THE LAND ~ May 6, 2022 ~ Northern Edition

“Since 1976, Where Farm and Family Meet”

© 2022

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

April 29, 2022 May 6, 2022

HPAI hits home “We were hit in early April this year and have lost 94,500 birds on two farms.”

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Kristin Kveno reports on mental health services; Grits for organic chicks; and Kent Thiesse talks dollars and cents

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THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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

Inside the ol’ mail bag 418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56001 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XLI ❖ No. 9 24 pages, 1 section plus supplements

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

Cover photo courtesy of University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease and Research Policy

COLUMNS Opinion Farm and Food File From My Farmhouse Kitchen Table Talk Calendar of Events The Bookworm Sez Mielke Market Weekly Swine & U Farm Programs Marketing Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads

2-3 3 4 5 5 8 11 12 13 16-17 18-23 23 24

STAFF

Publisher: Steve Jameson: sjameson@mankatofreepress.com General Manager: Deb Petterson: dpetterson@TheLandOnline.com Managing Editor: Paul Malchow: editor@TheLandOnline.com Staff Writer: Kristin Kveno: kkveno@thelandonline.com Staff Writer Emeritus: Dick Hagen: rdhagen35@gmail.com Advertising Representatives: Dan McCargar: (507) 344-6379, dmccargar@thelandonline.com Deb Petterson: dpetterson@TheLandOnline.com Office/Advertising Assistants: Joan Compart: theland@TheLandOnline.com Lyuda Shevtsov: auctions@thelandonline.com For Customer Service Concerns: (507) 345-4523, (800) 657-4665, theland@TheLandOnline.com Fax: (507) 345-1027 For Editorial Concerns or Story Ideas: (507) 344-6342, (800) 657-4665, editor@TheLandOnline.com Because of the nature of articles appearing in The Land, product or business names may be included to provide clarity. This does not constitute an endorsement of any product or business. Opinions and viewpoints expressed in editorials or by news sources are not necessarily those of the management.

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

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Subscription and Distribution: Free to farmers and agribusinesses in Minnesota and northern Iowa. $49 per year for non-farmers and people outside the service area. The Land (USPS 392470) Copyright © 2022 by The Free Press Media is published biweekly by The Free Press, 418 S 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001-3727. Business and Editorial Offices: 418 S. 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001-3727, Accounting and Circulation Offices: Steve Jameson, 418 S 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001-3727. Call (507) 345-4523 to subscribe. Periodicals postage paid at Mankato, MN. Postmaster and Change of Address: Send address changes to The Land, 418 South Second St., Mankato MN 56001-3727 or e-mail to theland@ TheLandOnline.com.

While farmers are preparing to plant kicking around the idea of printing “Back fields, bringing new piglets, calves, kids Roads Vol. 2.” If that’s something you’d and lambs into the fold, it is a busy time like to see, drop us a line. for us at The Land as well. Our subscripWhile it’s not news that the average age tion drive for 2022 has been very sucof our farmers keeps going up, the letters cessful and we thank you all for your we receive from readers is a sobering support. reminder. “We are 84 years old and my In order for The Land to qualify for husband has Alzheimer’s;” one reader lower postage rates, the post office writes, “but I still like to read your paper.

LAND MINDS requires proof that readers are requestWe still own some land, but soon will be ing the publication. The subscription selling to our son as he owns the main

By Paul Malchow forms serve as that proof — which is farm — been in my husband’s family why it is so vital we receive a signed for going on five generations!” form from each and every subscriber.

“I appreciate The Land Now your time is valumagazine,” another subable, so to show our scriber writes. “I am 83 appreciation we gave years young and always away $400 to one lucky look forward to reading it. subscriber. Everyone who Thank you!” sent in a signed subscripAnother octogenarian tion form by March 4 was penned this kind meseligible to win. Kent sage: “I own 240 acres, Flohrs of Trimont, Minn. but live alone and rent was the lucky winner of out my farm. Will be 86 this year’s drawing. in March, but really enjoy My favorite part of the Dick Hagen’s column. annual subscription drive Hope you can keep it is the notes folks send in going.” along with the form.

We certainly intend to Almost all of them were keep it going; but it very supportive. Not only wouldn’t be possible withdoes this feedback help us out the support of our make The Land better, it readers and advertisers. also gives us a little The Land General Manager Deb Petterson (left) presents Kent Even the smallest ads morale boost in knowing Flohrs (right) of Trimont, Minn. with a check for $400 as the and classified advertising people appreciate our winner of The Land’s subscription contest. Flohrs runs a cow/ keeps the whole thing efforts. calf operation, farming a little over 200 acres plus renting going. We received a numStill smarting from the pasture land. “Conception to carcass,” he chuckled. Flohrs ber of comments wishing raises registered angus and Hereford cross and is just wrap- we had more machinery Covid shutdown, which ping up a 60-head calving season. “Just got five left and they was nothing but bad ads in the classifieds — should be coming any time,” he said. Flohrs admits to having news, one reader asked us a “real good year” and was able to build a new barn to shel- adding they’ve had great to “squeeze in some jokes ter his animals. The 2021 hay crop was good and Flohrs has success and response selland games.” Humor is in plenty of chopped silage to keep the operation going. He ing their own items in the eye of the beholder, helps out as a part-time rural mail carrier in the Trimont area The Land. and I think Karen and also pitches in for other post offices who need a hand.

The notes and com“Everyone’s short on help,” he said. “I get a lot of calls. But Schwaller can be pretty ments we receive from darned funny; but we are once I start calving, I only go out a couple days a month.” our readers are a good pretty light on the jokes. reminder of the value literally thousands of people You may notice however, we added a new feature — find in reading The Land. Even if we get taken the Word Search Puzzle now appears in each issue. behind the woodshed once in a while, we appreciate “My husband has read your magazine for the feedback and important connection to all of you. decades,” one letter stated. “We especially loved your As we embark on another growing season, everyBack Roads travels during the pandemic. We did one here at The Land wishes everyone safety and many of the drives and learned about places we had health in 2022. “Hope you can keep it going.” visited before.”

Paul Malchow is the managing editor of The Land.

“Enjoy your work immensely — front to back He may be reached at editor@TheLandOnline.com. v page,” one subscriber wrote. Our back page, more commonly known as “Back Roads,” has been so popular with readers The Land selected a few and published a book — which has sold out. We’ve been

OPINION

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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

Cattle never judged me, so I never judged cattle Despite spending every day of my without one word of explanation. (Richard southern Illinois youth on what at the would carefully eye all.) time was a very large dairy farm, I never My lack of judging interest, talent or really had a clue of what made one training, however, never kept me from Holstein cow or calf better or worse than picking favorites in the herd. One, which the next Holstein cow or calf. my brother, David, and I adored was, Most of that inability lay in my comsimply, “22” — the number stamped on plete disinterest to show any calf, heifer the brass tag hanging by a chain around or cow at the county 4-H fair. The reason FARM & FOOD FILE her neck. We loved her not for her beauty was selfishly simple: Since the fair or butterfat, but because she was a barBy Alan Guebert seemed to always be scheduled on the rel-bellied pet we could climb over, under hottest, steamiest day of the summer, and on — anytime we wished. We nothing — be it animal, vegetable or could even lay on her broad back while mineral — wanted to be there, so why she stood slowly chewing alfalfa hay in should I ever want to be there? utter contentment. She was a perfect, silent friend.

That disinterest, however, didn’t keep me from Another animal, tagged “52,” did have a name: trying to join the county 4-H dairy judging team. In Dyna. The name wasn’t for anyone; it was the shortfact, it spurred me because the spring Saturday of ened version of her complete name, Dynamite (the the multi-county judging event to winnow the talent insight you needed to milk her without losing your (and my oldest brother, Richard, was a true talent) right arm). Dyna was the kicking-est, most-cussed from posers like me, it also promised lunch at the cow we ever had on the farm; but she earned more only McDonalds in southern Illinois. than her keep, so she remained — as did our bruised forearms and deflated egos.

What 11-year-old farm boy wouldn’t have suffered three hours of manure-spattered cow-gazing to take Even the farm’s longtime herdsman, Howard, the advantage of that once-in-a-boyhood opportunity?

And, yes, the first bite of my first-ever McDonald’s French fry that day remains a knee-shaking memory.

But it also left me blissfully ignorant of what “conMORRIS, Minn. — Registration is open for the firmation” means in reference to any animal, where Strategic Farming: Field Notes program, designed as exactly I should set my gaze to examine a cow’s a weekly webinar program addressing all crop-relat“topline,” or that “hock” was a noun referring to an ed questions in real-time in an interactive, discusanimal’s foot, not a verb suggesting a visit to a sion-based format. pawn shop.

Field Notes begins May 11 and will continue weekMy father, a lifelong dairy farmer, never offered one ly throughout the 2022 growing season; 30-minute insight on evaluating cow flesh despite his annual sessions begin at 8 a.m. Wednesdays. The program purchase of six to 10 promising, pregnant heifers. will feature a live webinar with interactive discusOne day he’d just be gone “to look for heifers” and the sion with attendees, addressing in-season cropping next day a straight bed truck would arrive to unload issues as they arise. his purchases. All were black and white, all had four Weekly topics will include soil fertility, agronomics, legs and four udders, and all were added to the herd

OPINION

gentlest soul who ever walked into a milking parlor, disliked Dyna. And who could blame him? Dyna had two chances a day, six days every week to clip him.

On the seventh, Howard healed.

My father wasn’t sentimental about any cow, heifer or dog on the farm. If it, as he often said about first-calf heifers, “Put more on her back than in the bucket,” she got a quick ticket to one of our two basement freezers. If the monthly Dairy Herd Improvement Association records showed a cow’s production slacking, sliding, or slowing, a cocked eye greeted her every trip into the parlor.

And he never forgot the slackers or sliders. If they took one more step in the wrong direction — didn’t breed back, jumped a fence, or gave anyone a hard time in the parlor — they were on the next truck to the National Stockyards in East St. Louis, Ill. And, I later discovered to my horror, the nearest McDonald’s.

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

Strategic Farming webinars begin May 11

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PAGE 4

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

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

The disappearance of MWP becomes a new MWP Forty years ago this month of April, my years many had come down during farmer and I moved to our farm home. It storms. It was time to bite the bullet as was our third move since we had much as we dreaded doing it. The few exchanged matrimonial vows less than a remaining trees needed to be removed. year prior.

We had also planted a windbreak This farm acreage was a beautiful wellaround two sides of the farm. They were kept farm. A large lawn with a few trees a fast-growing tree which did exactly surrounded the old farmhouse which had what we wanted. They blocked the north been built in 1935. The small grove of and west winds very well. We were FROM MY mature trees was more interesting than thankful to have it.

FARMHOUSE most — with a slope that added interest KITCHEN This windbreak was becoming more of and character. problem.

As it aged, branches and twigs

By Renae B. A very tiny creek (actually the word would litter the ground after any wind.

Vander Schaaf creek is almost too generous to describe The youngest children coined it the MWP the trickle of water) occasionally runs through the trees — Make Work Project. They were not happy farm stead. There is a little larger one that goes with this chore they deemed unnecessary. through the pasture.

Well, they grew up and left. Just as the dairy cows Normally in a snowy year, the melting snow often were sold when the youngest child left, so makes the tiny creek a point of interest. The meltthese trees had to be removed when it was just my ing snow can cause a turbulent mini waterfall with farmer and me to do the cleanup. quite a bit of power as it flows through the narrow gorge. Sometimes the rushing water disappeared under a remaining snow bank before it emptied into a swampy area.

By summer, there is little trace of this stream which earlier announced spring had arrived.

Yes, this acreage was and still is my ‘dream’ farm.

The grove was a favorite place for me to be. There were trees to climb. Who cares if I was supposed to be mature married woman? The shady canopy was a favorite destination for a Sunday afternoon walk.

The birds would fly from tree to tree singing their songs. Patches of violets grew naturally in open areas.

Once the dastardly deed of taking trees was done, Chokecherries and elderberries would spring up the farm has a new look. Surprisingly in a way we in the most surprising places. Mulberry trees grew liked it. This isn’t a level piece of land so the natualong the east edge. It was a paradise. ral hills and valleys on this eleven acres have Did you notice the verb “was?” When we moved always suggested beauty. It is a bit easier to imaghere, the trees were already mature. Through the ine a treeless prairie.

The wind of this winter reminded us why the early settlers soon planted trees upon their arrival.

Also, with the disappearance of windbreak, the woodpeckers packed up and left. Not a single one appeared at the suet feeder this winter.

Only a handful or two of the original trees remain Send your letters to: on this place. Three pines are at least 90 years old. I know because the man we purchased the farm from Editor, The Land said he had to water those trees when he was a 418 South Second St. young boy. If he were alive, he would be over 100 years old.

Mankato, MN 56001 He and his wife planted four maples around the e-mail: editor@thelandonline.com house. One green ash remains in the grove. Then All letters must be signed and accompanied there is this landmark maple tree that is huge by a phone number (not for publication) along our road. It is a majestic looking tree. The to verify authenticity.

Letters to the editor are always welcome.

kind that inspires one to plant a tree in hopes it too will grow into a tree that says ‘This is my home, and I like it here.’

Thankfully we have been planting trees over the past 40 years — wherever we could find an open spot. The lawn was and remains an obstacle course for the person who does the mowing.

Fruit trees, such as apple, cherries, plums, and pear trees do well. I still keep trying to have good apricots.

We like different varieties of trees, so have planted Burr oaks, butternuts, green ashes, maples and more evergreen trees, a black cherry, elm, walnut, sycamore and of course, a cottonwood.

I’m realizing now that butternut trees needed more room than was allowed. There is definitely more to this project than purchasing a couple of trees, digging a hole and carrying buckets of water.

Not every tree we have planted has survived for one reason or another. In one location the trees were doing well until several real wet years occurred. The normally dry land remained wet too long. Apparently the soggy soil didn’t let enough oxygen reach the roots.

This cold, snowless, windy winter has taken its toll on many of the pine trees.

They desperately need water and less wind.

Other trees haven’t made it because of rodent and deer problems. In years past voles especially have made tracks under the snow to chew on the bark.

