The Land - January 6, 2023

418 South Second St.

Mankato, MN 56001 (800) 657-4665

Vol. XLVII ❖ No. 1 32 pages, 1 section plus supplements

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Cover photo submitted

COLUMNS

Farm and Food File 4

Healthcare Focus 10

The Bookworm Sez 11 Calendar of Events 11

From My Farmhouse Kitchen 12 Swine & U 13 Marketing 22

Mielke Market Weekly 24 Auctions/Classifieds 27-31 Advertiser Listing 31 Back Roads 32

STAFF

Publisher: Steve Jameson: sjameson@mankatofreepress.com

General Manager: Deb Petterson: dpetterson@TheLandOnline.com

Managing Editor: Paul Malchow: editor@TheLandOnline.com

Staff Writer: Laura Cole: lcole@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

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Lyuda Shevtsov: auctions@thelandonline.com

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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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Dear Readers,

I want to take this opportunity to thank all of The Land’s loyal readers for their patronage and support. The Land made a few changes in 2022. It is no longer split into southern and northern zones. The same edition is mailed to all of our subscribers plus it is inserted into The Free Press. It is also available to read on two websites, thelandonline. com and mankatofreepress.com. There are a few new faces in The Land office too. One thing did not change. The Land is still committed to bringing you the latest agricultural news along with entertaining articles and photos in each issue. Every issue, our staff strives to do our best to make this happen, but we need your help.

It’s time for The Land’s annual subscription drive. In today’s issue you should have received the 2023 subscription form. In order to make sure The Land remains a “voluntary pay” magazine for farmers who qualify, we need all of our readers to take a moment and help us out. Please fill out, sign, date and return the subscription card in the handy postage paid envelope and be sure to check the boxes that relate to your farming operation too.

Your signed card is how we prove that our readers want to receive The Land. In order to qualify for lower postage rates, the post office requires verification that readers are requesting the publication. Plus local and national advertisers, whose support is essential, want to know that The Land is being requested by readers and that it is not just being mailed to a random mailing list.

You will notice that the suggested subscription price is $49.00 annually. Since paying for The Land is voluntary, this is just a suggestion. As is always the case we will welcome any donation you see fit to make.

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As a bonus, subscribers who send in a completed form will have a chance to win $400.00 in cash. On March 3, 2023 we will draw a winner from all of the subscription cards that we have received so far. We will only use the phone number or email address to contact you if you win or if we have a problem with your subscription. We will not sell your private information! We do not share phone numbers or email addresses.

Thank you in advance for taking the time to fill out and return the 2023 subscription card. Please remember to sign and date it at the bottom. A special thank you goes out to those who qualify for a free subscription and pay for it anyway, and to those of you who send in more than the suggested price. It really helps.

We respect and appreciate The Land readers and we look forward to serving you in 2023.

Sincerely,

Deb Petterson General Manager, The Land

BLUE EARTH CO.

Letcher Farm Supply Inc (507) 549-3168

CARVER CO. Dave Richter, DSM (320) 248-1794

DODGE CO. Aaron Laumann (507) 251-7221

DOUGLAS CO. Bruce Wussow (320) 766-8548

FREEBORN CO. Nielsen Seed (507) 473-0108

GRANT CO. Bruce Wussow (320) 766-8548

HOUSTON CO. Irv Schansberg (507) 724-2445 (507) 450-9463

JACKSON CO. Ackermann Farms, Jacob (507) 840-0112

LE SUEUR CO. Howie Mack Whitewater Creek Grain & Feed Inc (507) 362-4777

Tye Scott, DSM (605) 824-0559

LINCOLN CO. Enemark Seeds (507) 828-3695

LYON CO. Enemark Seeds (507) 828-3695

MARSHALL CO. Northland Ag (218) 779-2711

MCLEOD CO.

Tom Maiers Seed (320) 583-4564

MOWER CO. Aaron Laumann (507) 251-7221 Nielsen Seed (507) 473-0108

NICOLLET CO. Mark Legare (507) 276-8115

Voges Seeds (507) 766-0202 Zimmerman Seeds (507) 217-7066

OLMSTED CO. Aaron Laumann (507) 251-7221

OTTER TAIL CO. Bruce Wussow (320) 766-8548

POLK CO. Northland Ag (218) 779-2711

REDWOOD CO. Hoffman Seed (320) 579-0936

Kirk Engen, DSM (507) 240-0034

Swanson Seed Center (507) 828-0698

RENVILLE CO. Dale Filzen (320) 894-7480

Hoffman Seed (320) 579-0936

RICE CO. Howie Mack Whitewater Creek Grain & Feed Inc (507) 362-4777

SIBLEY CO. Mark Legare (507) 276-8115 Merlin Schwecke (507) 276-6900

STEELE CO. Karl Steckelberg, DSM (507) 475-0365

TODD CO. Bruce Wussow (320) 766-8548

TRAVERSE CO. Chad Birchem, DSM (320) 815-8980

WASECA CO. Howie Mack Whitewater Creek Grain & Feed Inc (507) 362-4777

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

WRIGHT CO. Austin Benzing, DSM (763) 312-0743

YELLOW MEDICINE CO. Hoffman Seed (320) 579-0936

At year’s end or beginning, it’s never too late for kindness

The future is easily predictable — especially if you have access to a photocopier and a fax machine.

At least that was the successful business plan of a central Illinois neighbor who, for decades, maintained she had received the “gift” of clairvoyance after surviving a lightning strike. Once word of her talent spread, our one-stoplight, norailroad town became a hub for people “who needed to know.”

that cost nothing: kindness. Either in person or by telephone, my neighborhood clairvoyant listened to peoples’ woes and worries before kindly offering her views — and, I guess, visions. Moreover, I never heard any complaints about her abilities, advice or fees.

haps she did) the last time we spoke, I was again raking leaves when I looked up to see her walking towards me. In the nearly 20 years we had been neighbors, I had never seen her walk, so I was momentarily struck silent.

By Alan Guebert

Two consequences of this human tide quickly became apparent. First, there was no end to it. Wave after wave of answer seekers came day after day and year after year until the neighbor died. Second, people often mistook our house for hers (identical house numbers, one street apart) and, for years, pushed our doorbell 24/7 instead of hers.

OPINION

In fact, another neighbor, the town’s long-time police chief, believed “there’s something to her” after she correctly advised him on a missing-persons case he had not asked her about. “Hey,” he told me in a solemn tone, “I don’t understand it; but I do understand why people go to her.”

Even more odd was that her trademark bee-hived hair was wrapped in what appeared to be an acre of gauze. Everything about her said “swami.”

“I wanted to thank your lovely wife for the jam she dropped by,” said the swami in a steady voice. “It was absolutely delicious.”

I’ll tell her, I stammered while staring at the gauze. Are you well? I asked.

The crush was, in fact, so large — and here’s where the photocopier and fax come in — that clients who called for appointments were instructed to photocopy their palms and fax them to her office. Later, she telephoned the senders to “read” these prints for, reportedly, $20, cash or credit.

Were her predictions accurate?

My guess is that accuracy wasn’t why people consulted her. Most, I came to surmise as I watched the parade of clients come and go, just wanted answers — any answer really — to their problems. And, for $20, cash or credit, she gave ‘em one.

I know what you’re thinking: Scam, right?

I thought the same for years — especially after answering another 2 a.m. doorbell ring. But I was wrong. What the neighbor actually sold to all those people over all those years was comfort. She wasn’t a trained counselor or licensed social worker; but she understood what people were really seeking in seeking her out.

The key to that comfort-giving was something

In all our years as neighbors, however, I only had two very brief dealings with her. Once, when raking leaves near the street we shared, her long, blue Cadillac DeVille glided to a stop and the front passenger window (she never drove) lowered in a steady electric whir.

“This house speaks to me,” she announced. And, after barely pausing, the window whirred to a close and off she was driven.

I would like to have known what my house had to say; but, alas, she either didn’t have time or I hadn’t forked over a Jackson quickly enough — so off she glided.

The second time (and while I didn’t know it, per-

“Oh,” she said, “no worries. I had a bit of brain surgery this week.” She then pivoted and slowly returned the way she had come.

Did she say brain surgery?

Later, when I tracked down my lovely spouse to report the rare, strange conversation, Catherine’s only response was “That’s odd, I took her the jelly last Christmas,” 10 months earlier.

The tardiness of the “thank you” is odd?

But, in fact, it’s never too late for kindness — even at this very late date.

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

Ag Day essay contest underway

In preparation for National Ag Day 2023 on March 21, the Agriculture Council of America is hosting an essay contest. The theme for this year is “Growing a Climate for Tomorrow: How American agriculture does it every day.”

This essay contest is divided into two categories of competition: written essay and video essay. Both are national competitions. Both winners will receive $1,000.

The contest is open to students currently enrolled in grades 9 through 12. Contestants must be a U.S. citizen and attending school in the United States. Contestants must meet all requirements to compete.

The deadline for submitting entries in the essay contest is Feb. 15.

The complete list of rules and regulations for this contest may be found online at https://www.agday. org/essay-contest

This article was submitted by the Agriculture Council of America. v

MN AG EXPO returns to Mankato Jan. 18-19

MANKATO, Minn. — MN

AG EXPO returns to the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato on Jan. 18 and 19. With a variety of presentations and large exhibit hall, the Expo seeks to generate meaningul conversations among the agriculture community.

“We’ve been working hard over the past year to find new ways to engage with our industry and think differently about how to hold a dynamic trade show in 2023,” said Joe Smentek, executive director of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association. “Our team has collaborated with our industry partners and sponsors to create a show that the farming community can learn from and have fun with.”

More than 80 exhibitors and vendors will be on the trade show floor, covering topics and business that matter to agriculture — from research to regulations to financial experts.

Panelists and breakout sessions will address issues related to carbon credits; the upcoming Farm Bill; agriculture education; farm safety; and nitrogen and water quality.

Legislative and agency leaders, including Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, are once again expected to attend MN AG EXPO and visit with farmer-leaders and exhibitors.

“Minnesota Corn Growers Association is thrilled to participate once again in the annual MN AG EXPO in January,” said Minnesota Corn Executive Director Adam Birr. “Our board, council and staff are looking forward to connecting with current and potential members to share the exciting projects we have in store for 2023 — our 45th anniversary year.”

The Minnesota Corn Growers Association, which co-sponsors MN AG EXPO, and Minnesota Soybean Growers Association are holding their annual meetings and finalizing 2023 policy resolutions on Jan. 18 and Jan. 19, respectively.

“The grassroots resolution process is very important to what we do at MSGA,” President Bob Worth said. “Those policies are our guidebook for the year and help us when we meet with the American Soybean Association during their meeting at Commodity Classic.”

Minnesota Soybean’s booth in the exhibit hall will house the latest soybean checkoff innovations and MSGA’s 2023 policy initiatives. On EXPO eve on Jan. 17, MSGA welcomes directors and industry supporters to its hospitality suite at Mankato’s Hilton Garden Inn. The suite is sponsored by Chevron Renewable Energy Group, MEG Corp and Profinium. MSGA will also hold its annual fundraiser Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. at the Loose Moose Salon in Mankato. This year’s event is “EXPO After Hours: Sports Carnival.” For $25, attendees can support MSGA’s political action committee – a program that directs funds toward candidates who have supported farm-friendly policies – by playing games, visiting with farmerdirectors, industry leaders and bidding on live silent auction items.

“What’s really fun about EXPO is we’re all gathering together as a community and preparing for the year ahead,” Worth said.

Expo attendees can learn what researchers are discovering about new uses for corn, meet Minnesota Corn board and council members at the trade show and network with growers from all over the state. MCGA’s resolution session begins Jan. 18 at 9 a.m., followed immediately by its annual meeting. MCGA is also holdings its annual silent auction and reception Jan. 18 at 4 p.m., followed by dinner and guest speaker, National Corn Growers Association lobbyist Tom Sell, who will deliver a legislative lay of the land in Washington, D.C.

Attendance is free at MN AG EXPO, but registration is required to ensure free meals. Registration runs through Jan. 6. Learn more by visiting mnagexpo.com. v

Schedule of Events

Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center

Mankato, Minnesota

January 18

8:00 a.m. ................................................................................ Carbon Credit Panel

Leading experts will discuss the benefits and break down concerns farmers may have about storing carbon; which questions farmers should be asking and what farmers should know before enrolling in a carbon program. Drew Kessler of Houston Engineering will moderate the panel, which includes Minnesota Corn Growers Association Director Bryan Biegler, Minnesota farmer A.J. Krusemark, Matthew Berger from Gislason & Hunter and other industry leaders. Following the discussion, panelists will answer questions from the audience.

9:00 a.m. ....................... Minnesota Corn Growers Association Annual Meeting

9:00 a.m. .................................................................................. Trade Show Opens

9:00 a.m. .............................................................................................CPR Training

Come for a hands-on lesson and take away a lifesaving skill. No previous CPR experience or knowledge is required to attend.

10:00 a.m. ........................ MN Ag in the Classroom hands-on learning session

Participants will complete hands-on activities that can be immediately implemented in K-12 educational settings. These activities will serve as a starting point for participants to brainstorm opportunities to grow agricultural literacy in their community. Attendees will receive free resources from the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom program to share with educators in their community. Access to free standards-based lessons, activities, videos and more will be shared!

