sustaining it. Contact Rod Greder at gred0014@umn.edu or (320) 591-1662 Sept. 28 — Child Agricultural Safety and Health Workshop — Online — Interactive sessions help identify leading causes of injuries to children who are either working or playing on farms. Includes hands-on activities and small group discussions. Contact Info nccrahs@marshfieldresearch.org or (800) 662-6900.

Tomato Sandwich with Basil Mayonnaise

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/tomato-sandwich-with-basil-mayonnaise-recipe-1945384 1 cup good mayonnaise 10 to 15 basil leaves, chopped 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 tablespoon good olive oil 1 teaspoon minced garlic 2 slices country loaf bread 1 heirloom or Israeli tomato, sliced Whisk together the mayonnaise, basil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, olive oil and garlic. Spread the mayonnaise mixture on the top of 2 slices of bread. Place the sliced tomato on top of one bread slice. Place the remaining slice of bread, mayonnaise side down, on top of the tomato. Cut the sandwich in half and serve. n You can’t have a good BLT without the T. Use those gardenfresh cherry tomatoes and throw in bacon and blue cheese for a sassy salad all will love.

BLT Salad

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Many steps can be taken while going for a walk And so began the walks.

Two of my children Around the barn, into and showed goats this year as a out of the show ring, back county fair first. The three and forth and over and goats they took to the fair over. As Abby and Easton were born on our farm in walked their goats, they April and have been hangently spoke to them, dled since day one. We exhibiting kindness rather quickly learned, however, than frustration. I noticed that the saying “stubborn DEEP ROOTS some of the older 4H-ers as an old billy goat” also pertains to the junior class

By Whitney Nesse stop to give encouragement and really step into the role of wethers as well. of a mentor rather than being competThere were days those goats would itively aloof.

I watched the confidence lead like champs, walking along with and the animal/handler trust level their handlers, heads held high and grow as Abby and Easton simply seemed to enjoy the spotlight. There walked and talked to their animals. were also days that the kids more or The number of things which can be less dragged their goats around the solved by simply taking a walk is yard. Those stubborn little stinkers astounding. Attention can be diverted, would lock up their front legs and tempers can be cooled, patience can be firmly plant themselves, not wishing learned, wisdom can be gained, and to go anywhere. trust can be built. There is much simWe hoped, of course, that by fair plicity — yet there is great depth — in time the Pygmy’s would lead well — walking along with their handlers and an evenly-paced stroll. It’s no wonder Jesus chose to take a walk with two of ready for their time to shine. On the his followers on the road to Emmaus contrary. It felt as though the goats had conjured up a plan to sabotage my shortly after his body was resurrected.

Two grief-stricken followers of kids’ first attempt at showing goats as Christ were on their way back to soon as we got to the fair. They were Emmaus from Jerusalem, about a as stubborn as the day is long.

Some of the older 4H-ers generously seven mile journey, three days after the crucifixion. As they walked, anothoffered to have a mock show on our er traveler — Jesus (whom they did first day at the fair as a confidence not recognize) — joined them. Jesus booster for the first timers. As I stood inquired about the subject they were by with a few other parents, I painsso intently discussing. As they walked takingly watched my two oldest drag along, the two described the events of their goats through the show ring. I the recent days. They poured out began to dread show day. their breaking hearts to Jesus as He Feeling frantic, I asked a veteran earnestly listened. Jesus’ followers goat showing parent what we could do thought He would be the one to to get our goats to behave on show redeem Israel. Upon the death of day. His reply was simple: take them Christ, their hope was deferred and for walks. Walk them through the they were heartsick. Jesus, still unrecshow ring, around the barn, and while ognized by the two, then reminded you’re walking, talk to them. For the them of everything written about Him goats, the whole fair experience is new. beginning with Moses and all of the The lights, the noises, and the hustle Prophets. And as Jesus spoke to them, and bustle is completely foreign. The their hearts burned like a holy fire only thing familiar to them is their kindled by the truth, confirming their handler and their handler’s voice. beliefs.

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What a great example of how a simple walk can end in epic fashion!

During that walk, Jesus patiently listened. He calmly spoke. He reminded the two of centuries-old truths, and He fanned into flame what they already knew! Luke 24:13-35 gives us the full account of Jesus’ walk with the two.

I can’t help but to liken this story to the very same principles which were shared with me on our first day at the fair. “Walk with and talk to the goats, the only thing familiar to them will be the handler and the handler’s voice.”

I can almost imagine Jesus thinking the same thing! Walk with and talk with Me, you know Me and you know My voice. A walk with Jesus can bring us from a place of unwilling stubbornness and heartache to a place of willful submission and a heart on fire!

I know stubbornness well. There have been times when the Lord has tried to gently walk with me and I’ve planted my feet and refused to go. I

know the heartsick feelings well too.

Hoping for different outcomes; only to have my hope deferred. However, I also know when I willingly choose to participate in my walk with Jesus, after I have poured out my grief and gotten tired of refusing, He begins to speak. And when He speaks as we walk along, my heart truly burns within me. My passion for the Lord ignites and I am ready to continue on the walk.

Show day came and went. It was a great experience for Abby and Easton.

They brought home new confidence, new friends, new card games, a new level of responsibility for their animals. And most of all, they learned the importance and simplicity of going for a walk. A few red ribbons and two grand champions were added bonuses.

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

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

July cheese exports up 26.8 percent over June This column was written for the marketing week ending Sept. 3.

It was a week of Covid cases shooting higher across the country. Hurricane Ida attacked the Louisiana coast — plunging New Orleans into darkness News and information for Minnesota and Northern Iowa dairy producers and causing flooding in Mississippi, even reaching to New York and New MIELKE MARKET Jersey with rains and flooding. And, it Alfalfa hay averaged $201 per ton, up $2 from Louisiana. Power outages may keep them WEEKLY was the United States, in humiliating June and $29 above a year ago. at idled for some time. surrender, leaving Afghanistan after 20 n Dairy exports are one of the key drivers

By Lee Mielke years. With all that on our minds, I behind a record-high forecast for overall Looking at the cow side of the ledger, the July cull endeavor to report the dairy markets.

U.S. agricultural exports in USDA’s latest Outlook price for beef and dairy combined averaged $75.60 First, the U.S. Department of Agriculture for U.S. Agricultural Trade report, according to the per cwt. This is up $1.70 from June, $5.10 above announced the August Federal order Class III Aug. 31 Daily Dairy Report.

July 2020, and $4.00 above the 2011 base average of benchmark milk price at $15.95 per hundredweight. $71.60 per cwt.

“The agency increased anticipated agricultural This is down 54 cents from July, $3.82 below August exports for fiscal year 2021 (ending Sept. 30) by $9.5 Meanwhile, the USDA’s latest Crop Progress 2020, and the lowest Class III since February. The billion to $173.5 billion,” the Daily Dairy Report report shows 60 percent of U.S. corn was rated good eight month Class III average stands at $16.78, stated, “while lifting fiscal year 2022 exports by $4 to excellent, as of the week ending Aug. 29, down from $17.61 a year ago and compares to billion to a record-large $177.5.” unchanged from the previous week, but 2 percent $15.83 in 2019. below a year ago. Fifty-six percent of the soybeans “Stronger exports of milk powders and cheese to Late morning on Sept. 3, Class III futures had the Mexico and Asia motivated USDA to increase its had a good to excellent rating, also unchanged from September contract at $16.61 per cwt.; October, the previous week but 10 percent below a year ago. expectations for dairy exports in fiscal years 2021 $16.84; November, $17.07; and December at $17.40 and 2022 to $7.3 billion and $7.5 billion, respectiveIn the week ending Aug. 21, 59,000 dairy cows per cwt. ly,” according to the Daily Dairy Report, aided by were sent to slaughter, down 1,100 from the previThe August Class IV price is $15.92 per cwt., internationally competitive prices and a weak U.S. ous week, but 4,400 or 8.1 percent above that week down 8 cents from July but $3.39 above a year ago, dollar. a year ago. StoneX says dairy cow slaughter is curand the lowest since April. Its average for the year rently tracking above the three-year average. n stands at $15.12, up from $13.62 a year ago, and n Those exports numbers are great, but don’t appear compares to $16.19 in 2019. to be transferring into more profitability on the Global milk prices continue to show a competitive n farm. A continued falling All Milk price and higher advantage for U.S. processors, according to StoneX U.S. dairy exports continue to impress, according corn and hay prices in July were not offset by the Sept. 1 “Early Morning Update.” to HighGround Dairy’s Lucas Fuess. Reporting in drop in the soybean price and resulted in the U.S. “Ideally, this should continue to translate to export the Sept. 6 “Dairy Radio Now” broadcast, Fuess said milk feed ratio falling again, a descent that started July cheese exports, at 81.1 million pounds, were up in December, paused in April, but has resumed ever opportunities assuming logistics issues don’t continue to impact the market too much. U.S. milk produc26.8 percent from July 2020. The increase was driv- since. The USDA’s latest Ag Prices report has the en primarily by gains into Mexico, but also impresJuly ratio at 1.55, down from 1.60 in June, and com- tion growth has been slowing as has milk output in the EU. Feed costs continue to be an issue so we sive exports to Japan. pares to 2.72 in July 2020. expect milk production should be relatively conNonfat dry milk exports, at 160.9 million, were The index is based on the current milk price in strained for the remainder of 2021.” down 3.1 percent, Fuess said, but still on track for relationship to feed prices for a ration consisting of The latest Margin Watch from Chicago-based another record year-over-year increase, up 12.7 per- 51 percent corn, 8 percent soybeans and 41 percent cent. He emphasized the large increase of nonfat alfalfa hay. In other words, one pound of milk would Commodity and Ingredient Hedging LLC. Says, “Dairy margins were unchanged over the first half dry milk to China — which is buying it wherever it only purchase 1.55 pounds of dairy feed of that of August as increases in both milk prices and feed can in recent months. U.S. powder shipments were blend. costs were largely offsetting since the end of July.” the highest since March of 2014.

The U.S. All Milk price averaged $17.90 per cwt., It credited strength in cash cheese prices the past Dry whey totaled 37.3 million pounds, down 8.7 down 50 cents from June and $2.70 below the July week being supportive of Chicago Mercantile percent, though year-to-date is up 19.1 percent.

