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THE LAND — APRIL 1/APRIL 8, 2022
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
Honoring the FFA 418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56001 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XLI ❖ No. 7 24 pages, 1 section plus supplements
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COLUMNS Opinion Farm and Food File From My Farmhouse Kitchen The Bookworm Sez Table Talk Mielke Market Weekly Swine & U Marketing Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads
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Founded in 1928 by a group of young tion of those who are willing to serve. farmers whose aim was to prepare future I was thrilled when I found out that generations to feed the nation’s growing Erman was named a Hall of Fame population, FFA has evolved into an orgainductee as the passion he has had nization that prepares youth for success throughout the years for agriculture and in agriculture and leadership. Minnesota education is impressive. He never tires currently has 13,894 FFA members and when it comes to enriching the lives of 218 agricultural education programs students. across the state. Erman was the vocational ag instructor LAND MINDS The pride in FFA is evident as I once for 13 years (1955-1968) at Fertile High By Kristin Kveno again interviewed former FFA state offiSchool. In addition to teaching high cers from 25 years ago. Their paths in school students, he also taught young life have taken them down many difadult and adult farmer classes. Erman ferent roads but one thing remains was instrumental in the development constant and that is the gratitude they all have in of the Adult Farm Management Program at Fertile. the FFA organization. They each sought leadership It was during his time at FHS that 38 FFA memopportunities and those experiences continue to bers received their State Farmer degrees. One stuenrich their lives to this day. dent became a Star State Farmer and three received Cory Buysse, Tyson Hill, Laura (Klein) Richardson, American Farmer degrees. Aaron Stegemann, Cindy Mulert and Patricia After his time in Fertile, Erman became an Norman will be recognized at the Minnesota FFA instructor at the University of Minnesota convention which takes place April 24-26. Crookston. He was the director of the cooperative Also happening at the convention is the acknowleducation program, the ag department chair and edgment of the Minnesota FFA Hall of Fame class the head of the agricultural business program. He of 2022. According to the Minnesota FFA Alumni was also co-chairman of UMC’s FFA program. At Association, this year’s eight inductees will join 222 UMC Erman taught approximately 25 courses to members who have been inducted into the Hall of thousands of students. Fame over the past 17 years. The Hall of Fame is a The depth of Erman’s work over the years — in joint effort between the Minnesota FFA Association, both ag education and FFA — is remarkable and is Foundation and Alumni. just one example of the amazing people who have This year’s Hall of Fame inductees are: been part of the FFA organization throughout the ● Pat Dingels, Redwood Falls, Minn. years. ● Charles Krause, Buffalo, Minn. It only takes one person to make a difference in ● Becky Meyer, Vadnais Heights, Minn. someone’s life. Over the years of interviewing for● Kerry Lindgren, Staples, Minn. mer state FFA officers, I have heard them recount ● Ronald Sommers, Northfield, Minn. stories of advisors who provided the mentorship ● Dave Swanson, Hawley, Minn. that was vital to their growth and development. We ● Erman Ueland, Fertile, Minn. need more people in this world like Pat, Charles, ● Stan Vander Kooi, Buffalo, Minn. Becky Meyer, Kerry, Ronald, Dave, Erman and Stan One of the inductees is my husband Seth’s grand- as their time and talents made a positive impact on pa, Erman Ueland. While I don’t know the other the Minnesota FFA organization. 2022 Hall of Fame members, I would assume that Congratulations to the Class of 2022 FFA Hall of they have a similar drive and unending enthusiasm Fame! for agricultural education that Erman has had all Kristin Kveno is the staff writer of The Land. She these years. This organization — like so many — is may be reached at kkveno@TheLandOnline.com. v only successful thanks to the hard work and dedica-
OPINION
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
9 — Products displayed at MN Pork Congress are cutting edge 10 — ROCORI students are learning the finer points of growing Kernza 15 — Remember safety first when transporting livestock
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If futures markets don’t work, your markets won’t work Contrary to the woeful baying by Big market from mid-February to early Agbiz, the United States — and any March as Russia invaded Ukraine. On nation with enough money — will not Feb. 18, a week before the invasion, run out of food this year. This can be said Chicago May wheat futures prices were without reservation for two reasons. $8.04 per bushel. After three weeks of volatile, war-fueled trading, May futures First, war or no war, there is no global had soared to over $12. shortage of wheat — the crop today’s Chicken Littles are cluck-cluck clucking On March 8, however, the May contract about. In the last week of March, numer- FARM & FOOD FILE rocketed to $13.63 per bushel just as ous sources pointed out the estimated futures trading began that day. Shortly By Alan Guebert shortfall in Russian wheat export sales thereafter, something — or someone — due to its war in Ukraine will be about hit the market and May futures fell off 7 million metric tons this marketing the table, down $2 per bushel. By the year. close of the bruising session, prices had clawed back to $12.86 per bushel, or almost While that sounds like a lot, 7 mmt is, in fact, 0.9 exactly where they had finished the day before. percent of Russia’s staggering 778 mmt 2021 wheat crop. What happened? So, no, the loss of less than one percent of any No one really knows. And worse, it’s likely no one nation’s farm production in any commodity will not will ever know; because the futures markets’ key lead to global famine. regulator, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission — like many government agencies in The second reason the world will not run out of the past decade — has given most of its oversight wheat is that when properly functioning markets functions to the markets themselves, notes Dr. Steve operate in an open, transparent manner, price rations supply and demand. Yes, that can get coldly Suppan of the Institute of Agriculture and Trade Policy in Minneapolis. expensive; but it also ensures the global cupboard never really empties. In a prescient March 16 post on the IATP website titled “Wheat futures prices and the war on regulaAnd that is what happened in the wheat futures tion,” Suppan describes the long, anti-oversight
OPINION
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game most futures exchanges played with federal watchdogs after post-2008 laws gave regulators greater power to oversee markets. That fight culminated with a 3-to-2 vote in late 2020 by the five-member board that relinquished “nearly all CFTC authority to the exchanges…” One of the two dissenters on the panel, Suppan notes, said the shift made ‘the players on the field the referees.’ “In this arena,” however, “the public interest loses.” It’s hard for the public to see that; because futures markets appear to be arcane exchanges where cab drivers become millionaires by buying soybean futures. Not so … ever. U.S. futures exchanges are a $610 trillion dollar a year marketplace where speculators — traders looking to profit — and hedgers, usually buyers and sellers of products or derivatives of products traded on the exchange, meet to establish price based on key ingredients like supply, demand, weather and war. And they are critically important in our everyday lives: If the markets don’t function fairly, everyone pays — from the trader who was clipped on some shady deal to the single mother of five struggling to See GUEBERT, pg. 6
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THE LAND — APRIL 1/APRIL 8, 2022
Radio listeners enjoyed visits from “The Neighbor Lady” Before there was all this virtual social Kansas. Her cheery voice became an media of today, farm women found a way expected visitor in both town and country to interact with each without leaving homes. Her 15-minute show soon expandtheir busy homes. ed to 50 minutes. At first she wrote a script, then somehow managed to do the Busy is hardly the correct description, longer programs live. It was as if she was unless one adds the word “extremely.” a neighbor coming over for a cup of coffee There were three hearty meals to preto share a visit. pare for a hardworking family and any hired help. Throw in a few morning and Since my grandmothers were regular FROM MY afternoon lunches (we’re talking more listeners to this program, both my mothFARMHOUSE than just a coffee break). er and mother-in-law grew up listening KITCHEN to The Neighbor Lady. My farmer and I But work didn’t stop in the kitchen. By Renae B. remember hearing it too. There was also laundry, house cleaning, Vander Schaaf plus a few outdoor chores which were not limited to gardening and chickens. Many of these farm homes did not have the luxury of electricity in 1941. A war was raging in most of the world. Although the United States had not officially entered the war yet, it was ever-present on everyone’s minds. The effects of the 1930’s weather and concurring economic distress were still very vivid in memory and spending habits. It was during those Great Depression years which made having a radio in the house a morale booster for these people that knew how to do without. Very few family members minded saving money to have a radio that would enliven their lives with comedy, drama, music and sports. It also gave them the current news and weather. The daily chores, the expense of gasoline, owning It was a forgotten memory until last year, when a and operating a vehicle kept many farm families friend gifted me with a dozen or so “Your Neighbor isolated from the world. The radio — with its proLady Books” published by WNAX and The Neighbor grams — added both mental stimulation and relax- Lady. Photos brought faces and names to the radio ation when newspapers and magazines did not fit in listeners. The books also contained recipes, of a tight budget. course. It was on July 14 in 1941 that WNAX Radio — The sense of neighborhood was established even located in Yankton, S.D. introduced Wynn Hubler as more with letters, helpful advice, winners for a variThe Neighbor Lady. Amazingly at her debut, she ety of contests (poems, the perfect meal), quotes was a young single woman who had been working radio neighbors had sent in. The names of those at the radio station. Her college major was in speech who were regular contributors became familiar. with a broadcasting emphasis. Her only apparent The earliest book in my collection comes from ties to agriculture was that she was born in Iowa. 1945. The first photo in it is of Wynn Hubler (now Hubler was an instant success with her radio pro- Speece) cutting the wedding cake with her newlygram which reached from Wyoming to Wisconsin, wed husband dressed in his sailor uniform. Yes, she clear up north to Canada, and all the way down to was an important family member to her listeners as they shared in the experiences of her daily life. Everyone understood her frustration when she had the house all sparkly clean for guests, when in came Save now with muddy children from playing outdoors. Her program was occasionally interrupted when Get the most OFF* weather warnings or major news happened. She was out of your lawn Your First right in the middle of giving out a recipe when the Application this spring. news of Adolf Hitler’s death interrupted her show. SCHEDULE YOUR The last program was broadcasted in 2005 — two APPOINTMENT TODAY! 1-833-912-3666 years before her she died at the age of 90. *Requires purchase of annual plan. Special price is for first Lawn application only. Requires purchase of annual plan, for new residential EasyPay or PrePay customers only. Valid at participating TruGreen locations. Availability of services may vary by geography. Not to be The letters printed in the books reflect the imporcombined with or used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Additional restrictions may apply. Consumer responsible for all sales tax. †Purchase of annual lawn plan required for Healthy Lawn Analysis, which is performed at the first visit. Guarantee applies to annual plan tance of her program: customers only. BBB accredited since 07/01/2012. ©2022 TruGreen Limited Partnership. All
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Dear Neighbor Lady, I don’t have any problems to solve today, but I would like to make a very small request. Knowing the neighbor ladies like I do, I’m sure they would be willing to help out. Robert has a little cousin. She is nine years old, but she can’t walk, and does not go to public school. She does her school work at home every day. She can’t run and play with other children. Would your neighbors like to help make this little girl happy this Christmas, by sending cards, letters, and any small gifts a nine-year old little girls would like. Let’s put joy in those long hours for this little girl this Christmas. .. A response from the young girl:
My dear Neighbor Lady and Radio Friends: I wish to say thanks and thanks again for the many lovely cards and gifts you sent me. I received over a hundred cards, besides gifts of books, hankies, candies, ribbons, puzzles, and many other things. My mother read every card to me and it made me very happy to hear from so many. It also made my mother happy and she gives her thanks to you all too. I can’t write to you all now, but I’ll try to write to everyone sometime soon. So thanks again from me and my mom to you all and my dear Aunt Louise. The neighborhood grew. Just 10 years into her radio program, her book included correspondence from neighbors in Hammond, Mont.; Arcadia, Neb.; Belle Fourche, S.D.; Gladstone, N.D.; Currie, Minn.; Rolfe, Iowa; and many other locations in the Midwest. Lives were made happier. Wynn Speece gave hints of her purpose in the many forwards she wrote in her books. “Let’s make our homemaking job an even greater happiness than it is, because it is done with love. God bless you, dear neighbor ladies, dear friends.. As I look through the “Your Neighbor Lady Books,” she still encourages me. There will be new recipes for me to try. I am seeing many helpful hints. One that I hope to remember came in from a listener in 1953 who lived near Bancroft, Neb.: for hard sugar, place in a pan and put in moderate oven. This will turn sugar into fine grain again. The Neighbor Lady was not the only program for women; it just happened to be on a radio station that was in my area. I have a few cookbooks (1941) by Jessie S. Young. Her radio program was called “Homemaker’s Visit.” It was on the radio station KMA. I have also have one called “Aunt Sammy’s Radio Recipes Revised” (1931). Apparently, Uncle Sam has a wife — Aunt Sammy. She was created by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Home Economics and Farm Radio Service. Her “Housekeeper Chats” programs began in 1926. Renae B. Vander Schaaf is an independent writer, author and speaker. Contact her at (605) 530-0017 or agripen@live.com. v
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Family cookbooks were filled with recipes and memories Nothing unites a group of women like It’s interesting to leaf through an oldcookbooks do from families and church. fashioned cookbook — especially if you study the back pages (like I did when I For the most part, cookbooks just take cheated at Map Skills class in the fifth up cupboard space. But they do bring grade). great joy when we find tantalizing recipes, circle them, then leave them in the Actually, that might show today. dark for all of eternity. In one church cookbook I found all I recently came across a treasure — a kinds of wisdoms: substitutions, herb family heirloom, really. It’s a book of reciguides, what to serve with various meats; TABLE TALK pes which belonged to my husband’s ways to use leftovers, quantities needed By Karen Schwaller to serve 100 people; sandwich fillings, grandmother — a kind, soft-spoken woman who was probably the most humeasy snacks, how to lose weight, freezing ble person I’ve ever known. (Maybe you prepared foods, removing stains from get that way when your lifetime of birthdays always washables, first aid tips, and locating scripture verslands on Christmas Day.) es to help feed our souls. The cookbook is a soft-covered three-ring binder In yet another church cookbook I found a section filled with yellowed and tattered pages of recipes called, “Kitchen Cosmetics.” There are recipes there she gathered from family and friends. Each recipe is for making facial cleansers, astringent, eye packs, written in her own handwriting, with citations of hair highlights and conditioner, cuticle and skin the sources for each and every one of them. softeners, and ways to slough off dry, scaly heel and Although she left us more than three decades ago, elbow skin … all using foods you find in the kitchen. her cookbook is still here, giving us further cause to It appeals to me very much that by using foods for remember her and all the love she put into everybeauty reasons, I can slather on the mayonnaise thing she made for her family. and avocado and never gain an ounce. There are interesting recipes in there. One is Mother Nature is a genius. called, “4-H Casserole.” Her “Butterscotch Pie” reciMy own mother has a cookbook filled with recipe pe is one that her grandchildren would love to taste cards in her handwriting. I didn’t appreciate it as I once again. Although some have tried, no one can grew up, but used it over and over to help feed corn make her butterscotch pie taste like she did. Her shellers. I certainly cherish it now — along with her recipes for “Pumpkin Pie” and “Eggless Plum Pudding” feature parenthesis next to them that say simply, “Momma.” She even has some unusual entries: recipes for To the Editor, easing arthritis and bad breath; for woodwork and window cleaners, getting postage stamps unstuck, When there is money to be made, cleaning the coffee pot or the kettle, and getting anything goes! bugs out of spring lettuce. Currently there are three private corporations (more expected) planning CO2 pipelines through the Midwest: Summit, Navigator CO2 Ventures (funded by Blackrock), and Archer Daniels Midland. Currently they feel that adjacent states of Iowa and South Dakota will allow eminent domain for those who do not want it on their land. Also, in South Dakota, if they do get an easement from a landowner and do not put in the pipeline, they can sell the easement to another company Send your letters to: without the consent from the landowner and use it Editor, The Land later. This eminent domain is no different than what Russia is doing to Ukraine right now — only 418 South Second St. using a different approach. Mankato, MN 56001 As I understand it, Minnesota currently does not allow eminent domain by a private company; but I e-mail: editor@thelandonline.com cannot believe that they would not find a way around this considering the amount of money at stake. The numbers that are being reported are All letters must be signed and accompanied between $400 million and $600 million a year with the brunt of it coming from taxpayers in various tax by a phone number (not for publication) credits and incentives.