1:00 p.m. ............................................................Making your Nitrogen go further

2:30 p.m. .........................................................................Afternoon keynote panel

This panel brings together leaders from Minnesota’s top livestock groups – the Minnesota Beef Council, Minnesota Turkey Research & Promotion Council; Minnesota Pork Board and Minnesota Milk Producers Association – to discuss how Minnesota agriculture works together to feed the world.

3:30 p.m. ............................................................................ Trade Show Reception

4:00 p.m. .................................................................................. Trade Show Closes

4:00 p.m. .....................................................MCGA Silent Auction and Reception

5:30 p.m.

and Guest Speaker

The 2022 midterm election defied historical trends. What impact will the election have on federal policy priorities for agriculture? What big agriculture policy issues will be debated in the next Congress? Which actions will agencies be taking that might impact farmers and who are the big players in D.C. that set the agriculture policy agenda? National Corn lobbyist Tom Sell will use his decades of experience working on agriculture policy in Washington, D.C., to answer all these important questions and more. Sell will give attendees insights into the politics, personalities and policies that will shape and influence the agenda for agriculture.

7:00 p.m.

After Hours Sports Carnival

January 19

7:00 a.m. ..............................................................................

7:30 a.m.

MCGA PAC Breakfast

Early Riser Session

Leaders from the USDA Risk Management Agency will discuss what’s new in crop insurance for 2023 and how to take advantage of existing crop insurance options to maximize risk management in today’s farming economy. Topics of discussion will include how to request a written agreement to expand coverage availability, double cropping soybean expansion, and the availability of livestock insurance products.

For diversified growers RMA will discuss how changes to the whole farm and micro farm policy could benefit their operation, then explain the benefits of the Transitional and Organic Grower Assistance (TOGA) program. The session will conclude with a short Q and A session.

9:00 a.m. Minnesota Soybean Growers Association Annual Meeting

9:00 a.m. .................................................................................. Trade Show Opens

9:00 a.m. .............................................................................................CPR Training

10:00 a.m. ........................

MN Ag in the Classroom hands-on learning session

Discover how you can help Minnesota’s K-12 students gain knowledge and understanding about agriculture! Participants will complete hands-on activities that can be immediately implemented in K-12 educational settings. These activities will serve as a starting point for participants to brainstorm opportunities to grow agricultural literacy in their community. Attendees will receive free resources from the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom program to share with educators in their community.

Access to free standards-based lessons, activities, videos and more will be shared!

11:00 a.m. ..........................................................................Watershed Restoration

12:00 p.m. ...................................................................................................... Lunch

12:30 p.m. ....................................................................................

Keynote Speaker

Marissa Nehlsen — CEO and founder of Freedom Financial Group “Building and Defending Your Legacy”

Tax legal risk and wealth strategies to help you build and defend your legacy plan for you and the next generation. Designed to help you connect the dots between your tax legal risk and wealth strategies. This is the starting point to bring all of your tools and team together to build and defend your future legacy plan.

2:00 p.m. ...............................................................................

2023 Farm Bill Panel

The current Farm Bill was signed into law by then-President Trump in 2018 and expires in September 2023. Commodity groups have spent more than a year conducting learning sessions, developing priorities and meeting with lawmakers and USDA officials. During this AG EXPO panel, leaders from across agriculture, including American Soybean Association Executive Director of Government Affairs Christy Seyfert, will be appearing to discuss the policies they wish to see included in the Farm Bill. Minnesota Farmers Union President Gary Wertish and Nation Corn Growers Association Public Policy Director Colleen Willard round out the panel.

3:00 p.m. .................................................................................. Trade Show Closes

EXHIBITS

BASF Agricultural Solutions

Blue Horizon Energy

73 CHS Inc./CHS Hedging LLC

Corteva Agriscience 41 Country Enterprises

GreenSeam

Groundworks Backhoe Service 79

Heads Up Plant Protectants 56

Hefty Seed ........................................ 69

Houston Engineering ......................... 34

HTS Commodities ............................. 84

International Ag Labs, Inc.................. 24

ISG 81

Kluis Commodity Advisors ................. 74

Koch Agronomic Services ................. 53

Leaf Home Water Solutions ................. 9

LeafFilter Gutter Protection ............... 42

Linder Farm Network 16

Litzau Farm Drainage 64

Minnesota Agriculture and Rural Leadership........................................ 71 Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom............................... 44

Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program ........................ 25

Minnesota Corn Growers Association 55

Minnesota Corn Researchers 70

Minnesota Department of Agriculture 26 Minnesota Department

MN Ag Expo speakers scheduled to appear:

Jeff Allerson — Allerson has worked in the community health industry for the past 10 years and has presented across Minnesota focusing on the importance of CPR and early interventions — specifically in a rural setting.

Matt Berger — Berger is a partner at Gislason & Hunter, working in environmental and permitting issues, land use and zoning issues, contractual disputes, corporate governance and shareholder rights.

Brad Carlson — Brad Carlson is an educator with University of Minnesota Extension. His work focuses on nutrient management, water quality and precision agriculture.

Shelley DePestel — DePestel’s family farm in rural Lewiston milks 1,500 cows and farms 1,800 acres of corn and 800 acres of alfalfa. DePestels also utilize about 800 acres of pasture. DePestel is currently serving her second year as Minnesota Milk Producers Association president and has been on the board for 12 years.

Leif Fixen — Leif Fixen is the North America Agriculture Strategy Manager for The Nature Conservancy. He leads TNC’s Farmer Advisor Strategy, working closely with agribusinesses on issues related to water quality, soil health, and natural climate solutions.

Drew Kessler — Drew Kessler is a principal and agribusiness sector lead at Houston Engineering where he works on projects focused on water quality and climate resiliency.

Sue Knott — Knott taught high school agriculture for nine years before joining the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom team in 2012 as an Education Specialist. Sue trains K-12 educators to increase their comfort and confidence in utilizing agricultural content to enhance their curriculum.

Marrisa Nehlsen — Nehlsen is the founder and CEO of Freedom Financial Group. Over her 29 year career she serves her clients through her holistic planning firm based on the core principles to educate, empower and equip individuals, organizations and businesses to make wise choices.

Tom Olson — Olson is the board chair of the Minnesota Beef Council. With his wife Erin and son Levi, the Olsons work on their operation in Williams, Minn., near the Canadian border.

Tom Sell — In his role as founder and manager of Combest, Sell & Associates, Sell provides guidance and management, fosters strong relationships with influential leaders in Congress and the Administration, and leads client development efforts.

Christy Seyfert — As executive director of government affairs, Seyfert leads the American Soybean Association’s Washington, D.C., office.

Keri Sidle — Sidle joined MAITC in 2016. She has extensive experience with virtual program delivery and promotion.

Pamela Stahlke — Stahlke serves farmers in her home region of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa as the Director of the USDA Risk Management Agency’s St. Paul Regional Office.

Kent Thiesse — Thiesse is a farm management analyst and currently serves as senior vice president and chief ag loan officer for MinnStar Bank in Lake Crystal, Minn.

Ann Marie Ward — Ward works with the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom team to create opportunities to empower educators to infuse agriculture into their classrooms is a driving mission.

Gary Wertish — Wertish is president of the Minnesota Farmers Union. He assists his son Tom operating their family farm near Renville, Minn.

Colleen Willard — Willard currently serves as Director of Public Policy at the National Corn Growers Association, where she is responsible for lobbying Congress and the Executive Branch on conservation, environmental and crop protection issues.

Hospital merger: bigger not necessarily better

Should the University of Minnesota Hospital be owned by Sanford?

No.

Should the M Health Fairview system be taken over by Sanford?

No.

M Health Fairview includes the University of Minnesota Hospital and 10 other Fairview Hospitals in Minnesota. Sanford Health has 47 hospitals in South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota; and proposed a merger of the two systems last November.

HEALTHCARE FOCUS

By Mark Brakke

As a Minnesota family physician I am convinced the Sanford take-over would be bad for Minnesota patients and physicians.

Let me first address the problem of the University of Minnesota Hospital. Most doctors in the state are trained at the University of Minnesota Medical School and the University of Minnesota Hospital. The Medical School and Hospital have been leaders in U.S. medicine for years. Ground breaking work has been done here in many areas — including kidney transplantation and heart surgery.

Training medical students and residents does require funding beyond the revenue brought in by patient care. The original purchase of the University of Minnesota Hospital by Fairview in 1996 was driven by the idea (since proven wrong) that by combining the reputation of the University of Minnesota with Fairview’s additional beds a miraculous symbiosis would occur — allowing Minnesota taxpayers to avoid the necessary support

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of our University Hospital.

The doctors and staff at the hospital will tell you there was a decline in productive research and consequently the hospitals reputation when Fairview acquired control. Prior to 1996, the University of Minnesota Medical School ranked in the top 20 U.S. medical schools for research. Currently the University of Minnesota Medical School’s research ranking is 43rd. Ouch.

Take a look at the University of South Dakota Sanford Medical school. For both research and training primary care physicians they are unranked. That is below at least 124 other U.S. medical schools (There are 192 medical schools in the United States. The rankings do not go below 124.) The University of Minnesota is ranked third in the nation for its Family Physician training program. How do you think it will fare under Sanford?

You might be asking why this takeover is even being considered. Sanford is driven, as are almost all large corporations, by a desire for growth. This is true in spite of the “non-profit” status of Sanford. If Sanford gets bigger, the CEO and other Sanford executives can expect even higher compensation.

What about Fairview? Fairviews original bet on owning a university hospital has not turned out to be a financial windfall.

I believe Fairview is looking for a way to close shop and get some golden parachutes for their executives.

Believe it or not, there are additional reasons to oppose this takeover. All the serious studies of this type of big merger show it drives up prices by reducing competition. U.S. healthcare prices are already the highest in the world by a factor of 1.5 to 2.0 (considering only modern, prosperous countries).

The leaders of Sanford and Fairview say care will improve and cost will go down. This is pure speculation with no evidence to support it. All evidence is cost will go up and care will not improve. Indeed, when is the last time you got great personal service from a huge corporate entity? This is not a case where larger is better.

“I have been following this discussion, but haven’t had time to participate until now. My concern with this merger is that it will not improve rural health care in Minnesota. Not unlike all the other mergers that have come over the past decades. So I just sent this to (Minnesota Attorney General Keith) Ellison on the public forum:

I am a retired pediatrician who spent the last ten years of her career working at hospitals in rural Minnesota, including Marshall, Willmar, Alexandria, Bemidji, and Virginia. During that time I witnessed several takeovers and buyouts. Mostly these serve to shift the flow of patients from community care to whichever large medical center just acquired the local hospital. No improvement in health care has ever followed any of these mergers.

It is a mistake to trade health care communities like so many Pokemon cards, so that some huge corporation can have a full set and win at whatever obscure game they’re playing.

Instead I would recommend acknowledging the reality that rural medicine is not a short-term profitable venture. We must consider investing government money to back rural health care centers, so that they can retain more doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, and lab technicians. This will make it possible for more care to remain in the community rather than requiring many patients to be transferred to larger centers to receive adequate care.

I don’t think anyone has voiced this particular concern yet. It may not matter to the big businesses, but to individual patients going to a hospital hundreds of miles away is a big deal.”

— Lisa Freitag, MD

What should we as Minnesotans do? Oppose this takeover. The Minnesota Attorney General will be holding meetings about this around the state. Go to one of those meetings if you can (https://www.ag. state.mn.us/sanford-fairview/). Contact your Minnesota state senator and representative. Contact the governor’s office. Make a fuss.

Wishing you all the best in 2023. May your need for healthcare be minimal and all your encounters with healthcare be good for you.

Mark Brakke is retired after caring for patients in Coon Rapids, Minn. for 41 years. He has served on boards of two HMOs. Questions relating to health care can be sent to editor@thelandonline.com. v

Animal lovers will find enjoyment in veterinarian’s book

Oh, those tiny little claws are sharp!

You don’t expect something that small to draw blood, but there it is on the back of your hand. Fortunately, the pain is overwhelmed by the big ears and the huge eyes and the tail like a car antennae. You fell in love with your kitten onepoint-three seconds after it landed in your hands; and in the new book “The Battle Cry of the Siamese Kitten” by Philipp Schott, it does more than purr!

Philipp Schott has the best job.

THE BOOKWORM SEZ

By Terri Schlichenmeyer

He is a veterinarian and chief of staff at a pet hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and his days are filled with soft eyes, silky ears, warm purrs, growls and yelps. Humans are also his clients, and after many years of caring for pets, he has a few stories...

He writes, for instance, about a tiny Chihuahuasomething named Chico who was the victim of “BDLD,” or big dog (BD) attacking little dog (LD). Sweet-tempered, happy-go-lucky Chico was with his owners on a daily walk when a large cur approached with intent to kill. Once Chico got to the hospital, Schott saved his life but Chico later had scars on his outside.

“On the inside,” says Schott, “there was only joy.”