2020 average.

Exchange Class III futures but warned, “The overall U.S. butter volumes were good as well, though a California’s All Milk price fell to $18.20 per cwt., tone of the market remains bearish with spot fraction of the others, Fuess said. Butter totaled 8 also down 50 cents from June and $2.90 below a futures still down around $2.50 from their May million pounds, up 80 percent from a year ago, with year ago. Wisconsin, at $17.70, was down 60 cents highs.” year-to-date exports up an impressive 136.1 percent. from June and $4.60 below a year ago.

“Milk production remains strong for this time of Interestingly, the United States imported 8.6 milThe national average corn price hit $6.12 per the year as demand uncertainty lingers from the lion pounds, up 11 percent from a year ago, and bushel, up 12 cents per bushel from June, and a advancing Delta variant of Covid-19 and indications cheese imports totaled 37.5 million pounds, up 33.3 whopping $2.91 per bushel above July 2020. from Open Table that U.S. restaurants are no longer percent. showing growth in demand, with some significant Soybeans averaged $14.10 per bushel, down 40 Fuess also reported that Hurricane Ida impacted slowing evident in states more heavily impacted by cents from June after falling 30 cents the previous feed prices after damaging grain export elevators in month, but were still $5.60 per bushel above July See MIELKE, pg. 9 2020.

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

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

PAGE 9

Low milk prices, high feed costs leveling production, demand MIELKE, from pg. 8

Market Report says, “Low milk prices and high feed Dairy prices at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange costs, a.k.a. depressed margins, are slowly bringing started September with butter and powder climbing the current Covid-19 surge. Mobility data similarly WE BUILD OUR STALLS RIGHT! U.S. milk production back in line with demand. and cheese and whey falling, as traders anticipated suggests a modest slowdown in travel.” look Labor at Daily average production was down almost 2 perthe Sept. 3 July Dairy Products andTake the along The Margin Watch cited USDA’s decreased forecent from the spring flush high in April, a largerDay holiday weekend. our tubing with cast in U.S. milk output in the latest World than-usual drop.” unequaled The 40-pound cheddar blocks started thecorrosion week Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, but protection!

“Futures markets have taken notice,” adds NMPF, dropping 4 cents, but rallied late in the week to said, “The bigger surprise was on the feed side “ending the long slide in their collective estimate of close on Sept.

3 at $1.7350 per pound.

This is down Freudenthal Tubing has been where USDA cut the corn yield projection by 4.9 calendar year 2021 average milk prices beginning in 1.5 cents on the week and 39 cents below a year ago engineered for your specific bushels from July to 174.6 bushels per acre, down 2 mid-May. Rising cheese prices have been a key drivwhen they pole vaulted 29.75 cents to $2.125. requirements where strength million from the average industry estimate.” er of this recent recovery.” corrosion TheLocks 500-pound barrelsandlost 3.75resistance cents are on CORROSION Auto Release Head Panel cheddar “The soybean yield was similarly trimmed to 50 critical design factors.

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PROTECTION bushels per acre from 50.8 in July and likewise 3 at $1.3925 per pound. This is down a penny on the below the average pre-report estimate of 50.3 bush- proportionately into American-type cheese, growth CS-60 Comfort Tie they Stall in commercial use of such cheese hit double-digit week, 30.75 cents below a year ago when els. Both corn and soybean meal pushed higher folpercentages during the second quarter, while use of jumped 27 cents to $1.70, but are 34.25 cents below lowing the report, and high feed costs continue to The Toughest other types of cheese grew by fully half this amount. the blocks.

Only four cars of block were sold on the raise breakeven prices for most dairy operations Domestic use of milk in all products showed a 1 perweek at the market of last resort, with 23 in the Stalls which now generally need at least $18.00 per cwt. to cent gain, while exports continued their march month of August, up from 21 in July. There on were the 16 cover all costs,” the Margin Watch concluded. toward a new record •as a percent of domestic milk sales of barrel on the week and 72 on the month, Provides superior lunge area market, n solids production,” NMPF concluded. down from 111 in July.

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

New dairy donation program will assist farmers and consumers MIELKE, from pg. 9 Midwestern cheesemakers tell Dairy Market News production schedules remain busy; but staffing shortages are adding stress to a growing number.

Regional cheese sales are healthy and pizza cheese producers continue to turn down orders. Mozzarella inventories are tightening. Curd and barrel sales are steady week to week. Regional cheese market movements were more bullish than bearish, says Dairy Market News, despite the CME price fluctuations.

Cheese demand remains steady in the west in retail and food service though there is concern about the current surge of Covid-19 cases affecting demand, particularly with food service. Demand remains strong from international purchasers but ongoing port congestion is causing delays. Domestic loads are also facing delays due to a shortage of truck drivers and limited available shipping supplies. Inventories of both barrels and blocks are available, says Dairy Market News n CME butter had a great week climbing to its Sept.

3 close at $1.7975 per pound. This is 9 cents higher on the week, the highest since June 17, and 30.5 cents above a year ago. Twenty-eight cars were sold on the week and 106 in the month, up from 55 in July.

Butter production remains busy, says Dairy Market News, in spite of lighter seasonal cream supplies. Plant managers’ reports of staffing shortages are growing and plant schedules would be more routine if it were not for thinly stretched workforces.

Cream multiples are a little steeper week to week and some producers are bidding for fourth quarter cream supplies. Butter sales remain somewhat steady. Retail sales have yet to lift, but fall demand upticks are expected near-term.

Cream availability continues to taper in the West and contacts note staffing issues and delivery delays are interrupting production at some plants. Cream would be tighter if facilities were able to operate full steam, says Dairy Market News. Other contacts, however, report unhindered churning schedules and receipt of steady cream supplies to maintain typical seasonal butter production. Inventories are available.

Retail sales are stable and contacts say some grocers are increasing orders heading into fall and the holiday season. Food service demand remains steady to growing, despite lingering concerns about the Delta variant. The restaurant sector is reportedly particularly busy, says Dairy Market News.

Grade A nonfat dry milk had a good week, closing Sept. 3 at $1.34 per pound, up 4.75 cents on the week and 31 cents above a year ago. Sixteen carloads traded hands on the week, with 34 sold in August and 34 sold in July.

Dry whey had a down week, finishing at 48.5 cents per pound, down 1.5 cents (the lowest since

Aug. 4), but still 15.25 cents above a year ago. Two sales were reported for the week at the CME and 13 for the month, down from 17 in July. n In politics, The National Milk Producers Federation stated that dairy farmers welcomed assistance from USDA in August via the new Dairy Donation program as well as the adjustments to the Dairy Margin Coverage program; and the new Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance program which will partially reimburse farmers for losses that arose from how the department approached dairy purchases for food-insecure families in 2020.

“These initiatives will help farmers during difficult times, and they happened because NMPF worked closely with USDA and Congress to help dairy farmers better manage their risks and serve their communities,” a NMPF press release stated.

“The $350 million in reimbursements is a partial balm that begins to redress policies that created unintended harm, but it isn’t a fair deal for all dairy farmers,” NMPF argued.

“USDA’s new program attempts to rectify two policy actions that left many in dairy on the wrong end of unplanned consequences,” NMPF charged. “The immediate trigger was government food-box program purchases that were heavily weighted toward cheese. That over-emphasis sent Class III cheese prices to all-time highs and caused unusual and uneven impacts on milk checks, most commonly noticed via the record negative Producer Price Differentials seen during the pandemic.”

“The other culprit was an attempted good-faith policy change that inadvertently became a ticking time bomb, exploded by those same milk-price gyrations. A change to the Class I mover formula, which sets the price of Class I fluid milk, in the 2018 farm bill was originally proposed as a revenue-neutral adjustment designed to encourage increased fluid milk sales without hurting farmers. It turned out to be anything but that,” NMPF stated.

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

www.TheLandOnline.com Funds to update livestock operations Minnesota livestock farmers and ranchers seeking to improve their livestock operation are encouraged to apply for the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Livestock Investment Grant program. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture anticipates awarding up to $1.3 million using a competitive review process.

There will be two rounds of funding. In Winter/ Spring 2022, a second RFP will be issued for any remaining funds.

The AGRI grants encourage long-term development in Minnesota’s livestock industry through investment in facilities, infrastructure, and equipment.

Applicants may apply for up to 10 percent of their

project’s total cost. Grant awards can range in size from $400 to $25,000. Each livestock operation is eligible to receive a lifetime maximum of $50,000 from this grant program. To be eligible for reimbursement by this grant, you must be invoiced and pay for all project materials and services after Jan. 1, 2022.

Proposals must be received no later than 4 p.m. on Nov. 17 for it to be considered. Applicants are encouraged to use the online application.

More information about the grant can be found at https://www.mda.state.mn.us/business-dev-loansgrants/agri-livestock-investment-grant.

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

Webinars for Farm Safety and Health Week AgriSafe has prepared daily webinars to help bring attention to the risks of working agriculture.

Daily themes are: Sept. 20 — Tractor Safety and Rural Roadway Safety; Sept. 21 — Overall Farmer Health; Sept. 22 — Safety and Health for Youth in Agriculture; Sept. 23 — Agricultural Fertilizer and Chemical Safety; and Sept. 24 — Safety and Health for Women in Agriculture.

AgriSafe’s free webinars will share information on tractor and roadway safety, safeguarding our youth,

anhydrous ammonia safety, respiratory protection, mental health, and women’s health issues.

AgriSafe is an international 501©3 organization representing health and safety professionals who strive to reduce health disparities found among the agricultural community.

For more information on National Farm Safety and Health week webinars, visit https://www.agrisafe. org/event/national-farm-safety-and-health-week/.

This article was submitted by AgriSafe. v

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

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

Euerle crowned Princess Kay

Photos courtesy of Matt Adington

Anna Euerle, a 19-year-old college student from Litchfield, Minn., was crowned the 68th Princess Kay of the Milky Way in an evening ceremony at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds on Aug. 25.

Ten county dairy princesses from throughout Minnesota competed for the Princess Kay title. Isabelle Lindahl of Lindstrom, representing Chisago County, and Megan Meyer of Rollingstone, representing Winona County, were selected as runners-up.

