THE LAND ~ December 31, 2021 ~ Northern Edition

“Since 1976, Where Farm and Family Meet” 2022 PFR INSIGHT MEETINGS

© 2021

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

December 24, 2021 December 31, 2021

The sun sets on 2021

AGRONOMIC INVESTMENTS TO DRIVE PROFITABILITY RSVP for a meeting near you at BecksHybrids.com/PFR-Insight-Meetings

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Entrepreneur spreads sunshine with corn Dick Hagen chats with Thom Petersen ... and more!

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

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

Wheee! 152 mph on his snowmobile!

418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56001 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XL ❖ No. 26 24 pages, 1 section plus supplements

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

Cover photo by Renae B. Vander Schaaf

COLUMNS Opinion From My Farmhouse Kitchen Cooking With Kristin Deep Roots Green & Growing Farm and Food File Calendar of Events Mielke Market Weekly Farm Programs Marketing Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads

2, 7 4 5 6 7 8 8 13 15 16 20-23 23 24

STAFF

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

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Yes, as a long-time ag writer, unlikely Behrens: “Nope, it’s just for fun. stories sometimes just happen. Like Maybe a trophy now and then. But as today … here at our quiet Olivia resiyou can imagine, cranking up these rigs dence on this absolutely wonderful day: after your own hands have executed all blue skies and 50-plus degree temps. But the needed tune-up skills is very satisfyon this day Ethan Behrens came to visit ing. And if your rig is the fastest, I can’t our home. Why? Because five years ago deny some bragging rights come along we had Northern Services, an Olivia utilwith that speed splurge too. But suffice ity firm, install a Daikin Room Air to say this hobby isn’t a money-making Conditioner system. Three units, in bedendeavor!”

LAND MINDS room, living area, and office arena, quietHagen: So despite the lack of snow,

By Dick Hagen ly provide comfort-air wherever needed you’re still loving your hobby? in our 42-year-old dwelling. However, Behrens: When the snow starts the remote ‘on/off’ switch was malfunccoming, I’ll be back in my glory so to tioning and thus the presence of speak. Right now it’s easy-time buying these used Ethan, Northern Services technician. machines but hard-time selling them. I’ve got about He’s a young, personable guy. As he was gather50 machines in the yard right now; but about 20 are ing his tools and getting ready to leave, I asked if mainly just for parts.” we could visit just a bit about his work, his training, Hagen: What’s the money on new sleds these days? his education, and his leisure-time activity. It turns out Ethan is a bit of a snowmobile nut (my term).

Behrens: “Much like everything else, it’s sort of Indeed, he’s a stalwart of this wonderful Minnesota crazy. Some of these rigs I’ve bought for $200 to sport, barely cranking up so far this winter for obvi- $300 are now going for upwards of $10,000. These ous reasons. are restored sleds in really nice shape. But I’ve also bought $400 to $500 sleds; did some fixing as needHagen: You tell me your hobby time is buying, ed and sold them for $4,000 to $5,000. A new snowrebuilding as needed, and then selling used snowmobile right now is $15,000 to $20,000 .” mobiles. So any activity this unusually warm, and snow free winter?

Hagen: So is the price and supply issue now seriously hurting snowmobile sales?

Behrens (with a smile): Yep, no snow on the ground but I’m loving it anyway. I don’t call this a Behrens: I’m not a licensed dealer, so don’t speak business … it’s just a hobby thing. I buy used with authority. But my answer would be yes and no. machines cheap, laying in farm sheds, abandoned in Right now the industry is bumping along; but buyfarm groves, wherever they show up. Tinker with er’s money is out there. I’ve personally only owned them a bit; then put them up for sale. one new snowmobile. My kick is getting used Hagen: What’s your age? And how long you been machines for a bargain, then fixing them up for some good sales. Seems like this is a scratch that a ‘snowmobile junkie’ (my words)? keeps right on itching … and I ain’t complaining Behrens: I’m 22. Would say I’ve been a junkie one bit either.” that long too.

Now this wrap up: My wife and I are totally Hagen: Yes, I too enjoyed snowmobiling when pleased with the quiet comfort of our Daikin sysyounger … quite a few years back. And like most, I tem. Yes, a bit expensive; but totally electric and also enjoyed ‘trading up’ to a newer model every compared to costs of heating oil, electricity is indeed three or four years. So what’s your favorite beast? penny cheap.

Behrens: That would be Polaris. Yamaha, SkiDo I asked Behrens how many units he’s installed in and ArticCat are good brands too. So why Polaris? the Olivia area. “Believe we’re 10 systems or more Because I just mostly grew up on them machines … now,” he said. “Also we have installed the Daikin so did my entire family. Parts are readily available; Heat Pump on about 30 furnaces. We tell folks they look cool; and they sound cool. switching over to our heat pumps reduces your Hagen: The inevitable question… I know these heating bill by about 70 percent! Yes, this makes rigs can crank up very fast. So just how dang fast your home very energy efficient in terms of conservhave you blasted on your machine? ing earth’s resources.”

Behrens: I have one sled set up for what I call So there you are. Ethan just stopped to correct an ‘radar runs’ and I hit 152 mph on one of these runs. on/off switch and you got treated to a Daikin We’re talking a long lake bed with no ice heaves.

Service Technician screaming 152 mph on his snowIt’s groomed and ready to go. I’m laying flat on the mobile. That’s just one of the treats of being snoopy sled. It’s running only two inches above the ice. when talking to a utility guy!

Spectators only see this ‘flying wedge’ hurtling over Behrens can be reached at yoethan@yahoo.com or the ice. So not much to see; but these super-fast rigs (320) 368-2940. sure do make some sounds. n Hagen: And big money in these radar runs?

See LAND MINDS, pg. 10

OPINION

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

27

TOP 5 FINISHES

* 6 - 1ST PLACE FINISHES * IN 2021 MINNESOTA & RED RIVER F.I.R.S.T. CORN GRAIN TRIALS

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

PAGE 3

BRAND

TRIAL NAME

RANK

YIELD TEST AVG ADVANTAGE

DS-3022AM™

Red River Central - Full (Summary)

1 of 32

214.3

194.1

20.2

DS-3022AM™

Red River Central - Full (East Grand Forks, MN)

1 of 32

229.5

203.9

25.6

DS-3727AM™

Minnesota West Central - Early (Summary)

1 of 48

234.4

218.5

15.9

DS-3727AM™

Minnesota West Central - Early (Brooten, MN)

1 of 48

286.6

244.5

42.1

DS-3550AM™

Minnesota East Central - All (Taylors Falls, MN)

1 of 43

223.4

188.0

35.4

DS-3550AM™

Minnesota South - Ultra Early (Nerstrand, MN)

1 of 35

258.9

236.1

22.8

DS-2828AM™

Red River South - Early (Wendell, MN)

2 of 37

236.6

213.9

22.7

DS-3727AM™

Minnesota West Central - Early (Clinton, MN)

2 of 48 244.6

221.4

23.2

DS-4018AM™

Minnesota West Central - Full (Lester Prairie, MN) 2 of 46 228.0

200.5

27.5

DS-3193AM™

Minnesota East Central - All (Milaca, MN)

2 of 43

180.7

161.7

19.0

DS-3959Q™

Minnesota Southwest - Early (Mankato, MN)

2 of 72

244.5

204.3

40.2

DS-3959Q™

Minnesota Southeast - Early (Cannon Falls, MN)

2 of 72

277.6

246.2

31.4

DS-3022AM™

Red River Central - Full (Buffalo, ND)

3 of 32

228.1

209.5

18.6

DS-3022AM™

Red River Central - Full (Warren, MN)

3 of 32

179.3

163.6

15.7

DS-3366AM™

Red River South - Full (Doran, MN)

3 of 40 248.0

229.2

18.8

DS-4000AMXT™ Minnesota West Central - Full (Lester Prairie, MN) 3 of 46

221.1

200.5

20.6

DS-4510Q™

Minnesota Southeast - Full (Kasson, MN)

3 of 58

290.7

259.2

31.5

DS-3022AM™

Red River Central - Full (Georgetown, MN)

4 of 32 220.3

198.9

21.4

DS-3162Q™

Minnesota East Central - All (Summary)

4 of 43

191.6

179.8

11.8

DS-3162Q™

Minnesota East Central - All (Taylors Falls, MN)

4 of 43

210.9

188.0

22.9

DS-3959Q™

Minnesota Southeast - Early (Summary)

4 of 72

244.2

229.4

14.8

DS-3727AM™

Minnesota Southeast - Early (Cannon Falls, MN)

4 of 72

275.4

246.2

29.2

DS-4310AM™

Minnesota Southeast - Full (Dexter, MN)

4 of 58

253.7

230.8

22.9

DS-2828AM™

Red River Central - Full (East Grand Forks, MN)

5 of 32 220.0

203.9

16.1

DS-3550AM™

Minnesota East Central - All (Summary)

5 of 43

191.2

179.8

11.4

DS-3550AM™

Minnesota East Central - All (Royalton, MN)

5 of 43 254.3

238.4

15.9

DS-3727AM™

Minnesota Southeast - Early (Nerstrand, MN)

5 of 72

232.8

28.8

261.6

See how our strongest lineup ever performs in your area at DairylandSeed.com or call one of our local reps: BENTON CO. Scott Heilig, DSM (320) 250-4545 CARVER CO. David Richter, DSM (320) 248-1794

CLAY CO. Agri Seed Solutions (701) 238-4650

MARSHALL CO. Northland Ag Nathan Wesolowski (218) 779-2711

OTTER TAIL CO. J & L Nutritional Consulting LTD (218) 346-7487

POLK CO. Northland Ag Nathan Wesolowski (218) 779-2711

RENVILLE CO. Dale Filzen (320) 894-7480

SIBLEY CO. Merlin Schwecke (507) 276-6900 TRAVERSE CO. Chad Birchem, DSM (320) 815-8980

WILKIN CO. Minn-Kota Ag Products Inc (218) 643-6130

Data based on 2021 F.I.R.S.T. (Farmers’ Independent Research of Seed Technologies) corn grain trials. No product recommendation by F.I.R.S.T. is implied.

TM ® Trademarks of Corteva Agriscience and its affiliated companies. © 2021 Corteva.

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

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

Orange City’s Christmas display’s grand finale is this year As is our custom after each meal, we Their acreage doesn’t lie directly on the read out of the Bible. On Dec. 10 our versbusy thoroughfare of Highway 60; but es to read were found in the book of Luke. the lights can be seen by anyone travelNormally around this time of year, the ling the highway. If a person is wise, they focus is on the second chapter of Luke. will take the time to turn north onto the C12 highway. All you need is to drive But we weren’t reading the Christmas towards the lights. story. Instead, the Apostle Luke was about finished with writing this book “I just love the lights at Christmas FROM MY that bears his name. Right there time,” said Val. “I never tire of seeing the FARMHOUSE towards the end of the last chapter he lights as we come over the hill towards KITCHEN records that Jesus said, “Peace be to you.” home. To me, it depicts the real reason for the season. Jesus is the light of the

By Renae B. There are several possible reasons why world. Sometimes I try to imagine the Vander Schaaf those words spoken by Jesus demanded brightness when my attention.

Jesus comes for Obviously the those who believe news is filled with on His name.” tragedies and calamites. There are The lights are rumors of military turned on for the conflicts. first time each season on Or it could also Veteran’s Day. be that that the Perry has a deep Christmas season passion for the has me thinking military. He has of the words that many friends who the angels sang at have served to His birth: “Glory protect freedom. to God in the He loves America. highest, and on He respects what the flag stands for.

Thus there are earth peace, good will towards men.” sections respectfully done honoring this country.

But rather I think it has more to do with the conTheir special Christmas display has an airplane versation I had enjoyed with Val Dykstra earlier or two. Yes, I even saw a helicopter. that morning. She and her husband Perry have a Christmas display on their acreage between Orange “My dad and uncle loved to fly,” explained Val. “My City and Le Mars that exemplifies peace, joy, love uncle made the plane. Once he was finished with and hope. flying, he gave it to us. I also have a brother in law who is a professional pilot.”

