The Land - March 1, 2024

418

Vol.

COLUMNS

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Lions and Lambs

How did March arrive in your neck of the woods this morning? It if came in like a lamb, how fitting for our Lambs/Wool edition!

This winter has certainly been a mild one, and while I can’t say it doesn’t feel a little eerie, I’ve been glad my eight-yearold rooster hasn’t had too many frigid nights.

It’s likely a little too early to really believe spring is around the corner, but that song by Journey keeps me hoping anyway.

LAND MINDS

By Laura Cole

OPINION

Several years ago, my husband and I decided to paint our kitchen in late winter/early spring, and maybe due to wishful thinking I selected a pastel shade of green. I don’t remember the name of the hue, but I’d have named it Easter. Any other time of the year, I’d have gone with something very different, but I must have been needing spring in my life, and we’ve been coexisting with the color ever since.

Our official first day of spring this year is March 19, and even if the landscape won’t portray it, images of new life likely still come to mind. Renewal, emergence, all those spring green things.

It’s a strange time to feel recent loss, but then again, I don’t know if there’s really a time any more or less suitable. My mother-in-law died this past month, and I still can›t really believe it. Full of life and always up for an adventure; her 60th birthday would have been this September. Likely all of us know how cruel cancer can be.

Not one to ever dwell on the negative, Wendy kept a poem posted on her refrigerator that proclaimed cancer’s limitations. The author — unknown — declares that cancer cannot among other things cripple love, shatter hope, kill friendship, shut out memories, silence courage. She lived that poem, and made it fact.

Decades of appointments, surgeries, and unknowns; that’s a long road. Her visits to Rochester gave reason to stay at our home with us for a few days in our “orange room” — named for a previous homeowner’s own electric paint choice. (It has since been remedied.)

Sometimes, the visits were twice a year, but sometimes quarterly, and sometimes more often than that. Surrounding days of scans and consultations, she was always up for something fun. Places to hike, fun restaurants to try. She didn’t live in denial, but she had the disposition to make the most of the situation.

Just a few weeks ago, we walked out of hospital sliding doors and made our way through the parking lot. The high temps didn’t match our spirits, but the sun shining brightly gave a welcome warmth.

Grief, and often Midwest weather, isn’t always so linear. With plenty of ups and downs in the process,

it’s quite a bit like life in general.

On our trip back for the funeral, it was snowing. We left a day early to avoid the worst of the weather, and travel time still took an extra hour as we passed by several vehicles in ditches.

The morning of her funeral found me awake far too early. The skill of getting a full night’s sleep is one I lost a few years ago, and so I slipped out of hotel room 107 to head for a cup of mediocre coffee. I slid into a booth and opened the book I brought along. It’s kind of a doom and gloom novel; but because I still have an extensive bookmark collection from my childhood, my page was saved by a laminated cartoon bluebird with wings raised and the word “Enjoy!” written in red script.

I read, but mostly let my mind wander. As time moved, families began to trickle into the dining area. The hotel had a waterpark and I could hear parents convincing their children of the benefits of eating a breakfast prior to a day of cannonballs and waterslides. As kids stood by the windows looking toward the pool, a parent repeated herself. “There›s pancakes. That would be good.” I wondered and perhaps she did too, who designed this layout.

I look down again at my cheery little bird and manage to get lost in the pages. My husband and daughter join me a bit later, and as we eat, we talk a little, laugh a little. I look at my little trio and think, and yet, we›re going to a funeral.

The moment reminded me of a few years prior. My dad’s last days were spent in a facility. As it was the summer of 2020, my family mostly remained outside his window and cherished any moment we were granted time with him.

There was immense grief and also some sunburn. The mosquitoes were wild that year, and I texted a friend that the then-talk of murder hornets was going to be my tipping point. Amid the heartwrenching situation, we found reprieve in humorous instances like when the lawn sprinklers went off unexpectedly, sending my siblings and me scrambling. When I paid for my morning drive-thru coffee, I smiled and thanked the employee and thought, she has no idea that my dad is dying.

How many people today are getting their coffee, walking the dog, eating breakfast in a hotel, all the while going through something devastating? That mantra of being kind rings clear.

Now, a couple days after my mother-in-law’s funeral, we settled in for the haul back home. The new snow was already melting. Our dog, Duke, gave an unceremonious flop in the backseat, tuckered from time with the other family dogs.

As my husband drove along, he pointed out deer, grouse, and asked me to keep an eye out for pheas-

Cover photo by Ann

Fishing with Father: ‘And the Lord said to Peter…’

While my father milked cows and farmed for almost 50 years, I never heard him say he loved (or for that matter even liked) either cows or farming.

I did know he loved to fish; and it may have been that great passion which gave him the quiet patience to endure the days and decades of machinery breakdowns, sick Holsteins, six children, and his not-always-helpful Uncle Honey.

FARM & FOOD FILE

By Alan Guebert

I knew this because it didn’t take much to get him to talk about his fishcentered youth: vacations with neighborhood friends to northern Minnesota in the 1930s; creekside camping and fishing under the stars with high school pals in the early 1940s; his 1950 honeymoon on Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks so he … well, could fish.

Later, fishing kept those carefree, cow-free days alive. Most times it was just a couple of hours on slow, lazy Sunday afternoons with me and a couple of my brothers when, after his post-dinner noon nap, Dad would ask,“Who wants to go to the river” — meaning the just-over-the-levee Kaskaskia River — “to see what’s bitin’?”

Usually it was the slow nibbles of toothy alligator gars or the slamming hits of a fish we called drum. Dad wanted neither; so we usually went home empty handed. “Ah,” he’d say, “it’s more about gettin’ the fever down anyway.”

In the late 1960s Dad bought a V-hull, 16-foot aluminum boat with a 40 horsepower Scott-Atwater outboard motor. It “needed work” of course, so my brothers and I were recruited to replace dozens of leaky rivets, fiberglass its exterior ribs and bow, and sand it smooth and bare for a recoat of snappy azure blue and bright white.

A couple of years later, I was in that refurbished boat one summer morning with my father and a longtime camping friend, our congregation’s pastor,

crappie fishing on Kentucky Lake. When the morning heat built, however, the crappie bites cooled.

My patient father, who had never had a bad day fishing no matter the results, kept his feathery jig dancing and the conversion moving.

Pastor Holstein (I kid you not) wasn’t entertained by either. Soon he, who insisted Dad call him “Bob” when not in church, launched into a no-fish dirge that sounded like a reading from the bitter book of Lamentations.

When he finished, Dad looked at him and said in a firm voice, “Well, Bob, remember your Bible: ‘And the Lord said to Peter, “Peter, you dummy! Cast out on the other side!’”

I didn’t know whether to laugh out loud or jump into the lake to keep from laughing out loud. Pastor, however, guffawed so hard it shook the boat but he quickly followed the Lord’s advice.

As my brothers and I got older and more able to take over the milking and fieldwork, Dad traded his “alumatub” for a quieter, better equipped, fiberglass boat. Soon he and Mom (an avid fisher, too) would

spend weekends fishing and camping at state parks and local lakes.

Then, after the cows went in the late 1980s, Dad acquired a new, 18-footer that had more conveniences and luxuries than any house he and Mom ever lived in. “There’s no law that says you can’t be comfortable having fun,” he said by way of explanation.

The last time I fished with Dad was in that comfortable boat. Always wanting to get to any fish first, Dad claimed the bow seat. I was in the stern, and my two older brothers — in a 40-year-old replay of those sultry Sunday afternoons on the Kaskaskia — were parked in the swivel seats in between.

It was an achingly beautiful spring afternoon and we were fishing on a small, private, spring-fed lake hidden in the southern Illinois hills. The fish were hitting, the beer was cold, and the love was honest and unmentioned.

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

Thank bright light for its warmth

ant for, I think, no other reason than just to say I saw one. He spotted a coyote and maybe a half hour later, another one walked across frozen water.

What caught my eye was the rainbow ray that moved along the snow, running parallel to us. I thought about capturing the moment with a video, but reminded myself my heart can do the same. I watched the ray until it was gone. The light, I know, will always be there.

Life comes at us in storms and sunshine, as a lion and as a lamb. Fiercely and gently, so often all at once. Humanity asks of us to embrace — or at the very least — brace for all of it. When you see a bright light, and when you have the pleasure of meeting one, thank them for their warmth.

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

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LAND MINDS, from pg. 2

Winona County sheep producer boosts productivity with grazing

By ANN WESSEL Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources

RUSHFORD, Minn. — With rotational grazing and assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Tom Scarponcini has improved the health of both livestock and land on his Winona County farm.

“If you can raise twice as many animals on the same limited number of acres, you have a distinct economic advantage,” Scarponcini said in mid-September while checking on his flock of Île-de-France sheep. “You can change poor pasture into lush pasture by managing the amount of time that the livestock are allowed to graze.”

Protected from coyotes by two attentive Maremma sheepdogs, 75 ewes grazed in a blufftop pasture. Scarponcini aims to expand the flock to 100 ewes. His setup (portable fencing within four permanently fenced paddocks to accommodate strip grazing on 20 acres) makes it easy to adjust for flock size and grass growth.

A renter grazes cattle on the farm’s remaining 275 acres of rotationally grazed permanent pasture and grows corn and soybeans on 400 acres of tillable land. Woods cover another 160 acres.

“One of my goals is to leave the production ability of this farm in better condition than I found it. Rotational grazing will do that. You’re adding plant material to the soil to increase organic matter to make the soil more productive. You’re preventing erosion. You’re allowing the farm to be more productive, and it’s a really good way to control noxious weeds.”

Neighbors have asked how he’s controlled the thistles. Spraying? Mowing?

“I did neither. I fenced in the areas and made paddocks for rotational grazing. By allowing the grass the recovery time that it needed after a short period of grazing, the grasses were able to thrive and crowd out the weeds,” Scarponcini said.

