The Land - June 23, 2023

1976, Where Farm and Family Meet”

Wet, but not upset...

Rain didn’t keep horse enthusiasts from enjoying the Minnesota Horse Expo.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Dave and Wendy Remus and their prized Palominos; Big J’s Transport is in for the long haul; Wright Farms expands dairy operation; and more!

A hand-written treasure

In the days leading up to the holiday, my mom can’t resist saying “Knee high by the Fourth of July” every time she passes by a corn field. As it goes, I find myself murmuring the same, now outdated, phrase just for the sake of bringing back old memories.

Summer nostalgia can certainly feel personal, but I’d guess we all have an overlapping theme or two. A few of my June through August memories are of the early morning Fourth and Southview newspaper route, barefoot bike rides to the city swimming pool, softball games at Freedom Park, Wednesday concerts at the band shell, and the around the clock block of neighborhood friends. Many evenings began with my dad at the grill, my mom in the kitchen, and my siblings and me on the back porch racing to husk corn.

LAND MINDS

By Laura Cole

OPINION

Not too long after one of my dad’s more major surgeries, he asked me to follow him to his office — a small room past his workshop where he liked to play his records and watch old comedies like Laurel and Hardy. It’s where he kept his high school yearbooks, remembrances from his years in the Army and as a police officer, and many handmade Father’s Day gifts.

He was weak from recovery and used his foot to slide out a cardboard box from under his desk, and I lifted it onto his chair. It contained dozens of yellow legal pads, the lines filled with his one-of-a-kind handwriting. It turned out he had written his way through his eighth grade memories as a farm kid in South Dakota. He threw in some fiction perhaps for the sake of courage.

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My mom still lives in the house I grew up in, and so I have the luxury of pulling into the driveway every now and then and opening the same front door I used to barrel through as a kid. The laundry still dries on the same clothesline, the basement stairs creak the same way they always have. But some things have changed. The bedroom decor of teenagers has long been replaced. The kitchen cabinets were switched out maybe five or so years ago. I don’t understand the new system, and I can’t get over that the bread is no longer in the bread drawer. “This is the bread drawer,” my mom tells me gesturing in a different direction, and I feel unreasonably adamant that there can be no new designated bread drawer. Also, my dad has died. It’s easier to focus on the bread drawer.

Earlier this year, ag writer LeeAnne Bulman wrote a piece about the history of the former town of Delhi, Wisconsin. She mentioned there was a woman who had owned a cheese factory in Delhi, but her name hadn’t survived history. (I can’t help but wonder if the reason is less to do with dairy and more to do with being female.)

The idea of surviving history stayed with me. On a familial level, we do so much to keep our people with us: giving babies an inherited first or middle name (fingers crossed it’s a good one); hanging on to heirlooms; and clinging to family traditions. But if you need the reminder (like I do): print a few photos from your phone every so often.

8 — Wright Farms ‘Got Milk’ and so much more 10 — Husband and wife make a great

He asked me if I would type the stories up, maybe see what I could do with them. I had no idea he had been writing, or even enjoyed writing. More than surprise was the emotion that came with understanding why he was sharing his writing. Limited sand in the hour glass. A quiet dream with a now louder ache. A hope to survive history, perhaps.

Each notebook has a circled number in the top right corner to keep track of the order, and some pages have a few extra lines paperclipped in. I’m impressed he went without the aid of the backspace button or copy and paste. I can picture him choosing his words carefully— and when needed, editing with whiteout, waiting for the drying period, and writing again over the corrected strip.

I’m not sure my dad would have ever gotten the hang of typing. If he had, it certainly would have saved him some time, but to have his stories in his own writing is a gift technology would have taken away.

Below are some of his recollections about Midwest farm life in June circa 1957.

Vacation was definitely here. I was sitting on a tractor heading out to the field to do some serious cultivating and it was early in the morning. Anyway, according to my standards, it was early.

With chores to do, Dad would tell me every morning to get an early start before the day gets hot. I wished I had the nerve to tell him that no matter

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On the road: Scandinavian summer

Everywhere you look on the sundrenched Stockholm streets you see blue and yellow. Blue sky, blue water, and the powder blue field of the Swedish flag dominate in all directions.

Bobbing in these blue seas are islands of fair-haired Swedes hiking, biking, boating and walking on or alongside the wharf of the city’s best people-watching street, Strandvägen. The bright yellow Nordic cross on waving Swedish flags adds to the luster.

FARM & FOOD FILE

By Alan Guebert

OPINION

And right there, in a city so bright, so elegant, and so welcoming that you fall in love with it, you promise perfect strangers that you will return to “Paris of the North.”

They understand; everyone, after all, speaks English and everyone seems to enjoy the city as much as you. It’s the perfect gateway to Scandinavia, a loosely-defined region that a local guide assures us means only Sweden, Norway and Denmark.

After a four-day soak in Stockholm’s warm sun, tasty food, and numerous museums, we take a short flight to Oslo, Norway’s capital, for two more days of walking, ferry riding, and sauna sitting.

Our traveling clan — six of us including a threeyear-old granddaughter — isn’t the only international group in the city. NATO defense ministers from nearly 30 nations have taken over Oslo’s historic center for an “informal” meeting. Local police, guard dogs, and armed soldiers, all stiffly formal, are on street corners and atop buildings.

Even at that, Oslo is as walkable as Stockholm with few hills, much shoreline, gleaming museums, and sunny public spaces. Most grassy parks are crowded with sunbathers soaking in June’s 20 hours of daily rays. A steady onshore breeze cools all.

Soon we’re rocking gently on the train a few hours northwest to rural Dombås, where another train

takes us further north to Åndalsnes on the famous Rauma railway. A fellow passenger informs us that we’re entering “troll country” and granddaughter Nora warns all when a welcoming conductor encourages her to sound the train’s whistle.

Troll Country’s towering mountains, sturdy stone bridges, and snow-fed waterfalls come so fast there isn’t time for both an “Ooh!” and an “Ahh!” before the next breathtaking sight comes around the bend.

Throughout the narrow, shadowshrouded valleys are farms whose chief crop, grass, is fodder for sheep, goats and a few cattle. Stately, three-story red barns are testament to long winters when the livestock, like their owners, are forced inside.

Soon the lush meadows give way to more fjords and more memories. For the next four days we rest, hike in the nearby Sunnmøre Alps, peer over Geiranger Fjord, and kayak a bathtub-smooth, 1,000-foot deep Storfjorden.

I ask our kayak keeper if the locals fish the mountainous fjord. “Yes,” he replies, “but it’s better fishing at the ocean” (an hours-long cruise down the lengthy fjord) “where the water is less deep.”

Norway: Where the ocean is deep but fjords are deeper.

Revived, we board a 44-foot palace of a boat for a

breathtaking, three-hour trip down Hjørundfjorden to rainy Ålesund and then a short flight south to Bergen, Norway’s second largest city and its first capital.

Landing in Bergen is worth the price of any airline ticket. Everywhere you look there are too many islands to count surrounded by the dark North Sea and ships of every make and nationality: colorful oil tankers, massive cruise ships, gray coast guard cutters, sleek sailboats with billowing spinnakers, and working fishing trawlers.

After checking into our hotel, little Nora takes charge again and delivers her dinner plan: pizza in a park. After 10 days of the North’s finest salmon, monkfish, lamb, and duck, supper is take-out pizzas, a pint of fresh strawberries, and lukewarm refreshments on a grassy slope overlooking a wharfside neighborhood.

Three hundred yards away the luxury cruise ship Queen Mary 2 awaits for her passengers to return from city sightseeing and their not-pizza supper.

The next day, our final full day together, we ride Bergen’s famed funicular to an even better view of Bergen, the North Sea, and beyond. We can’t quite see America; but we, like generations of Scandanavians before us, know it’s there and trust it will shelter us soon.

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

Letters to the editor are always welcome.

The loss of a Land legend

It is with a heavy heart we bid farewell to Danny Storlie, age 75, of Waseca, Minn. A long time fixture at The Land, Storlie passed away on June 10 at his home.

Wednesday, June 28

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Born on March 31, 1948 in Waseca, Danny attended the University of Minnesota before entering the Army. He was deployed to Germany, working with the military police. Completing his military career, Danny returned to Waseca and began farming for his family. It was also during this time he worked for The Land assisting our advertisers

until his retirement in 2018.

Danny was an avid gardener and enjoyed sharing tips and garden progress reports throughout the season. He also enjoyed traveling and practicing his passion for photography. He and his wife of 53 years, Connie, enjoyed camping — especially in the Boundary Waters.

Along with Connie, Danny leaves behind a daughter, Rebecca Volovsek of Waseca; granddaughters, Emma and Molly Volovsek of Waseca; and a sister, JoAnn (Les) Storlie of Waseca.

Danny always had good stories to tell with humor and his home-spun wisdom. Our loss is heaven’s gain. v

Old farm houses and making a home vs. homemaking

It’s a well-known fact in the farm community that when you move onto a place, you don’t do it for the house that’s there.

Many a flowery handkerchief has been ravaged by farm women throughout history because of that fact.

TABLE TALK

Farm women and men gaze at the same kinds of things: the amount of storage and space allowed in the buildings of their choices. The women size up a home in that way, and farmers size up the outbuildings (the machine shed, repair shop, livestock facilities, etc.).

By Karen Schwaller

not. After all, the farm home is not where the money is made. But as history goes, it isn’t always made in the outbuildings either.

My parents had been married a few months before they moved out to a farm.

Mom said when they first brought her mother out to see where they would be living, Grandma cried as she walked around the house.

er other rodents claimed residency there.

Mom wasn’t a fan of the house either, but, she was in it — with a new wedding ring on her finger; so she knew she’d better get to work.

we turned out of the driveway to see what that was all about. The house was moved, and there was electrical and plumbing work to do, along with hardwood floors to uncover and every room to paint.

Women get the home that comes with the farm, whether she strikes gold or

She didn’t cry because of the home’s beauty and spacious living quarters, but because of a small house that had not been lived in for a while, with the exception of a few obvious neighborhoods of mouse families—and whatev-

Father’s journal comforting

LAND MINDS, from pg. 2

when I start, it’s going to get hot and I was going to be out there all day anyhow.

I had taken my shirt off and put the tractor in road gear and sped down the field lane. The morning air felt cool against my hide. I had even taken my cap off to let the breeze flow through my hair.

The cornfield I was going to was in the northwest corner of our land. The land had a row of trees running along its half-mile length. Dad called it the avenue because it reminded him of the tree-lined avenues in the city. He also called it that because he liked saying things like, “Well, just the other day I was walking down the avenue.”

The entire month of June was devoted to cultivating. Cultivate, cultivate, and then cultivate some more with a day or two thrown in to toss bales. I hardly had time for anything else. Because of all our acres of corn and beans, I sometimes went out after supper to cultivate.

My days were long and hot, but at the end of the day when I lay in bed with the cool night air blowing in from the open window, I had the satisfaction that I had accomplished something.