patience with me as I learned to follow a recipe. I made cookbooks for our children a while back. For our daughter, I found a cookbook scrapbook of sorts which featured pages to hand-write recipes, along with pages for photos. I gathered up some recipes and wrote them in there, and invited her grandmothers to do the same. I also included photos of her cooking or baking as she was growing up. Our daughter says it’s one of her most prized possessions. I hope she passes it down to her daughter someday, with some of her own recipes stashed in there somewhere, and pages splattered with her own brand of love. When I made recipe books for our boys, I decided to type them up to save time, and included some cooking tips I thought young farmer chefs should know (which I gleaned mostly from my own personal School of Hard Knocks). I got more than halfway finished, when something went terribly wrong with the process, and I had to start over. About that time I might have needed a recipe for laptop computer reassembly following my machine being sandwiched between the farm yard driveway and my angry hammer. I settled for a margarita recipe, an ice pack and a recliner instead. Karen Schwaller brings “Table Talk” to The Land from her home near Milford, Iowa. She can be reached at kschwaller@evertek.net. v
Letter: Whose land is it? Beyond the most obvious and main point of property rights and eminent domain, there are the effects of the CO2 — which if it ever escapes, it becomes an asphyxiant just like what they use in slaughterhouses to put down animals. And at the high pressures that would be in the lines, if there was a leak, and being heavier than air, would stay on the ground and kill anything that would come in contact with it. Also, if it came into contact with water, it forms carbonic acid and the repercussions are endless if it would enter an aquifer or come into any drinking or surface water. Summit hired (former Iowa Governor Terry) Branstad — who during his time in office appointed two people to the Iowa Utilities Board. The IUB is the governing agency that grants eminent domain powers to these privately-owned companies if they feel the project serves a public purpose. What needs to be done in Minnesota is get the county commissioners in each county to hold a public meeting on this subject; and after getting the public’s input, do not issue a permit for these pipelines to pass through their county. Mike Handzus Lakefield, Minn.
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Davis soars with tome to the bald eagle Imagine your house from up higher. ing George Washington “The Bald Eagle: The Improbably Journey of America’s Bird” caused a kerfuffle: did From 5,000 feet, it would look like a by Jack E. Davis the back of the coin feasmall brick or scrap wood. Your vehicle, ture a golden eagle or a like a toy car. Trees, like stalks of broccoli c.2022, Liveright bald eagle? That story, and you, like a tiny scuttling insect run$29.95 and the differentiation, ning about. Imagine the breeze at 5,000 418 pages are just a small part of feet, a patchwork land beneath the what’s inside “The Bald clouds, and the awesome expansiveness Eagle.” of it all. Then let “The Bald Eagle” by ture, and many of the bird’s seven thouTHE BOOKWORM Jack E. Davis take you higher. sand plumes were used in “a language SEZ Indeed, author Jack E. Davis America does not have a “national bird.” of feathers” and other rituals. As for has a little something for every By Terri Schlichenmeyer those colonists, the eagle’s majesty bald eagle watcher — from taxWe have a national mammal and a and its hunting prowess were both onomy to etymology; cultural national tree; but, officially speaking, widely admired. Still, there was controversy, ideals to scientific facts; to shockthere is no national bird because nothing’s been and our country was independent for years ing tales from a time when eagles passed into law or proclamation. But that’s not the before the seal design was approved — and were prey of the most dangerous only indignity that a dignified bird like the bald with it, the eagle-as-symbol. predator of all. Those latter pages eagle has endured. are hard ones to read — as are the tales of nearEagle-watchers know that love wasn’t always Legend has it that Benjamin Franklin wanted a extinction; but Davis doesn’t let readers turn away given to the bird, however. Not once, but twice in turkey to be a national symbol; but that’s likely a from the harshest realities of history. To balance American history, the eagle was almost driven to myth, says Davis. Ben was probably joking, them, you’ll be glad for the tiny pebbles of distractalthough it’s true that he wasn’t too impressed with extinction. In fact, there was a time when they was ing minutiae and trivia that are scattered about. seen as brutes and thieves to be destroyed. Live the eagle. In the end, that’s okay. Others were, eveneagles were “inducted into service” during wartime. This is the kind of book you’ll want to read, and tually, almost by accident. Eagles were stolen, stuffed and studied; honored, then place on your shelf for later consultation. It’s It’s hard to believe that having the eagle on our revered and despised — all within the last 200 shareable, discussable, and very, very fascinating. If nation’s seal was ever even a question. Before the years. And today — finally — the eagle is protected. you keep a “To-Be-Read” list, you’ll want to put colonists came to North America, the eagle was a Back in 1932, the debut of the quarter coin featur- “The Bald Eagle” a little higher on it. powerful, important symbol in Native American culLook for the reviewed book at a bookstore or a library near you. You may also find the book at online book retailers. The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been reading since she was 3 years old and never goes anywhere without a book. She lives in Wisconsin with three dogs and 10,000 books. v
Can we trust markets? GUEBERT, from pg. 3
Answers located in Classified Section
pay the weekly grocery tab. Farmers and ranchers know this. In fact, today’s volatile wheat market means some rural grain purchasers only buy farmers’ grain when the Chicago futures market is open so the buyer can immediately transfer their ownership risk to someone else. That also means these purchasers don’t offer any farmer a market after 1:15 p.m. each weekday and not at all on the weekend. Almost every farmer or rancher will tell you that this is a highly risky, potentially costly failure to both you and them. So, no, we’re not going to run out of food. The real threat is that we’ll run out of markets we can trust. 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
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U.S. milk prices keep heading higher, but they need to This column was written for the marketA small gain in February’s All Milk ing week ending April 1. price could not offset sharply higher corn, soybean, and hay prices and The world sits on pins and needles over reversed five consecutive gains in the the war in Ukraine while hopes were USDA’s milk feed price ratio, though it dashed this week after Moscow hinted it was still above February 2021. would cut military operations near the Ukrainian capital after negotiators met in The USDA’s latest Ag Prices report Turkey. There was little evidence that shows the ratio at 2.07, down from 2.18 occurred and, in fact, Russian President in January, and compares to 1.80 in Feb. MIELKE MARKET Putin announced that exports of natural 2021. The index is based on the current WEEKLY gas would be halted April 1 unless buyers milk price in relationship to feed prices By Lee Mielke paid in rubles. for a ration consisting of 51 percent corn, 8 percent soybeans and 41 percent Meanwhile, President Biden alfalfa hay. In other words, one announced the largest release ever pound of milk would purchase 2.07 of the U.S. Strategic Petroleum pounds of dairy feed of that blend. Reserve, providing 1 million barrels per day starting in May and lasting for six months in an effort to The U.S. All Milk Price averaged $24.70 per cwt., soften high gas prices. up just 50 cents from January, but was $7.60 above Feb. 2021. U.S. farm milk prices keep heading higher, but they need to. The U.S. Department of Agriculture The national average corn price shot up to $6.10 announced the March Federal order Class III per bushel, up 53 cents from January, after gaining benchmark price at $22.45 per hundredweight, up a dime in January, and $1.35 per bushel above Feb. $1.54 from February, $6.30 above March 2021, and 2021. the highest Class III since Nov. 2020. The three Soybeans averaged $14.80 per bushel, up $1.90 month average stands at $21.25, up from $15.98 at from January, following a 40 cent jump in January, this time a year ago and $16.77 in 2020. and are $2.10 per bushel above Feb. 2021. Class III futures portend another $1.36 rise in Alfalfa hay averaged $214 per ton, up $3 from April to $23.81; May, $24.84; June, $24.66; July, January and $43 above a year ago. $24.38; August, $24.10; and September was at Looking at the cow side of the ledger; the $23.84. February cull price for beef and dairy combined The March Class IV price is a record high $24.82, averaged $77.90 per cwt., up $6.30 from January, up 82 cents from February, the previous high, and is $12.30 above Feb. 2021, and $6.30 above the 2011 a whopping $10.64 above a year ago. The three base average. month Class IV average is at $23.97, up from Dairy economist Bill Brooks, of Stoneheart $13.71 a year ago and $15.91 in 2020. Consulting in Dearborn, Mo., does not see any Dairy
MARKETING
Margin Coverage payment for the remainder of 2022. In the week ending Mar. 19, 64,100 dairy cows were sent to slaughter, down 900 from the previous week, but 1,800 head or 2.9% above a year ago. n The last week of March was a bit shy on USDA reports we regularly monitor but we did get Prospective Plantings and Grain Stocks data. There was added interest considering the higher input costs, primarily fertilizer, due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The higher fertilizer-demanding corn acreage was estimated at 89.5 million acres, down 3.87 million acres or 4 percent from last year and 2.5 million below the trade estimate, according to StoneX Dairy Group. Soybean acreage was estimated at a record 91.0 million acres, up 4 percent from a year ago, with acreage up or unchanged in 24 of the 29 estimating States. Cotton acreage was estimated at 12.2 million acres, up 9 percent. StoneX stated in its March 29 “Early Morning Update,” “Normally when we model our producer margin we have looked at the gross difference between feed costs and milk price. Given the recent increase of non-feed inputs impacting farmer margins recently, we have taken a dive into the net margin that producers may be experiencing in order to provide a clearer perspective.” “We have been expecting that the high Class III and IV prices should be able to offset the increases in input values. However, given the continued growth in feed, energy and labor costs, that may no longer be the case. The decline in Class III and IV See MIELKE, pg. 8
EPA approves 2022 Minnesota-specific dicamba restrictions ST. PAUL — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has given approval to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s state-specific use restrictions for three dicamba herbicide products during the 2022 growing season in Minnesota. The restrictions are aimed at curbing off-site movement of the products. The affected dicamba formulations are Engenia by BASF; Tavium by Syngenta; and XtendiMax by Bayer. These are the only three 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 is registering the three products for use in Minnesota in 2022 with the following additional restrictions: Date cutoff — No application shall be made south of Interstate 94 after June 12, 2022. North of Interstate 94, use is prohibited after June 30, 2022. Temperature cutoff state-wide — No applica-
tion 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 degrees. Forecasted temperature must be recorded at the start of the application. The product label with these EPA-approved Minnesota-specific restrictions will be available on the product manufacturer’s website (Bayer, BASF, or Syngenta). Check the company’s website to download the restrictions prior to application of any of these three dicamba products. The restrictions will also be promoted through the mandatory dicamba-specific training required for anyone applying one of the approved products. Compliance with these Minnesotaspecific restrictions and other restrictions listed on the product label is mandatory. Other federal requirements for the products which 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 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. In Minnesota, Engenia, Tavium, and XtendiMax formulations of dicamba are approved for use on dicamba-tolerant soybeans only and are restricted use pesticides. The dicamba products are only for retail sale to and use by certified applicators. Pesticide product registrations are renewed on an annual basis in Minnesota. This article was submitted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. v
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USDA: Total licensed dairy herds in the U.S. fell by 1,794 MIELKE, from pg. 7 (futures) prices will press on already tight margins,” StoneX warned. “Given the data that we have available we expect that the average sized dairy in the United States is likely experiencing a negative margin at the moment and will most likely continue to do so through the next year to year and a half.” Speaking in the April 4 “Dairy Radio Now” broadcast, broker Dave Kurzawski said the war in Ukraine is influencing the market because “the news cycle is hour-to-hour.” However, while a lot of the risk premium is “baked in,” the day-to-day fundamentals continue. The key take away in March, he said, was that “The availability of dairy products seems to be increasing, not decreasing.” The risks remain quite substantial as we progress beyond first quarter, he said. However, whether its cheese, butter, nonfat dry milk or whey, “there’s more product on offer in the United States today than there was a month ago,” and “while that doesn’t mean a bear market is looming, it does mean that price pullbacks can happen — for different reasons.” The key of course is what happens to milk production globally as well as in the United States; but Kurzawski warned, “There may be headwinds ahead on dairy prices.” n Tough economics have already taken a toll. The March 30 Daily Dairy Report says, “Relentless consolidation in the dairy industry persisted across the country last year as farms continued to get larger and cows became more productive.” “USDA data shows the total number of licensed dairy herds in the United States fell by 1,794 to 29,858, a 5.7 percent overall decline,” according to the Daily Dairy Report. “At the same time, cow numbers climbed 0.6 percent, or 56,000 head, to 9.448 million, and milk per cow rose 0.7 percent to 23,948 pounds.” That plentiful volume Kurzawski referred to drove prices lower this week but another part of the blame, according to StoneX, is “Chinese demand, or rather a fear that Chinese demand will be reduced as a result of their lockdowns.” Chinese imports are currently tracking 2.2 percent below last year through the first two months of the year, StoneX warned, plus, “The U.S. dairy herd reductions that we’ve been seeing, look to be transitioning to a growth stage.” n Chicago Mercantile Exchange cheese prices saw some ups and downs the last week of March. After jumping 14.5 cents the week before, the cheddar blocks fell to $2.17 per pound on March 29, then rallied to close April Fool’s Day at $2.295. This is up 2 cents on the week, 26.5 cents above their March 1
perch, and 52 cents above a year ago. After gaining 22 cents the previous week, the cheddar barrels fell to $2.16 per pound on March 30, but finished April 1 at $2.2525. This is a quarter-cent higher on the week, 31.75 cents above where they were on March 1, 74 cents above a year ago, and 4.25 cents below the blocks. There were seven sales of block on the week and 38 for the month of March, up from 16 in February. Barrel sales totaled 30 for the week and 108 for the month, up from 39 in February. Midwest cheesemakers tell Dairy Market News demand is strong to very strong. Customers were hesitant during the variant market movements in February and earlier this month, but as prices began to climb, buyers had to refill their pipelines ahead of further increases. Milk is available though some plants continue to deal with staffing and supply shortages. Plants that are running full, or near full, were clearing spot milk at discounts as low as $4 under Class mid-week. Cheese inventories are moving well. Western cheese makers say export demand remains strong as U.S. prices remain at a discount to internationally produced product. Purchasers in Asia are, reportedly, interested in buying loads to ship in late fourth quarter and early first quarter 2023. Domestic cheese demand is steady in retail markets, while food service demand continues to increase. Spot cheese availability is trending higher in the region. Port congestion and the shortage of truck drivers continues to cause delays. Cheese producers are running busy schedules to work through the available milk supplies but labor shortages and delayed production supply deliveries continues to prevent running at full capacity. CME butter got down to $2.70 per pound on March 31 but saw its April 1 finish at $2.71. This is down 8.5 cents on the week, 17.5 cents above the March 1 post, and 86.5 cents above a year ago. There were 27 cars sold on the week and 99 for the month, up from 69 in February. StoneX reminds us that domestic butter sales were up 15 percent in January and it will be interesting to see how February fares, with the higher prices, given that stocks were heavier than expected. Butter makers in the Central region say spring holiday demand has picked up a little later than expected. Production is busy however employment shortages are still being reported from multiple plants. Export demand remains but plants are pulled in two directions, says Dairy Market News, between international buying or growing stocks for seasonal fall demand in the domestic sector. Cream is “findable,” says Dairy Market News, but costs are ticking up week by week. As cream cheese and ice cream production increases, cream availability is not expected to increase near-term. Some