20 acres of blufftop pasture. The Maremma sheepdogs protect the animals from coyotes.

“I have this philosophy that we’re really here borrowing this land from future generations, in that

there is a moral obligation to leave it in at least as good a condition that you found it,” Scarponcini said.

Scarponcini grew up in a Newark, N.J. suburb with aspirations — but no knowledge or experience — of raising livestock. Heeding his father’s advice to find a high-paying backup, he pursued interests in chemistry, biology and medicine. He became a pharmacist and a hobby farmer. Hobby farming eventually led him to Winona County and turned into a 250-head cow-calf operation, where sheep were a sideline at first.

Scarponcini started with an over-grazed, weedchoked operation. Over the span of 30 years, he has worked with grazing experts and with Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) assistance from NRCS to establish and fine-tune a rotational grazing system.

“They have just given me a tremendous amount of help in designing, cost-sharing, technical assistance and even the everyday management of the rotational grazing system,” Scarponcini said. “I’ve relied on them for their expertise. It has turned this farm around dramatically, from what I originally encountered when I moved here to what it is now. I would not have been able to do that without them.”

Scarponcini has recently worked with Dean Thomas, a Fillmore Soil and Water Conservation District-based regional grazing specialist and soil

Photo courtesy of Ann Wessel, BWSR Tom Scarponcini, left, and Dean Thomas looked over Scarponcini’s flock of Île-de-France sheep in September 2023 in Winona County north of Rushford. With technical advice from Thomas, a regional grazing specialist, and with assistance from NRCS, Scarponcini established a strip-grazing setup within

The calendar tells me, ‘today is the day’

Well, the word is out. Consistent phone pop ups, letters and requests from all kinds of people and businesses want to help me ease into this next phase of life.

While it is good to know the availability of all the beauty products ready to feed my vanity (as if, that needed any help); and the opportunity for additional insurance for the bumps in life that will arise out of nowhere; and items out there to aid my aging body; I have to wonder who the watch dogs are that know so much about me. They are so confident in putting the word out that this year (Lord willing) my 65th birthday will be celebrated on March 21.

That birthday doesn’t seem all that old now, as it did 40 years ago; but after looking at the coins that returned to me when shopping, rarely, if ever, do I find one that ancient.

Because I was born the last year of a

FROM MY FARMHOUSE KITCHEN

By Renae B. Vander Schaaf

decade, I qualify as a 50’s model — not the fashion world type, even though the style of clothing from that era still appeals to me.

Way back then, calendar printers declared the first day of spring was March 21 — a countdown to mark the end of winter and spring’s arrival. For my parents, it was a laborious day.

It was a warm, lovely day, so I am told. My dad and mom (typical young farmers for that generation) would have had plenty of chores to do with dairy cows, pigs and cattle. It may have even been possible to plant oats that day. But no, today was the day — the first of many times I would require a change in their plans.

Christmas 1962 I am the older girl—definitely blessed

No doubt, with plenty of trepidation, they went to the hospital. My parents sadly had experienced a deep sorrow the pregnancy before. My mom went into labor with full term twins. One was born dead and the other severely brain

damaged. A time of anguish that remained throughout life and even for us brothers and sisters.

Luckily, my parents and older brother spoiled me from the start. More children came soon. A brother will turn 65 next year and a sister the next. In due time, two more brothers and two more sisters were happily welcomed into the family.

I grew up in a home where my parents loved me and thought enough of me to see that the Bible was read and verses memorized. We sat together as a family in church every Sunday. So yes, I was both spoiled and blessed.

It seems like it didn’t take long to transition this young un’ into an oldster. They tell me that mirrors don’t lie; but you can’t tell me they don’t exaggerate the crinkles. A transformation which supposedly happens gradually sure seemed to hasten the last few years.

While each birthday is significant, this one has become a mile marker. When this number hits, we become aware that the day of reckoning is

coming soon — and we must consider eternity. That probably isn’t what the government intended when they instituted social security; but filling out the papers is a stark reminder that life will not always remain as it is now.

With that in mind, on these cold winter days, a feeble start at reducing has begun. Oh, not my physical being (I gave up on that a long time ago), but more on those to-do projects.

Through the years my fabric stash has grown to amazing proportions — all needed for that future “someday” when I have the time and the skill to sew fantastic quilts. Well, the time is here now. While the skill is still lacking, my motto is, today is the day. My scissors have been busy, although the dent into the stash isn’t even noticeable. It’s a good thing my girls enjoy sewing.

In my downstairs sewing room there is also a bushel box stuffed with yarn. Our town had a wonderful yarn store

Grasses prevent nutrients from entering streams and lakes

health technician whose territory covers 22 counties. Scarponcini had previously worked with Thomas and his predecessors to establish rotational grazing for his cattle.

When Scarponcini moved out of the cow-calf operation and expanded his flock, Thomas worked with him to convert cropland to rotationally grazed pasture which required seeding, fencing, establishing a water source and developing a management plan. The goal of this endeavor was to move the flock out of the shed and onto grass to improve overall health and hoof health, and to give the sheep more exercise.

Scarponcini settled on a four-strand Poly Wire Gallagher fence (a portable fence made of wires embedded in plastic), with a strip-grazing type of setup and a portable water source.

NRCS assistance in 2022 offset part of the cost of installing about 5,670 feet of fencing and about 2,100 feet of surface pipeline that year. He seeded that pasture and added the portable water tanks on his own.

The management-intensive system requires moving the flock every one to three days. Strip-grazing makes it possible to adjust the grazed area to the growing season.

“The benefit is you should have grass in front of them all the time. You’re going to have better animal

Three questions with Dean Thomas

Dean Thomas, a Fillmore SWCD-based regional grazing specialist and soil health technician, works directly with producers and trains conservation workers across a 22-county region.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about rotational grazing?

You don’t get results overnight. It’s just like switching from conventional tillage to minimumtill or no-till. It takes time. But over time you’re going to start seeing the benefits: better animal health. You’re going to have wildlife coming in. You’re going to have healthier soils, healthier grasses. If that cow moves into lush grass, even in July and August, if she’s milking good, that calf is gaining weight.

What trends are you seeing?

In the last couple of years, there has been a higher demand (from) people doing rotational grazing. Some of it’s repeat customers. We’re getting more bigger operations getting into it. I think a lot of them are looking at trying to extend their grazing season somehow, (some) with cover crops at the end (of the season), but most of them are looking at rotational grazing. The number-one issue we have in the whole state of Minnesota is everybody wants to have way more cattle than what they’ve got land to (support). I’d say a lot of our pastures are overstocked. If they would cut back their stocking rates, they’ll be weaning probably at the same weight with less animals. By doing that, you’re going to be supplement feeding less, and you’ll be able to graze longer in the season.

What’s the first question someone considering rotational grazing should ask?

When do they have time to do this management? By setting up rotational grazing, you’re going to have to be managing and moving cattle. Once a week? This doesn’t work for everybody. Some people just don’t have the time to do it. You have to have time to make this work, because if you don’t have time to move (cattle) and manage (grazing), there’s no sense in moving forward. v

health. Your (animals) are going to be a lot quieter to work with. Their disposition is going to be fantastic most of the time because you’re moving them, you’re checking on them daily. And your herd health is going to be better because if you have any issues, you’re going to catch them in time,” Thomas said.

Thomas explained how turning the animals out onto 12-inch growth and moving them when the grasses are 4 to 6 inches tall allows regrowth and more well-developed root systems. Healthier plants pull in more nutrients and hold more water.

Rotationally grazed animals distribute manure more evenly.

The dense, perennial cover also helps to control wind and water erosion, which, in turn benefits water quality. Water from Scarponcini’s farm eventually flows to the Root River, a designated trout stream, and then to the Mississippi River.

“Your grasses are going to be filtering and catching all the nutrients so (they) don’t hit our rivers and streams and lakes,” Thomas said.

Scarponcini lists another benefit in addition to the economics, higher-quality fodder and erosion control:

“When you either graze or cut a plant, an equal amount of root system dies proportional to the amount of plant that you’ve harvested,” Scarponcini said. “As that root system dies, it adds organic matter to the soil and you end up with a soil that is richer, that has more water-holding capacity for times of drought, and has better cation exchange for the uptake of nutrients by the plants.”

Over the past couple of years, Thomas said he has seen increased interest in rotational grazing. For some, it is a way to extend the grazing season. For others, it is a way to make the most of available land. About 90 percent of the graziers he works with have off-the-farm jobs, which leaves little time for intensive management.

“This (doesn’t) work for everybody. Some people just don’t have the time to do it. You have to have time to make this work, because if you don’t have time to move them and manage it, there’s no sense in moving forward,” Thomas said.

By checking on his flock every day, Scarponcini has realized indirect benefits.

“You’re observing the grasses that are growing at your feet, the birds that are flying overhead, the wildlife that you see every single day. So it transforms what would otherwise be a job into a way of life. The benefits are far beyond the financial return in doing that work,” Scarponcini said. “Just giving you an opportunity to see nature at work every single day — the rewards of that are anything beyond you can put a pricetag or a dollar value on. It’s a way of life.” v

One knitting project at a time is underway

FARMHOUSE KITCHEN, from pg. 5

for a few years and somehow, those unique, lovely dyed yarns ended up in my hands. Since my thought is today is the day, one knitting project at a time is commenced and eventually finished. It’s a good thing all my girls enjoy knitting and crocheting.

As things look now, life will just continue as is. I can’t retire, because that’s a privilege for those who have had a career. My energy and thought has been towards keeping a home for my farmer, our children and now grandchildren. Yes, I have been spoiled and blessed.

My parents chose to name me Renae, a name that means reborn. So perfect for a birthday on the first

New Ulm Farm Show

showcases ag

The annual New Ulm Farm-City Hub Club Farm Show will take over the south arena of the New Ulm Civic Center on March 8 and 9. Show hours are 1 to 8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

The show will feature the latest in farm equipment, technology, and services. Exhibitors include farm equipment suppliers, agricultural lenders, auctioneers, communications companies, ag building suppliers, government services, and more.