Kelsey Erf of Oakdale representing Washington County, Emily Leonard of Norwood Young America representing Carver County, along with Lindahl, were named scholarship winners. Katrina Thoe of Hayfield, representing Dodge County, was named Miss Congeniality.

Euerle, representing Meeker County, is the daughter of Vaughn and Joan Euerle and attends Ridgewater College.

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PAGE 12

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

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

K&M Manufacturing much more than just a better tractor seat

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus RENVILLE, Minn. — Yes, a strange title; but an Aug. 17 visit with Brandon Wulf, general manager of K&M Manufacturing in Renville, Minn. surprised me. I was taken aback with the size and scope of this facility — squeezed into a four-block area adjoining downtown Renville (population 1,189). And I learned Brandon Wulf K&M not only provides ‘sitting comfort’ for farmers, but also for thousands of folks with garden tractors, riding lawn mowers, etc.

Along with OEM suspension, replacement static and non-suspension seats, K&M produces tractor LED work lighting, cab interior products, tractor steps, skidsteer plates and attachments, tractor monitor brackets and tractor mirrors.

I expressed my surprise to Wulf —an energetic 41-year old who started in K&M’s sales department.

“We’re still making tractor seats and that business is good,” Wulf said, “in fact, still growing. We not only make our own restoration tractor seats, but we are also an aftermarket distributor for a lot of OEM tractor seats — including air-suspension seats which have become very popular. We are in several different markets and provide seating for other equipment

including lawn mowers, construction equipment, skid steers and fork lifts. We are now selling all sorts of seats and other products beyond the restoration of tractor seats which launched our growth.”

Wulf admitted tractor seats still dominate K&M’s market. “I don’t have exact data, but wager 60 to 70 percent are tractor seats. Turf equipment is now up to about 10 percent; the construction industry getting the remaining 20 percent or so. Yes, seats for equipment are big for us; but we manufacture other products such as tractor mirrors, tractor steps and reinforced rock boxes for mounting on tractor fronts.”

“About five years ago we started manufacturing and assembling log splitters for our parent company, Great Northern Equipment,” Wulf continued. “That too keeps growing. Then, not even a year later, we started assembling garden tillers when GNE acquired a tiller company and moved that production to our Renville facility. Yes, these new products generate increased production hours and parts acquisitions too … which is adding up to more space being needed.”

In light of the pandemic and economy, with more people staying at home, garden tillers have been a plus for K&M. “The last 18 months garden tiller sales have been very good,” Wulf admitted, “and likely to continue. As more people elect to work from their homes, garden work is becoming an important

necessity.”

Even with an extensive existing product line, research and development play a large role in K&M’s future plans. “Several people are involved in R&D here at Renville,” said Wulf, “all of whom play an integral part in the development of a new product.

We have a broad dealer base (over 3,500 dealers across the country) generating an extensive customer base also. Nothing better than our dealers, and their customers sharing new ideas on something that just maybe could be added to our manufacturing capabilities. Plus, I’ve got some farmers on staff here so there’s a never-ending mix of new ideas. That’s a big part of what keeps K&M a vibrant company. I doubt the ‘new idea’ fountain will ever run dry around here.”

Wulf received his Sales and Marketing degree at Ridgewater College, just up the road at Willmar, Minn. After attending four-year state colleges in Mankato and Marshall, Wulf began his 11-year stint at K&M. With his business background, I asked Wulf if he had concerns for the U.S. economy. “A growing economy benefits us because we have such a diversified product line and our buying audience is getting even more diversified,” he responded. “Farmers are still our bread and butter so to speak; but that nonfarmer market keeps growing. Plus we’ve got prodSee K&M, pg. 16

We Wecan’t can’tpromise promiseyou’ll you’lltrust trustyour your daughter’s daughter’sprom promdate, date,but butyou youcan canput putyour your trust trustininaafamily-owned family-ownedseed seedcompany. company.

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

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

PAGE 13

Rain is welcomed as growers prepare for harvest Mark Wettergren, Blair Hoseth,  St. Peter, Minn.  FROM THE Mahnomen, Minn. — — August 27 FIELDS

August 26

Speaking to The Land by phone on Aug. 26, at the opening day of the Minnesota State Fair, Blair Hoseth was ready to get himself a turkey leg and check out all the machinery on display. Hoseth was in a more hopeful mood as his farm received an inch of rain in the last week. “That was more than we got in the last two months.”

He has wrapped up baling corn stalks for two different farmers. Unfortunately, one of the fields was so poor quality that it resulted in less than one bale per acre.

Looking at his corn crop, he knows some of the corn is beyond help. “I think there will be a wide-range.” He believes that his corn may yield around 120 bushels per acre. As for the soybeans, it will be go-time for the earlier varieties. “Some of the beans, the early ones, we’re looking at combining soon.” Hoseth expects to begin bean harvest in two weeks.

“Our alfalfa fields look so dead.” Hoseth’s concerned if all crop will make it, he thinks there’s possibility of having to spring seed the alfalfa next year.

There’s more rain in the forecast, something Hoseth’s excited about. The watering holes are still dried up, however, and he’s hauling water daily to three pastures for the cattle. “We have moisture enough to hold the dust down. The air is better.” v

 

Compiled by KRISTIN KVENO, The Land Staff Writer



Steve Wertish, Olivia, Minn. — August 30

“The drought is over here.” The Land spoke with Steve Wertish on Aug. 30. He reported that between four and five inches of rain fell at his farm last week. Unfortunately, the rain came too late to make a huge impact on the crops. Though Wertish is looking ahead, knowing that the rain now is recharging the ground for next year.

“The corn is uneven.” Wertish has seen some corn that is now yellow and corn that is still green. Some of the crop is cannibalizing itself to fill the cobs. Wertish expect varying yields this harvest.

Sugar beet pre-haul has begun. “It looks pretty good.” The rest of the beets will be harvested in about three to four weeks. Edible beans aren’t quite ready for harvest yet.

Soybeans are looking nice. “There will be some nicer size beans.” While it looks better, Wertish isn’t overly optimistic there will be a great crop.

The focus for Wertish in these next few weeks is to get machinery ready for harvest, checking over everything. He expects to be combining beans in about three weeks. “It will probably be an early start to harvest.”

The crops are improving, and harvest is just around the corner. The rain has provided a sense of hopefulness. “It makes you feel better.”. v

Harvest preparations are underway on the Wettergren farm. The Land spoke with Mark Wettergren on Aug. 27 as he reported the combine and corn head are ready to go; the bean head is in the shop and he’s checking out his grain cart. He will be prepping the bins next week. There’s a lot of excitement and enthusiasm in the air as it’s almost time for Wettergren to get in the combine. “I’m thinking it’s (harvest) going to be early.”

“Since last Friday we got three inches.”

Wettergren reported that those inches will help fill out the soybean pods. He’s hopeful the moisture will help with test weights on corn.

He expects by the third week of September harvest will begin. He will be combining beans first; he wants to give the corn more time out in the field. “We might as well let Mother Nature dry it.”

More rain is expected today. This growing season, Wettergren feels grateful for every drop of rain the farm gets. “We’re very fortunate to be where we’re at.” v

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

Cover Crops Council is valuable resource for beginners

By TIM KING The Land Correspondent SHELBYVILLE, Ind. — With more attention being paid to the implementation of cover crops, The Land contacted Anna Morrow for her expertise on the subject. Morrow is the Program Manager at Midwest Cover Crops Council. Founded in 2006, MCCC works with farmers, universities, federal and state agencies, and other individuals and organizations to facilitate the widespread adoption of cover crops across the Midwest. The Council serves farmers in Minnesota and Iowa as well as a number of other Midwestern states and Ontario.

The Land talked with Morrow about the organization’s work getting cover crops adopted across the Midwest.

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cereal rye cover, and so it’s a good The Land: You’re in Indiana. choice for beginners. As we state Are cover crop strategies in on all our recipes, they are intendIndiana relevant to farming with ed to provide a starting point for cover crops in Minnesota and farmers who are new to growing Iowa? cover crops.

Morrow: Cover crop principles The Land: You’re emphasizing are basically the same throughout that these cover crops are a good the Midwest. But species, growing starting point for beginners. Why seasons, and pest concerns vary the focus on beginners? across the region. We like to organize our recommendations by state Morrow: MCCC tends to focus or province to better work with our on farmers new to cover crops partners. We work closely with with resources such as our recipes Midwest land grant universities and our cover crop selector tool and like to take advantage of the that uses county-specific weather synergy of working together along data. Since the majority of farmwith other government and indusers are in this category, we feel try partners. like this is the most impactful.

More experienced cover crop The Land: Your website has farmers would likely find our netstate-by-state cover crop recipe recwork of experts from industry, ommendations. MCCC is recomacademia, and other farmers more mending oats or a mixture of oats valuable. Once farmers have a and radishes in Minnesota or Iowa when going from soybeans to corn.

Photos submitted little experience, they’re usually Top photo: Ann Morrow is photographing more comfortable tweaking cover Why oats and radishes? a radish planting.

Morrow: Most of our cover crop Bottom photo: The flowering plant is hairy crop management for their sperecipes and guidance generally vetch. Hairy vetch is a versatile cover crop cific situation.

The Land: I’m farming vegetarecommend oats or oats with rad- species which does well in Minnesota and bles on a small scale. We’ve hisish after soybean and before corn. fixes nitrogen. It can also be grazed. torically planted oats following This is a good low-risk entry point early onion and potato harvests. for becoming more comfortable This year we planted peas and with cover crops. Typically we sunflowers with the thinking that have a little more growing season diversity was a good thing. Do you left after soybean harvest, so have thoughts on the value of that’s a better time for cover crops diversity in cover crops? that will winter kill like oats and radish. We like winter killed covMorrow: Diversity is valuable ers ahead of corn for beginners as long as you can manage it because we don’t have the risk of without putting your cash crop at nitrogen tie-up that we have with risk. For example, radishes are an actively growing cover in the recommended in Minnesota after spring like cereal rye; and, addia canning crop because there is tionally, there is basically no more time to get a benefit from spring management. their growth as compared to after soybeans. Radishes are a great The reason some states recomway to add some diversity to your mend radish while others don’t is crop rotation and sequester nutrithat radishes are more sensitive ents. They are also useful in to cold weather and just don’t perreducing soil compaction which is form well without adequate heat. a big concern after canning crop So northern states may not recharvest. ommend radishes.