About 12 years ago, the Dykstras began setting up a small display. Since then it has grown Planes were a natural inclusion. immensely so that the lights can be seen for some distance — which is a good thing.

EARLY DEADLINES for THE LAND on Jan. 21 DISPLAY ADS - Ad copy due

Wednesday, January 12 CLASSIFIED LINE ADS - Ad copy due Thursday, January 13 at Noon THE LAND office will be closed Mon, January 17th, for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

No doubt you will be surprised when you see figurines doing gymnastics. Hmm? Gymnastics have played a huge part in their family. Val has coached this sport for over 30 years. Her Siouxland Superstar Tumblebus travels to 20 different preschools/daycare centers every week. Young children learn the basics of gymnastics while their parents are at work.

In 2018, teaching gymnastics expanded even further. She and her daughter, Alisha Dykstra, opened VIP Gymnastics, Ninja and Cheer in South Sioux City, Neb. It’s amazing that this 21,135 square foot building was at one time a place where Gateway manufactured computers. It is now a place of physical activity. What a change!

I don’t think anyone is going to say, ‘there is nothing to do here’ as the facility is well equipped with a long trampoline, rod floor, two vault runways, two in-ground trampolines, pit bar, channel bar, full set uneven bars, high and low balance beams, two full spring floors, ninja equipment, and its very own preschool gym.

But it’s more than a place to run off some excess energy for the 500 to 600 kids who come every The Dykstras have added at least one new item week. The gymnastics and cheer sports can be every year. Their ideas often were found in magacoached on the competitive level. zine devoted to patterns to be used for seasonal disYet, I must say, there is even more. plays. They would spend time looking through it. If “In the business name, the first three letters VIP a certain pattern jumped out, they would work reveal its true purpose,” said Val. “Our goal is to together to make the item. They both also enjoyed make everyone feel special, a very important person.” painting the new exhibit. This year Santa was presented with a boat while more was added to the milShe continues to spend time coaching as she pours itary display. out her love towards her students to help them feel I am positive that the cutouts of Santa Claus kiss- as though they were a super star. The roles are ing Mrs. Santa Claus will make you smile.

See FROM MY FARMHOUSE KITCHEN, pg. 6

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

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

PAGE 5

Start your party right with these fabulous appetizers It’s that time of year where gatherings happen in greater frequency. So, whether it’s for Christmas, New Year’s or just a plain old get-together, be prepared for whatever invitation comes your way with one of these delicious appetizers. When you arrive at a party with one of these dishes, you’ll be the night’s VIP in no time. These recipes are simple but tasty and bring the right pizazz to any gathering.

Every time I serve this appetizer, the crowd goes wild. It’s easy to make, but the results are an ooeygooey, unbelievably divine cheesy-carb creation.

n Crunchy, salty AND healthy? Zucchini chips are a fabulous addition to any gathering. Impress friends and family with this tasty snack.

Easy Baked Zucchini Chips

https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/242066/easybaked-zucchini-chips/ 1 zucchini, thinly sliced COOKING 1 tablespoon garlic-flavored olive oil WITH KRISTIN sea salt to taste

By Kristin Kveno Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place zucchini in a bowl, drizzle olive oil over zucchini and lightly toss to coat, season with salt. Spread zucchini onto a baking sheet. Bake in oven until lightly browned, about 20 minutes.

Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a49850/ n cheesy-garlic-pull-apart-bread-recipe/ A couple of years ago, I was at book club the first time I tried 1 large baguette bacon-wrapped dates. A friend set down a plate of them, and we 1 stick butter, melted were all instantly curious about what the heck it was? So, she 6 cloves garlic, minced told us to give it a try. I am not a date fan, but wanting to be 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley polite, I obliged. WOW! The blend of sweetness from the date, kosher salt creaminess of the goat cheese and the salty, crispy bacon was a freshly ground black pepper marvel in taste. The plate was empty in no time, and that was 1 cup shredded mozzarella the moment that made all of us in book club bacon-wrapped 1 cup shredded fontina dates believers!

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using a serrated knife, crossBacon-Wrapped Dates hatch baguette, making slices every inch in both directions and https://pinchofyum.com/bacon-wrapped-dates-with-goat-cheese making sure not to slice through the bottom of baguette. In a 8 slices of bacon small bowl, stir together melted butter, garlic and parsley — sea16 dates son with salt and pepper. Brush baguette with melted butter mix4 ounces goat cheese ture, making sure to get inside crosshatches. Stuff each crosstoothpicks hatch with mozzarella and fontina and wrap bread completely in Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Slice the dates lengthwise on foil. Bake until cheese is melted, and bread is warm and toasty one side to create an opening. Remove that pit. Using a spoon, for 20 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes, then serve.

MDA to seek dicamba restrictions ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture recently announced it will work with the makers of four dicamba herbicide products and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to implement state-specific use restrictions for Minnesota during the 2022 growing season.

The affected dicamba formulations are Engenia by BASF, FeXapan by Corteva, Tavium by Syngenta, and XtendiMax by Bayer. These are the only dicamba products labeled for use on dicamba-tolerant soybeans.

Because of a high number of alleged drift complaints in the 2021 growing season, the MDA plans to register the four products for use in Minnesota in 2022 with the following additional restrictions: No application shall be made south of Interstate 94 after June 12, 2022. North of Interstate 94, use is prohibited after June 30, 2022.

No application shall be made if the air temperature of the field at the time of application is over 85 F or if the National Weather Service’s forecasted high temperature for the nearest available location for the day exceeds 85 F.

The state-specific restrictions would require EPA approval and would appear on the federal label for each product. The MDA will also require product makers provide approved education and training of applicators.

From 2018 to 2020, the MDA had placed an annual June 20 cutoff date on registered dicamba products based on research and pesticide misuse complaints.

The EPA enacted a federal cutoff date of June 30 in 2021 and did not allow states to impose additional restrictions through a Special Local Need label.

Other federal requirements for the products that will appear on the 2022 labels include requiring an approved pH-buffering agent, also known as a volatility reducing agent, be tank mixed with dicamba products prior to all applications; and requiring a downwind buffer of 240 feet and 310 feet in areas where listed endangered species are located.

In addition to the cutoff date, Xtendimax and Tavium have crop growth stage cutoffs.

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

stuff a small amount of goat cheese into the cavity of each date.

Press sides together to close. Cut bacon slices in half. Wrap each date with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Arrange evenly on a baking sheet (with raised edges; otherwise, grease will get everywhere) and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the dates and use the toothpick to turn each one, so it’s lying on its side.

Bake another 5-8 minutes, until browned to your liking and flip the dates to the other side and repeat. Remove from oven, place on a paper towel-lined plate and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. n Brussels sprouts as an appetizer? This recipe features pop-inyour-mouth Brussels sprouts coated in Parmesan and bread crumbs; who knew this veggie could be so much fun to eat!?!

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a55370/ parmesan-crusted-brussels-sprouts-recipe/ 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved 1/2 cup flour 2 eggs, beaten 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan 2 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Caesar dressing, for dipping (optional) Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil. Add flour to a medium shallow bowl and eggs to a separate medium shallow bowl. In a third shallow bowl, whisk together panko bread crumbs, Parmesan, olive oil, salt, garlic powder and cayenne pepper. Working in batches, toss Brussels sprouts in the flour until fully coated, then dunk in eggs. Dredge in panko mixture, then place on baking sheet. Bake until golden and crispy, about 25 minutes. Serve immediately with Caesar dressing.

It doesn’t matter if your gathering includes many folks or just your family; these appetizers will bring cheer to any party. And seriously, give those baconwrapped dates a try!

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

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PAGE 6

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

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

There’s a word for 2021 … and it’s not bad!

I am trying to think of one word to sum catch and cook rainbow trout quest. up the last year in the Nesse household.

Easton went on his first Boundary At different times throughout 2021 Waters camping trip with his uncles and things have been sunny, delicious, stoic, Grandpa in June and he came back in oozing, brash, curious, piquant, thick, one piece! He raised three pigs this year eccentric, precarious and fun! I ruminatand had fun doing it! He already has ed over these words for a while and found plans to expand next year. Easton was that none of them encapsulate the entirefortunate enough to be able to help out a ty of the past year on their own. friend and fellow 4H-er and show a pig DEEP ROOTS at the county fair. He also showed goats On my quest to find the perfect word with his sister and mustered up a few By Whitney Nesse that could possibly sum up our year, I ribbons. stumbled upon supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. Defined by Mirriam-Webster as a “humorCora, makeup and fashion expert, artist, crafter ously big, nonsensical word,” or by columnist Helen and caretaker, is now in third grade. She is very Herman who was arguably the first to use it, “all much a people person and has been glad to be back words in the category of wonderful ... though rather in school after a combination of distance and hybrid long and tiring before one reaches its conclusion.” learning last year. Cora loves hiking and she too And that is exactly what 2021 has been: wonderful, had her first airplane ride to Arizona where she had long, tiring, humorous, nonsensical — supercalifraa ball playing with her cousins and hiking in the gilisticexpialidocious. mountains. As with Abby, It was very difficult for Cora to say goodbye to Beans. However, she has Abby is now in 6th grade and attending middle school. Included in her supercalifragilisticexpialido- welcomed Barb with open arms. Cora loves to help babysit both humans and animals any time the cious year was the birth of her triplet goat kids, raising them, and showing them at the local county chance presents itself. fair. She also had her first airplane ride to Arizona Jonny is usually found riding his bike or using his where she had the opportunity to visit some cousins hatchet to chop something down. Like Easton, and hike in the San Tan mountains. Abby sadly said Jonny loves the outdoors. He never turns down a goodbye to her furry friend Beans this year. chance to target shoot BB guns or Dad’s .22! Jonny However, she was able to help our family welcome a spent much time fishing this summer, there is nothnew, leggy, gentle giant of a furry friend, Barb, into ing quite like a livewell full of sunnies. Jon was our lives. also Easton’s business partner in the hog business.

He is also in on the plans for expansion! Jonny is in Easton is our fourth-grade resident hog farmer first grade this year and he sure loves school. and outdoor enthusiast. His days are filled with hunting, fishing and trapping anything that is in There is nothing that will make Jordy happier season, along with football, baseball and Fortnite. than fishing. Whether or not the bite is hot, the boy Among his favorite outdoor adventures this year will fish. Jordy was able to go trout fishing a few were cooking venison over an open fire and his times this year, one of those times being in south-

east Minnesota where he fished the Root River and camped near a spring fed trout pond. He didn’t catch more than a sunburn but was sure happy trying! Jordy is in his final year of preschool and is looking forward to kindergarten!

Karll enjoys his work as a crop consultant and raising some row crops as well. He spends most of his cold weather free time coyote hunting and warm weather free time making hay and fishing.

I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity that I have to work from home as a stay at home mother and cattle finisher. I am also thankful for the chance to write for The Land and do some milking for a neighboring farmer. Managing different learning models during distance learning for our kids was challenging; but it also gave us the freedom to go on more outdoor adventures in the last year than we ever have.

Included in our supercalifragilisticexpialidocious year were new experiences as well as familiar ones.

Possibly the most familiar experience is the great love, mercy, and grace of Jesus which he has shared with us again and again-an experience that never gets old.

I hope that during this year you have been able to become more familiar with myself and my family as I reflect on the past and share from the present. I would sincerely love the opportunity to become familiar with you and your family. Send me an email or drop me an old-fashioned note! Have a blessed Christmas season as we celebrate Immanuel, God with us, and may your new year be supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

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

This is the last year Dykstras will set up the display FROM MY FARMHOUSE KITCHEN, from pg. 4 changing just a wee bit now. It is these very kids who are bringing a great joy into her life.

Because you see, about the time the Dykstra Christmas lights presentation began growing, Val was diagnosed with a rare cancer, carcinoid. She has the aggressive form.

“When I get down,” said Val, “there is always a smile or cheerful greeting from one of these kids.

Nothing blesses my heart more than anything when I see these kids developing skills.”

Towards the end of the display there is a purple tree with little signs that signify this cancer journey.