Before I dropped the cultivator in the ground, I looked around and said,

“There is no better artwork by man than a cornfield early in the morning.” I had been cultivating for a few days now, but when I came home at noon, Mom gave me grief about being out in the field without my shirt or cap on.

After our noon meal, I promised to wear my shirt and get something on my head. I soaked my shirt and cap in the water tank before heading out with the tractor. If I couldn’t look cool, I would at least feel cool. With the hot afternoon sun baking me on the tractor, it didn’t take long for the shirt and cap to be completely dried.

Even in these Sahara-like conditions, I didn’t mind being out here. I was alone with my thoughts while watching the rows of corn continually going by the shovels of the cultivator. No one talking; no one around. It’s just me in the middle of this big field. I’m so glad to be out of school. I’m working with the soil. Let the elements rain down on me. I don’t mind.

What makes a time nostalgic, I think, are the feelings of warmth, joy and safety which surround the memory. In turn, it can bring comfort to the everyday like July’s corn fields — knee high or otherwise. Would every quiet dream climb wild.

Laura Cole is the staff writer of The Land. She may be reached at lcole@ TheLandOnline.com. v

She plugged mouse holes in drawers and walls, extracted mouse nests, flounced rodent raisins out, and scoured until her red 1940’s/50’s kitchen linoleum was only pink. She hung a little wallpaper and before long, the house passed her litmus test. A few children later, Mom and Dad added on to the house with a basement and another addition … and remained married throughout all of that renovation — happily or not, as it goes in home remodeling.

I also married someone who lived on a farm. The farm had an old small house which was built in the late 1800s. By this time (the mid 1980s), the foundation was in tough shape and the mice were invading like young children do when they know you’re in the bathroom. It was a battle of wits with chess-like strategy, waiting to see where the mice would appear next.

To this day, when I see beet roots in the garden, I want to go running into the night.

In an unexpected twist, our neighbors, who had moved to town, said they wanted something to be done with their much larger country home and asked if we would buy it.

Our kitchen door was still swinging shut behind us and the gravel flew as

And as with most families with young adult children, they soon move out following graduation. But not in our family. When our kids graduated, we moved out — and on to a nearby place where the selling point was a machine shed that could hold the indigenous people and farming tools of a small country. Yet the house hadn’t been lived in for some time.

I began to get the same shivers my mother had gotten all those years ago. We eventually tore that house down and built a new one. Home builders say people design homes differently as they get older, and that is what we found out.

As our home was being built in a way that we could live in it as we aged, I called a college friend of mine who was excited about her upcoming trip to California to spend a week on the golf course with her husband. Her life was so different than mine.

I told her I was excited about the high toilets in our new farm house. She must have wondered when I lost my way.

Karen Schwaller writes from her grain and livestock farm near Milford, Iowa. She can be reached at kschwaller@evertek.net v

Reflecting on special hymns for special people

God was gracious and granted me four wonderful parents. My own biological parents who did their best to raise me, and my farmer’s parents who did a fantastic job raising him.

This is the first year that I didn’t have a parent to purchase a Mother’s Day or Father’s Day card for. It is strange feeling. This year these two days on the calendar are flooding my mind with plenty of memories. It’s a good thing that my allergies are acting up as they provide me with a great excuse for needed tissues.

FROM MY FARMHOUSE KITCHEN

By Renae B. Vander Schaaf

May is an extremely busy time on the farm, so my Mother’s Day cards didn’t always get done on time. Sometimes I was so late, the stores had removed the Mother’s Day cards from their displays. Then I had to make cards. A challenge indeed, because it was impossible to put into words what I meant. The store-bought cards could better explain my sentiments.

Last year, I was late with mom’s card; but I sure am glad that a card and letter were sent to her before she left on vacation to see her new greatgrandson.

It was at this time that my mom began her last month of life on this earth.

She called me as she was preparing leave on a vacation. She wanted to know who to vote for, so she could absentee vote before leaving. We talked a bit about things, then she said, “I’m getting too old to go on trips anymore.”

One of the last things she did before leaving the house was to have her great-granddaughters put a clean table cloth on the kitchen table. She almost always did this before leaving. This table cloth was a favorite of hers. It had colorful chickens in the fabric print.

“Because,” she would say. “It will look so cheery and welcoming when we get home. Or if I don’t make it back, then it will look nice for whoever comes in.”

My sister, two aunts and my mom left on vacation as they had done many times before. They made it

safely to Kentucky, but my mom soon fell. She needed stitches in her knee and was taken to the emergency room. When the doctor noticed her difficulty in breathing he admitted her for observation. Several weeks later, she was in the arms of her Savior whom she loved so much.

One of the hymns she had chosen for her funeral was Day By Day. The words to this hymn were definitely how she lived her life and echo the advice that she would often give to us. It was written in 1865 by Karolina W. Sandell-Berg. Day by day, and with each passing moment, Strength I find, to meet my trials here; Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment, I’ve no cause for worry or for fear…

I hadn’t sung this hymn for a long time, so was very thankful for the reminder at mom’s funeral. Several months later, one of my granddaughters was visiting us. She went to church with us that morning and we sang Day By Day. As we left, she said that we had sung this hymn at great-grandma’s funeral.

The comment from this soon to be nine-year-old granddaughter made me realize the hymns we enjoy singing while working in the kitchen tell something about us and others might associate with us.

I remembered some of the hymns my parents had chosen for their funerals.

My dad’s, of course, was “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms.” It was the hymn we walked in to his funeral as a family. Not a one of us can ever hear that hymn and not think of him.

It was his request to have all his chil dren, grandchildren, and great grand children provide the special music at the country church he loved. Some of us (me) do not possess much musical talent (if any) yet it was good to raise our voices together and sing “I have blessed peace within.” My parents prayed that all their descendants would be able to claim blessed peace.

My farmer’s father was the first to arrive at Heaven’s Gate in 2015. He had planned his funeral with great detail which made things a whole lot easier for us all.

One of the hymns he chose was one I have often caught myself

humming, “Jesus Paid It All.” But that isn’t the one that reminds me of him. Rather the congregational hymn sung at his funeral, could have been written by him, as he was firm in his faith and always ready to share the gospel with anyone he met.

My faith has found a resting place, Not in device or creed;

I trust the ever-living One, His wounds for me shall plead.

I need no other argument, I need no other plea,

It is enough that Jesus died, And that He died for me.

An interesting note: our fathers’ hymns are right next to each other in our church hymnal.

My dear farmer’s mother was a precious jewel with a twinkle in her eye and smile. The last two years of her life after her Johnny died were not easy. Everyone who knew her, realized that she was a good woman and a decent person.

Yet Gertrude Roghair Vander Schaaf recognized her sinfulness and her need for the Lord Jesus Christ. With a humble heart filled with gratitude, she remembered that Jesus Christ left His throne in glory, to come to earth to die for her, you and me. She chose a hymn written by Charles Wesley.

And can it be that I should gain

An int’rest in the Savior’s blood?

Died He for me, who caused His pain— For me, who Him to death pursued?

Amazing love! How can it be, That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

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

June 28 — Beef Pasture Walk — Elk River, Minn. — Learn and converse about establishing and restoring pastures, managing grazing, identifying plants, cattle health, body condition scoring, and responding to forage emergencies and drought. For more information, please visit z.umn. edu/2023beefpasturewalk.

July 7 — Practical Farmers of Iowa Field Day — Fonda, Iowa — The topic will be Drilling Down on Oat Varieties, Double-Crop Soybeans and Rotational Grazing. The event will be hosted by Neil & Elizabeth Peterson and sons Paul & Timothy. For more information, please visit practicalfarmers.org/fielddays.

July 11 — Meeker County Garden Tour — Litchfield, Minn. — This year’s lineup consists of five gardens in the Litchfield area that will highlight gardening techniques, annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs, and the story behind each location’s inspiration. Contact the Meeker County Extension office at (320) 693-5275.

July 12 — Soil Health Field Day — Grove City, Minn. — Different soil management topics will be covered including interseeding, adding cover crops to a rotation, and the importance of soil structure. Contact Taylor Herbert at therbert@umn.edu or (612) 3945229.

July 12-13 — Youth Tractor and Farm Safety Certification — Zumbrota, Minn. — This training teaches youth 14 years and older about

Calendar of Events

safe equipment operation and general farm safety. An online course (approximately 8 to 10 hours in length) must be completed prior to attending the two-day in-person training. Contact Emily Krekelberg at krek0033@umn.edu or (612) 756-3977.

Additional Dates and Locations:

July 19-20 — Ada, Minn.

July 24-25 — Pine City, Minn.

Aug. 1-2 — Rushford, Minn.

July 12-15 — Pipestone Lamb and Wool Sheep for Profit School — Pipestone, Minn. — The purpose of the school is to improve sheep management skills, increase profitability and form business relationships. The school will combine lecture, group discussion and visits to Pipestone area sheep operations. Contact the Pipestone Lamb and Wool Management Program at melinda. lamote@mnwest.edu or (800) 658-2330.

July 13 — Kernza Field Day — Madison, Minn. — This is an opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge and connect with experienced Kernza growers and researchers who have been advancing the breeding, production and marketing of the nation’s first perennial grain. For more information and to register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kernzafield-day-a-frame-farm-tickets-156553282081,

July 17-18 — MSCA Summer Beef Tour and Trade Show — Slayton, Minn. — The quarterly board meeting of the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association will be on July 17, followed by the annual Political Action Committee fundraiser. The tour and trade show will take place on July 18 with this year’s tour beginning in Pipestone, Minn. Contact Angie Ford at (507) 360-7937 or Glenn Johnson at (507) 820-1502.

FSA local nominations open

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is now accepting nominations for county committee members. Agricultural producers may be nominated for candidacy for the county committee if they participate or cooperate in a USDA program.

USDA encourages minority producers, women and beginning farmers or ranchers to nominate, vote and hold

office.

All nomination forms for the 2023 election must be postmarked or received in the local FSA office by Aug. 1.

Election ballots will be mailed to eligible voters beginning Nov. 6.

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

July 19 — Practical Farmers of Iowa

Field Day — Spencer, Iowa — The topic will be Relay Cropping, Permanent Clover and Irrigation Systems in Northwest Iowa. The event will be hosted by Patrick White & Chuck White. For more information, please visit practicalfarmers.org/field-days.

July 19 — Soil Health Workshop — Faribault, Minn. — The workshop will feature soil scientist Liz Haney, co-developer of the Haney Soil Test, and Minnesota farmers will share their experiences with cover cropping and reduced tillage. Contact Alan Kraus at alan@ cleanriverpartners.org or (715) 8971646.

Additional Dates and Locations:

July 20 — Cannon Falls, Minn.

July 25 — Partners in Ag Innovation Conference — Willmar, Minn. — This year’s theme is Together Towards Tomorrow and will focus on the Ag industry’s biggest trends and concerns that need to be collectively worked on together to solve. Contact smikolich@starkgroupinc.com.