Vaccines can be controversial things for some people and, apparently, for some animals. Schott writes

Schott dispenses advice for humans caught in the “Cat Wars;” he explains why obsessive licking is sometimes a good thing for your pet; he muses on how different jobs are similar to that of a veterinarian; and he writes about the easy fixes. They don’t happen a lot, but when they do, it’s magical.

Quick: what’s cuter than a fluffy baby animal? Not much, that’s a fact; but the stories inside “The Battle Cry of the Siamese Kitten” come pretty close. A few pages into this book and you can probably

there, along with plenty to make feline owners happy. Dog tales, check. And human foibles go hand-in-paw with animal tales in this book, as Schott seems wonderfully, perfectly willing to tell on himself, too.

imagine how much fun it could be to have author Philipp Schott at a cocktail party. Here, he tells a very sweet story of a bunny owner and a rabbit cam because you can’t be too safe. He affectionately writes about “Cat Ladies” over of a client who “didn’t believe” in getting her dog his vaccinations, even though he explained the risks. Then there was the German shepherd that required three staff members and 20 minutes for a foursecond procedure. Schott writes about a kitten named Emily that didn’t care about Manitoba’s Covid rate, or the fact that he was a boy cat.

These are super-short anecdotes that are super-long on endearment, with subtle advice hidden in the tales, a few LOLs thrown in for good measure, and an occasional tear-wipe. Animal lovers ages 13-to-adult will want to curl up with “The Battle Cry of the Siamese Kitten.” Don’t wait to get your claws on it.

Look for the reviewed book at a bookstore or a library near you. You may also find the book at online book retailers.

The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been reading since she was 3 years old and never goes anywhere without a book. She lives in Wisconsin with three dogs and 10,000 books. v

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.

Jan. 11, 18, 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 — Strategic Farming: Let’s Talk Crops — Online — This live, online program will provide up-to-date, research-based information to help optimize your crop management strategies for 2023. For more details, please visit https://z.umn.edu/strategic-farming.

Jan. 12 — Crystal Valley Winter Conference — Mankato, Minn. — The conference will begin with a presentation of Crystal Valley’s research results, followed by breakouts featuring a full lineup of guest speakers and industry experts. For more information, visit winterconference.crystalvalley.coop.

Jan. 12 — What is a Fair Farm Rental Agreement — Online — Attendees will receive several informative worksheets and factsheets that will help to determine what a fair 2023 farmland rental rate is. For more information, please visit https://z.umn.edu/landrentworkshops.

Jan. 12 — Women in Dairy: Using Baler Twine and Barn Lime — Hutchinson, Minn. — Laura Daniels will show attendees how common items on

the farm are tools to help you get the most out of your crazy busy days. Contact McLeod County Extension office at (320) 484-4302.

Jan. 18 — Iowa State University’s Dairy Webinar — Online — This monthly series will focus on the climate and weather predictions for the 2023 growing season. Contact the ISU Extension and Outreach Dairy Field Specialist in your area for more information.

Jan. 18 — Good Agricultural Practices Training — Rochester, Minn. — All farms are welcome to attend and learn more about GAPs and practices to improve the safety of your fresh produce. Contact Annalisa Hultberg at hultb006@umn.edu. Other dates and locations: Jan. 23 — Online; Feb. 8 — Dundas, Minn.; March 2 — Online

Jan. 18-19 — MN Ag Expo — Mankato, Minn. — Learn what researchers are discovering about new uses for corn. The Expo will also include learning sessions focused on carbon credits, nitrogen, state regulations, and the 2023 farm bill. Contact MN Ag Expohttp:// mnagexpo.com.

Jan. 19 — Planning Your Dairy Farm Future — Paynesville, Minn. — Session is “Who’s the Boss?” (Leadership and Communication). Learn about family

member personality and communication and how it affects your farm’s performance. Contact Dana Adams at adam1744@umn.edu or (320) 255-6169, ext. 3.

Jan. 19-20 — Farm Futures Business Summit — Coralville, Iowa — The 2023 Farm Futures Summit is ready to equip you with the tools needed to capitalize on your operation’s full potential. For more information, visit https://www.farmfuturessummit.com/en/FarmFutures-Summit.html.

Jan. 19-21 — Practical Farmers of Iowa Conference — Ames, Iowa — This year, the conference invites attendees to consider the many places where common ground exists in our lives, farms, ideas and shared aspirations. Contact Tamsyn Jones at tamsyn.jones @practicalfarmers.org or (515) 232-5661.

Jan. 23— Apple Tree Pruning Workshop— Preston, Minn. —These workshops will provide guidance on proper pruning methods and focus on handson practice pruning trees at apple orchards. Contact your local Extension office with questions/registration assistance.Other dates and locations: Jan. 26 — Montgomery, Minn.; Feb. 8 — St Joseph, Minn.; Feb. 27 — Watertown, Minn.; Feb. 28 — Buffalo, Minn.; March 13 — Hinckley, Minn.; March 14 — Duluth, Minn.

“The Battle Cry of the Siamese Kitten” by Philipp Schott, DVM c.2022, ECW Press $17.95 280 pages

Henry Wallace’s report in the 1923 yearbook of agriculture

That was quite an ice storm we experienced a week ago. It was rather noisy with the ice sliding down the metal roof and branches breaking from the weight of the ice in the wind. If all that moisture had been snow, I might have gotten the toboggan out to have some fun sledding down the drifts. Instead, I had to pay close attention to my walking to the barn to make sure I didn’t do some unintentional sliding.

FROM MY FARMHOUSE KITCHEN

This snowy weather has provided ample time to get out my Agriculture Yearbook 1923 published by the United States Department of Agriculture. To me, it’s interesting to read how agriculture looked 100 years ago. Although I must admit, 1923 doesn’t seem that far past.

By Renae B. Vander Schaaf

in other fields of endeavor are compelling important readjustments. It is hoped that these systematic studies of the economic aspects of some of the more important lines of agricultural industry will be helpful in the formulation of an adequate agricultural policy to the end that the farmer may once more get his fair share of the national income and continue to feed our people at reasonable prices.”

the farm. Sadly, the continual worry and disappointment added to the breakup of the home. Farm families stopped going to social events and even to church. The Yearbook was concerned this lack of spiritual and mental training would prevent farm children from becoming citizens of the right sort.

In 1921, the newly-elected president, Warren Harding, appointed Henry C. Wallace as Secretary of Agriculture. In 1921, the USDA yearbook gave a report on the wheat, corn, beef and cotton industries — along with a summary of agricultural production. The yearbook of 1922 focused on conditions affecting hogs, dairy products, tobacco, small grains (other than wheat) and forestry and cotton.

Secretary Wallace’s annual report for 1923 contained studies on the sheep industry, forage resources and the utilization of land for crops, pasture and forests, and the economic aspects of land tenure. Many pages are devoted to statistics on livestock production, fertilizer production and consumption, forestry, and domestic and foreign prices of farm products.

In his foreward (as it was spelled) Wallace wrote, “It is evident that the agriculture of the country is undergoing important changes. The lower returns to agricultural workers as compared with workers

Public Notice by the Minnesota Pork Board and the National Pork Board

The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2024 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will take place at 12:30 PM, Monday, February 20, 2023 in conjunction with a Board of Directors meeting of the Minnesota Pork Board. All Minnesota pork producers are invited to attend. This Annual Meeting will be held at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato, MN 560 01 To RSVP, please contact the Minnesota Pork Office at (507)-345-8814 or email mnpork@mnpork.com.

Any producer, age 18 or older, who is a resident of the state and has paid all assessments due may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or par ticipate in the election. All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving that hogs were sold in their name and the checkoff deducted.

For more information, contact: Minnesota Pork Board Office 151 St. Andrews Cour t, Suite 810, Mankato, Minnesota (507) 345-8814 or (800) 537-7675

In 1923, 341,000,000 acres were planted to 14 principal crops. This was an increase of more than two million acres from the previous year. The report says the top 11 crops were corn, wheat, oats, barley, rye, buckwheat, flaxseed, potatoes, sweet potatoes, hay and cotton. I wonder what the other three top crops were.

Wallace’s report estimated that in 1922, 1,200,000 souls left the farm for town. A good portion of them were forced to when they lost their farms to too much debt. Foreclosure and bankruptcy took 4 percent of the farms; another 4.5 percent turned their farms over to creditors without legal process. The financial hurt didn’t end there, as an additional 14.5 percent were also bankrupt, but were hanging in there because of leniency of their creditors. This causes me to wonder just how many farms were lost in the 1920’s and in the 1930’s.

On March 4, 1923, the Agricultural Credits Act passed which made loans available to farmers.

The standard of living on farms had declined drastically. Children were kept out of school to work on

It was during this time that some of the large fire insurance companies were experimenting with a broader form of insurance coverage for crops. Hail insurance had been available for years. The Senate and Department of Agriculture were working together to develop a plan for crop insurance.

Cooperative associations were still quite popular — despite the many failures blamed on the low prices. The first great cooperative movement in agriculture had reached its apex in 1874. It began to revive in the 1900’s and was quite popular in 1923 when there were approximately 12,000 active farm cooperatives.

The Sherman Antitrust Law was passed to prevent monopolies or price setting by cooperatives. Then, in 1922, the Capper-Volstead Act had to undo this Sherman act for farmers. It specifically gave farmers the right to associate for the purpose of marketing their products and purchasing power.

It seems a bit odd to me that we are fighting more than ever monopolies and lack of marketing options. Especially when the Stockyards Act was passed 1921 to assure fair competition, to safeguard farmers and consumers, and of course to protect members of the livestock, meat and poultry industries from “unfair, deceptive, unjustly discriminatory and monopolistic practices....”

There was even a Grain Futures Act passed in 1922 to prevent the dissemination of false and misleading information regarding crop or market conditions and prohibits attempts to manipulate or corner the market.

On the bright side, good progress was being made in eradicating bovine tuberculosis. It was also becoming more convenient to deliver farm products to markets as 8,820 miles of federal-aid roads were completed that year.

The section of Wallace’s report entitled, “Importance of Weather Work,” begins with an interesting sentence: “The department is making its weather work pay back to the Nation many hundreds of dollars for each dollar expended.”

Forecasting was becoming more exacting in its predictions, so the weather service could warn of floods, frosts and storms which resulted in saving of crops and livestock.

Twin City Tractor: I don’t know the year that this tractor was manufactured in Minneapolis-St. Paul. It was ‘built to do the work.’

Things to remember for working safely in the cold

This winter of 2022-23 has already provided a wide array of thrills and chills! Keeping the driveways clear, the water flowing, the power and heat on, and the pigs safe and fed is a daily challenge during Minnesota’s winters. Our friends at the Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety & Health center offer this discussion about the dangers of cold weather outside work.

Cold temperatures pose serious threats to a person’s health, leading to frostbite, hypothermia, or trench foot, which occurs when the feet have been exposed to water for too long. Symptoms of hypothermia may include lack of coordination, confusion, slurring, drowsiness, or slowed breathing. Signs of frostbite and trench foot include skin that is numb, swollen, firm, blistered, red, or gray.

UMASH shares this checklist to keep you and farm workers safe in cold weather:

Can you complete indoor tasks and leave outdoor tasks for a warmer day?

Do you prioritize safety? Add more breaks, keep areas warm, provide warm food and drink, periodically check on employees, and train employees about the cold.

Snow makes it difficult to see roads and bodies of water. Do bright signs or fences mark roads and water?

Do you have heating systems to keep employees and livestock warm? Are they safe from fires and in well-ventilated areas?

Does everyone work in pairs?

Compared to warmer days, is there a higher ratio of people to tasks, with fewer tasks and more employees?

Does work begin earlier to avoid being outside at night?

Do you use sand, kitty litter or deicer on slippery areas? These may be less effective as it gets colder.

Do you wear the following when you go out in the

EXTENSION

SWINE&U

cold? Layers (inner: polyester or polypropylene, middle: wool or down, outer: waterresistant nylon), hat with flaps, hood, flexible gloves (inner layer and water-resistant outer layer), facemask, boots (not steel-toed) with cleats or slip-on grips, socks with breathing room in boots, and sunglasses.

warmer. Use sweat-wicking material like synthetic, wool, silk, or bamboo fibers for socks, underwear, and base layers.

By Diane DeWitte

Do you immediately remove and replace anything wet?

Do you carry a safety toolbox with the following items? Headlamp, flashlight, two-way radio, first aid kit, pocket knife, thermometer, dry pair of clothes, blanket, high-protein snacks, and a sweet, warm beverage.

U of M Extension Educator Emily Krekelberg and colleagues at UMASH offer these pointers for dressing to head outside for chores and livestock work in the Minnesota winter.

Layer Up — Dressing in multiple layers will wick sweat off your skin and trap heat to help you stay warm throughout workday. Follow the steps below from head to toe to keep you safe, warm, and dry for working in the winter.

Stay Dry — Carry an extra pair of mittens and socks to replace ones that may become damp or wet. Go indoors when available to warm up and dry off. Replace any wet or damp clothing with a dry set.