“This cancer journey could rob me of my joy, if I were to focus on it,” Val said. “Instead, my biggest thing is to know Christ Jesus. I don’t want to waste my life. Others need to hear of Jesus. I want to make sure, that when I stand before God, He will

say to me “Well done, my faithful servant.”

“Everyone has a story,” she added. “People experience hard times in their lives. There are plenty of negative things that happen. But for us, who know Jesus, we have hope. We have the power available to let our light shine. We need to, as there are many hurting people out there. The journey can be hard.”

At the start of the drive through display, one sees peace, joy, love and hope exhibited. The lion and the lamb represent peace. The nativity scene featuring Joseph, Mary and the baby Jesus exemplifies joy, love and hope.

The Dykstras have a prayer for you: “We pray that people who drive through, will experience the love of Jesus. It is this hope and joy of knowing Him that goes with Christmas. He will give you peace; no matter what you are going through in life.”

This will be the last year Perry and Val Dykstra

will set up their display. So be sure to take the time to drive to their acreage for looksee. The physical address is 36924 C12 Le Mars, Iowa. Their address doesn’t pull up on google maps; so just head down Highway 60.

Keep your eyes open for the Highway C12 sign between Orange City and Le Mars. The best clue will be the bright lights from the display. They will guide you to the acreage on the north side of this curvy highway.

After January, the plan is for the children to take the displays they desire. Then the rest will be available to the public. If anyone would like to have some please contact Perry and Val Dykstra. Val can be reached at (712) 540-4985, Renae B. Vander Schaaf is an independent writer, author and speaker. Contact her at (605) 530-0017 or agripen@live.com. v

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

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

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Water, temperature important when indoor container gardening Gardening can continue in the winter need deeper pots. However, plants with some evaporation through the sides of the pots and by keeping plants indoors in containers shallow root systems are often grown in may require more frequent watering. Monitor the or pots. Plant containers are available deep pots because they are aesthetically moisture level of these plants more closely than made from clay, plastic, metal, ceramics pleasing if the height of the above ground those grown in metal or plastic containers. and other materials. Household items growth is equal or similar to the height Container-grown plants do best in soil that has such as the bottom half of a one-gallon of the container. been mixed with peat, sand, vermiculite, or perlite milk or juice bottle can be used as shortPlants grown in pots react more rapidly to keep it from compacting and slowing root growth. term plant containers. More substantial GREEN AND to environmental changes. Changes in Self-watering pots which use wicks to pull water containers may be created from large GROWING temperature affects the surface of outfrom a bottom reservoir into the soil will help keep detergent bottles or fiber jars after the the soil moisture at the right level.

By Linda G. Tenneson door soil and so the soil temperature tops have been removed and discarded. changes slowly. However, the soil in a An online search for “container gardening.edu” Gardeners who start seeds in early spring may container can heat up or cool faster because the use paper pots which last long enough for a seed to sides and bottom of the container quickly transmits will show detailed articles on this subject from several neighboring state extension websites — particgerminate and grow before being transplanted to a changes in the surrounding air temperature into ularly the article from the University of Illinois. larger pot or outdoors. Creative gardeners may also the container. Dark colored containers placed in have containers made from wood, old shoes, or other southern windows or under grow lights will also Linda G. Tenneson is a University of Minnesota unusual items. Take care when using unusual plant have this effect. Clay or terra-cotta containers allow master gardener and tree care advisor. v containers. It is important that they have not been manufactured with chemicals which may harm Send your letters to: Editor, The Land, 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001 plants. e-mail: editor@thelandonline.com All containers must be thoroughly clean and drainage holes or slits made in the lower sides or bottoms. Containers should be disinfected with a solution of nine parts water and one part household bleach to kill any potential plant pathogens.

To the Editor, home used equipment. They want new Mr. Handzus’ recent letter to the ediand our defense industries, which proRecycled containers are not as attractive to look at tor (The Land, Dec. 10/17) expressed vide jobs in all 50 states, want to build and are often placed inside other containers. The opinions that were basically the exact opposite of new and our Congress people want to fund them. outer container does not need a drainage hole and so serves as a drip tray to collect excess water. However, my hopes and wishes. I would have hoped that all Republicans want mandated forced birthings, but Americans would have worked together to end the be sure to empty drip trays or saucers before too of course no government help for mother or child. scourge of covid, but a large percent of Republicans Republicans hate to allow women to have the freemuch water accumulates in them and is reabsorbed into the soil. Too much water will rot plant roots and refuse to be vaccinated. 800,000 dead Americans dom to control their own bodies. apparently means little to them. keep needed oxygen from existing in the soil.

America has a history of freedom for heterosexual We should have left Afghanistan as soon as we Do not put gravel or pieces of broken pots in the white males only. Everyone else has had to fight for failed to find bin Laden, but I guess we learned bottom of containers. Water remains in the soil just their freedom. Difficult times loom. Trump’s Big Lie nothing from Vietnam. Even the Russians were not has pushed many Republican leaders into thinking above the gravel instead of draining out of the pot. so stupid as to stay in Afghanistan for 20 years. that democracy is no longer in their interest.

Containers are best selected to accommodate the When 241 US soldiers were killed in Lebanon Difficult times indeed. size of the plant and its root ball. Plants with shalPresident Reagan withdrew all our soldiers. low root systems can grow in shallow pots, while President Biden could also see the reality of our sit- Greg Rendahl plants that extend their roots deep into the soil Ostrander, Minn. uation. Our military does not really want to haul

Letter: We are in difficult times OPINION

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

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

Good-bye 2021’s high profits; hello 2022’s high costs It always seems odd to use the final Equally important, will today’s high week or two of the current year as a platwheat prices pull Northern Plains farmform to view the coming year. How does ers to forsake their ever-expanding corn looking in the rearview mirror give anyand soybeans empires for the good old one a clear sense of what’s ahead? days of wheat?

That certainly was the case for most ag Hold that thought until at least next markets a year ago. For example, almost year when the first peek at a possible no one last December saw its $4.50 corn answer arrives with the U.S. Department futures climbing to over $6 by the follow- FARM & FOOD FILE of Agriculture’s Prospective Plantings ing May or last year’s $11 Christmas soyReport March 31.

By Alan Guebert beans soaring to more than $15 by This year must not slip away, howevEaster. er, without remembering Sen. Robert OK, maybe a few did; but I’d bet a Dole, the stalwart Kansas Republican, boozy fruitcake even fewer believed it. who slipped away Dec. 5 at age 98.

Dole, a true war hero, was a Capitol Hill fixture This year’s wild and crazy ride has — almost by default — set the stage for a more normal 2022. Our from 1960 until 1996 when he resigned his safe, friends at farmdocDaily, the Land Grant Extension comfortable U.S. senate seat to try the most dangerous, least comfortable thing ever: a run for presiconsortium based at the University of the Illinois, certainly think so. Their updated 2022 crop budgets dent. are drearily, even worrisomely, more like something from the early 1980s than the 2020s.

The budgets, released Dec. 7, show that the coming crop year will be playing both ends against the middle. For example, per acre corn expenses — 18 Visit www.TheLandOnline.com to view our complete elements from “fertilizers” to “fuel and oil” — for calendar & enter your own events, or send an e-mail “High-Productivity,” central Illinois land will rise nearly 20 percent, from $631 to $755 per acre. with your event’s details to editor@thelandonline.com.

The same bruising cost hit will clobber soybean Jan. 4 — Ag Outlook Meeting — Willmar, Minn. growers, too. Per-acre input costs will, the research— Topics include weather patterns for 2022, outlook ers claim, climb an astonishing 26 percent in 2022, for U.S. agriculture, and what’s ahead for commodity from $377 to $476. prices and how farmers adapt to changing markets.

Contact Linder Farm Network at (507) 444-9224.

Meanwhile, season average prices for both crops next year, according to the farmdocDaily team, will Jan. 5 — Strategic Farming: Let’s Talk Crops — average $5 per bushel for corn and $12 per bushel Online — Crop fertility adjustments: Extension nutrifor soybeans. ent management specialist Dan Kaiser and Extension educator Brad Carlson will provide information based Those historically solid prices, combined with allon up-to-date research to help optimize crop manbut-certain record-bending central Illinois yields, agement strategies for 2022. Register at z.umn.edu/ means these farmers — despite the steep climb in strategic-farming. input costs and slow slide in commodity prices — stand to clear an estimated $61 an acre in corn and Jan. 5 — Ag Outlook Meeting — Marshall, Minn. $67 an acre in soybeans.

— Contact Linder Farm Network at (507) 444-9224.

Go north or south in the long state, however, and Jan. 6 — Ag Outlook Meeting — Mankato, Minn. the picture — like Illinois’ soils — changes dramati— Contact Linder Farm Network at (507) 444-9224. cally. In cooler, later-planting northern Illinois, those Jan. 12 — Strategic Farming: Let’s Talk Crops — per acre profits slip to $6 and $31 per acre, respecOnline — Think compaction: Aaron Daigh of North tively, for corn and soybeans. In the thinner soils of Dakota State University and Extension water quality steamier southern Illinois, profits all but disappear: educator Jodi DeJong-Hughes will provide informaa plus $7 for corn and plus $8 for soybeans. tion based on up-to-date research to help optimize By comparison, that makes 2021 a spectacular crop management strategies for 2022. Register at z. windfall. Highly-productive, central Illinois farmers, umn.edu/strategic-farming. again according to the number-gathering Extension Jan. 12 — I-29 Moo University Winter Workshop gang, pocketed an estimated $378 an acre for corn — Rock Rapids, Iowa — Topics include trends in and $305 for soybeans, five times more for each Mastitis Organisms and Strategies for Control; Stratethan what 2022 is estimated to hold. gies for Selective Dry Off Treatments; Milk Quality Wheat, however, will have its 2021 in 2022. from a Processor’s Perspective; Milker Training ProKansas City hard red winter wheat futures prices gram; Troubleshooting Mastitis in your Herd for hover near $8, down from last month, but still the Cleaner Milk; plus a producer panel discussion. Conhighest December price in years. tact Fred Hall at fredhall@iastate.edu or (712) 7374230.

OPINION

He lost, and the nation lost something along with him. Thereafter, politics were different; they became bloodier, more corrosive, and more destructive.

After his death, some pinned part of the blame on Dole, a lion-tough leader who had a ferocious roar and slashing bite. But, as he proved time and again, neither flaw matched his caring heart and ironclad integrity. His career was built on easing hunger, reducing poverty, healing disabilities, and delivering hope to millions in the United States and abroad.

Let us end this dreadful year of bitter politics by remembering one of our best, Bob Dole, a wounded giant who always knelt to pick up the broken, hungry and poor.

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

Calendar of Events Jan. 17 — Small Grain Workshop — Morris, Minn. — Workshop will focus on production agronomics, variety selection and economics. Also includes an open forum discussion on related topics and on-farm experiences. Contact Jared Goplen at (507) 8290614.

Jan. 19 — Strategic Farming: Let’s Talk Crops — Online — Management of corn for grain and silage: Corn agronomist Joe Lauer and ruminant nutritionist Luiz Ferraretto of University of Wisconsin - Madison will provide information based on up-to-date research to help optimize crop management strategies for 2022. Register at z.umn.edu/strategic-farming.

Jan. 20 & 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24 — Annie’s Project - Education for Farm Women — Clearwater, Minn. — Registrants should plan to attend all six sessions. Topics include financial reporting, human resources, legal issues, market risk and production metrics. Contact Katie Drewitz at (320) 255-6169.

Jan. 21 & 22 — Practical Farmers of Iowa 2022 Conference — Ames, Iowa — More than 60 farmerled sessions. Topics include conventional and organic field crops; small grains; horticulture; livestock and on-farm habitat. Contact Tamsyn Jones at tamsyn@ practicalfarmers.org or (515) 232-5661.

Jan. 21 & 22 —Farm Couple Retreat — Faribault, Minn. — Learn about creative communication skills, personality differences, and resources to help each couple reach their goals and attain better management of the stresses of farming and family relationships. Learn how to communicate with your partner and children more effectively and enjoy a mini-vacation as a couple from the farm. Contact Leah M Bischof at leahbischof@gmail.com or (320) 4290611.