On March 8 at 3 p.m. Brown and Nicollet County officials will discuss cyber and phone scams. The U.S. Highway 14 project takes center stage at 4 p.m. that same day. The Minnesota Department of Transportation will highlight project roundabouts and more. The final session of the day, at 5 p.m., will showcase farmland and equipment trends

A town hall meeting with elected officials takes place on March 9 at 9:30 a.m. At 1 p.m., Brown and Nicollet County Dairy Princess coronations will be held.

For further information, contact show chairman Brian Fischer via email at brianf@designhomecenter. com or call (507) 276-6322.

This article was submitted by the New Ulm FarmCity Hub Club. v

day of spring; when new life is appearing all around us. And it’s a good reminder to me. Each morning when the sun comes up, today is the day — to consider my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and all that He has done for me.

I owe Him my all as He left His throne in glory to come down to die on the cross to pay for my sin and redeem me from the clutches of the devil. It is my desire to live a life of gratitude for this salvation. Today is the day to wonder how the God who creat-

ed the mountains with all their grandeur, and hung the stars in the sky, could look upon me with love and forgiveness.

The theme of my life now chimes with the very last verse of Psalm 115: “we will praise the Lord from henceforth and forever. Praise ye the Lord.”

Hallelujah! Today is the day to praise the Lord.

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

Letter: Temperature vs. climate

To the Editor,

OPINION

After reading Michael Thiesse’s letter to the editor in the Feb. 16 issue, (“Warm temperatures are nothing new”) I have some thoughts.

Mr. Thiesse, you might consider checking out the difference between temperature and climate.

Think about the rising seas levels.

Think about the shrinking ice caps and glaciers.

Think about the amount of surface water that has disappeared during our life time.

Think about the changing dates for the first frost, the dates for the last frost, and the length of growing season.

Think about the increasing numbers of storms and the increasing destructiveness of those storms.

Think about the increasing numbers of wild fires and the weather conditions that cause them.

Think about whether this is a “liberal” or conservative or political party issue or an issue that mankind needs to come together to consider.

But most importantly, think about your grandchildren and great grandchildren who may feel the dramatic effects of “global warming”. It may be a cycle of climate but are we bringing it on faster and with more ferocity than it needs to be with our life styles?

I know I am not perfect either nor are the people you suggest. I am not sure your characterization of them is correct. It seems hybrid cars might be close to some sort of compromise for the freedom issue you mention. Why not consider compromise for the good of all of us?

I do agree with you when you say “elections do have consequences.”

Doug Kolbe Owatonna, Minnesota

Milk output is the lowest since January 2022

This column was written for the marketing week ending Feb. 23.

Dairy farm milk production continues to struggle and remained below a year ago for the seventh consecutive month. The U.S.

Department of Agriculture’s preliminary data for January showed output at 19.09 billion pounds, down 1.1 percent from January 2023.The top 24-state total, at 18.3 billion pounds, was down 0.9 percent.

MIELKE MARKET WEEKLY

By Lee Mielke

20 percent below a year ago and heifers are limited.

Output per cow in the 50 states averaged 2,047 pounds, up 32 pounds from December, but seven pounds or 0.3 percent below January 2023.

MARKETING

This was the biggest decline in milk output since January 2022. However, components were very strong, with component adjusted production increasing from plus 0.7 percent to plus 1 percent, according to StoneX broker Dave Kurzawski in the Feb. 26 “Dairy Radio Now” broadcast.

The December 50-state total was revised down 10 million pounds from last month’s estimate, which put output down 0.4 percent from 2022, instead of the 0.3 percent originally reported.

Nobody expected that, Kurzawski said, but the biggest surprise was cow numbers. January cows totaled 9.325 million, down 23,000 from the December count which was revised 9,000 head lower, and is down 76,000 or 0.8 percent from a year ago. The herd peaked at 9.433 million head in March last year but is the smallest since August 2019.

“Generally, we add cows in first quarter,” Kurzawski said, “but we lost 23,000. However, that’s only one side the equation.”

The data is also interesting, considering January slaughter numbers ran

The report shows there are problems on the farm, Kurzawski said, and we have new processing coming online mid-year and into 2025. “We’re not going into that on a real strong footing on the farm and people need to pay attention to that,” he reported. “We believe output will grow in the second half. However, we have lowered our estimate for the year to a plus 0.2 percent and that might be a little rich.”

The average number of milk cows on U.S. farms in 2023 was revised down 9,000 head to 9.39 million, according to the USDA, down 0.1 percent from 2022. The average cow number has increased 1.3 percent from 2014.

Meanwhile, dairy cow culling jumped the first month of 2024. The latest Livestock Slaughter report showed an estimated 250,200 head were sent to slaughter under federal inspection in January, up 25,500 head from December, but that was 47,700 head or 16 percent below January 2023.

The week ending Feb. 10 saw 61,700 head go to slaughter, up 1,700 from the previous week, but 5,700 or 8.5 percent below a year ago. Year to date, 337,400 head have been culled so far, down 68,600 or 16.9 percent from a year ago.

n

Chicago Mercantile Exchange block cheddar closed the last Friday of February at $1.55 per pound. This is

up 7 cents on the President’s Day holiday-shortened week and reversed two weeks of decline, as traders anticipated the afternoon’s January Cold Storage report. The blocks closed 33 cents below that week a year ago.

The barrels finished at $1.6150, three-quarter cents higher, three-quarter cents above a year ago, and 6.5 cents above the blocks. Sales totaled 19 loads of block and six of barrel.

Cheese buying interest remain quiet according to most Midwest contacts, says Dairy Market News. Barrel producers say orders are steady, if not strong. “Loads are going at above-market pricing, and if one customer backs away, another one will step in,” says Dairy Market News.

Milk pricing was holding around Class III for the most part, ranging 50 cents under to 50 cents over at midweek. Last year, the range was $10 — $2.50 under Class III. Cheese production has held steadier in recent weeks, says Dairy Market News, as cheddar inventories are slowly increasing in the region.

Retail cheese demand is steady to lighter in the West. Food service is stronger, and International demand is steady to moderate. Milk availability varies from “somewhat tighter to somewhat looser.”

Butter remains strong, closing Feb. 23 at $2.85 per pound. This is up 10 cents on the week (the highest since Nov. 7), and 42 cents above a year ago, with 24 sales.

Cream is still abundant in the Midwest and a number of contacts expect that to continue for the month. Cream multiples are hovering at market up to 1.15 for churners. Slower ice cream production remains a factor. Butter demand is seasonally standard both in food service and retail, says Dairy Market News

Grade A nonfat dry milk climbed to a Feb. 23 finish at $1.20 per pound. This is 3 cents higher on the week, but 1.5 cents below a year ago, with 15 sales for the week.

Dry whey closed at 52.25 cents per pound, up a quarter-cent on the week and 5.75 cents above a year ago, again with only one sale reported at the CME.

n

“CME Class 3 milk futures continued their recovery that started in late January,” according to the latest Margin Watch from Chicago-based Commodity and Ingredient Hedging LLC. “but have since backed off the past couple weeks.”

Cheese production and demand have been improving, helping to support Class 3 prices. The Margin Watch reported highlights from the latest Dairy Products report and warned, “The export market will need to improve in 2024 to help support higher dairy product values and milk prices.”

Recent declines in EU milk production are “encouraging,” the Margin Watch stated. It also reported, “2023 U.S. dairy product exports totaled slightly more than 5.8 billion pounds, down 7.3 percent from the prior year and the lowest annual volume since 2020. A struggling global economy led by weak demand in China worked against exports last year.” n

Fluid milk sales returned to their norm in December. The USDA’s latest data shows packaged sales at 3.7 billion pounds, down 2.8 percent from 2022, following a 0.3 percent tick up in November and 1 percent rise in October.

There’s plenty of cream in the West and churns are busy or near capacity as manufacturers build inventory for second and third quarter demand. Some contacts say butter supplies are tighter compared to the last couple years. Unsalted butter loads are somewhat tight while domestic demand is stronger. International inquiries have been more frequent and export demand is steady.

Conventional product sales totaled 3.4 billion pounds, down 3.4 percent from a year ago. Organic products, at 245 million pounds, were up 6.8 percent and represented 6.7 percent of total sales for the month.

Whole milk sales totaled 1.3 billion pounds, down 1.1 percent from a year ago, but 1 percent ahead of a year ago, and represented 35 percent of total sales for the year. Skim milk sales, at 167 million pounds, were down 12 percent from a year ago and down 8.8 percent for all of 2023.

Grazing at Grams Park: ‘Sleep, creep and leap’

By LAURA COLE

The Land Staff Writer

A 24-acre plot at Grams Regional Park in Zimmerman, Minn. is undergoing the steady transition from an old hayfield to native prairie. Among the moving pieces in the process have been a whole lot of sheep and goats.

The hayfield most recently consisted of persistent perennial cool season grasses, predominantly smooth bromegrass and quackgrass. Gina Hugo, Sherburne County’s Parks Director, shared since she laid eyes on the hayfield she felt it should be prairie, but figuring out how to make it happen took some planning and additional resources.

Because of the area’s specific topography and surrounding environment, Hugo shared standard go-to methods for site prep were ruled out. Mechanical cultivation would have resulted in opening the soil to erosion. Chemical use was out of the picture for a few reasons. Grams Regional Park is the county’s most used park, and Hugo stated she didn’t want to broadcast chemical in that type of setting. She also noted that because the ground is so rough from gophers, they likely would not have achieved a good application.

She also noted, “Now that we’re starting to realize other possibilities for site prep, we, in our park system, are less inclined to always just depend on chemicals and just the quick site preparation when we have the room and the latitude to work with natural processes and can accept a slower establishment of native prairie. Maybe it’s

better not to have it be pristinely clean of weeds if we can avoid putting chemicals out there that we don’t necessarily know the long-term implications of on pollinator populations.”