Midwestern butter producers continue to find it from Western sources but freight costs and limitations are deterring them. Western demand for cream is also strengthening as ice cream makers are increasing output and pulling heavily on cream supplies. Butter makers are internally utilizing cream loads to build inventories. Demand for butter is increasing in retail markets as grocers prepare for spring holiday demand. Food service demand is unchanged and export demand is strong, as internationally produced butter is being sold at a premium to U.S. loads. Butter makers are running busy schedules throughout the region, though some continue to cite labor shortages as preventing them from running at capacity, according to Dairy Market News. Grade A nonfat dry milk closed the week at $1.85 per pound, a quarter-cent lower, a penny below where it was on March 1, but 66 cents above a year ago. There were 22 trades on the week and 82 for March, up two from February. Dry whey closed April 1 at 61 cents per pound, down 11 cents on the week, lowest since Oct. 20, 14.25 cents below its March 1 position, and 5 cents below a year ago. CME sales totaled 15 for the week and 19 for the month, down from 30 in February. Higher dairy product prices are hitting consumers, the Analyst warned. IRI’s Inflation Tracker shows average dairy product prices were up 11 percent from a year ago in the latest week and “Dairy prices are now outpacing overall grocery,” as prices throughout the store are up 8 percent. n The Analyst reports the Global Dairy Trade auction will launch a new auction product called GDT Pulse, which will be a weekly auction. Whole milk powder is the first planned product to more regularly auction. Additionally, the dairy auction is considering holding daily auctions. In politics, the International Dairy Foods Association and National Milk Producers Federation submitted joint comments this week to the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service urging the agency to “improve nutrition security by updating school meal nutrition standards to encourage increased consumption of dairy in keeping with recommendations from the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans report and with leading health organizations.” In 2020, the federal Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee report found that a staggering 79 percent of 9- to 13-year-olds are not meeting the recommended intake of dairy foods and thereby underconsuming a variety of nutrients during childhood and adolescence, including potassium, calcium, and vitamin D. 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
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Products for pork industry are on the cutting edge By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus MANKATO, Minn. — I was patrolling the exhibit hall at the Minnesota Pork Congress always looking for something new … and different. The Pork Congress took place Feb. 15 and 16 in Mankato, Minn. I wasn’t disappointed in my search when I visited with Brad Hennen of Hennen Pig Chutes. It didn’t seem to matter to Hennen I wasn’t in the market for his product. He chimed in with his sales pitch all the same. “The primary objective is to improve the accuracy of the vaccination process,” he began. “As opposed to just jabbing the vaccinating gun anywhere in his body, the objective is to get that vaccination right behind the Photos by Dick Hagen pig’s ear where it’s supposed to Brad Hennen displays the Hennen Pig Chute which is designed to make innoculating be.” hogs easier and safer. Hennen explained the original concept came about four years ago when he was on that’s the reason we set it up and check it out before the National Pork Board Task Force — charged with we depart the premises.” trying to eliminate the many broken vaccination A Hutterite colony in South Dakota manufactures needles found in pork. “That doesn’t happen very the chutes. It was my good fortune that one of the often,” he admitted, “but even one in a million is 120 colony members was also at Hennen’s booth. “We buy times a year in our industry. So it’s a troubling issue; feeder pigs, 2,600 hundred at a time,” he said. “They and my objection was to figure out how to properly all get two vaccine shots in the softer part of the restrain the pig so that we could be more accurate in neck. That’s actually the law in this feeder pig busithe vaccination process.” ness. And broken needles are not tolerated, so that’s The chute in Hennen’s display looked like two why the law. So injury-free vaccinations are a must. stretched out metal containers with conveyor belts And this Pig Chute really makes a difference. When on each side and bolted into a metal base. “We funnel we’re unloading these 2,600 pigs and getting them pigs into these chutes through this six-foot conveyor ready for vaccinating, it’s a five-guy crew: three guys which allows the person, or team, doing the vaccinat- moving the pigs into the chutes and two doing the ing a clear shot at the animal’s neck.” vaccinating. We can actually get 3,000 pigs through this chute in an hour. We’re Hennen said the chute has generated a lot of intersaving at least one hour’s est at the shows he has attended. “I will deliver my time with each batch of eighth sale next week,” he said optimistically. “Sure, pigs. But you have to push still a little slow to adopt at this stage, but the ones them … nose to tail. already using the chute are providing some very good reviews. Some like it because of the improved More information can be accuracy; some because it’s less stressful on the pig; found at www.hennenpigsome because it’s less stress and injury on the person chute.com. Hennen’s phone doing the vaccinating. Many tell me it’s the fastest number is (507) 828-0276. way to get pigs vaccinated. Being able to see properly Hennen Pig Chutes run $6,000 for the whole unit is also important in raising which includes delivery, set up and training of the hogs and my next stop in crew. “Every finishing barn is a little different, so the exhibit hall was a visit each setup might be a little different,” Hennen with Pat Murphy of Algona, explained. “So I have to make certain that it works in Iowa. Murphy represents this guy’s barn. Even if I tell them I have a hog finONCE Animal Lighting — isher down in Texas who has run 3 million pigs Pat Murphy displays the a lighting company which through his Pig Chute already … that doesn’t mean ONCE LED lights which he produces LED swine and much if they haven’t seen it work on their farm. So says will reduce energy sav- poultry lights. ings of 40 to 50 percent.
Most anyone who uses electric lights is by now aware of LED lighting and its energy-saving qualities. Hog producers watching their budget are looking at lowering electrical costs in growing/finishing barns or farrowing and nursing facilities for newlyborn piglets. “These are rugged, robust lights that stand up to the rigors of washing, the dust, the humidity generally prevalent in livestock barns — especially hogfinishing facilities,” Murphy said. “They have an internal enclosed circuit board so moisture can’t get to them which is usually the number-one factor in diminishing lighting performance.” ONCE has been in business for seven years. Two See PRODUCTS, pg. 11
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ROCORI Kernza project is a valuable learning tool By TIM KING The Land Correspondent COLD SPRING, Minn. — Tamara Berger, agricultural instructor for the ROCORI consolidated school district, and her students have conducted cooking experiments with Kernza. “I personally have baked banana bread,” Berger said. “I decided to try it with 100 percent Kernza. The result was very dense and did not rise like regular wheat flour. A 50/50 loaf rose more. Then I compared them to a 100 percent wheat flour loaf. It was interesting to see the difference. Kernza has a much more grain-like flavor. I quite enjoy it, but everyone is different.” As a group, Berger says she and her students have tried Kernza pasta, pancakes, cookies, bread, tortillas; and she believes some doughnuts have been made. The cooking experiments are part of a larger ongoing project by Berger, her students, and a group of supportive community members to actually grow Kernza on a 16-acre field owned by the school district. “Kernza is the world’s first perennial grain,” Jen Wagner-Lahr, a member of the FFA Alumni and Supporters group, said. ‘It was developed by The Land Institute of Salina, Kan. Plant breeders at The Land Institute developed intermediate wheatgrass to produce a grain they now call Kernza. The Land Institute has worked very closely with the University of Minnesota’s Forever Green Program to further develop the crop — including varieties specific to Minnesota.” The Supporters group footed the bill for the project — including providing volunteer farmers John and Aaron Willenbring and a no-till drill, according to Berger. “The FFA Alumni and Supporters includes those who want to support the program, but might not necessarily be a ROCORI or FFA alumni,” she said. “However, they see the positive impact that students
can have so they are solely supporting the agriculture and FFA program. We are a newly reestablished chapter, so this is a new avenue we are exploring with the help of community, alumni and supporters.” Tyler Ratka, a junior and the chapter’s president, says he appreciates the educational aspects of the Kernza project. “It is great for the members to learn about crops and soil testing,” he said. “It will also be used in the future for classroom learning.” Ratka points out the Kernza was drilled into a harvested rye field. No herbicides were used on the rye since there are no approved herbicides for the grain. The variety in the FFA plot is MN Clearwater which was developed by the University of Minnesota to thrive in Minnesota. Ninth-grader Bethany Posch, the chapter’s reporter, says that chapter members were stretching themselves by taking on the Kernza project. “We have not planted crops in that size plot before; but we have planted a small garden and it grew well.“ Berger explained the chapter’s decision to learn about a novel agronomic crop in addition to their hands-on horticultural learning. “The chapter and alumni group collaborated, and decided we wanted to do something different than corn and soybeans,” she said. “Not that those are not important, but we are part of education and wanted this to be a learning opportunity for all. Cold Spring is also in a unique area where our nitrate levels in our groundwater are high, so this would not only be a new learning opportunity, but also help the community and environment. Kernza has an extremely deep root system which helps to pull those nitrates out of the water.” “I’d also add that this decision has afforded an opportunity for ROCORI students to interact directly with UMN agronomists that are working with Kernza, as well as our local SWCD staff,” WagnerLahr said. The Willenbrings planted the Kernza on Aug. 22, 2020. The students and the community attended the planting and used it as an educational event. Later, a Community Plot Day and Kernza pancake breakfast was held. “We had speakers, Kernza products available for
sale and to sample, and more educational activities to talk about soil and water health and how Kernza can impact that,” Berger said. “The pancakes were actually Kernza pancakes that Chris Pancakes cooked for us using their own pancake formula mix. It was not all Kernza, but you can tell a difference.” The Kernza came through the winter of 2020-21 … but so did the rye. “We did not have a harvest,” Posch said. “The rye that was there before we planted the Kernza overtook the Kernza and choked it out.” Wagner-Lahr points out there was a drought during the 2021 growing season, so the recently-planted Kernza had to compete for water with the well-established rye. “Our first year did not go as planned,” Berger admitted, “but we did come out with 15-and-a-half large round bales that went to supplement livestock feed. Berger, the FFA chapter, and the community members are not giving up on Kernza — even though their first attempt didn’t go as planned. In August they were back in the field drilling oats. “We will harvest the oats in the spring of 2022,” Berger said. “We are hoping that with the oats we can get rid of the rye and other weeds that are there and then start fresh by replanting Kernza in late summer of 2022. We hope to see what markets are available to us at that time, and there has even been discussion about using some of the Kernza flour in recipes for students to eat at ROCORI.” The oats were planted with five different treatments ranging from tilled to no-tilled to control plots where nothing was done to the rye. Berger says the variety of plot treatments will be educational for the community and club members. While everyone is waiting to see what will happen with the various small grain experiments, the gardening project will continue during the 2022 growing season. Posch says the gardeners hope to grow enough to freeze some of the harvest to eat during the colder months. The ROCORI school district serves three Minnesota towns whose names form the acronym ROCORI: Rockville, Cold Spring and Richmond. v
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Spring is time for alfalfa stand assessments FOLEY, Minn. — With our first 60-degree day in the books, it won’t be long before alfalfa stands start to green up. This means stand assessments are right around the corner. Stand assessments are necessary every year and can help prevent unwelcome surprises. For perspective, last year’s stand assessments for the Alfalfa Harvest Alert program started on April 28. For this year’s stand assessments, we will be looking for damage caused by last year’s drought along with the usual suspects. We had adequate snowfall throughout the winter which should help prevent winter injury issues. With the snow cover mostly melted off, keep a watchful eye on areas of pooled water. If temperatures dip back well below freezing, these areas may see stand loss due to suffocation. For stand assessments we need to focus on two parts: stem counts, and root and crown health. With stem counts, we usually measure this as stems per square foot. The relationship between stem
density and yield is constant, making this method reliable in estimating yield. The steps of the procedure are as follows: Mark off a 2-square-foot section in each area you take a count. Count only those stems 2 inches or taller. Divide your count by two and average across all section. This will get you to the necessary stems per square foot needed to check yields. Typically, stem counts over 55 stems per square foot indicates a good stand. In that condition we would expect you could lose some plants and still produce good yields. Whereas, with stem densities of 39 stems per square foot or less, we would expect yields in those stands to be low enough to consider replacing. When it comes to assessing stands visually, typically we would start from the top down. Looking at the tops of alfalfa plants, we look for symmetry of the buds coming from all sides of the crown. Asymmetrically plants indicate winter injury did occur and yield potential may be lower. At this point you will also want to check to see if the root system is up out of the ground. Alfalfa taproots which have
been pushed out of the ground by over an inch will most likely be short-lived during the spring — provided they don’t break off. Next, dig up plants from three or four representative locations in the field — including at least the top 6 inches of the taproot to examine. Cut the crown in half and examine the color and rigidity of the inside of the crown. You want to see a firm, off-white interior with little to no signs of rotting. Discolored and spongy crown interiors indicate rotting and a plant that may not live another year. When making decisions on whether to keep or replace a stand, keep in mind both steps in the assessment. This is especially important with marginal stands as stands with 40 stems per square foot may still yield — provided plant health is good throughout the field. Whereas the same stand containing plants with discolored crowns and asymmetric bud growth would indicate a potential reduction in yield and may need to be replaced. This article was submitted by Nathan Drewitz University of Minnesota Extension. v