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

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Sukalski determined to spread ‘Sunshine’ with snack business

By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer FAIRMONT, Minn. — Suzanne “Suzy” Sukalski is a chief executive officer, inspirational speaker, breakfast hostess at the Hampton Inn, a daughter, a sister, an aunt and so much more. At 29 years old, Sukalski has accumulated an impressive list of accomplishments. Sukalski has Down syndrome, but she is quick to point out that it doesn’t define her.

She believes that we all have different abilities.

Sukalski lives at the family farm near Fairmont, Minn. with her parents, Diane and Larry. She’s proud of her farming heritage and is happy to lend a hand during those busy times in the fields. “She helps with babysitting and getting meals together,” Diane said.

Happy hostess Sukalski first became interested in the hospitality profession while taking an education career exploration class in high school. After graduation, the Hampton Inn breakfast host position became available. In meeting with Sukalski, Jason Subbert, general manager of Torgerson Properties Inc. (which includes the Hampton Inn) thought this could be a great fit for her and he was right. Nine years later, Photos submitted Sukalski exuberates pride and satisfaction in her Suzanne Sukalski began packaging “Sunshine Suzy Super role as breakfast hostess. “I love that job a lot.”

Crunchy Corn Nibblets” in 2015 and now distributes the snacks in 24 states.

She began the position with a job coach and was quickly able to master the skills needed to perform the hostess duties. She refills breakfast supplies, cooks waffles, eggs and sausage, makes coffee all with a friendly smile.

In addition to all that she does in her job, Sukalski has created cards which she gives out to the Hampton Inn guests. “That’s my idea. I love crafts a lot.” She makes cards for every season and occasion. The cards contain a simple message, bringing a little joy to the guests. “It gave her a way to connect with the guests,” Diane said.

Suzy also does her job while wearing one of her 30 signature aprons. “Aprons for every season,” Diane said. Suzy designs them all. “I make my own.”

Her friendly demeanor and can-do attitude have been an asset to the Hampton Inn. She and the rest of the Fairmont Hampton Inn employees received a number one rating for service out of the more than 1,200 Hilton brand hotels worldwide.

A sunny idea The idea to get into the corn nibblets business came about after sampling some at a tradeshow. It was something Sukalski and her parents enjoyed. When inquiring on how to purchase the corn nibblets, they discovered the corn snacks were only sold in bulk. At See SUNSHINE SUZY, pg. 10

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THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

Parents,siblings, relatives taste-tested various flavors SUNSHINE SUZY, from pg. 9 that moment, a light bulb went off. Why not package and sell these tasty treats? That’s how Sunshine Suzy Super Crunchy Corn Nibblets was born in 2015.

The Hampton Inn was looking for a local snack they could give to their Honors Members. “What’s more local than Suzy — who lives here and works here,” Diane said. Thus began the opportunity to get the corn nibblets in the hands of customers all over the country.

One of the first large-scale sales of the snack was to the North Dakota Corn Utilization Council which ordered more than 20,000 bags of corn nibblets. They use the nibblets as a marketing tool to promote U.S. corn.

The corn nibblets are bagged and labeled in a certified commercial kitchen at the Sukalski farm. “Kettle corn is my favorite one,” Sukalski said.

Sukalski weighs a batch of snacks at the Fairmont, Minn. facility. The company donates snacks to first responders in the area and is working on shipping some to U.S. troops overseas.

Last spring a meeting was called. Sukalski, her parents and siblings, nephews and niece, sat around the board room table and taste-tested various flavors and decided on sea salt, spicy buffalo ranch, kettle corn, barbecue and ranch. The corn nibblets come in 1-ounce, 2-ounce and 5-ounce bags. The snack has been purchased for wedding favors, graduations parties, business giveaways, or just for the corn snack fan.

The corn nibblets differ from many of the corn nuts also found in stores. “Nice on your teeth, it’s a waxier corn,” Diane said. The corn is grown in Indiana and Illinois. The hope is someday Sukalski can get the product grown locally — whether on the family farm or by another local producer.

When Covid-19 hit, the Sunshine Suzy business had to pivot from doing mostly custom labeled mass packaging to focusing efforts on online sales. Sukalski can do all aspects of the packaging and labeling, and mailing of the snacks; though with so many orders, family pitches in to help as well.

Within the first 53 days of the new website with the convenient online ordering capabilities, 500 boxes of corn nibblets were shipped to 24 states. Online ordering continues to grow as word spreads about Sukalski’s mission to spread sunshine everywhere.

The products can also be purchased at True Value, Fareway and Sterling Drug — all located in Fairmont, as well as Ghost Town Tavern in Imogene, Minn.

Giving back Sukalski recently sent boxes of Sunshine to some families of Down syndrome babies. It was her way to Diane Sukalski show the families there’s a world out there for people of all abilities, Sukalski is proof of that. She has also donated corn nibblets to troops overseas. She and Diane are working on packaging 1,500 bags to send to Kuwait for National Guard troops. Sukalski has dropped off corn nibblets at fire stations, police and sheriff stations. Diane explained that it’s important Sukalski donates to first responders and other members of the community as her way of giving back for all the help she’s received. “She’s been helped by people — from teachers to paras at school to people at work,” Diane said.

Inspiring speeches The first speech Sukalski gave was with her Hampton Inn manager. She spoke about her role at the hotel. She can now give solo presentations up to 45 minutes in length. She’s given speeches at schools, businesses and to international delegations. Her story about resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity rings true to many.

Diane’s pride and love for her daughter are evident.

“People with disabilities belong in the world. They’re an asset,” she said. The Sunshine Suzy mission is to “Nourish the soul. Celebrate abilities. Inspire possibilities.” What started as sampling a tasty corn snack over six years ago has developed into the opportunity for Sukalski to share kindness and smiles with people everywhere.

If you are interested in ordering some sunshine or want to learn more about Sukalski and her mission, visit www.sunshine-suzy.com. v

Smaller farmer pool concerns Glessing and Farm Bureau LAND MINDS, from pg. 2 I happened to have the radio on when KNUJ Farm Director Jim Bartels was interviewing new Farm Bureau President Dan Glessing. Glessing said he was “Quite honored” to be selected to succeed longtime Farm Bureau head Kevin Paap. “When I became a member of the Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher Committee, I got some bigger ambitions,” Glessing said. “But now I really can’t believe I’m here. I credit my experiences on the YF&R Committee for fueling my passion for higher ambitions within this remarkable farm organization.”

Glessing’s home town is Waverly, Minn. in Wright County. He and wife Seena have four children ages 15 to 7.

Glessing said Farm Bureau has been a fixture in his family for three generations. “My grandparents were members; so were my parents and when I became a young farmer, I started realizing the importance of joining a group that represented all of us farmers — regardless the age. And I quickly learned it just made sense to have an organization that represents us in St. Paul at the state capitol; or in Washington D.C. on national and international agricultural issues; or even in our local community on food issues, local school board concerns, even county roads and ditches … these are reasons why Farm Bureau became important in my life.”

“I recall when signing new members they would often comment ‘gosh, if I’d known what all Farm

Bureau was doing I’d have joined long ago.’ So that’s my call to action … telling our Farm Bureau story. We’re not just production agriculture; we’re about community improvement; we’re about better education; and we’re always about a stronger and brighter future for America.”

Glessing added he felt his biggest challenge as new president is the ongoing trend of bigger and fewer farms in rural Minnesota … and every other farm state. “That membership pool keeps getting smaller. Yes, we keep adapting to change, but maintaining membership is my number-one concern.” n See LAND MINDS, pg. 11

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He didn’t get elected, but a great interview anyway!

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus On Nov. 19 at Farm Bureau’s State Convention I had the pleasure of meeting Shayne Isane, FB State Director from District VII (deep in the northwest corner of Minnesota). Badger is his home town (Roseau County).

Isane was a candidate for state president and thus my reason for our visit. The 94 voting delegates elected Wright County dairy farmer Dan Glessing as president. However my conversation with Shayne that morning provided some interesting commentary.

I asked Isane in view of all the road bumps, what are his thoughts about the future of U.S. agriculture?

“Being a farmer, you need to be optimistic,” he replied. “We wouldn’t be in this business if we weren’t positive about the future. I’m a second generation farmer. My grandfather immigrated from Norway when he was 15. I’m now 54 and farming has been good for me. You quickly learn the value of friendship; the importance of building confidence; and the need of vigor, sharing and team work. Yes, my involvement in FFA definitely helped springboard me into leadership ambitions. The role of this new generation will be critical to the future of agriculture.”

“My son Devyn is 34,” Isane continued. “He’s an electrical lineman. My daughter, Danielle, 32, works as a cosmotologist in California. I farm together with my brother and a nephew just graduated from North Dakota State University and now joined into our Isane Farms Inc. farming operation. We are beef

(cows and calves), corn, soybeans, spring wheat, alfalfa and this crop called perrenial rye grass which we grow for grass seed for lawns, golf courses and such. We don’t raise hogs … only beef cows from which we feed out their offspring each season.

“Our farm today consists of almost 6,000 acres including pasture acres. We’ve got mostly Black Angus cattle, a very popular breed right now. But also have some Red Angus and some Charolais. We run about 300 cows.”

“You have to be positive,” stressed Isane. “Our job is growing food for America, so it’s our duty and opportunity to help feed America. That’s the beauty of farming … we can customize our work to accommodate what people need.”

“Yes, I understand today’s housewives want to know more about the origins of the foods they buy; but that hasn’t changed our focus. Keeping them aware their food comes from farmers is important to us. Let’s be honest … their nutritional well-being is also our well-being. We need to cultivate that relationship.”

“I say without a doubt the generation of farmers we have on the ground today are the best generation ever produced. And if, or when my son and daughter they too will be part of the best generation.”

Isane admits it was dang dry in his part of Minnesota this 2021 season. “Our crops suffered. We had very low yields; our pastures dried; but we’ve survived these weather crunches and we’re now looking forward to a great 2022 season. We’ll be much the same on crop acres, but might expand spring wheat acres. Wheat prices have been good and look okay

into this new season also. And I’m optimistic about the future of Minnesota Farm Bureau too. Sure, some challenges — especially on input costs for the next season. Agriculture gets attacked from different directions. But it’s Farm Bureau’s unity that keeps us strong. And that’s why I think Farm Bureau is vital to the future of agriculture in Minnesota.”

“Yes, I could throw some stones on this current American administration,” Isane continued. “Farm Bureau simply hasn’t had White House access with this president. When Trump was president he did pay attention to agriculture — perhaps surprising for a New York City real estate magnet. But he sensed the critical importance of farmers feeding America and other countries.”

“I admit, we farmers tend to be somewhat independent. Yes, we appreciate the importance of federal crop insurance. But we want to contribute too. It’s always a delicate balance. So as we advocate for agriculture we also need recognize consumer interest too.

But too much regulation stifles our ambitions … and usually becomes costly to all taxpayers.”

I asked Isane if he thinks America’s farmers are favored in the political mainstream.

“That’s why the story of American agriculture needs to be told across our nation,” he replied. “Yes, Farm Bureau diligently works to build relationships at both the state capitol and in D.C. However, farmers should be tuned to the population centers also.

That’s where the votes are. We’re vastly outnumbered, so building connections with the metro populations is vital too.

“Many positive things keep happening in agriculture,” stressed Isane. “It’s a good story for everyone — including the younger generations and women too.

Farm Bureau is highly regarded. We know people respect our organization and they look to us for leadDon’t forget a person’s greatest emotional need is ership. Regardless of political party, we strive for to feel appreciated. good relationship with both parties. Our Farm Bureau theory … we support those who support agriKeep your promises. culture. We may not always agree. It’s a slippery Learn to show cheerfulness, even when you don’t slope out there. Staying tuned to issues mattering feel like it. most to farmers is just common sense to me.”