Grazing animals are an advantageous alternative as they can eat the non-native grasses and shrubs.

Hugo stated the Sherburne Soil and Water Conservation District reached out to Sherburne County Parks to partner on a Habitat Enhancement Landscape Program (HELP) grant project. They received the grant from the Board of Water and Soil Resources. Funding was through an appropriation from the Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund.

“This project at Grams was the perfect fit, because I didn’t know how else we were going to afford and justify being able to bring in enough grazing to achieve site prep and do any prairie planting,” Hugo stated.

The first step in the project was a prescribed burn on July 20, 2022. When

growth returned to roughly boot-height, they brought in Katahdin sheep and Spanish goats to graze it down to the earth.

For each grazing session, 200 to 400 animals were utilized. MNL, an ecological restoration company, provided the animals and managed their rotations.

Depending on the exact number implemented, the animals grazed for two to four weeks at a time. They also had access to a water tank and mineral cakes. For the first grazing, they utilized more goats than sheep as Hugo stated there were woody species in the

first round that the goats took care of. “Sheep really do a much better job on grass forage,” Hugo noted. The second round of grazing which took place in the fall of 2022 consisted of more sheep than goats.

In the spring of 2023, the plot was planted with a diverse mix of grasses and forbs with a goal to establish a beneficial pollinator habitat that will support threatened species, such as the rusty patched bumble bee. It was important that the selections made would allow for an abundant floral resource throughout the entire growing season.

Hugo recognized Frances Gerdes with the Sherburne County Soil and Water Conservation District as well as Xerces Society and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services for their provided expertise.

“We were able to really refine our species list to achieve the best objective for pollinators,” Hugo stated.

Due to the field’s varying topography, they used three mixes. Twenty-nine species of wildflowers were planted as seed, as well as two sedges and nine native grasses. The grasses were primarily little bluestem, junegrass, sideoats grama, and rough dropseed. In smaller quantities, indiangrass, slender wheatgrass, and big bluestem were also planted.

That summer, the third grazing took place, which consisted of all sheep. Because goats offer protection to sheep as they graze, this time, they brought in a donkey to serve as a protector.

Hugo reported the grazers produced the desired results for the project. “I

Photo courtesy of Gina Hugo. Sheep and goats were brought in for the first grazing of the park land. The goats prefer woody plants while the sheep do better with grass forage.

Photo courtesy of MNL Corp

The first step in restoring a hayfield to native prairie was a prescribed burn in 2022.

Spring is coming and a young farmer’s heart turns to … manure?!?

Maybe your manure plan involves fall application, but as the soils thaw and the tiles begin to run, it’s a good idea to review a few environmental protection habits which will help keep nutrients where they belong.

University of Minnesota Extension provides good resources for nutrient application calculation and groundwater and shoreland protection at its manure management website: extension.umn.edu/ livestock-operations/manure-management.

Extension’s manure management specialist, Melissa Wilson, and manure management crops educator Chryseis Modderman provide the latest best management practices for manure application in our Land of 10,000 Lakes and 8.9 million pigs.

Application timing

The best time to apply manure is dependent on farm logistics, weather, soil conditions and a producer’s willingness to take risks. U of M Extension recommends applying manure in the fall only after the soil temps are below 50 degrees and if soil textures are not coarse. When applying manure in the spring, wait until the snowmelt is complete and soils are thawed and drying. Springtime application will provide nutrients closer to the time growing crops will use them with a lower chance of nutrient loss. Conversely, if springtime soil conditions are poor, planting may be late after delayed manure application.

Summer application is also an option. Dr. Wilson’s research has shown that directly applying liquid hog manure into growing corn can be successful; Injecting manure between the young rows provides maximum nutrient value, but specialized equipment is needed.

Calculating nutrients

Before planning for manure applications, consider how the nutrients will be managed for the upcoming crop. Will all the nitrogen be supplied from manure? This will require a higher application rate and will overapply phosphorus and potassium for the crop year. If done too often, there could be environmental consequences when excess phosphorus enters waterways. A lower rate can be used to supply all the phosphorus the crop needs. This will

SWINE & U

By Diane DeWitte

allow the manure to be spread over more acres but will require additional nitrogen and possibly potassium to be applied as a commercial fertilizer.

Once you choose a strategy, find the nutrient needs of the crop and calculate the actual nutrient availability in the manure. While this sounds simple, there are slight differences in calculations depending on whether you are basing your applications on nitrogen or phosphorus needs of the crop or are using liquid or solid manure. When using liquid swine manure, the chance of over-applying phosphorus is critical to remember. Dr. Wilson provides the latest application rate guidelines based on nitrogen or phosphorus at this website: https://extension.umn.edu/ manure-management/manure-application-rates.

Pathogen mitigation

Modderman addressed the manure pathogen issue and reducing common microorganisms in manure.

Livestock manure is a valuable source of crop nutrients, but it can also come with pathogens which may cause livestock and people to become ill. The number and type of pathogens in manure vary based on animal species, feed, and animal health. There are many different types of pathogens in manure, so using multiple best management practices at once will give the best results.

Pathogens can infect humans directly through contact with manure or indirectly through contaminated water and food. Children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are at the highest risk for infection.

Common manure pathogens include bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. These pathogens can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and in the worst-case scenario, death. Over the years, there

have been several disease outbreaks from manure exposure in the United States.

Common bacteria found in livestock manure include Campylobacter, E.coli, Leptospira, Salmonella and Yersinia. Rotavirus is the most prevalent virus found in manure, and Cryptosporidium and Giardia are protozoa found in livestock manure and pet feces.

Modderman points out three main areas of focus where livestock producers can reduce pathogens:

In the animal — Stressed, unhealthy livestock are more likely to excrete pathogens than healthy animals. Therefore, keeping livestock healthy needs to be a priority to reduce the amount of pathogens in manure. Just because an animal appears healthy, does not necessarily mean that their manure will be pathogen-free. Some animals are carriers of disease without ever showing symptoms, themselves.

To keep livestock healthy, provide clean feed and water; stay current on vaccinations; provide appropriate space allowance per animal; have good barn ventilation and temperature regulation; stress strict biosecurity and sanitation measures — including fly and vermin control; and utilize slotted floors or prompt manure removal from barn.

Another way to decrease pathogens in manure is through feed selection. Adding antimicrobials to feed will reduce the number of pathogens in manure. Organic acids and yeast extracts added to feed have also been effective at lowering the number of pathogenic bacteria in manure. Replacing finely-ground feed with coarsely-ground feed can reduce Salmonella content in swine manure. Livestock producers should talk to their veterinarian before drastically changing feed.

During manure collection and storage, using vegetative buffers near storage and areas of runoff will filter out pathogens before they reach a waterway. The effectiveness of a buffer strip depends on many factors. The ideal buffer will have loam-textured soil for good infiltration, with high organic matter and adsorption rate. Buffer vegetation should have deep, fibrous roots. Buffers should be at least 15 feet wide with a shallow slope and no rill or gully erosion for even flow (Minnesota law requires 16.5 feet along ditches, and 50 feet along lakes, rivers and streams.) Keep in mind buffers will be relatively ineffective during the winter and at snowmelt.

Storing manure under anaerobic (no oxygen) conditions, like deep pits below livestock housing, will also reduce pathogens. Though some bacteria can survive anaerobic conditions, most pathogens will

Owatonna hosts North American Farm & Power Show

Spring is just around the corner and so is the North American Farm and Power Show. Held March 14-16 at the Steele County Fairgrounds and Four Seasons Centre in Owatonna, Minn., the show once again will feature seminars and an extensive exhibit area.

Over 150 companies are scheduled to be on display.

www.tradexpos.com

The University of Minnesota Extension is back with a lineup of educational seminars on Thursday and Friday of the show.

On March 14 at 1 p.m., Dr. Joe Armstrong will present “Building the foundation for cattle health on your farm.” From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Dr. Armstrong is back for Beef Quality Assurance training. Armstrong reminds those interested in attending that participants seeking BQA certification must be present for the entire training. Being more than 15 minutes late or leaving early makes you ineligible for certification.

On March 15, U of M Extension is once again offering its Commercial Animal Waste Technician (CAWT) recertification training. The afternoonlong training session begins at 1 p.m. with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Brian Clark presenting licensing, requirements and regulations. At 1:25 p.m. Dairy Herd Improvement Association laboratories

Exhibitors

details best management practices for testing soil and manure. Gary Esselink of Raven Industries will speak on precision agriculture and equipment at 1:45 p.m. Rick Martens from the Minnesota Custom Applicators Association highlights safety considerations for manure gas emissions at 2:40 p.m. At 3:20 p.m., Extension’s Chryseis Modderman gives an overview of manure phosphorus and environmental issues. The day wraps

up with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency updating manure phosphorus regulations at 3:40 p.m.

All of the above sessions will be held on the upper mezzanine of the Four Seasons building.

A grand prize will be given away each of the three days. On March 14 a lucky attendee can win a Husqvarna leaf blower bundle, on March 15, a Husqvarna chain saw bundle, and on March 16 a Husqvarna string trimmer bundle. Drawings will be held daily at 3:30 p.m.

Also returning this year is the Minnesota FFA Foundation silent auction. Bids will be taken over the three days.

Parking and admission to the show is free. Show hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 14 and 15, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 16.

For more information, visit www.tradexpos.com; or contact Dan Slowinski at 800-347-5225, via email at dan@ tradexpos.com.

This article was submitted by Tradexpos. v

North American Farm & Power Show exhibitors

North American Farm & Power Show exhibitors

Lime added to manure can reduce odors, pathogens

be killed within 30 days. Using anaerobic digesters can accelerate the destruction of pathogens.

