Rural life 2015

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Rural Life June 10 - 12, 2015


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VALLEY RURAL LIFE

Wednesday, June 10-Friday, June 12, 2015

IRRIGATION BOOM DNR readies stiff fines for farmers caught illegally pumping water By MARK STEIL • MINNESOTA PUBLIC RADIO NEWS Hoping to protect Minnesota’s groundwater sup- unpermitted irrigators could upset the balance since plies amid an irrigation boom, state officials this their take is unknown. season will have new power to levy heavy fines on Before last year’s law change, the DNR had to farmers pumping water illegally. take a violation to court as a criminal matter. With Last year, the Legislature authorized the Min- this new law, the agency can issue civil penalties nesota Department of Natural Resources to fine on its own. State officials say the stiff fines will motivate ilviolators as much as $20,000 without having to go to court. The agency begins enforcement in June. legal irrigators to end the practice. It’s not clear how The effort is part of the state’s goal to ramp up many will be fined under the new system. management of Minnesota’s ground water, and ir“These people were using a public resource to rigation is a primary focus. A farmer needs a permit make money, and the advantage to them was so great to pump more than 10,000 gallons a day or 1 million that they just paid the fine,” said Julie Ekman, the gallons a year. Many irrigators trigger the require- DNR’s water resources and conservation manager. ment within an hour of operation. The cost, she added, “wasn’t enough to induce them So many farmers are irrigating now that the to come into compliance.” The DNR believes that once word gets around, DNR fears that in some parts of the state irrigation most farmers will voluntarily register their unperdemand is more than what aquifers can supply. • More: Unchecked irrigation threatens to sap mitted wells. There’s no doubt that for many farmers, Minnesota groundwater irrigation is crucial. Farmers with permits are required to report how With an irrigation rig, a farmer can make it rain An irrigator waters potato plants near Park Rapids on Aug. 1, 2014. A farmer needs a permit to much they pump each year. The DNR can restrict whenever crops need it. Hundreds of Minnesota pump more than 10,000 gallons a day or 1 million gallons a year. (Dan Gunderson/MPR News irrigation if there’s too much water being taken. But See IRRIGATION on 3 2014)

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Wednesday, June 10-Friday, June 12, 2015

VALLEY RURAL LIFE

IRRIGATION From PAGE 2

farmers are finding the resulting boost in harvests and revenue more than justifies the cost. “I don’t think I’d be farming without the benefit of irrigation,” said Alan Peterson, president of the Irrigators Association of Minnesota, which supports the tougher penalties for illegal pumping. Irrigation has proved most helpful on the state’s sandy soils in central Minnesota, he added. Even though an irrigation rig’s cost can reach into six figures, the financial rewards have led to a sharp increase in the practice. Last year the number of irrigation permits issued in the state increased by about 40 percent over the previous year. Peterson says in drought years when most fields struggle to produce anything, irrigated land can still push up bumper crops. The difference can be over $100,000 in revenue in a single season. An irrigator not only can pay for itself quickly, it can fatten a farmer’s bottom line for years. But Peterson acknowledges some farmers are pumping groundwater for irrigation illegally. Just how many farmers do that is unknown.

An MPR News investigation last year found that about a third of the roughly 1,200 irrigation wells drilled between 2008 and 2012 either lacked a permit, or went a substantial period of time, sometimes years, without one. The DNR has estimated the number at between 2 and 10 percent of the state’s irrigators. A Freshwater Society report put the number at more than 25 percent. Whatever the number, the new, higher penalties should bring the agency closer to its goal of making sure that every irrigator has a permit, Ekman said. The June enforcement start is later than originally planned. The DNR said it needed time to develop a graduated fine structure that took into account the severity of violations and could survive a court challenge. It would be worse to set up an unfair system that a court overturns later, said Steve Woods, executive director of the nonprofit Freshwater Society who worked for the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources. “Nobody wants these water rustlers to get away with poaching Minnesota’s water,” he said.