July 28 — Practical Farmers of Iowa Field Day — Zumbrota, Minn. — The topic will be Converting Row Crops to Perennial Pasture. The event will be hosted by Zach Knutson & Brooke Calaway. For more information, please visit practicalfarmers.org/field-days.

Aug. 1-3 — Farmfest — Morgan, Minn. — Products, services and technologies from over 500 exhibitors and vendors will be showcased over 50 acres of land. For questions and inquiries, email IDEAgOps@IDEAgGroup.com or call (877) 611-8161.

Aug. 10 — Practical Farmers of Iowa Field Day — Austin, Minn. — The topic will be Creating a Legacy of Conservation

in Traditional Row Cropping. The event will be hosted by Joe Merten. For more information, please visit practicalfarmers.org/field-days.

Aug. 26 — Practical Farmers of Iowa Field Day — Buffalo Center, Iowa — The topic will be The Secrets of Stock Cropping and will be hosted by Zack Smith. For more information, please visit practicalfarmers.org/fielddays.

Aug. 26-27 — 57th Annual Threshing Bee — Donnelly, Minn. — This event will feature John Deere tractors and equipment. Contact Harry Kruize at chkruize@runestone.net or (320) 246-3337 or (320) 288-1298.

Sept. 6 — Practical Farmers of Iowa Field Day — Spirit Lake, Iowa — The topic will be Microgreens and Marketing to Build a Food System in Northwest Iowa. The event will be hosted by Calvin & Krissy Thiessen. For more information, please visit practicalfarmers.org/field-days.

Sept. 8 — Practical Farmers of Iowa Field Day — Belmond, Iowa — The topic will be Creating Space for Conservation and Regenerative Practices With Supportive Landowners. The event will be hosted by Josh Nelson & Family, Paul Thompson, and Elena Meyer. For more information, please visit practicalfarmers.org/field-days.

Sept. 9 — Practical Farmers of Iowa Field Day — Spring Grove, Minn. — The topic will be Pastured Pigs in a Wagon Wheel Pasture at Nettle Valley Farm. The event will be hosted by Dayna Burtness & Nick Nguyen. For more information, please visit practicalfarmers.org/field-days.

Wright Farms features mixture of diversity and fun

By WHITNEY NESSE

The Land Correspondent

Paul and Heather Wright of Wright Farms have always been ag advocates, promoters and educators and very entrepreneurial — looking for unique ways to diversify. From harvesting fish oil to processing and packaging thousands of miniature straw bales, they’ll try anything once! So with a desire to promote agriculture, offer learning opportunities for consumers, and diversify the farm, their entrepreneurial spirits led them to open a storefront right on the farm! “We needed to figure out how to visit more with consumers,” said Paul. “We do a lot of consumer education and ag promotion, so the concept of starting our own little store came around.”

The Wrights opened Wright Farms Market in April of 2022.

Both Paul and Heather were raised on farms, and after they married, farmed with Paul’s parents before the farm transition began. They purchased the farm from Paul’s parents. “Back then, it was a split between dairy and corn and soybeans,” Paul recalled. “Then we started dabbling in different things.”

Making the miniature straw bales was the first time Wrights entered the niche market. “We purchased a baler that makes miniature straw bales and started carrying them into different lawn and garden centers in the Twin Cities,” said Paul. “They went over like crazy! Now we make a few thousand of them!”

“Somewhere along the line, we got introduced to Aronia berries,” shared Paul. He said they learned about Aronia berries in 2016. The purple berries are native to the Midwest and are high in antioxidants, and it piqued their interest. “We went down to Iowa and visited with some people [who grew the berries], and pretty soon, we put in a 10-acre orchard, roughly 12,000 plants, of Aronia berries,” he said.

Wright Farms is one of Minnesota’s largest growers of Aronia berries. Paul said they recently capitalized on the opportunity to grow Aronia berries organically. “We’re now certified organic,

and that has opened up a number of markets for us,” he stated.

Recently, Wright’s purchased an Aronia berry harvester in cooperation with two other growers rather than having the berries custom harvested. “It’s worked a lot better,” he said emphatically.

According to the Wrights, the Aronia berry is not very well known and is still working to find its place in the market. However, Wrights hope to provide face-to-face educational interactions with consumers and that is where the store comes in. Wright Farms

Market offers Aronia berries and a whole host of locally grown and produced products for consumers to choose from.

Wright Farms Market offers locally grown and produced products such as beef, ice cream, pizza, candles, honey, soaps, coffee, and more. “We promote our beef, and the store provides us with the chance to sell smaller portions,” Paul said. “Last year, we decided to try popcorn!” added Heather. She said the popcorn, Aronia berries and beef are all grown by Wright Farms. “We’re really trying to maintain the local piece as much as possible,” said Paul.

“This has been quite a learning event, and the whole family has been involved in it,” Paul said. The Wrights have four young adult children who actively participate in all of the endeavors.

“Whether it’s in the store, the barn, or the tractor, everyone is able to diversify and do what we have to do,” Paul explained. “Fortunately, they all live close by and everybody pitches in. The kids were all raised helping in the barn, so whether it’s milking, feeding, or driving skid steer, it’s pretty easy to find somebody to switch in. At this point, everyone is still having fun with [the farm], so we’re just going to go with it!”

Diversity is the name of the game for Wright Farms. In addition to raising beef, Aronia berries, and making miniature straw bales, Wright’s milk 45 cows and have the ability, with the help of a “Bale Baron,” to make small square bales of hay and straw for hobby farmers and horse farms. “That has helped with the diversification of our crop acres,”

Paul noted. “Last year, we had about 120 acres of hybrid rye, which generates an amazing amount of straw, and we’re able to sell every bit of it. And the soil quality that is left behind is amazing. So it’s a benefit all the way around.”

Opening the storefront has come with challenges, agreed Paul and Heather. “There are a lot of regulations,” said Paul. “We opened a couple of months after our target, just getting through all of the [regulatory processes]. Really, we’re pretty basic here because we don’t package anything,” he added.

Photos submitted Left to right: Cody, Allison, Heather, Paul, McKenna and Breanna Wright.

The Wrights’ little shop contains a wide variety of locally owned and produced products.

No strings attached: Liberty training has international following

By PAUL MALCHOW

The Land Managing Editor

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. — Like a marionette and puppet, practitioners of Liberty horse training put their animals through a variety of actions: leaping, trotting, even lying down. But there are no strings attached.

At the Minnesota Horse Expo on April 29, Amanda Sommer spoke on aspects of the training and competitions centered around it.

To the uninformed (me), Liberty training seemed like teaching a dog tricks. A handler directs his or her horse to move in certain patterns, change its gait, even jump over objects — all without touching the horse or using tack of any sort. Sommer explained Liberty training goes much deeper than that.

Carolyn Resnick developed the Resnick Method of Horsemanship over 40 years ago and is based on her expertise and observation of wild horses. Resnick realized she could communicate with horses based on a language that was natural to them — how horses communicate with each other.

and a dependable performance under saddle. The goal is to teach the horse to walk next to the trainer, shoulder to shoulder. The horse should not stomp off ahead, lag behind or veer off sideways.

Once you and your horse can walk smoothly as a pair, it is time to start walk-to-halt and halt-to-walk transitions. The trainer will use exaggerated versions of body language and verbal cues to get the horse to start and stop. Over time, these body movements can be more and more subtle — almost undecipherable to the untrained eye.

trainers, and competitors everywhere. There are 20 ILHA clubs in the United States along with a club in Canada and Australia.

Sommer is a member of the North Central Liberty Horse Club headquartered in Fredonia, Wis. The Club will host three live shows in 2023 providing opportunities for Liberty devotees of all levels — from the basic beginner to seasoned veterans who can work with multiple horses at one time.

“We’re not super competitive,” Sommers said. “The whole idea is working and bonding with your horse. It’s hard getting a horse comfortable in strange surroundings and I think Liberty helps the animals be more relaxed.”

Contest participants are required to wear a long sleeve collar shirt with pants and safe shoes. Helmets are

required for riding youth under 18 years of age. Competitors have up to four minutes to complete their pattern.

“If the horse leaves the pattern, it’s not disqualified,” explained Sommer, “but three strikes and you’re out.”

“Callers” can call patterns to the competitor, but cannot coach. “Handlers can talk as much as they want,” Sommer said, “and you can reward by petting. Treats or food are not allowed.”

Sommer herself doesn’t use treats as a reward to the horse. “Many people do, but I personally don’t,” she said. “I feel the horses are rewarded by being with you and the exercise. Horses like to play.”

The Liberty “season” culminates in October at the ILHA Liberty Festival and Championship in Louisville, Kty. Sommer has attended a couple of times but such a trip involves a lot of time, hay and effort and she’s unsure about making the trip this year.

With the Covid pandemic, the ILHA began staging virtual competitions as well. Videos must be shot over the contest’s three-day period.

The North Central Liberty Horse Club has members in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa. Sommer said part of the reason she was at the Expo was to get a club started in Minnesota. “There are a lot of horse enthusiasts around here and they could be better served if their club wasn’t way down in Wisconsin.”

The ILHA’s website is www.libertyhorseassociation.com . The North Central Liberty Club also has a website at www. northcentrallhc.com . Sommer can be reached via email at northcentralLHC@gmail.com v

From this communication she created The Waterhole Rituals — method of training horses “at liberty.” Training did not involve close confinement or even the use of reins or halters. In the 1970’s, Resnick originated the term “Liberty Training.”

Liberty training is designed to bring a horse a sense of freedom and safety which will increase the horse’s desire to interact and will create a deeper bond

As horses and owners become more comfortable with each other, the horse can develop more skills over time. This includes walking in simple patterns; having the horse kneel, lie down or stand on its hind legs; riding the horse bareback and bridleless; and having the horse maneuver obstacles. These skills are put on display at a number of ILHA shows and contests.

The International Liberty Horse Association (ILHA) is dedicated to promoting the discipline of Liberty training and celebrating Liberty horses,

Photos by Paul Malchow

In Liberty training, horses take their cues from their handler - picking up on the most subtle movements to direct what the horse is expected to do.

Amanda Sommer guides the North Central Liberty Horse Club along with hosting and competing in ILHC events.

Thousands saddle up at the Minnesota Horse Expo

Presenter Michelle Jerry (foreground) gave tips and lessons on exercises horseowners can do to have a more relaxed and confident animal. In this photo, two horses are reclining while a rider guides her horse around them. Jerry said the two horses pay little mind to the rider in a situation they would normally find unsettling.

ON THE COVER:

Steady rains didn’t deter the crowd from attending the Minnesota Horse Expo which took place April 27-29 at the State fairgrounds. Horses and owners alike seemed to enjoy the opportunity to show off.

Horses of all breeds, shapes and sizes have the opportunity to show their stuff at the Minnesota Horse Expo. This big fellow (above) was right at home in one of the show’s exhibit areas. Below, the miniature horses were a crowd favorite during the Expo’s “Parade of Breeds.”