High temperatures combined with aeration also kills most pathogens. Composting is a good way to do this. A compost pile consists of organic material such as manure, bedding, and dead livestock. Temperatures within a compost pile can reach 150 F. We recommend two cycles of temperatures of at least 131 F to kill pathogens. Aeration and uniform heat distribution are mandatory for the breakdown of a compost pile into dark, soil-like material.

Lime added to manure can reduce pathogens and odors, and when it is land-applied, it also reduces soil acidification. Ozone destroys bacteria, though the high organic matter content in manure can reduce its effectiveness. Ultraviolet (UV) light and Pasteurization at 158 F for 30 minutes are also effective at killing most pathogens. Chlorine disinfects drinking water, but should not be applied directly to manure. Because manure has high organic matter content, it will be generally ineffective and can produce toxic and carcinogenic byproducts.

Land application of manure

The main concern with pathogens at application is runoff and loss through tile drainage. People are at the greatest risk for pathogen infection when manure runoff reaches resources like waterways or food crops.

Pathogen concentrations decrease when exposed to UV light and drying. Since that naturally occurs when manure is surface applied, delaying manure incorporation will reduce pathogen numbers. However, waiting to incorporate manure can have adverse environmental effects as nitrogen is lost to the atmosphere and runoff risk is increased. Flies and vermin are also more likely to pick up and carry pathogens from manure that is left on the

surface. Therefore, the recommended method is to incorporate manure soon after application.

To further reduce manure runoff, follow proper application methods to avoid over-application. Test soil and manure for nutrient content to determine how much manure to apply. Calibrate equipment carefully for the intended rate. Avoid applying manure onto frozen ground where it cannot be incorporated.

Reducing pathogens in manure is important for livestock operations of all sizes, and the practices listed above will help do that. Before using each management practice, take into consideration the costs and benefits. Will these practices be economical? Will the social and environmental cost be too high if management action is not taken? All in all, reduction of pathogens at the agronomic level helps protect the health of people everywhere.

Runoff risk advisory forecast

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has teamed up with the National Weather Service to

design a tool which helps farmers and commercial applicators determine the best time to apply manure. The Runoff Risk Advisory Forecast tool uses past and predicted National Weather Service weather data like precipitation, temperature and snow melt.

It predicts the likelihood that applied manure will run off fields in daily, next day, and 72-hour increments. Farmers and commercial applicators use an interactive map to locate their field and find the forecasted risk. MDA offers a sign-up for Runoff Risk Alerts at https://public.govdelivery.com/ accounts/MNMDA/subscriber/new?qsp=MNMDA_3. Alerts will be sent via email or text when conditions are likely for a runoff event.

Content of this article courtesy of Melissa Wilson, wilso984@umn.edu and Chryseis Modderman, cmodderm@umn.edu , U of M Extension Manure Management team. Diane DeWitte can be reached at stouf002@umn.edu. v

Grants strengthen food supply chain

ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for a new grant program to help strengthen Minnesota’s food supply chain.

The Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Grant Program offers competitive grants for Minnesota businesses and organizations operating middle-ofthe-food-supply-chain activities that support local agricultural products.

Grants will fund projects that expand capacity and infrastructure for the aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transportation, wholesaling, or distribution of locally and regionally produced food intended for human consumption, including specialty

crops, dairy, grains, aquaculture, and other food products (except meat and poultry, as they are funded through other programs). A 50 percent match of the total project cost is required.

Applications must be received by 4 p.m. on April 3, 2024. Visit the MDA’s Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Grant web page at https://www.mda. state.mn.us/business-dev-loans-grants/resilientfood-systems-infrastructure-rfsi-grant for full program and application details, as well as technical assistance for developing grant proposals.

This article was submitted by University of Minnesota Extension. v

Grain Angles Lower prices boost ethanol, livestock and alternatives

On Feb. 15 and 16 of this year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture hosted its annual Agricultural Outlook Forum and shared their initial insights on the acreage projected for corn, soybeans and other commodities grown in the United States.

U.S. producers are expected to plant nearly 4 percent less corn in 2024, with a projection of 91 million acres compared to last year’s 94.6 million acres. The stocks-to-use ratio is set to increase to 17.20 percent — primarily due to last year’s record corn yield and significant acreage. The season’s average price for 2024 is now estimated at $4.40 per bushel.

GLENN WACHTLER Financial OFFicer cOmpeer Financial

In comparison, soybeans supplies have been relatively tighter in recent years, leading to a more favorable relative price compared to corn, based on historical ratios. The latest USDA outlook forecasts producers planting approximately 4.5 percent more acres of soybeans in 2024, reaching a projection of 87.5 million acres compared to 83.6 million acres last year. Assuming a 52-bushel trendline yield, stocks-to-use would be around 9.9 percent, with a projected season average price of $11.20 per bushel.

Cash Grain Markets

Redwood

Grain prices are effective cash close on Feb. 27. *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.

The Outlook Forum data is unsurprising, as the market has adjusting to larger ending stocks-to-use ratios for both crops since confirming that the 2023 yields were not significantly impacted by the drought as feared. Many producers are still awaiting a “sellable rally” in corn prices, as weather conditions and declining prices have resulted in fewer corn sales than desired.

The USDA projects substantial demand for corn and soybeans in 2024, with feed and crush leading the way and ethanol providing a reliable base for corn usage. Export efforts will need to be sustained to meet the USDA’s projections, potentially helping trim excess bushels from the countryside.

While it may seem that lower grain prices will worsen the situation for the crop producers, it’s important to look beyond the immediate challenges

Help for organic transition

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service can help farmers transition to organic through the Organic Transition Initiative.

The new organic management standard provides the flexibility to get the assistance and education such as attending workshops or requesting help from experts or mentors.

It supports conservation activities and practices required for organic certification and may provide foregone income reimbursement for dips in production during the transition period.

The National Organic Standards support composting, outdoor access for livestock, and organic nutrient man-

agement which are all covered through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program under the new standard.

Flexible education and training activities can include field days, working alongside organic experts and more.

Eligible producers include farmers, ranchers, forest landowners, and other producers beginning or in the process of transitioning to organic certification.

Apply through NRCS at a local USDA Service Center.

More information can be found at www.farmers.gov/.

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

and consider who stands to benefit from these lower prices and larger supplies.

Lower prices will support industries that process corn and soybeans and enable users of these products to improve their balance sheets. This includes ethanol producers, livestock operations, crush plants, struggling economies in other countries and the developing alternative fuels sector.

Ethanol facilities turned profitable in 2023 after years of absorbing higher corn and natural gas prices, contributing to the industry’s stability. Producers hope lower corn prices will facilitate the year-round availability of E-15 blended gasoline in Midwest states, offering a cost-effective, locally-available product. Midwest corn producers believe using a homegrown product can displace oil from regions misaligned with the nation’s best interests.

Lower corn and soybean prices will ease the burden on pork producers, providing relief in an industry dealing with low prices. Poultry growers facing challenges from avian flu can benefit from lower corn and soybean prices, while the cattle industry may see an uptick in beef supplies with the potential for lower corn prices.

Lower prices also support the development of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel industries, offering a newer source of demand for corn and soybeans. These industries are driven by the endusers seeking greener and reliable fuel sources.

As we navigate the complexities of the agricultural economy in 2024, it is essential to recognize that while lower grain prices present challenges, they also open avenues for growth and stability in diverse sectors dependent on corn and soybeans.

Compeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural communities. The $30.4 billion organization provides loans, leases, risk management and other financial services throughout 144 counties in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin. v

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Hoof action promotes seeding

was amazed. I cannot believe how clean and how bare they get it,” she stated.

GRAMS PARK, from pg. 9 drive diversity because it helps with establishing new generations of native plants. “Their hoof action creates divots or openings in the thatch that open up the mineral soil below so that when native prairie plants produce seed, the seed drops — there’s that seed to soil contact.”

Hugo explained that native prairie is very slow to establish. “There’s a little rhyme that I’ve used for many years that just goes, ‘The first year they sleep, the second year they creep, and the third year they leap.’”

This summer, mechanical cuttings will take place. “We don’t really want to bring back grazing this summer, because the hoof action could dislodge young prairie plants that don’t have their root stems well enough developed to bounce back from that,” Hugo explained.

In August, they will add live plant material to fill in species gaps including prairiecord grass, new england aster, joe pye weed, and monarda.

Going forward, Hugo stated they’ll mix up the disturbance methods and vary the timing. A prescribed burn is expected in 2026, and two or three years later, they plan to bring back grazers.

Hugo explained grazing will help

Now that they’ve gained some experience with grazers, Hugo noted they may also utilize them for other projects. “We’re considering the use of goats in a couple of oak savanna restorations where it’s getting harder to get prescribed fire on the units because of the infrastructure around the park. The prescription requirements for that burn have gotten so strict and narrow that it’s almost impossible to get the right weather.”

Hugo also added they may utilize goats at one of their parks near the Mississippi River and I-94 to knock back the reflush of buckthorn.

An added plus of bringing in animals, is how much people enjoy watching them graze. Hugo remarked, “It’s really kind of meditative.” v

Dairy farm numbers down 37.8%

MIELKE, from pg. 8

Packaged fluid sales for the year totaled 42.6 billion pounds, down 1.5 percent from 2022. Conventional product sales totaled 39.8 billion pounds, down 1.6 percent. Organic products, at 2.8 billion pounds, were off 0.3 percent and represented 6.7 percent of total milk sales for the year.

The March Federal order Class I base milk price is $18.80 per hundredweight, up 81 cents from February and 19 cents above March 2023. It equates to $1.62 per gallon, down a penny from a year ago. The three-month Class I average sits at $18.42, down from $20.73 a year ago, and $21.41 in 2022.

“Dairy margins improved modestly over the first half of February as projected feed costs declined to new lows while milk prices were steady to slightly weaker,” writes Margin Watch.

The USDA issued its 2022 Census of Agriculture last week, a report issued every five years that examines the

health of U.S. agriculture. Dairy farms totaled 24,082 in 2022, down from 39,303 or 38.7 percent from the last report released in 2017.