The mixture that you used is also a good mix in The Land: In Iowa and Minnesota, MCCC recommends using a cereal rye cover crop following corn terms of diversity, because it has three different and going to soybeans. Why a cereal rye and not oats? classes of cover crop species.

The Land: Would you recommend seeding any of Morrow: We like cereal rye before soybeans because it’s very hardy and can handle late planting your recipes before harvest? after corn harvest. It also makes a great cover to supMorrow: Oats, radish, and cereal rye can be seedpress weeds and provide some mulch for the beans ed before harvest, and this is a great way to extend into the growing season. Soybeans don’t really mind the nitrogen tie-up which typically comes with a See COVER CROPS, pg. 16

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

LED lighting kits are K&M’s latest product venture K&M, from pg. 12

back orders. These days, shipping containers are ucts for new tractors and difficult to get your hands older tractors too.” on … and shipping costs What new product is are crazy. Also, some of K&M’s current best sellour parts come from overer? “LED lighting has seas suppliers which adds exploded!” replied Wulf. to concerns.”

“Many new and older Wulf wrapped up our tractors come with haloconversation saying gen lights … head lights, GNE’s diverse product work lights. We upgrade line keeps K&M optimisthem to LED lighting … tic for the future. GNE specific kits for these new has a strong export martractors. These are plugket with Canada and is in ready lights.” making inroads into Wulf added John Deere Europe just a bit. As GNE Photos by Dick Hagen continues to be K&M’s Sharon Hanson is a 17-year employee of K&M Manufacturing Marlene Haubaker is a 33-year employee and works in seat continues to expand its assembly. number-one market. and is a sewer. product line, Wulf expects “John Deere leads the K&M to be part of those parade,” he said. “We offer seats for John Deere trac- ing struggle,” said Wulf. “Our 15 to 20 percent yearly expansions. “Log splitters are a good example,” he tors dating back to the 1950’s era. The Sound Guard growth has been the pace for some time now. Our said. “right now we’re up to six lines of log splitter series of mid to late 70’s are still some of the most work day starts at 7 a.m. with a 4:30 p.m. shut down. fabrications and five different lines of garden tillers.

Production staff leaves at noon on Fridays.” popular seats we sell.

Yes, this drought and higher production costs for “Right now, because of the world-wide pandemic, farmers is tightening farm income right now. But K&M currently employs 65 people at the Renville facility and could be looking to add six to eight more. supply issues and the rising cost of materials are a thanks to our diversity, I don’t think we’ll feel any v “As everyone knows these days, hiring new is a grow- concern,” Wulf continued. “We’re sitting on lots of particular pinch.”

Cover crop species selection varies by region COVER CROPS, from pg. 14 the growing season for your cover crop. It also allows you to use some species that would otherwise not have enough time to establish before a killing frost if they were seeded after harvest.

Some farmers are doing some early inter-seeding of cover crops before the corn canopies. Timing, species selection, and management are more advanced for this practice and are very regionally specific.

The Land: What herbicides are generally used for termination of cereal rye? Are there any carry over risks? I’m an organic farmer. Are you aware of successful mechanical termination with equipment like crimpers?

Morrow: Generally speaking, for cover crop termination a routine burn-down herbicide will kill an actively growing cover crop in the spring. Where we need to be careful is when residual herbicides are used in season and a cover crop is planned for later that fall.

Lots of farmers are having success using a roller crimper for termination of a few covers like cereal rye. This is an intensive management practice which needs to be very specific. Roller crimping needs to be done at antithesis or when the rye begins to shed pollen. You want to be sure to use a stated variety, so that you know it will reach this growth stage uniformly and timely enough for cash crop planting.

Beginning, as well as experienced cover crop farm- extensive resources on cover crop species including ers, can learn more about MCCC’s state-by-state cover brassicas, grasses, legumes, and non-legumes such as crop recipes and their management by visiting their sunflowers and buckwheat. v website at www.mccc.msu.edu. The website also has

USDA helps pay certification costs Organic producers and handlers can now apply for U.S. Department of Agriculture funds to assist with the cost of receiving or maintaining organic certification. Applications for the Organic Certification Cost Share Program are due Nov. 1.

“USDA is here to help all producers, including those who grow our nation’s organic food and fiber. Many farmers have told us that cost was a barrier to their ability to get an organic certification,” said Zach Ducheneaux, administrator of USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). “By assisting with the costs, this program can help organic farmers get their certification along with the benefits that come with it.”

OCCSP provides cost-share assistance to producers and handlers of agricultural products for the costs of obtaining or maintaining organic certification under the USDA’s National Organic Program. Eligible producers include any certified producers or handlers who have paid organic certification fees to a USDAaccredited certifying agent during the 2021 and any

subsequent program year. Producers can be reimbursed for expenses made between Oct. 1, 2020 and Sept. 30, 2021 including application fees, inspection costs, fees related to equivalency agreement and arrangement requirements, travel expenses for inspectors, user fees, sales assessments and postage.

For 2021, OCCSP will reimburse 50 percent of a certified operation’s allowable certification costs, up to a maximum of $500 for each of the following categories: crops, wild crops, livestock, processing/handling, and State organic program fees.

Organic farmers and ranchers may apply through an FSA county office or a participating state agency.

To learn more about organic certification cost share, visit usda.gov/organic This article was submitted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. v

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

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PAGE 17

Family farm turned event center seemed meant to be

By RICHARD SIEMERS foundation. It was intended as a man cave The Land Correspondent and vehicle storage, but turned into a family gathering spot. Fier systematically put When Dale Fier named his repurposed new siding on the other buildings he farmstead south of Taunton, Minn. the intended to keep. One of those buildings “Heritage Event Center,” it is not a name was the barn, which he started straightenhe pulled out of the air because it has a ing in 2005. nice ring. He intended it to be descriptive of his retirement venture.

“It was a promise to my dad that I would never let that old historic barn collapse,” “I try to incorporate as much history as Fier said. “That was the first building built possible into the place,” Fier said. on the place.”

He has plenty of history to work with.

His great-great-grandparents live in that “The best I can decipher, we have it narbarn with the animals for a year before rowed down to 1886 when my great-greatthey moved into a shanty while the house grandparents first came and lived in a was being built. What Fier didn’t realize soddy down by the valley.” was that the barn was going to give a whole new look to his retirement.

They stayed, and so did succeeding generations until Dale and his siblings were Since he was able to work at his job the latest generation to grow up on what remotely, he would commute back and was in his childhood a dairy farm. One forth every other weekend between the brother stayed on to farm with their dad, farm and their Colorado Springs home.

Photos by Richard Siemers but the rest moved on to other careers.

While he was home on one of those comDale worked for large corporations, The quiet settings of the country have made Heritage Event Center a popular site for mutes … on a rainy April weekend, a couenabling him to move from place to place weddings and social gatherings of all kinds. ple drove in. They told him, “You don’t when his wife, Heidi, a Lt. Colonel in the know who we are but we’ve been looking U.S. Air Force, was transferred. His last years before sell, I’m ready to buy, because I want to retire here,” for a barn to get married in. It’s been a dream my retirement in 2014 were as a program manager with Fier said. whole life.”

IBM. That time came in 2003, and he started cleaning “I always told my Dad that when you’re ready to and fixing up. Fier built one new building on an old See EVENT CENTER, pg. 18

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

Pandemic allowed Fier to complete projects, ready for 2021 EVENT CENTER, from pg. 17 He told them the barn looked nice on the outside, but not so good on the inside. They decided if stuff was swept aside, it would work. He and a good friend spent the summer getting the barn in shape to host a November wedding.

“It turned out pretty spectacular,” Fier said. “The word got out that I was fixing up this barn. Then I had more people ask about it.”

He liked the idea of a new use for the barn, but there was serious work to be done. The November wedding had been chilly, and summers would be hot.

He sought a quote on heating and air conditioning the barn. It was over $10,000. As the contractor drove away, Fier went in the house and sat down. The phone rang. It was his boss. Since Fier’s last projects had gone so well and under budget, the company was giving him a bonus. It equaled the amount he had just been quoted. That seemed more than a coincidence.

“You have a feeling you’re on the right track,” said Fier. “That was a pretty strong indicator that there was something more for me to do than fix the place up and retire.”

The Fier Family Farm became a place for other families to have a memorable experience.

Activity at the Heritage Event Center has grown without any paid advertising. After he and his wife moved back to the farm in 2014, he has been able to devote all his time to the Center. It has hosted reunions, receptions, showers, fundraisers, and com-

Original buildings with new siding offset old items Fier has collected over the years.

munity events, but weddings predominate.

For indoor wedding ceremonies, the barn loft is the chapel.

String lights hang from the rafters, and down front is a lighted cross formed from the first barbed wire used on the farm.

Single seed corn planters function as flower receptacles hanging on the posts. The main floor has tables and benches for a reception, sitting on either side of the wooden frames from the milking stanchions.

The historic barn may be the central attraction, but folks find holding events on a farm appealing and activity is not confined to the barn. There is also an outdoor chapel among the trees. The metal cross at the front is from a family crypt in Denmark. The former “man cave” building serves as the dance floor or the center of other activity. Depending on the event, there is a bar and serving area on a concrete feedlot, and seating around outdoor fires. Groups arranging for a hayride have their choice among three tractors: Farmall, John Deere or a little Ford. “Dad was non-denominational with machinery,” Fier smiled.

Fier had thought he would restore their old machinery, but instead is creating an outdoor machinery museum to walk through. When people heard he collected old machinery, they donated theirs rather than sell it for scrap iron.

The pandemic interrupted activity in 2020. He went from 27 booked events to two. He and a couple full-time employees utilized the time to complete projects that would have been harder if fully booked. But 2021 is bouncing back big.

“I have weddings scheduled through Christmas,” he said.

Fier never trained to be an event coordinator, but he learned needed skills in his career.