Deer have marked this place as the hobos once did. Somewhere they have posted a sign which says “Young tender trees just right for nibbling or rubbing antlers against.”

As my MWP of picking up sticks disappears, a new MWP of choosing and planting more trees and shrubs begins. This really seems more fun of a project. But also a bit scary. One almost feels like an artist with an almost blank canvas to begin the process of planting trees.

When I drive through the countryside, there are many farm homes I have admired for their trees, shrubbery and landscaping. Sometimes I wish signs were posted by an unusual tree or shrub to let me know what the plant is.

My farmer and I are thankful this place has had many wonderful trees for all these years. Now it’s up to us to make this place beautiful once again. It will be a never-ending MWP. It sounds absolutely delightful because this is our home, and we like it here.

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

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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

PAGE 5

Harvesting hens was a family chore not forgotten Was there anything bad about growing up on the farm in the 1960s and 1970s? I guess not too much … unless you were me and you had to clean chickens.

How I despised that time every summer. It took a lot of food to feed a family of TABLE TALK nine; and part of that involved “putting up” chick- By Karen Schwaller ens.

As much as I despised it, I think of my poor mother — who blew in from Boston to Kansas City to northwest Iowa, and arrived on the farm straight out of the church with a brand new diamond ring, mice in that old house, work to do and a whole lot to learn about farm life.

She was our own version of Lisa Douglas of “Green Acres” fame; except Mom was much prettier than Ava Gabor.

Dad was the man of the hour to start the process.

He would bring in tall buckets from outside, fill them with water and heat them on the stove. That combination brought the hog house aroma into the kitchen, and was a bouquet I didn’t mind packing away when I left for college.

When all conditions were met, Dad would do “the deed.”

Yes, someone had to execute the execution of the strutting fowl that would soon be the object of our baited forks and numerous wish bone-possession fights. How glorious it was to have fried chicken for dinner; but how dreadful it was to get it from the farm to the fry pan.

Doing “the deed” was a job only Dad could do. We all had to help catch the chickens (as if they were common street criminals) to help get the process started.

Once all of that was finished, the plucking began.

Even that wasn’t so awful, but my sister knew how to work the system. She was meticulous, and would clean only one chicken while the rest of us carried the load of actually moving the entire project forward.

I suppose Mom learned a lot about all of us kids as we stood around the upside-down cow tank which served as our table of deprivation, and listened to our teen and tween stories and sass. She even bore the scars of having to listen to our brand of music — mostly as a peace offering. (She longed to hear the Mills Brothers, but usually got The Doobie Brothers.)

Mom and us girls processed the birds for freezing.

I can still recall the feeling of reaching inside the cavity. I liken it to sticking your hands into the brains at the haunted house.

Still, I don’t remember Mom complaining about doing the same thing, even though this was certainly

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

May 7 — Rose Education Day — St. Cloud, Minn.

— Presentations include “Growing Roses at Lyndale Park,” and “Rose Pruning Fundamentals.” Contact Stearns County Master Gardeners at (320) 255-6169.

May 11 & 25, June 8 — Agronomy in the Field — Mason City, Iowa — A multi-session, hands-on workshop for women interested in learning more about agronomy. The goals of this series are to provide a better understanding of inputs for crop production, different conservation practices and increase confidence in communication with their spouse, farming partner, ag retailer or tenant. Contact Sarah DeBour at sdebour@iastate.edu or (641) 423-0844.

May 11, 18, 25, June 1 & 8 — Strategic Farming: Field Notes — Online — Webinar will discuss inseason cropping issues as they arise. Weekly sessions may include topics related to soil fertility, agronomics, pest management and equipment. You need to register only once and may attend any or all of the webinars. Register at z.umn.edu/strategic-farming.

Contact Jared Goplen at gople007@umn.edu or (320) 589-1711.

May 12 — Commercial Dairy Goat Operation Startup to Success — Online — Webinar will showcase a virtual tour of a dairy goat operation and topics such as facilities, milking equipment, processing.

Register at z.umn.edu/dairygoatoperation. Contact Brenda Miller at nels4220@umn.edu June 7 — Pipestone Lamb and Wool Facility Tour — Pipestone, Minn. — This full day tour will feature five producers with new and remodeled facilities. The buildings and feeding systems reduce labor, minimize feed waste and enable larger herds. Contact Inf Philip Berg at philip.berg@mnwest.edu or (507) 825-6799 June 10 & 11 — Youth Tractor and Farm Safety Certification — Fertile, Minn. — The youth tractor and farm safety certification program is a two-part program, including both an online learning experience and two days of in-person hands-on training in the summer. The online course is a self-paced one- to two-week program. Contact Heather Dufault at pohl0024@umn.edu or (218) 563-2465.

June 14 & 15 — Youth Tractor and Farm Safety Certification — Howard Lake, Minn. — Contact Karen Johnson at ande9495@umn.edu or (320) 4844303.

a job she didn’t come from the big city knowing how to do. Looking back, I wonder if she ever regretted not reading the fine print on her marriage license.

Who would sign up for such a fowl-smelling (pun intended), greasy and disgusting annual ritual?

As kids, I used to always be amazed that when the fried chicken was passed around the table, Dad always took the back. It didn’t have much meat on it—you’d think he’d stick his fork into other plump pieces that offered a hunger-taming mouthful of juicy, poultry-lovers’ delight.

It was many years later when it occurred to me that, while we kids devoured all those sumptuous, plump pieces, Dad took the pieces that no one else wanted to eat. It had to be true — otherwise, why would someone who worked as hard as he did choose to eat those pieces that looked as if they had already been eaten? And every time?

It was after that epiphany that I sorrowfully thought of Dad every time I heard my own thighs rub together when I walked. It was fallout from all those summer days spent in the grove, starting the process of fattening us all up, once the chickens had selflessly completed their part in the first leg of that journey.

Fast forward to when I was married, and we agreed to let my mother-in-law raise some chickens on our farm. When the day came time to clean them, we invited both sets of parents here to ensure the job got done quickly. None of them minded the work, really; but they both had different thoughts on how the job should be done. I think you know the rest.

I don’t mind saying it was a glorious moment when we saw tail lights in front of us.

And I think I understood how Mom and Dad must have felt when us kids all left home.

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

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THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

Rothfork: HPAI this time is different from 2015

By TIM KING The Land Correspondent MELROSE, Minn. — Pete Rothfork’s family has been raising turkeys near Melrose, Minn. for three generations. It started 1959 when Pete’s father Harold, along with his partner Frank Maleska, opened the Melrose Feed Mill. Then, in the 1960s, the two men started raising turkeys.

“Through the 70’s and 80’s, they increased production to seven farms — all in Stearns County,” Rothfork said. “I worked on turkey farms through high school and after college. In 1988 I was hired as manager of Melrose Feed Mill. My father died in 1992, and I took over management of his farms and bought out my siblings. In 2013 Frank retired, and I bought his farms.”

Rothfork, who has been a leader in both the state and national turkey industries, ushered his farm through the avian influenza epidemic of 2015 with help and support from family members and loyal employees.

The Land: You told me that other members of your family have joined the business since you took over from Frank and your father. Who is involved in the business today?

Rothfork: My daughter Jessica Westbrock started working with me in the office. Shortly after that, her husband Andy started working the live production side for us. We bought our eighth farm together, with some key employees, in 2019. My grandson Peyton Linn has wanted to be a turkey farmer since he was six. He now works with us, training for my job. That’s generation four!

The Land: Your family’s farm was hit pretty hard in 2015. What did you do to keep your spirits up?

Rothfork: In 2015 we got Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) on four of our largest farms. We lost 180,000 birds — 120,000 to the disease, and 60,000 to depopulation because they were on infected sites. The depopulation of healthy birds is the hardest part of dealing with this disease.

At the same time, our feed business went to 30 percent of what it was. When I went to the mill workers and told them we would be very slow, they all volunteered to help with the HPAI clean-up. The workers on the healthy farms continued to raise

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their birds, and the rest of us worked on clean-up and virus elimination. With everyone working together, we were able to keep everyone’s spirits up. A strong faith that things would get better also helped. I was told “if you’re worried, pray. And if you pray, why worry?”

The Land: When you talked to Minnesota Public Radio in June 2015 you described that epidemic as a large bump for Minnesota’s turkey industry. How long did it take the industry to recover from that?

What was necessary to accomplish that?

Rothfork: The Minnesota industry was hit hard in 2015; but we were able to work through it. We knew we had to get back running so we would have birds for Thanksgiving. The turkey industry is the only industry that 18 percent of our annual production is purchased for one day! Thirty percent is consumed between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Minnesota industry worked with the regulators to get as many birds as possible placed on farms in June, July and August so we had flocks to sell for Thanksgiving. The next year, turkey prices went up, and the industry was able to recoup some of the money lost in 2015.

The Land: I’ve read that farmers were more prepared this year than in 2015. What was done to be prepared?

Rothfork: After the outbreak in 2015, the industry — along with the Minnesota Turkey Growers, the University of Minnesota, and the National Turkey Federation — developed biosecurity guidelines to help us better cope with an outbreak. These included, but are not limited to installing Danish Entries on all our barns, installing screens to keep wild birds out, and being very vigilant to rodent control.

The Land: Is your farm ok so far this time around?

Rothfork: We were hit in early April this year and have lost 94,500 birds on two farms. Unfortunately, 24,000 of those were healthy birds that had to be depopulated. We are composting the birds and have started on virus elimination and disinfection of the premises. We hope to repopulate the barns in six to ten weeks from the infection date.

The Land: Some farms which have healthy flocks but are near an infected flock can’t move their birds.

Do you have any advice for farmers with healthy flocks inside a quarantine zone?

Rothfork: When a farm is infected with HPAI, a ten kilometer — or about six miles — control zone is established. A quarantine is established and no birds are allowed in or out. However, permits may be obtained from USDA to move within the control zone.

The control zone can be lifted 14 days after composting begins and outside virus elimination has been done.

If someone is in a control zone they should contact the Minnesota Board of Animal Health to see how to handle any bird movements. Anyone who owns birds — either commercially or backyard — should also contact the Board. If you have a backyard flock, please keep them indoors at least until the end of May. Younger growers or owner operators can contact the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association if they have any questions or need help. MTGA can steer them in the right direction and get them the resources they need.

The Land: How is this epidemic different then 2015?

Rothfork: This strain of HPAI is different from the strain in 2015. In 2015 we were pretty sure that waterfowl were the carriers; but they did not get sick from it. This new strain is actually killing waterfowl.

Another difference is that in 2015 the virus attacked mature birds. We got hit hard because we raise mostly 20-week-old Tom turkeys. The other growers in central Minnesota that raised 14-week-old hens were not hit. This new strain is hitting old and young birds also. I’ve heard of turkey flocks as young as six weeks getting sick this year. It also can make chicken broilers sick. That did not happen in 2015.

The Land: Has the epidemic an effect on sales at Melrose Feed Mill?

Rothfork: Melrose Feed Mill only feeds the turkeys raised by my family and our partners. Our business at the mill has dropped by 30 percent. Normally we make 225 ton of feed a day; but now we are making about 150 ton per day. v

Youth safety vests available from MFB EAGAN, Minn. — As part of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee’s commitment to farm safety, the group is selling youth safety vests to help keep the next generation safe on the farm.

These hi-vis safety vests help to promote safe practices on the farm by keeping youth more visible, and can be worn over clothing to keep kids safe year around. The vests also encourage conversation with youth about the importance of farm safety.

Vests are available for $5 each and are available at

https://fbmn.org/.

Safety is an important topic every day of the year.

Farm Bureau promotes safety and health in agriculture and rural communities to help reduce the number of farming-related accidents. MFBF County Farm Bureaus participate and host activities like farm and home safety forums for youth and adults to help promote safe practices and increase public awareness.

This article was submitted by the Minnesota Farm Bureau. v

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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

PAGE 7

Independent producers continue to feel corporate squeeze

By RENAE B. VANDER SCHAAF The Land Correspondent SIOUX CENTER, Iowa — On March 22 the Sioux Center Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual ag event at the Terrace View Event Center. There was good conversation at the tables as 250 farmers and local business people enjoyed steak sandwiches and sides. FFA chapters from Rock Valley, Sioux Center, Unity Christian (Orange City) and Dordt University agricultural students were also in attendance.

Matt Nice, AgriVision store manager in Sioux Center emceed the event. “Today is National Ag Day,” said Nice. “This year’s theme is ‘Growing A Climate For Tomorrow.’ We want to recognize our area producers and the work they do. Agriculture has a great effect on our overall economy. We are happy to see students here as a way to connect with others involved in agriculture.”

The Rev. Jesse Henkle, pastor at the Central Reformed Church, talked about the changes that he has seen in his lifetime in agriculture. “God doesn’t change,” said Henkle. “Nor does our need for water.”

(The snow coming down added to the festive feeling of the day, as it has been very dry in northwest Iowa.)

Henkle then prayed, thanking God for the good land, His care and for the people involved in agriculture.

Iowa’s Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Naig, then addressed the audience. “We used the word unprecedented at historic levels in 2021,” said Naig. “Already in 2022 we have felt effects from Canada’s Pacific Rail strike, interest rates and inflation.”

“Last year we saw the food supply chain interrupted,” Naig went on to say. “Rarely before in America’s history have store shelves been empty. Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Ag Day reminds Agriculture, enjoys talking Americans of the impor- about agriculture. tance of agriculture.”

“I’m thankful to live in Iowa,” said Naig, “where our legislature talks about the challenges in our economy. We are working to develop a state brand program, Choose Iowa. Happy Ag Day!” While introducing the next speaker, Brad Kooima of Kooima Kooima Varilek Trading, Nice injected a bit of farmer humor: “We agree on everything,” said Nice, “except the color of tractors he drives.”

Kooima had his first pen of cattle on feed when he was just 16 years old in 1974. He still feeds cattle with his son. “I am passionate about working for the independent beef producer,” said Kooima. “I say this humbly, but God has provided people to walk along-

side me. He also gave me the skills to join in the fight to keep the cattle industry from becoming vertically integrated.”