Avoid Cotton — Avoid cotton as the first layer. Clothing next to your skin should pull the sweat or moisture away – keeping you drier and

Insulation is Key — Just as we insulate our homes, insulated clothing will keep you warmer. Insulated hats, gloves, boots, overalls, and jackets offer another layer of protection against cold and wind. Insulation traps warm air close to the skin, and prevents heat from escaping.

Dressing head to toe in seven steps

The layer next to your skin should be a synthetic or wool top and bottom, such as long underwear. Look for labels that state “moisture-wicking” or “sweat-wicking.”

The second layer should be lightweight and insulating, such as a thin wool sweater, light fleece jacket, or shirt.

For the third layer, use a heavier fleece or wool sweater, which will trap heat in the body.

The last layer should help keep the wind and water out. Look for labels that mention waterproof or GoreTex. A nice added feature is a storm placket, which adds another layer of protection behind the zipper.

Cover the head with a warm hat that fully covers your ears. Consider a neck gaiter or face mask to protect the neck and lower face from the elements.

Mittens are warmer than gloves but not always practical for detailed work. Try wearing a thin synthetic glove inside a mitten. This will allow you to remove your mittens for more technical work while not exposing bare skin to the cold. Keep another pair

UniversityofMinnesota

SWINE & U

ABC Drones takes farming to new heights

By LAURA COLE The Land Staff Writer

In 2020, four Minnesota farmers founded ABC Drones LLC, a company designed to assist producers in taking the next step in agriculture technology.

The seeds were planted courtesy of the Covid pandemic.

Sarah Hart was a senior at Ashland University and had just arrived in Missouri for the first round of the 2020 NCAA Division II Championship for women’s basketball. Her team had an undefeated regular season and as the second ranked team, the upcoming days promised to be unforgettable. But it was Friday, March 13, 2020. As shutdowns began, the games were canceled and Sarah’s playing career abruptly ended.

Two days later, Sarah headed back to her family farm outside of Rochester, Minn. to finish classes online. Her family farms corn and soy beans, as well as some sweet corn for a local canning

company.

“My dad had some old drones and asked me to try to figure them out,” Sarah recalled. The software was out of date, but Sarah’s interest was piqued. She purchased a new drone and was able to learn more about the device. When unfavorable weather paid a visit

to the farm, Sarah put the drone to work. “A bad windstorm laid crop down and I was able to do some mapping with the drone,” Sarah said. “It stitched together the pictures I took.” The data was turned in to the insurance company, and the end result was money back for the farm. “It got the wheels turning,” she remarked.

Two seed dealers in the Rochester area recommended checking out Beck’s Hybrids’ headquarters to see the drones they work with. Sarah and her dad made the trip to Indiana and were able to learn more about the Hylio drones firsthand from the brand’s CEO and president. “We were able to talk to them about their business, goals, and what they want to do in the future. We were really impressed with them!”

After that visit, ABC Drones LLC was founded by Sarah and her two sisters, Rachel Encinias and Rebekah Hart, and her brother-in-law, Joseph Encinias. ABC stands for Agriculture, Business, and Community. Each of the co-owners have an area of expertise they bring to the company. “Rebekah is very good with graphic design and Rachel is great with administration,” Sarah commented. Joe takes care of all things mechanical. “He’s great with fixing and maintenance.” Sarah specializes in sales. She is also a drone pilot, along with Rachel and Joe.

ABC Drones offers a variety of services. They work exclusively with Hylio drones and sell models designed for spray and seeding, as well as models designed for crop scouting and mapping. Sarah stated the company is certified to train a pilot how to operate, maintain, and update their drone throughout the lifespan of the operation. They also provide advanced maintenance and repair. “We hope to be a

hub for research and a resource for education. We’re looking at how can we keep customers ahead of the game,” she said.

Flying drones for agricultural purposes requires licenses and certifications which need to be maintained. An Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 license, an FAA Part 137 license, and a pesticide applicator license are requirements, as well as a certificate for a health class II medical card. “FAA will come down and watch you fly before getting the certificate for the 137,” Sarah stated. With additional licensure, multiple drones can be flown at once.

Specifics vary depending on model, but Sarah noted the drones have about a 30-foot swath and work at approximately 10-12 miles per hour. “The drone itself can fly into 25 mile per hour winds. However, in order to spray, the winds cannot exceed 10 miles per

hour. Different products have different label readings for mph winds, but that is usually the standard speed.”

Currently, models run 7-8 minutes at a time before pausing for a tank refill and battery change. Amid dealing with some windy conditions, Sarah has sprayed about 170 acres in a day at a two-gallons-per-acre rate with Hylio’s 4.2 gallon AG-116 model. ABC Drones also sells an 8 gallon model, and Sarah added Hylio recently came out with a 16 gallon drone. “The industry is moving fast and the drones are getting bigger and more efficient. It’s exciting!”

Left to Right: Sarah Hart, Rachel Encinias, Joe Encinias, Rebekah Hart

Photos submitted

The Hylio 122 spraying a corn field. ABC Drones allow growers to take field product applications to a precise and more economical level.

Hylio drones can be flown via a laptop computer

Sarah remarked.

Sarah mentioned that drone operators can save battery power by not needing to turn around on the field. After going down a stretch, they are able to slide over and then continue the work on the way back. The drones also have obstacle avoidance features.

“The FAA law for the drones is that it needs a remote controller. However, the Hylio drones can be flown on a laptop without having to use the controller!” Sarah remarked. With the laptop, “you can control it with the keyboard or click on the screen.” She added it’s a requirement that the remote controller be with the operator during use.

Look! Up in the sky! It’s a … drone!

By DICK HAGEN The Land Staff Writer Emeritus

Nearly a decade after Jeff Bezo’s first announced drone delivery, Amazon says it’s finally ready to start air-dropping packages — literally. This latest drone model will drop packages from 12 feet in the air.

“If the drone encounters another aircraft when it’s flying, it’ll fly around that other aircraft. And when it gets to its delivery location, should your dog run underneath the drone, we won’t deliver the package,” said Calsee Hendrickson, who leads product and program management for the Prime Air drone program.

Hendrickson, age 39, is an Iowa State University graduate in engineering. Her first work was with the Boeing Corporation in their Seattle, Wash. headquarters.

The drone is about 5.5 inches in diameter and weighs 80 pounds. It can only carry packages weighing less than five pounds. And deliveries must fit in one box about the size of a shoe box.

Said Hendrickson, “We like to refer to the drone as being independently safe, which means it has the power to make the decision. If it detects a heat signature underneath the drone and was unable to deliver a package, it would return back to the station. But the drones do have an operator in command that is overseeing the entire airspace.”

The delivery package is secured inside the drone, then the drone takes off vertically, similar to a helicopter, using six propellers. Once in the air, the drone rotates into a forward position and the hexagon surrounding the drone serves as its wings. Hendrickson said it flies about 50 miles per hour. Once at the

delivery location, it descends vertically, scans the area to make sure it’s clear, then drops the box while hovering about 12 feet above the ground.

The drone can fly 12 kilometers round-trip, and is fully autonomous.

Amazon says thousands of items potentially are eligible for drone delivery. “We’ve designed special packaging that ensures the integrity of the product is still intact after delivery,” said Hendrickson.

She couldn’t provide any cost figures; but rest assured, now that it’s a done deal with the Federal Aviation Administration, aerial drops of light packages will likely become a common occurrence across America. v

Because ABC Drones’ owners use the models they sell on their own fields, they’ve witnessed the benefits first-hand. The family experimented and compared results using a drone, a helicopter, and a ground rig, and were pleased with the drone’s results. “For us, it’s been really helpful,” Sarah commented. “For spraying, the drone is 10 feet above the canopy. It pushes the product more into the crop.” Sarah noted with helicopter use, she and her sister have seen more blanketing. “The drone does a better job with application,” Sarah remarked, also acknowledging the benefit of a slower spray.

Sarah pointed out the many options drones have afforded her family. “My dad is big on testing. If he wants the full field sprayed or just half a field, we can do that. We do seeding; you can do a cover crop. We like the flexibility with it.” Sarah emphasized the freedom the producer gains. “It puts you in control. You can decide when to spray, how to spray, and however many times.” Instead of having to work with someone else’s schedule, a farmer can take advantage of optimum weather conditions as they are presented.

Sarah has also seen how drones have benefitted their customers. “We had a couple dairy farms having a hard time getting a helicopter in,” Sarah recalled.

ABC Drones was able to work with them. The company also has some customers using drones on pasture, and one reported back it was the best kill he’s ever gotten.

ABC Drones had the opportunity to provide Syngenta with research. “We did some fungicide spraying for their seed plots. We also did a few differSee ABC DRONES, pg. 24

Calsee Hendrickson

Joe Encinias switches out the tanks on the Hylio 122.

Heavy snow can damage roofs and strain trusses

of mittens ready in case they become damp or wet.

A thin synthetic sock with a wool sock over the top allows moisture to be wicked from the feet, and the wool will keep your feet warm. Have an extra pair of socks ready in case they become damp or wet, and check that your toes have enough room to wiggle in an insulated boot.

Know these winter weather terms

Blizzard Warning — Issued for sustained or gusty winds of 35 miles per hour or more, and falling or blowing snow creating visibilities at or below a quarter-mile. These conditions should persist for at least three hours.

Wind Chill Advisory — Issued when wind chill temperatures are expected to be a significant inconvenience to life with prolonged exposure, and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to hazardous exposure.

Wind Chill Warning — Issued when wind chill temperatures are expected to be hazardous to life within several minutes of exposure.

Winter Storm Warning — Issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, blizzard conditions, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring. Winter storm warnings are usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin.

Winter Storm Watch — Alerts the public to the possibility of a blizzard, heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet. Winter storm watches are usually issued 12 to 48 hours before the beginning of a winter storm.

Winter Weather Advisories — Issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and sleet which will cause significant inconveniences and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to life threatening situations.

Snow on the farmstead

Get the deepest snow off a roof as soon as possible. Generally, you will have some time between a large snowfall event and possible structural failure.

Check for danger signs — Before beginning to remove snow or enter a building with excessive snow on the roof, look for signs of building damage and the beginning of failure. Look at the roof line to see if it is still straight. Look at the sidewalls to see if there are any bulges or indications that knee braces have failed. When entering a building with excessive snow, look at the ceiling, open trusses and walls for indications of damage or failure. If there are indications of building damage or failure, do not climb onto the roof or enter the building while the snow is on the roof.

Snow removal methods — Hire a professional if possible. Get up on the roof and shovel off the snow. There is a danger of falling off the roof when working on a snow-covered and icy roof. Use ladders, safety ropes and take necessary precautions.

Use snow rakes or specialty tools that can be used

from the ground or from portable scaffolding. Use extreme caution when working near overhead electrical power lines. Avoid excessive scraping on the roof or trying to chip off the ice. These practices can damage the roof and lead to a leaky roof.

If the weather is not too cold, hot water or some other heat source can be used to melt snow and ice.

Warm the inside of the building sufficiently with large heaters to melt the ice layer and then wait for the snow and ice to slide off. A lot of heat is necessary for even a moderately-sized building, and the building must be an open-trussed structure (no flat ceiling) and have an uninsulated metal roof. Be careful to prevent large chunks of ice and snow that slide off the roof from falling on people, animals or equipment. Do not put heaters in an attic of buildings with flat ceilings because of the fire and carbon monoxide danger and you could create ice dams along the building’s eaves.

It is difficult to say how much snow or ice is safe because it depends on the building design and the snow or ice weight. In most cases, agricultural buildings will have an excessive snow load if there are more than four to six feet of snow on the roof.

Excessive snow and ice followed with cold temperatures can create excessive snow loads. You should monitor the snow load situation on your agricultural buildings and take appropriate action. Check high risks areas and, if you need to remove snow, be extremely careful.

Diane DeWitte can be reached at stouf002@umn. edu. v

Choosing a tractor important in 1923

FARMHOUSE KITCHEN,

from pg. 12

The Yearbook was encouraging farmers to be more self-sustaining by instructing them to produce more of their own milk, butter, eggs, meats and vegetables, thereby reducing out of pocket costs. Also they may be should diversify their farming operations.

The section on timber was concerned about the rapidly-diminished supply of timber; stopping forest fires; and the lack of new timber acres. I’m concerned about that too, a hundred years later.

The Yearbook stated sugar provided about 13 percent of all the energy obtained from food. The amount used in cooking and on the table averaged about one-and-a-half pounds per person per week. It was considered an economical source of fuel/energy.

The primary sources for this energy were cane and the sugar beet. Cane was introduced into the continental United States by Jesuits in Louisiana in 1751. The sugar beet industry didn’t really take off until 1879. It’s interesting that the beet seed stock used in the United States at that time were the French Vilmorin and German Klein Wanzleban. Prior to World War I, practically all the seed used in America came from the large beet seed companies

in Europe. The seed quality deteriorated so much during World War I it was becoming necessary for America to begin producing their own supply at this time in history.

I found the sheep industry section especially interesting as my farmer and I are back in the sheep business with a very small flock. Sheep were promoted as being good weed cleaner-uppers and great at foraging, and naturally increasing soil fertility. The breeds featured were Shropshire, Rambouillet, Hampshire and Lincoln.