“This is probably equally as challenging as when I worked full time; but there is nothing anyone can throw at me that I haven’t dealt with as a challenge in my career. I learned about

The barn that started it all came with a promise to never tear the historic stucture down.

working with people and problem solving.”

Both are very helpful when a crisis develops, especially in such a memorable event as a wedding.

Dale Fier doesn’t think this was just a good idea he had.

There is this sense that God has used unexpected incidents and turns of events to guide him in the direction he has gone. All the support from family and friends seems to confirm that he has chosen the right track. It isn’t all that profitable at this point, as he tries to keep it affordable for the community. He said his wife teases him that he has to quit paying people to get married in the barn.

Still, the Heritage Event Center seems to him a much better use of his time than just sitting around on his boyhood farm (not that he seems like a person who would ever be just sitting around). The old machinery, the rustic adornments, the original buildings fixed up and saved, it all puts heritage into this rural event center.

“I thank God that my mom and dad had the foresight to struggle to keep it in the family,” Fier said. And he has found a way to keep the heritage alive.

Heritage Event Center is located at 3621 County Highway 8, Taunton, Minn. More information can be found by searching for Heritage Event Center or Bottom photo: the outdoor chapel is adorned Dale Fier on Facebook. Dale can with a metal cross from a family crypt in Den- be reached by phone at (719) mark.

393-5168. v

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

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PAGE 19

MARKETING

Grain Outlook Bigger crop estimates hold down corn price

Financial Focus Care for aging parents a national concern

Thanks to healthier life2020-21 marketing year. It The following marketing gies to medication. looks like we’ll miss the styles and advances in modanalysis is for the week endIt is also important to know USDA target and could expect ern medicine, the worldwide ing Sept. 3. the location of medical and the export line to be lowered population over age 60 is CORN — December corn estate management paperon the Sept. 10 WASDE growing. The United Nations trended lower as we flipped work, including: the individureport. New crop sales were estimates that by 2050 the the calendar into September. al’s Medicare card, insurance very good at 45.7 million number of people aged 60 and It traded to its lowest level information; durable power of bushels to bring total com- older will have more than since mid-July with this attorney for healthcare; and a mitments to 804.8 million doubled (per The United week’s low at $5.16.75 per will, living will, trusts and MARISSA Department of PHYLLIS NYSTROM bushels vs. 621 million on the Nation bushel. other documents.

JOHNSON CHS Hedging Inc. books last year on this date Economic and Social Affairs, Profinium The destruction of It should be noted Power of St. Paul and the highest since 1990 for 2017). As our nation ages, Wealth Management Hurricane Ida has put Gulf attorney laws can vary from many Americans are turning this date.

Advisor logistics on hold. Sunken state to state.

An estate stratWeekly ethanol production their attention to caring for barges, towboats, and the loss of power egy which includes trusts may aging parents. puts into question when shipping will fell to a 26-week low of 905,000 barrels involve a complex web of tax rules and For many people, one of the most dif- regulations. Consider working with a return to anything near normal. per day, down 28,000 bpd. Ethanol Damage at this writing is still being stocks, for the fifth week in a row, were ficult conversations to have involves knowledgeable estate management assessed, which includes flooding, dam- down 113,000 barrels to 21.1 million talking with an aging parent about professional before implementing such aged equipment, and clearing naviga- barrels. Margins dropped 3 cents to 38 extended medical care. The shifting of strategies. tion routes. This happens just as begin cents per gallon. Gasoline demand was roles can be challenging, and emotions Be thorough harvest in parts of the country from the steady for the week. The four-week often prevent important information Remember that if you can collect all Delta to southern Illinois, southeast average gasoline demand was 2.6 per- from being exchanged and critical deci- the critical information, you may be sions from being made. cent below the pre-Covid 2019 level.

South Dakota, and central Iowa. able to save your family time and avoid When talking to a parent about future future emotional discussions. While The USDA is forecasting net farm Looking ahead into the Sept. 10 World Agriculture Supply and Demand income this year to be the highest since care, it’s best to have a strategy for checklists and scripts may help preEstimates report, early talk is the corn 2013 at $113 billion. The farm sector structuring the conversation. Here are pare you, remember that this conversayield will be larger than last month will expect growers to look for expenses some key concepts to consider. tion could signal a major change in with a corresponding production to pay in this fiscal year. China Cover the basics your parent’s life. The transition from Knowing ahead of time what infor- provider to dependent can be difficult increase and ending stocks. In an announced plans to offer more comunusual change, the National modity futures contracts which would mation you need to find out may help for any parent and has the potential to Agricultural Statistics Service report- be open to foreign traders, who cur- keep the conversation on track. Here is unearth old issues. Be prepared for ed they will be reviewing planted and rently can trade crude oil, iron ore, rub- a checklist that can be a good starting emotions and the unexpected. Be kind, harvested acreage data for corn, soy- ber and copper. New commodity offer- point: Primary physician; specialists; but do your best to get all the informaedications and supplements; and aller- tion you need. beans and sorghum; and adjust as See NYSTROM, pg. 20 needed on the Sept. 10 WASDE report.

Don’t procrastinate They usually do this for the October The earlier you can begin to commureport. nicate about important issues, the more Weekly exports showed China is canlikely you will be to have all the infor corn/change* soybeans/change* celing part of their old crop sales mation you need when a crisis arises.

St. Cloud $5.31 -.74 $12.37 -.65 instead of rolling them all into new How will you know when a parent crop. China canceled 5.2 million bushneeds your help? Look for indicators Madison $4.87 -1.16 $12.42 -.52 els this week, leaving them with 48 like fluctuations in weight, failure to Redwood Falls $5.21 -.83 $12.42 -.50 million bushels still unshipped — take medication, new health concerns, Fergus Falls $4.91 -.84 $12.37 -.55 which a portion will likely be rolled and diminished social interaction.

Morris $5.21 -.53 $12.57 -.44 forward. Old crop sales were a negative These can all be warning signs that Tracy $5.21 -.75 $12.32 -.54 at a marketing year low of 11.8 million additional care may soon become necbushels, dropping total commitments essary. Don’t avoid the topic of care just Average: $5.12 $12.41 to 2.757 billion bushels as of Aug. 26. because you are uncomfortable.

Year Ago Average: $3.03 $8.99 The U.S. Department of Agriculture Chances are that waiting will only target is 2.775 billion bushels. This was make you more so.

Grain prices are effective cash close on Sept. 7. the last full week of export sales for the *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.

See JOHNSON, pg. 20

Cash Grain Markets

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

PAGE 20

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

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

Soybeans move lower despite good Chinese demand NYSTROM, from pg. 19 ings would be settled in renminbi.

Outlook: I would expect any upside to be very limited ahead of the Sept. 10 WASDE report with expectations for a bigger crop and larger ending stocks.

Adding a new wrinkle this year to the September crop report of possible acreage adjustments may limit any upside and late rains are expected to bump up yield prospects. An acreage increase of 1 million acres or more is finding its way into private balance sheets. Any fresh negative news could push December corn to test its July low of $5.07 or its May low of $5.00.25 per bushel. Resistance would come in at technical resistance at $5.50 per bushel.

As mentioned in earlier articles, don’t forget to look at 2022. December 2022 corn has fallen along with 2021 contracts and closed at $5.01.5 for the week.

For the week, December 2021 corn dropped 29.75 cents to close at $5.24 and the March contract was 27 cents lower at $5.33.25 per bushel.

Are we headed below $5.00 per bushel in December corn? Seasonals are negative for September, the near-term export picture is unclear, and the upcoming crop report may be hard-pressed to be bullish, so it’s not out of the realm of possibilities. Manage your risk accordingly and as the old saying goes, “expect the best but prepare for the worst.”

SOYBEANS — In the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, we saw November soybeans slip out of the teens and reach $12.70 per bushel — which is its lowest point since last June. November soybeans closed lower five consecutive sessions before finding support ahead of the long Labor Day weekend. Soybeans have attracted good demand with fresh soybean export sales announcements on three of the five trading days before the long weekend.

Weekly export sales for the old crop were 2.5 million bushels, bringing total commitments to 2.286 billion bushels. The USDA outlook is 2.26 billion bushels. China has 26 million bushels of unshipped purchases left to take. The export category on the September WASDE report may be raised slightly, but the crush may be lowered slightly. New crop export sales were huge at 78.4 million bushels, which was even more than expected after a streak of new sales announcements during the reporting period. Total

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new crop commitments are 652.1 million bushels vs.

888.7 million bushels last year.

The July NASS Soybean Crush was 166.4 million bushels, slightly higher than the 165.2 million bushel estimate. However, based on what has already been reported this year, we are likely to miss the USDA’s crush outlook by 10-15 million bushels. Soyoil stocks were lower than expected at 2.07 billion pounds compared to 2.132 billion pounds estimated.

Safras and Mercado estimates Brazilian soybean farmers have sold 25 percent of the crop they will begin planting in a few weeks. This is right on the average, but compares to nearly 50 percent sold by this date last year. They are projecting the 2021-22 Brazilian soybean crop at 142.2 million metric tons vs. the USDA’s 144 mmt forecast. Brazilian farmers can officially begin soybean planting Sept. 15. Safras also estimates farmers have sold 86 percent of last year’s soybean crop vs. 98 percent last year; leaving them with bushels to sell to fill any holes before our new crop is available.

Outlook: Good Chinese demand has provided support to soybeans despite the weekly sell-off once again. Exports originally meant to go out of the Gulf are being diverted where possible and others will be delayed.

The soybean acreage on the September WASDE report is expected to be unchanged to slightly higher and subsequently increase production numbers. With a possible negative USDA report, November soybeans next level of support is the June low at $12.40.5 per bushel, then the $12.00 level, with first technical resistance at $13.50 per bushel. The lower tendency for soybeans to decline in September isn’t as strong as in corn, but it’s still there. Timely late rains added bushels in many areas, but in some spots it was too late to help.

China has shown its hand as being a willing buyer on breaks, which may limit the downside. How the dry weather in Brazil pans out over the next few months will be watched closely. The same advice for corn holds for soybeans as well.

November soybeans dropped 31.25 cents to close at $12.92 per bushel, January lost 26 cents at $13.01.25, and November 2022 soybeans were 7.75 cents lower at $12.59.5 per bushel.