Remember that overnight success usually takes So there you are. Isane admits being a bit bummed about 15 years. about the election; but concedes, “I had good competiLeave everything better than you found it. tion and Dan will do a good job. We’re a strong orgav Remember that winners do what losers don’t want nization. That’s what really counts.” to do.

When you arrive at your job each morning, let the first thing you say brighten everyone’s day.

Don’t rain on other peoples parades.

Never waste an opportunity to tell someone that you love them.

In closing, May 2022 be as enjoyable to each of Instagram@thelandmagazineonline you as 2021turned out to be. Cheers and God’s blessings.

Dick Hagen is the staff writer emeritus of The Land.

He may be reached at rdhagen35@gmail.com. v

2022 looks to be encouraging LAND MINDS, from pg. 10 Yes, 2021 is soon history. And what an incredible year! For us ‘Aggies’, financially it’s been surprisingly strong! Despite outrageous fertilizer prices, etc., 2022 looks encouraging too. Here’s 20 comments that I think will add to your lives also: Compliment three people everyday.

Watch the sunrise, at least occasionally.

Be first to say ‘hello’.

Live beneath your means.

Treat everyone like you want to be treated.

Never give up on anybody. Miracles happen.

Forget the Jonesses.

Never deprive anyone of hope. It may be all he has.

Pray not for things, but for wisdom and courage.

Be tough-minded but tenderhearted.

Be kinder than necessary.

Join The Land Online!

Facebook.com/TheLandOnline Twitter.com/TheLandOnline

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THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

It’s not about educating; it’s about organizing

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus OLIVIA, Minn. — Attending a National Farmers Organization meeting — either local, state or national — certainly provides great conversations. At the Minnesota NFO state convention on Dec. 4, I Bruce Schultz ‘relearned’ collective bargaining still gets a big play.

NFO National Vice President Bruce Schultz was the guest speaker at the event. He’s a Raynesford, Mont. cattle man. “My wife and I run the family farm which has been in the family since the 1930s. We’re a cow-calf operation … Angus and Angus cross-breds with some Chelvy bulls that we put in with them. We usually run about 110 cows now. We just liquidated about a third of our herd. We got rid of 31 cows, down to about 80 right now. Drought really shrunk our pastures this season and there likely won’t be a lot of grass when we move them back out next spring.”

Schultz said the decision to sell cows was necessary “Because the price of hay is through the roof! Usually, when there’s a drought in Montana, the whole state isn’t hit. But not so this year … and then Wyoming also got dried out, and Washington, and southern Canada and the eastern Dakotas. So hay just wasn’t available anywhere. So people who did have hay started cashing in. Like a neighbor was selling hay for $385 a ton. Until this drought I would usually put up some hay for selling too … about $100 a ton.’’

“So we went through our cow herd. Any that were open went. Any 10 years old or older also went down the road. And some late breeders also went down the road. Then through the National Farmers Organization we put carloads of cows together for direct shipping to packing plants in Idaho. Compared with guys selling off their cows in the ring, we got about $200 more per cow … just by cutting out the middle man.

“Then, younger cows that were open (unbred) we stuck into a feed lot about 50 miles away from that packing plant, Schultz continued. “Somebody there is taking care of the custom feeding and trucking to the packing plant when finished. They’ll finish out at about 1,200 pounds; but that extra finish will likely bump them up a class and that’s another 10 to 15 cents more per pound. So working our way through these drought issues has been a challenge; but thanks to common sense collective bargaining, we’re not going broke.”

Schultz said he sat in on webinar by the Montana Department of Natural Resources just this past week. “And this hydrologist, water expert, using graphs and drought monitors, told us we’re in for a long- sustained drought. It’s been going on for a couple years already, so my wife and I may be getting rid of more cows. November, I believe, was the warmest on record in Montana — basically just warm, windy and dry. And that doesn’t bode well for anybody.”

I asked Schultz if he has a working relationship with the White House these days? “We’ve sent letters to the White House and the USDA,” Schutz replied.

“Gene Paul, our National Farmers Legislative Coordinator (also at this Olivia meeting) is our key contact man in Washington. If it pertains to dairy issues, we’re working with Senator Gillibrand of New York. We’re trying to get politicians to understand it’s a structure management issue that’s hurting us.

We’re talking family farms; not the 10,000-cow milk factory farms beholden to their Investors.

“So we’re advocating a price break just for the first million pounds of milk by any producer … $4.00 more per hundredweight for that first million pounds. This would require one Federal Milk Order for the entire country rather than 15 to 20 different marketing orders currently prevailing across the country.”

Schultz is optimistic the proposal is actually getting momentum. “We’re working with National Farmers Union and American Farm Bureau. When you get those two to agree on anything you must have a good idea. People are starting to understand our food system needs some fixing. I think the pandemic proved that: packing plant shutdowns; milk dumping episodes; school closings because their food supply channels became unreliable.”

Schultz added he was encouraged by the public demanding to know where and how their foods are

being produced. “I do think knowing where your food comes from is important,” he stressed. “And housewives buying their pork, their beef, even their poultry need assurance American farmers produced this food. If imported products I think they should know that also. That’s why I think Country of Origin labeling is a big step. When consumers want to know about an animal’s farm existence, but don’t care where that animal was raised, seems a little odd to me! Yes, we’ve learned people will pay a premium for background information on some of their food purchases. If these foods make them feel better, so be it; but more important to we farmers is consumers wanting to know about us. Knowing their foods are coming from American farmers with families engaged in school activities and community life much like them would be a positive feeling. Learning ‘big money’ interests in San Diego, Chicago and elsewhere are kingpins of the food industry doesn’t satisfy their curiosities about American food. “ “When people understand we farmers live and work together to supply this incredible American food system, then I also believe they appreciate that farmers do care for their animals and the crops they grow. And I’m convinced a growing number of farmers are willing to go that extra mile to let their story be known!” v

Signup for Dairy Margin Coverage is open The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently opened signup for the Dairy Margin Coverage program and expanded the program to allow dairy producers to better protect their operations by enrolling supplemental production. The signup period runs to Feb. 18, 2022.

Supplemental DMC will provide $580 million to better help small- and mid-sized dairy operations that have increased production over the years but were not able to enroll the additional production.

Now, they will be able to retroactively receive payments for that supplemental production. Additionally, USDA’s Farm Service Agency has updated how feed costs are calculated, which will make the program more reflective of actual dairy producer expenses.

Eligible dairy operations with less than 5 million pounds of established production history may enroll supplemental pounds based upon a formula using 2019 actual milk marketings, which will result in additional payments. Producers will be required to provide FSA with their 2019 Milk Marketing Statement.

Supplemental DMC coverage is applicable to calendar years 2021, 2022 and 2023. Participating dairy operations with supplemental production may receive retroactive supplemental payments for 2021 in addition to payments based on their established production history.

Supplemental DMC will require a revision to a producer’s 2021 DMC contract and must occur before

enrollment in DMC for the 2022 program year.

Producers will be able to revise 2021 DMC contracts and then apply for 2022 DMC by contacting their local USDA Service Center.

After making any revisions to 2021 DMC contracts for Supplemental DMC, producers can sign up for 2022 coverage.

For DMC enrollment, producers must certify with FSA that the operation is commercially marketing milk, sign all required forms and pay the $100 administrative fee. The fee is waived for farmers who are considered limited resource, beginning, socially disadvantaged, or a military veteran.

USDA is also changing the DMC feed cost formula to better reflect the actual cost dairy farmers pay for high-quality alfalfa hay. FSA will calculate payments using 100 percent premium alfalfa hay rather than 50 percent.

USDA is also amending Dairy Indemnity Payment Program (DIPP) regulations to add provisions for the indemnification of cows that are likely to be not marketable for longer durations.

To learn more or to participate in DMC or DIPP, producers should contact their local USDA Service Center.

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

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

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

PAGE 13

Contacts reporting an uptick in replacement heifer prices This column was written for the marketing week ending Dec. 24.

First, I wish you a very merry and blessed Christmas and hope you can rejoice in “the reason for the season.” I believe most of us have much to be News and information for Minnesota and Northern Iowa dairy producers grateful for.

November milk production appeared Output per cow averaged 1,922 pounds, per cow; but cow numbers were up 2,000 head.

MIELKE MARKET to be below a year ago, according to the up 3 pounds or 0.2 percent from a year ago Oregon was up 0.5 percent on a 10-pound gain per WEEKLY U.S. Department of Agriculture’s latest California was up 32 million pounds or 1 cow. Cow numbers were unchanged. Pennsylvania Milk Production report (but then, so did

By Lee Mielke was down 3.5 percent on 10,000 fewer cows and 25 percent from a year ago, on a 20-pound October’s). pounds less per cow. South Dakota was up 16.7 gain per cow offsetting 1,000 fewer cows November output slipped to 18 billion pounds, milked. Revisions resulted in a 2 percent increase in percent, thanks to 22,000 more cows and a according to preliminary data, down just 0.4 percent 15-pound gain per cow. Texas was up 2.8 percent October from 2020 instead of a 1.3 percent decline from November 2020. Output in the top 24 major on 17,000 more cows; but output per cow was as originally reported. Wisconsin cows put 55 milproducing states totaled 17.3 billion pounds, down unchanged. lion more pounds in the tank in November than a 0.1 percent. year ago, up 2.2 percent, thanks to 18,000 more Vermont was down 1.4 percent on a 25-pound Revisions however, added 110 million pounds to cows and a 15 pound per cow increase. drop per cow. Cow numbers were unchanged. the original October estimate, now put at 18.6 milWashington State output was down 6.7 percent on a Michigan was off 0.8 percent on a 10-pound drop lion, up 0.1 percent instead of the originally reportloss of 17,000 cows and 15 pounds less per cow than per cow and 2,000 fewer cows. Minnesota was up ed drop of 0.5 percent.

1.9 percent on 6,000 more cows and a 10-pound gain a year ago.

November cow numbers totaled 9.39 million head, per cow. New Mexico again had the biggest drop, n down 10,000 from October. It is the sixth consecudown 13.2 percent, after falling 12.2 percent in The Dec. 17 Dairy and Food Market Analyst says tive month they were down from the previous October. Cow numbers were down 39,000 head and reports suggest the U.S. dairy herd is no longer month, and 47,000 head below a year ago. The output per cow was down 35 pounds. declining. “Between June and October 2021, cow October count was lowered 5,000 head.

New York was off 0.2 percent on a 10-pound drop See MIELKE, pg. 14

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THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

Surge in dairy prices more than offsetting increased costs MIELKE, from pg. 13

ago.

numbers had decreased by a total of 103,000 head, with a large number of herd exits in the southwest and west. Now, contacts are reporting rising replacement heifer prices. And from our survey of farm auction websites, we have seen a significant downtick in the number and size of dairy farms for sale. From our viewpoint, it looks like cow numbers are just now starting to climb again in the USA.” But, the Analyst adds, “A major shift in global milk supplies appears to be underway. Output in New Zealand is already capped out due to a lack of land. In Australia, too little consistent rainfall has limited investment in the industry.”

“The governments of European countries are announcing plans to limit and reduce milk supplies.

In October, the European Parliament adopted the Farm to Fork strategy, which, among many things, includes a mandate for a 20 percent reduction in fertilizer usage (including cow manure) and a target of 25 percent of all agricultural production becoming organic by 2030.”

The Analyst concludes, “This is the beginning of a shift of production away from Europe toward more cow-friendly countries, including the USA.” Meanwhile, China’s dairy appetite remains intact.

November whole milk powder imports totaled 142 million pounds, up 44.8 percent from November 2020. Skim milk powder totaled 68.4 million pounds, down 1.9 percent, though year-to-date are up 31 percent. Whey products totaled 107.3 million pounds, down 20.1 percent, but up 20.2 percent year-to-date.

Butter imports amounted to 10.6 million pounds, down 47.5 percent, with year-to-date up 13.6 percent. Cheese imports, at 35.4 million pounds, were up 37.2 percent and 38.1 percent year-to-date.

China’s cheese demand continues to be impressive, says HighGround Dairy, reaching 10-month highs in November and the strongest November ever. HighGround Dairy adds that imports from New Zealand jumped 42 percent followed by Australia. Gains from the United States by volume were the third largest after Oceania.