In addition to Wallace’s annual report, the Extension Service produced a number of bulletins with subjects such as “Game Laws,” “How To Grow Alfalfa,” “The Whipping Quality of Cream,” and that menace quack grass.

Tractors were beginning to replace horse power on farms. One bulletin was entitled, “The Cost of Using Horses on Corn Belt Farms;” while others were “The Cost of Using Tractors on Corn Belt Farms,” and “Shall I Buy a Tractor?” to “Choosing A Tractor.”

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

Wildlife management can be implemented in other fields

By RICHARD SIEMERS

The Land Correspondent

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has found it practical to enlist farmers to assist in managing their Wildlife Management Areas. For years, farmers have been involved in providing food plots on WMAs.

“It’s typically a share-cropping agreement,” said Wendy Krueger, Area Wildlife Manager based in Marshall, Minn. “No money changes hands.”

The farmer has the expense of inputs, planting and harvesting. At harvest, a portion is left for wildlife, and the farmer gets the rest. The division depends on the crops and is worked out ahead of time in the contract.

“Corn and soybeans is a standard around here [in southwestern Minnesota],” Krueger said. “We like corn food plots because standing corn is providing cover for the wildlife while they eat. And if we can get a cover crop in that corn, that’s some greenery under there that the deer will be attracted to. They’ll plow through a lot of snow to get to those green cover crops. But we want to get more diversity of crops — not just corn and beans, but some oats, wheat, sorghum, too.”

The approach to food plots has evolved through the years. The farmers need to have completed or be working on the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Water Quality Certification Program, or at least agree to follow those standards.

“What that means is we’re stressing no-till or minimum tillage, less pesticides, less chemical use, and promoting cover crops so we’ve got the land covered to help with soil erosion and build up the soil health,” Krueger said.

When the plan includes non-income producing aspects like cover crops, that is taken into account when the contract is written.

“We want to be fair to farmers,” Krueger said.

The primary purpose of having food plots on WMAs is to provide food for deer, pheasants and other wildlife. The food plots are not planted on every WMA, but targeted to those which are near wildlife wintering areas.

“You try to provide the food close to their winter cover,” Krueger said, “so a pheasant, for example, won’t be exposed or have to fly too far away and be exposed to predators.”

Secondary benefits include providing wildlife with food on the WMA so they don’t have to get in trouble with neighbors of the wintering area by venturing onto the farm to find food. And “Hunters love food plots,” Krueger said. They’re open to public hunting.

Not every farmer is interested in participating. WMAs are not prime agricultural land. With the standards they are expected to meet, and especially

when they have large machinery, some don’t find it worthwhile to farm these small plots — usually under 10 acres. Often the family from whom land has been purchased will continue to farm the food plot. Otherwise, they look for nearby farmers.

Nick Thooft, a Lake Benton, Minn. farmer who recently completed the Water Quality Certification, took on food plots in Hole in the Mountain WMA for the first time in 2022. It was not a good year to begin.

“This year was pretty hard for the food plot areas, for me,” Thooft said.

“We’re trying to go away from doing any type of tillage, and no-till seems very dependent upon rainfall after seeding, from my experience. There wasn’t any rain and our plan to have cover crops specifically designed for the wildlife didn’t grow.”

There are four food plots at this WMA, totaling less than 40 acres. Two were intended for wildlife only and had a wildlife mix of seed which included sorghum, cowpeas, a couple clovers, oats, millets, nonGMO corn, kale, turnips, sunflowers, flax, buckwheat and sugar beets. It did sprout, Thooft said, but “it was the only thing green in the section and I think the wildlife took it earlier” rather than waiting for winter. He thought it was possible some may come up in the spring.

The other two plots were planted to spring wheat, which Thooft was able to harvest and leave the stover. After harvest he drilled in peas, small grains and lentils. They started to green up, but there wasn’t enough rain to keep it going.

Despite this disappointing beginning, Thooft plans to farm the food plots again.

“We’ll give it another shot next year,” he said.

Ben Dwire of Arco, Minn. has been part of food plot management for at least four years. The drought affected the two WMAs where he farms food plots (as it did his own fields), but he has seen benefits through his years of involvement.

He works on two WMAs: Elmer Weltz WMA in Lyon County, and Bosque WMA, which straddles the Lyon and Lincoln County line. Each has three plots. The Weltz plots are small, about eight acres apiece; the Bosque plots are larger. Both have a three-crop rotation: corn, soybeans and small grain.

This works well for Dwire, who farms rented land and uses the same rotation. The land is similar, too.

“Most of the land I rent is pretty rugged — similar to these wildlife areas,” Dwire said. “These wildlife pods work out so good because it’s the same way I farm all of my [rented land]. On these wildlife farms we are 100 percent no-till, and we use cover crops. That’s the main food source. Two-thirds of my own farm acres get cover crops every year, so it’s very

similar, just in a smaller way. Most food plots are essentially cover crops.”

He works the food plots as he does his own land.

“With the small grains, last year we had oats, you can put red clover out there with the oats; so as soon as I combine, we’ve got red clover growing up as a food source. After we’re done combining, I go out and drill in some more species.”

That could be cereal rye, turnips, radishes, whatever the available moisture will support. Both clover and rye will green up right away in March and April and grow right away in the spring.

The corn and soybean acres get cereal rye as soon as harvest is done. The corn may get cover crops

See WILDLIFE, pg. 23

Wendy Krueger

Nick Thooft

Ben Dwire

Creative thinking brought farmers’ market to school

By TIM KING The Land Correspondent

WABASHA, Minn. — How does a small town farmers’ market go from a group of retail vendors to one wholesale entity which sells to schools and other institutional markets? It’s not easy; but Sara George, a produce farmer and employee of Renewing the Countryside, has figured it out and she’s sharing her idea with anybody who wants to listen.

The idea began to hatch in 2016, after George had been managing the Wabasha farmers market for five years.

“Our local school food service director wanted to buy local, but she just wasn’t sure how to connect to the farmers,” George said. “Her idea was to swing through the Wabasha farmers’ market and buy there. I was elated. I rode on that excitement until the next week, when she came back to buy again.”

On that shopping trip George got bold. She asked the food service director how much she could spend. She had $38 — the entirety of her petty cash fund.

“I am limited to petty cash without you each being registered vendors for our food service,” she told George.

George spent quite a few restless nights trying to figure out how such a cumbersome arrangement would work — or even if it would work. Then, in the dark of a sleepless night, she had an idea.

“Why not register the farmers market as the vendor, she wondered. “Then Annette (the food service director) could order from me. “I would make it so that the farmers gave me the prod-

uct and I would even volunteer to deliver it. I just wanted to make more sales for my farmers.”

She did make sales.

“I would call Annette and ask her what she wanted and then I would call the seven farmers that were in the area and find out if they had it,” George said. “Then I would call Annette back and tell her what was available and she would order it. On a rough week, she would ask pricing and I didn’t have it and had to call the farmers back. It was a heavy game of phone tag; but we were really moving produce through to the schools. What a win!”

But there was a bump in the road. A license was required to aggregate food from a number of farmers and then sell it.

“Plus, we were a farmers’ market, set up in the middle of the street,” she said. “There was no business address, no sinks for hand washing, no buildings to

inspect and it all made the licensors uncomfortable.”

That’s when George reached out to ReNewing the Countryside, the Minnesota Farmers Market Association, and the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture.

Since then, George, along with the three organizations and funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, has created a legal model for farmers’ market to be food hubs serving local school districts and other institutions.

“That early model of me making calls to get the orders placed got outdated quickly and we upgraded to an online sales platform,” George said. “You can buy from multiple farmers, using one shopping cart, one check out, making one payment and it all arrives at your door at one time for delivery. It’s slick.”

Farmers’ markets in Red Wing, Wabasha, Aitkin, Grand Rapids, Virginia, Willmar, Moorhead, Mankato and Rochester are using the system using a Hub Manual developed by George and the three organizations.

Both farmers and schools have shown flexibility in adapting this innovative distribution system. But schools using the approach developed by George and her partners are making big changes in their kitchens as well.

The Hutchinson, Litchfield and Dassel-Cokato schools don’t participate in Sara George’s project; but they have made a major commitment to building a farm-to-school program by jointly hiring Leslie Mueller, a nutritionist, and another staff position the three districts are calling a “farm-to-school liaison.”

“When Lesli took over as the director

for the three districts, launching a farm-to-school program was one of her hopes,” Aimee Haag said. “A few years later, we met at a school in Hutchinson where I was substitute teaching. At the time, I was still vegetable farming seasonally but was ready to dedicate my farming heart to a different part of the farming puzzle.”

Mueller and Haag started talking about how a farm to school program might work in the three school districts and Mueller eventually hired Haag to become the farm-to-school liaison.

“Our farm-to-school program began (in 2020) as one heavily focused on fresh produce,” Haag said. “We have a handful of talented produce farmers in the community that believe in our program and have become important partners. Together we create a school menu that is representative of what›s locally available and abundant; but also con-

Photos submitted

Sara George

Young customers at the Wabash Farmers Market.

School district is looking for farm-to-school opportunities

By TIM KING The Land Correspondent

KENYON, Minn. — In 2006 there were fewer than 20 Minnesota school districts purchasing farm products via farm-to-school partnerships, according to the National Farm to School Network. When the U.S. Department of Agriculture conducted a count a few years later, their Farm to School census for 2013-14 counted 268 Minnesota school districts involved in some sort of partnership with Minnesota farmers. Those districts, according the National Farm to School Network’s telling of the census, spent $12 million on Minnesota farm products during that census period. USDA’s 2018-19 census, the most recent available, reported a whopping 1,008 schools participating in some form of farm to school program — whether directly through food in the cafeteria or through food and farming education in the classroom.

Northfield, Goodhue and KenyonWanamingo is extensive.

“I’ve sold butternut and acorn squash, kohlrabi, rutabagas, potatoes, summer squash, rhubarb, and maple syrup to schools,” she said.

Rusnak, who is trained and certified in Good Agricultural Practices and the Food Safety Modernization Act, makes her own deliveries using a truck with a 3,000-pound capacity.

Over the years she has taught herself the ins and the outs of working with institutional buyers and she received produce quality assurance training from Russ Davis Wholesale produce.

“I make my own deliveries and enjoy visiting face to face with my customers,” she said. “I take orders by email and send an invoice email directly to the billing person when I deliver. I try to provide the buyer with photos and make sure they get the size and pack that they want.”

Rusnak’s solo farm-to-school model contrasts with that of a food hub like The Good Acre in Falcon Heights, Minn. The Good Acre gathers produce from 135 small farmers and food makers located within 100 miles of the Twin Cities and aggregates it into larger orders which go out to school districts, hunger relief organizations, and other institutions.

continue to support and understand the importance of buying from local farms in their communities. Schools can enjoy the unique benefits of working both with a neighborhood farm and an aggregator and keep dollars in our state and local towns.”

Jeff Campbell, the Food Service Director for the St. Charles, Minn. school district is looking high and low

for farmers in his community to buy from.

Campbell, who has 20 years of experience in the school food service profession, is in his first year of a farm-to-school project at St. Charles, a community in Winona County in Southeastern Minnesota.

“We’ve had to go out and find the farmers,” Campbell said. “I’ve also reached out to the farmers market and am working with them.”

Campbell’s commitment to creating a successful farm-to-school program is demonstrated by the fact that his kitchen serves locally raised beef. St. Charles school district is one of only 18 in Minnesota that serves what the U.S. Department of Agriculture refers to as protein, according to the Farm to School Census.

“We’ve developed a good relationship with Dover Processors in nearby Dover to process our farmers beef,” he said.

See RUSNAK, pg. 23

Rae Rusnak, of L&R Poultry and Produce near Kenyon, was one of the farmers who recognized the farm-toschool opportunity early on.

“I’ve been selling to school districts since 2008,” Rusnak, who sells produce, eggs and other products from her farm wholesale, said.

The list of crops she’s sold to school districts in Minneapolis, St. Paul,

ON THE COVER: The rutabagas are being cleaned by Rae’s dad, Mylo Hoisve, and her sister, Paula Hoisve.

“During the peak of the growing season, from mid-August through midSeptember, we can receive around $100,000 worth of produce each week,” Nikki Wagner of the Good Acre says. “We have an operations team of five that handles receiving, inspecting each order that comes through the door, checking the temperature of each case, and then getting it into one of our giant coolers within about 15 minutes.”

Rae Runsak says she has lost some business to food hubs.

“Some schools have gone with a produce aggregator that works with many farms but acts like a single vendor,” she said. “While aggregators are very helpful for more remotely located farms, or farms that are unable to sell on their own, they do compete with individual farms for sales. My hope is that schools who purchase from an aggregator will

Photos submitted Rae Rusnak holds one of her farm’s butternut squashes.

A field of Rusnak’s acorn squash.

Grain Outlook

Corn ends 2022 on a high note

The following marketing analysis is for the week ending Dec. 30.