“It wasn’t that many years ago,” explained Kooima, “that almost everyone had some reference point to agriculture. It may have been a grandparent or uncle. It’s becoming common to see a third generation that has never had manure on their boots. This matters. I was interviewed by the New York CBS national news station while in Minneapolis. During the question and answer time, someone from the crowd asked, ‘What does he mean by meat? I get mine from the grocery store.’”

“If the consumer wants sustainability, we know all about sustainable agriculture,” said Kooima. “No one does cattle like we do here. We plant the seed, tend to it as it grows, harvest it, feed it and return natural fertilizer to nourish the soil.”

Kooima is a member of the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association because he said he believes the organization is on the right track. For a long time he wasn’t a member of the NCBA because he didn’t believe they represented the independent producer. “But then I remembered my dad’s words,” said Kooima. “When I complained about something, he would remind me in his soft-spoken voice, ‘you are either part of the solution or part of the problem’.”

Kooima has the joined the NCBA and is now part of the Livestock Marketing Committee and the six member Triggers Committee. He also a member of the Feedlot Council for the ICA. This involvement provides him with opportunities to speak out and be an influence. “I have had manure on my boots,” he

said. “I do have the ability to throw the bull***t flag at the all-knowing muckety-mucks at meetings.”

“My goal is to slow down vertical integration,” Kooima stated. “When Walmart has 65,000 cows, this move towards corporate feeding isn’t good for the independent producer.”

This was made quite evident during two recent Black Swan events. The Covid-19 pandemic which caused closures or reduced slaughter numbers at packing plants; and the fire at the Tyson plant in Holcomb, Kan. in 2019; had a big impact on marketing cattle.

“I had cattle ready for market,” said Kooima. “But I could not get a bid for six weeks. Market-ready cattle cannot be stored like grain in a bin. Expenses go up, as these cattle still need to eat. Health issues can start. The independent producer was the lowest guy on the totem pole.”

Kooima explained a large slaughter packing plant might offer a cattle feeder who has 100,000 head on feed $2.00 over market price if the feeder sells them all of his cattle. This same packing plant often doesn’t return a call to a smaller producer. This makes it very difficult for the smaller independent producer to compete. Even though cattle from the Midwest generally score at 90 percent choice grade over a southern-raised beef that often grades 65 percent choice, it has become a matter of quantity of quality.

“I plan to keep fighting my butt off,” said Kooima.

“The right idea at the right time can effect change.

I’m proud to be part of the cattle business.” v

10 tips for preparing your pasture While starting grazing in the spring may seem as easy as opening the gate, there are several items to consider.

1. Think about how your pasture worked, or did not work, in previous years – including stocking rate, paddock size and shape, number of paddocks, amount of forage produced, weed control, and fertility.

2. Check fences. Over the winter months, snow and wildlife can damage fencing. Check all fences and make repairs as needed before starting spring grazing. Also, make sure all gates are closed and latched.

3. Ensure water sources and equipment are clean and in working condition.

4. Remove debris. Walk the pasture and remove debris that might have blown in over the winter months. This includes downed branches.

5. Take soil samples every three years to determine pH and fertilizer needs. You can obtain soil testing kits from your County Extension Office.

6. Fertilize. When applying fertilizer, it is best to apply half of the amount in early spring and the

other half in the middle of June. The ideal time to fertilize is right before a gentle, soaking rain. Keep horses off the pasture until you can no longer see the fertilizer pellets.

7. Control weeds. Mowing is usually sufficient for annual weed control, but you may need to use a herbicide. Always follow the directions and grazing restrictions listed on the herbicide label.

8. Schedule a dental exam and vaccinations with your veterinarian. Test your horse’s manure to determine fecal egg counts and deworm accordly.

9. Keep the horses off pastures until the ground is firm and the grass has grown to 6 to 8 inches. Once the grass has reached this height, start acclimating the horses to the pasture in 15-minute, daily increments (15 minutes the first day, 30 minutes the second day, etc.) until you reach 5 hours of grazing. After that, unrestricted grazing can occur.

10. Make adjustments as needed and consider rotational grazing.

This article was submitted by University of Minnesota Extension. v

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THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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

Women’s Ag Leadership Conference was great experience

By WHITNEY NESSE The Land Correspondent CHASKA, Minn. — On April 13 at The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, around 200 women gathered for the 24th annual Women’s Agricultural Leadership Conference. The conference room was bustling with conversation and networking between high school and college students, producers, lenders, ag education supervisors, FFA and 4-H representatives, ag professionals and extension educators.

The theme for this year’s conference was “Agriculture 2022: Deep Roots Strong Future;” and the lineup of speakers and breakout session topics reflected the theme well. Stacked with women excelling professionally in the agricultural industry, there was much to glean at this one-day event.

Helping her students develop deep roots and strive towards a strong future, Tracy Nelson, ag teacher and FFA advisor for the Dassel-Cokato school district, has high hopes for the future of agriculture. “I brought six high school students. Girls that I have [with me], have some leadership roles in our chapter.

I want to show them how to network and show them that women can have a strong role in agriculture.

There is so much variety and so many different careers in agriculture,” Nelson said.

Natalie said. Natalie also said that she was looking forward to learning more about the agricultural industry while in attendance.

During a panel discussion, those attending heard from Sarah Dornink, executive director of MALEC; Heather Moore, owner of Moore Family Farms and Moore Local; and Corey Scott, livestock sustainability services leader with Truterra, LLC, a division of Land O’ Lakes. When asked to comment on growing for the future, Scott responded with encouragement. “Growth is different for every person for every different season of life. Growth isn’t always bigger and better,” she said. Moore chimed Photo by Whitney Nesse in saying it is always good to analyze the worst case scenario when making business decisions.

She is very hopeful when talking about the next generation of young ladies joining the agricultural If you can accept and make peace with the worst industry. “I think that they are creative and they are case, then move forward towards goals. All three of determined. They can hold their own,” Nelson stated. the panelists agreed that exploring options with an agile mindset is beneficial when making decisions Also attending the conference was Natalie and take challenges in stride.

Neumann, a high school senior from Maple Lake, The Women’s Agricultural Leadership Conference Minn. Neumann and her cohorts were wearing their green blazers and representing the 4-H state ambas- is organized by women from a variety of ag backsadors. This was the first time she had attended this grounds as well as numerous ag organizations, focusconference and was looking forward to facilitating ing on the fundamental role women play in agriculround table discussions regarding the opportunities ture. By helping develop deep roots, the future of v 4-H has to offer. “This is my thirteenth year in 4-H,” women in agriculture looks bright.

Animal get-togethers have many names Sometimes, you’re such a goose.

“The Social Lives of Animals” And that’s okay; a little horsing around

by Ashley Ward never hurt anyone and times with friends c.2022, Basic Books are the best. You can chatter like monkeys, laugh like hyenas, get a little $30.00 squirrely, and memories are made like 373 pages that. You need your friends to get wild every now and then; and in “The Social Teamwork may Lives of Animals” by Ashley Ward, you’ll THE BOOKWORM be essential at see that flying, running, climbing, and SEZ your job, just as it crawling creatures are really no different

By Terri Schlichenmeyer is with army at all. ants. One bite Anyone watching a few dogs playing in from a single a park, or a clowder of cats in a windowsill would army ant hurts like crazy but likely agree that animals can form relationships. it won’t kill you. A bunch of army But how does that matter to humans? ants, though? That’s a different matter entirely.

Says Ward, being able to “trace direct... parallels Flocks of birds have influenced the making of selfbetween our own societies and those of the animals driving vehicles. Fish have taught scientists how ... [can] help us to appreciate how sociality shapes many influencers are needed to move a crowd. our lives...”

Studies with rats show the effects of dense crowding on mental health, and cows are good at recognizing We love to gather in groups, for instance, and friends by their portraits. Hyenas communicate to Antarctic krill likewise hate to be alone. As it turns the pack which prey they plan to hunt for the day. out, gathering in large groups helps keep krill alive because it confounds whales, who enjoy krill for din- Whales play, and dolphins play with them. Monkeys ner. Being in groups keeps locusts alive, too. Locusts lie to get what they want. Animals innovate, reason, are can be cannibals, and the innate desire not to be have a culture, and communicate, Ward says, and eaten keeps them all moving “in the same direction.” they have a lot to tell us...

So you say that someone called you a birdbrain the other day. What a compliment, as you’ll see when you read “The Social Lives of Animals.”

Chances are (especially if you’re an animal lover) you’ve already an observer of animal behavior and, if so, you’ll be happy that author Ashley Ward extends your knowledge. There are, it seems, dozens of facts on each page that will delight lovers of fin, feather, and fur, as well as new findings and fascinating anecdotes.

But this book isn’t all serious bull. Ward is a lively writer who’s obviously interested in his subject — he’s a professor of Animal Behavior at the University of Sydney, after all — and his personal tales of exploration and discovery are academically lighthearted, like cocktail party banter that’ll make you chuckle.

Perfect for armchair biologists and animal lovers of all kinds, this is one of those “hey, listen to this” kinds of books that you’ll want to share out loud.

Start “The Social Lives of Animals” and you’ll go ape over it.

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

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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

Mile Four feed caters to backyard flocks

By WHITNEY NESSE feed for Mile Four are grown in The Land Correspondent Minnesota and the Dakotas, are milled and bagged in rural Marrying the worlds of digiwestern Minnesota and then tal marketing and e-commerce trucked to Minneapolis for prito rural farm life is not an easy vate and wholesale distribution task. However, Luke Huebner, around the United States. owner of Mile Four, an organic chicken feed company, has sucIn Minneapolis, Mile Four cessfully done just that. After has five employees who manworking in digital marketing age the day- to-day tasks such and e-commerce in the Twin as designing, developing, marCities area for 15 years, keting and media — as well as Huebner was interested in distribution. “We’re growing using his career skills and his faster than anticipated, which love for agriculture in a new is a great problem,” stated way. Thus, he formed Mile Four Huebner. “We need to increase — a family owned, organic, staff, warehouse, stock and non-GMO, antibiotic-free chickbasically everything quickly. en feed company.

Growth is great, but we want to ensure we’re growing sustainHuebner grew up in the rural ably.”

Morris, Minn. area on a corn and soybean farm and raised a One of the many things which few chickens as a hobby. make Mile Four unique is they Huebner said his father and are almost exclusively an brother are the fourth and fifth online company. Their main generations to farm their famifocus is providing feed for folks Photos submitted raising six to 15 backyard layly’s land and are still doing so today. The Huebner family Luke Huebner’s Mile Four organic chicken feed is ing hens. “These people have farm lies about four miles out developing quite a following among backyard chickens specifically so they of town, which is where Luke poultry owners. can get eggs for their families came up with the name “Mile and they really, really care about where that comes Four” for his company. from,” Huebner said. Mile Four feed is milled weekly Started three years ago and headquartered in in order to keep their product as fresh as possible.

Minneapolis, Mile Four still has rural roots. “We Huebner said they offer a subscription on the webpartnered with a smaller, organic grainery in the site, so most people subscribe and get feed deliveries Morris area,” said Huebner. All of the grains used for once per month.

Soybean farmers needed for research The University of Minnesota Extension is looking for 100 soybean farmers to fill out an online survey providing information about their production practices and provide corresponding yield maps. In addition, Extension is looking for 10 farmers to volunteer their farm for bi-weekly scouting throughout the 2022 growing season.

By amassing three years of data (2022-2024) on important variables of a field’s productivity, data can be related to farm profitability outcomes. After successful validation in 2024, the tool will be converted to a user-friendly online cropping system decision tool. This will be an open source, big data tool with the potential to provide farmers field level information for optimal cropping systems and management practices that can increase farm profitability. By including Minnesota farmer data while building this tool, it ensures that the tool will be calibrated for use

by Minnesota farmers.

Surveys will require information on field location and detailed information on crop/field/input manage-

ment, such as planting date, soybean variety and tillage method. Farmers will be asked to supply field average yields as well as uploaded yield monitor data for each field. Survey information will be combined with data on yield-limiting biotic factors, yield, soil properties, in-season weather, and remote sensing data.

This project will require in-season scouting in a select set of soybean fields and will take place on a bi-weekly basis. Selected fields will be chosen specifically to allow for large environmental variability and expected pest pressure. Scouting will occur in all three years of the project to examine year-to-year weather and pest presence variation.

Individual field data and farmer contact information will be kept strictly confidential. Contact your local Extension educator for additional information.

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

When starting Mile Four, Huebner worked very closely with a nutritionist so they could offer wellbalanced feed products for each phase of a laying hen’s life — as well as feeds for hen production.

“There are many people selling chicken feed of different varieties. Our big thing is non-GMO, organic, nonmedicated and U.S.-only grains. That is how we differentiate ourselves in the market,” noted Huebner.

Mile Four products begin with a starter feed, move to a grower feed, and end with a layer feed. Huebner said they offer a whole grain product, a pelleted feed and a mash, with the whole grain being their most popular feed.

Mile Four uses organic field peas and organic wheat as their two main feedstuffs. They also offer extras such as grit to help with healthy gizzard development, calcium supplements for stronger eggshells, and scratch as a little treat for the hard-working layers. Huebner says, “People can see a noticeable difference in their eggs and egg colors, and the feathers or plumage of their chickens and that’s what they want.”

The springtime rush is no stranger to the folks at Mile Four. Huebner says people usually like to purchase chicks in the spring, so their busy season is coming up with new customer acquisition on the rise.

Mile Four offers sample feeds and products for new customers to try and Huebner said those new customers tend to stick around. “Customers tend to see their hens more as pets or family members and really care about what they feed their chickens — who, in turn, provide eggs for their families.”

Owning a web-based chicken feed company is not without a unique set of challenges. Huebner and company faced difficulties related to Covid — as did many businesses. “Covid-related trucking delays and trucking cost volatility were a large challenge,” he said. “USPS was so backed up last year we changed vendors — which made us redo all of our packaging, pricing and shipping.”