Protect horses by managing weeds in dry lots

It is not uncommon for a few hardy weeds to grow in dry lots even if horses spend most of their time housed there. Often horses will prefer to nibble fresh growth including weeds — despite having free access to hay. While it may seem obvious to remove or control any harmful or poisonous plants from dry lots, what about nonpoisonous plants?

Nonpoisonous weeds commonly found in dry lots such as plantain, ragweed, and prostrate knotweed can be palatable to horses — especially those on a restricted diet — due to their moderate nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) and crude protein content. However, these weeds can vary greatly (NSC ranging from 9 to 30 percent).

Due to the potential for high levels of NSC, you should manage weeds in your dry lot — especially if any of your horses are prone to laminitis, are overweight, or have been advised to be on a restricted NSC diet.

Controlling weeds in your dry lot could include hand pulling, mowing, or dragging. If using an herbicide, be sure to select one that is labeled for use on pastures. Always follow herbicide label instructions and grazing restrictions. You will need to temporarily house your horses away from herbicide-treated plants.

This article was submitted by Hannah Lochner, University of Minnesota Extension.

Photos by Paul Malchow

The Minnesota Horse Expo featured numerous exhibits and vendors showcasing just about everything a horse owner could possibly want ... and then some.

Bayerls are into transporting animals for the long haul

By WHITNEY NESSE The Land Correspondent

Conversation comes easy for husband and wife duo Jeff and Lisa Bayerl of Big J’s Transport in Lester Prairie, Minn. Not long into a visit, it’s easy to pick up their enthusiasm for the livestock industry. That enthusiastic passion drove them into the livestock trucking industry 24 years ago. “We knew there wasn’t room for me on the family farm,” said Jeff. “We were 18 years old. So one night, we went on a walk and talked about what we wanted to do. I told Lisa that I enjoyed truck driving and I enjoy cattle. I love working with cattle, so we decided to start up a trucking company.”

Lisa said there was never the question of who would be the truck driver; they both jumped into the business together.

The couple’s very first trailer could haul 12 head of cattle. “It was an old, steel gooseneck. We bought it from a pig farmer,” said Jeff. “We had it sandblasted and I did some welding and cleaning on it, and we painted it red to match the red truck we bought.”

“Our first customer was Rosen Livestock out of South St. Paul. He gave us a chance! So when the buying day was over, we would go into the Hutchinson station, pull all the fat cows out of there, and go to Dakota Premium down in South St. Paul. That’s how we got our feet wet,” Lisa added.

Jeff also started going farm to farm, dropping off business cards to start building a customer base. “It took a long time,” he laughed.

Jeff and Lisa worked various jobs in the earliest years of the trucking business. “[In the beginning] we both worked full time during the day; and at night we would haul to South St. Paul,” said Lisa.

Lisa chuckled as she recalled learning how to back the truck and trailer down Jeff’s parents’ driveway, “[Jeff] and his dad sat down and watched me back up, which was extremely embarrassing; but I got it! It took a while, but I got it!”

For Jeff, the driving, hauling and backing came easier since he had grown up doing things like that on his parents’ dairy farm.

In the early years, Lisa was a forerunner for females in the trucking business. “There weren’t many lady bull haulers,” she recalled. Lisa said it took a little time, but she earned the respect of the people she worked with by doing her job and doing it well. “I didn’t have anything to prove,” Lisa said, “I just wanted to do my job.”

When Bayerl’s began having a family of their own, their kids rode along as passengers. Having two children, one could go with each parent. Lisa said they would pack book bags for the kids with coloring supplies and maybe a snack or two, and the kids grew up in the trucks. “We never wanted anyone else to raise our kids,” said Jeff, “so we did what we had to.” Today, both children, Grace and Easton, raise their own livestock.

When asked what was the strangest thing they’ve ever hauled, Lisa immediately answered, “Fainting goats!” She went on, saying, “It was a mess — absolutely a mess! I was hauling alone, and the customer had 30 or 40 fainting goats. By the time we got them to the trailer, they were falling or seizing up! It was too many fainting goats at one time!”

They’ve also hauled llamas, beefalo, horses and longhorns.

Jeff’s favorite part of the job has always been the people. “Meeting people and seeing all of the different ways people run their farms is always fun!” he said.

Lisa’s favorite part of the business is similar. She said she loves that they have watched kids grow up to be successors of a family farm, and those kids are now Jeff and Lisa’s customers. “Watching the next generation start to farm and want to farm and be progressive is almost like a phenomenon. To watch this generation apply what they’ve learned and build and improve and be progressive is the coolest thing ever!” Lisa added.

Jeff and Lisa have had front-row seats seeing the quality of the animals improve over the years. They agree that with the increase of producers prioritizing proper nutrition, the quality of animals has skyrocketed. They said cattle in particular have increased in size, quality and efficiency. And seeing their custom-

Program helps diversify crop rotations

Eligible Minnesota growers can now receive financial and technical assistance when they add one of the following crops to their rotations: Kernza perennial grain, winter camelina, winter barley or hybrid winter rye. All of these crops grow over the winter, providing the soil health and water quality benefits of cover crops while also producing grain and/or forage that can be harvested and sold.

Growers who take part in the Forever Green EECO Implementation Program are eligible for conservation (or “ecosystem service”) payments ranging from $20-50 per acre, as well as a risk management pay-

ment that will cover up to half the cost of production in the event of crop or market failure. In addition, enrolled growers are eligible for technical assistance from a field agronomist and community partners.

Protecting water quality is a major goal of this program. Growers who are located in Drinking Water Supply Management Areas are eligible for a 25 percent premium on their ecosystem service payment.

Learn more and enroll at: z.umn.edu/EnrollEECO

This article was submitted by the Forever Green Initiative. v

ers sell high in competitive markets has been a bonus. The Bayerls said they love seeing their customers succeed.

The shrinking animal production population in their neck of the woods has caused Big J’s Transport to service a larger area. Now they regularly travel within a 100-mile radius. Occasionally they will have longer hauls, some of which have taken them as far as Nebraska or Green Bay. “We used to haul a lot of dairy,” said Jeff. However, the dairy population has decreased significantly in their area. But on the bright side, Jeff said many of those former dairymen are now raising feeder cattle which he has the opportunity to haul.

“Our customers aren’t customers; they’re family,” Lisa admitted. “We see them uptown and in the grocery store. We know their stories. So when we would haul out a dairy [who was selling their herd], it was like a part of our heart died with that.”

“We’ve been through so many [herd dispersals] where the family just sits there and cries. It’s hard on everybody because it’s the end of an era,” Jeff emphasized. “Especially the dairy guys. They’ve been in it so long and can’t keep fighting the battle. I understand that.”

“We all start off so rough and tumble,” said Lisa, “it’s really an emotional thing to watch people retire who are essentially family.”

Rising fuel, insurance and maintenance costs — along with fewer animals, have caused the Bayerls to shift gears slightly. Lisa, who once did her fair share of hauling, now only hauls on occasion. She is now focusing more on her budding apparel business: Lady J Embroidery and Vinyl Apparel.

Jeff, on the other hand, plans to continue hauling livestock for the foreseeable future. “He’s the cow whisperer,” said Lisa.

“It took a lot to get here, and it’ll take a lot to keep going,” said Jeff.

“But we’re living a fun, fun dream and wouldn’t have it any other way,” added Lisa.

Big J’s Transport can be contacted via email at bigjstransport@gmail.com, or by calling at (612) 5324886. v

Showing Palominos is as challenging as you want it to be

By RICHARD SIEMERS The Land Correspondent

Sleepy Eye crop farmer David Remus is in the midst of his year as president of the Palomino Horse Breeders of America, Inc. (PHBA), a national organization headquartered in Tulsa, Okla. This year is the 40th anniversary of PHBA’s World Championship Show which runs July 4-15 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Ill.

“Palomino” is often thought of as a breed of horse; but technically, it is a color to which a horses of many breeds can be bred. There are qualifications to be met to be a true Palomino, but generally speaking it refers to a cream, yellow, or gold coat with a white mane and tail.

Remus is a complete horseman. He breeds, raises, trains and shows horses, and does his own shoeing. His wife, Wendy, joins him in showing. He also gives lessons and trains horses for others. To go along with the crop farming, the couple operates Remus Quarter Horses on their farm.

While Remus is president of PHBA, the Palomino color is not his highest breeding priority.

“We consider ourselves breeders, but when we breed we don’t necessarily

breed for color,” Remus said. “We breed for conformation, good lines. Color is an option for us. It just so happens that we try to choose those crosses that can produce a yellow horse, or Palomino. It doesn’t always happen.”

If color is your primary interest, he said, you are guaranteed a Palomino by breeding a cremello stallion to a red or sorrel mare.

While Remus is enthusiastic about his breeding program, what he really likes to promote is the Palomino Horse Breeders of America. He and his family were showing Palominos back in the 1980s, but going to only a few shows. In 2012 he and Wendy got involved in PHBA. The organization has over 80 years of history.

PHBA incorporated back in 1941. That year they also registered their first Palomino. While regional Palomino shows were being held, the first PBHA World Show was held in Indianapolis, Ind. in 1983.

In 1960 they added a Youth Class for 18-yearsold and younger. In 1981 PHBA expanded by adding

an Amateur class for non-professionals who had aged out of the Youth class but were not ready to compete in the Open class — though they have that option, if they choose.

The Quarter Horse, which Remus breeds, is the most common breed on the PHBA registry, but they aren’t the only breed.

“We accept horses from over 20 breeds that can produce the Palomino color,” Remus said. These horses are usually already registered with their breed association.

You might say that kind of inclusiveness is a reason why he likes PHBA. With its Youth and Amateur divisions, it is obviously family friendly and inviting to all levels of experience. It’s also horse friendly.

Of course, there are detailed rules for a horse to receive registration papers as a Palomino from PHBA. But it is also welcoming to horses that don’t qualify for that registry.

“A non-Palomino colored horse is eligible for the Palomino Bred registry,” Remus said. “The requirement is that they have one registered Palomino parent. If they come out of a mare or stallion that is Palomino in color and registered with our association, they are eligible to get Palomino Bred papers.”

“We also register Grade horses that are Palomino in color,” he said. “If they meet all of our qualifications as a Palomino color-wise, then we’re able to issue papers on those horses, too.”

Both Palomino-bred and Grade horses participate in shows. Still, Palomino is the organization’s purpose.

A Palomino can range from a creamy yellow to a deep gold, but nothing beats the Palomino horse that meets the gold standard — literally. In fact, the World Show has one class that is judged based on color.

“We’re looking for the color of a newly minted gold coin,” Remus said. “Some of our judges wear a gold ring, others

carry a gold coin in their pocket, and they compare that with the color of the horse. They’re looking for that one that fits the newly-minted gold coin color. That’s the top of the line for color.”