CORN — Happy New Year! A holiday-shortened week with limited fresh news as we headed to month, quarter, and year-end. The final trading week of the year brought good news to growers as prices rallied to seven-week highs on less rainfall in Argentina than expected. The extended forecasts show limited rain and a return of hotter temperatures. Tempering the upside was the increase in Covid cases in China; but restrictions are easing which lent support. Travelers going into China are no longer required to provide a negative Covid test to enter the country, but travelers entering the United States, India, South Korea, Spain, and other countries must provide a negative test 48 hours before traveling.

Insurers and reinsurers are not renewing war risk coverage in Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus. They usually renew on Jan. 1, so this is their first opportunity to limit coverage since the Russian/Ukrainian war began back in February. This may result in fewer shipments and/or higher costs. Reinsurers have suffered losses this year related to the war and Hurricane Ian in Florida.

A well-known private consultant lowered his Brazilian corn estimate by .5 million metric tons to 125 mmt and cut his Argentine estimate by 1 mmt to 46 mmt.

The University of Illinois did a study titled, “The Impact of Long-Run Declines in Gasoline Use on the U.S. Corn Market.” Their bottom line was the US ethanol industry faces uncertainty due to electric vehicles and declining gasoline use. Decreasing ethanol production could decrease corn prices by about 4 percent, but this assumes current corn production and other uses continue current trends. New uses could alter that outlook.

Weekly export sales were delayed until Dec. 30 due to the Monday holiday. Sales were above the highest expectation at 30.8 million bushels, but were below the same week a year ago for the fifth straight week. Total export commitments are 843 million bushels and down 47 percent from last year. We need to average 32.8 million bushels of sales per week to hit the current U.S. Department of Agriculture outlook of 2.075 billion bushels. China only has 632,000 metric

Cash Grain Markets

corn/change* soybeans/change*

Stewartville $6.24 +.01 $14.27 -.07

Edgerton $6.86 +.14 $14.67 +.03 Jackson $6.62 NA $14.59 NA Hope $6.60 +.14 $14.40 +.04

Cannon Falls $6.65 +.47 $14.46 +.12

Sleepy Eye $6.65 +.18 $14.57 +.02

St. Cloud $6.46 +.29 $14.57 +.03 Madison $6.58 +.20 $15.09 +.35 Redwood Falls $6.70 +.11 $14.68 -.06

Fergus Falls $6.41 +.15 $14.52 +.02

Morris $6.50 +.13 $14.70 -.03 Tracy $6.70 +.13 $14.72 +.09

Average: $6.58 $14.60

Year Ago Average: $5.91 $13.38

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

tons of unshipped purchases on the books compared with 10.1 mmt last year. Most traders will expect a cut to the export category on the Jan. 12 World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates report which will likely feed directly to an increase in ending stocks. There was only one fresh daily sale announcement this week with 295,000 bushels for old crop and 6.69 million bushels for 2023-24 — both going to Japan. Total exports for the 2023-24 marketing year are 44.8 million bushels vs. 59.5 million bushels last year.

Weekly ethanol production fell more than expected, down 66,000 barrels per day to 963,000 bpd. This was an 11-week low and was down 9.1 percent from the same week last year. We need to average 1.027 million bpd to hit the USDA’s 5.275 billion bushels of corn for ethanol. Weekly ethanol stocks were at a record high for the week at 24.64 million barrels and up 596,000 barrels for the week. Stocks were up 19.2 percent from the same week last year. U.S. gasoline demand was a 12-week high at 9.3 million bpd but is down 4.1 percent from the same week last year. The four-week average gasoline demand is down 6.7 percent from last year.

Argentina’s corn planting was estimated at 62.9 percent complete compared to 78 percent on average by the Buenos Aires Grain Exchange as of Dec. 29. Their corn rating for good/excellent was unchanged at 15 percent but the poor category was up 2 percent at 28 percent.

Outlook: Weather, weather, weather, plus a little export demand and macro considerations thrown in for fun. The start of a new calendar year and a long weekend can combine for a volatile restart on Jan. 3, it’s a game of wait and see. In the last five years, there is a tendency for March corn to rally in January. Pencils will begin to be put to paper for how much corn ending stocks may increase on the Jan. 12 report,

which may limit where we go from here.

For the week, March corn rallied 12.25 cents to $6.78.5, July was 13.75 cents higher at $6.71.75, and December 2023 was 9 cents higher at $6.10.75 per bushel.

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange reopened for post-New Year’s trading on Jan. 3 at 8:30 a.m. The January WASDE and Grain Stocks reports will be released on Jan. 12.

SOYBEANS — Argentina continues to struggle with hot, dry conditions which provided underlying support, but concerns over rising Covid cases in China may limit the upside momentum. This didn’t stop March soybeans from soaring to fresh six-month highs and filling the overhead gap left in June! Soybeans closed higher for five straight sessions. March soy meal set a new contract high on Argentina’s weather as they are the world’s largest exporter of meal. Soyoil felt pressure to end the week on heavy deliveries against the January contract. Brazil’s weather is mostly favorable with the only real area of concern being dryness in the far southern portions of the country.

A respected private consultant cut Argentina’s soybean estimate by 2 mmt to 43 mmt with planting 60 percent complete vs. 79 percent on average. His Brazilian estimate was unchanged at 151 mmt. The BAGE commented that up to 500,000 hectares of Argentine soybean acreage may not get planted if rains don’t improve. Bean planting was estimated at 72.2 percent complete vs. 88 percent on average. The BAGE’s Argentine soybean production outlook was unchanged at 48 mmt vs. the USDA’s 49.5 mmt projection. Their soybean rating dropped 2 percent to just 10 percent rated good/excellent with the poor rating increasing 3 percent to 28 percent. Last year, their beans were rated 57 percent good/excellent and 8 percent poor. Argentina’s special soybean exchange rate has ended. It’s estimated Argentina’s farmers have sold 80 percent of last year›s soybean crop.

Weekly export sales were neutral with 25.9 million bushels sold, bringing total export commitments to 1.584 billion bushels. This is up 4 percent from last year. We need to average 13.4 million bushels of sales per week to reach the USDA’s 2.045 billion bushel outlook. China has so far purchased 25.7 mmt of U.S. soybeans for 2022-23 vs. 23.4 mmt bought last year by now.

Russian President Putin banned the sale of Russian oil and oil products to countries imposing a price cap on the oil. The EU and UK have banned the import of seaborne Russian crude oil and the Group of Seven effectively put a ceiling on Russian crude oil by barring Western companies from insuring, financing, or shipping Russian crude oil above $60 per barrel.

Indonesia will push back the start of the increase in mandatory palm oil biodiesel blending from 30 to 35 percent to February. The 30 percent blending level has been in place since 2020.

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.

PHYLLIS NYSTROM CHS Hedging inC St. Paul

Farmer is responsible for inputs, planting and harvesting

applied with the fertilizer. Although those cover crops, which are usually knee to waist high, grew only about three inches this past season, Dwire did see a herd of deer grazing them in November.

“Every acre of those food plots gets covered with a cover crop, and every acre has a cover crop that will green up early in the spring,” Dwire said. “After harvest, the deer eat all of the grain off the ground. Without doing tillage, all of that biomass from the previous crop is there for them to eat all winter. The big difference is it greens up right away in March and April. You have an early feed source.”

The cover crops are a favorite of hunters, too, he said. That’s where you find the pheasants. They’re also popular with dove hunters.

The Elmer Weltz WMA is by Goose Lake. Cover crops prevent chemical and fertilizer runoff into the lake, and have an added benefit.

“We let the cereal rye grow tall before we plant into it, and that provides a lot of nesting habitat [for ducks and pheasants], which is one of the goals for that WMA, too,” Dwire said. “It’s not just a food source, but is also providing some habitat for the early season.”

In fact, he lets all of the cover crops grow up in the

Farmers also supply beef to schools

FARMERS MARKET, from pg. 20

siders what the schools have in labor, equipment and food budget to do well.”

Since that first year, the schools have worked with the farmers to also provide the districts with winter storage vegetables as well as locally-produced beef for hamburgers and other ground beef recipes.

“We learned how to handle more foods in their whole form and how to embrace the seasonal nature of our place,” Haag said. “Adapting to a farm-toschool model does require systems to change and the staff has truly worked hard and been willing to adapt and innovate.”

Haag says they have used the Minnesota Department of Agriculture grants to purchase equipment to more efficiently process whole foods. The grants also subsidize the purchase of some of the locally-grown food.

She says that the program continues to evolve.

“We’re working with the farmers to scale up certain crops while also introducing new ones,” she said.

You can learn more about Minnesota’s farm-toschool grants at by contacting Emily Mehr of the MDA at (651) 201-6456. You can see the Wabasha farmers’ market on-line ordering platform by searching for the Wabasha Open Food Network. v

More farms joining school district

RUZNAK, from pg. 21

The relationship between the school, a small town meat processor, and area farmers has allowed Campbell to put locally grown and processed hot dogs and hamburgers on the school menu.

“We can serve 500 hot dogs and 500 hamburgers at one meal,” he said.

One of the farmers Campbell reached out to was Rachelle Meyer of Wholesome Family Farms near Caledonia in neighboring Houston County.

“He heard we were interested in a farm-to-school program and might have an animal available,” said Meyer, who sells raw milk to customers from the family’s on-

farm store. “Our animals are 100 percent grass fed.”

The Meyer family is now working with Campbell and Dover Processing to schedule a date to have a cull cow from their herd butchered and converted into ground beef and hot dogs.

Meyer, whose family also has a large flock of Spanish goats available for brush control jobs, says she’s pleased with relationship their farm is building with Campbell and the St. Charles school district.

The website for the sources in this article are Wholesome Family Farm at www.wholesomefamilyfarms.com; Rae Rusnak at lrpoultryproduce.com; and Good Acre at thegoodacre.org. v

Soybeans closed higher five straight days

NYSTROM, from pg. 22

Outlook: The weather and optimism about possible Chinese demand improving sent March soybeans to a five-day string of higher closes. It has closed over $15 just three times since June 22 and all were this week. March and November soybeans soared to their highest since mid-June and March soy meal made a new contract high. The next upside target for March

soybeans may be the contract high at $15.72.25 per bushel. In the last five years, there has been a slight tendency for March soybeans to rise in the first half of January.

For the week, March soybeans soared 39.5 cents to $15.24, July jumped 40.25 cents higher to $15.33.25, and November 2023 gained 23.25 cents to $14.16.75 per bushel. v

spring, then terminates them just before or after drilling in the corn and beans.

Every WMA is different, with its own goals. What is planted and what is harvested is worked out between the farmer and the DNR. Usually the small grain and beans are harvested, and at least part of the corn, since the cover crops provide the forage.

After the drought, will there be food this winter?

“There’s still stuff out there,” Dwire said. “It’s just shorter.” And the early spring forage should be there.

The farmer is responsible for the inputs, planting and harvesting, so is the return worth it? Dwire thinks so.

“The food plots are not generally the most productive pieces,” he said. “That’s the reason they are WMAs. And the wildlife eat a large portion through the year. When we combine the corn, there’s nothing in the outside 12 rows. The wildlife take their toll on it. But it’s worthwhile. It works out good for us and it works out good for the DNR. I like working with them. They’ve been really good to work with.”

Kruger said the DNR currently has farmers to work the existing food plots. However, if a farmer drops out or the DNR adds food plots, “then we look for farmers already Minnesota Ag Water Qualitycertified or are willing to follow the MAWQC requirements as well as our DNR requirements, such as no-till or minimum tillage, no fall fertilizer applications or fall tillage, no neonic pesticides or use of neonicotinoid treated seed, limited chemical use, and willing to do diverse crop rotations and cover crops.”

While these practices improve water quality and benefit wildlife, WMA food plots constitute a very small portion of the land.

“Our hope is that the farmers doing our food plots see the benefits of the conservation practices on the WMA and decide to incorporate those practices on their own land,” Krueger said. “The more these conservation practices are implemented on private lands, the bigger the impact for water quality improvements and the wildlife benefits that go along with it.”

Anyone interested in pursuing Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification can find the Certification Specialist in your area at https://www. mda.state.mn.us/environment-sustainability/certifyyour-farm. v

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Concerns mounting over high cheese inventories

This column was written for the marketing week ending Dec. 30.

Dairy product prices at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange saw little change in the holiday-shortened week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, but StoneX pointed out in its Dec. 30 “Early Morning Update,” “Class III milk prices took a dip going into the end of the year. Demand in the dairy complex has been impacted in both international and domestic markets. Supply has been growing slightly, leading to no concerns in product availability, but plenty of issues moving that volume. The price outlook has shifted lower, mostly due to demand.”

MIELKE MARKET WEEKLY

By Lee Mielke

Western cheese demand was steady to softer at both retail and food service as the new year approached. Export demand was unchanged, with continued sales to international purchasers seeking delivery in second quarter 2023. Milk was being sold for below Class prices and cheesemakers are making use of the available volumes; though delayed deliveries of supplies, labor shortages, and unplanned downtime continue to keep production schedules reduced.

MARKETING

After jumping 14.5 cents the previous week, the 40-pound cheddar blocks climbed to $2.16 per pound on Dec. 29 (the highest since Nov. 22), but closed the last Friday of 2022 at $2.135. This is up 1.25 cents on the week, 3.5 cents above where they were on Dec. 1, and 15.5 cents above that week one year ago.