Current ag economy makes trying new products easier PRODUCTS, from pg. 9 years ago they were purchased by Signify (the new name for the Phillips Lighting Company). “With this new ownership, we have access to ever-more creative thinking — both in our livestock lighting equipment and our marketing,” Murphy said. “We already have a lot of good customers … both in finishing barns and producers just doing the piglet business. We have producers in Canada, and pretty much across the American hog belt from east to west.” Murphy said farmers would have to hire locally for installation, but that is generally not a problem. Producers are pleased with the lower energy costs. “You should see a 40 to 50 percent savings in energy if you went from an incandescent to an LED bulb system,” he said. “Many electrical suppliers offer rebates to hog producers who upgrade to LED systems simply because that means less energy being consumed in their total grid. Our LED bulbs have a 50,000-hour warranty or five years.” Headquarterd in Plymouth, Minn., ONCE offers a premium-line heat lamp bulb which producers use in their sow barns for their young piglets. Another product they offer is the Bio-Shift — a UBC disinfectant chamber especially convenient for those small items that can’t go through a shower or a washing machine coming into a sow facility. Running these items through
the Bio-Shift unit decontaminates any viruses. Murphy explained there are the two different styles of ONCE LED lighting. “The one with the smaller heat sync is a 10-watt LED; the other taller heat sync is a 14-watt. The 14-watt produces 1,500 lumens; Lyle Lange the 10 watt 1,100 lumens.” The lights come with a dimmer which permits the producer to offer ‘sunrise to sunset’ lighting intensities. Or a producer can set the timer to shut off all lighting at a certain time; plus relight at a certain hour. “Our swine lights dim to red,” Murphy said. “The red spectrum that swine see in the light is a vision of night time. So you could dim to red at night and still go into your farrowing facility, walk through and look at your piglets. This keeps the piglets sleeping as you walk through.” I also had a chance to catch up with Lyle Lange of Lange Ag Systems. His entrepreneurial spirits fired up in 1980, so he’s had 42 years of experience improving the ease and life of hog producers across the Midwest. Based out of Willmar, Minn. Lange Ag Systems also has a warehouse and parts facility in Fairmont,
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Minn. “We market across America today and even a few overseas sales,” Lange said. “We like to say, ‘good products sell themselves.’ so it’s very important for us to pick quality products.” Lange said the company’s number-one selling item is its ventilation systems. “We have an installation crew that rigorously attends to every installation — knowing exactly how to set up the systems on each farm,” he said. With each system comes the teaching of every producer how the ventilation system should function. “And my guys know ‘exactly right’ is always a must,” he stressed. “There’s no such thing like, ‘well, that’s close enough’ in our operation.” “We do dairy barns; even a few poultry barns,” Lange went on to say. “And now we are doing a lot of silage storage systems with these bagger machines. And we do a big business with the grain bagger and grain unloader to livestock producers and grain farmers.” The current ag economy has supplied Lange Ag Systems with plenty of work. “Last year was the best in the history of our company,” Lange said. “We’ve got five more people working for us today than we did six months ago. I’ve a great staff of employees. My three kids and their spouses work in the business; also one of my brother-in-laws and his son. “I’m there every day because I totally enjoy my work,” Lange admitted as I said goodbye. “Don’t have any idea when I might retire. I love my work and our livestock farmers are absolutely the finest customers. My hobby is working with farmers and it is indeed a most wonderful hobby.” v
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FFA officers take lessons learned out to the world Our FFA issue offers a glimpse into the lives of the former state FFA officers from 25 years ago. This year we were able to get in contact with four out the six state officers from 1996-1997 group. They have moved all over the country from Alaska to Texas but pride in the FFA organization remains steadfast for them all. A big thank you to Laura (Klein) Richardson, Aaron Stegemann, Tyson Hill, Cory Buysse, Cindy (Mulert) Birchmeier and Patricia (Norman)
Carlson for taking time out of their busy schedules to chat about those FFA times and what they have been up to since those days. ON THE COVER: Front (left to right): Aaron Stegemann, Tyson Hill and Cory Buysse; back (left to right): Patricia (Norman) Carlson, Cindy (Mulert) Birchmeier and Laura (Klein) Richardson.
(Klein) Richardson found FFA support beyond agriculture By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer A keen interest in agriculture fostered Laura (Klein) Richardson’s interest in the FFA program. Richardson grew up in Fairhaven, Minn., a few miles from the town of Kimball. “My family had dairy cattle until I was in elementary school.” In high school, Richardson had the opportunity to work for other farms in the area. It was a natural progression for Richardson to join Kimball’s FFA, as it aligned with her passion for agriculture. “Kimball has always had a strong program.” Once Richardson joined FFA, she wanted to participate in as much as she could, taking advantage of all the leadership opportunities offered. In addition to serving as state FFA president, she was also Region 5 president, chapter president and Greenhand representative. “I was always involved.” Richardson also won the state FFA job interviewing contest. “The career development events were always
fun for me.” It was the public speaking and networking that were Richardson’s favorite aspects of FFA. With the love of both those elements, Richardson decided to run for state office her junior year. While she didn’t get an office that year, she did gain confidence and ran again her senior year. “I’m sure I was probably a lot more nervous than I can recall.” Richardson walked into that experience trying to enjoy the process, no matter what the outcome was. “What will be, will be attitude.” When it was announced that Richardson was selected as state FFA president, it was thrilling for her. “So exciting, really disbelief.” Looking back at her time as state president, it was those moments spent visiting chapters across Minnesota she enjoyed the most. “Seeing all the ways the FFA chapters were making a difference across the state.” During her time as president, she was also attending North Dakota State University in Fargo, N.D. where she obtained her undergraduate degree in special education. After graduation, Richardson moved to Alaska on a
whim and worked as an assistant principal there. She also obtained a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy studies, was a stay-at-home mom for nine years and now teaches in Palmer, Alaska. Richardson, her husband Todd, children Ella (12), Ian (11), Audrey (6) and Millie (5) live in Wasilla, Alaska. Her experience as a state officer taught her the ability to hone the skills needed to work with a variety of people. It also showed her that there are plenty of adventures that await you out in the world. The connections that Richardson made in FFA have been lifelong. When Richardson’s son Gabriel was stricken with a brain tumor and passed away in 2014, the kindness of her FFA friends was comforting in that difficult time. “The people came out of the woodwork with love and support.” She encourages any FFA member thinking of running for state office to embrace that opportunity. “What’s the worst that can happen? You’ve just had a whole lot of experience getting to know yourself well.” The skills you learn in FFA can help you throughout your career. “Take advantage of the diversity of opportunities in FFA.” v
Variety propelled Stegemann to state FFA vice president By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer Aaron Stegemann’s foray into FFA began in Lakefield, Minn. “I was very active in 4-H when I was younger.” Stegemann participated in the general livestock judging and public speaking events. His older brother Mike was active in FFA and was state treasurer in 1993-94. In high school, FFA became a great fit for Stegemann as he was looking to get involved in something that wasn’t sports-related. “I am very competitive and am driven to win and I’m not very athletic.” Being a part of the Heron Lake-Okabena-Lakefield chapter of FFA allowed Stegemann the chance to compete differently. And compete he did, participating in everything from parliamentary procedure to meat judging to floriculture. The meat judging allowed Stegemann to better understand that industry, experiencing it first-hand. “I got to spend time at a meatpacking plant in Windom, Minn.”
The floriculture experience for Stegemann was filled with quite the curve. “At the region competition, I called a tulip, a rose.” Through hard work and great coaching by FFA advisor Louise Worm, he became the national FFA floricultural champion. Stegemann served as chapter president but wanted to be a part of the state FFA leadership team just as his brother had. “Based on the fact that my brother went through that experience.” Stegemann saw the impact that his brother made during his state officer time. “I had a lot of encouragement from both my FFA advisors (Louise Worm and Keith Place).” The state officer selection process was quite an experience. “I remember it being a very rigorous process.” When it was announced that Stegemann was the FFA state vice president, “I was thrilled to have that opportunity to be a state officer.” It was the team of people that he got to work alongside that made it a wonderful experience. “It was just a combination of great people.” Some of Stegemann’s greatest memories as a state FFA officer were networking and collaborating with
state officers from other states. “I built some friendships that lasted some time.” Stegemann attended the University of Minnesota where he graduated with a degree in agricultural and food business management. He then went on to work for John Deere for 10 years. “I got to see agriculture in different parts of the world.” He also got his master’s of science degree from Purdue University in ag economics and a master’s of business administration from Indiana University. He was recruited to work for Polaris Industries for a position in Medina, Minn. He has been with the company for 10 years and is the vice president of commercial utility vehicles. Stegemann and his wife Jody have two children: Hannah, age 12, and Charlie, age 10. The experience of being a state officer taught Stegemann valuable skills he carries with him today. “Public speaking is one of the biggest skills that I utilize on a daily basis.” The ability to lead a team See STEGEMANN, pg. 14
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Prom and public speaking two of Buysse’s FFA memories By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer Raised on a corn, soybean and pork production farm near Tracy, Minn., Cory Buysse has always had a love for agriculture. That lead him to follow in his brother Chad’s footsteps by joining FFA in high school. Buysse saw the connections and relationshipbuilding opportunities in FFA and decided he wanted to be part of the organization. Buysse served as chapter secretary, president and region secretary. Buysse decided to run for a state officer position because of the leadership experiences those positions brought. “To be able to have an influence on the FFA foundation.” State officer interviews weren’t the only thing Buysse was involved in during that weekend. “I had prom the night before the interviews.” Being a little preoccupied and tired from prom may have aided Buysse in staying relaxed. “I didn’t know
what I was getting into with the interview process.” He was also thrilled to see some familiar faces there as he knew a few of the fellow officer candidates from various FFA events he was involved in. “I had the chance to meet Aaron (Stegemann) at Greenhand Camp.” When Buysse’s name was announced as state secretary, he was filled with excitement. “I was surprised.” During his time as a state officer, Buysse attended South Dakota State University in Brookings, S.D. where he majored in agronomy. (Fellow state officer Cindy Mulert also attended SDSU. In addition to Mulert, there were a few South Dakota state officers who were also attending college there. Buysse had gotten to know them when attending FFA state officer camp.) Buysse’s favorite memories as a state officer were the times spent on the road, enjoying the moments. “It’s some of those road trips you did with fellow officers,” he said. “Agriculture is extremely small at times.” That was evident during Buysse’s state officer years and still
remains true today. “I’ve always stayed in agriculture.” Buysse lives in Nerstrand, Minn. and is a Brevant Retail Development Leader. The skills that he obtained during his time as a state FFA leader have allowed him to excel in his career thanks to being confident in public speaking. “The ability to speak comfortably in a group.” That all began as a state officer when at age 19 and he was speaking in front of 2,000 people at the FFA convention. In addition to his job with Brevant, Buysse also utilizes skills he learned on the farm growing up. “I’ve also got a side woodworking business.” He started North by South Woodworking two years ago. This business allows Buysse to use his creative side to craft everything from cutting boards to bar counters, working with both residential and commercial customers. For Buysse, it was the whole experience from running for state office to his time as secretary that he holds dear. He encourages anyone interested in running to go for it. “It’s a time I look back at very fondly.” v
Hill’s FFA skills have taken him around the world
By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer “I was pretty much a small-town city kid.” Tyson Hill may not have grown up on a farm, but he knew a bit about agriculture as his father worked in that industry and he recognized that FFA was a great organization to be a part of. The opportunities that abound in FFA led Hill to join the organization. The Willmar, Minn. chapter had members who served in various capacities in region and state offices. “We always had good representation.” While in FFA, Hill held several positions including chapter president. “I enjoyed being a part of the orga-
nization.” That led Hill to want to make a difference on the state FFA level and he decided to run for an office. Hill recalled attending the state convention was always a good time — even more so when he pursued a state office. When Hill was named state FFA treasurer, joy followed. “I remember elation and surprise.” In addition to being excited about becoming a state officer, Hill was honored to serve as a state officer with a great group of people. “I definitely knew most of them.” Hill fondly recalls some of his favorite memories from being state FFA treasurer were the times spent with the officer team. “Surrounding yourself with good people.” Hill still stays in contact with many of his fellow state officers to this day. While serving as state FFA treasurer, Hill attended
North Dakota State University in Fargo, N.D. where he majored in industrial engineering. After graduation Hill joined the Navy and served seven years in active duty. During that time was stationed in Florida, Georgia and Maryland and was also deployed to Iraq. He then became a Navy reservist and went on to do project management contractor work supporting the Navy. In 2012 he was deployed to Afghanistan. He has worked in systems engineering, software development and is now in cyber security for TransUnion. He and his wife, Kelly, reside outside of Austin, Texas with their two children. His service to our country and subsequent work in software development and cyber security has taken Hill abroad and all over the United States. He attriSee HILL, pg. 14
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State Sentinel (Mulert) Birchmeier is still involved in FFA By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer “I grew up on a beef/calf farm near Owatonna (Minn.).” Cindy (Mulert) Birchmeier enjoyed all things agriculture in her youth which included ag organizations. “We were a very active family in 4-H and FFA.” She participated in public speaking and beef judging. Owatonna high school had/has a strong animal science/ag department and FFA involvement. “A very active FFA chapter, historically.” Birchmeier served as a chapter officer and region seven president before embarking on her journey to a state office. She saw running for state office as the culmination of her FFA career. When it was announced that Birchmeier was state sentinel she was thrilled. “Pure excitement. I worked so hard for this.” Her family was in attendance, which made the moment even more special. “I really appreciated all that support from my family.”