Back home, dairy cow culling fell from the previous month but bested that of a year ago in November, according to USDA’s latest Livestock Slaughter report.

An estimated 245,300 head were sent to slaughter under federal inspection in November, down 10,900 from October but 15,900 head or 6.9 percent above November 2020. Culling in the 11 month period totaled 2.84 million head, up 48,600 or 1.7 percent from a year ago.

In the week ending Dec. 11, 62,300 dairy cows were sent to slaughter, down 1,500 from the previous week, but 200 head or 0.3 percent above a year

n Checking supplies on hand, U.S. butter stocks plunged seasonally in November, falling from the previous month for the fifth consecutive time.

The USDA’s latest Cold Storage data shows the Nov. 30 inventory at 211.8 million pounds, down 67 million pounds or 24 percent from the October level, which was revised 2.7 million pounds lower than last month’s report. Stocks were 40 million pounds or 15.9 percent below those a year ago, second month in a row they were below a year ago, and were the lowest since December 2019.

The governments of European countries are announcing plans to limit and reduce milk supplies. In October, the European Parliament adopted the Farm to Fork strategy, which, among many things, includes a mandate for a 20 percent reduction in fertilizer usage (including cow manure) and a target of 25 percent of all agricultural production becoming organic by 2030.

— Dairy and Food Market Analyst Weaker butter production is the likely reason for the lower stocks, says StoneX Dairy’s analysis, “driven by larger demand for fat in other forms, namely cream, and weaker overall milk production;” but warns, “That will likely change as we head into next year with higher butter prices pulling more milk into the churn.”

cents below the blocks. There were five cars of block sold on the week at the CME and 12 of barrel.

Midwestern cheesemakers reported spot milk prices at expected discounts, below $1 under Class III Christmas Week; but, compared to last year, milk was notably less available and prices were as low as $8.50 under according to the Dairy Market News report from that week.

Cheese demand has been very steady in recent weeks and months and availability is balanced to tight in the region.

CME butter marched to a $2.25 per pound close on Dec. 23, the highest since Aug. 22, 2019. It is up 15.75 cents on the week and 72.5 cents above a year ago. There were 28 carloads that exchanged hands in the four days.

International interest in 82 percent butterfat unsalted loads remain strong, says Dairy Market News, while domestic demand for 80 percent salted loads has held steady. Contacts suggest cream availability may not remain long much after the onset of 2022, as some processors are behind on orders.

Meanwhile, domestic butter demand remains steady in the west at retail, food service, and internationally.

Grade A nonfat dry milk fell to $1.6625 per pound on Dec. 21, but closed Dec. 23 at $1.67. This is three-quarter cents lower on the week but 52.25 cents above a year ago, on 13 sales.

Dry whey lost a half-cent on Dec. 21 (the first loss since Dec. 1), but rallied and closed Dec. 23 at a new record-high 75 cents per pound. This is 28.25 cents above a year ago on two sales for the week at the CME. The USDA announced the first milk price of 2022.

The January Federal order Class I base is $19.71 per hundredweight, up 54 cents from December, $4.57 above January 2021, and the highest Class I since Dec. 2020. n Dairy margins strengthened noticeably over the first half of December, according to the latest Margin Watch from Chicago-based Commodity and Ingredient Hedging LLC. The Margin Watch credited a surge in milk prices more than offsetting steady to slightly higher projected feed costs.

“Class III and Class IV Milk prices advanced with slowing domestic and global milk production providing support amidst a backdrop of strong demand,” the Margin Watch stated. “Whey price strength has been a big contributor to Class III prices. Dry whey prices are up 53.2 percent since the beginning of the year, besting any dairy product price performance as well as that for many other agricultural commodities.”

“Strength in the export market with robust demand from global buyers has been a key feature

American-type cheese stocks fell to 835.2 million pounds, down 8.1 million pounds or 1 percent from October, but 73.2 million or 9.6 percent above those a year ago.

The “other” cheese category dropped to 565.7 million pounds, down 18.2 million pounds or 3.1 percent from October, and virtually unchanged from a year ago.

The total cheese inventory slipped to 1.42 billion pounds, down 27 million pounds or 1.9 percent from October, but an abundant 73.5 million pounds or 5.5 percent above a year ago. There were no big surprises in this report. n Christmas week saw Chicago Mercantile Exchange block cheddar close Dec. 23 at $1.8725 per pound. This is down 1.5 cents on the shortened week, but 27.5 cents above a year ago.

The barrels fell to $1.6250 per pound on Dec. 20, but finished Dec. 23 at $1.65. This is up 2 cents on See MIELKE, pg. 18 the week, 18.5 cents above a year ago, but 22.25

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

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

PAGE 15

Several key policy issues are at the forefront in 2022

Congress continues to be highly divided Program (CSP), and other conservation Ethanol and biodiesel policy and developon many key topics and will likely remain programs. The BBB bill also contains ment — Many states in the Upper Midwest, includin that mode until after the 2022 midfunding for renewable energy developing Minnesota, have a well-established corn-based term elections, and possibly longer. Most ment (primarily wind and solar energy), ethanol industry, which utilizes over 35 percent of likely, we will continue to have renewable diesel tax credits, research the corn produced each year in the United States. In Congressional discussions on infrastrucand development of sustainable aviation addition to the direct benefits to farmers, renewable ture legislation and funding, climate fuels, and transition to electric vehicles. energy plants have become cornerstones in rural change and carbon sequestration, renewThe House version BBB bill did not communities by providing jobs, adding to the local able energy, and dealing with new strains increase the capital gains tax rate for tax base, and enhancing the overall economic vitaliof Covid. However, we are also likely to ty of the communities. The renewable fuel standards FARM PROGRAMS farmers or include any adjustments to have initial hearings on the next Farm the “stepped-up basis” rule on farm which are set by the U.S. Environmental Protection

By Kent Thiesse Bill in the coming months. There are assets and would not change the farm Agency are targeting corn-based ethanol blending many important issues and decisions estate tax exemption; however, rates to return to the statutory level of 15 billion that potentially could affect farmers farmers remain very wary of poten- gallons per year in 2022, after being temporarily and the agriculture industry, which tial future costs and tax implicaSee THIESSE, pg. 17 could possibly be addressed by Congress and the tions of this legislation. The initial cost of the White House in 2022 and beyond.

House BBB bill was listed at $1.75 trillion; however, the Congressional Budget Office has estimated Following is perspective on some key ag policy the total cost at closer to $5 trillion once the legisissues which may be under consideration by Congress or through executive action in the coming lation has been fully implemented. The diverse BBB bill is now being debated in the U.S. Senate year: and if passed could have some changes in both proInfrastructure legislation and implementagrams and funding from original House Bill. If a tion — After months of negotiation, the Federal compromise is reached on the BBB legislation early “Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act” or soin 2022 that allows it to pass both houses of called “Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework” (BIF) Congress and be signed into law, it will likely bill, was passed by Congress and will now be imple- include several provisions that will impact farmers mented by the Federal government. The BIF legisand the agriculture industry. lation provides $1.2 trillion in funding for basic Climate change and carbon sequestration — infrastructure projects. This includes approximately It seems that everyone from members of Congress, $550 billion in new spending, with the remaining business leaders, the national media, and local $650 billion being for pre-allocated funding targeted toward highway projects and other projects that friends and neighbors are discussing carbon sequestration, carbon credits, and potential legislawere already scheduled. Of the new funding, $284 tion to address climate change. Obviously, there is billion or 52 percent will be allocated toward for a wide range of opinions regarding the impacts of surface transportation needs, including road and climate change and how to address the situation. bridge projects and modernizing the U.S. rail sysSome would like to see a strong-handed approach tem, as well as upgrades to ports and waterways by the Federal government relative to types of and public transit investments. The remaining $266 billion (48 percent of the funding) is allocated vehicles we drive, energy policy, and farming practices, while others would like to see a more volunto other core infrastructure projects, such as improving the U.S. electrical grid, expanding broad- tary and incentivized economic approach that is developed by business and industry. One quote at band access, drinking water and wastewater Farmfest this past year by an expert on carbon improvement projects, and other targeted rural development efforts. Many of these basic infrastruc- credits was: “the carbon market is like the wild, wild west,” meaning there is no clear-cut path as to ture projects will benefit farmers, businesses, and where the United States or the ag industry is rural communities. headed related to the carbon market. Several com“Build Back Better” legislation — In panies have already introduced carbon programs November, the U.S. House passed the so-called that will pay farmers for introducing practices that “Build Back Better” (BBB) Act that is a broadsequester carbon, so that those carbon credits can based piece of legislation would address many be in turn used by those companies or sold on the issues and would boost targeted spending for cliopen market. Before farmers enter into long-term mate change, renewable energy, health care, childagreements related to carbon credits, it is imporcare, education, immigration, and other social infra- tant for them to know what practices will qualify structure provisions. It is estimated that approxifor carbon credits, what will the compensation be mately $82 billion was included in the House verfor the carbon credits, and are there potential sion of the BBB legislation for agriculture related future impacts on their farming operation. The spending and provisions. This includes funding for “bottom-line” is that it is probably better to “walk a 5-year program to pay farmers $25 per acre for before you run” when it comes to make major planting cover crops, as well as major funding changes in a farming operation strictly targeted increases for the Environmental Quality Incentives toward gaining compensation from the emerging Program (EQIP), the Conservation Security carbon market.

MARKETING

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THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

MARKETING

Grain Outlook Soybeans lead the way for corn rally The following marketing analysis is for the week ending Dec. 24.

CORN — The higher trend in corn continued as March corn finally pushed through the $6.00 per bushel resistance for the first time since July 2021.

Corn felt pressure to start the week from the macro side with big energy losses on fears of Omicron repercussions. Dry forecasts for South America were set aside for a day but came back into focus as the holiday-shortened week progressed. A very strong soybean complex paved the way for the rally in corn.

Weekly export sales were as expected for old crop at 38.7 million bushels and very strong for PHYLLIS NYSTROM new crop at 5.3 million bushels.

CHS Hedging Inc. Total old crop commitments St. Paul stand at 1.55 billion bushels and are running 6 percent behind last year. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is anticipating a 9 percent year-on-year decline in exports. We need to average 25 million bushels of sales per week to hit the USDA’s 2.5 billion bushel export projection. Weekly export inspections were over 1 million metric tons, but we need to average 1.37 mmt per week to hit the USDA’s export outlook, and we haven’t achieved that level in this marketing year.

Weekly ethanol production fell 36,000 barrels per day to 1.05 million bpd; but held above the needed pace to hit the USDA outlook. Ethanol stocks were down 178,000 barrels to 20.7 million barrels and the first decline in five weeks. Weekly gasoline demand fell from 9.472 million bpd to 8.986 million bpd.

Gasoline demand over the last four weeks is up 15 percent compared to a year ago. Ethanol margins were slammed 25 cents as they dropped to 88 cents per gallon.

High corn prices in China suggest they will be in the market for corn imports. However, China’s November corn imports were the lowest in nineteen months at 790,000 metric tons and down 35.7 percent lower than November 2020. We haven’t seen China in our corn market for months.

Brazil’s second corn crop or safrinha corn crop is the larger of their corn crops. It is planted after the soybean harvest. Current weather shouldn’t have an impact on the safrinha crop at this time, but it may in the future if La Niña is lengthy. This situation will

Cash Grain Markets

corn/change* soybeans/change* St. Cloud $5.95 +.19 $13.30 +1.00 Madison $5.89 +.15 $13.35 +.95 Redwood Falls $5.98 +.17 $13.39 +.99 Fergus Falls $5.85 +.10 $13.21 +.86 Morris $5.87 +.12 $13.33 +.89 Tracy $5.93 +.13 $13.26 +.98 Average:

$5.91

$13.31

Year Ago Average: $3.87 $11.18 Grain prices are effective cash close on Dec. 28. *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.

be monitored over the next few months for potential problems.