If you find yourself driving around in Minneapolis, you will not find a Mile Four storefront. “We sell chicken feed on the internet,” Huebner said chuckling. You can find them, however, on all of the major platforms such as Amazon and Chewy as well as their website www.milefour.com. You can also find Mile Four products at Egg|Plant Urban Farm Supply in St. Paul. v BACKED BY A YEAR-ROUND

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THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

Connections are vital to maintaining mental health

By KRISTIN KVENO Mental health outreach continues in various forms The MDA has a helpline for people to connect to a The Land Staff Writer through the MDA. The National Institute of Food rural mental health specialist. There is also the option and Agriculture awarded the MDA and 11 project to text or e-mail. “Some age groups are more comfortEnding the stigma of mental health partners grants to address farm stress and mental able reaching out in text… Sometimes it’s easier to is vital for all; but how do we do that, health in Minnesota. These partners will work on reach out to someone you don’t know. It’s an opportuespecially in rural areas? That’s initiatives across the state ranging from expanding nity to unburden themselves,” Moynihan said. what Meg Moynihan, senior advisor farm advocates opportunities to suicide prevention with the Minnesota Department of Monica McConkey is one of the two rural mental train-the-trainer course to traditional healing health specialists in Minnesota. “I’ve been in the Agriculture, is passionate about: approaches in the indigenous communities. Each of mental health field for 25 years.” Raised on a farm in helping her fellow rural Minnesotans. Meg Moynihan these efforts is to try to reduce stress and increase northwestern Minnesota, McConkey understands “How do we make it easiest as possible for farmers to connect with people for support?” well-being in the communities they serve. the complexities and demands that Ending the stigma of reaching out when help is ag producers face. McConkey found Moynihan knows first-hand about the stresses that her calling when the Minnesota legcome from life on the farm. “Our farm went through needed is the first step in knowing things can change.

Moynihan never tires when addressing mental health islature approved funding in 2019 a difficult situation.” In 2016 the co-op no longer needs in rural Minnesota.

“We can never abandon for another mental health profescould take their milk. There was no other market for sional to work with farmers and it. Moynihan’s husband had to temporarily work off our families in stress.” farm families, and she was hired in the farm while Moynihan took a leave from the MDA Getting the information out is essential. MDA does that role. “I feel like I understand the to manage their organic dairy operation in Le Sueur this through brochures, can koozies, magnets and lifestyle. I get the drive to hold on to County. Loneliness and isolation were setting in for go-to events. “It’s an ongoing challenge, You can the family farm.”

Monica Moynihan. A brief ten-minute conversation with a never have enough outreach.”

McConkey veterinarian who stopped to check on the herd proWhen someone reaches out to vided a mood lifter. Moynihan calls that vetMcConkey, she can meet one-on-one erinarian a connector. “You lose that connecin person, via Zoom, or on a phone call. tion to other people.” She forced herself to “Seventy-five percent of the contact with farmreach out to connect with others, helping ers or farm family members is in person. Most Minnesota is working to address access to mental health care in herself find hope in the process. often at the farm around the kitchen table.” rural areas through various programs, but counties’ efforts are Farmers often put the farm and their fami- also critical in getting people connected to services.

McConkey’s free counseling services allow lies ahead of their own needs. “We put ourthe client to share their burdens and concerns Diane Erkens, the social service supervisor with Wright County, selves last.” However, Moynihan points out with her. She understands that farm life can notes there are various ways people are reaching out for help in that addressing your own needs helps the be filled with many stressors. “A farmer/farm family and the farm. “We are the most impor- the county. “There are more options for telehealth — it’s a great family, their identity is wrapped up on the tool.” tant investment.” farm, in the land.”

Erkens often sees older clients asking for in-person services. The Feeling like you’re not alone in dealing with The hesitation to address mental health struggles is essential. That’s why MDA county can accommodate in-person, telehealth or phone visits with issues remains, especially in rural communiteamed up with the Red River Farm Network clients. ties, but it continues to move in a more open Wright County is part of a four-county consortium consisting of direction. “We’ve come a long way in talking to create TransFARMation. “We started sponsoring stories about farmers navigating tough Benton, Sherburne, Stearns and Wright that the CommUNITY about stress, mental health and suicides. It’s times.” In addition to the stories airing on the Adult Mental Health Initiative supports. This initiative was cre- becoming an accepted topic.” However, RRFN, they’re also available on a podcast. ated in 1995 as way to transition mental health access from state McConkey quickly points out that we still “Key was farmers talking about stuff they’re hospitals to more community-based services. The goal is to bring have a long way to go in talking about mental services to the clients, reducing the need for hospitalization. coping with,” Moynihan said. health the same way we do about physical The four counties’ response teams typically receive over 1,000 health. Nevertheless, she encourages anyone The project initially began with five episodes, but public interest led it to expand to calls per month. Erkens has seen a slight increase in calls each struggling with their mental health not to 30 episodes. The series includes stories of month in the last year. That increase in calls could be due to a remain silent. “Reach out and talk to somedealing with the loss of a spouse to suicide, number of factors including pandemic-related isolation. If needed, body. Find a person that will listen. It doesn›t loss of a son and a farm loss. In addition, this a Crisis Response Team can respond to the person in critical situ- get better if we don’t do anything about it.” project expands to southern and central ations.

For McConkey, her desire to help farm famiMinnesota to share these stories on the Linder The county is advertising its mental health services through a lies remains steadfast. “I work with people Farm Network. The TransFARMation series’ variety of way including bulletin boards, radio ads, movie theater every day that are just like my family. I feel it popularity was due to the listeners connecting ads — any way to reach as many people as possible. There is also on a very personal level.” with the stories — whether they were going representation at local career fairs and events to get the word out: For more information on mental health serthrough the same thing or knew someone that help is available if someone is struggling with mental health vices for farmers and farm families, visit was. It was feeling like you weren’t alone. issues. h t t p s : / / w w w. m d a . s t a t e. m n . u s / a b o u t / Moynihan encourages those struggling with “Our mission is to strengthen and support our community.” So if mnfarmerstress/copingstress. The phone nummental health to look for someone to talk to, you live in Wright County and need to talk to someone, help is ber for the Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline whether a trusted family member, friend, available. “Just give us a call.” is (833) 600-2670. You can also text clergy, therapist or the MDA Helpline. “Where FARMSTRESS to 898211. Minnesota’s Rural If you are in need of help and live in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns Health Specialists are Monica McConkey, am I most comfortable being vulnerable? Be willing to try something, knowing that things and Wright contact the Four County Crisis Response Team at (320) (218) 280-7785; and Ted Matthews, (320) 266253-5555 or AskCRT@cmmhc.com. v 2390. will change.” v

Counties step up to help

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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Cheddar, butter prices drop after five weeks of gain This column was written in some plants, which pushfor the marketing week endes more milk to others. ing April 29.

Cheddar inventories are balanced to available, while U.S. butter stocks grew in other varietal cheesemakers March but remained well say their stores are balanced below a year ago. The U.S. to tight. Demand notes are Department of Agriculture’s and have been strong, says latest Cold Storage report Dairy Market News. shows the March 31 invenMIELKE MARKET tory at 283.1 million pounds.

Strong demand for cheese WEEKLY This is up 20.1 million is present in both western pounds or 7.6 percent from

By Lee Mielke domestic and international February; but were a markets, though previhefty 72.7 million ously mentioned Asian pounds or 20.4 percent buying slipped lower below those a year ago, this week. Like a brothe sixth consecutive month butter ken record, port congestion and the stocks were below the previous year. shortage of truck drivers continues to cause delays to cheese deliveries American-type cheese stocks fell to throughout the region. Inventories are 822.2 million pounds, down 9 million growing. Milk is available, allowing pounds or 1.1 percent from the plants to run busy schedules but ongoFebruary level, which was revised ing labor shortages and delayed delivdown 2.3 million pounds, and were down 12.2 million or 1.5 percent below eries of supplies are keeping output below capacity. a year ago. n The “other” category inched up to 612.8 million pounds, up just 2.2 milCash butter fell to $2.615 per pound lion or 0.4 percent from February, but on April 27 (the lowest Chicago were 900,000 pounds or 0.1 percent Mercantile Exchange price since Feb. above a year ago.

25). The price reversed direction the next day (the first gain in six sessions) The total cheese inventory stood at 1.458 billion pounds, down 8.9 million and closed April 29 at $2.675. This is up 7.5 cents on the week, 3.5 cents pounds or 0.6 percent from February, but 10.9 million or 0.7 percent above a lower on the month, but still 92.25 cents above a year ago. There were nine year ago. loads of butter sold on the week and 57 Dairy prices were mixed the last for the month, down from 99 in March. week of April. The cheddar blocks Cream is reportedly available for closed on April 29 at $2.37 per pound. butter producers both within the This is down 2.25 cents on the week, Central region and from the West, ending five consecutive weeks of gain, but 7.5 cents above where they were on according to Dairy Market News. Bulk April 1, and 57 cents above a year ago. butter remains tight and at a premium. Contacts have mixed views The barrels finished the month at regarding late summer and fall inven$2.34, 3 cents lower on the week but tories. Domestic demand is steadily 8.75 cents above their April 1 perch, hearty week over week and global 50.5 cents above a year ago, and 3 inquiries are not expected to ebb in cents below the blocks. the near term; so many expect butter Sales totaled three cars of block for stores to be short. And, while market the week and 33 for the month of April, prices have fallen, marketers do not down from 38 in March. Barrel sales view the big picture as bearish, says totaled 12 for the week and 75 for the Dairy Market News. “Globally short month, down from 108 in March. milkfat, continued domestic food service strengths, and worker-supply Milk is readily available for cheese production in the Midwest, according to chain shortages at the plant level are Dairy Market News, but staffing short- inimical to bears.” handedness is keeping a lid on output See MIELKE, pg. 16

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Analyze manure before application in warm weather Spring is here and for some swine producers, moving manure is an important step as the crop gets planted. University of Minnesota Extension Nutrient Management Specialist Melissa Wilson provides good information for farmers who need to make both nutrient management decisions and who may need to get manure out of the way.

When is the best time to apply manure?

That depends on the logistics of each farm, weather, and soil conditions. It is also influenced by what risks you are willing to take. Those risks include losing nutrients if the manure is applied too early; running out of storage for the manure; reducing time for nutrients to release if the manure is applied too late; and having a wet and/or cold spring which could delay manure application and then planting.

As producers consider planting season activities, they’re encouraged to take a look at potential spring or summer application and evaluate the pros and cons of each. Springtime manure application pros include the fact that manure is available closer to when a growing crop will begin using the nutrients and the chance of nutrient losses is lower. The cons of spring application are that manure with high organic matter may have less time to break down and nitrogen release may be slower than expected.

In addition, if soil conditions are poor, delaying manure application may further delay planting.

Wilson’s recommendations are to wait until snowmelt has occurred and the soil is completely thawed.

Avoid applying on wet soil to reduce compaction.

Wilson and her team have completed several years’ research on growing season application of manure directly into young crops. Here are the pros and cons of summer manure application. The pros are that a producer can apply manure directly to a growing crop and reduce nutrient losses. Growing season application also gives farmers another window of opportunity for applying manure. Some of the disadvantages of summer application are that a producer would need specialized equipment and growing season application may not be ideal for timing of livestock operations or solid manures. Dr. Wilson recommends that producers interested in summer manure application Inject or incorporate manure between rows of growing crops as soon as possible to maximize nutrient value.

Manure sampling and nutrient analysis U of M Extension Educator Chryseis Modderman provides these thoughts regarding manure sampling and why producers should do it.

Manure is a valuable source of nutrients for crops.

Testing manure for nutrient content helps meet crop nutrient needs efficiently. This leads to increased profit and decreased risk of pollution.

Nutrient estimation tables give a general idea of nutrient content, but they tend to differ from actual values due to factors like storage type and animal diet. Therefore, we don’t recommend producers rely

UniversityofMinnesota

EXTENSION

SWINE &U

on those tables. The most accurate way to manage manure for nutrients is to analyze for nutrient content.

Nutrient content in manure varies from one area to another. Solids tend to setSWINE & U tle to the bottom of liquid

By Diane DeWitte storage systems. Solid storage systems vary based on bedding content and time of stacking. It is important to make the manure as uniform as possible so that the applied rate is accurate.

Use a pit agitator to mix liquid manure to make it more uniform. The solid portion of the manure will begin to settle to the bottom right after agitation.

Solid manure is more difficult to make uniform.

When piling the manure, alternate between areas with large amounts of bedding and areas of small amounts of bedding.

Manure sampling timing can change the accuracy of a manure test. We recommend taking the sample at manure application. The main drawback of this method is that you cannot use the test results to adjust application rates for the current year.

However, the results will help with future fertilizer rate calculations. Keeping detailed records of manure test results will allow for accurate rates in the following years.

Sampling in storage and before manure application allows time to receive results and adjust rates in the current season. However, nutrients are lost with further storage and handling, so it may not give an accurate picture of the nutrients applied.

This is particularly true for farms with large numbers of livestock and amounts of manure since collecting a representative sample of the manure may not be easy to do.

Manure should be tested each year for the first three years of operation; then every three or four years. Also, test whenever management practices change — which could alter nutrient content — like the storage system or feed. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency requires farms with over 100 animal units to test manure at least once every four years. Visit the MPCA website for more information (https://www.pca.state.mn.us/).

Manure sampling helps appropriate applications Just like regular soil tests help farmers know the nutrient condition of their soils, manure tests assist in making application decisions. Dr. Wilson offers these tips for collecting a through manure sample

for laboratory analysis.

Always use caution and proper safety measures while sampling manure.

The best and safest time to sample liquid manure is after the pit or lagoon has been agitated and is being pumped out. Collect 15 to 25 samples as the pit is pumped out from beginning to end. Dump into a five-gallon bucket. Mix the manure thoroughly.

Take a subsample, usually about a quart, and place in a plastic container. Freeze the sample prior to sending to the lab.

This method will not allow you to get the analysis results back prior to application for the current year. But the analysis can be used to determine whether appropriate amounts of manure were applied to meet crop needs and for estimating the Year 2 and 3 nutrient credits.

Solid manure can be sampled from the stockpile or during hauling. Using a pitchfork or shovel, collect 15 to 25 samples from many different depths in the pile — but avoid the crust. During hauling, collect several subsamples from each load. Place samples into a five-gallon bucket and mix very well.