Some of Birchmeier’s best memories from her time as a state office were the Business Industry and Education Tours. “I remember doing those tours, meeting students.” Her time working with the high school FFA members was important. “Every high schooler needs a sense of belonging.” She saw students finding that sense of belonging in FFA. Traveling across Minnesota as a state officer, Birchmeier witnessed the beauty and strength of rural communities. “The traditions, the history and sense of family are really strong in rural areas.” During her time as state sentinel, Birchmeier was a student at South Dakota State University in Brookings, S.D. After that year she transferred to the University of Wisconsin - River Falls where she obtained a degree in agricultural business with a minor in animal science. After graduation, Birchmeier began her career with farm credit, working for AgStar. It was during that time that she met her husband, Darron, at a National Agri-Marketing Association competition. In 2005 Birchmeier obtained a master’s degree in agribusiness from Kansas State University.
Birchmeier and her husband live in Westphalia, Mich. with their three children: Blake (16), Alex (12) and Hailey (6). She is the senior vice president of regional credit at GreenStone Farm Credit Services in East Lansing, Mich. In her position, she utilizes skills from her FFA state officer days. “Leadership skills, doing the right thing and being involved.” The confidence gained in public speaking is a big asset to her today. “I do that all the time in my current job.” She encourages anyone interested in a state FFA officer position to work hard and take the challenge. “It’s such a special opportunity to get connected to the business and agricultural world. It opens many doors.” While it may have been 25 years since Birchmeier held an FFA office, she still gives back to the organization which provided her with so many wonderful memories. She is the Greenstone Farm Credit Services representative for the Michigan FFA Foundation. Maintaining that connection is special for Birchmeier as she continues to see the value FFA plays for so many. “It gives agriculture a voice.” v
(Norman) Carlson brought community to FFA communications By KRISTIN KVENO The Land Staff Writer Growing up in the quaint town of Hanska, Minn., Patricia (Norman) Carlson’s interest in FFA began by hearing about her older cousins’ positive experience in the New Ulm FFA chapter. When it was her turn to join the organization, she was impressed with the chapter’s strong showing at the state level. “The New Ulm program was very involved.” Carlson served as chapter vice president for two years and had her sights on revamping the state FFA newsletter and decided to run for reporter. “I had always had a goal to shift the state newsletter to more chapter involvement. My goal was the state reporter position.” Going through the election process was a good experience for Carlson. “You learn to look at yourself. I had to be enough even if I didn’t get an office.” When it was announced that Carlson was state reporter, disbelief was her initial reaction. “Honestly, BACKED BY A YEAR-ROUND
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just shocked. This can’t be real.” Once in the role as reporter, Carlson enjoyed getting to know fellow state officers as well as her time at the FFA camps. She fulfilled her goal of changing the feel of the state FFA newsletter. Carlson was grateful that FFA advisor, Jim Ertl was receptive to this change. “Mr. Ertl was very excited about it.” The newsletter shifted its focus to chapter involvement with an emphasis on community. This change by Carlson highlighted the good that the chapters were doing and illuminated many members that were doing important things in FFA and beyond. Carlson went to the University of Minnesota during her time as state officer. She left school after that to come home and care for her Grandma who had cancer. She then went on to work in management roles at Casey’s convenience store for four years. Caring for others has always been important to Carlson. She spent several years working with children with autism. She coached Special Olympics bowling, basketball, softball, track and field and unified bowling. She also set up all the fundraising efforts in New Ulm for Special Olympics for 10 years. Carlson is currently working at 3M in Hutchinson, Minn. where she’s involved in the production of electrical tape. She lives on a farm near Stewart, Minn. with her boyfriend, William Shuck. When thinking back to her time as a state officer, Carlson points out the organization promotes togetherness. “It teaches you how important community is.” In addition, working with fellow FFA members allowed Carlson to see the value of helping others. “In dealing with members of the FFA, I learned to be compassionate and listen. There’s nothing more rewarding than to help someone else out.”
What would Carlson tell a current FFA member thinking of running for a state office? “To look inside themselves and why they’re running for office.” She also believes in sticking with that goal. The time spent in FFA allowed Carlson to develop that passion for helping others, the importance of giving back to your community, and those qualities she holds on to, to this day. “It was one of the best experiences of my life.” v
STEGEMANN, from pg. 12 and be a collaborator are both essential in FFA as well as throughout his career. His advice to current FFA members is to go for those opportunities in the organization. “Without a doubt, take that chance, give it a shot.” v
HILL, from pg. 13 butes the skills he learned during his time in FFA that have helped him in his career. “The biggest was learning leadership. The ability to adapt, to be coachable, to lead.” His advice for those currently in FFA is to take those opportunities to pursue leadership roles. “The experience alone strengthens you. It’s a great steppingstone.” From Wilmar to Austin and everywhere in between, Hill has taken what he gleaned from his time in FFA and put those proficiencies to use in everything he’s accomplished — from serving our country to working in cyber security. Hill is grateful for the memories from his time in FFA, the friendships he forged, and the opportunities which have come about from the skills he obtained during his time in the organization. v
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Livestock transportation safety requires caution at all times Part of the National Ag Safety Awareness Program is a focus on safety around livestock — including livestock handling and transportation. Stressed livestock are more likely to injure themselves, their handlers and are more difficult to work with. Providing stockmanship training for workers handling livestock is key to preventing injuries. Stockmanship is a practice which promotes posiSWINE & U tive animal handling and is By Diane DeWitte important for both animal and caretaker safety. It reduces stress, increases productivity, and reduces potential injuries on the farm. The Upper Midwest Agriculture Safety and Health Center (UMASH) has resources developed to promote and teach stockmanship for caretakers and managers of all animal species. Visit umash.umn.edu/farm-safety to learn more. Considering production across the different phases, from the movement of replacement females, weaned pigs, or marketing of finishing, and culled breeding stock, a conservative estimate for the total number of pigs in transport on any given day in the United States adds up to over one million. More often than not, those several thousands of transporters can expect to have a typical day with no major issues. These individuals will have completed a livestock transport certification program, Pork Checkoff’s Transport Quality Assurance, and are prepared to safely handle and haul these animals. Despite following proper procedure and the rules of the road, accidents do happen. Keep current contact information Having emergency contact information readily accessible for producers and employees is the first step to prepare for accidents, breakdowns or delays. Producers who have participated in Common Swine Industry Audit or had a Pork Quality Assurance Plus (PQA+) Site Assessment know that having this information up-to-date is a requirement of certification. Just as producers should keep copies of this information in the office, livestock haulers should also have those emergency contacts on hand. Similar to an on-farm emergency response plan, the names, addresses and phone numbers for the producer, police, fire, ambulance and herd veterinarian should be included with the pigs being transported. Additional information, such as the company, destination or harvest plant dispatch, insurance provider, and roadside assistance will be needed when dealing with a transport issue. Roadside traffic incidents, no matter the severity, cause added stress to drivers and livestock alike. Keeping up-to-date
UniversityofMinnesota
EXTENSION
SWINE &U
copies of these contacts, in the cab and on paper, can alleviate the added anxiety and ensure key contacts aren’t forgotten during the scramble of dealing with an incident. Accidents happen. What should you do? Pork producers and transporters have accepted numerous responsibilities in their profession — with biosecurity, pork quality and animal health and wellness being closely tied to transportation. In the event where a truck driver is involved in a traffic incident, these responsibilities — in addition to human safety, property, and public perception of the industry — will be put to the test. For accidents occurring on public roadways involving other vehicles, the first priority is providing safety and attention to all parties involved. Alerting the authorities, and exchanging information are also initial steps to take. When transporting livestock, there are considerations that must be taken into account beyond those typical of a non-commercial accident: Alert emergency operator about size, number and condition of pigs on board, as well as the status of any loose animals or hazards that may influence public safety. Place emergency warning devices to alert other traffic of accident scene. Contact harvest plant and the pig farmer with details and updates of the incident. Herd any loose pigs from road away from traffic and provide protection and comfort. Take pictures of the accident scene. Include road conditions, vehicle position, damage and other views for documentation later reference. Refer media to first responders in charge. Livestock emergency response trailers available The Minnesota Pork Board and Region 5 of Homeland Security Emergency Management created emergency response trailers for use in situations where a transporter has a roll-over or some type of accident requiring additional assistance controlling livestock on board or loose animals at the scene. These trailers, located throughout Southern Minnesota in Adams, Buffalo Lake, Fairmont, Granite Falls, Pipestone, Sleepy Eye and Worthington are equipped with livestock panels, sorting boards, chains and other equipment necessary to provide safety for both animals and traffic alike. If a livestock transporter needs assistance with controlling loose animals, requesting one of these trailers can be done by contacting 911 or other emergency response officials. Once one of these trailers is deployed, responders will be able to provide brief training to assist transporters in
securing an accident scene. Key considerations for safe driving Weather — One key consideration not only for animal safety and welfare, but safe transport, is weather. Throughout a typical year in the upper Midwest, producers experience temperature fluctuations ranging from both ends of the extreme and all forms of precipitation. In the interest of keeping pigs on the trailer for the shortest amount of time reasonable, up-to-date forecasts and communication with the processing plant or destination will be vital in order to avoid delays or detours. Fatigue — The nature of working in pork production means the scope of daily tasks extends beyond a normal work day. Intense and long hours can often lead to fatigue, and individuals suffering from fatigue who get behind the wheel pose a significant threat to human and animal safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 100,000 reported crashes are caused by drowsy or fatigued drivers annually. Signs of fatigue can include slower reflexes, an inability to focus or keep eyes open or missing road signs, exits, landmarks etc. Haulers must be able to identify these different symptoms and be proactive in addressing them before transporting livestock. In order to prevent fatigue, understand your body and get enough sleep. Seven and a half hours is generally recognized as the amount of sleep required by an average adult. However, some people may need a little more or little less to function at normal capacity. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by drinking plenty of fluids, eat a balanced diet and get regular exercise. Healthy individuals are better able to fight off illness and perform under the stress. Don’t be afraid to take breaks or ask for a substitute driver. Fresh air, stretching and brief periods of activity can provide energy and increased attentiveness. If a driver feels they are unable to safely drive, they should pull over and alert company and destination dispatch of the situation. Distracted driving — An emerging epidemic is taking its toll on the nation’s roadways in the form of distracted driving. Between the increasing capabilities of cell phones with texting, social media and other apps, complicated infotainment systems found on dashboards or the hundreds of other things transporters try to do or think about, it’s easy to see how drivers have become almost absent from the task of driving. Since 2015, it is estimated the number of roadway accidents causing fatalities directly linked to disSee SWINE & U, pg. 18
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MARKETING
Grain Outlook Corn acres projected to drop 4 percent The following marketing analysis is for the week ending April 1. CORN — The market volatility continues as prices were swayed by headlines out of Ukraine and Russia and then we added in the surprisingly bullish corn acreage report. Corn dipped to the lower side of the monthly range early in the week when Russia said they were going to reduce attacks in Ukraine with May and July corn briefly locked down the daily 35-cent limit. When no deescalation was observed within 24 hours, prices rebounded to where they began the week. Then came the Prospective Planting and Grain Stocks reports on March 31 which shocked corn PHYLLIS NYSTROM traders with a significantly CHS Hedging Inc. friendlier corn acreage number St. Paul than was anticipated. The grain stocks report was a non-event. The Prospective Planting report showed a year-toyear slash of 3.86 million acres to 89.5 million acres (a 4 percent decline) expected to be planted to corn this year versus 92 million estimated and below even the lowest trade expectation. This would be the lowest U.S. corn acreage in five years and the fourth year in a row the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s number was outside the range of trade guesses. The February USDA Outlook Conference’s projection was 92 million acres. Last year U.S. farmers planted 93.4 million acres of corn. Minnesota’s corn acres will reportedly be down 600,000 this year to 7.8 million and soybean acres up 350,000 this spring. Iowa’s corn acreage is the lowest since 2005 with a 300,000 acre decline this year to 12.6 million acres. Illinois corn acres are expected to fall 300,000 acres to 10.7 million, and North Dakota is expected to plant 500,000 fewer corn acres this year. U.S. hay acres were pegged at their lowest since 1907! March 1 corn stocks were pegged at 7.85 billion bushels, up 2 percent from last year, with 52 percent on-farm (4 billion bushels) and 48 percent (3.77 billion bushels) held in off-farm storage. The on-farm stocks are up 1 percent from last year and off-farm stocks rose 3 percent from last year. This compares with the average trade estimate of 7.88 billion bushels and 7.7 billion bushels last year on March 1. The stocks number has not come in below the average trades guess for the last three years. This year’s stocks are the second lowest in six years.
Cash Grain Markets corn/change* St. Cloud $7.05 +.12 Madison $7.28 +.23 Redwood Falls $7.30 +.18 Fergus Falls $7.18 +.18 Morris $7.22 +.07 Tracy $7.22 +.12
soybeans/change* $15.51 $15.59 $15.49 $15.64 $15.64 $15.54
-.61 -.65 -.65 -.65 -.65 -.60
Financial Focus Try this 6-step budget check-up
Every year, about 150 million households file their federal tax returns. For many, the process involves digging through shoe boxes or manila folders full of Average: $7.21 $15.57 receipts; gathering mortgage, retirement, and investment account statements; and relying on computer Year Ago Average: $5.21 $13.54 software to take advantage of every tax break the Grain prices are effective cash close on April 5. code permits. (IRS.gov, 2021) *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period. It seems a shame not to make the most of all that effort. Ukraine did export its first corn train to the west Tax preparation may be the in the last week. Reports were circulating that only time of year many houseUkraine was in talks with Romania to use their Black Sea port to ship grain exports. I heard the holds gather all their financial rail gauge between the two countries is different information in one place. That which could make this shipping alternative more makes it a perfect time to take a difficult. Adding to Ukraine’s export troubles are critical look at how much money MARISSA reports that Russia mined areas of the Black Sea, is coming in and where it’s all JOHNSON and some had drifted into waters off Turkey and going. In other words, this is a Profinium Romania. Military diving teams from Turkey and great time to give the household Wealth Management Romania were disarming the mines. Russia is con- budget a checkup. Advisor sidering demanding payment terms for several A thorough budget checkup commodities, including grain and crude oil, to be involves six steps. made in rubles. Germany is making emergency Creating some categories — Start by dividing plans to ration natural gas supplies in case Russia expenses into useful categories. Some possibilities: shuts off or disrupts the supply chain. Russia home, auto, food, household, debt, clothes, pets, accounted for 55 percent of Germany’s natural gas entertainment, and charity. Don’t forget savings and imports last year. Ukraine’s president of the investments. It may also be helpful to create subcatUkrainian Agrarian Confederation expects their egories. Housing, for example, can be divided into spring planting of corn, soybeans and sunflowers mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintewill fall at least 30 percent with production suffernance. ing at least a 40-45 percent decline. UkrAgroConsult Following the money — Go through all the says Ukraine has started planting on at least 15-20 percent of spring crop acres. Their Agricultural receipts and statements gathered to prepare taxes Minister estimated 11.9 million acres will be plant- and get a better understanding of where the money ed with sunflowers this year, down from 16.5 mil- went last year. Track everything. Be as specific as lion acres last year. It’s estimated that Russian possible, and don’t forget to account for the cost of a latte on the way to the office each day. troops have mined about 50,000 hectares. Projecting expenses forward — Knowing how The weekly ethanol report wasn’t what you want to see with slightly lower production but stocks that much was spent per budget category can provide a swelled to 101-week highs and near-record levels. useful template for projecting future expenses. Go Weekly production decreased 6,000 barrels per day through each category. Are expenses likely to rise in to 1.04 million bpd. Ethanol stocks jumped 381,000 the coming year? If so, by how much? The results of barrels to 26.5 million barrels. Gasoline demand fell this projection will form the basis of a budget for the to an eight-week low. Crush margins fell 8 cents to a coming year. positive 8 cents per gallon. This isn’t what you want Determining expected income — Add together to see at a time when gasoline demand usually all sources of income. Make sure to use net income. begins to climb through the summer. High gasoline Doing the math — It’s time for the moment of prices at the pump are affecting consumers’ demand. Production is still running slightly above what is truth. Subtract projected expenses from expected needed to hit the USDA’s corn for ethanol usage, but income. If expenses exceed income, it may be necesthe increasing stocks are concerning. News that sary to consider changes. Prioritize categories and See NYSTROM, pg. 17
See JOHNSON, pg. 18
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.