The 500-pound cheddar barrels climbed to $1.8675 on Dec. 29 (the highest since Dec. 12), but finished the week, the month, and the year at $1.8575. This is 6.25 cents higher on the week, but 4 cents below their Dec. 1 standing, 14.75 cents above a year ago, and an unsustainable 27.75 cents below the blocks.

There were nine sales of block on the short week and 24 for the month of December, up from eight in November. Barrel sales totaled eight for the week and 57 for the month, up from 28 in November.

Milk is widely available for Midwest cheesemakers, according to Dairy Market News. Plant managers report they were taking loads at discounts as low as $10 under Class for the second week in a row. Plants offered employees downtime last week, and more were expected to take time off this week as well. Cheese demand was softening the final week of the year. Plants in areas affected by winter storms were slowly getting things back in order. In some cases, employees were unable to get to the plant or it was shut down as a precaution.

n

Butter, which plunged 46 cents the previous week, closed the week and the year at $2.38 per pound. This is down 1.5 cents on the week, 50 cents lower than its Dec. 1 perch, and 7.25 cents below a year ago for the first time in a long time.

There were only five sales reported this week and 57 for December, down from 63 in November. A year ago, the butter price was climbing, jumping 20.25 cents the week following Christmas, after gaining 15.75 cents the week before that.

Dairy Market News says Midwest butter producers were met with trying conditions this week — from extreme winter weather to holiday effect

cream availability. Butter makers say the winter weather “put operations in flux,” and they are still working through a number of problems from employee shorthandedness to hauling snags. They expect cream availability to remain ample into the New Year. Butter demand has quieted significantly, says Dairy Market News, but butter producers are “setting sights on spring holiday demand.”

Cream availability continues to outpace demand in the west, according to Dairy Market News. Butter producers are using available cream for production as opposed to selling it at the current prices.

Transportation issues and unfavorable weather caused delays of cream deliveries for some. Butter producers were running busy schedules and butter availability continues to build ahead of softening demand. Some anticipate the bearish market trends to continue into first quarter, and there is hesitation to book loads beyond that — waiting to see if prices move lower.

Grade A nonfat dry milk closed Dec. 30 at $1.335 per pound, up a half-cent on the week, 1.25 cents below its Dec. 1 trading price, and 32 cents below a year ago. There were 13 sales reported on the week and 40 for the month, down from 41 in November.

CME dry whey finished the week and the year at

See MIELKE, pg. 25

Drones can be profitable side business

ABC DRONES, from pg. 15

ent products so they could have side by side comparisons, too. It was a great experience and we enjoyed working with them!” Sarah commented.

Sarah believes drones can be used for any size of farm. There are different models to choose from with varying prices. She mentioned if a farmer has a smaller number of acres, they have the opportunity to start their own side business and spray for others. While there are many factors involved, Sarah anticipated a buyer could see a return on investment in two years or less.

If interested in working with ABC Drones, the first step is to contact them by phone, (507) 7011483, or email, abcdronesllc@ gmail.com. They will send out a questionnaire to gather information such as the number of acres, types of field obstacles, and the services/product requested.

Sarah stated drone operators currently have the same require-

ments as helicopter operators. As a result, the process can be lengthy. She estimated the time from start to finish of the licensure and certification process may be about six months. “For us, it took a little over a year and a half. Now that a lot more people are doing it, the process is a lot faster. We really encourage people, if this is something they’re interested in, to reach out to get started.” If there is a need for spraying and/or seeding while the process is in motion, ABC Drones is willing to provide a quote.

This season is the perfect time to get in touch with ABC Drones. Sarah’s recommended “any time after harvest — these December, January, February months when farmers are planning for the next year.”

ABC Drones can provide demonstrations, and video footage of their drones in action can be viewed on their website, www. abcdronesllc.com. They will be at the Iowa Ag Expo in Des Moines from Jan. 31 through Feb. 2. v

last year.

ABC demonstrated their drones at Farmfest

$19 milk is not bringing in more cows to the herd

MIELKE, from pg. 24

40.5 cents per pound, 3 cents higher on the week, but 3.5 cents below where it was on Dec. 1, and 33.5 cents below a year ago. There were no sales for the week and 31 for the month, up from16 in November.

n

The year 2022 is behind us and we’re now into 2023. Speaking in the Jan. 2 “Dairy Radio Now” broadcast, StoneX broker Dave Kurzawski said 2022 was a “wild year” with several noteworthy events.

The record high $3.2675 per pound butter price was one of them, he said, but “the big take-away is the historical high prices which, characteristically bring on more milk and more cows, though we saw very slow growth in 2022.”

“We added 52,000 head between January and May,” Kurzawski explained, “and, since May, we only added 1,000. $19 milk is just not what it used to be. Costs of everything have gone up and that dovetails into what I see in 2023, which is continued inflation. We don’t know how long it will last, but inflationary cycles can last longer than you would expect.”

“Typically, there’s six to eight months between what the Fed does and some stabilization — although we may be seeing a little of that now,” he admitted. “The thought process is to see it get down to around 5 percent sometime in second quarter.”

“Based on the Fed’s monetary policy,

problem is,” says Kurzawski, “the Fed still has an expansionary fiscal policy; so it’s like we’re putting our foot on the gas and the brake at the same time. And this says nothing of the interplay with the labor market tightness and some lingering supply chain bottlenecks underscored entirely by this ongoing war and conflict in Ukraine.”

“There’s a lot of uncertainty,” he concluded, though he says he’s not bearish on commodities going into 2023. “We will continue to see higher-thannormal prices — at least well into first quarter.”

n

Woes continue in fluid milk sales. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s latest data reports October sales of U.S. packaged fluid products totaled 3.68 billion pounds, down 2.3 percent from October 2021.

Conventional product sales totaled 3.4 billion pounds, down 2.5 percent from a year ago. Organic products, at 237 million pounds, were up 2 percent, and represented a typical 6.4 percent of total sales for the month.

Whole milk sales totaled 1.3 billion pounds, up 4.2 percent from a year ago, up 1.4 percent year-to-date, and represented 34.1 percent of total milk sales year-to-date.

Skim milk sales, at 188 million pounds, were down 8.3 percent from a year ago and down 8.5 percent year-todate.

Total packaged fluid sales for the 10

months amounted to 35.8 billion pounds, down 2.2 percent from 2021.

Conventional product sales totaled 33.4 billion pounds, down 2.3 percent. Organic products, at 2.4 billion, were down 0.9 percent and represented 6.7 percent of total milk sales for the period.

The figures represent consumption in Federal milk marketing order areas, which account for approximately 92 percent of total fluid milk sales in the United States.

n

The last Global Dairy Trade Pulse of 2022 saw 2.06 million pounds of Fonterra whole milk powder find new owners at $3,205 per metric ton — down $10 from the previous week’s GDT.

Meanwhile, the GDT’s biggest customer, China, announced it will end its quarantine on travelers starting Jan. 8 as it continues to pull away from its zero-Covid policies.

n

Back on the home front; milk production is steady to higher in all regions, according to the USDA’s weekly update

“Overall, Class I sales are stable in the East — though orders have been mixed from bottling operations, with some contacts reporting cuts while others report additional orders,” the USDA writes. “Western contacts report lighter Class I orders as educational institutions are closed for the winter holidays. Extreme winter weather in the Midwest was proving to be a challenge for processors who were working to put the plentiful milk supplies to use. In some cases, Midwestern spot milk prices were reported from $10 under to Class III. Processors expect most of the milk will be put to use, while some loads may have to be discarded because of delays.”

n

Looking down under, “Warm temperatures in New Zealand prompted a

See MIELKE, pg. 26

Private pesticide applicator certification expires March 1

Farmers with Private Pesticide Applicator certifications will expire on March 1 and will need to renew that license for the 2023 growing season. The process to renew your license remains similar to what it has been from previous years. Farmers can renew permits again this year by using four options.

Attend an in-person renewal workshop conducted by University of Minnesota Extension staff. Preregistration is encouraged and available online. Walkins are still welcome, but available seats will be given to pre-registered attendees first. Bring an official picture ID, such as a driver’s license, your current permit card if you have one, and a check to pay the $75 permit fee. All attendees must arrive on time and stay for the entire workshop. Anyone 15 minutes late or who leaves before workshop completion will not get credit for the workshop. All workshop locations are listed in the mailed newsletters and at the UMN Extension Pesticide Safety website, pat.umn.edu.

Take the written exam that is available at your local County Extension offices. The 19th edition manual is the current reference for the exam and is available for $10 at your local County Extension office. Mail the $75 permit fee along with your test answer sheet in the envelope provided.

Take the exam online by going to the University of Minnesota Extension website and looking under the Private Pesticide applicators page. The $75 permit

fee is paid by credit card and the manual can be viewed online.

Attend a live online Zoom recertification workshop. You must pre-register at least five days prior to the session to attend the Zoom workshop. Check-in time starts 30-minutes prior to the start of the workshop, and you must have your applicator license on hand and available. You must have an internet connected device with a video camera, microphone and speaker. Participation is required. All Zoom workshops are limited to 50 people and on a first come, first serve basis. You must remain online for the entirety of the workshop to receive credit. The $75 fee is paid by credit card online.

First time Private Pesticide Applicators or those with certifications that expired prior to March 1 must use option 2 or 3 to be certified. The private applicators certificate is for farm operators who are applying restricted use pesticide products on their fields. This includes herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and other pest control products labeled “Restricted Use.”

For questions about the private pesticide applicator certification process, reach out to your local County Extension Office.

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

Flooding impacting Australian dairy

MIELKE,

from pg. 25

late peak in pasture conditions as the summer closes in,” says Dairy Market News. “Although reports suggest the current quality of feed may be somewhat tarnished, sources speculate that plenty of feed is available, as North Island milk producers struggle with lots of rain, amongst concerns of vulnerable maize growth in the area. Notably, in the South Island, milk production is looking promising and suggests that New Zealand’s milk production could recover in December.”

“The eastern portion of Australia is again experiencing surplus precipitation,” says Dairy Market News. “Damaging rainfall and flooding have been an enormous challenge for Australia’s dairy industry during the months of October and November. While Australia’s dairy industry anticipated a drop in seasonal milk production ahead of the flooding. Due to the impact of smaller milk producers exiting the industry at a very high rate, market representatives now project lower-than-anticipated milk production for the 2022-23 season. Input costs and limited grain availability, with high prices, grouped with labor issues, remain factors.”

StoneX says, “Stronger-than-expected EU production is offsetting weaker-than-expected Southern Hemisphere production. But the first quarter production forecast is higher than it was six months ago — due mostly to Europe. Improved weather is giving us more confidence in year-over-year gains for New Zealand in coming months; but both Australia and Argentina production was weaker than expected for November. Overall, the supply outlook looks decent, but falling dairy commodity prices will drag farm gate milk prices lower in the first half of 2023 which will slow milk production growth in late 2023 and early 2024.”

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

Real Estate Wanted

WANTED: Land & farms. I have clients looking for dairy, & cash grain operations, as well as bare land parcels from 40-1000 acres. Both for relocation & investments. If you have even thought about selling contact: Paul Krueger, Farm & Land Specialist, Edina Realty, 138 Main St. W., New Prague, MN 55372. paulkrueger@edinarealty.com (612)328-4506

Feed Seed Hay

FOR SALE: Large round bales baleage, fairly dry, 1st through 4th crop, feed test and delivery available. Jim Vermilya, 507-254-4807 or 507-951-3201 Dover MN.

Bins & Buildings

SILO

Farm Equipment

NH LX665 Kubota turbo skidloader, new tires, bucket, runs great, $15,900. Gehl 2415 discbine, good working cond, $6,900. Haybuster 2800 round & big square bale shredder, $13,900. 320-543-3523

Spraying Equip

2008 John Deere 4730 sprayer, 100’ booms, Boom Trac Pro 800 gal stainless tank, chemical inductor, 20” nozzle spacing, 5 way nozzle body, 3” front fill, RH fence line nozzle, $89,900. 320-510-0468

Stormor Bins & EZ-Drys. 100% financing w/no liens or red tape, call Steve at Fairfax Ag for an appointment. 888-830-7757

One Call Does It All!

With one phone call, you can place your classified line ad in The Land, Farm News and Country Today.

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

We buy Salvage Equipment Parts Available Hammell Equip., Inc. (507)867-4910

Tractors

NEW AND USED TRACTOR PARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 55, 50 Series & newer tractors, AC-all models, Large Inventory, We ship! Mark Heitman Tractor Salvage 715-673-4829

Harvesting Equip

2014 JOHN DEERE 640FD 40 ft Flex Draper, Dual Knife Drive, Flip Over Reel $55,000 (320) 510-0468

COUNTY, MINNESOTA LAND

AUCTION

2 TRACTS

The Dahlgren farms are located approx. 9 miles NW of Fairfax, MN or approx. 10 miles south of Bird Island, MN. The farms are further described as being located in Section 7, T113N - R33W, Bandon Township, Renville County, MN.

Both tracts represent productive, tillable farmland with CPI ratings well into the 90s!