The Feb. 16 Daily Dairy Report stated, “Consolidation has intensified in the U.S. dairy sector as larger farms have housed a larger number of animals than ever before. The census data showed that in 2022, nearly twothirds of U.S. dairy cows were found on farms with more than 1,000 head. Furthermore, about 45 percent of cows were reported to be on farms with more than 2,500 head. In contrast, the percentage of the herd on small farms has declined. In 2022, just 6.5 percent of the national dairy herd was found on farms with less than 100 cows, a decrease from 12.7 percent in 2017 and much lower than the 28.9 percent reported in 2002.

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

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Feed Seed Hay

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Fertilizer & Chemical

Gen Liberty totes, $19.50; Glyphosate 5.4 totes, $14.25; Enlist 1 totes, $46.95; Gen Surestart $45.35; Metolachlor totes, $28.00. All tote prices include free delivery to most areas. Please call or text for any other chemical needs. Phone 612-210-3685

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CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT

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

NEW NH C327/C337/C345 track units ............ On Order

’18 NH L234 425hrs ………....................…….. $53,000

’19 NH L228 725hrs ……….....................…….. $42,000

HAY TOOLS

New Disc Mowers - 107,108,109

New Disc Mower Cond. - 10’, 13’

New Wheel Rakes - 10,12,14

New NH Hay Tools - ON HAND

Kuhn SR112 Rake ……............................... $6,900

NH H6740 disc mower ……….................... $8,500

NH H7230 …………..............................………. $22,500

PLANTERS

JD 7200 12-30 w/LF ………........................…… $15,500

White 6186 16-30 w/ins ………….....……….. $12,500

White 8516 CFS 16030 ………...............…… $39,900

Taking 2024 New Spring Orders

COMBINES

NEW Geringhoff chopping cornhead Call ’18

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

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

Check out THE LAND online www.thelandonline.com

On line Toy Auction

Inspection Date: March 19th, 9:00 am - 5:30 pm

First Lots Start Closing: March 19th, 5:30 pm

Pick-Up Date: March 20th, 9:00 am - 5:30 pm

Mages Land Co. Office 55780 State Hwy 19 Winthrop, MN 55396

Farm Equipment

FOR SALE:

Case IH 235 Magnum, 2764 hrs, SN# RD (RDA 7B) 2 - DRDO5971, 700 monitor, front & rear duals, FWA, auto steer, inside wgts & outside rear wgts, 10 front wgts, quick hitch, 3 PTOs, 4 hyds, left hand reverser, heated seat, light kit & beacon light, serviced & field ready, exc cond. Retiring. FOR SALE:

Case IH 1200 16x30” rows, central fill pivot planter, 230 bu seed tanks, 2 - 250 gal liq fert tanks, w/ squeeze pump & Redball monitor, Schaffert Mfg, 2x2 liq delivery systems, trash whips, rebounders, corn & bean discs, row markers, variable rate capable, low acres, serviced & field ready. Exc cond. 651-387-2085

We buy Salvage Equipment

Parts Available Hammell Equip., Inc. (507)867-4910

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

Tractors: Numerous precision & custom toy tractors from IH, Farmall, Case, JD, Ford, & Tru-Scale tractors, including: IH 856 FWA Precision Tractor; 1989 Limited Edition Case IH 5130 FMD; Case Diesel Case-0-Matic 800 Tractor; Ford Golden Jubilee Precision Tractor; Ford Diesel 6000 Precision Tractor; JD 7020 Diesel Tractor; Oliver 2655 Tractor; Massey-Harris 44; Massey-Harris 55 Diesel Tractor; White 4-210 Field Boss Tractor; 50 States Toy Tractor Sets; Farm Implements: Numerous farm implements including Ertl, Tru Scale, & Cast Iron ext.; Pedal Tractors: Farmall Super M-TA Tractor; Farmall M Tractor; IH Tractor; Farmall Small H Tractor, Repaired; Farmall 806 Tractor; IH Vehicle w/ Dump Gate; Farmall F-20 Tractor w/ Box; Atomic Bomb Push Cart; Inland Tractall H Tractor; IH Tractor; Power Trac 502 Tractor; Farmall 400 Tractor; IH Demonstrator Tractor; Ford TW -20 Tractor; Tractall Tractor, Missing Parts; Antique Tricycle; A.M.F. Tractor Trailer; Tractor Trailer; The Murray Ohio Dumptrac Tractor Trailer; Tonka: Multiple Tonka toys including: 2 Hook Wrecker; Mighty Tonka Crane; Front Loader; 6 & 4 Wheel Road Grader; Excavator Crane; Belly Scraper; Roller Compactor; Bulldozer; Excavator; Collectables: Many tractors including Arcade, Lee, Ertl, Hubley, & Tootsie, & McCormick Deering Threshing Machine; Ford Model T Whiskey Decanter; IH Pacesetter Decanter; Multiple Red Wing Coin banks, bowls, & jugs; puzzles & games; K enneth & Laurice K as tner Own ers

Listing Auctioneer: Joe Wersal ~ 507-220-5561

Matt Mages Lic 52-22-018

Terms: 10% Buyers Premium. More info, terms, & pictures online.

magesland.com

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

Tillage Equip

FOR SALE: IH 475 and 480 20’ tandem disks, manual fold, always shedded, nice condition, $2,500/each.

507-227-2602

Planting Equip

FOR SALE: JD MaxEmerge 2 conservation planter, 8R30” dry fertilizer, insecticide, trash whippers, no-till vacuum, $12,025. 507-533-4620

Spraying Equip

FOR SALE: 1994 Tyler Patriot sprayer, Has 80’ boom, 750 gal tank w/ 20” nozzle spacing. Runs and sprays as it should, has been well taken care of. $22,000. Call Jim at 507-840-0483 Jackson MN

Spraying Equip

FOR SALE: 2013 JD self propelled sprayer, 120’ boom, 1200 gallon tank, GreenStar 3000 globe, 2630 monitor w/ auto guidance, auto swath control & boom track pro. 320-444-7411

Hay & Forage Equipment

FOR SALE: JD 1209 haybine, $1,800. 612-380-4005

Wanted

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

WANTED TO BUY: Wilrich PT2200 or JD 1780 hyd front folding 16x22 planter, prefer F.P.U. units as an umbrella. 320-815-3495

Livestock

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

Livestock

FOR SALE: Black Angus cross stock cows. $2,200 each or Best Offer.

320-492-8527

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

Your ad could be here!

507-345-4523

Cattle

FOR SALE: Registered Polled Hereford yearling bulls for sale. Have had all shots, poured and semen tested. Halter broke. Fantastic growth E.P.Ds. Will deliver. Klages Herefords. Ortonville MN. 320-273-2163 (H) 605-880-0521(C)

ON G RO UP P RE SE NT S

HM AUCTION GROUP PRESENTS ONLINE ONLY SPRING AREA FARMERS CONSIGNMENT AUCTION

JD W235 Windrower, Manure, Haying & Livestock Equipment

Auction Location: Maring Auction Lot, HWY 56 North, Kenyon, MN

Bidding Opens: Monday, March 4, 2024 at 8:00 a.m.

BIDDING STARTS CLOSING:

Wednesday, March 13, 2024 • 10:00 a.m.

COMPLETE DETAILS & BIDDING AT:

4WD, MFWD Tractors & AMS Equipment

JD 4960 MFWD, 6,227 Hrs, Power Shift, PTO, 3pt., 3 Hyd., Weights; CIH 9280 4WD, 3pt., 1000PTO, 855 Cummins, 12sp Power Shift; AC 6060 Dsl, 3pt., Open Station; 1943 Farmall H, Restored; (3) JD 2630 Screens, AutoTrac SF2 & Other Activations; (5) JD 6000 & 3000 Globes, SF1/SF2

Tillage & Planting Equipment

2012 Kinze 3700 Center Fill 24R30”, Row Shuttoffs, Precision Corn, Kinze Bean, Yetter Twister Closing Wheels, Row Cleaners, AgLeader Monitor, Clean; Convey-All WT290 Tender, Tarp, Scale, Tandem Axle Trl; JD 960 FC, 32’, Harrow, 200 Acres On Rebuild; CIH Crumbler 52’, Light Kit, Low Acres; CIH Tiger Mate II FC, 53.5’, Harrow; JD 235 Tandem Disc, 28’; JD 714 Chisel Plow, 11 Shank; CIH 4800 FC, 24’, Harrow; (2) CIH 5300 Grain Drills, Squadron Hitch, 12’ x 7.5”; 370 Bu. Gravity

‘14 JD W235 Windrower w/’15 JD 500R 16’ Discbine Head, 1806 Engine Hrs, 1285 Cutting Hrs, JD Link Ready, Clean; Puck 34’ Manure Bar, Krohne Flow Meter, 12 Shank, 6” Pipe, Dietrich Series 70, Auto Reset, Mounted On CIH 9280; (3) Meyers 4118 Forage Chopper Boxes, Rear Unload, 15T Running Gear; Balzer 4800 Tank, Vacuum, Hyd. Drive; Spread-All TR22-T 20’ Apron Box Spreader, Slop Gate, Poly; Hagedorn 216 Spreader, Poly, Double Beater; JD 955 Discbine, Center Pivot, 14.5’; JD 430 Round Baler, Monitor, 4x5; NH 492 Haybine, 9’ Cut; JD 630A Forage Harvester Hay Head; Vermeer R23A Twin Hay Rake; Automatic Earcorn Mill, w/Blower, Hyd. Drive

Grain Vac, Augers, Spraying

Rem VRX Grain Vac, 282 Hrs; Westfield MK130-71 Plus Swing Hopper Auger; Top Air TA1200, 80’, 46” Rubber, Hyd Pump; L&D 750 Gal. Sprayer, 60’, Hyd. Pump, Raven Controller