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We may have seen the highs of soybean prices NYSTROM, from pg. 16 President Biden is considering releasing 1 million bpd of Strategic Petroleum Reserves per day over several months pressured crude oil prices in the latter half of the week. It was rumored that up to 180 million barrels may be released which would account for nearly one-third of the reserve. Another option to battle high costs at the pump the administration is considering is allowing the sale of E15 throughout the summer. Weekly export sales for corn were humbling at 25.1 million bushels vs. the 65 million bushels we’ve averaged over the last three weeks. We are still above the 15.4 million bushels of sales needed per week to reach the USDA’s 2.5 billion bushel export outlook. Total old crop export commitments are 2.1 billion bushels, down 18 percent from last year when the USDA is predicting a 9.2 percent year-over-year export reduction. New crop sales this week were 11.3 million bushels to bring total 2022-23 sales to 95.5 million bushels compared to 78.7 million bushels last year at this time. Weather forecasts for the United States look cool and slightly wet for the first half of April. While there is no correlation between weather during this time frame and final production, it does suggest we won’t have an aggressive start to this year’s planting. The United States usually has 20 percent of corn acreage planted by the end of April. Brazil’s first corn harvest was 62 percent complete as of March 29 vs. 58 percent on average and 59 percent last year. Their safrinha corn planting was 99 percent complete vs. 93 percent on average and 96 percent last year. The safrinha corn planting is off to a good start. APK-Inform expects Ukraine will produce 14.8 million metric tons of wheat this year, down from 32.3 mmt last year. Corn production is projected at 18.5 mmt vs. 42.1 mmt last year. It’s estimated that Ukraine has planted 988,000 acres (400,000 hectares) of spring crops as of the end of March. Ukraine’s deputy minister of agriculture believes they have 13 mmt of corn and 3.8 mmt of wheat to export, but logistics is making it nearly impossible. They are in talks to use Romania’s port on the Black Sea at Constanta. Brazil’s safrinha corn crop has gotten off to a decent start and we may see its estimate creep up if weather conditions hold. The Buenos Aires Grain Exchange rated Argentina’s corn crop at 32 percent good/excellent, up 1 percent from last week, with 30 percent of the crop mature and harvest at 14 percent complete. Outlook: This week’s USDA reports reinforce the need for the market to do its job of attracting more corn acres and rationing old crop supplies. We can’t afford weather problems anywhere this year. The events in Ukraine will remain a significant focus until further notice, but without any fresh input, the
MARKETING news tends to get stale at times. The next tier of influence includes U.S. spring planting weather, safrinha pollination in Brazil, China’s need to buy corn to replace Ukrainian purchases, and the huge net length that funds are carrying. High volatility will likely be a constant in the next few months. If we see more breaks in energy or soybeans, the upside in corn could be limited; however, if events escalate in Ukraine or weather casts doubt on U.S. progress, new highs can’t be ruled out. December 2022, 2023, and 2024 corn contracts made new contract highs this week at $6.93.75, $6.22.75, and $5.62.25 per bushel, respectively. For the week, May corn fell 19 cents to $7.35, July was 13 cents lower at $7.21.75, and December rallied 10 cents to $6.88 per bushel. SOYBEANS — Soybeans have not been as directly affected by the events in Ukraine as have corn and wheat since Ukraine is not a significant exporter of soybeans. Soybeans did react negatively to the shortlived hope of a ceasefire, but the negative USDA reports on March 31 slammed prices lower for the week. It is not common for soybean acres to exceed corn acres. The grain stocks report was viewed as neutral. Soybean acres this year were pegged at a record 91 million acres on the March 31st report which is up 3.8 million acres or 4 percent year-on-year. Last year we planted 87.2 million acres and the average trade estimate was 88.7 million acres. At the USDA February Outlook Conference, they were using 88 million acres. Soybean acres have been below the average trade estimate in 12 of the last 15 years. Iowa’s soybean acres are expected to be the highest since 2005 with a 300,000 increase in acres to 10.4 million acres. Illinois acres are estimated to increase 400,000 acres to 11 million, Minnesota up 350,000 acres to 8 million, and Missouri up 400,000 acres. North Dakota’s soybean acres are estimated to drop 250,000 acres this year to 7 million acres. Soybean stocks on March 1 were up 24 percent from last year at 1.93 billion bushels. This was near the average trade estimate of 1.9 billion and well above last year’s 1.56 billion bushel March 1 stocks. On-farm stocks were 750 million bushels (39 percent of stocks), up 26 percent from last year. Off-farm stocks at 1.18 billion bushels (61 percent of stocks) were 22 percent higher than last year. The stocks number has been above the average trade guess in 9
of the last 15 years and now in all of the last six years. The investment bank Itau BBA expects Brazil’s soybean acres this year will only increase by 0.5 percent — the slowest growth in 15 years due to the high cost of converting pastureland. Brazil planted 100.5 million acres to soybeans in 2021-22. Brazil’s soybean harvest was 76 percent complete as of March 29 vs. 69 percent on average and 67 percent last year. Cofco was granted a 25-year concession, which options to extend it, to build a new grain terminal in Brazil at the Santos port. It is expected to be operational by 2026 and would bring Cofco’s Brazilian port capacity to 14 mmt. Weekly export sales were very good at 48 million bushels for old crop. This brings total commitments to 2 billion bushels and down just 9 percent from last year. We only need to average 2.5 million bushels of sales per week to hit the USDA’s 2.09 billion bushel export forecast. New crop sales were 2 million bushels, bringing total commitments to 300 million bushels vs. 193.7 million bushels last year. Argentine is raising a warning flag over potential diesel shortages that may affect corn and soybean harvest. Argentina is the world’s largest exporter of meal and soyoil and the second-largest corn exporter. The BAGE’s rating for Argentina’s soybean crop improved 1 percent to 33 percent good/excellent with 49 percent of the crop mature and 4 percent harvested. Outlook: Soybean prices are back to pre-Ukrainian invasion levels after this week’s plunge in prices. Wide ranges will be expected as U.S. and South American weather continues to influence prices and any developments in Ukraine may overshadow other news. Watch for any increase in export interest or end user buying, but with current conditions, we may have seen the highs. May soybeans are $1.76.5 off their contract high and November soybeans are $1.48.25 off their contract high. High volatility will likely continue to be a part of daily pricing. For the week, May soybeans skidded $1.27.5 lower to $15.82.75, July dropped $1.21.75 to $15.66.75, and November fell 90 cents to $14.06.75 per bushel.
Weekly price changes in July wheat for the week ended March 25: Chicago wheat down $1.08.25 at $9.84.25, Kansas City down 93.25 cents at $10.13.75, and Minneapolis down 37 cents at $10.65.25 per bushel. The wheat acreage report was neutral with all wheat acreage at 47.35 million acres and stocks were also neutral at 1.025 billion bushels as of March 1. v
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look to reduce those with the lowest importance until the budget is balanced. Sticking to it — If it’s not in the budget, don’t spend it. If it’s an emergency, make adjustments elsewhere. Tax time can provide an excellent opportunity. You have a chance to give your household budget a thorough checkup. In taking control of your money, you may find you are able to devote more of it to the pursuit of your financial goals. Securities and insurance products are offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFG STC Insurance Agency LLC), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. Neither firm is affiliated with the financial institution where investment services are
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April 9 — Virtual Gardening Education Day — Online — Speakers will highlight the beauty of lilies and hostas in the garden: species available; purchasing tips; when and how to divide. Sign up at z.umn.edu/GardenEd22 April 12-14 — Dairy Calf and Heifer Association Conference — Bloomington, Minn. — April 12 starts with three tours followed by seminars. April 13 and 14 features break-out ses-
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sions. Trade show open April 13 and 14. Contact JoDee Sattler at jodee@calfandheifer.org or (414) 587-5839. April 21 — Benton County Master Gardener Spring Seminar — Sauk Rapids, Minn. — Topics include spring wildflowers, botanical tales from central Minnesota, and a question and answer session with Master Gardener volunteers. Contact Benton County Master Gardeners at (320) 255-6169.
THE LAND — APRIL 1 /APRIL 8, 2022
Real Estate Wanted WANTED: Land & farms. I have clients looking for dairy, & cash grain operations, as well as bare land parcels from 40-1000 acres. Both for relocation & investments. If you have even thought about selling contact: Paul Krueger, Farm & Land Specialist, Edina Realty, 138 Main St. W., New Prague, MN 55372. paulkrueger@edinarealty.com (612)328-4506
Feed Seed Hay OPEN Pollinated Seed Corn. Produces more high quality silage on less acres than hybrid. $67/bushel plus shipping. High feed value grain. Located at Teutopolis, IL 217-857-3377 or 217-343-4962
Fertilizer & Chemical FOR SALE: FAST 24R22” side dress applicator for applying liquid fertilizer. Olivia MN. 320-894-4489
Bins & Buildings FOR SALE: GSI 30’ top dry grain bin, fan and burner needs replacement. Good condition. You take down. $4,900. 507-327-6430
DAMAGED CORN We pay TOP dollar for damaged corn in any condition. We have trucks & vacs available. Call or Text David 507-327-8851 Eric 507-317-5227
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Farm Equipment
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1830 Case IH 12R30” row cult, FOR SALE: John Deere 336 JD 953 wagon gear/Hiniker ‘57 Farmall 350 gas, 1574 hrs, ‘58 IH tandem disc, 10’, 7” $6,750; Case IH 5300 grain baler w/ thrower, very good 195-bu barge-box, hyd hoist, new Firestone 13.6-38/600-16 spacing, new Firestone tires, drill, 24’ tandem unit, $7,500; condition, always shedded, 30/9.5 tires, side swinging tires, pwr steering, IH fend- IH 2/way hyd cyl lift, great Case 5100 12’ grain drill w/ $4,800/OBO. 612-801-1093 rear door on barge box, ers, whl wgts, 12 volt elec, looks/shape; $3,300; ‘54 Mcgreat looks/shape, $2,300. pulley, 3 valve hyd, fast hitch Cormick collector 34-30 fast grain seeder, $7,500; Husqw/ depth gauge, dual rear/ hitch 3/14 plow, 2-pc shares, varna MZ 52 lawn mow- Int’l 986 tractor, 3 pt hitch, Bossworth-630 sickle mow18.4x34 tires, 60%, 3350 frt hyd-outlets, IH WF, looks ripple coulters, great looks/ er, new cond, $3,975; Rock er (China), category one new/great shape. $12,500; ‘59 shape, $1,200; ‘59 JD CCA bucket, 78”, $1,050; Buckeye hours, 2 rear hyd outlets. three-point hitch, 63” bar, tiling machine, B/O. 507-240- 507-236-9168 540 PTO, great looks/shape, ‘04 JD 5420 MFWD Tractor w/ JD 630 gas, 1536 hrs, new field cult, 11’, 6” spacing, 0294 a JD 541 loader & joystick. Firestone 16.9/34 Good Year new Firestone tires, 2-way JD 520 20’ 3pt drill, 10” spac- $500. 507-440-5151 This clean 5420 only has 9.5L-15SL tires, pwr steer- JD hyd cyl lift, great looks/ ing, hyd markers, $5,750; FOR SALE: Hardi high wheel McCormick Deering cream 478 original hrs! It has the ing, 12-volt elec, dual hyd/ shape. $1,100; ‘66 JD collecKinze 13x18” pull type plantsprayer 80’, 3 way nozzle, separator. 507-236-9168 12spd PowrReverser trans, dual rear outlets, 3-pt hitch, tor F145H 3-pt hitch plow, 1000 gallon tank, always er, recent re-conditioning, cab-A/C & heat, right-hand JD dual light fenders, JD JD adj hitch w/ JD 2-way $2,750; JD 980 44’ field culLooking for something special? shedded. Retiring. 507-822door, tilt steering wheel, cold WF, looks new/great shape, hyd cyl, new Firestone rear tivator, late model w/ 150 Put a line ad in The Land and find it! 2188 & gauge tires, 2 way JD hyd weather kit, diff lock, 2 hyd $13,500. 507-440-5151 Call 507-345-4523 lb shanks, 4 bar harrow, cyl lift, 3/14 HS400 bottoms, remotes, 540 PTO, 3-pt hitch. FOR SALE: 20’ Kovar drag, $13,750; DMI 45’ pull type We buy Sell your farm equipment ripple coulters, great looks/ Loader & bucket have had excellent condition; Brillion crumbler, $5,900; J&M 500 Salvage Equipment shape, $1,250 507-440-5151 very little use. This 5420 was in The Land with a line ad. 10’ seeder, single box, excel- bu gravity box, truck tires, Parts Available 507-345-4523 sold new locally , was used tarp, Sudenga brush auger, lent condition. 320-252-0674 Hammell Equip., Inc. FOR SALE: Wil-Rich 2500 on small hobby farm. Asking $3,900. 320-769-2756 NEW AND USED TRACTOR 36’ field cultivator, good (507)867-4910 FOR SALE: FAST 24R22” $52,500. Call 507-789-6049 PARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, condition, sweeps are 70%, side dress applicator for apWinPower 25/15 power takeoff SELL IT FAST 55, 50 Series & newer trac- shanks in good condition, 4 plying liquid fertilizer. Olivia driven generator, mounted with a classified line ad! tors, AC-all models, Large bar harrow, $2,500/OBO. 507MN. 320-894-4489 Your ad on 2 wheel cart. 125’ power Call us today Inventory, We ship! Mark 384-7321 could be here! cord. Both Items used very 507-345-4523 or FOR SALE: 45’ MTD rolling Heitman Tractor Salvage 507-345-4523 little. 507-236-9168 basket, $3,250. 507-920-7458 800-657-4665 715-673-4829
Thank You Farmers!