Take a subsample and place in a sealable plastic bag, then double up the bag.

With the stockpile method, you may be able to have your manure analyzed prior to application. If sampling during hauling, you will not get the analysis results back prior to application for the current year.

Nutrient availability Nutrients are not entirely available for crop use the first year after application. This is because nutrients can change forms, and only some of these forms are available for plants to use.

When nutrients are bound to carbon they are in an organic form. If not bound to carbon, they are in an inorganic form.

Typically, plants can only use the inorganic form of nutrients, but manure supplies both organic and inorganic forms. Microbes can break down organic forms of nutrients and mineralize them into inorganic forms. However, this can take several years and depends on soil moisture and temperature conditions.

The U of M Extension nutrient management team of Wilson and Modderman are currently conducting additional research to provide best practice recommendations for warm season manure application.

They can be reached via email to answer specific See SWINE & U, pg. 13

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

PAGE 13

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

U of M reports farm income levels increase in 2021 The University of Minnesota recently higher net farm income and half have a reported that the average net farm lower net income. The average median income for southern Minnesota farmers net farm income in 2021 was +$176,426. in 2021 was $280,900, which was at the A total of 1,584 farms from throughout highest level since 2012. The very positive south central, southwest, southeast, and 2020 and 2021 net farm income levels folwest central Minnesota were included in lowed seven years (2013-2019) in a row of the 2021 FBM Summary. The average sup-par net farm income levels in the farm size was 659 acres. The top 20 perregion. cent net income farms averaged 1,611 FARM PROGRAMS acres, while the bottom 20 percent net The 2021 net farm income levels in southern and west central Minnesota income farms had 180 acres.

By Kent Thiesse were enhanced by robust crop profits Fifty-nine percent of the farm which resulted from average to operations were cash crop farms, 14 above-average crop yields and the percent were single entity livestock highest grain market prices since operations, with the balance being 2013. Livestock profit margins in 2021 in southern various combinations of crop, livestock and other Minnesota were mainly positive. However, the profit enterprises. levels were at much more modest levels than the Four hundred ten farms (26 percent) were under crop profits. $250,000 in gross farm sales in 2021; 326 farms (21 The Farm Business Management summary for percent) were between $250,000 and $500,000 in southern and west central Minnesota is prepared by gross sales; 399 farms (25 percent) were between the Farm Business Management Instructors. This $500,000 and $1 million in gross sales; and 449 summary includes an analysis of the farm business farms (28 percent) were above $1 million in gross records from farm businesses of all types and sizes sales. in southern and western Minnesota. This annual In 2021, the average farm business received farm business summary is one of the best gauges of $58,196 in government program payments, which the profitability and financial health of farm busiincluded two rounds of CFAP payments for crop and nesses in the region on an annual basis. livestock producers, some WHIP+ crop disaster payBackground data ments for 2019, CRP payments and other governFollowing are some of the key points and data ment payments. In addition, the average farm operthat were in the 2021 FBM Summary: ation received $8,377 in crop insurance payments, The net farm income is the return to labor and which was about half of the 2020 level of crop insurmanagement after crop and livestock inventory ance payments. The combination of one-time Covid adjustments, capital adjustments, depreciation, etc. relief payments and crop disaster payments, togethhave been accounted for. This is the amount that er with regular farm program payments and crop remains for family living, non-farm capital purchas- insurance payments, accounted for approximately es, income tax payments, and for principal pay23 percent of the 2021 average net farm income. ments on farm real estate and term loans.

This compared to 2020, when government payments The “median” net farm income is the midpoint net and crop insurance payments totaled over $126,000 and made up about 74 percent of the average net farm income of all farm operations included in the FBM summary — meaning half of the farms have a farm income.

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The average family living expense in 2021 was $66,335, which increased slightly compared to recent years. The average non-farm income in 2021 was $46,943, which represents about 45 percent of total annual non-farm expenses by families for family living and other uses.

In 2021, the average farm business spent $1,109,001 for farm business operating expenses, capital purchases, and non-farm expenses. Most of these dollars were spent in local communities across the region, helping support the area’s overall economy.

Farm financial analysis The average net farm income for southern and See THIESSE, pg. 14

30 COLORS

26-29 GAUGE Standard all around durability

30 COLORS

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

30 COLORS

26-29 GAUGE Residential and round roof applications

Swine & U SWINE & U, from pg. 12

questions, Chryseis Modderman: cmodderm@umn. edu, and Melissa Wilson: wilso984@umn.edu, and their latest findings are available through the U of M Extension Crops website at https://extension. umn.edu/crop-production.

Diane DeWitte is a Swine Educator with the University of Minnesota Extension, based in Mankato.

She can be reached at stouf002@umn.edu. v

30 COLORS

26 GAUGE

Commercial and Perlin applications

PAGE 14

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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

Farmers’ financial health improved in 2020 and 2021 THIESSE, from pg. 13

estate and term loans. If that ratio falls below 100 cover the difference. The average term debt coverpercent, it results in farm operators having to use to age ratio for 2021 was at the healthy level of 389 west central Minnesota for 2021 was $280,900, use working capital or non-farm income sources to percent, which compares to average ratios 274 perwhile the median net farm income cent in 2020, 148 percent in 2019, 91 for the region was $176,426. This percent in 2018, 102 percent in Five-Year Farm Business Management Comparison compares to median net farm income 2017, and 90 percent in 2016.

(Data from the 2021 Southern Minnesota Farm Business Management Annual Report) levels of $102,848 in 2020, $36,547 However, the low 20 percent profitFarm Income Data 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 in 2019, $20,655 in 2018, $25,377 in ability farms had a term debt cover2017, and $33,071 in 2016.

Gross Farm Sales $774,349 $759,254 $771,105 $830,344 $967,436 age ratio of only 109 percent in As usual, there was large variation 2021.

Total Farm Cash Expense $680,554 $675,400 $675,013 $700,336 $790,104 in median farm income in 2021, with Any additional cash flow dollars Median Net Farm Income $25,337 $20,655 $36,547 $102,848 $176,426 top 20 percent profitability farms over and above the term debt princiTop 20 Percent Median averaging a net farm income of pal and interest payments earned by Net Farm Income $199,320 $158,785 $242,696 $401,000 $620,578 +$620,678, and the low 20 percent farm operation are available for profitability farms with an average Low 20 Percent Median machinery replacement or other capnet farm income of only +$12,706.

Net Farm Income ($61,158) ($79,757) ($43,183) $ 369 $12,706 ital improvements. In 2021, the The variation in median net farm average farm had $218,132 available Financial Ratios (Average) income in 2021 also tracked very for those purposes, while top 20 perclosely with the gross farm receipts cent profitability farms had over Operating Profit Margin 5.8% 3.2% 10.1% 20.6% 27.5% of farms. Farms with $1 to $2 mil$675,000 available. This helps Current Ratio 157% 151% 156% 198% 247% lion in gross receipts had a median explain the strong demand for new Working Capital/ net farm income of +$401,268, comand used farm machinery, plans for Gross Income Ratio 25.6% 23.2% 23.8% 32.6% 41.3% pared to +$243,803 for farms with a grain system improvements, and gross of $500,000 to $1 million, other farm and non-farm upgrades Farm Debt/Asset Ratio 45% 49% 46% 44% 44% +$136,300 for farms with a gross of that has occurred in recent months.

Term Debt Coverage Ratio 102% 91% 148% 274% 389% $250,000 to $500,000, and +$65,398 Bottom line… for farms with a gross of $100,00 to Crop Data — Corn (Cash Rent Land) Overall, net returns from both crop $250,000. and livestock operations were much Yield per Acre (bushels) 215 179 183 206 203 Interestingly, when you look at improved for most farm operators in Price per Bushel $3.24 $3.48 $3.75 $4.04 $5.36 profit margin, the order is reversed, 2021. However, as usual, there was a Gross Revenue per Acre $711.55 $674.25 $789.72 $896.62 $1,107.53 with the $100,000 to $250,000 group wide variation in farm profit levels at 39 percent profit margin, the from the top one-third of net farm Direct & Overhead $250,000 to $500,000 group at 36 income operations as compared to Costs per Acre $748.29 $731.51 $745.92 $735.65 $791.94 percent profit margin, the $500,000 other farms. The overall average Cost per Bushel Produced $3.48 $4.08 $4.08 $3.58 $3.90 to $1 million group at 29 percent financial health of many farm busiprofit margin, and the $1 to $2 milnesses improved significantly in Net Return per Acre ($36.75) ($57.26) +$43.80 +$160.97 +$315.59 lion group at 27 percent profit mar2020 and 2021 after declining for Crop Data — Soybeans (Cash Rent Land) gin. several years due to low profit levels. Farm profit levels remain favorYield per Acre (bushels) 55 54 51 60 61 The average farm business showed able for 2021. a significant improvements in the Price per Bushel $9.25 $8.73 $8.82 $10.21 $12.50 working capital in 2021, compared However, there are some caution Gross Revenue per Acre (*) $526.85 $588.80 $538.87 $664.06 $767.12 to 2020, with a large increase in flags on the horizon. These include Direct & Overhead average working capital ($454,239 rapidly increasing input expenses Costs per Acre $498.74 $495.13 $498.27 $497.51 $536.18 from $295,493), a significant and land costs, potential future increase in the current ratio (247 declines in grain and livestock marCost per Bushel Produced $9.02 $9.17 $9.71 $8.32 $8.83 percent from 198 percent), and a ket prices, and likely lower levels of Net Return per Acre +$28.11 +$93.11 +$40.60 +$166.65 +$230.94 large increase in the working capital government payments. to gross revenue ratio (41 percent from 32 percent) The working capital had declined significantly and was a major concern for many farm operations prior to 2020, before showing significant improvement in both 2020 and 2021.

Another measure of the financial health of a farm operation is the term debt coverage ratio, which measures the ability of farm operations to generate adequate net farm income to cover the principal and interest payments on existing real

Livestock Data — Net Return Over Expenses Dairy – Per Cow Beef Cow – Per Cow Beef Finishing – Per Cwt. Hog Finishing – Per Cwt.

+$343

($38)

+$403

+$964

+$208

($19) +$21.44 +$5.64

($54) ($4.19) ($4.01)

($223) +$1.47 +$2.53

($29) +$8.03 +$8.69

($166) +$3.53 +$6.79

NOTES: Net Returns for crops and livestock are before labor and management charges.

Crop net returns include crop insurance and government farm program payments. (*) The Gross Revenue per Acre for 2019 and 2020 includes fairly high levels of one-time government farm program payments.

Table was developed by Kent Thiesse, Farm Management Analyst

Complete farm management results are available through the University of Minnesota Center for Farm Management FINBIN Program at http://www.finbin.umn. edu/ Kent Thiesse is a government farm programs analyst and a vice president at MinnStar Bank in Lake Crystal, Minn. He may be reached at (507) 726-2137 or kent.thiesse@ minnstarbank.com. v

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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PAGE 15

MARKETING

Grain Outlook

$8 corn not attracting many sellers The following marketing analysis is for the week ending April 29.

CORN — It felt like momentum was slowing down in the uptrend in corn last week, but this week’s action erased that thought. New contract highs were once again set in old and new crop contracts as U.S. and South American weather issues continue to plague the markets; Ukraine’s situation has not improved; China reappeared to buy U.S. corn; and money flowed into the agricultural sector. Spot corn on the Chicago Board of Trade closed at its highest level since August 2012.

U.S. corn planting was 7 percent complete as of April 24. PHYLLIS NYSTROM This was the slowest since 2013 CHS Hedging Inc. and behind the 15 percent averSt. Paul age. Usually, 50 percent of the total corn acreage is planted by May 8. With the current forecasts, it is likely we’ll fall further behind over the next 7-10 days. The University of Illinois reports it takes a minimum of 14 days to plant the U.S. corn crop. They estimate that 80 percent of the Illinois corn crop can be planted by May 10, using current weather data. However, further delays could mean a larger-than-normal number of corn acres may be planted late. From my perspective, the early corn planting is off the table, but it’s too early to go into Debbie Downer mode and say the final yield will be negatively affected. We have the entire growing season ahead of us. However, La Niña is anticipated to extend through the summer with cool, dry conditions forecasted.

Dryness in Brazil’s safrinha corn areas is stressing the crop and it won’t be a surprise if we see production estimates begin to be lowered. It’s estimated that 65 percent of Brazil’s safrinha corn crop is under some level of stress due to a lack of rain. The country’s top safrinha corn region of Mato Grosso had just 40 percent of normal rainfall in April. The situation is similar to 2016 when it stayed dry and safrinha corn yields declined 30 percent. Brazil’s first corn harvest is 82 percent complete, 1 percent behind the average. The U.S. Department of Agriculture attaché in Argentina set their corn crop at 51.5 million metric tons compared to the USDA outlook of 53 mmt. The Buenos Aires Grain Exchange puts Argentina’s corn harvest at 24.6 percent complete as of April 28.

Ukraine has planted about 25 percent of its fore-

Cash Grain Markets corn/change* St. Cloud $7.68 +.04 Madison $7.78 -.07 Redwood Falls $7.76 -.06 Fergus Falls $7.63 -.07 Morris $7.73 -.07 Tracy $7.70 -.06 Average:

soybeans/change* $16.01 $15.76 $15.76 $15.81 $15.80 $15.70

-.65 -.61 -.56 -.61 -.62 -.62

$7.71

$15.81

Year Ago Average: $5.88

$14.46

Grain prices are effective cash close on May 3. *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.

cast spring acreage. Disarming land mines in fields makes planting dangerous and slow. Ukraine was able to load its first panamax of corn carrying 763,000 metric tons since the invasion. The shipment was made from Romania’s Constanta port after shipping the grain by rail to the port. Before the invasion, they were shipping 6 mmt per month. Russian bombing has damaged port facilities in Odesa and a key railroad bridge linking potential grain rail exports to export ports on the Danube River.

Weekly export sales were disappointing compared to traders’ expectations. Old crop sales were 34.1 million bushels to bring total commitments to 2.27 billion bushels. This number is 15 percent behind last year when the USDA is calling for year-on-year exports to be 9.1 percent lower at 2.5 billion bushels.