2021 Ford F150, Chevy Pickup, Vehicles, ATV

‘21 Ford F150 Roush Edition Pickup, 4WD, Crew Cab, Heated Leather, 5.0L

V8, 49,600 Miles, Clean; ‘11 Chevy

2500 HD, 4x4, 223,725 Miles, 6.0L; “13 Chevy Equinox, 36,750 Miles, Clean; ‘04 Ford F150, 171,111 Miles, 5.4L; ‘04 Ford Expedition, 4WD, 5.4L, 205,000 Miles; ‘26 Ford Model T Roadster; ‘57 Ford Fairlane, 4 Door, Parts Car; 2015 Polaris 90 ATV, Clean

200+ Lots of Farm Support Equipment, Attachments & Tools

INSPECTION DATES:

Semi’s, Fertilizer & Straight Trucks, Dump Truck, Trailers

HMAUCTION COM

Wagon Seed Tender, Air System Delivery; JD 1100 3pt. FC, 21.5’; Rite Way W1200 Rock Rake; Brillion PT-158 Culti-Packer, 14’; Kewanee 12R30” Row Crop Cultivator, 3pt.; Wilmar 800 Fertilizer Spreader, Tandem Axle; WilRich 3400 FC, 30’; JD 7000 Plot Planter, 2R30”

‘89 Peterbilt 379 Day Cab, 400 Cummins, 9sp, 529,000 Miles, Air Ride; ‘04 Freightliner Century, Wilmar 16T Rear Unload Fertilizer Tender, Twin Screw, 10sp; ‘02 Wilson Grain Trl, 42’x66”x96”, Ag Hopper, Spring Ride; ‘05 Freightliner, Small Sleeper, 14L Detroit, 10sp, 671,544 Miles; ‘03 Volvo Sleeper Semi, D12 Motor, 13 Speed, 761,864 Miles; ‘89 Volvo Short Sleeper, 350 Cummins, 9sp, 829,513 Miles; ‘87 Ford 9000 Dump Truck, 3406 Cat, 10Sp LL, 16’ Box & Hoist, 347,341 Miles; ‘99 Sterling Straight Truck, Twin Screw, 3406 Cat, 8sp; ‘91 IH 2574 Straight Truck, Twin Screw, Cummins Dsl, 8sp; ‘88 Transcraft 53’ Double Drop Deck Semi Trailer, Dovetail, Ramps; ‘01 Tow Master Flatbed Trailer TO-20, Dovetail, Tandem Duals

To

Mail to: The Land Classifieds, 418 South Second St., Mankato,

Fax to: 507-345-1027

Email: theland@TheLandOnline.com

Online at: www.thelandonline.com

DEADLINE: 7 days prior to publication.

• Reach over 150,000 readers

• Start your ad in The Land

• Add more insertions

• Get more coverage

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

FOR SALE: Firestone 18.446 radial all traction, 23 degrees, 45% treads, asking $200 each. 507-227-2602

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

Sales & Service New & Used

For your irrigation needs 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073

*



The ad prices listed are based on a basic classified line ad of 25 words or less. Ads running longer than 25 words will incur an added charge.

Equipment

 Grain Handling Equipment

 Livestock Equipment

 Wanted

 Free & Give Away

 Livestock

 Poultry

 Dairy

 Cattle

 Swine

 Sheep

EXTENDED COVERAGE -

FARM NEWS (FN) - Serving farmers in Northwest Iowa, 8,400 circ.

THE COUNTRY TODAY (CT)Serving farmers in Wisconsin, 7,902 circ.

THE FREE PRESS (FP)Serving south central Minnesota, 11,157 circ.

STANDOUT OPTIONS

 Bold  Italic  Underline

 Web/E-mail links

 Goats

 Horses & Tack

 Exotic Animals

 Pets & Supplies

 Cars & Pickups

 Industrial & Construction

 Trucks & Trailers

 Recreational Vehicles

 Miscellaneous

NOTE: Ad will be placed in the appropriate category if not marked.

STANDOUT OPTIONS (THE LAND only) $2.00 per run: =

*  Photo  Border (The Land only) $10.00 each, per edition. =

This is NOT for businesses. Please call The Land to place line ads.

Name

TOTAL = _______________________

-

April 17, 2024

58.29 ± Acres Farmland

Adjacent to Gopher Hills Golf Course Includes Two Building Rights Douglas Township, Dakota County, MN For property brochures, contact Hertz at 507-345-LAND (5263) WWW.HERTZ.AG

151 St. Andrews Court #1310, Mankato MN 56001

LANDFORSALEBYOWNER

155barefarmlandforsale bysealedbid.

2020

Trans,4,141hrs.,PremiumPkg,fullyweighted,NEWRubber, fullduals –2012JohnDeere9510R4WD Tractor,1-ownerw/PitBull16’blade,5,418hrs.,18/6Pwr.Shift,Premium Pkg,fullyweighted,goodrubber –2002JohnDeere91204WD Tractor,5,424hrs.,18/6Pwr.Shift,likenewrubber 520/85R42,sharp –2007JohnDeere6430PremiumMFWD Tractorw/673Loader,1,622hrs.,AutoQuadPlus Lefthandreverser24/24,CLEAN –2000JohnDeere4700 TractorPartiallySynchro Trans,lefthandreverserw/ creeper,4WD –CaseIH7220MFWD Tractor18/4Pwr.Shift,rearduals –CaseIH5288 Tractor –IHFarmall1566 Tractor –JohnDeere3010N.F.gas Tractor –IH584 Tractorw/loader –JohnDeere ATractor –IHFarmall HTractor –2014JohnDeere179512-RowMaxEmerge5Planterw/splitroww/30”/15”,Liq.Fert. –JohnDeere17508-Row MaxEmergeXPPlanter,Liq.Fert.,AMVACSmartbox –JohnDeere17506-RowConservationMaxEmergePlus Planter,DryFert &otherplanters –Krause550030’Drill –IH5100SoybeanSpecial –Fertilizer Wagons –andso muchmore!

TILLAGE –MANUREHANDLING –SKIDLOADERS

NE1/4section 3Hayfield Township,DodgeCounty,MN. 150+/-tillableacres,pattern tiledevery70', 4yearaverage cornoncornyield -231bu/acre, 3soiltypes,MNCPIof97.88,IowaCSR2of 89.95

Contactforinformational packet: PaulMoenning,507-923-5717 MarkMoenning,507-421-5952

Bidsdueby4:30 P. M. March 11,2024 to Weber,Leth &WoessnerLawOffice 38 WestMainStreet,DodgeCenter,MN

2021JohnDeere273014’7-ShankCombinationRipper,7”Laserripptsnew,Tru-Set,knifeedgebasket,floattires, lessthan1000acresMINT –Landoll2110-099-ShankDiscChisel,springtoothharrow –2021GEAProManure 7300Gal.tripleaxleLiquidManure Tankw/ Verticleor TillageRearinjectorbars –2015Houle52’x8”LagoonManure Pumpw/Stabilizerwheels –Meyer7500 V-ForceSpreader –Knight8124SlingerSpreader –JohnDeere712Chisel plow –2003BobcatS250Skid Turbo,HiFlow,2-spd,ONLY1,736hrs.,2016KubotaSVL95-2S TrackSkid3,600 hrs. –and somuchmore!

SKIDDER –TRUCKS –MORE TimberJack240Skidderw/bladerearwinch –’02International9200iSemiw/cumminsM11engine,daycab,fresh DOT,858k–’97MackE7350 Truck1-owner,PTO &WetKit,tri-axles,8spd –2021Chevrolet TrailBossCrewCab w/6.2LONLY39k miles –2010FordF650FlatBed Truck –2022Kaufman40’Gooseneck Trailer,38kGVW, NEW –New Holland316Discbine –NewHollandH7450MowMaxDiscbine –Automatic1800RollerMill –’21Polaris Ranger –somuchmoretoonumeroustomention!GotoWEBSITEforfulllisting!

ON G RO UP P RE SE NT S

HM AUCTION GROUP PRESENTS LIVE & ONLINE RETIREMENT AUCTION

(2)Freightliner Day Cab Semi’s, Grain Truck, Hopper Trailers

Auction Location: 24141 440th Ave., Delevan, MN 56023

Directions: From Delevan, MN take Co. Rd 13 North to 240th Street, then East on 240th Street to 440th Ave, North on 440th Ave. Watch For Auction Signs.

Thursday, March 21, 2024 • 10:00 a.m.

FOR COMPLETE DETAILS & BIDDING GO TO:

WWW.HMAUCTION.COM

INSPECTION DATES:

March 15th Thru Auction Date From 9:00am to 5:00pm

JD 9430T & 8320 MFWD Tractors & Displays

‘08 JD 9430T, 3321 Actual Hrs, 18 Sp. PS, Green Star Ready, 4 Hyd., Wide Swing Draw Bar, Weighted Rock Box 7 Slab Weights, 36" Tracks; ‘04 JD 8320 MFWD, 3781 Actual Hrs, 16 Sp. PS, Green Star Ready, 18.4x46 Duals, 6 Hyd., Power Beyond, Quick Hitch, 1000PTO, Wheel Weights, Weighted Rock Box; (2) JD 2630 Displays, AutoTrac SF1; JD StarFire 3000 Globe

JD 9670 STS, 608C & 630F Heads

‘08 JD 9670 STS 2WD, Bullet Rotor, 2832 Engine Hrs, 2045 Sep. Hrs, 520/85R42 Duals, Mauer Bin Topper, JD ATU 200 Steering Unit, Yearly Inspection w/Paperwork; ‘14 JD 608C StalkMaster Chopping Head, 8R30", Header Height, Row Sensors, Stalk Stompers, Dual PTO, SP Hookup; ‘08 JD 630F HydraFlex Head, Full Finger Auger, SP Hookup; Quick Fit 30' Head Cart

JD 1770NT, Seed Tender, Sprayer, Semi Tender Trailer

JD 1770NT CCS, 16R30", Individual Row Shut Offs, Pneumatic Down Presser, Row Cleaners, Corn & Bean Plates ; Hitch Doc SC4400 4 Box Seed Tender, DigiStar GT400 Scale, Power Unit, Talc Attachment; Century HD1000 Pull Type Sprayer, 1000 Gal., 60' Booms, Monitor, 540PTO, 13.6x38; ‘14 Jet Step Deck Semi Trl Water Tender, 45', Spread Axle, Air Ride, 1500 & 2300 Gal. Tanks, Inductor, Power Unit, Hose Reel, Good Condition

Case IH & JD Tillage Equipment

CIH Tiger Mate 200 FC, 45', 2 Bar Harrow, Rolling Basket, 7.5" Sweeps, R17.5 HD Tires, Gauge Wheels; ‘16 CIH 875 Ecolo-Tiger Ripper, 9 Shank, 24” Spacings, Double Disc Front, Rolling Basket; JD 610 Chisel Plow, 24.5', 25 Shank; Kewanee 1010 Disk, 18.5', Flat Fold; Balzer 1500 Stalk Chopper, 15', 1000PTO

Terms:Cash, Check, Credit Card. All Sales Are Final, All Sales AS-IS, Review WebsiteFor Online Bidding Terms.