• 5/8” drum roller wall thickness • 42” drum diameter wall thickness • 4”x8” frame tubing 3/8” thick • Auto fold
MANDAKO 12’-60’ LONG ROLLERS
FOR THE BEST DEAL ORDER NOW!
GREENWALD FARM CENTER Greenwald, MN • 320-987-3177 14 miles So. of Sauk Centre
TRACTORS NEW NH T4.75, T4.90, T4.120 w/loader.. On Order NEW NH Workmaster 60, 50, 35’s/loaders. On Order NEW NH 25S Workmasters……......…..On Order NEW Versatile DT610 ………......…….IN STOCK NEW Massey Tractors ........................... On Order NEW Massey 4710 w/loader……......…April 2022 3-New Massey GC1725 ……..................…Just In 17’ NH T4.75 w/loader……................…….Just In 18’ NH T4.75 w/loader………….........……Just In
PLANTERS ’05 White 8222 w/liq/ins. ……..................…….SOLD White 8222 loaded……….......................………SOLD White 6531 31R-15”…...............................……Just In Taking 2023 New Spring Orders COMBINES NEW Geringhoff chopping cornhead ....................Call ’98 Gleaner R62………........................……….SOLD ’89 Gleaner R60 w/both heads ....................... $15,500 Gleaner R50/320,630……....................……….$13,500 Gleaner R6 w/20’…..............…...……………$12,000 Geringhoff parts & heads available
TILLAGE ’11 Sunflower 4412-07.................................$28,000 JD 980 44’5 w/3bar……….................……..SOLD MISCELLANEOUS ’06 CIH MRX 690………………..………$16,500 NEW Salford RTS Units ........................................ Call CIH 490 30’ disc……............................……$4,950 NEW Unverferth Seed Tenders .............................. Call CIH 730B w/leads…...................…………Coming NEW Westfield Augers .......................................... Call NEW REM VRX Vacs. .......................................... Call NEW Hardi Sprayers ............................................. Call CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NEW Riteway Rollers ........................................... Call NEW NH L318/L320/L328 wheeled units ....... On Hand NEW Lorenz Snowblowers ................................... Call NEW NH C327/C337/C345 track units ........... On Order NEW Batco Conveyors ......................................... Call NH L228 low hours………..............……….Just Traded NEW Brent Wagons & Grain Carts ....................... Call NEW E-Z Trail Seed Wagons ................................ Call HAY TOOLS NEW Rock Buckets & Pallet Forks ...................... Call New Disc Mowers - 107,108,109 Pre-Owned Grain Cart .................................. On Hand New Disc Mower Cond. - 10’, 13’ New Horsch Jokers ................................................ Call New Wheel Rakes - 10,12,14 New NH Hay Tools - ON HAND NOW HIRING PARTS TECHS
Thank You For Your Business!
Every day is a good day to be on the farm
(507) 234-5191 (507) 625-8649 Hwy. 14, 3 miles West of Janesville, MN
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THE LAND — APRIL 1/APRIL 8, 2022
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
Steffes Auction Calendar 2022 For more info, call: 1-800-726-8609 or visit our website: SteffesGroup.com
Opening April 4 & Closing April 13 at 7PM Minn-Kota Construction Retirement Auction, Dundee, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 4 & Closing April 14 at 1PM Doug & Amanda Wallerman Retirement Equipment Auction, Norwalk, WI, Timed Online Auction Opening April 4 & Closing April 14 at 2PM Doug & Amanda Wallerman Retirement Forage Auction, Norwalk, WI, Timed Online Auction Opening April 7 & Closing April 13 at 10AM Dale & Cheri Osowski Farm Retirement Auction, Oslo, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 7 & Closing April 14 at 1PM Wilder Grain Storage & Handling Auction, Windom, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 8 & Closing April 12 at 12PM Online Hay Auction – Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 8 & Closing April 13 at 7PM Ross Menholt Sugarbeet Equipment Inventory Reduction Auction, Glyndon, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 8 & Closing on April 14 at 10AM Transcan Motorsports Group Equipment Auction, West Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening April 11 & Closing April 18 at 12PM David & Judy McCollum Farm Retirement Auction, Mahnomen, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 11 & Closing April 21 at 10AM Mcleod County, MN Land Auction – 77+/- Acres, Hutchinson, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 13 & Closing April 20 at 1PM Bulk Fuel Storage Tanks & Equipment Auction, Gary & Winger, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 13 & Closing April 21 at 10AM K&J Family Farms Inc. Equipment Realignment Auction, Carrington, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening April 13 & Closing April 21 at 1PM Meeker County, MN Land Auction – 214+/- Acres, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 15 & Closing April 20 at 10AM Online Steffes Auction – 4/20, Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction Opening April 18 & Closing April 25 at 10AM Doug & Marilyn Stein Farm Retirement Auction, McVille, ND, Timed Online Auction
Tillage Equip FOR SALE: Case IH 496 24’ disk, 9” spacing, 21” blades, no welds, asking $9,500. Case IH silage blower #56, asking $400. 320-583-7062
Opening April 22 & Closing April 26 at 1PM Radermacher Farms Inventory Reduction Auction, Monango, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening April 22 & Closing April 28 at 7PM Goodhue County, MN Land Rental Auction - 261± Acres, Wanamingo, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening April 26 & Closing May 3 at 12PM Polk County, MN Land Auction - 56± Acres, Fertile, MN, Timed Online Auction
Livestock
Hardi Commander Sprayer, FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls 750 gal, 60’ HZ 3 section also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ boom w/ controls, Hardi dia- Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred phragm pump, 540 PTO, tri- (Mike) Kemen 320-598-3790 ple nozzles, foam markers, 12.4x42 tires, monitor, alCattle ways shedded. 952-649-8604
If you’re having a Farm Auction, let other Farmers know it! Southern MN/ Northern IA April 15, 2022 April 29, 2022 May 13, 2022
April 20 at 11AM Buffalo County, WI Dairy & Land Auction – 1260+/- Acres, Arcadia, WI
Opening April 22 & Closing April 26 at 12PM Online Hay Auction – Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction
Spraying Equip
FOR SALE: John Deere 36’ 980 field digger, farmer owned, shedded, good condiJohn Deere 750 No-Till Drill. FOR SALE: 8 registered short tion, $11,500. 507-447-2237 Harvesting Equip Late model 20’ drill w/ dolly horn yearling bulls, 4 roan whl hitch, progressive markJD 3710 6 bottom pull type AR color, 2 red and 2 white, good vari-width plow. Also, Stan- ers, and 4 cyl hyd down pres- FOR SALE: 2013 Case IH 3412 blood lines, $2,500/choice. hoist all steel barge box with sure. Pins & bushings tight, cornhead 12R30” AHHC, 507-534-2048 or cell 507-273hoist 10T gear. Both excel- boots & discs getting down. $22,500. 507-383-3447 Leave 4421 Nice straight drill. Asking Message lent. 320-260-2028 $17,900. Call 507-789-6049 Red Angus & Hereford bulls For Sale, developed on forPlanting Equip McCormick Deering end gate age, Semen tested & vacciWanted seeder. 507-236-9168 nated, leading genetics for growth & mothering ability. 2000 - 1760 JD planter, 12R30” Sharp John Deere 7200 Max- All kinds of New & Used farm Colby 507-450-8303 or Doug wing fold, 250 monitor, also Emerge 2 6R30” planter w/ equipment - disc chisels, field 507-458-5421 Rushford MN has precision row shutoffs, John Deere 100 monitor, dry cults, planters, soil finishers, & e-sets, no 2020 mon includ- fert & insecticide, excellent cornheads, feed mills, discs, ed, Yetter trash whips, 3 bu, condition, $14,500/OBO (or balers, haybines, etc. 507438-9782 1.6 bu & dry insect boxes, best offer). (612) 636-1170 $22,500. 507-430-2946 John Deere 1765 corn planter; Wanted to Buy: JD 4430 and FOR SALE: Grass seed at- 12 row 30”, liquid fertilizer; 4440, 1975 or newer. JD 725 6, tachment for 20’ Case IH shark tooth row cleaners; 8 & 12 row - front mount culgrain drill, $1,000/OBO. 350 monitor. Great shape. tivators; Stanhoist and BushKnight 252 bu manure (507) 828-5030 hog steel barge boxes; Gehl spreader w/ slop gate, 540 and Lorentz grinder/mixers; Registered Hereford yearPTO, $1,500/OBO. 507-227plus all types of farm maling bulls for sale. Have 2251 chinery. 507-251-2685 Spraying Equip all shots, semen tested & poured. Halter broke & TO BUY: Duetz AlOne Call Does It All! ‘91 semi van, 28’, alum chan- WANTED broke to lead. Fantastic lis rock flex disks. Oliver S77 With one phone call, you can place growth E.P.D.’s. Will denel floor, w/ 1600 gal hor- & S88, 770 & 880, both runyour classified line ad in The Land, liver. Klages Herefords, tizonal water or fert tank, ning & non running. IHC 715 Ortonville, MN 320-273Farm News and Country Today. good brakes & tires. Case IH combine. 507-251-2685 2163(H) 605-880-0521(C) 1896, 2WD, 4,855 hrs, 18.4x38 Call The Land duals, 4spd, 3spd P/S, cab. WANTED: Stormor EZ dryer for more information bin, 24’ diameter, 36” burner 952-649-8604 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 fan; Also 980 JD field culSwine tivator, 34-36’ wide, single point depth. 507-251-2344 FOR SALE: Yorkshire, WANTED: Tile stringer cart - Hampshire, Duroc, cross good condition. Homemade bred boars, gilts & 4-H pigs. O.K. 320-223-4110 Leave Top quality. Excellent herd Upcoming Issues of THE LAND health. No PRSS. Delivery message. available. 320-760-0365
Opening April 18 & Closing April 26 at 1PM Clarence Pronschinske & Sons Inc. Dairy Cattle Retirement Auction, Arcadia, WI, Timed Online Auction
Opening April 21 & Closing April 28 at 7PM Richards Inc. Trucking Auction, West Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction
Planting Equip
*
Northern MN April 22, 2022 May 6, 2022 May 20, 2022 * June 3, 2022
Deadline is 8 days prior to publication. Indicates early deadline, 9 days prior to publication.
418 South Second Street • Mankato, MN 56001 Phone: 507-345-4523 or 800-657-4665 Fax: 507-345-1027 Website: www.TheLandOnline.com e-mail: theland@TheLandOnline.com Ask Your Auctioneer to Place Your Auction in The Land!
Answers for Slow Cooking Word Search
THE LAND — APRIL 1 /APRIL 8, 2022 Swine
Trucks & Trailers
sSpot, Duroc, Chester White, FOR SALE: ‘74 Chevy grain / Boars & Gilts available. truck, single axle, 350 end Monthly PRRS and PEDV. gine, steel box, tires good, Delivery available. Steve $2,500. Waseca area. 507Resler. 507-456-7746 327-6430
t n d . -
s r . g
, s . d y
Sell your livestock in The Land with a line ad. 507-345-4523
Pets & Supplies Mankato Pet Cremation is family owned & operated. Offering pre-planning, urns, and in-home euthanasia by Gentle Goodbyes. mankatopetcremation.com 507-995-7126 or text us.
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
PAGE 23
Miscellaneous REINKE IRRIGATION Sales & Service New & Used For your irrigation needs 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073
PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS New pumps & parts on hand. Call Minnesota’s largest disFARMER OVER 50, looking tributor for lady 35-50 for friendship HJ Olson & Company and travel. 320-406-0915 320-974-8990 Cell - 320-212-5336
Miscellaneous
Tree trimming, cutting and removal. Boom Truck & Insured. Call or Text Josh Linder 507-995-7081
Why hang on to stuff you don’t use? Put a line ad in The Land and sell those things for some extra cash. It makes sense.
Please recycle this magazine.
Call The Land at 507-345-4523
ADVERTISER LISTING Beck's Hybrids ................................................................ 1 Eric Cooling ................................................................. 19 Fladeboe Land .............................................................. 19 Greenwald Farm Center ................................................. 21 IDEAg Group, LLC ......................................................... 3 Kannegiesser Truck ....................................................... 13 Karsten Nursery .............................................. Cover Wrap Leaf Filter .................................................................... 14 Pruess Elevator, Inc. ..................................................... 19 Rush River Steel & Trim ................................................. 9 Schweiss Doors ............................................................. 19 Smiths Mill Implement, Inc. .......................................... 21 Steffes Group ................................................................ 22 TruGreen ........................................................................ 4 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 418 South Second Street, Mankato, MN 56001 www.thelandonline.com
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PAGE 24
THE LAND — APRIL 1/APRIL 8, 2022
www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”
This week’s Back Roads is the work of The Land Correspondent Richard Siemers.