Outlook: While everyone is aware of the issues with South American weather, don’t lose sight of the tensions between Ukraine and Russia and what that could mean to agricultural commodity markets if they come to blows. If Covid and related strain cases continue to increase around the world, economic growth may be slowed. Good demand and positive ethanol crush margins should keep basis levels firm.

The next obstacle for March corn is the $6.16.5 level from July after March corn closed above $6.00 for the first time in six months. The next level of resistance lies near $6.25-$6.33 per bushel. For the week, March corn was 12.5 cents higher at $6.05.75, July rallied 13.25 cents to $6.06, and the December 2022 contract was 7 cents higher at $5.53.5 per bushel.

The markets are not taking any time off for the New Year’s holiday. The markets will be open normal hours on Dec. 31 and Jan. 3.

SOYBEANS – Fireworks were seen in soybeans during the holiday-shortened week and ahead of the January option expiration. On the continuous monthly soybean chart, soybeans are headed for the first higher monthly close since April!

South American weather forecasts for hotter and drier conditions through the end of the year for Argentina and southern Brazil were the driving factor. Their temperatures have surpassed 100 degrees in northern Argentina and southern Brazil.

January soybeans traded through $13.00 per bushel for the first time since Sept. 30. January soybeans topped out for the week at $13.34 per bushel and the March contract traded as high as $13.42.5 per bushel. January and March soybeans soared to their highest prices since August 2021. January meal traded to prices not seen since mid-May when it topped out at $423.60 per ton. This week’s high was $407.80 per ton.

Private estimates for South American soybean and corn production are beginning to decline. Up until now, rain in Argentina and southern Brazil were enough to get by, but we weren’t adding anything to the subsoil. Dryness and heat have increased with reports of aborted pods in Parana, Brazil with some reports that Parana’s soybean yield is already down 12 percent. One private consultant cut their Brazilian soybean production 2 mmt to 142 mmt vs. the USDA’s 144 mmt forecast.

For Argentina, the number fell 1 mmt to 49 mmt compared to the USDA’s 49.5 mmt outlook. Northern Brazil is developing in favorable conditions with some early soybean harvest expected in December; but there have also been reports of flooding in northeastern Brazil. If the weather allows early soybean harvest in Mato Grosso, Brazil could begin before the end of the year.

The soymeal market continues to strengthen on a shortage of lysine for feed. Soyoil trade was volatile as was the energy market. Energies affect the soyoil market through biofuel usage. Fears of further lockdowns and restrictions fed into a huge energy sell-off to begin the week before recovering through the end of the week.

Weekly export sales were a marketing-year low at 29.8 million bushels. Total commitments, at 1.5 billion bushels, are down 24 percent from last year when the USDA is forecasting a 9.4 percent yearon-year decline. We need to average 15 million bushels of sales per week to reach the USDA’s 2.05 billion bushel outlook. Weekly export inspections were at the lower end of expectations at 1.7 mmt.

Year-to-date soybean inspections are down 22.8 percent.

Outlook: Both January and March soybeans have a string of eight higher closes as of Dec. 23. March soymeal traded to its highest price since mid-May. South American weather will continue to be the main focus of the market. Into the end of the year, the current forecast is hot and dry for southern Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Northeastern Brazil has been receiving decent rain and to an excess in some locations. In Brazil, it is difficult to say to what extent losses in the south may be countered by gains in the north. Early soybean harvest in Brazil is expected to begin before the end of the year.

Other items of interest will be the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, the lysine shortage, and the world’s reaction to Omicron cases. The high this week in March soybeans was $13.42.5 per bushel. The next upside target for March soybeans is $13.76.25 per bushel, the high in August; but it’s all dependent on Mother Nature.

Merry Christmas and happy New Year!

Weekly price changes in March wheat: Chicago jumped 39.75 to $8.14.75, Kansas City surged 51.5 cents to $8.61.5, and Minneapolis was a dime higher at $10.32.5 per bushel. v

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

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

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

PAGE 17

Many questions remain concerning next Farm Bill THIESSE, from pg. 15 reduced in 2020 and 2021 due to impacts from the Covid pandemic.

The EPA has also been far less lenient with granting the “small refinery exemptions” to gasoline refiners this past year than occurred in some previous years; however, many farmers and investors remain highly concerned about where ethanol production and utilization will fit into future U.S. energy policy. Proposed Federal legislation such as the BBB bill, as well as statewide initiatives such as the “California Fuel Standards,” have put future research and development of biofuels in the forefront of the climate change battle. Most of the emphasis is on new types of biofuels such as renewable diesel which is refined from soybeans and other crops, utilizing a different process than traditional biodiesel. Another initiative is for “sustainable aviation fuel” which might be developed by alterations to the current ethanol production practices. These initiatives have some support from private companies, as well as the Federal government, and may offer some future opportunities for U.S. crop producers.

Trade policy — During the 2020-21 USDA marketing year for corn and soybeans, which ended on September 30, 2021, grain export levels returned to very solid levels compared to recent years. From 2017 to 2019, efforts to reset previous trade agreements with China resulted in serious trade disputes between the United States and China. Numerous tariffs were implemented on many goods and services being imported from China, as well as those being exported by the United States to China — including soybeans, pork, and other agricultural products. The new Phase 1 trade agreement between the United States and China was close to being fully implemented during 2020-21 marketing year. The result was a rebound of soybean exports to China to near “pre-trade war” levels, as well as a surprising increase in corn exports to China. There is concern the recent increased political tensions between the United States and China may lead to renewed trade disruptions between the two countries going forward.

There also continues to be discussions surrounding the possibility of the United States attempting to enter the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement with many Asian countries, including Japan, as well as potential future trade agreements with other countries. In addition, there continues to be modifications in trade relations with Canada and Mexico, which together with China comprise the three largest trade partners for U.S. ag products.

Livestock-related issues — After Jan. 1, 2022, the pork industry will be challenged by the implementation of “Proposition 12” — the California law which will restrict a significant amount of the pork produced in the Midwest and other areas of the United States from being sold in California. Pork producers are also very concerned with outbreak of

African swine fever disease in the Dominican Republic and Haiti during the past year, and the potential production and market disruptions that would be caused by an AFS outbreak in the United States.

Many beef producers are concerned with the continuing impacts of the 2021 drought that affected many cow/calf production areas of the country. Beef producers are also quite interested in the Congressional hearings and Department of Justice investigations related to pricing practices within the beef processing industry.

Dairy farmers have seen some improvement in profit levels during the past year. However, the longterm trend in the dairy industry is for continued tight profit margins. This means that it will likely be necessary to continue federal dairy support programs in the future as a financial protection tool for small-to-medium sized dairy operations.

support” program model?

Will climate change, carbon credits, and other carbon sequestration efforts be linked into the commodity title the next Farm Bill, either on a mandatory or voluntary approach?

Will CRP acres be expanded or set-aside acres be added to address carbon sequestration efforts?

How will the proposed funding and program enhancements for EQIP, CSP, and other existing conservation programs listed in the proposed BBB bill be incorporated into the next Farm Bill?

Will there be enhanced risk management tools be added to the Farm Bill for livestock producers?

Will there be other changes to the Nutrition Title of the Farm Bill?

What will be the baseline budget allocation for the various commodity titles in the next Farm Bill?

It should be noted that some policy experts feel that it is highly likely that the current Farm Bill could be extended by one year or more, given the After Jan. 1, 2022, the pork induscurrent political divide in Congress on major policy try will be challenged by the imple- issues. mentation of “Proposition 12” — There are numerous other issues and policy the California law which will restrict efforts that could impact farm operators and rural a significant amount of the pork communities in 2022 and beyond. Some other key produced in the Midwest and other policy issues to be addressed going forward include inflation and rapidly rising farm input costs, labor areas of the United States from shortages and immigration policy, rural health care being sold in California. access and costs, expansion of broadband coverage, Looking ahead to the next Farm Bill — The and infrastructure needs. Obviously, concerns with current Farm Bill expires on Sept. 30, 2023, so the Covid pandemic have not gone away, so policies Congressional discussions on the next Farm Bill that are enacted at the Federal level, either through will likely begin early in 2022. Current issues such legislative action or administrative order, can ceras providing adequate an “safety net” for crop and tainly affect the future of the agriculture industry. livestock producers, response to climate change, and Even though farmers and rural communities make links to social issues are likely to affect the discusup a small percentage of the total U.S. population, sions surrounding the next Farm Bill. Following are the policies that are passed by Congress and implesome key questions relative to development of the mented by the Federal government targeting the ag next Farm Bill that will likely enter into the debate: industry can have a big impact on the future food supply, energy security and other aspects of life for Will crop insurance continue to be protected as the entire U.S. population. the corner-stone risk management tool for farmers or will there be efforts to create a permanent disasKent Thiesse is a government farm programs anater program similar to the WHIP+ program? lyst and a vice president at MinnStar Bank in Lake Crystal, Minn. He may be reached at (507) 726-2137 Will crop producers still have annual farm prov gram choices (PLC and ARC-CO) or will commodity or kent.thiesse@minnstarbank.com. farm programs transition back to more of a “price-

New Leadership for SROC The University of Minnesota Southern Research and Outreach Center is under new leadership.

Jason Stenzel of Waseca accepted the leadership role earlier this month serving as Director of Operations. Stenzel joined the SROC team in 2016 serving as Farm Manager/Maintenance Jason Stenzel

Supervisor.

Under Stenzel’s leadership, the SROC looks forward to continuing strong partnerships with the local ag community that promote multidisciplinary research and outreach programs to enhance agricultural production systems across southern Minnesota.

This article was submitted by the University of Minnesota. v

PAGE 18

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THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

Pork Producers CEO Preisler announces retirement MANKATO, Minn. — David Preisler, long-time CEO of the Minnesota Pork Producers Association and Minnesota Pork Board, announced his plans to retire from the organization effective June 1, 2022.

Preisler notified the Board of his plans at its Board meeting on Dec. 16. His retirement will mark nearly 28 years leading the Pork association and representing the interests of Minnesota’s family pig farmers.

“It has been a privilege to work with some of the country’s best livestock farmers here in Minnesota who are not only excellent farmers but outstanding industry leaders at both the state and national levels,” Preisler said. “Minnesota is the second largest state in pork production (value and number of market pigs raised) and we are fortunate to have a very strong producer-led organization with knowledgeable and committed Board members, a dedicated

staff, and strong relationships across the agricultural community and beyond. It has been an honor to serve Minnesota’s pig farmers who are committed to doing what is right for their animals, their people and communities, and the environment. My career has really been about the people, and I have had the joy of working with exceptional staff who also believe in serving farmers. I really feel like I’m stepping away from the organization at the right time and in very good hands.”

John Anderson, a Stearns County pig farmer and current president of the Minnesota Pork Producers Association, commented, “Dave has provided excellent leadership to Minnesota Pork and has effectively represented the interests of pork producers throughout Minnesota and nationally. Over the years, Dave has helped producers navigate the intricacies of gov-

ernment policy, permitting, sustainability, animal wellbeing, and the importance of consumer outreach and engagement. The pork industry has faced difficult situations over Dave’s career and his steady leadership and commitment to Minnesota pig farmers helped see us through the challenging seasons of farming. Minnesota Pork is in a good place today because of Dave Preisler and we wish him the very best in future years.”

Preisler has committed to assisting Minnesota Pork with the transition to a new leader. The Board intends to conduct a search of potential candidates to replace Preisler over the coming months.

This article was submitted by the Minnesota Pork Producers Association. v

Report: ‘U.S. dairy exports are set to record a stellar year’ MIELKE, from pg. 14

fat inched up 0.9 percent following a 3 percent rise.