We need to average 11.1 million bushels of sales per week to ring the bell. China has 245.4 million bushels of corn left to ship in this marketing year compared to 491.3 million unshipped bushels last year.

New crop sales were 33.2 million bushels. Total 202223 export commitments stand at 165.6 million bushels compared to 105.7 million bushels on the books last year by this date. China has purchased 345.8 million bushels of 2022-23 U.S. corn compared to 421.2 million new crop purchases by this date last year.

Weekly ethanol production increased 16,000 barrels per day to 963,000 bpd when we need 1.04 million bpd to hit the USDA’s corn for ethanol estimate of 5.375 billion bushels. Ethanol stocks fell 300,000 barrels to 24 million barrels. This was the fourth consecutive week of declines, but stocks are still the highest on record for this week. Stocks are up 21.4 percent from last year. Margins improved 12 cents to 29 cents per gallon. Weekly gasoline demand fell slightly to 8.7 million bpd and is down 1.6 percent from the same week last year. Calendar 2022 year-todate gasoline demand is up 3.8 percent vs. last year.

The administration is proposing providing an additional $33 billion in Ukrainian aid, including $500 million for U.S. domestic ag production. Included in the proposal was to increase commodity loan rates

for two years and extend the loan term to 12 months for 2022, provide a $10 per acre incentive (paid through crop insurance premiums) to producers who double-crop soybeans and wheat. The load rates would increase for soybeans from the current $6.20 to $8.68 per bushel and wheat from the current $3.38 to $5.52 per bushel.

Outlook: Fund buying action was apparent this week. Despite $8 per bushel for cash bushels being paid for a brief time in the upper Midwest, grower selling was not overpowering. The market hasn’t given the money men a definitive reason to exit their big, net long positions. The fund length has not reached record levels. There are enough uncertainties surrounding global weather, production, and demand to keep buyers interested.

For the week, July corn rallied 24.5 cents to close at $8.13.5 and December jumped 26.75 cents to close at $7.51.25 per bushel.

New daily trading limits go into effect May 1 at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Corn will go from 35 cents to 50 cents, soybeans will go from 90 cents to $1.15, meal will go from $25 to $30 per ton, soyoil will increase from 4 to 5 cents per pound, and Chicago and Kansas City wheat will go from 85 cents to 70 cents per bushel. The next World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates report will be released on May 12 and will include our first look at the 2022-23 balance sheets.

SOYBEANS — The soyoil market was the leader in the complex this week after Indonesia announced they were banning crude palm oil and refined palm oil product exports. Soyoil, canola, and palm all soared to either new contract highs or record highs.

Soyoil traded to record levels.

The U.S. dollar has surged to a five-year high, the Japanese yen dropped to a 20-year vs. the U.S. dollar, the euro fell to a five-year low vs. the dollar and the Brazilian real has fallen to levels where its soybeans are cheaper than U.S. origin for June and prompted Brazilian farmers to add to sales. A stronger U.S. dollar normally would lead to pressure on ag commodities as it makes them more expensive on the world market.

U.S. soybean planted as of April 24 was 3 percent complete compared to 5 percent on average.

Indonesia’s clarified its ban on palm oil exports.

They announced crude palm oil, as well as refined palm oil products, would be banned until domestic prices are under control. The Indonesia Palm Oil Board believes the export ban will only last until May. Germany conditionally lifted its opposition to an EU ban on Russian crude oil imports. The Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel energy contract skyrocketed.

Canada’s canola acres are estimated to decline 7 percent this year to 20.9 million acres and production to fall to a 14-year low. This adds support to world vegetable oil markets.

See NYSTROM, pg. 16

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

PAGE 16

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

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

Weather here and abroad will tell the tale for soybeans NYSTROM, from pg. 15 Weekly export sales were as expected at 17.7 million bushels, bringing total commitments to 2.115 billion bushels. This is down 6 percent from last year when the USDA is projecting a year-on-year decline of 6.5 percent. We need sales to average a miniscule1.3 million bushels per week to achieve the USDA outlook. New crop sales were 21.3 million bushels. For mid-April, new crop soybean sales are a record 394.7 million bushels. Last year, new crop sales were only 243.6 million bushels. China has purchased 257.2 million bushels of 2022-23 soybeans when last year they had not bought any new crop

soybeans by this date.

The USDA attaché in Argentina pegged soybean production at 41 mmt vs. USDA’s 43.5 mmt projection. The BAGE put Argentina’s soybean harvest at 46 percent complete as of April 28.

Outlook: Soybean action was more mixed during the week with July soybeans struggling to stay above $17.00 per bushel. For the week, July soybeans closed 3.25 cents lower at $16.84.75 and the November contract gained 9.5 cents to settle at $15.14.75 per bushel. Factors to watch in soybeans include soyoil action, Chinese demand, crush margins, and residual effects from the war in Ukraine.

Keep your eye on the ball and manage your risk as you see fit. If the weather makes a turn for the better here and in South America, we could find ourselves scrambling to make catch-up sales. But until an event shakes the current longs out of their comfort zone, the downside is likely limited.

Weekly price changes in July wheat for the week ended April 29: Chicago wheat dropped 19.5 cents to $10.55.75, Kansas City plunged 43.75 cents to $11.05.75, and Minneapolis was 3.25 cents higher at $11.66 per bushel. New contract highs were set in Minneapolis wheat during the week. v

Sugar beet processing is on a 24/7 schedule

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus RENVILLE, Minn. — Always an informative visit for me is my annual spring interview with Todd Geselius, Vice President of Agriculture with the Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative.

Todd Geselius With nearly 500 shareholder/growers across 17 counties, this co-op is the largest farmer-owned sugar beet processing company in the United States. In 2020, SMBSC growers planted approximately 121,350 acres producing just under 3.6 million harvested tons. So on March 30 with fresh snow still blanketing much of the countryside, Todd welcomed me into his office for a quick question-andanswer session.

The Land: You had a tremendous harvest last year. Was it your biggest ever?

Geselius: It was amongst the biggest ever. On planted acres we averaged about 29.2 tons per acre.

Yes, 2021 was a very big crop.

The Land: So what are sugar beet acres likely to be for 2022?

Geselius: Our Board has decided to widen out our planting tolerance. Growers get a planting tolerance based on how many shares they own in the co-op. If we say the planting tolerance is 100 percent, that means if you own 100 shares you can plant 100 acres.

We usually give a range to allow shareholders some flexibility to maintain crop rotation intervals. So our range this year is 90 to 105 percent, which we are expecting to result in a few less acres than last year.

The Land: And how is this 45-year old factory working today?

Geselius: Some ups and downs just like every season; but our dedicated staff keeps this factory humming. We installed some new equipment last fall which took some time to get functioning as desired.

Daily slice averages about 12,000 tons per day when we are slicing frozen beets in the spring, so that’s currently about a normal pace.

The Land: I still see a huge piling site just east of Buffalo Lake. You have a factory still in high gear, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, so when are you likely to finish this campaign?

Geselius: The Buffalo Lake piling site will be next, after we finish the Murdoc piling site. We have 12 piling sites located across our 17-county production area. Our goal is always to process the entire harvested crop.

The Land: How many years for you, Todd, here at this facility?

Geselius: I’ve been in this role since 2010. It’s been a great industry to be a part of. Yes, the sugar beet and sugar cane industries have been pretty stable over the years. Today, about 54-55 percent of U.S. sugar production comes from sugar beets, the rest from sugar cane in the south. Yet we continue to be a net importer of sugar as domestic production is not able to keep up with U.S. sugar consumption.

The Land: Are there any precautions for growers as they make ready for 2022 sugar beet plantings?

Geselius: Like I always say, “It all depends upon the weather.” Right now I’m concerned about how deep this winter’s freezing temps worked into the

ground. At some point we’re going to need a warm rain to drive out some of that frost permeating our top soils.

The Land: And the impact of the U.S. inflation on your growers and your employees?

Geselius: For growers, the obvious … significant increases of all their production costs and that puts more pressure on the entire system. We’re blessed with tremendously well-informed growers. They adjust as needed. They are good stewards of their machinery and their soils. I salute them for their competitive spirits, courageous families and generous hearts always willing to help their neighbors as needed.

The Land: Do growers use their own equipment when battling troublesome weeds, like glyphosateresistant water hemp and other pests or use a co-op’s rigs and crews or aerial applicators with an airplane attack?

Geselius: Some, or all of those. It depends on their individual situation. Most of our guys either do their own or hire the local coop. But some things need to be done by aerial applicators. Suffice to say, when it’s wet out, it’s aerial applicators to the rescue! v

Ice cream makers are buying cream MIELKE, from pg. 11

Grade A nonfat dry milk fell to $1.7075 per pound on April 25 (the lowest since Jan. 6), but it rallied Cream inventories are steadily available in the on April 17 (the first gain in eight sessions) and West. Contacts report that demand is steady from closed April 29 at $1.755. The price remains purchasers in other regions. Regional ice cream unchanged on the week, 9.5 cents lower on the makers continue to purchase loads of cream. month, but 43 cents above a year ago. There were Demand for butter is steady to lower in both food eight sales on the week and 55 for the month, down service and retail markets and the higher prices from 82 a month ago. caused some retail customers to start utilizing alterStoneX points out that Russia has suspended natives to butter. Butter makers in the region say shipments of natural gas to Poland and Bulgaria as they are running busy schedules to meet current they are not being paid in rubles. “This was a new demand and to build inventory, but labor shortages and delayed deliveries of supplies continues to keep requirement imposed by Russia to bolster their currency,” says StoneX, “but many countries have been plants from running at capacity, according to Dairy Market News.

See MIELKE, pg. 17

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

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

PAGE 17

Chinese dairy consumption has surged since pandemic MIELKE, from pg. 16 unwilling or unable to pay this way. From a dairy perspective, this is calling into question the ability to produce skim milk powder in certain parts of Europe.”

Whey fell to 57.5 cents per pound on April 25 (the lowest since Sept. 27), but regained 3 cents by the end of the week to close at 60.5 cents per pound.

This is down 3 cents on the week, a half-cent below its April 1 post, and 5.5 cents below a year ago.

There were 10 sales on the week and 33 for the month, up from 19 in March. n Sentiment was mixed at this week’s annual conference of the American Dairy Products Institute and American Butter Institute, according to StoneX Dairy staff, underscored by tremendous supply chain issues which have not abated.

“On the slightly bearish side there seems to be some evidence that buyers are willing to push out delivery times perhaps indicating they have built up enough extra inventory for now. On bullish side, milk is still snug. Normally this is the meeting we hear all about too much milk. We didn’t hear that this time. While processors seem to have enough milk, the lack of abundance here in mid-April has some concerned what fresh milk supplies will look like come July or August.”

Speaking in the May 2 “Dairy Radio Now” broadcast, Matt Gould, analyst and editor of the Dairy and Food Market Analyst newsletter, said there was a lot of optimism about exports at the conference, with many deals being made there, but on the other hand, there was pessimism regarding China’s lockdowns.

Gould reported there are about 500 ships anchored off the coast, waiting to unload in China, and those ships have about a fifth of the world’s shipping containers on them, which has worsened the container shortage in the rest of the globe. He said it will take two months to clear, once China ends the lockdowns.

Meanwhile, Gould’s April 22 issue reported on the concern over $8.00 per bushel corn that dairy farmers face and stated, “At current feed prices, we estimate the average cost of production in the second quarter is above $23.00 per cwt. for farmers that are purchasing feed.”

When asked about it, Gould warned a corn price that high means “We can’t stomach much of a decrease in dairy product prices and resulting milk prices; because it won’t take much to fall below that level. That’s a really high number.”

Gould believes Chinese dairy imports will continue to lag below year-ago levels through second quarter, due to the Covid lockdowns — the biggest occurring in Shanghai, but new cases are being seen in Beijing.

The good news, according to the Analyst, is “Chinese dairy consumption surged since the pandemic. Consumption of dairy set a new high and increased by 12 percent last year to 42.3 kilograms per person, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. That increase is massive. It works out to about 15 billion pounds of milk or the output of more than 600,000 cows,” wrote Gould. n Checking the rear view mirror, the USDA’s 2020 Dairy Products Summary showed total cheese production at 13.3 billion pounds, up just 0.9 percent from 2019. Wisconsin had five additional plants on line in 2020 and California added three.

Italian varieties totaled 5.63 billion pounds, down 0.8 percent from 2019 production and accounted for 42.4 percent of total cheese output in 2020.

Mozzarella accounted for 79.1 percent of Italian production followed by Parmesan with 7.4 percent and Provolone at 6.5 percent. Wisconsin was the leading State in Italian cheese with 29.3 percent.

American type cheese hit 5.34 billion pounds, 2 percent above 2019 and accounted for 40.3 percent U.S. cheese. Wisconsin was the leading state in American output with 19.9 percent.

Butter production totaled 2.15 billion pounds, 7.6 percent above 2019. California was the leading state

with 31.1 percent of the production.

Nonfat dry milk for human consumption amounted to 1.99 billion pounds, up 7.6 percent. Skim milk powders, at 695 million pounds, were up 21.4 percent and dry whey totaled 951 million pounds, down 2.7 percent.

Milk production trends are increasing in most areas around the country, according to Dairy Market News. The exception is in the Southwest, namely Arizona, where warm spring weather is keeping milk output down year over year. Class I fluid milk demand reports are mixed throughout the country.

Firm interests in the Northeast are being offset by slowdowns in the South. A number of contacts say Class I demand is unchanged. Soon to be school closings will change that data.

Cheesemakers are clearing discounted loads of spot milk in the Midwest, ranging from $2.50 to $1.50 under Class. Condensed skim availability remains similar, but hauling/processing continues to burden milk handlers and plant managers.

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

Answers located in Classified Section

PAGE 18

Real Estate

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022 T

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

Real Estate Wanted

Merchandise

Sell your land or real estate in WANTED: Land & farms. I 20 H.D. Steel Jigs For Sheep 30 days for 0% commission. have clients looking for & Goats To Make TurnCall Ray 507-339-1272 dairy, & cash grain opera- ing Cradles Sorting & Slide tions, as well as bare land Gates, Corral & Run Panels, parcels from 40-1000 acres. Mineral Feeders, Bale FeedBoth for relocation & invest- ers, Etc. PLUS 35 Pieces Of ments. If you have even Inventory. $6,500/OBO. REthought about selling con- TIRING. 319-269-4226 tact: Paul Krueger, Farm & Land Specialist, Edina Realty, 138 Main St. W., New Your ad Prague, MN 55372. paulkrueger@edinarealty.com could be here!