‘14 & ’12 Freightliner Cascadia Day Cab Semi’s, Detroit DD15, 598,111 & 526,311 Miles, 10 Sp., Dual Fuel Tanks, Clean; ‘99 Freightliner FL112 Grain Truck, 20' Crysteel Box & Hoist, 57" Sides, Twin Screw, Tarp, Cat C10, 10 Sp., 46,900 Miles Showing; ‘11 Stoughton Hopper Grain Trl, 40'x66"x96", Air Ride, Electric Tarp, 22.5, Front & Rear Ladders; ‘04 Wilson PaceSetter Hopper Grain Trl, 42'x66"x96", Electric Tarp, Air Ride, 22.5, Front & Rear Ladders

Ford TW-20, TW-10 & 3000 Tractors

‘81 Ford TW-20 2WD, 6981 Hrs, Dual Power Trans., 2 Hyd., 540PTO, 480/80R38 w/Axle Duals, Weights; ‘79 Ford TW-10 2WD, 6242 Hrs, Dual Power Trans., 2 Hyd., 540PTO, 18.4x38, Suitcase Weights; Ford 3000 Gas, 13.6x38, 3pt., 540PTO, Power Steering

Deluxe Grain Dryer, Holding Bin

Located At 10916 576th Ave, Mapleton, MN

Deluxe DP5030 Grain Dryer 20', LP Gas, Continuous Flow, Buyer Has Until August 1st; Behlen 3500 Bushel Wet Holding Bin, Buyer Has Until August 1st

Brent Grain Cart, Augers, Seed Wagon

Brent 678 Grain Cart, 1000PTO, Tarp, Corner Auger, (2) Cameras w/Displays, Hyd. Spout Adjust; Westfield MK100-61 Swing Hopper Auger, Hyd. Lift, 540PTO; Westfield WR100-41 Auger, 540PTO; Pit Express Drive Over Pit, 3 Wheel Transport, Hyd. Lift, For Connecting To Swing Hopper Augers; Mayrath Swing Hopper Auger, 10"x62'; Mayrath 6"x45' Auger, 5HP; Parker 2500 Gravity Wagon, Sudenga 13' Hyd. Brush Auger, Power Unit, 8T Gear

Farm Machinery, Fuel Barrels, Stationary Mixer

Lorenz 8' Double Auger Snow Blower, Hyd. Spout; Bison NVH240 Blade, Hyd. Angle, 8'; Wooden Barge Box, 10’ w/Hoist; 11’x10” Lift Pump; (2) 500 Gal. Fuel Tanks w/Pump; 1000 Gal. Fuel Tank w/Pump; Sprout Waldron 1 Ton Double Ribbon Stationary Mixer, 10 HP Motor, Weigh-Tronix Scale; Stationary Hammer Mixer Mill, 10HP Motor; 3 & 2 Ton Livestock Holding Bin

WWW.HMAUCTION.COM

MARING AUCTION, LLC.

PO Box 37, Kenyon, MN 55946 507-789-5421 • 800-801-4502

Matt Maring Lic# 25-28

Kevin Maring Lic# 25-70

Adam Engen Lic# 25-93

HAMILTON AUCTION CO. 130 State Highway 16 Dexter, MN 55926 • 507-584-0133

Andrew Hamilton Lic# 50-128

Cell: 507-438-6693

Bill Hilton • 507-279-9600

AKC REG COCKER SPANIEL PUPS!

50 PERCENT OFF! 2 Rescues available $300. Sweet Adorable Pets! Shots. 920563-3410 mornings. (mcn)

WRIGHTZ AUCTION CO. “Your Locally Owned, Full-Service Auction Company” MACHINERY CONSIGNMENT SALE, MONDAY, MARCH 4, 2024 9 A.M. CALL TO CONSIGN TODAY! 641-398-2218. Hwy 218, Floyd, IA. www.wrightzauctionco. com (mcn)

CASH FOR CARS! We buy all cars! Junk, high-end, totaled – it doesn’t matter! Get free towing and same day cash! NEWER MODELS too! Call 1-877-9782510. (mcn)

GOT AN UNWANTED CAR???

DONATE IT TO PATRIOTIC HEARTS. Fast free pick up. All 50 States. Patriotic Hearts’ programs help veterans find work or start their own business. Call 24/7: 844913-2887. (mcn)

Get your deduction ahead of the yearend! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous year-end tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855977-7030 today! (mcn)

Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-888-429-2331 today! (mcn)

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USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 855-846-4036. (mcn)

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Again! Our home warranty covers ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. We stand by our service and if we can’t fix it, we’ll replace it! Pick the plan that fits your budget! Call: 1-877-743-7971(mcn)

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?

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WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION: A small amount of water can lead to major damage and mold growth in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home’s value! Call 24/7: 1-888-750-5574. Have zip code of service location ready when you call! (mcn)

LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America’s Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 877-3270795. (mcn)

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

World of wool

Just beyond the large sign showing a sheep wearing a bowtie is St. Peter Woolen Mill’s retail shop. And past that shop is where years of wool processing has taken place.

In business since 1867, St. Peter Woolen Mill offers custom wool processing services, products through their own Nature’s Comfort brand, as well as a wholesale option. They supply about 30 stores throughout the country with mattress toppers, pillows and comforters.

The Brinker family legacy started in 1912 when Margaret and John C. Brinker began their ownership of the mill. Pat Johnson is part of the fourth generation to have had ownership of the mill, and explained how the custom process works. “People can bring us their own wool from their sheep or from a used comforter that the cover is falling off of.”

The bags of wool that are brought in are each labeled and get processed individually. “We wash it, re-card it, which fluffs it up like new again, and then we can do custom coverings and custom sizes,” Johnson stated.

The processing area has equipment designated for each step. Johnson stated the mill was originally across the alley, and a portion of the current processing area operated as a hatchery, which was also ran by Johnson’s father. When he dissolved the hatchery, the mill was moved over to the current location.

For the mill’s other services, Johnson stated she buys 10,000 pounds of wool at a time — all mostly midwestern wools — which arrives in big bales, cleaned and to their requested specifications.

While different sheep breeds may provide better wool options for clothing or carpet, Johnson stated when it comes to batting, she has a preference for breeds such as the suffolks, hamps, and dorsets. “The meat breeds are actually the best,” she explained. “They have more of a medium grade of wool. We don’t want it real fine like the merino and the rambouillet, because it doesn’t have enough loft to it.”

After the carding is complete in the processing area, batts are taken upstairs to get covered and become a finished product. Johnson explained items are inspected a final time before being sewn closed. Packaging is also completed on site.

St. Peter, Minn.

Along with the processing facility, St. Peter Woolen Mill’s retail store specializes in wool items, as well as quilting and spinning supplies. It is located at 101 W. Broadway Ave in St. Peter, Minn. Tours are available for groups by making an appointment ahead of time.

Besides detailing its products and history, the Woolen Mill’s website, https://woolenmill.com/ , lists environmental and health benefits of wool. Because wool can be re-processed, it can last for generations. The website also states wool is mold and mildew resistant, temperature regulating, and non-toxic, and wool bedding can be beneficial to those with such conditions as allergies, asthma and arthritis. v

Thursday

Daily Seminar Schedule

Thursday, March 14th

10:00am to 11:30am Farm Business Succession Planning

Leah R. Gilbert Gilbert Legal PLLC

Sponsored by Linder Farm Network

1:00pm to 4:00pm Managing beef cattle: Building the foundation for cattle health and your farm

Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Training

Dr, Joe Armstrong, DVM, UMN Extension Educator

Friday, March 15th

10:00 am to 11:30am Money for Metal: Advancing soil health with grants for machinery.

Building soil health is key to facilitating resiliency across working lands in the face of a changing climate. However, soil health practices typically require specialized, expensive equipment that many producers do not own. To meet this challenge, in 2022 the Minnesota Legislature established the Soil Health Financial Assistance Program at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. This program provides grants to individual producers, groups of producers, and local government units for the purchase of soil health equipment. Th e program was piloted in 2022 with a $500,000 appropriation resulting in 16 grants to 15 producers and one Soil and Water Conservation Dist rict, though the total request of funding from applicants was $6.5 million, 13 times the funding available. The program has since received additional funding from the Legislature, and another Request for Proposals for a total of $2.375 million was released in fall 2023, with app lications still exceeding 3½ times the available funding. Learn about this first in the nation program, lessons learned, and the partnerships a nd advocacy work that made it all happen.

1:00pm to 4:20pm

Commercial Animal Waste Technician (CAWT) Recertification

The U of M Extension is putting on this recertification training which will cover; licensing, rules, regulations, action requ ired due to a spill or discharge, runoff advisory forecast, characteristics of manure, and safety.