David met his wife, Wendy, while a student at University of MinnesotaWaseca. He was in an ag production program while she was in the horse program. But he shared her interest in horses, having had them all his life and being on the rodeo team. When David and Wendy had a young family, they were part of a saddle club and showed at some Minnesota horse shows.

“We enjoyed that, but we wanted to progress a little bit; so we stepped into the breed shows and that put us to where we are today.”

The Remuses earn points through their participation in PHBA shows. Through the years Dave and Wendy have had many top 5 and top 10 finishes in multiple classes at World Shows.

“All those add value to a horse in the horse industry, because they’re out there and being proven as show horses,” he said.

The ultimate is to produce a world champion. The Remuses have accomplished that twice with a horse named Power In The Details. Wendy and Power In The Details as a three-yearold, won World Champion Amateur Select Western Horsemanship PHBA/ NSBA. The next year, as a four-yearold, Wendy and Power In The Details were World Champion Amateur Select

Photo by Richard Siemers

Dave Remus poses with one of his mares, Power to Remember, and her foal, Emily.

Photo submitted

David and his wife Wendy won the World Champion Amateur Select Western Horsemanship PHBA/NSBA in 2018 with the horse Power In The Details. The next year the same horse was World Champion Amateur Select Hunter Under Saddle PHBA/NSBA.

Photo submitted

Horse owners win points through participation in PHBA shows. Remus said he takes his breeding seriously, but also likes to have fun.

Reporters seeing more smoke than rain

Corey Hanson

Gary, Minn.

June 15

“It’s been busy around here,” Corey Hanson reported on June 15. He finished baling his first crop of hay on that Thursday and has been spraying crops. He’s currently working on soybeans, and has also been sidedressing corn with anhydrous ammonia. He prefers to split up the application due to his sandy loam soil’s inability to hold nitrogen as well.

2023 From The Fields

David Tauer Hanska, Minn.

June 15

Overall, the crops are doing pretty well on David Tauer’s dairy farm. Tauer reported receiving .6 inches of rain on June 8 and another 1.8 inches on June 10. He stated the water holes that were previously black are now green with corn.

Though Tauer doesn’t think this corn is as consisHanson reported the farm hasn’t caught a shower in a bit. Though short on moisture, the crops are doing pretty well. He has noticed the wheat which was planted at the beginning of May around the area doesn’t seem to be faring as well compared to what was planted 10 days later. Hanson’s corn is currently between boot top and knee high. He reports the beans are doing alright, but small — about the height of “a good coffee cup.”

Farmers throughout the state are experiencing smoke from the Canadian wildfires. On the haziest of days, Hanson reported not being able to make out trees on his property.

With warmer temps than usual for this time of year, Hanson has noticed he’s dealing with conditions now that he typically doesn’t see until a bit later in the summer. He reported the pastures are currently yellow-brown, on their way to turning brown. The cattle are luckily able to access grass in more woody areas.

In Hanson’s region, it’s county fair season. Norman County’s fair is June 21-24, immediately followed by neighboring Mahnomen, and next, Polk County. Hanson is looking forward to bringing his granddaughter, visiting the exhibits, seeing former classmates, and having the obligatory corn dog and cotton candy. v

tent as in years past, he believes it will still be a good crop. The earlier planted corn is currently waist-high as of June 15. The replanted corn has good color, and is at v4 or v5 growth stage. On June 13, Tauer completed the last of his planting with a final 50 acres of corn planted over a field of alfalfa.

Tauer recently finished his first cutting of hay. He baled 90 acres, averaging a good four bales per acre. He made haylage on the remaining 40 acres. He had to spray for worms, which he stated is standard after the first alfalfa crop. He will determine if it will be needed after the second crop.

The state of the oats is a little disappointing to Tauer. They are knee-high, about half the size of what they should be and starting to head out. “The oats like it cooler and wetter,” he said, and reported the recent rainfall in their field location has been spotty and only totaled half an inch.

By print, Tauer and his family will be wrapping up a vacation up north. “Our herdsperson will keep things in check,” Tauer stated of his time away from the farm, and remarked it’s reassuring to have a good labor force. v

Jim Hagen

Lake Mills, Iowa

June 15

Nick Pooch Farwell, Minn.

June 16

While it’s continued to be windy in Farwell, Minn., the weather cooperated enough for Nick Pooch to finish spraying corn. As of June 16, he is about halfway done with spraying beans.

Pooch stated for as dry as it’s been, the crops look good. His area received rainfall on June 6, 7 and 9 totaling 1.6 inches; but stated they’re “not out of drought by any means.”

Baling alfalfa was completed on June 12, and Pooch reported yields are

See POOCH, pg. 14

Hagen has been pretty busy working on a few different projects. He finished sidedressing nitrogen on June 14. His beans are now all sprayed, and he hauled in the last of his previous corn crop.

The May 27 soybean replant was successful. “They look good. They’re all up,” Hagen stated. He noted he could have planted more, as he’s noticed some areas are a little thin, but said he’ll take what they have. The rest of his beans are looking okay, though not making a whole lot of progress due to lack of moisture. He is hoping for rain soon.

Smoke from the Canadian wildfires has reached Lake Mills, Iowa. On June 15, Jim Hagen reported having a few days of hazy conditions. The farm hasn’t received any rainfall since May 10. about 20 percent less than normal. He recently sprayed for a bad case of alfalfa weevil. He is about

Compiled by Laura Cole, The Land Staff Writer

Farmers on the lookout as armyworm reports coming in

As of writing this article, many parts of the state, are in abnormally dry or moderate drought conditions. Given the current stage and conditions of crops, farmers should be vigilant of armyworms.

Before any application of insecticide for armyworms, it is important to scout for economic thresholds. (The economic threshold for small grains is four to five larvae per square foot and/or once larvae begin to clip grain heads. The threshold in whorl stage corn is 25 percent of plants with two larvae per plant or 75 percent of plants with one larvae per plant.) If economic thresholds are not being reached, then the population is likely being kept in check by natural enemies. If that is the case you should hold off on spraying, but continue scouting.

Lush grasses are the preferred sites for egg laying. These can include stands of small

grains, cover crops, and grass field borders.

Armyworms seldom feed on broadleaf crops. The risk is increased in fields where a live grass cover crop or grass weeds are present at the time when moths are laying eggs.

Since true armyworms cannot overwinter in Minnesota, they migrate into the state each spring.

The larvae are active at night or on cloudy days. Scout using a sweep net in grassy borders and in small grains. Also, shake the small grain canopy and search the ground for larvae.

Cultural control can be effective for armyworm management. Maintaining good, early season weed control and avoiding late termination of grass cover crops can reduce the attractiveness of fields to egg-laying moths.

Wrights look at expanding store

WRIGHT FARMS, from pg. 8

Of the products grown by the Wrights, all are sent out to be processed and packaged by third parties who are inspected by the Department of Agriculture and Department of Health. “We bring 10,000 pounds of berries to be processed and packaged in Iowa and brought back here [to the store] for sale,” said Paul.

When asked about plans for the future, both Paul and Heather laughed. “We haven’t had time to think about it!” said Heather.

“In order to survive as a smaller operation, you need to find a way to get to the consumer as much as possible,” said Paul. “Taking everything we produce and trying to find a way to get more value-added

takes some extra work, but the returns are there. Down to road, we may look at a bigger setting for [the store] once we grow into it and see if it’s going to work for us.”

Undoubtedly, it’s easy to see the folks of Wright Farms are still having fun. From celebrating holidays to promoting FFA and 4-H programs, to their ever-changing bale sculptures, the Wrights always showcase some fun. “People are always driving by and looking to see what we’ll have next,” said Paul.

Wright Farms and Wright Farms Market can be found online at www.wrightfamilyfarmsmn.com and on Facebook. Their store is located at 15215 County Rd 7, Hutchinson, Minn.

PHBA ‘a great group of people’

Hunter Under Saddle PHBA/NSBA. (NSBA is National Snaffle Bit Association, of which they are also members.)

Dave Remus has always enjoyed horses — riding, training, showing, breeding. He takes his breeding seriously, but also likes to have fun. Being members of Palomino Horse Breeders of America makes both possible.

“We want to produce a quality horse, and yet be able to go and have some fun,” Remus said, “which is

what PHBA does. It’s a great group of people.”

If you have questions about his breeding or training, or PHBA, you can contact David Remus by email at remusqh@hotmail.com or by phone at (507) 2474466. The PHBA website is palominohba.com.

The regional organizations: Minnesota Palomino Horse Exhibitors are at mnpalominohorse.com or on Facebook. Iowa Palomino Exhibitors Association has contact information at palominohba.com/affiliates or its Facebook page.

Saw fly larva, wheat head armyworm, and cut worms are all look-a-likes to true armyworms. While scouting ensure that you know the key identifying factors of armyworms. If you are unsure if what you found is a true armyworm, submit photos to your local Extension office.

Additional information about armyworms can be found at www.extension.umn.edu by searching the page for armyworms.

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

From The Fields

POOCH, from pg. 13

two-thirds done with grass hay, and said those yields are 30 percent less than normal.

Due to the dry conditions, Pooch was able to complete work in all of the low ground areas. He stated that’s only happened maybe two or three times in his life. Typically it’s too wet, and he’d risk getting stuck.

The last of Pooch’s backgrounding calves were recently sold which warranted an overnight stay in Sioux Falls, S.D. for the event. Pooch’s kids were excited to stay in a hotel and Pooch was happy with how well the calves sold. “The market is really high right now.”

The Pooch family is looking forward to attending the Crystal Springs Rodeo in Clear Lake, S.D., which is where Nick and his wife, Kris, originally met. And maybe most exciting of all for the couple’s boys is the addition of a puppy! Bandit is an Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler mix. With two veteran dogs at home to show him the ropes, “It’s a good time to raise a puppy,” Pooch stated. v

HAGEN, from pg. 13

Coming up, Hagen will be mowing ditches and waterways, as well as determining if spot spraying will be needed for any escapes on the low ground. He’s also watching for any signs of insects and funguses. Tar spot made its appearance at the farm late last year.

Gordon, Hagen’s father, is starting a tiling project on 80 acres of newly-acquired land. Hagen reported they’ll begin by putting the mains in and will tile the rest in the fall. There are also woods and fence lines to clean out. “That’ll be a job.”

Hagen and his wife, Christy, recently attended Clear Lake, Iowa’s Thursdays on Main — a local event which includes live music and food vendors. “Enjoy the summer,” Hagen recommended. “It goes too quick.” v

Grain Outlook Drought is fueling wide market swings

The following marketing analysis is for the week ending June 16.

CORN — What looks like a full-blown weather market took place this week as rain events were scattered; and, in most cases, not enough to solve dry conditions. The weekly drought monitor released on June 15 showed 57 percent of the U.S. corn areas under some level of drought. This was an increase of 12 percent week-on-week. Sixty-five percent of Illinois was experiencing drought. Conditions as of June 11 declined 3 percent to 61 percent good/excellent with Illinois conditions down 21 percent in the last two weeks.