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PAGE 4

VALLEY RURAL LIFE

Wednesday, June 10-Friday, June 12, 2015

DNR researchers hope iFish app nets loads of data By ELIZABETH DUNBAR

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is turning to smartphones to help determine what kind of fish anglers are catching in Minnesota Lakes. For decades, DNR researchers have relied on time-consuming and expensive surveys to compile that information. But they are rethinking that approach in favor of the nearly ubiquitous device that anglers, much like everyone else, have come to rely on. This year, the DNR is working with University of Minnesota researchers to see if anglers could submit data on their catch via a smartphone app. The free app, iFish Minnesota, helps anglers log what they’re catching and where. The DNR wants to gauge fishing pressure — how fishing affects lakes — and ensure fish populations can reproduce. For larger lakes in the state, that has long involved someone going out and interview-

ing hundreds of anglers to ask about the fishing there, said Melissa Treml, fisheries research and policy manager for the DNR. Among the questions: What types of fish are you catching? And how big are they? “If we change a regulation, maybe fishing pressure could go up or down, or the sizes of fish being removed,” Treml said. “And then it allows us to see how anglers are responding.” The annual DNR research on the state’s 10 largest walleye lakes is known as a creel survey, named for the small wicker basket used by anglers to hold fish. But for other large lakes, the surveys are on a rotation. For example, a creel survey at Lake Bemidji has been conducted once every 10 years. Treml said it can cost $35,000 to survey just one lake during the open-

The DNR is asking anglers, like these men out on the Minnesota River, to submit data on their catch via a smartphone app. The free app, iFish Minnesota, helps anglers log what they’re catching and where.

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Wednesday, June 10-Friday, June 12, 2015

VALLEY RURAL LIFE

PAGE 5

RESEARCHERS From PAGE 4

water season, so the DNR has to weigh its options. “It’s been quite a few years where we’ve been toying with other ideas just due to the expense and the fact that we can’t get to that many lakes,” she said. Paul Venturelli, an assistant professor in fisheries at U of M, said data collection via the smartphone app could help the scientists cope with shrinking research dollars. “It’s also an interesting opportunity to be everywhere all the time,” he said. “You can’t creel everywhere all the time, but anglers are everywhere all of the time. Someone’s fishing right now.” Researchers aim to convince 20,000 to 30,000 anglers to download the iFish Minnesota app and sign up for iFish Forever, a

free add-on that allows anglers to share their information anonymously. If 30 to 50 percent of those people use the app regularly, it could be a viable alternative to the traditional creel survey, Venturelli said. That could give researchers data on even more lakes. After a year of data collection, researchers will compare the app data with their traditional data-collection methods. An analysis of app data collected in Alberta, Canada, showed where people were fishing. Officials in Denmark also are trying out the technology. In the United States, Florida researchers are using it. For the app to work for the DNR, Venturelli said, Minnesota participants will have to report accurate data. “We need people to be using the app cor-

rectly, logging every trip and every single fish they catch, even if it’s a three-inch perch,” he said. “I was ice fishing and caught a bunch of those and dutifully logged all of them, even though my thumb got pretty cold. Otherwise you start to create biases in the data.” Some anglers already have signaled their interest in helping the DNR collect fishing data. Since 2003, Minnesota B.A.S.S. Nation, an angling group, has sent the DNR data on bass caught during tournaments and even during private fishing trips. The group’s conservation director, Mickey Goetting, said the iFish Minnesota app sounds like a good idea. The main challenge, he said,

will be convincing anglers to use it. “Our system took some time. You have to keep publicizing that it’s out there to get some growth,” Goetting said. “You’ll get a little pushback in that some people don’t want to give up their secret fishing spots, but I think long term it will provide value to the DNR.” Treml said there’s no need for anglers to worry about the DNR sharing their secrets. “It’ll all be anonymous. We’re not going to be posting your hot fishing spot or anything like that,” she said. “It’s just for general, broad-scale patterns in their angling behavior, which we hope will help us better manage the fisheries.”

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VALLEY RURAL LIFE

Wednesday, June 10-Friday, June 12, 2015

Study estimates bird flu costs in Minnesota $310 million U of M Extension: costs could double By MIKKEL PATES • FORUM NEWS SERVICE