Nystrom’s notes: Contract changes for the week as of the close on Sept. 3: (December contracts) Chicago wheat down 6.25 cents at $7.26.25, Kansas City down a penny at $7.23, and Minneapolis fell 5.25 cents to $9.12.5 per bushel. v

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

Open communication is key JOHNSON, from pg. 19 Remember, whatever your relationship with your parent has been, this new phase of life will present challenges for both parties. By treating your parent with love and respect — and taking the necessary steps toward open communication — you will be able to provide the help needed during this new phase of life.

Securities and insurance products are offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFG STC Insurance Agency LLC), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. Neither firm is affiliated with the financial institution where investment services are offered.

Advisory services are only offered by Investment Adviser Representatives.

Investments are: *Not FDIC/NCUSIF insured *May lose value *Not financial institution guaranteed *Not a deposit *Not insured by any federal government agency.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SECregistered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2021 FMG Suite.

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

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Taking Consignment Information For: Fall Consignment Auction

Bidding ends: Saturday, October 23rd 55780 St Hwy 19, Winthrop, MN

Advertising deadline is September 24th Auctioneer, Matt Mages: 507-276-7002 Marketing Manager, Tom Polich: 507-766-1874 Office: 507-647-3800 magesland.com

The Land, a weekly farm and rural life magazine has an IMMEDIATE OPENING for an

Outside Sales Representative

Candidates should have professional sales skills to service existing clients and develop new businesses in a designated territory.

Also essential are strong organizational and communication skills, along with attention to detail. Full-time position with base pay plus commission and complete benefits package. Candidate must have reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license to be considered.

Interested candidates should email their resumes, salary requirements and a cover letter to Deb Petterson, General Manager at: dpetterson@thelandonline.com

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irst Your F or f Choice ds! ie Classif

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3 /SEPTEMBER 10, 2021 Real Estate Wanted

Bins & Buildings

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

Farm Equipment

Farm Equipment

Tractors

WANTED: Land & farms. I Stormor Bins & EZ-Drys. FOR SALE: John Deere 3970 Tebben sub soiler, 9 shank; FOR SALE: 1993 John Deere have clients looking for 100% financing w/no liens or chopper with iron guards, 2 Haybuster 3106 Rock-EZE 8770, clean, good condition, dairy, & cash grain opera- red tape, call Steve at Fair- heads, $4,000. International rock picker, used one sea- 8013 hours, 24spd, 3 remotes, tions, as well as bare land fax Ag for an appointment. 4700 field cultivator, $4,500. son; Rock-O-matic rock 520/85R38 Firestone, $34,750.

715-410-5975 parcels from 40-1000 acres. 888-830-7757 picker, choice of 3; White Phone 320-395-2635 suitcase wgts, set of 11. All in Both for relocation & investFOR SALE: John Deere 40 good condition. 320-630-1777 NEW AND USED TRACTOR ments. If you have even manure spreader, show PARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, Farm Equipment thought about selling conready, $3,500/OBO. 320-63055, 50 Series & newer tracWe buy tact: Paul Krueger, Farm & tors, AC-all models, Large Salvage Equipment Land Specialist, Edina Re- FOR SALE: Sunflower 4412 5 9797 Inventory, We ship! Mark Parts Available alty, 138 Main St. W., New shank ripper; 60’x8” diam- FOR SALE: John Deere 520 Heitman Tractor Salvage Hammell Equip., Inc. Prague, MN 55372. eter 10HP Westfield auger; stalk shredder, 1 owner, new 715-673-4829 (507)867-4910 paulkrueger@edinarealty.com 10” 55’ PTO auger; Farm- knives, $11,500/OBO. Easton (612)328-4506 Fans CFAB190 dryer. 507- MN. 507-520-0264 381-0193 FOR SALE: 4620 John Deere Sales & FOR SALE: Alloway stalk tractor, good shape. 320-293Services chopper, 22’, $5,000/OBO. 9097 3710 JD 7 bottom plow, Betty Alleven $12,995. 320-905-5863 Living Estate Sale

Thank You Farmers!

Thurs, Sept 16 - 9a-7p Fri, Sept 17 - 9a - 7p Sat, Sept 18 - 9a - 12p 57774 111th St, Mapleton Antiques, furniture, kitchen and household, glassware, garden, vintage Christmas and other holiday decor, TV’s and so much more!

You’ll find some treasures!

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 FOR SALE: Alfalfa, mixed hay, grass hay, straw and individually wrapped baleage.

Medium or large square bales, round bales. Delivery available. Zumbrota, MN. Call or text Ray Leffingwell 763-286-2504

Bins & Buildings FOR SALE: Brock cone bin, 2500 bushel, 2 sight windows.

Can also get 8” unload auger, electric motor, off of bin. 507-259-8525

Prime Farmland Auction in Swift County Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 1 PM 160.06+/- Surveyed Acres, 152.42+/- Tillable Acres, CPI=91.4, located in Kildare Twp., Swift County.

Southwest Quarter, Sec 9, Twp 121, Range 38 Location: From DeGraff, N on 80th Ave SE (31) for 2.5 miles.

This land has been surveyed and has tile.

Kennelly Family, Owners Go to FladeboeLand.com for details & drone video

Glen Fladeboe, Broker 651-208-3262 Glen@FladeboeLand.com Dale Fladeboe, Lic 34-12 Award Winning Auctioneers

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

Upcoming Issues of THE LAND Southern MN/ Northern IA September 17, 2021 October 1, 2021 October 15, 2021 October 29, 2021

Northern MN September 24, 2021 October 8, 2021 October 22, 2021 November 5, 2021 November 19, 2021

Deadline is 8 days prior to publication.

SILO Indicates early deadline, 9 days prior to publication. * REMOVAL 507-236-9446 SILO DOORS Wood or steel doors shipped promptly to your farm stainless fasteners hardware available.

(800)222-5726 Landwood Sales LLC

418 South Second Street • Mankato, MN 56001 Phone: 507-345-4523 or 800-657-4665 Fax: 507-345-1027 Website: www.TheLandOnline.com e-mail: theland@TheLandOnline.com

Ask Your Auctioneer to Place Your Auction in The Land!

PAGE 23

PLANNING AN AUCTION?

Get the best results when you advertise in

THE LAND! Call

507-345-4523 800-657-4665

PAGE 24

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

Mark ZIEMER New London, MN (320) 979-4044 Auctioneer

Brian ZIEMER New London, MN (320) 979-4044 Auctioneer

Raymond, MN

Bid Live & Live Online Visit: www.ziemerauctions.com Online Items Begin at 11:00 A.M.

The following described property will be sold at 3695 142nd Ave. SW, Raymond, MN: From Roseland, MN, 3 1/2 miles north on Co. Rd. 5 to 142nd Ave. East on 142nd 1/2 mile. Or from Willmar, MN, south on Hwy. 71 6 miles, west on Co. Rd. 3 for 3 miles, south on Co. Rd. 5 for 1 1/2 miles, east on 142nd 1/2 mile to 3695.

Wednesday, September 22 • 10:00 A.M. Machinery

Tractors

JD 4640 Quad 3 Pt. Quick Hitch 3 Remotes 18.4x42 Tires & Duals Old Tack 10,687, Ser 010492, JD 3020 Diesel Canopy Front & Rear Weights 18.4x34 Tires Syncro Side Console Ser 130823 Good Paint & Tires, JD 3010 Diesel With JD 148 Loader 15.5x38 Tires Ser 27634, JD 730 Diesel WF 16.9x38 Tires Power Trol 3pt.

Ser 7310276 Tach Shows 3002 Hours, JD 60 Gas WF PS Fenders 14.9x38 Tires, Some Tractor Weights to Sell Separately

IH Trailer Type Sickle Mower w/Belt Drive, 7' Bar, J&M Gravity Wagon with Drill Fill Brush Auger 20" Truck Tires, J&M Gravity Wagon 22.5 Truck Tires, Unverferth 325 Gravity Wagon 22.5 Truck Tires, 12' Hayrack with Hyd Hoist, Wilrich 24' Field Cultivator 3 Bar Harrow, JD 7000 Planter Pull Type 8 Row 30" Large Hoppers Dickey John Monitor, JD 27 Stalk Chopper 14' New Hood, Melroe Rock Picker, Glencoe 8 Row 30" Cultivator Dakon Rolling Shields, 8 row 30" Cultivator Danish Tine Rolling Shields, 3pt.

Rock Digger, Schweiss 7'2 Stage Snowblower Hyd Spout, Trash Wheel Like New for 3 Bottom Plow, IH 720 Auto Reset Plow 5-18, JD Walking Plow, JD 44 2 Bottom Plow Coulters, 2-JD 555 3 Bottom Plows, JD 55ABH 3 Bottom Plow, JD 145 3 Bottom Plow Semi Mount New Paint, Landall Disk Chisel 9 Shank With Mulcher, Woods 5' Brush Cutter 3pt. Blade, 7' 3pt. Ag Chem Pull Type Sprayer 400 Gallon 54' Folding Boom, McCormick Single Row Cultivator

Grain Bins & Augers

Sioux Grain Bin 18' Diameter 6 Rings 34" 6" Discharge Auger, GS Grain Bin 30' Diameter 5 Rings 44" Air Floor 8" Discharge Auger, Dryer Grain Bin Farm Fans Dryer 30' Diameter 8 Ring 24" 6" Discharge Auger Spreader & Stirator, Air Stream Fan, Mayrath 8x30 Auger on Transport 220 Elec. Motor, Westfield 8x56 Auger PTO, Westfield 8x56 Auger PTO, Bin Sweeps 9' & 14'

For Full Listing go to: www.ziemerauctions.com

Dave Sportel Estate – Elaine Sportel, Owner AUCTIONEERS

Usual Auction Terms

Not responsible for accidents Lunch on grounds Number system used www.ziemerauctions.com or midwestauctions.com, click on Ziemer Follow Ziemer Auctioneers on Facebook!

Mark Ziemer, Lic. 34-46 New London, 320-354-4312 Cell: 320-979-4044 Brian Ziemer, New London 320-354-5308 Terry Hilbrands, 239-777-3120 Gary Hotovec, 612-202-5090

(Cash or Approved Check Day of Sale).