Other events popping up were viewed as background noise. December corn in 2012 and 2013 have both been compared to this year’s December corn contract.

All three years have followed the same basic pattern until now. In 2012, the December corn began to soar on June 18 and topped out on Aug. 10. The 2013 December corn contract began to slide lower on June 19 into harvest with a few rallies along the way. Where does that leave the 2023 December contract? Only Mother Nature knows for sure, so buckle up boys; it’s going to be a bumpy ride!

Farmer selling picked up this week with the rally back to prices not seen since April. However, nearby basis levels have been slumping throughout the week as buyers moved bids to the September or December contract. The Buenos Aires Grain Exchange estimated Argentina’s corn harvest at 37 percent complete vs. 49 percent on average. They left their crop estimate at 36 million metric tons compared to the U.S. Department of Agriculture at 35 mmt. Conab updated Brazil’s corn production to 125.7 mmt vs. 125.5 mmt previously. USDA is at 130 mmt.

The weekly export sales report was in the middle of expectations for old crop at 10.8 million bushels. Total export commitments are 15 billion bushels and 35 percent behind last year. We need 12.4 million bushels of sales to hit the USDA target of 1.725 billion bushels. This number was the highest of the last seven weeks; but rather than celebrate the figure, it shows how poor the last two months› sales have been. New crop sales were a dismal 800,000 bushels — bringing commitments to 117.3 million bushels vs. 232.2 million bushels.

Cash Grain Markets

corn market were also at play in the soy complex. Adding to the positive tone in soybeans was the impact of the rally in soyoil. July soyoil has rallied over a dime in the last two weeks. It’s believed that a record amount of soyoil was used in May for biofuels. The Environmental Protection Agency is scheduled to release the biofuel mandates for 2023, 2024 and 2025 on June 21.

The May National Oilseed Processors Association Soybean crush report was friendly with a higher crush number than expected and a lower stocks figure. The crush was a record for May at 177.9 million bushels. Soyoil stocks were 1.872 billion pounds vs. the 1.942 billion pounds estimated.

The weekly ethanol report was mixed with lower production but also lower ethanol stocks. Ethanol production was down 18,000 barrels per day at 1 million bpd. Stocks were 700,000 barrels lower at 22.2 million barrels. Net margins were down 3 cents at 43 cents per gallon. Gasoline demand at 9.2 million bpd is up 2.4 percent from last year on a four-week average.

The Federal Reserve did as expected when they left interest rates unchanged this month. They did suggest they see two more small rate increases this year. China lowered its one-year rate by 10 basis points for the first cut since August 2022.

Outlook: Weather is the driver and the current outlook is dry. The Juneteenth holiday means the Monday night open could be wild. Check your risk tolerance and next selling points to be prepared for wild, sharp swings. History tells us that December corn usually takes out the January high, which was $6.11 per bushel this year. Just a couple of weeks ago, it looked like this year would be the outlier. Now that doesn’t seem like an impossibility. We came with 13 cents of that level this week.

Falling in love with positions isn’t a luxury we have. If the situation changes, you have to be prepared to make adjustments. There are tools available to help manage the risk. Pick the one that works best for your scenario — be it using open hedge orders, sell stops, options, flat pricing, etc. Good luck.

For the week, July corn surged 36 cents higher to $6.40.25, September was the leading gainer with 69.5 cents to $5.94, and December rallied 67 cents to $5.97.5 per bushel. Corn had a strong technical close this week with the September and December contracts closing above their 200-day moving averages.

SOYBEANS — The same factors working in the

Argentina’s soybean crop continues to shrink with the Rosario Grain Exchange cutting the production estimate by 1 mmt to 20.5 mmt vs. the USDA at 25 mmt. Their new estimate is 58 percent lower than where they started at the beginning of the growing season. This could be an opportunity for additional U.S. soyoil and meal exports. Conab updated Brazil’s soybean crop by .9 mmt to 155.7 mmt vs. USDA at 156 mmt.

With an increase of 12 percent to 51 percent of the U.S. area under drought stress, according to the weekly Drought Monitor, soybeans will respond to current weather forecasts. As of June 11, soybean conditions dropped 3 percent to 59 percent good/ excellent. Soybean planting was 96 percent complete, right on the average.

Weekly export sales were decent for old crop and poor for new crop. Old crop sales were 17.6 million bushels and lag last year by 14 percent. Total export commitments are nearly 1.9 billion bushels. We need 3.5 million bushels of sales per week to hit the USDA’s 2 billion bushel forecast. This was the largest old crop sales report in 13 weeks. New crop sales were 1.8 million bushels — bringing commitments to 116.3 million bushels compared to 481.5 million bushels last year by this date.

Outlook: Who wants to be the first to step in front of a moving train? With Mother Nature running the show, sellers mostly kept to the sidelines this week as managed money added to their length. Basis levels were under pressure for old crop throughout the Midwest. Weather, weather, weather will drive the market; but have some kind of plan in place if Mother Nature decides to grace us with rain.

For the week, July soybeans jumped 80 cents to $14.66.5, August surged $1.11.5 to $14.07.5, and November led with a $1.39 rally to $13.42.25 per bushel. July meal soared $19.20 to $416.40 and July soyoil was 5.1 cents higher at $.5969.

Weekly price changes in July wheat for the week ended June 12: Chicago wheat rallied 57.75 cents to $6.88, Kansas City was 44.25 cents higher at $8.42, and Minneapolis was up 41.75 cents at $8.53.5 per bushel. v

High beef prices, low milk prices speeding herd culling

This column was written for the marketing week ending June 16.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture lowered its 2023 milk production estimate in the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimate report, citing slower growth in milk-per-cow than previously expected. Milk output for 2024 was unchanged.

2023 production and marketings were estimated at 228.4 and 227.4 billion pounds respectively, down 200 million pounds on both from a month ago. If realized, both would be up 1.9 billion pounds or 0.8 percent from 2022.

MIELKE MARKET WEEKLY

By Lee Mielke

The 2023 Class IV average was $18.35, up a nickel from last month’s estimate, and compares to $24.47 in 2022 and $16.09 in 2021. The 2024 Class IV average was projected at $17.45, up a dime from last month’s estimate.

MARKETING

2024 production and marketings remained at 230.8 and 229.8 billion pounds respectively. If realized, 2024 production and marketings would be up 2.4 billion pounds or 1.1 percent from 2023.

The 2023 cheese price is expected to average $1.73 per pound, down 9.5 cents from last month’s estimate, and compares to the 2022 average of $2.1122 and $1.6755 in 2021. The 2024 average is estimated at $1.775, 4.5 cents lower than last month’s projection.

Butter is expected to average $2.4350 per pound in 2023, up 50 cents from a month ago, and compares to $2.8665 in 2022 and $1.7325 in 2021. The 2024 average was estimated at $2.335.

Nonfat dry milk is projected to average $1.19 per pound, up 50 cents from last month’s estimate, and compares to $1.6851 in 2022 and $1.2693 in 2021. The 2024 average was projected at $1.13, up a penny from a month ago.

The dry whey average was projected at 37 cents per pound, down 2.5 cents from last month’s estimate, and compares to 60.57 cents in 2022 and 57.44 cents in 2021. The 2024 average was put at 36 cents per pound.

The 2023 Class III milk price average estimate was lowered to $16.70 per hundredweight, down $1.05 from last month’s projection and compares to $21.96 in 2022 and $17.08 in 2021. The 2023 average was projected at $17, down 50 cents from a month ago.

The U.S. corn outlook is little changed from last month with increases to both beginning and ending stocks. Beginning stocks were up 35 million bushels, reflecting a forecast decline in exports that is partly offset by lower imports. Exports were lowered 50 million bushels and ending stocks were raised 35 million bushels. The season-average farm price was unchanged at $4.80.

Soybean supply and use projections included higher beginning and ending stocks. Higher beginning stocks reflect reduced exports, down 15 million bushels to 2 billion. With increased supplies and no use changes, soybean ending stocks were projected at 350 million bushels, up 15 million. The soybean price was forecast at $12.10 per bushel, unchanged from last month.

n

The latest Crop Progress report shows 93 percent of U.S. corn has emerged, as of the week ending June 11, up from 85 percent the previous week, 6 percent ahead of a year ago as well as the five-year average. Sixty-one percent was rated good to excellent, down from 72 percent a year ago, as dry conditions prevail over a large section of the crop.

Soybeans were 96 percent planted, up from 91 percent the week before, 9 percent ahead of a year ago, and 10 percent ahead of the five-year average. Eighty-six percent are emerged, up from 74 percent the previous week, 18 percent ahead of a year ago, and 16 percent ahead of the five-year average. Fifty-

nine percent of the crop was rated good to excellent, up from 62 percent the previous week, but 11 percent behind a year ago.

The week ending June 3 saw 51,800 dairy cows go to slaughter, down 5,200 head from the previous week but 3,000 head or 6.1 percent more than a year ago. Year-to-date, 1.325 million have been culled, up 65,100 head or 4.9 percent from a year ago.

The June 15 Daily Dairy Report says lofty cattle prices have “boosted dairy cull cow checks to multiyear highs. The combination of low milk prices and high beef prices may help to accelerate contraction in the dairy herd, speeding the transition to lower milk production and higher dairy product prices.”

StoneX wrote in its June 16 “Early Morning Update” that if slaughter numbers continue like they are, they could finish the year at near record levels. “Data available from the USDA goes back to 2017; and since then, the record for slaughter was in 2019 with an average weekly slaughter of 61,760 head. Our current average weekly slaughter is 60,913 with an expectation that volume should increase on a week-to-week basis moving forward.”

Checking dairy demand, April total cheese usage came in at 1.19 billion pounds, up 0.6 percent, thanks to a 1.6 percent increase domestically outweighing an 11.7 percent drop in exports. Those exports were likely booked in late 2022 or early 2023, explains HighGround Dairy, “when U.S. prices carried a premium to the rest of the world.”

Butter utilization hit 187.5 million pounds, up 7.9 percent and up 4.1 percent year-to-date. It topped prior-year levels for the third consecutive month, according to dairy economist Betty Berning in the June 19 “Dairy Radio Now” broadcast. She said the

See MIELKE, pg. 17

Entries open for 2023

World Forage Analysis Superbowl

MADISON, Wis. — Entries are being accepted for the World Forage Analysis Superbowl, which is open to all forage producers across North America. The 2023 contest, held in conjunction with World Dairy Expo, is set to award over $26,000 in cash prizes.

The deadline to submit corn silage samples is July 12, while all other entries must be submitted by Aug. 24. The $35 entry fee provides entry into the contest along with a detailed sample analysis sent to entrants after judging is complete.

The World Forage Analysis Superbowl is comprised of eight divisions: Dairy Hay, Commercial Hay; Grass Hay, Alfalfa Haylage, Mixed/Grass Haylage, Baleage, Standard Corn Silage and Brown Midrib Corn Silage.