Skim milk powder was up 0.6 percent after rising supporting the market. Year-to-date, dry whey 1.3 percent last time, and cheddar cheese inched 0.5 exports are up 7.4 percent from 2020, with strong percent higher, following a 1 percent gain last time. demand from China in particular. China’s imports of StoneX Dairy Group says the GDT 80 percent butwhey and dry whey products grew more than 30 terfat butter price equates to $2.5891 per pound percent in 2021, and most of these imports are comU.S., up 2.6 cents, after jumping 11.4 cents last time ing from the United States that maintains a price and 8.2 cents the time before that. CME butter advantage over EU suppliers.” closed Dec. 23 at a bargain $2.25. GDT cheddar, at “Demand is expected to slow in 2022 however due $2.3773 per pound U.S., was up almost a penny and to a declining birth rate in China that will limit compares to Dec. 23’s CME block cheddar at demand for infant formulas, as well as low hog pric$1.8725. GDT skim milk powder averaged $1.6986 es that will limit demand for feed-grade whey. Class per pound, up from $1.6877. Whole milk powder IV prices are drawing support meanwhile from butaveraged $1.7540 per pound, down from $1.8178. ter which is trading at a two-year high above $2.00 CME Grade A nonfat dry milk closed Dec. 23 at per pound as U.S. prices are trading below interna$1.67 per pound tional values. Butter exports have helped to draw StoneX’s Dustin Winston says, “Since whole milk down stocks from July through October at the fastpowder carries the bulk of volume in the auction, est pace since 2013,” the Margin Watch concluded. the decline dragged the index down.” n n Whole milk powder reversed the last Global Dairy The Foreign Agricultural Service’s World Markets Trade auction of 2021, as the weighted average fell and Trade report says, “Despite the logistical chal1.5 percent (the first decline since Aug. 3) and followed a gain of 1.4 percent on Dec. 7; 1.9 percent on lenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, U.S. dairy Nov. 16; and 4.3 percent on Nov. 2. Traders brought exports are set to record a stellar year led by shipments of skimmed milk powder, cheese and butter.

67 million pounds of product to market, down from Skimmed milk powder shipments through October 68.5 million last time. have already reached 689,000 tons — accounting for Whole milk powder was down 3.3 percent after nearly one-third of the $6.4 billion of dairy exports inching up 0.6 percent on Dec. 7. All other products already shipped. For the year, skimmed milk powder posted gains, led by lactose — up 3.7 percent after exports are forecast to reach a record 887,000 tons, gaining 3.5 percent on Dec. 7. up almost 10 percent over 2020,” according to the Butter was up 1 percent after leading the gains report. last time with a 4.6 percent surge. Anhydrous milk-

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

“Growth is anticipated to moderate in 2022 with exports set to grow by 3 percent to reach 917,000 tons. Global prices of skimmed milk powder have been rebounding recently as a result of lackluster milk production in Oceania and the EU. Skimmed milk powder prices in these regions are currently hovering around $1.60 to $1.65 per pound. While U.S. prices remain competitive, import demand is expected to be tempered as food processors seek more cost-effective substitutes,” the report warned.

“One notable trend is that U.S. global market share of skimmed milk powder among major exporters has been steadily climbing from around 30percent in 2015 and is forecast to reach 41 percent in 2022. Since 2014, the EU has been the dominant supplier. However, this year U.S. exports of skimmed milk powder are expected to surpass EU shipments.”

The reported added, “This trend is likely to persist into next year as U.S. milk production is expected to continue to grow. Exports of other dairy products such as cheese and butter have also posted strong gains this year. In the case of cheese, shipments this year are expected to grow by 16 percent to reach a record 412,000 tons. U.S. butter has also been highly sought after as it is highly competitive in a tight global market. Recent Oceania prices have been around $2.65 per pound while EU prices have been higher. Exports of U.S. butter this year are expected to more than double from last year to reach 60,000 tons. In recent months, global prices for major dairy commodities have been rising rapidly due to strong demand and faltering milk production in key producing countries.”

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

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

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

PAGE 19

Petersen: ‘Minnesota is an agricultural powerhouse’

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus OLIVIA, Minn. — Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture Thom Petersen was a guest speaker at the Minnesota National Farmers Organization annual convention. The event took place at Max’s Grill in Olivia, Minn. on Dec. 4. Appointed Commissioner in 2019, Petersen is a long-time resident of Royalton Township near Pine City, Minn. where he lives on a horse farm. Prior, he was director of government relations for Minnesota Farmers Union — working in both Washington, D. C. and St. Paul.

I was able to chat with Petersen at the Olivia event about farm economy, Minnesota markets and the state’s ongoing battle of the parties in St. Paul.

The Land: Welcome to Minnesota’s Corn Capital.

You know this Renville County area quite well?

Petersen: Indeed. This is a highly-productive county blessed with good soils and innovative farmers. I recall two seed companies out here, RBA Seeds and Keltgen Seeds … both were big news makers in the seed industry. And that I suspect spurred the Minnesota Legislature in the early 1990’s to designate Olivia as the “Corn Capital of Minnesota.”

The Land: We’re seeing lots of new wealth in Minnesota agriculture this year. Is this a short-term bump or a continued bonanza?

Petersen: Most of the state is in good shape; but quite a few cattle producers in northwestern Minnesota are still feeling the effects of our draught this season. Many farmers tell me they were pleasantly surprised with yields, high test weight corn and market prices that strengthened — even stayed strong through the harvest season. But we are concerned about input costs. I’m told fertilizer costs pushing into the $300 per acre category. Virtually all other costs also significantly higher … including land rental charges. Hopefully farmers can now enjoy a couple of good years, because a farmer’s financial health is vital to our rural communities also.

The Land: This inevitable … do you think the November 2022 election will be a turning point in the politics of America?

Petersen: I’ve learned to not make predictions because just a couple months can make a huge difference in the political structure of our state — even our country. But what’s great about Minnesota is our people really get engaged in politics, even at the highest level. Best I can say today, Dick, is let’s just see how it plays out. Yes, some change seems inevitable based on political polls aired on the news networks these days.”

The Land: Let’s talk about hemp, still being touted as a new crop industry here in Minnesota. Here in Olivia we have a company (Seehausen Brothers) striving to finance the building of a hemp processing facility. What’s your take on the status of the hemp industry in Minnesota?

Petersen: We have about 400 farmers with some

hemp acres this year. Because of limited processing and marketing however, there’s been little increase in the past couple of years. We’ve got to get more processing going. It’s not bigger companies getting involved; it’s younger start-ups. But startups are tough. Get some processing going and I think we’ll see hemp emerge as a nice new niche crop. We’re talking about 5,000 acres currently.

The Land: Are there any cattle on your own farming operation?

Petersen: Not anymore … just horses now. But I’m thinking about buying some cattle. I was working on one of my fence lines yesterday and was inspired to possibly buy some feeders next year. I’m about one hour north of the Cities in Pine City.

The Land: So with grain markets strong, more corn for your operation next year?

Petersen: We’re on the ‘corn line’ north to Duluth.

Since I bought my first land 30 years ago, genetics have boosted corn’s durability considerably. And that’s making corn a more attractive crop — even for us more northern growers with shorter seasons. But I do know export shipments out of the Duluth harbor often include lots of corn. And that’s good for all producers. So maybe some more corn for us in 2022.

The Land: Any policy issue in this legislative session on your agenda?

Petersen: Yes, we’re still trying to expand our local meat processing capabilities. You’ll recall a couple years back some meat processing facilities got shut down because of Covid-19 impact and regulations.

Yes, some producers had to slaughter their own animals because processing facilities were shut down.

Farmers here today telling me of up to a year-long delay to get their own animals processed at their local locker plant. So more expansion is definitely needed.

We’re also working to expand E-15 marketing across the state. E-15 sales will set a record this year.

Yes, this helps bolster corn prices, but also ethanol fuel emissions produce cleaner air. And that’s why I think E-15 fuels eventually will become the new standard at Minnesota fuel pumps. It’s a slow process, but it might organically happen because we’ve got smart consumers. As they tune into the environmental bonuses of ethanol fuels, plus cheaper pump prices too, E-15 will become stronger across Minnesota.

Also, water quality issues are a constant. Because of our 10,000 lakes legacy we have WACO — the Wetlands Conservation Act — so Minnesota already has wetlands regulations. So we’re less concerned about national wetland Issues again being discussed.

Common sense so farmers can farm while still protecting the environment is our thinking here at the Commissioner’s office.

The Land: The Minnesota Senate has removed a couple of department heads and has not ruled out more. How comfortable is the Commissioner’s chair these days?HHh Petersen: My appointment started three years ago. It’s gone by fast, but is most interesting work … including this pandemic crisis; the wettest year in 2019; and then now this droughty 2021 season. But Minnesota is an agricultural powerhouse. We’re known and respected amongst other major farm states. It’s an honor to be the Ag Commissioner in this state.”

Appointed by Gov. Tim Waltz in 2019, Petersen makes it a point to travel almost every county in Minnesota each year to fully understand how these policies affect farmers’ daily lives.

To learn more about the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, visit www.mda.state.mn. v

www.TheLandOnline.com

Apply now for Minnesota Association of Townships scholarship ST. MICHAEL, Minn, — The Minnesota Association of Townships recently announced its 2022 Scholarship Program, which will award up to five $2,000 scholarships to high school juniors. All students currently enrolled in 11th grade and attending a Minnesota public, private, or parochial school, or a home-study program, are eligible to apply for this program.

Since its inception in 2001, the MAT Scholarship Program has had over 2100 submissions and 92 winners.

Applicants should submit a written essay using

critical thinking on the topic of promoting township government by May 1. Winners will be chosen by an independent panel of judges and will be notified midAugust 2022. They will also be invited to attend MAT’s annual conference in St. Cloud, Minn. in October.

For more information and application details, call the MAT offices at 1-800-228-0296 or visit www. mntownships.org.

This article was submitted by the Minnesota Association of Townships. v

PAGE 20

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Miscellaneous

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FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls ” also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ - Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred - Kemen 320-598-3790 ’ t Swine FOR SALE: Yorkshire, Hampshire, Duroc, cross - bred boars, gilts & 4-H pigs.

0 Top quality. Excellent herd S health. No PRSS. Delivery D available. 320-760-0365 Spot, Duroc, Chester White, k Boars & Gilts available.

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Pets & Supplies Purebred Heelers for sale, 5 red males, 6 months old, puppy shots, farm raised looking for good homes, serious inquiries only. Contact David at 651-214-0072

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PAGE 24

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

THE LAND — DECEMBER 24/DECEMBER 31, 2021

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

West Union redux?

S

t. Alexius Catholic church rests on a knoll, bordered by bur oaks which remember the ancient prairie, and looks over the fertile black farm fields that have made this place a prosperous agricultural region for 150 years. The church itself has been watching over the affairs of the village of West Union, in the southwest corner of Todd County, for the last 122 years. Oddly, the current population, which has been growing for 30 years, is now also 122.

It was the rich soils that brought settlers, and the Catholic monks who founded St. Alexius, to the area. It was the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, connecting them with St. Paul and Moorhead in 1879, that caused them to build a village along the tracks where West Union’s small commercial area is today.

In 1900, the date of village incorporation, there was a co-operative creamery, two grain elevators, two general stores, a blacksmith, hardware store, lumber yard, drug store, livery, and a restaurant.

Like so many agricultural communities built up along the railroad, West Union boomed and then declined in a matter of a couple of decades.

West Union had an estimated 200 to 250 residents in 1900, according to the “Bicentennial

History of Todd County.” After that peak, railroads began to decline, schools consolidated, farms became fewer, highways by-passed communities, and people moved away. By 1920 the population had declined to 161. Fifty years later West Union hit a rock bottom of 54 — two years before the Otter Tail Valley Western Railroad tore up the railroad ties.

But from that low of 54 souls, the population more than doubled over 30 years. Who knows what caused the increase? Maybe it was when the state, county and local citizens built the bicycle and snowmobile path which connects West Union to Sauk Centre, Osakis and Alexandria. Maybe it was the nice park with amenities which was built between the trail and Main Street. Maybe it was Sidewalks Bar and Grill, with it’s knockout delicious menu of 20 specialty burgers that did it.

Maybe it was the town’s refusal to give up on its legendary 4th of July parade which has been held for 68 consecutive years. Maybe it was the parishioners of St. Alexius church and their annual October Sausage Fest. Or maybe it was that dark, ancient prairie soil that brought them all here in the first place.

Who knows? West Union is growing again. v

West Union, Minn.

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