No Items Removed Until Settled For. Everything Sold As Is.

Hilbrands Auctions 239-777-3120

Mark ZIEMER New London, MN (320) 979-4044 Auctioneer

Brian ZIEMER New London, MN (320) 979-4044 Auctioneer

Clara City, MN

Clara City, MN

The following described property will be sold at 11075 10th St. NE Clara City, MN. 5 miles north of Clara City, MN on Chippewa Cty Rd. 2 then 3/4 miles east on 10th St. NE.

Tuesday, September 21 • 10:00 A.M. MACHINERY

TRACTORS

JD 4755 MFWD 3 Hyd Quick Hitch 18.442 Tires & Duals 6990 Hrs 300 Hrs on Major Ser.004260, JD 4440 Power Shift 18.4-38 Tires & Duals 2 Hyd & Power Beyond 9810 Hours New Clutch Ser 036401, JD 4430 Quad 2 Hyd 18.4-38 Tires & Duals Ser 054029 Bid Live and Live Online! Visit: www.ziemerauctions.com Online Items Begin at 10:30 AM

Clay Slurry Tank 3000 Gallon Hyd Pump & Injector Knives, Ag Chem Sprayer Pull Type PTO 40’ Boom, JD 2420 Swather 6 Cyl Gas 14’ Head & Crimper Ser 569036, Tebben Finish Mower 72” 3pt, Flow EZ Gravity Wagon Jumbo 10 Gear, EZ Trail Gravity Wagon, JD 3950 Silage Chopper 2 Row Narrow Corn Head & Hay Head, Gehl 970 Silage Wagon 72” Steel Sides Tandem Axle, MF Silage Wagon 72” Wood Sides on Gear, Gehl 910 Silage Wagon on Jumbo 10 Gear 72” Wood Sides, Gehl 920 Silage Wagon on Jumbo 10 Gear 72” Wood Sides, JD 7200 Planter MaxEmerge II Pull Type Monitor 8 Row 30, NH 60 Silage Blower, JD 71 Unit Planter 13 Row 18”, Alloway Stalk Chopper 20’ Swivel Wheels, 2 White 588 Plows 5-18 Auto Reset, 1000 Gallon Diesel fuel Tank Gasboy Elec Pump, NH 144 Hay Inverter, Melroe 421 Multiweeder 25’, JD 1010 Field Cultivator 28’ Pull Type, JD Field Cultivator 24’ 3pt, Kongskilde Field Cultivator 21’ With Rolling Baskets, MF 620 Disk 18’, JD Chisel Plow With Leveler 16’ Pull Type, Brillion Steel Packer 18’, Suspended Bale Elevator 76’, 2-Westfield Auger 8x60 PTO, 2 JD RM Cultivator 8 Row 30, Cultivator 12 Row 18, Kewanee Elevator 42’, Rolling Shields, Diamond Plate Tool Box, 2 - 1200 Gallon Poly Tanks

COMBINE & HEADS

JD 7720 Titan II 18.4-38 Tires & Duals Ser 625274, JD 644 Corn Head 6 Row 30, JD 920 Bean Head, JD Pickup Head 5 Belt, JD Head Mover

LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT

15 Calf-Tel Huts Water Brackets, 25 4x6 Cow Mats, 40 Steel Drinking Cups, Single Chain Silage Conveyor Galvanized, 16 Ft. Electric

For Full Listing go to: www.ziemerauctions.com

Wolf Brothers – 320-905-2579 AUCTIONEERS

Mark Ziemer, Lic. 34-46 New London, 320-354-4312 Cell: 320-979-4044 Brian Ziemer, New London 320-354-5308 Terry Hilbrands, 239-777-3120

Not responsible for accidents Lunch on grounds Number system used www.ziemerauctions.com or midwestauctions.com, click on Ziemer Follow Ziemer Auctioneers on Facebook!

Usual Auction Terms

(Cash or Approved Check Day of Sale).

No Items Removed Until Settled For. Everything Sold As Is.

Hilbrands Auctions 239-777-3120

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021 Tillage Equip

Harvesting Equip

Harvesting Equip

2010 Brent 782 grain cart, 18” FOR SALE: ‘02 Case IH auger, 30.5X32 tires, $21,900; 2388 combine, 2500 sep hrs, (2) Parker 4800 525 bu grav- Maurer grain tank extenity boxes, $3,750/ea; ‘05 CIH sion, extended unload auger 1020 30’ flex head, $6,500; for 30’ head, ‘06 Case IH 30’ CIH 1083 8x30 cornhead, 1020 flex head, both in good $2,900; IH 720 6x18 3pt on- cond, $35,000. Lilliston #6200 land auto re-set plow, $1,900; dry bean combine, w/ Sund 2012 JD 2700 disc ripper. 7 Westfield 10x61 swing hopper pickup, $4,500. 320-760-7920 shank at 24” center, could auger, $4,750. 320-769-2756 FOR SALE: ‘78 JD 4400 dsl be set on 30” centers. Discs combine, chopper, good are like new. Excellent mecond, 2968 hrs, re-built injecchanical condition, no welds. tion pump, $3,400. 443 CH, Paint is very good also.

(2) MN 250 gravity boxes $15,900. Call 507-789-6049 w/ exts, 1 on JD wagon, 1 on MN jumbo 10, both w/ truck FOR SALE: Alloway stalk tires, $1500/ea. 320-282-5838 chopper, 3 point, 8R30, excellent condition, always shedFOR SALE: JD 3800 chopper; ded, like new knives, $5,000. 2166 Case IH Combine, 100% 2RN JD chopping head; Farfield ready, always shed320-212-2775 ded, very clean, 2386 sep mall White cub w/ original FOR SALE: Landoll 14 3pt hrs, 3097 eng hrs, 1020 bean clipper mower. WANTED and land pull hitch, heavy head-20’ flexible cutter bar, TO BUY: 657 gravity box.

320-282duty, used very little, $2,000/ 2200 cornhead, 6R30”. Hyd Wet holding bin.

OBO. Dale Rogers 507-931- adjustable strippers. 507-317- 4845 1769 Cleveland MN 7212 or 507-381-8808 FOR SALE: John Deere 644

One Call Does It All! With one phone call, you can place your classified line ad in The Land, Farm News and Country Today.

Call The Land for more information 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665

Sell your farm equipment in The Land with a line ad.

507-345-4523 620F JD Flexhead original on Auger. dam, also fits 9500, condition, $19,500.

1234

still has 2” rock excellent 715-572-

cornhead, 6R36” with new calmer knife rolls, end stripper plates & new sprockets & gathering chains installed, works very well. Also 2 gravity boxes. 507-330-2808

Looking for something special?

Put a line ad in The Land and find it!

Call 507-345-4523

Land Auction

Tuesday, September 14th - 11:00 am Auction held at: Mages Land Co Office 55780 State Hwy 19, Winthrop, MN

Check out this amazing chance to own productive farm land in the heart of Sibley County.

Do not miss this opportunity!

Location of property within Sibley County: Bismark Township, Sections 17 & 18, Range 30 Total of farm: 151.70 total acres, approx. 145.44 acres tillable.

Productivity Index: 86.7

This property will sell as two parcels:

Parcel #1: 71.7 total acres, approx. 69.51 acres tillable.

Productivity Index: 86.8

Parcel #2: 80 total acres, approx. 75.93 acres tillable.

Productivity Index: 86.6

No Buyer’s Premium! For complete terms or viewing, contact Matt Mages ~ 507-276-7002 *Note: All acres are published based on Sibley County Online Records and FSA records.

Niebuhr Family Trust

Listing Auctioneer: Matt Mages, 507-276-7002, Lic 52-21-018

Auctioneers: Matt Mages, Lar r y Mages, J oe Wer sal, J oe Maidl, J ohn Goelz, & Ryan Fr oehlich Broker/ Clerk: Mages Land Co. & Auction Ser vice, LLC. Not r esponsible for accidents at auction or during inspection. Everything sold “AS IS”. Everything to be settled immediately after the auction. For all full terms and bidding go to magesland.com.

magesland.com

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3 /SEPTEMBER 10, 2021 Harvesting Equip

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

Steffes Auction Calendar 2021

Wanted

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

HFOR SALE: 1979 John Deere Wanted to Buy: JD 4430 1975 , 4400 combine, 329 diesel with or newer. JD 725 6, 8 & 12 - 2525 hours with John Deere row - front mount cultivar 915 bean head, $3,500. Phone tors; Stanhoist and Bushhog ’ #320-327-2711 steel barge boxes; Gehl and d Lorentz grinder/mixers; plus FOR SALE: Gleaner F3 com0 all types of farm machinery. d bine with bean head & 4R30” 507-251-2685 cornhead, good tires. Can be used or for parts. $2,000/ WANTED: 47 1/2’ - 52 1/2’ DMI l OBO. 507-227-2602 nutrient placer. 507-251-2685 d FOR SALE: Case IH combine , duals, 18.4x38, set of 4. Axle Livestock s extensions and drive shafts.

320-583-1550 n FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls kWANT TO BUY: Gleaner bean also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ head, 800, 8000/8200 series, Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred ; 20’ to 25’, or older in good Kemen 320-598-3790 - shape. 507-995-2513

l Swine Grain Handling D Equipment .

FOR SALE: Yorkshire, FOR SALE: Red Demco 750 Hampshire, Duroc, cross bu grain cart, 30.5-32 tires, bred boars, gilts & 4-H pigs.

4 hydraulic spout, purchased Top quality. Excellent herd w new fall of 2017, always shedhealth. No PRSS. Delivery - ded, only loaded 5 times, available. 320-760-0365 s $29,900/OBO. 507-276-8823 , FOR SALE: Retirement Sale!