Samples are evaluated through lab and visual

analyses. The winning entry of each division earns a cash award of $2,500, with additional cash prizes presented to second through fifth place. A Grand Champion Forage Producer is also named in the contest and receives a check for $2,500. The Grand Champion First-Time Entrant is awarded a $2,000 cash award. Special awards also presented in the contest are the $1,000 Quality Counts Award for Hay/Haylage and the $1,000 Quality Counts Award for Corn Silage.

All award winners will be recognized at the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wis. on Oct. 4.

To learn more, visit www.foragesuperbowl.org.

This article was submitted by the World Dairy Expo.

Dairy industry added 60,000 new jobs in past two years

MIELKE, from pg. 16

gain was driven by higher domestic consumption, up 11.6 percent. Exports however were down 53.1 percent — the lowest volume since November 2020.

Berning blamed high U.S. butter prices at the end of 2022 for the drop in exports. She also pointed to higher output of American cheese — particularly cheddar — for putting the produce mix “off kilter,” adding to inventory, without the export demand for it.

Nonfat and skim milk powder demand, at 238.1 million pounds, was up 3.6 percent. Domestic usage was up 34.1 percent while exports were down 9.2 percent from a year ago. HighGround Dairy says domestic consumption was the highest since September 2020.

Admittedly, fluid milk sales continue to struggle; but overall demand for dairy continues to grow in the United States — contrary to what plant-based producers would like consumers to believe. The International Dairy Foods Association reports that, in September 2022, the USDA reported U.S. per capita dairy consumption jumped 12.4 pounds per person in 2021, continuing a 50-year growth trend that started in 1975 when USDA began tracking annual consumption.

Domestic consumption and exports also generated significant growth in the dairy industry, according to the IDFA, adding nearly 60,000 new jobs in the past two years, increasing average wages by 11 percent, and increasing its total impact on the U.S. economy by $41 billion, according to IDFA’s latest economic impact report.

IDFA’s 2023 Economic Impact Study showed the U.S. dairy industry’s economic impact totaled $793.75 billion. The report, released at the beginning of National Dairy Month, is conducted every two years.

Newly released figures indicate the U.S. dairy industry supports 3.2 million total jobs, including 1.078 million in dairy product manufacturing, up from 1.018 million in 2021, plus $49 billion in direct wages for workers, up

from $42 billion in 2021. The report shows $72 billion in federal, state and local taxes (not including sales taxes paid by consumers), up from $67.1 million in 2021, 3 percent of U.S. GDP.

“The dairy industry is growing to keep pace with intense global demand, and that means more jobs, higher wages, more tax benefits, and more economic growth for communities across the U.S.,” said Michael Dykes, IDFA president and CEO.

Unfortunately, that good news hasn’t been so good for farmers. The June 12 Daily Dairy Report points out dairies “continue to struggle as margins remain tight. In 2021, 6 percent — or 1,794 farms — called it quits; and last year, another 7 percent or 1,910 operations sold out, leaving just 27,932 farms to meet growing demand, according to USDA.”

Dairy futures offer little hope for a turnaround any time soon.

Chicago Mercantile Exchange block cheddar fell to a $1.375 per pound June 16 finish. This is the lowest CME price since May 8, 2020, down 4.75 cents on the week and 77 cents below a year ago. With the exception of a half-cent increase the week of May 15, the blocks dropped 11 weeks in a row, losing 72.5 cents in that timeframe.

The barrels closed at $1.525, 4.5 cents lower, 63.25 cents below a year ago, and 15 cents above the blocks. Thirty cars of block sold on the week and three of barrel.

Midwest weather is prolonging the flush and milk is being dumped — though Dairy Market News reports some cheese plants say spot milk offers were not as numerous this week. There are continued expectations that milk availability will slacken as late spring weather begins; but spot prices got as low as $12 under Class this week, compared to $5 to $1 under a year ago.

Cheese processing is busy. Cheese demand is active, according to a number of upper Midwestern processors, and “customers are clearly less hesitant to purchase for near-to mid-term

Please complete the form below. Sign and date, include your check and put it in the mail. I own or operate 80+ acres of Minnesota and/or Northern Iowa ag cropland, raise 25+ head of livestock or am actively involved in agribusiness. Full

High temperatures in Midwest tightening milk supply

MIELKE, from pg. 17

needs when prices are at current levels.”

Cheese demand remains steady for Western retail and food service channels. Export demand is mixed for the remainder of second quarter, ranging from steady obligations to softened, while third quarter interest is reportedly quieter. Cheese vats are running strong production with plenty of milk, says Dairy Market News

Cash butter fell to $2.3525 per pound on June 13, the lowest since April 14. It rallied the next day, slipped some on June 15, and closed June 16 at $2.365. This is up a quarter-cent on the week, but 57.5 cents below a year ago, with 10 sales on the week.

Central butter makers reported similar demand interest as the past two weeks. Retail sales are increasing but nothing out of the norm for late spring. Cream availability remains somewhat steady. Multiples are holding firm in the low to mid $1.20s from cream sources regionally, although some Midwestern plants are still taking cream from Western states, according to Dairy Market News.

Western cream multiples stayed firm and plenty of volume is available. A few butter manufacturers reported that scheduled equipment maintenance is set to start; but butter making is strong to steady.

In some parts of the region, more cream is shifting to ice cream production. Butter demand is moderate to lighter from commercial bulk buyers, while food service and retail demand is strong to steady. A few reports indicate inventories are slightly on the heavy side. Export activity is moderate to lighter, reports Dairy Market News.

Grade A nonfat dry milk slipped to $1.155 per pound on June 15, but closed the next day at $1.1575. This is down a quarter-cent on the week and 64.25 cents below a year ago, with four sales reported for the week.

Dry whey gained a half-cent on June 12, then gave back three-quarter cents on June 14, and closed June 16 at 27.5 cents per pound — unchanged on the week, but 23.25 cents below a year ago, with 31 sales reported on the week at the CME.

June 13’s Global Dairy Trade Pulse saw 2 million pounds of Fonterra whole milk powder sold out of 2.2 million pounds offered, and at $3,080 per metric ton, down $20 from the last Pulse and down $70 from the June 6 GDT.

HighGround Dairy says, “After trending above $3,100 per metric ton for the last seven weeks, C2 Regular whole milk powder dropped to the lowest price since April 18 due to persistent weak global demand. Lasting only five bidding rounds, this matched the shortest Pulse Auction on record which occurred on Feb. 14.”

Dairy Market News says milk production varies across the country as seasonally warmer temperatures come into play. The Northeast is seeing steady milk output. Midwest production tightened in the southern portion of the region, while warmer temperatures moving toward the upper Midwest is expected to impact cow comfort levels there as well. Farm level milk production in the West is mostly steady. Cooler temperatures in portions of the mountainous states have led to stronger milk output.

Looking globally, a number of observers believe the European milk production peak has passed, reports Dairy Market News, while others suggest it may linger and be slow to decline. In either case, milk volumes are significant. Manufacturing of most dairy commodities is heavy, and inventories are significant. Industry contacts report demand is lukewarm for most commodities, with the exception of cheese.

Less favorable weather may slow milk production from northeast Germany into Poland and the Baltic States. The EU commission extended the trade measures that allow Ukrainian agricultural products to enter the EU without tariffs. The waiver was extended for one year. The governing body also

extended the ability of five neighbors to Ukraine (Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia) to restrict the domestic sales of selected crops while allowing those crops to enter the country for export into other countries.

Looking down under, May is typically defined as one of the most active months for New Zealand exports. However, the pace of China’s recovery has disrupted those volumes, says Dairy Market News, as well as the global economies. Dairy commodity processors point to China’s lack of demand with impacting short term price movement, relative to the New Zealand farm gate milk price.

Australia milk production trends remain below a year-ago levels in most regions. However, due to weak dairy product demand, dairy farmers stand to lose as processors released their farm gate milk price offerings for the upcoming season. Farm gate price offerings are set to decline as much as 10 percent from last season, according to Dairy Market News.

Lee Mielke is a syndicated columnist who resides in Everson, Wash. His weekly column is featured in newspapers across the country and he may be reached at lkmielke@juno.com. v

The benefits of rotational grazing

WAITE PARK, Minn. — Rotational grazing is a system in which the livestock are fenced into one section or paddock at a time and moved around the pasture as new grazing area becomes necessary. There are some pros and cons to this system.

The first advantage rotational grazing offers a farmer is an increase of 20 to 50 percent in forage production. This depends on how many paddocks are able to be used for grazing throughout the growing season. Moving your cattle to a new pasture before the current one becomes over grazed (grazed to the point of detriment to the soil/pasture) will allow the area to rest, opening the door for faster regrowth. This can lead to longer grazing seasons which will save money on feed. Consistent movement of cattle will also create a more even spread of manure across the paddocks.

Rotational grazing is also great for controlling the growth and spread of weeds and brush. Another benefit of this system is that many times it can be done on marginal land or land not suitable for growing row crops.

However, there are some initial drawbacks to moving into rotational grazing. Firstly, there is the cost of fencing and water distribution systems. It is also necessary to make sure that each of the pasture’s paddocks are of good quality. For the herd manager, it is expected there will be an adjustment period towards the more hands-on management style of

rotational grazing. The trick to rotational grazing is finding the delicate balance between under or overgrazing in each paddock.

Some practices that go into maintaining a good pasture are using fertilizers to boost the nitrogen and spreading manure over the pasture. Interseeding can also be an effective way to help keep a pasture healthy. This can be done by using no-till drills to place the seeds directly into the pasture. Although these machines are expensive, they are great for pastureland as they allow immediate seed to soil contact and minimal damage to the soil — all while allowing the farmer to control nearly every aspect of the planting. This technique should be done after close grazing or mowing of the area to allow the seeds to take hold and limit competition.

A different approach can be taken if you are trying to improve pasture quality instead of maintaining it. If the pasture is over-grazed, rotational grazing is the best way to rehabilitate pasture as it will give the different paddocks a chance to grow back and recover.

Similarly, under-grazed pasture can be fixed by increasing the stocking density and allowing the animals to graze the area to nearly 100 percent. This can be done by creating smaller paddocks based on the number of animals grazing, or increasing the time spent in each paddock.