(612)328-4506

Classified line ads work!

507-345-4523

507-345-4523

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

Feed Seed Hay Alfalfa, mixed hay grass hay & wheat straw.

Medium squares or round bales. Delivery available.

Call or text Leroy Ose 218-689-6675

Bins & Buildings SILO Take-down & clean up Specializing in silos in congested areas.

FULLY INSURED

507-236-9446

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

Bins & Buildings

Farm Equipment

Stormor Bins & EZ-Drys. FOR SALE: Int’l 45 vibra 100% financing w/no liens or shank digger w/ drag, 28’red tape, call Steve at Fair- 30’, excellent hyds & tires. fax Ag for an appointment. Int’l cultivator, 3pt, 30” w/ shields. 16’ Cattle & Hog 888-830-7757 panels. 50-100 steel posts.

320-769-2205

Farm Equipment

FOR SALE: Tractor tires with rims, used once, as du2013 Kubota F3080, commer- als, front Titan 8-16, $700/ cial lawn mower, 3 cyl 30HP pr; rear Armstrong 14.9-26, diesel, 4WD hydro, 1364 hrs, $1,200/pr. $1,800 for all. They 60” tilt up fabricated deck, are off of front & rear of JD steering wheel steer, bought 4710. 612-581-5002 new, nice, always shedded.

FOR SALE: 2018 John Deere $14,750/OBO. 507-440-1990 Starfire 6000 GPS, $9,000.

Case IH 25’ 496 cushion gang 2000 Demco 500 gallon big disc, w/ 3 bar harrow, $8,900; wheel sprayer, 40’ hydraulic JD 980 30’ field cult, w/ 3 fold boom, $5,000. 612-290-“ bar harrow, $7,450; JD 520 8436 20’ 3pt drill, 10” spacing w/ hyd markers, $4,750; IH 183 FOR SALE: Owatonna 8’ 12x30 flat fold vibra shank horse grain drill. Lyle Kuhns, cult, $1,950; Bradford 12T 507-835-4691 running gear, 12.5x15 tires, JD 7200 8RN planter, w/ $950. 320-769-2756 dry fert, always shedded, FOR SALE: Hardi high wheel $5,000; JD 3010 diesel, nicely sprayer 80’, 3 way nozzle, restored w/ JD 46 ldr, $8,500; 1000 gallon tank, always Caterpiller D2 bulldozer, shedded. Retiring. 507-822- runs good, needs starting engine, $4,000. 507-330-3945 2188

THE LAND — APRIL 29 /MAY 6, 2022 Farm Equipment We buy Salvage Equipment Parts Available Hammell Equip., Inc. (507)867-4910

Tractors

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

Planting Equip FOR SALE: ‘05 Case IH Steiger SGX 325 4WD tractor, 2673 hrs, 20.8-42 tires. ‘98 FNH 8970, FWA, 6900 hrs, 14.9-46 rears, 14.9-30 fronts, HID lights. new water pump, alt, turbo, etc. 701-899-3693

Please support our advertisers. Tell them you saw their ad in THE LAND.

FOR SALE: 2014 Meridian 110 BST seed tender, Honda FOR SALE: IHC 450 runs motor, elec start, corded regood, good TA, fair tires, mote, $7,500. 507-276-7785 original paint, $3,500. 507276-7785

Spraying Equip

NEW AND USED TRACTOR PARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 2006 Rogator 1074 self-proa 55, 50 Series & newer trac- pelled sprayer, 4WD, Michetors, AC-all models, Large lin tires 70%, 4100 hrs, new .

Inventory, We ship! Mark injectors, Cat eng, 80’ boom, / Heitman Tractor Salvage triple nozzles, 5 section shut g 715-673-4829 offs, 20” spacing, Foamer/ . new light bar, Raven 4000 monitor. 507-276-3174 Tillage Equip s FOR SALE: Summers 90’ ul/FOR SALE: Wil-Rich 24’ dig- timate sprayer, new 14.9-46 , ger, 4 bar harrow, nice con- tires, recent new 1500 gallon y dition, asking $4,500/OBO. tank, Raven SCS 450 monitor. 701-899-3693 D 507-227-2602 Hardi Commander Sprayer, Copy is 6.91” x 5” Wil-Rich Harrow All 2, pull 750 gal, 60’ HZ 3 section e type, 19’, new tires and has boom w/ controls, Hardi dia. rolling baskets. 701-899-3693 phragm pump, 540 PTO, trig ple nozzles, foam markers, c“Where Farm and Family Meet” 12.4x42 tires, monitor, always shedded. 952-649-8604 THE LAND...since 1976

’ ,

Real Estate Auction Monday, May 9th, 4:30 pm 24612 521st Ave, Winthrop, MN

/ , y Farm Site to sell LIVE onsite! Personal Property will be sold ONLINE ONLY! ; Terms: No buyers premium on real estate. , This Dreaming of country living? This is your chance! g This 3 bedroom, 1 3/4 bath home has a lot of potential and is set on a magnificent farm

site. Main floor master suite with a 3/4 bath and large walk-in closet, eat-in kitchen with patio door access to wrap around porch, and large rear entry way with main floor laundry and extra shower. Outbuildings include: machine shed, barn, garage with office and two sheds.

No Buyer’s Premium! For complete terms or viewing, contact Matt Mages ~ 507-276-7002 Personal Property - Online Only

Inspection: May 9, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm Lots Start Closing: May 9, 5:00 pm Pick-Up Date: May 10, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Tractors, Vehicles & Tools: JD 3020, gas, WF w/ JD 46 loader & bucket, sng hyd (has not ran in 5+ yrs); Farmall C, gas, NF w/ AW Equip belly mower (has not ran in 5+ yrs); ‘00 Buick Century, 125000 mi; JD Gator CS; Cub Cadet RZTS zero-turn mower; Cushman Golfster golf cart (not running); V-style sng stage snow blower, 3pt; pull behind PTO mower; PTO generator; wheel weights; Heavy Hauler yard cart; lawn sweep; snow blowers; lawn mowers; tillers; Lincoln arc 225 AMP welder; power, hand & yard tools; ice augers; Household, Antiques & Misc: Buffalo Farm Equipment signs, 32” x 48”; large nativity scene w/ manger on hay rack; cupolas; Globe wood stove; Hardwick’s Radio stove; Maytag washer & dryer; Crosley freezer; wagon wheels; Victor scale; Spirit of ‘76 bell on pole; Powermaster 760 BB repeater; Daisy Mod 188 BB repeater; 7-gun glass front cabinet; cast iron cookware; collection of glassware, collector plates & pottery; steins; jewelry, gold & silver; various coins, many half & silver dollars; Lane chest; Radio Flyer 80 wagon;

Gladys Woller

Broker/Auctioneer: Matt Mages, 507-276-7002, Lic 52-21-018 Auctioneers: Matt Mages, Lar r y Mages, J oe Wer sal, J oe Maidl, J ohn Goelz, & Ryan Fr oehlich Clerk: Mages Land Co & Auction Ser vice, LLC. All Items Sold “AS IS”. Buyer is responsible for pick-up, Mages Land Co. does not provide any shipping. For all full terms and bidding go to magesland.com. Not responsible for accidents. magesland.com

PAGE 19

Steffes Auction Calendar 2022 For more info, call: 1-800-726-8609 or visit our website: SteffesGroup.com

Opening May 3 & Closing May 10 at 7PM City of Fargo Fleet Equipment Auction – Ring 1, West Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening May 3 & Closing May 10 a 7PM City of Fargo Impound Vehicles Auction – Ring 2, Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening May 3 & Closing May 12 at 1PM Wright County, MN Land Auction - 37± Acres, Cokato, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 4 & Closing May 12 at 1PM Edward Melroe Farm Retirement Auction, Kulm, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening May 5 & Closing May 12 at 3PM Bottineau County, ND Bin Site Auction, Russell, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening May 5 & Closing May 12 at 7PM Nepstad Hardware & Convenience Store Retirement Auction, Grandin, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening May 6 & Closing May 10 at 12PM Online Hay Auction – Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 6 & Closing May 12 at 12PM Summit Siteworks Equipment Realignment Auction, West Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening May 6 & Closing May 11 at 10AM Online Steffes Auction – 5/11, Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction Opening May 6 & Closing May 16 at 10AM Westby Farms LLP Cattle & Forage Realignment Auction, Pelican Rapids, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 9 & Closing May 18 at 1PM Breezy Point Properties Buildable Lots Auction, Breezy Point, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 9 & Closing May 19 at 1PM Chippewa County, MN Country Home 5± Acres, Milan, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 10 & Closing May 17 at 10AM S&H Construction Retirement Auction, Velva, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening May 12 & Closing May 18 at 1PM Construction Equipment Auction, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 16 & Closing May 24 at 10AM Multi-State Bank Owned Grain Elevator Facilities Auction – 5 Tracts, Iowa, Minnesota, & North Dakota, Timed Online Auction Opening May 16 & Closing May 24 at 1PM Stearns County, MN Land Auction - 148± Acres, Augusta, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 16 & Closing May 24 at 7PM Buetow Farms Hay & Livestock Equipment Retirement Auction, Cologne, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 16 & Closing May 25 at 1PM Meeker County, MN Land Auction - 218± Acres, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 16 & Closing May 25 at 7PM Anderson Tool Sharpening Auction, Dassel, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 18 & Closing May 25 at 1PM Cougar Tree Care Excess Equipment Auction, Fargo, ND, Timed Online Auction Opening May 20 & Closing May 24 at 12PM Online Hay Auction – Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction Opening May 20 & Closing May 25 at 10AM Online Steffes Auction – 5/25, Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction

PAGE 20

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

THE LAND — APRIL 29 /MAY 6, 2022 Spraying Equip

Wanted

Cattle

Cattle

Find what you’re looking for in THE LAND

WANTED: Two or three POLLED HEREFORD BULLS, yearlings and 2 year Bronze turkey hens. olds, low birth weight, high Contact: Atlee Shetler Jr., performance, semen tested and delivery available.

27498 County Road 37, Jones Farms, Le Sueur, MN. Utica, MN 55979.

507-317-5996 Red Angus & Hereford bulls Hardi Commander 1500, one Livestock For Sale, developed on forowner, 1500 gal sprayer w/ age, Semen tested & vaccirinse tank & handwash tank, FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls nated, leading genetics for has 90’ boom w/ triple nozzle also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ growth & mothering ability. bodies & chemical inductor, Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred Colby 507-450-8303 or Doug 14.9x46 tires, has Hardi 2500 (Mike) Kemen 320-598-3790 507-458-5421 Rushford MN monitor, field ready, $12,000/ OBO. 763-286-2868

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

Hay & Forage Equipment Bale Conveyor, 90’, 2 motors, Best Offer. Henderson, MN 56044. 507-602-0752 FOR SALE: 4th cut alfalfa hay. 23% protein, 3x3x8 big squares, asking $200/ton.

507-227-2602

Grain Handling Equipment

PLANNING AN AUCTION?

Cattle 9

Angus and Sim-Angus cow/calf pairs. Registration and DNA on cows. $2,500 a pair. (507) 626-1183

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WANTED

FOR SALE: 10x66 Feterl auger, w/ mechanical swing hopper, asking $2,500. 507877-2036

Wanted All kinds of New & Used farm equipment - disc chisels, field cults, planters, soil finishers, cornheads, feed mills, discs, balers, haybines, etc. 507438-9782 WANTED: Hanson Posi-trac Ring Drive Silo Unloaders.

20’, 18’, 16’, or 14’.

RISTAU FARM SERVICE 507.765.3873

DAMAGED GRAIN STATEWIDE

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

Trucks and vacs available.

Immediate response anywhere.

CALL FOR A QUOTE TODAY

PRUESS ELEV., INC.

ristaufarmservice@gmail.com

1-800-828-6642 • 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

PAGE 21

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FOR THE BEST DEAL ORDER NOW!

GREENWALD FARM CENTER Greenwald, MN • 320-987-3177 14 miles So. of Sauk Centre

Registered Hereford yearling bulls for sale. Have all shots, semen tested & poured. Halter broke & broke to lead. Fantastic growth E.P.D.’s. Will deliver. Klages Herefords, Ortonville, MN 320-2732163(H) 605-880-0521(C)

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

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

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 White 6531 31R-15”…..................................… Just In Taking 2023 New Spring Orders COMBINES NEW Geringhoff chopping cornhead ................... Call ’89 Gleaner R60 w/both heads ........................ $15,500 Gleaner R50/320,630........................................ $13,500 Gleaner R6 w/20’................................................ $9,850 Geringhoff parts & heads available

TILLAGE MISCELLANEOUS ’11 Sunflower 4412-07 .............................. $28,000 ’06 CIH MRX 690 .................................... $16,500 NEW Salford RTS Units ........................................ Call CIH 490 30’ disc .......................................... SOLD NEW Unverferth Seed Tenders .............................. Call CIH 730B w/leads ..................................... Coming NEW Westfield Augers .......................................... Call NEW REM VRX Vacs. .......................................... Call NEW Hardi Sprayers ............................................. Call NEW Riteway Rollers ........................................... Call CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT 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 NEW Rock Buckets & Pallet Forks ...................... Call HAY TOOLS Pre-Owned Grain Cart .................................. On Hand New Disc Mowers - 107,108,109 New Horsch Jokers ................................................ Call New Disc Mower Cond. - 10’, 13’ New Wheel Rakes - 10,12,14 NOW HIRING PARTS TECHS New NH Hay Tools - ON HAND

Thank You For Your Business!