Miscellaneous hog finishing Livestock equipment, stainless steel Equipment feeders and waterers. Albert FOR SALE: 24 ft freestand- Lea, MN 507-383-7858 ing panels w/ 3/4” rods, $260/ ea; HD round bale feeders, Spot, Duroc, Chester White, $650; 24 ft adjustable alley- Boars & Gilts available. way w/ gates on each end, Monthly PRRS and PEDV. $1,860. Watkins, MN 320-333- Delivery available. Steve Resler. 507-456-7746 6540

Wanted

Sheep

PAGE 25

Opening September 6 & Closing September 14 at 7PM Woitaszewski Farm Auction, Currie, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening September 7 & Closing September 14 at 7PM Vacek & Donnay Excess Inventory Auction, McLeod County, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening September 7 & Closing September 14 at 7PM Borgen Gun Auction, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening September 7 & Closing September 15 at 1PM Pacific Ag Hay Auction, New Warroad, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening September 8 & Closing September 15 at 1PM Locken Oilfield Service Complete Dispersal Auction, New Town, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening September 9 & Closing September 14 at 12PM Traverse County, MN Farmland - 230± Acres, Wheaton, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening September 9 & Closing September 16 Lynn & Lyle Bartholomay Farm Equipment Auction, Wheatland, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening September 9 & Closing September 16 at 1PM Dwight Fraedrich Inventory Liquidation Auction, Enderlin, ND, Timed Online Auction

FARMLAND AUCTION 80 Acres +/- of Bare Farmland in Prescott Twp., Faribault Co., MN

Opening September 10 & Closing September 14 at 12PM Online Hay Auction – Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening September 10 & Closing September 20 at 12PM Brad W. Erickson Farm Retirement Auction, Doran, MN, Timed Online Auction

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 @ 10 AM

Opening September 10 & Closing September 15 Ken & Sharon Hatlestad Farm Retirement Auction, Horace, ND, Timed Online Auction

PROPERTY LOCATION: 80 Deeded Acres located in the N ½ of the SE ¼ in Section 17 of Prescott Twp., Faribault County, MN T103N, R27W.

Opening September 10 & Closing September 17 Kerzman Family Trust Vehicles & Equipment Auction, Minot, Garrison, Roseglen, ND, Timed Online Auction

Auction to be held at the Riverside Town & Country Club 36259 150th St, Winnebago, MN.

All kinds of New & Used farm Dorset & Hampshire rams, equipment - disc chisels, field ewes & yearlings for sale. cults, planters, soil finishers, Lambs, large framed w/fast cornheads, feed mills, discs, growth that will put extra lbs balers, haybines, etc. 507- on your lambs. I can deliver.

Gene Sanford (507)645-4989 438-9782

Opening September 10 & Closing September 20 True North Equipment Auction, Grand Forks, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening September 13 & Closing September 20 Bob Eder Memorial Scholarship Benefit Auction, West Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction

Farmland Auction in Kandiyohi Co. Auction in November of 2021

Opening September 13 & Closing September 22 at 7PM Mark Minnick Snowmobile Auction, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction

79.62+/- Deeded Acres of Prime Kandiyohi Co. Farmland in Holland Twp., Kandiyohi Co. CPI=91.7

Opening September 16 & Closing September 20 at 12PM Norman County, MN Recreational Land Auction - 40± Acres, Syre, MN, Timed Online Auction

Legal Description: The South Half (S 1/2) of the Southwest Quarter (SW 1/4) of Section 1, Township 117, Range 36.

Opening September 17 & Closing September 22 Online Steffes Auction – 9/22, Upper Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction

Debra & Jim Hillenbrand, Owner

Watch FladeboeLand.com for more information and drone video to be coming soon.

Kristine Fladeboe Duininck 320-212-9379 Kristine@FladeboeLand.com Dale Fladeboe, Lic 34-12 Award Winning Auctioneers

For full flyer, informational booklet and bidding details, visit www.landservicesunlimited.com!

OWNER: WILLIAM M. MURPHY TRUST

AUCTIONEERS AND SALES STAFF

DUSTYN HARTUNG-507-236-7629 KEVIN KAHLER 507-920-8060 ALLEN, RYAN & CHRIS KAHLER, DOUG WEDEL, DAN PIKE & SCOTT CHRISTOPHER

Opening September 17 & Closing September 23 Chris & Jeremy Johnson Inventory Reduction Auction, Sharon, ND, Timed Online Auction Tuesday, September 21 at 10:30AM Bloomquist Farms Inc. Auction, Drayton, ND Opening September 21 & Closing September 28 at 12PM Watford City Area Land & Home Auction, Watford City, ND, Timed Online Auction

PAGE 26

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

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

MANDAKO 12’-60’ LONG ROLLERS

FOR THE BEST DEAL ORDER NOW!

GREENWALD FARM CENTER Greenwald, MN • 320-987-3177

Get

RESULTS Sell it

FAST! When you advertise in The Land!

Call us today!

507 345-4523 or

800 657-4665

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021 Trucks & Trailers

Sheep

FOR SALE: Suffolk, Suffolk FOR SALE: 2003 Sterling cross & Polypay rams, ewe tri-axle grain truck w/ tarp lambs. 507-445-3317 (leave and air scale, 24’ Scott box message) or 507-822-3398 & hoist, good rubber, good truck, always shedded. 952467-3823 Trucks &

Trailers

1977 GMC grain truck, 20’ box, roll tarp, twin screw, 427 gas, showing 37,000 miles, clean truck, $7,800. 320-894-3303

FOR SALE: Dorsey 40’ aluminum grain trailer, good tires, good brakes, hoppers good, new rolltop, $6,000. Pictures available. 612-741-7949

WANTED

DAMAGED GRAIN

14 miles So. of Sauk Centre

STATEWIDE

Raise your words not your voice.

It is rain that grows flowers not thunder. ~ Rumi

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.

USED TRACTORS NEW NH T4.75, T4.90, T4.120 w/loader... On Hand NEW NH Workmaster 60, 50, 35’s/loaders.. On Hand NEW NH 25S Workmasters……………..OnHand NEW NH T5.140…......................................Just In ’17 NH T4.75 w/loader…………..................SOLD ’13 NH T8.390 ......................................... $169,500 NEW Massey Tractors ............................ On Hand Ford 4000……………............................…..$4,500 ’90 Massey 3660 fwa………...............…..…SOLD TILLAGE ’11 Sunflower 4412-07................................$28,000 ’13 CIH 870 9-24 ......................................... SOLD ’13 Wilrich 513 5-30 .................................. $31,500 JD 2210 44.4 w/4bar…....…............………$39,500 DMI 527……………….........................….$14,900 Sunflower 4412-05 /like new….....................SOLD CIH 527B Like New…………............…..…SOLD CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NEW NH L318/L320/L328 wheeled units ........ On Hand NEW NH C327/C337/C345 track units ............. On Hand ’13 L225 EH 937hrs............................................... $33,500 JCB 520…………..................................................$22,500

HAY TOOLS New Disc Mowers - 107,108,109 New Disc Mower Cond. - 10’, 13’ New Wheel Rakes - 10,12,14 New NH Hay Tools - ON HAND

PLANTERS ’14 White 9824VE CFS loaded…..........…….$155,000 ’05 White 8222 w/liq/ins. …….................…….$29,900 ’05 White 8186 DF.............................................. SOLD Taking 2022 New Spring Orders COMBINES NEW Geringhoff chopping cornhead ....................Call ’10 Gleaner R66 ........................................… $129,500 ’03 Gleaner R65 .............................................. $72,000 ’95 Gleaner R52 w/cummins ........................... SOLD ’89 Gleaner R60 w/both heads ........................ $15,500 Geringhoff parts & heads available

MISCELLANEOUS NEW Salford RTS Units ........................................ Call NEW Unverferth Seed Tenders .............................. Call NEW Westfield Augers .......................................... Call NEW REM VRX Vacs. .......................................... Call NEW Hardi Sprayers ............................................. Call NEW Riteway Rollers ........................................... Call NEW Lorenz Snowblowers ................................... Call NEW Batco Conveyors ......................................... Call NEW Brent Wagons & Grain Carts ....................... Call NEW E-Z Trail Seed Wagons ................................ Call NEW Rock Buckets & Pallet Forks ...................... Call REM 2700, Rental ................................................. Call Pre-Owned Grain Cart .................................. On Hand New Horsch Jokers ...................................... ......... Call

Thank You For Your Business!

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

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THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3 /SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

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PAGE 27

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PAGE 28

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

THE LAND — SEPTEMBER 3/SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

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

A city park with a pagoda

N

oonan Park, in an attractive older residential neighborhood in Alexandria, Minn., is three parks in one. The center of the large park, which was donated to the city by the Noonan family in 1943, is dominated by a lake with a sizable population of Canadian geese, mallards and wood ducks. Admittedly, the water fowl do turn the park into a bit of a feed lot; but you’ll get over it because they are fun to watch.

We set out our table cloth and picnic on a table under a tree near the bright yellow and red Duck Inn. The building is an iconic land mark with a dark history (at least from a ducks point of view).

“I know way back in the ‘30s, the park department used to buy ducks and have the wings clipped so they couldn’t fly, and then they’d have them released at Noonan’s,” Bill Thoennes, Alexandria’s Public Works Coordinator, told the Alexandria Echo Press newspaper in 2016. “They used to corral them into here [the Duck Inn] and collect them, then have them butchered and given to people that needed them.”

Now days, the building is just a colorful curiosity.

Another colorful curiosity of the park is the Chinese pagoda birdhouse. A craftsman of Scandinavian heritage named

Alexandria, Minn.

Richard H. Bergstrom, from the nearby community of Miltona, built it in 1932.

The Noonans may have commissioned the intricate creation, because it was initially placed in their large formal garden. Later, the Fischer family maintained it and eventually donated it to the city.

The bird house was originally part of the Noonan’s “Little Bit of Heaven” formal garden.

The original garden was very large. What remains today, lovingly designed and cared for by the city’s gardeners, is merely large — but very colorful and soothing.

Bill Thoennes, the Public Works Coordinator, told the Echo Press the City of Alexandria budgeted $20,000 for flowers in city parks in 2016.

Not all of that went to Noonan’s park; but whatever was spent in 2021 was an excellent use of taxpayer dollars.

A path connects the garden with one that circles past the bird house, around the lake, and back to the picnic area and Duck Inn. Across the street is a basketball court and playground for those interested in activities more vigorous than strolling, picnicking and goose watching.

Oh, by the way, the swans are plastic, not real. They were placed in the lake with the hope of discouraging even more geese from taking up residence. v