Camp commemoration
W
hen German prisoners of war were returned to Europe in 1946 and Camp Algona was closed and dismantled, the only visible reminder that the community had hosted a prisoner of war camp for 22 months was the 60-piece Nativity Scene built by prisoners and gifted to Algona. (That Nativity Scene was featured in the December 10/17 issue of The Land.) Camp Algona was one of 155 Base Camps the government built around the country to house prisoners of war. Two were in Iowa, at Clarinda and Algona. The Algona Camp, 287 acres and less than two miles outside the town, existed from April 1944 to February 1946. During that time 10,000 POWs, mostly German, were at the camp at one time or another. From there they were sent to 34 branch camps in Minnesota (20), Iowa (10), and the Dakotas (4). They supplied labor to replace Americans who had gone off to war, working on farms, in factories, and at logging camps. The Camp had a large economic impact on the community, employing 70 civilians, and hosting the American military staff. It was part of Algona’s history some folks thought should be remembered. According to Jerry Yokum, President of the Camp Algona POW Museum and its current historian, in 2001 a committee was formed to explore what they might do. “We started on second base,” Yokum said, because the Nativity Scene
Committee already had a thick file of information. The museum committee added to that by seeking out first-person interviews and stories, and gathering artifacts. In 2004, the museum became a reality. Visitors will get a look at a little-known part of WWII history. After viewing a video which gives an
overview of Camp Algona, visitors can explore the subject at their own pace. A model of the camp gives perspective. One wall tells the story of Camp Algona and its life, plus an overview of the camps across the United States. Another wall honors the 2,600 men and women from Kossuth County who served in the war. A small room honors the 29 area people who were in enemy prison camps — contrasting how they were treated with those in American camps. Prisoners were provided with material and encouraged to use leisure time productively. The central portion of the large room displays samples of their work: painting, woodworking, writing, drawing, music and theatrical productions. Many of those donated items came from families who had received them from the POWs who worked for them. The story of Prisoner of War camps in the United States is often overlooked. The Camp Algona POW Museum tells of the impact the experience had on the prisoners (many returned to live in the U.S.) and the impact POWs had on the communities and the country (their labor saved the harvest). The museum is located at 114 S. Thorington St. in Algona, Iowa. It reopens for the season on weekends beginning April 2 and 3 from 1-4 p.m., with weekday hours added in the summer months. For more information, consult their website at www. pwcampalgona.org. There is a small admission charge. v
Algona, Iowa
Page 4 - April 1/April 8, 2022
THE LAND, Advertising Supplement
Make the Perfect Wind Break!!
© 2022
April 1/April 8, 2022 (800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com theland@TheLandOnline.com 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001
Fast-Growing SuperTree™ Make Perfect Wind Break
KARSTEN NURSERY
Is the home of the Fast-Growing SuperTree™ Growing and Shipping Hybrid SuperTrees for 30 years! We have 100 other species in addition to the fast-growing SuperTrees™ Visit our website, www.KarstenNursery.com, to view our entire list of trees, shrubs and conifers offered for sale. Download our list of stock and submit inquiries for any of the more than 100 species via email to Joel@KarstenNursery.com
PLEASE NOTE: WE ARE A WHOLESALE NURSERY!
• Create a Windbreak in Just 2 to 3 Years • Strong Tree - Not Subject to Broken Branches Like a Weeping Willow • Disease and Insect Free • Can Be Planted with a Tree Planter or Easily by Hand • Plants Come 12-24” and Have a Root Ball about the Size of a Soda Can • Spacing is 6’ for a Single Row and 10’ on a Double Row • SuperTree™ Grows 6-10’ a Year • Max Height 45’
Photo Taken 4 1/2 Years After Planting
We have 100 Other Species in Addition to the Fast-Growing SuperTrees™
We sell to anyone, however all orders must be for full bundle quantities.
NO SINGLE TREES are offered for sale. We do not have a retail store or regular hours. All orders are sent by UPS, Postal, or SpeeDee.
Easily Buy Online at: www.KarstenNursery.com or call 651.470.2096
Discounts for Larger Quantity Orders Easily Buy Online at: www.KarstenNursery.com or call 651.470.2096
Page 2 - April 1/April 8, 2022
THE LAND, Advertising Supplement
Hybrid SuperTree™ Great for Windbreaks Karsten Nursery has been in the tree business for over 40 years, originally specializing in bareroot wind-breaks. Now, they have established an effective, fast-growing windbreak with its Hybrid SuperTree™. The hybrid is a cross between the Chinese Willow and the White Willow, and is sold to Midwest farmers and ranchers primarily for windbreaks. The Hybrid SuperTree™ stands out from other windbreak species due to its growing speed & strength. Both traits mean they can act as a windbreak within 3 years of planting. Joel Karsten of Karsten Nursery says “In some parts of the country, these trees will grow 10 to 14 feet per year, but in our shorter growing season here in Minnesota, we see 6 to 8 feet per year.” The photo at the top of this page shows a row of Hybrid SuperTree™ planted six feet apart after 50 months of growth. Average height is 35’ and width is 15-20’. Hardy down to the cold of zone 3, and up to zone 10, this hybrid tree is sold all over the USA, and grows well in all climates. HYBRID SUPERTREES™ are a unique cross that grows extremely quickly, usually reaching 18-20’ often within two years of planting, and yet maintains structural integrity to allow it to reach a mature height of 50 - 70 feet if left without any pruning. The width can reach 15-17’ but can easily be controlled by pruning. This cultivar is disease resistant and has no known insect problems that affect the overall growth habit. It grows well in many different soil types, from sandy
to clay soils, however the most important requirement is moisture. If water is provided weekly during the first year after planting, the root system will easily support the tree after that, unless drought conditions occur. This tree seems to have a lifespan of around 30 years but they do begin to decline at about 18-20 years old. Other internet sellers will say they live longer, but we have over 500 of these that are 28 year old trees at our nursery, and the trunk diameter is about 30” on average. They began to have broken branches and decline at about 18 years old, and now we are about to remove them and replant. Don’t believe it when others tell you they live 70 years, it is just not true. We have a Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association Certified Nursery Professional on staff, and the owner has extensive experience in nursery production for more than 40 years.
Many past customers have returned year after year to purchase additional stock and have always found the finest quality and lowest prices around. We are normally a wholesale business, however over the years retail customers looking for good prices, and willing to order in our minimum bundle quantities have used Karsten Nursery as a great source of trees, shrubs and conifers at a very good value. Why Plant Hybrid SuperTree™? Other trees can take 30 years to give you shade and provide a visual barrier from unsightly views. If you need a fastgrowing hedge row that will provide quick protection from wind, snow, noise or dust then order online today and get your Hybrid SuperTrees in the ground soon! We encourage you to plant a variety of other species inside of the outside row of Hybrids, so that in 20 years you will have a good stand of trees inside of the declining row of Willows.
Important Please Read *Caution: Avoid purchasing Hybrid trees from nurseries or online sellers who offer them BARE-ROOT. The death loss percentage is very high (35%+) because the Salix species DOES NOT like to be bare-rooted, and tend to die in high percentages. This means extra work for you even if the seller replaces the dead ones. If one tree in a row dies, you’ll have an open space in your row that is difficult to fill in. The new replacement will be very small and the others grow very quickly. Remember 35% of those replacements will also die, and so on. Our stock is sold as rooted plugs, so the soil COMES WITH enclosing the roots, this way they are never exposed to the air. OUR STOCK will NOT die if given even basic care. Other species of trees grow well from bare-root stock, but NOT the Salix species. OUR STOCK can be planted anytime during the year while bare-root stock should only be sold/planted during the early spring. We used to sell these Hybrids bare-root, but we stopped 22 years ago and developed a better method that really works. Don’t get fooled by low prices, you will be sorry. For more information on our Hybrid SuperTrees™ or any of our other 100 species of trees, or to order online, please visit www.KarstenNursery.com, or call 651-470-2096.
THE LAND, Advertising Supplement
April 1/April 8, 2022 - Page 3
Here's What Our Customers Have to Say... “I bought about 20 or so of your willows just a few years ago. I wanted some privacy from the street at our home. I will say I am very happy with the willows. First off, they all survived and they are looking great. We live in Michigan and winters can be tough but these willows are doing fine. These pictures are from summer of 2019. Glad I found your trees.” – Christopher E “The SuperTree Hybrid Willows we purchased last spring are already providing us with a privacy screen and shade. Our neighbors are amazed that we have gotten nearly 12 feet of growth already since we planted them.” – Mike L. - Sioux Falls, SD “These hybrids were the only trees in this area that survived the derecho unscathed, while most other trees were leveled.” – Crystal J. - West of Cedar Rapids, IA
“Every single one of the 250 SuperTrees I purchased last spring made it through the winter and are still growing like weeds. It won’t be long now until we cannot see our neighbor’s ugly backyard.” – John W. - Sibley, IA
Page 2 - April 1/April 8, 2022
THE LAND, Advertising Supplement
Hybrid SuperTree™ Great for Windbreaks Karsten Nursery has been in the tree business for over 40 years, originally specializing in bareroot wind-breaks. Now, they have established an effective, fast-growing windbreak with its Hybrid SuperTree™. The hybrid is a cross between the Chinese Willow and the White Willow, and is sold to Midwest farmers and ranchers primarily for windbreaks. The Hybrid SuperTree™ stands out from other windbreak species due to its growing speed & strength. Both traits mean they can act as a windbreak within 3 years of planting. Joel Karsten of Karsten Nursery says “In some parts of the country, these trees will grow 10 to 14 feet per year, but in our shorter growing season here in Minnesota, we see 6 to 8 feet per year.” The photo at the top of this page shows a row of Hybrid SuperTree™ planted six feet apart after 50 months of growth. Average height is 35’ and width is 15-20’. Hardy down to the cold of zone 3, and up to zone 10, this hybrid tree is sold all over the USA, and grows well in all climates. HYBRID SUPERTREES™ are a unique cross that grows extremely quickly, usually reaching 18-20’ often within two years of planting, and yet maintains structural integrity to allow it to reach a mature height of 50 - 70 feet if left without any pruning. The width can reach 15-17’ but can easily be controlled by pruning. This cultivar is disease resistant and has no known insect problems that affect the overall growth habit. It grows well in many different soil types, from sandy
to clay soils, however the most important requirement is moisture. If water is provided weekly during the first year after planting, the root system will easily support the tree after that, unless drought conditions occur. This tree seems to have a lifespan of around 30 years but they do begin to decline at about 18-20 years old. Other internet sellers will say they live longer, but we have over 500 of these that are 28 year old trees at our nursery, and the trunk diameter is about 30” on average. They began to have broken branches and decline at about 18 years old, and now we are about to remove them and replant. Don’t believe it when others tell you they live 70 years, it is just not true. We have a Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association Certified Nursery Professional on staff, and the owner has extensive experience in nursery production for more than 40 years.
Many past customers have returned year after year to purchase additional stock and have always found the finest quality and lowest prices around. We are normally a wholesale business, however over the years retail customers looking for good prices, and willing to order in our minimum bundle quantities have used Karsten Nursery as a great source of trees, shrubs and conifers at a very good value. Why Plant Hybrid SuperTree™? Other trees can take 30 years to give you shade and provide a visual barrier from unsightly views. If you need a fastgrowing hedge row that will provide quick protection from wind, snow, noise or dust then order online today and get your Hybrid SuperTrees in the ground soon! We encourage you to plant a variety of other species inside of the outside row of Hybrids, so that in 20 years you will have a good stand of trees inside of the declining row of Willows.
Important Please Read *Caution: Avoid purchasing Hybrid trees from nurseries or online sellers who offer them BARE-ROOT. The death loss percentage is very high (35%+) because the Salix species DOES NOT like to be bare-rooted, and tend to die in high percentages. This means extra work for you even if the seller replaces the dead ones. If one tree in a row dies, you’ll have an open space in your row that is difficult to fill in. The new replacement will be very small and the others grow very quickly. Remember 35% of those replacements will also die, and so on. Our stock is sold as rooted plugs, so the soil COMES WITH enclosing the roots, this way they are never exposed to the air. OUR STOCK will NOT die if given even basic care. Other species of trees grow well from bare-root stock, but NOT the Salix species. OUR STOCK can be planted anytime during the year while bare-root stock should only be sold/planted during the early spring. We used to sell these Hybrids bare-root, but we stopped 22 years ago and developed a better method that really works. Don’t get fooled by low prices, you will be sorry. For more information on our Hybrid SuperTrees™ or any of our other 100 species of trees, or to order online, please visit www.KarstenNursery.com, or call 651-470-2096.
THE LAND, Advertising Supplement
April 1/April 8, 2022 - Page 3
Here's What Our Customers Have to Say... “I bought about 20 or so of your willows just a few years ago. I wanted some privacy from the street at our home. I will say I am very happy with the willows. First off, they all survived and they are looking great. We live in Michigan and winters can be tough but these willows are doing fine. These pictures are from summer of 2019. Glad I found your trees.” – Christopher E “The SuperTree Hybrid Willows we purchased last spring are already providing us with a privacy screen and shade. Our neighbors are amazed that we have gotten nearly 12 feet of growth already since we planted them.” – Mike L. - Sioux Falls, SD “These hybrids were the only trees in this area that survived the derecho unscathed, while most other trees were leveled.” – Crystal J. - West of Cedar Rapids, IA
“Every single one of the 250 SuperTrees I purchased last spring made it through the winter and are still growing like weeds. It won’t be long now until we cannot see our neighbor’s ugly backyard.” – John W. - Sibley, IA
Page 4 - April 1/April 8, 2022
THE LAND, Advertising Supplement
Make the Perfect Wind Break!!
© 2022
April 1/April 8, 2022 (800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com theland@TheLandOnline.com 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001
Fast-Growing SuperTree™ Make Perfect Wind Break
KARSTEN NURSERY
Is the home of the Fast-Growing SuperTree™ Growing and Shipping Hybrid SuperTrees for 30 years! We have 100 other species in addition to the fast-growing SuperTrees™ Visit our website, www.KarstenNursery.com, to view our entire list of trees, shrubs and conifers offered for sale. Download our list of stock and submit inquiries for any of the more than 100 species via email to Joel@KarstenNursery.com
PLEASE NOTE: WE ARE A WHOLESALE NURSERY!
• Create a Windbreak in Just 2 to 3 Years • Strong Tree - Not Subject to Broken Branches Like a Weeping Willow • Disease and Insect Free • Can Be Planted with a Tree Planter or Easily by Hand • Plants Come 12-24” and Have a Root Ball about the Size of a Soda Can • Spacing is 6’ for a Single Row and 10’ on a Double Row • SuperTree™ Grows 6-10’ a Year • Max Height 45’
Photo Taken 4 1/2 Years After Planting
We have 100 Other Species in Addition to the Fast-Growing SuperTrees™
We sell to anyone, however all orders must be for full bundle quantities.
NO SINGLE TREES are offered for sale. We do not have a retail store or regular hours. All orders are sent by UPS, Postal, or SpeeDee.
Easily Buy Online at: www.KarstenNursery.com or call 651.470.2096
Discounts for Larger Quantity Orders Easily Buy Online at: www.KarstenNursery.com or call 651.470.2096