This article was submitted by Emerson Roy, University of Minnesota Extension. 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

Fertilizer & Chemical

Glyphosate 5.4 totes, $15.50 Gen Liberty totes, $26.50; Enlist 1 totes, $49.95. Surestart 2 totes, $44.95. We ship most everywhere & all tote prices include Free Delivery to your farm or business. Please call or text for all your chemical needs. Phone 612-210-3685

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Bins & Buildings SILO

Take-down & clean up

Specializing in silos in congested areas. FULLY INSURED mobile concrete crushing. 507-236-9446

Bins & Buildings

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

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TRACTORS

NEW NH T4.75, T4.90, T4.120 w/loader On Order

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3-New Massey GC1725 ……..................... Just In

’21 Massey 4707 w/loader …................…. $59,500

’16 Massey 4608 rops w/loader …............. $39,900

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’17 NH T4.75 w/loader ……..................… $51,000

’12 NH T9.560 2200hrs ……..........…… $249,000

TILLAGE

Sunflower 4610 9-24 …….............…… COMING

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NEW NH L318/L320/L328 wheeled units ....... On Hand

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NH L228 low hours ............................................ $44,900

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New Disc Mowers - 107,108,109

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Frontiern WR1010 wheel rake …….............……… $4,750

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PLANTERS

JD 7200 12-30 w/LF ………........................…… $21,000

Taking 2023 New Spring Orders

COMBINES

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Farm Equipment

Firestone Tires, 18.4 R42 Radial Duals. Heavy JD cast rims. Never Used! $2,600. 507-829-6688

FOR SALE: 2 IH sickle mowers, one MN sickle mower, $50 each. Must sell or going for scrap.

651-686-8247

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320-212-4462

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612-867-2483

Gehl FH84 chopper, $500; 2self loading wagons, $1,000 each; 30’ bale elevator, $400; 8x55 Snowco grain auger; 4R rear mounted cultivator, $500. 320-221-0816

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DOWN SIZING ESTATE SALE

27282 630TH AVE • BROWNSDALE, MN 55918

FRIDAY JULY 14TH 9-4 • SATURDAY JULY 15TH 9-4

• Oliver 77 Row Crop missing front ½ Right tin

• Oliver 55ad

• Oliver 66 2 Row Crop

• Oliver 66 Super

• Oliver 88 Super

• Oliver 88 Super Diesel

• Oliver 88 Row Crop

• Oliver 77 Super

• Oliver 77 Row Crop

• Inter national 33 with Bucket. Also has snow bucket

• Oliver 88 Motor

Phone: 320-815-0460

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL?

SCHEDULE A MEETING TO SAVE YOUR DATE.

Kraig.DeJong@bigiron.com

Michelle.Weinzetl@bigiron.com

NOW ONE TEAM, BETTER TOGETHER

At BigIron, we pride ourselves on our commitment to customer service, transparency, and trust. With the acquisition of Sullivan Auctioneers and Henslin Auctions, we are excited to continue to uphold these values and build even stronger relationships with our customers.

With our combined expertise, we offer a vast network of resources and a team of experienced professionals that are dedicated to delivering exceptional results for all your auction needs. If you’re looking to buy or sell, we have the tools and the knowledge to help you achieve your goals.

Whether you’re a seasoned auction participant or new to the game, we invite you to explore what our partnership can do for you.

Together, we are better.

• 73 Polaris 18” Track Snowmobile

• 2004 Polaris Snowmobile

• Silver 2009 Chevrolet 3500 1 ton Dually. Crew Cab, 454 engine, 4wd Front End assist,equipped with 5th wheel hitch, 99,000 actual miles

• Chain Saws

• Lots of Tools

• Air Compressors

• Log Splitter

• New Post Hole Digger

• Lots of Misc. Items

SALE LED BY JOY’S ESTATE SALES GO TO ESTATESALES.NET FOR FURTHER LISTINGS AND PICTURES. 507-391-1821

Retirement Auction

Monday, July 10th 9:30 am

31649 571st Ave Winthrop, MN

This will be online simulcast auction. For online bidding & pictures go to: magesland.com

Directions: When traveling from Winthrop on Hwy 15, travel 5 miles, then turn west onto CR 8, travel 2 miles and turn north onto 571st Ave, travel 1.5 miles and the farm site is on the east side of the road. Auctioneers Note: Arlen has retired from a lifetime of farming. We are honored to be selling a very well maintained line of farm machinery. He was very particular with his farming operation. Hope to see you at the sale! - Ryan & Joe

Tractors: Caterpillar Challenger MT 765, 8157 hrs; JD 4440, overhaul in 2021, 16056 hrs; IH 856, diesel, 9813 hrs; Allis Chalmers D17 Series III; Allis Chalmer WD45; Machinery & Equipment: Timpte ag hopper grain trailer, 40’; JD 1770 planter,16 row; JD 8300 grain drill, 13’; JD 27 stalk chopper, 4 wheel; IH 875 disc ripper, 7 shank; JD 2210 field cultivator, 38.5’; JD 856 row cultivator, 16 row; JD 1100 field cultivator; Kewanee 1020 tandem disc, 21’; JD head mover; fast spray boom, 40’; Also included are various pieces of equipment, a grain cart, and misc personal property

Arlen Messerli

Listing Auctioneers: Joe Wersal ~ 507-220-5561 & Ryan Froehlich ~ 507-380-9256

For more info on specific items contact Arlen: 507 -276-8909

Live only bidding to follow conclusion of online simulcast bidding

Auctioneers: Matt Mages, New Ulm Lic 52-22-018; Larry Mages, Lafayette; Joe Wersal, Winthrop; Joe Maidl, Lafayette; John Goelz, Franklin; Ryan Froehlich, Winthrop; Clerk: Mages Land Co & Auction Service, LLC. All items sold “AS IS”. Not responsible for accidents.

This this a partial listing. More information coming soon! magesland.com

Farm Equipment

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

Hay & Forage Equipment

FOR SALE: New Holland 230 pull type chopper, with heads. 507-271-6922

Livestock Equipment

FOR SALE: Houle Super Pump, Model SP-R-8 on trailer, 30’ ft load stand, Original owner, low use, $11,500/OBO. 320-212-6544

Wanted

All kinds of New & Used farm equipment - disc chisels, field cults, planters, soil finishers, cornheads, feed mills, discs, balers, haybines, etc. 507438-9782

Upcoming Minnesota Land Auction

Only registered bidders may attend Minnesota Land For Sale

acres

For property brochures, contact Hertz at 507-345-LAND (5263) WWW.HERTZ.AG

151 St. Andrews Court #1310, Mankato MN 56001

Kandiyohi Co Farmland Auction

Wed., July 26th, 2023 at 11 AM

156+/- Deeded Acres, 151.87+/- Tillable Acres (as per FSA) of Farmland Located in Lake Lillian Twp, Kandiyohi Co

This land has a CPI=89.3, private tile & an excellent outlet.

Legal Description: The NE1/4 except the building site, Section 29, Twp 117, Range 34

Land Location: Take Hwy 7 south of Blomkest east 2 miles to Co Rd 44, go south 1 mile to Co Rd 78 (210th Ave SE), go east 0 5 miles to NW corner of the land Watch for auction signs

Owners: The Family of Bernard & Verna Anderson

Go to FladeboeLand.com for details

Kristine Fladeboe Duininck 320-212-9379

Kristine@FladeboeLand com

Glen Fladeboe • 651-208-3262

Glen@FladeboeLand com

Dale Fladeboe, Lic 34-12

Award Winning Auctioneers

Livestock

FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred (Mike) Kemen 320-598-3790

Cattle

POLLED HEREFORD

BULLS, yearlings and 2 year olds, low birth weight, high performance, semen tested and delivery available. Jones Farms, Le Sueur, MN. 507-317-5996

Swine

FOR SALE: Yorkshire, Hampshire, Duroc, cross bred boars, and gilts. Top quality. Excellent herd health. No PRSS. Delivery available. 320-760-0365

Spot, Duroc, Chester White, Boars & Gilts available. Monthly PRRS and PEDV. Delivery available. Steve Resler. 507-456-7746

Miscellaneous

PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS

New pumps & parts on hand. Call Minnesota’s largest distributor

HJ Olson & Company 320-974-8990 Cell - 320-212-5336

REINKE IRRIGATION

Registered Polled Hereford yearling bulls for sale. Have had all shots, poured and semen tested. Halter broke and broke to lead. Fantastic growth EPD’s! Will deliver. Klages Herefords, Ortonville, MN. 320-273-2163(H) 605-8800521(C)

Sales & Service New & Used For your irrigation needs 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073

Your ad could be here! 507-345-4523

AND MUCH MORE

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This week’s Back Roads is the work of The Land Staff Writer Laura Cole.

Pizza and pasture

Since August 2015, Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm has been providing its customers with freshly made pizzas to enjoy on the establishment’s rural grounds. Located northeast of Waseca, Minn. the pizza farm is owned and operated by Bill Bartz and Emily Knudsen.

Previously row crop land, in 2014 the couple began brainstorming alternative options for the 50-acre plot. Knudsen has past experience as a banquet manager, and suggested the idea of the pizza farm. Bartz wasn’t immediately sold, but after the couple visited AtoZ Produce and Bakery’s pizza farm in Stockholm, Wis., Bartz, a former carpenter, began to envision how things could look on their property. Work began clearing brush and spreading grass seed, and they spent that winter learning all things pizza.

The barn serves as a place to view the menu and order, and there is also a limited bar. Outside, there is an expansive area for dining. Guests provide their own seating, such as blankets or lawn chairs, as well as any desired dinnerware. Drinks and side dishes

are allowed to be brought in as an accompaniment to the pizza, and guests provide their own clean-up upon departure (bring a garbage bag). Bartz also recommends a sun canopy for shade.

Waseca, Minn.

Visitors can enjoy watching the farm’s two Boer goats, a llama and a Huacaya alpaca graze contentedly in a fenced area nearby. There is live music on most Thursdays and Sundays, as well as a selection of outdoor games and trails to meander through at guests’ leisure. (No pets are allowed at the pizza farm.)

There are two garden plots on site that Bartz said source 20 to 30 percent of the menu when ready for harvest. Arugula, tomatoes, onions, garlic, mint, and a variety of peppers are just some of the produce grown and utilized. “Basil is the most important crop that we grow,” Bartz stated, as the herb is used in their pesto, as well as a pizza topper. They also purchase proteins from local farmers.

A clanging dinner bell indicates when the next order is up, and the order number is viewable at the window. The menu’s offerings range from the classics of “Chuck” (pepperoni) and “Susie” (sausage) to pizzas with more novel ingredient combinations such as “Buster” (mushroom and sage olive oil, sausage, fresh basil, mushrooms, caramelized onions, and fresh mozzarella) and “Sweet Georgia Pie,” named for one of the resident goats, which is made with garlic-infused olive oil, prosciutto, goat cheese, fresh arugula, and honey.

Bartz describes him and his wife as foodies with a love for flavor. They each have their own strengths they bring to their business. Bartz thrives in overseeing the basics of the operation, and also ensuring a quality dough.

“The flair is her,” he said of Knudsen’s knack for creativity and developing flavor combinations.

Besides their standard menu, each week a feature pizza is offered. Recent innovations have been “Fajita Philly” and “Peary Springy.”

The couple often ends their nights overlooking their garden to converse and plan. “We create based on what’s happening here,” Bartz shared.

Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm is located at 41142 160th St., Waseca, Minn. Additional information such as hours, their mobile unit, and delivery service to Half Pint Brewing Company can be viewed at their website, pleasantgrovepizzafarm.com.