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

Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:00 • Sat. 7:30-Noon

PAGE 22

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022 T

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

Swine

Industrial & Construction

Pets & Supplies

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

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

Sheep 400 ewe lambs from OPP tested negative flock. 605-8648811 or 605-997-2060

Trucks & Trailers

Miscellaneous

2013 Uni-Hydro

Mankato Pet Cremation 1993 Ford F250 3/4 ton, 2WD, BALE SPEAR $50.00 is family owned & operated. extended cab, 8’ box, 460 BALE FORK $75.00 105 Ton IRON Offering pre-planning, urns, V8 at under 89K miles, min- CALL 320-779-0298 WORKER, Model P105-24, 12 imum rust, spend many and in-home euthanasia by Inch Depth 1/2x24” Flat or winters in Texas or storage, PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS Gentle Goodbyes.

1/2x6x6 Angle. Notching Lots $4,800. Located South St. New pumps & parts on hand. mankatopetcremation.com of Punches Etc. Like New Call Minnesota’s largest disPaul area. 612-803-5034 507-995-7126 or text us.

Used Very Little. tributor 319-269-4226 or 319-347-6150 HJ Olson & Company Sell your farm equipment Classified line ads work! 320-974-8990 Cell - 320-212-5336 in The Land with a line ad.

507-345-4523

FARM & RECREATIONAL LAND AUCTION

320.53 Acres +/- in Adrian Twp., Watonwan Co., MN Tuesday, May 24, 2022 @ 10:00 AM

Auction to be held at the Darfur Community Hall at 204 Adrian St N, Darfur MN

PROPERTY LOCATION: From Darfur, MN: Go 1 mile South on 625th Ave

Looking for something special?

Put a line ad in The Land and find it!

Call 507-345-4523

Call 507-345-4523

Thank You Farmers!

Miscellaneous REINKE IRRIGATION Sales & Service New & Used For your irrigation needs 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073 Tree trimming, cutting and removal.

Boom Truck & Insured.

Call or Text Josh Linder 507-995-7081

Farmland Auction in Renville County Thursday, June 9th at 11AM 163.29 Surveyed Acres; 158.13+/- Tillable Acres; CPI=92.1 The NE 1/4 exc building site, Section 4, Twp 116, Range 35, Winfield Twp, Renville. Co.

PROPERTY LEGAL DESCRIPTION: NW 1/4; NE 1/4 & N 6 Rods of the SE

1/4 Less 5.47 Acre Building Site in Section 32, Township 107 North, Range 33 West, Watonwan County, Minnesota. For full flyer, informational booklet and bidding details, visit WWW.LANDSERVICESUNLIMITED.COM OWNERS: LESLEY JANZEN, MICHELLE STICKEN & JASON JANZEN

This land has tile and has been surveyed.

Seller: Harlyn and Arlene Lippert Family, Owners

Visit FladeboeLand.com for more details and drone video.

AUCTIONEERS Copy is 6.91” x 5” AND SALES STAFF DUSTYN HARTUNG-507-236-7629 KEVIN, ALLEN, RYAN & CHRIS KAHLER, DOUG WEDEL, SCOTT CHRISTOPHER & DARWIN HALL

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

Real Estate Auction Thursday, May 12th, 4:30 pm 11 4th St S., Gaylord, MN 55334

Commercial Buildings to sell LIVE onsite!

Personal Property will be sold ONLINE ONLY! Taxes may apply on some items.

Terms: No buyers premium on real estate.

Main Shop: This lar ge 3,840 sqft shop would be the per fect location for a variety of industries or businesses. The east side of the building was added in 1995, it is a 36’ x 50’ shop area with 18’ ceilings, water hookups and drains, 16’ x 24’ & 14’ x 14’ overhead doors. On the west side is a second shop area with loft and 2 standard overhead doors. In between both shops features a 24’ x 30’ office and merchandise area, half bath and basement with utilities underneath.

North Shop: This building has two wor k bays with 8’ x 10’ & 10’ x 12’ overhead doors, one side has a hoist and tall ceiling for larger equipment. Attached to the shop is an office area and plumbing for a 1/2 bath.

Pole Shed: To the west of the nor th shop is a 26’ x 42’ pole shed with rock floor, sliding front doors.

For complete terms or viewing, contact Matt Mages ~ 507-276-7002 Personal Property - Online Only

Inspection: May 12, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm Lots Start Closing: May 12, 5:00 pm Pick-Up Date: May 13, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Tractor, Truck, Skid Loader: JD 3020 w/ JD 148 loader & bucket, 6903 hrs, gas, NF, Syncro, 3pt, PTO, hyd, tire chains; Allied snow blower attach, PTO; ‘95 Chevy Silverado 3500, 115000 mi, 4WD, 454 engine, dually; Bobcat 440B with snow blower & bucket attach.

Full list of Tools, Merchandise, Antiques & Miscellaneous available online at magesland.com

Buck’s Welding & Repair

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

Auctioneers: Matt Mages, Lar r y Mages, J oe Wer sal, J oe Maidl, J ohn Goelz, & Ryan Fr oehlich Clerk: Mages Land Co & Auction Ser vice, LLC. All Items Sold “AS IS”. Buyer is responsible for pick-up, Mages Land Co. does not provide any shipping. For all full terms and bidding go to magesland.com. Not responsible for accidents.

magesland.com

Answers for Mother’s Day Word Search

THE LAND — APRIL 29 /MAY 6, 2022

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

PAGE 23

Look for the upcoming County Fair Guide June 10 and June 17 Upcoming Issues of THE LAND Southern MN/Northern IA May 13, 2022 May 27, 2022 June 10, 2022 June 24, 2022*

Northern MN May 20, 2022 June 3, 2022* June 17, 2022 July 1, 2022

Deadline is 8 days prior to publication.

Indicates early deadline, 9 days prior to publication. * 418 S. Second Street • Mankato, MN 56001 Phone: 507-345-4523 or 800-657-4665 Fax: 507-345-1027

Website: www.TheLandOnline.com • e-mail: theland@TheLandOnline.com

Ask Your Auctioneer to Place Your Auction in The Land!

ADVERTISER LISTING Auctioneer Alley .................................................................. 22 Beck's Hybrids ....................................................................... 1 Eric Cooling ........................................................................ 18 Fladeboe Land ..................................................................... 22 Generac ................................................................................. 6 Greenwald Farm Center ........................................................ 21 Kannegiesser Truck ................................................................ 3 Kerkhoff Auction ................................................................. 18 Leaf Filter ............................................................................. 9 Lundeen Auctions ...........................................................18, 19 Mages Auction Service ....................................................19, 22 MN Soybean .......................................................... Cover Wrap Pruess Elevator, Inc. ............................................................ 21 Rush River Steel & Trim ...................................................... 13 Schweiss Doors .................................................................... 21 Smiths Mill Implement, Inc. ................................................. 21 Steffes Group ..................................................................19, 22 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 418 South Second Street, Mankato, MN 56001 www.thelandonline.com

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PAGE 24

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

THE LAND — APRIL 29/MAY 6, 2022

This week’s Back Roads is the work of The Land Managing Editor Paul Malchow.

Goats, kids and gardening

M

uch like small family farms are disappearing in America, family-owned garden centers are becoming rare. Mega-retailers such as Walmart and Menards now feature lawn and garden centers which buy in quantity and enjoy a deeper labor pool which keeps costs down.

Dedicated customers and a discriminating clientele are willing to pay more at a local garden center, but slim profits and a demanding workload takes a toll on the ma and pa operations.

But does Walmart have chickens and micro mini-donkeys?

South of Prior Lake, Minn. gardeners can find Queen Bee’z Lawn and Garden. A true throw-back to the garden center of yesteryear, Queen Bee’z is loaded with country charm.

Crystal Dahlgren is the owner of Queen Bee’z. She purchased the Waderich Feed and Garden operation in 2018. You can’t say Dahlgren is a naïve newcomer to the garden center business. She worked at Wederich since she was 14 years old. “Dennis is like a father to me,” she said.

“At a young age I immediately fell in love with growing all the plants,” Dahlgren went on to say. “As time went on, I knew I wanted to own it one day and that is what I worked towards.”

The bright red growing houses provide a warm welcome to shoppers. Right now they are packed with an impressive variety of plants — just waiting for a break in this cold spring to be moved outdoors. We grow all of our vegetables and herbs from seed,” explained Dahlgren.

“We grow over 50 different varieties of tomatoes and have a big selection of annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs.”

Landscapers will find a handy rock and mulch selection.

The quaint garden

Prior Lake, Minn.

shop offers a little of everything — from soil to garden products to decorations and enhancements for lawns and gardens.

But the real show lies in the rear of the garden center. A fair number of chickens are scattered about, busily grazing the yard.

They pay little mind to visitors and don’t seem the least alarmed.

The goats and pony show a curious interest; but the welcoming committee is definitely the mini-donkeys — pressing up to the fence for a close look. “My love for chickens is accidental,” Dahlgren laughed. “People who would order chicks didn’t show up to get their orders; so I just began raising them. They produce the most beautiful colored eggs which we sell in the shop. I love having families come out just to see the animals. Kids — big and small — love coming to visit and the animals love all the visitors too!”

The name Queen Bee’z came courtesy of Dahlgren’s children — who have been accompanying Dahlgren to the center since they were infants. “They said, ‘mom, you never leave the hive!

How about you name it Queen Bee’z!’”

With her daughters now working with her side-by-side, Dahlgren reflected on family. “I would really like to see more kids get involved with growing,” she said. “I’m hoping to get more involved with the community and get these kids’ hands dirty. I want to show them all the beauty that is created from growing all the things — from vegetables to trees. It’s important to show these younger kids the way we grow.”

Queen Bee’z Lawn and Garden is located at 17860 Panama Ave., Prior Lake, Minn.

Their web site can be found at https:// www.queenbeezgarden.com/ and the phone number is (952) 440-8165. v

County soybean boards across the state are coming together to use their checkoff dollars to donate soy-based shoes to local frontline workers, while bringing awareness to the benefits and versatility of soy.

Checkoff taking giant strides with new statewide promotion This summer, the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) is taking another giant leap forward to promote checkoff investments – from the farm to frontline.

“Each year, our farmer-led board tasks our team with spotlighting checkoff projects – everything from biodiesel to road sealants to tires – in unique ways,” MSR&PC CEO Tom Slunecka said. “These initiatives help inform growers throughout the state on the ways the checkoff continues to add to their bottom lines.”

MSR&PC, which directs the state’s soybean checkoff resources, is Stepping Up to amplify farmer profitability and promote the value-added uses of the “miracle bean.” Coming off the heels of the successful Driving Soy promotion, Minnesota soybean farmers are lacing up to promote value-added products while also giving back to frontline health care workers in their counties.

Minnesota soybean farmers ‘stepping up’ for frontline workers In 2020, Skechers released its GO line of footwear, which incorporates soybean oil to improve grip, stability and durability. Skechers is using the same technology featured in Goodyear Tire Company’s checkoff-supported line of soy-based tires, which incorporated soy into its rubber technology. MSR&PC promoted the soy-based tires in summer 2021 by donating sets of tires to dozens of sheriff’s departments throughout the state.

As part of the campaign, Minnesota’s 44 county boards are eligible to donate up to 50 pairs of Skechers soybased shoes to a local health care facility as a thank you for their continuous sacrifice.

The Stepping Up campaign kicks off in May and runs throughout the summer. The statewide effort strives to inform both farming and non-farming public on the environmental advantages of soybean oil and the myriad uses of soybeans. To learn more, visit mnsoybean.org/ stepping-up or follow #SoySteppingUp all summer long.

SOY: IT’S EVERYWHERE! Thanks to the soybean checkoff, consumers across the nation are now able to purchase hundreds of soybased products. From vehicle tires to running shoes to energy efficient roofing materials, these products help curb dependence on foreign oil, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, all while supporting our local farmers and rural economy.

Here are five checkoff-funded, soy-based products you can utilize today.

Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady & Assurance ComfortDrive Tires Checkoff-supported research showed soybean oil can improve tire flexibility at low temperatures, helping the rubber to remain pliable in cold weather.

Goodyear now has four lines of soy-based tires,two of which are made for everyday vehicles.

Skechers GO sneakers The soybean checkoff is putting its best foot forward on the path toward improving profitability, thanks to a collaboration with Skechers, which uses Goodyear Tire’s soy rubber technology to improve its outsoles in its line GO athletic and leisure shoes. After several test trials, Skechers determined the shoes’ rubber outsole compound featured improved durability and traction in a range of climates and conditions – ideal for Minnesota’s four seasons. It’s GO time for the soybean checkoff!

The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council oversees the investment of soybean checkoff dollars on behalf of the nearly 28,000 soybean farmers in Minnesota. This money is used to promote, educate and develop market opportunities for soybeans.

Roof Maxx Through checkoff investments and research, soybean oil is helping keep roofs over people’s heads, literally. Supported by checkoff research and development, Roof Maxx can treat about 90% of roofs, extend its life at five years per treatment and can treat the roof up to three times. In Minnesota, a Roof Maxx application could extend the life of the roof by up to 12 years. The soybean checkoff is raising the roof!

Biodiesel No checkoff, no biodiesel. Checkoff investments helped kickstart biodiesel in Minnesota and fuel its growth nationwide.

Today, homegrown biodiesel accelerates profitability by raising the price of soybeans by as much as $1 per-bushel and The environmentally friendly fuel also removes nearly 1.25 million tons of CO2 from the air. This equates to removing the emissions of a quarter-million passenger vehicles each year.

DUST seed lubricant Marketed as 20 times less abrasive to seed than Talc, Low Mu Tech’s seed lubricant, made from soy protein, is carcinogen-free and reduces health risks to farmers and the environment. DUST was developed to be a direct replacement for Graphite or Talc. Learn more at lowmutech.com.

TWO DECADES.

ONe tough fuel.

Twenty years ago, Minnesota’s soybean checkoff launched a national movement when farmers sought to improve our state’s economy and environment by using soy-based biodiesel.

Today, Minnesota’s historic 20% biodiesel blend in the summer and a 5% blend in the winter removes the emissions from nearly a quarter-million passenger vehicles each year. We’re also boosting the state’s economy – biodiesel contributes nearly $1.7 billion toward Minnesota’s economy and adds nearly 5,400 jobs.

That’s a win-win worth celebrating.

Brought to you by the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council