CHARLES P. DAHLGREN ESTATE •

RICHARD & MARGARET DAHLGREN

Representing Attorney: Kristal R. Dahlager Anderson, Larson, Saunders, Klaassen, Dahlager & Leitch PLLP 331 S.W. Third Street | Willmar, MN 56201 | (320) 235-4313

Auction Managers: LaDon Henslin (320) 894-5959 & Allen Henslin (320) 979-1808

CONNIE KOENIG ESTATE

Take-down & clean up Specializing in silos in congested areas. FULLY INSURED mobile concrete crushing. 507-236-9446

Livestock Equipment

Calf Jackets, Heavy Duty, Waterproof, Washable, 2 Sizes, With 2” velcro in front $34; With 2” buckle in front $35. 10 or more is free shipping. Call for more information. Millers Canvas Shop 920-787-1994

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

WANTED: 365 to 750 bushel gravity boxes. JD 115 stalk chopper. All good condition. 320-266-6878

WANTED TO BUY: Older 4WD Tractor, 200-300HP in good condition. 507-647-2122 www.thelandonline.com

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.

or visit our website: SteffesGroup.com

Opening January 6 & Closing January 11 at 10AM

Online Steffes Auction 1/11, Upper Midwest Locations, Timed Online Auction

Opening January 10 & Closing on January 18 at 7PM

Lorensen’s 66 Service Liquidation Auction Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening January 20 & Closing on January 24 at 12PM

Online Hay Auction - Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening January 26 & Closing January 31 at 10AM

Riverbend Industries, Inc Business Liquidation Auction, Moorhead, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening January 31 & Closing on February 7 at 1PM

Palo Alto County, IA Land Auction - 80± Deeded Acres, 1 Tract, Timed Online Auction

Opening February 8 & Closing on February 15 at 10AM

Polk County, MN Court Ordered Land Auction 160± Acres, Euclid, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening February 10 & Closing on February 14 at 12PM

Online Hay Auction - Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening February 15 & Closing February 21 at 10AM

Richard Gilbery Retirement Auction, Moorhead, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening February 24 & Closing on February 28 at 12PM

Online Hay Auction - Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening March 3 & Closing March 7 at 10AM

Jim & Yvonne Baker Farm Retirement Auction, Sabin, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening: March 9 & Closing March 16 at 10AM

Kevin Jucht Farm Retirement Auction, Larchwood, IA, Timed Online Auction

Opening: Tuesday, Mar 14 & Closing on March 21 at 1PM

Keith & Sharon Barkema Equipment Auction, Klemme, IA, Timed Online Auction

Opening March 24 at 5pm & Closing March 28 at 12PM

Online Hay Auction - Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction

Wednesday, March 29 at 10AM Live Onsite Auction

Keith P. Chisholm Farm Retirement Auction, Gary, MN

Opening March 29 & Closing on April 5 at 1PM

Goodhue County, MN Land Auction - 406± Acres, Wanamingo, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening April 7 & Closing on April 11 at 12PM

Online Hay Auction - Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction

Opening April 21 & Closing on April 25 at 12PM

Online Hay Auction - Quality Tested, Litchfield, MN, Timed Online Auction

PARCEL 1

74+/- Acres of Prime Class A Crop Land, Dodge Co., MN

*** PID# R10.010.0601, Taxes For 2022 $2,312.00

*** Part Of The N1/2 Of SE 1/4 Sec. 10 Concord TWP, Dodge Co. MN

*** Address: 536XX 200th Ave., West Concord, MN

*** 72.41 Tillable Acres

*** Area: 74+/- Acres Bare Land (To Be Surveyed Prior To Closing Date)

*** Crop Productivity Index: 97.5 Weighted Average

*** Lays Very Nice With Drain Tile In Place

*** To Be Sold 74 x Dollar Amount Bid

PARCEL 2

PARCEL 4

31.79 Acres of Prime Class A Crop Land, Dodge Co., MN

*** PID# R10.011.0500, Taxes

For 2022 $1,654.00

*** Part Of The SW 1/4 Of SW 1/4 Sec. 11, Concord TWP, Dodge Co. MN

*** Address: 2006X 540th St., West Concord, MN

*** Area: 31.79+/- Acres Bare Land

*** 30+/- Tillable Acres

*** Crop Productivity Index: 95.3 Weighted Average

*** Lays Very Nice With Drain Tile In Place

*** To Be Sold 31.79 x Dollar Amount Bid

PARCEL 5

15 Acre Country Building Site, Rambler Style Home, Dodge Co., MN

*** 1981 Rambler Style House With Oversized 2 Car Attached Garage, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 1,526 Square Feet Finished Living Area, Deck, Cased Well

*** Address: 19490 540th Street, West Concord, MN 55985

*** PID# R10.015.0900, Taxes For 2022 $2,362.00

*** Non-Conforming Septic System, New Buyer Shall Be Responsible For Bring Septic System Up To Conforming Status With Dodge County

*** To Be Sold By The Gross Dollar Amount Bid

*** Nice Machine Shed And Livestock Shed

PARCEL 3

6+/- Acre Building Site, Dodge Co., MN *** PID# R10.011.0500, Taxes For 2022 $1,654.00 *** Address: 20062 540th St., West Concord, MN

8+/- Acres With Hog Finishing Barn, Dodge Co., MN

Hot Barn Built In 2002

Manure Pit Is 8’ Deep

To Be Sold By The Gross Dollar

*** 398’ x 42’ Curtained Hog Finishing Barn, Slated Manure Pit, (2) Loadout Chutes, (2) Hog Slat Bulk Feed Bins, 400 AMP Electrical Service, 2 Driveways, Air Systems Ventilation System, Manure Pit Is Approx. 3/4 Full

MATT MARING AUCTION CO. INC. • PO Box 37, Kenyon, MN 55946 507-789-5421 • 800-801-4502 Matt Maring, Lic. #25-28 • 507-951-8354 Kevin Maring Lic 25-70 & Adam Engen Lic# 25-93 Broker: Maring Auction & Realty Inc. Lic# 40241191

Terms: $30,000 earnest money for parcel 1, 3 & 4 and $15,000 earnest money for parcel 2 & 5 down the day of the auction; which is non-refundable if buyer fails to close on said property. The balance is due and payable to the sellers on April 5, 2023 at which time the buyer(s) shall receive a clear and marketable title and possession. All real estate taxes due and payable in the year of 2023 shall be paid by the buyer(s). All real estate is selling in as-is condition with no warranties or guarantees expressed or implied by the sellers or any of their agents. All bidders and buyers must conduct their own due diligence. All bidders and buyers must have their finances in order prior to auction date. For registering bidders must supply auction co. with a pre-approval letter from a lending institution. The previous owner of all parcels has by Minnesota law a 65 day from date of auction; first right of refusal. If the previous owner exercises their first right of refusal, all high bidders of the auction shall receive all earnest monies paid. No buyers premium. Broker: Maring Auction & Realty Inc., Lic# 40241191

Ag Management Solutions 5

Agri Systems/Systems West

AmeriGlide 23

Beck's Hybrids

Clark Auction Service 28

Crystal Valley Coop 12

Dairyland Seed Co., Inc.

Grain Millers 21

Greenwald Farm Center

Hertz Farm Management 27

Kannegiesser Truck 13

Kerkhoff Auction

Letcher Farms 24

Marbel Seed

Mathiowetz Construction Co. 20

Matt Maring Auction Co. 30

Mike's Collision & Repair Center

MN Corn Growers 9

MN Pork Producers

Northland Buildings 4

Pruess Elevator, Inc. 29

Pumps Motor & Bearings LLC

Rush River Steel & Trim 19

Safe Steps

Schweiss Doors 29

Smiths Mill Implement, Inc. 29

Snirt Stopper, LLC

Steffes Group 30

Sullivan Auctioneers

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There is mystery surrounding the name of Odessa, a small town in Minnesota’s Big Stone County. It sits in Odessa township which was settled by German-Russian farmers who left the fertile ground of Ukraine to avoid conscription in the Tsar’s army. The township was named after the Ukrainian city of Odessa and that would seem to settle it.

But the more popular story is that Odessa’s first settler, A.D. Beardsley, named it after his three-yearold daughter, Dessa, who died of diphtheria. In grief he would cry out, “Oh, Dessa.”

That’s the story Catherine Teske heard when she came to town. Teske has been a town leader for over 40 years — beginning on the village council and now as mayor. During those days, the school and water tower sat atop a hill south of the Teske home.

The school is long gone from that hill, but the round-roofed, WPA-built school gym still sits in downtown Odessa — serving as city hall and community center. It is busy with wedding dances and reunions, basketball and pickleball games, and community bingo parties during Easter and Thanksgiving which raise funds for the fire department. It is also the fitness center, with exercise machines and indoor walking.

The community center is a mighty asset for a town which dropped from almost 200 people when Teske arrived in 1970 to a little over 100 by the last census; but there’s no despair. Young couples have moved back, occupying their parents’ former homes, and four babies have been born in recent months.

Odessa

The annual 4th of July celebration is still a big hit, with the town’s traditional lawnmower parade led by a police car. Enthusiastic kids add more units to the parade, which is followed by a potluck dinner and a packed town for evening fireworks.

Odessa, Minn.

In recent years the town lost its café, gas station and grain elevator. But there is a new business: an RV park where area construction workers call home. The oldest business in town is the Agassiz and Odessa Mutual Insurance Company which formed in 1888.

The one active congregation in town is Trinity Lutheran Church. The Methodist congregation closed in 1984. Paula and Darold Bailey were the last couple to be married there. They purchased the building and made it their home and the home of Big Stone Western Art, a studio for their hand woven baskets and sculptures (open only by appointment these days).

Odessa can boast a building on the National Register of Historic Places: a brick jailhouse built in 1900. It’s not in good repair, but looks like it could still take customers. So if you visit Odessa, behave. In a town this small, it is easy to pick out strangers. v

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

Tuesday, Jan. 17

8:00 a.m. Large Equipment Move In

Noon Exhibitor Set Up

Noon Nitrogen Smart Session 1

2:00 p.m. MARL Board Meeting

3:00 p.m. Nitrogen Smart Session 2

5:00 p.m. Corn Board Meeting

6:00 p.m. Hospitality Rooms Open

Thursday, Jan. 19

All day MARL Workshop

6:30 a.m. Registration Opens

7 a.m. MCGA PAC Breakfast

7:30 a.m. Early Riser Session

9:00 a.m. MSGA Annual Meeting

9:00 a.m. Trade Show Opens

9:00 a.m. CPR Training

10:00 a.m. MN Ag in the Classroom Hands-on Learning Session

Wednesday, Jan. 18

All day MARL Workshop

7:30 a.m. Booth Setup

7:30 a.m. Registration Opens

8:00 a.m. Learning Session 1 - Carbon Credit Update

9:00 a.m. MCGA Annual Meeting

9:00 a.m. Trade Show Opens

9:00 a.m. CPR Training

10:00 a.m. MN Ag in the Classroom Hands-on Learning Session

Noon Lunch

Noon Linder Farm Network Live Show

1:00 p.m. Learning Session 2 - Making Your Nitrogen Go Further

2:30 p.m. Afternoon Keynote Panel - Animal Ag Panel

3:30 p.m. Trade Show Reception

4:00 p.m. Trade Show Closes

4:00 p.m. MCGA Silent Auction and Reception

5:30 p.m. Dinner

7:00 p.m. MSGA Expo After Hours: Sports Carnival

11:00 a.m. Learning Session 3 - Watershed Restoration Noon Lunch

12:30 p.m. Lunch Keynote - Marissa Nehlsen

2:00 p.m. Learning Session 4 - 2023 Farm Bill Panel

3:00 p.m. Trade Show Closes

Marrisa Nehlsen

Marissa Nehlsen is arriving to this year’s MN AG EXPO with a goal. The financial expert, who specializes in ag clients, wants to help farmers ease their tax burden on the road to financial prosperity. Nehlsen, CEO of Freedom Financial Group, will offer the agricultural industry her expert advice on how farmers can better manage their finances as part of her keynote address.

The agenda is subject to change and will be regularly updated on the MN AG EXPO website. Stay up-to-date and register today by visiting mnagexpo.com.

Carbon Credit Update

Carbon sequestration is a hot topic in agriculture. Leading experts will discuss the benefits and break down concerns surrounding storing carbon and how farmers can potentially get paid for carbon credits.

2023 Farm Bill Panel

With the current Farm Bill expiring in September 2023, commodity groups have spent more than a year conducting learning sessions, developing priorities and meeting with lawmakers and USDA officials. This panel will bring leaders from across agriculture to discuss the policies they wish to see included in the Farm Bill.

MSGA PRESENTS

Enjoy a night filled with games, prizes, drinks and a silent auction.

Tickets are $25 at the door.

Loose Moose Saloon 19 S Front St

Mankato, MN 56001

Connect with the agriculture community ahead of MN AG EXPO, starting at 6 p.m. on Jan. 17 at the Hilton Garden Inn, downtown Mankato. New this year, two hospitality rooms will be available, thanks to Profinium, MEG Corp and Chevron Renewable Energy Group.

Join us and recharge before the big show!