The University of Minnesota Extension Service says the bird flu outbreaks since March 4 have cost the state’s turkey and poultry industries nearly $310 million. The U of M used a computer model to determine that for every $1 million in direct potential sales revenue lost to bird flu, the indirect costs are $1.8 million, including $450,000 in lost wages in the state’s 80 nonmetro counties. Direct losses for turkey and egg-laying operations are at $113 million. “These projections represent where we stand as of May 11,” says Brigid Tuck, an extension senior analyst in Mankato. “If the virus affects more farms, as we have seen since May 11, the impact levels will rise. If barns stay empty for another cycle of poultry production, these numbers could potentially double.” Big new cases Tuck notes the recent announcement of a 2-million-

hen egg-laying operation being hit in Renville County will be a “significant” increase in the impact on the poultry industry, which already had been figured at 14 percent in her study as of May 11. About 9 percent of the turkey industry had been hit, she says. Minnesota’s poultry production and poultry processing together account for $3 billion in receipts in the state. They account for about 7 percent of the state’s agricultural and forestry economy. The idling of 100 poultry processing facilities would re-

sult in 210 jobs affected across all industries, Tuck says. She says the analysis didn’t account for the amount of time the barns might have to sit idle before repopulation. She says the study didn’t focus on what producers might be able to receive in compensation from either federal or state sources. Kent Olson, U of M economist and associate dean of the Extension’s Center for Community Vitality in St. Paul, said the analysis is an “initial look at the short-to immediate-term picture.” He says so

far, only one producer has announced layoffs. The JennieO Store in Faribault, Minn., earlier this month announced it would lay off 233 people as of May 26. Olson says it is difficult to know how many of the state’s 6,000 poultry processing workers might be affected, or for how long. “It may be a temporary loss,” Olson says. The study determined, for every $1 million in lost poultry production, the feed industry loses about $230,000 in demand. Of every 100 jobs

lost associated with the industry, nine are in trucking. Tuck and Olson didn’t immediately know whether any of the affected turkey barns have been able to repopulate. Tuck says the study was accomplished as part of an economic emergency program in consultation with economic development partners in the state. She doesn’t know whether a follow-up study will be launched or when, but says she and colleagues “definitely recommend” it. She says there could be opportunities to coordinate with researchers in

other affected states, including Iowa. Minnesota declared an economic state of emergency as a result of the bird flu outbreaks on April 23. Tuck says the disease “certainly introduces some uncertainty” into the business for the state, but says the study wasn’t designed to say how the disease might affect future investments in the industry.

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VALLEY RURAL LIFE

PAGE 7

Organic claims not always accurate In an effort to live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle, consumers have embraced organic foods in record numbers. They stand behind the idea that organic products are not only better for them, but also better for the planet. But the claims that organic food is safer, healthier and more eco-friendly may be more hype than fact. Some organic foods are not all that they seem to be, and when you dig for the dirt on “organic,” you might be surprised at what you find. The variety of organic products available at specialty food stores and more traditional supermarkets has increased considerably. Food purists and environmentalists support this growing trend. Certified organic foods are grown without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms or ionizing radiation. Organically produced meats are from animals that do not take antibiotics or growth hormones to produce heartier cuts. The USDA National

Organic Program sees to it that organic foods meet these stringent requirements and also that any companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to the supermarket or restaurant are certified as well. However, consumers who embrace organic products might not be getting what they think they are. The term “organic” conjures up images of local produce stands and farmers diligently caring for their crops. However, as organic foods have grown in popularity and the organic food industry has become a multi-billion dollar industry, the methods of bringing these foods to a store near you have changed. While consumers may believe that organic broccoli was trucked in from a farm down the road, it actually may have traveled thousands of miles -- negating many environmental benefits in the process. Many smaller organic businesses have felt the pressure to keep up with mainstream foods and have joined the ranks of commer-

There are many consumers that would like to believe that organic foods are healthier and better for the environment. But some research indicates that these claims may not be justified.

cial food production. In fact, some smaller companies have actually been bought out by large food giants. Organic Cow, a Vermont milk producer, now operates under the auspices of Horizon, a company based in Colorado. Cascadian Farm, which produces organic frozen dinners among other items, is a subsidiary of General Mills. Many mainstream food companies have their own organic alter egos, which would no doubt surprise consumers who support the organic food movement.

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VALLEY RURAL LIFE

Wednesday, June 10-Friday, June 12, 2015

Challenges facing farmers Many people have an outdated view of a farm Though farming was once big business in the United States, by 2012 less than 1 percent of Americans were professional farmers. Many challenges face today’s farmers, many of which are largely unknown to the general public. Many people have an outdated view of a farm as a small, family-owned and operated parcel of land where livestock is raised in open pens and crops are hand-harvested when ripe. The reality is that modern-day farms have had to overhaul operations to meet demand and remain competitively priced while adapting to the everchanging ways technology infiltrates all parts of life. Each of these factors present obstacles for today’s farmers. Technology Rural farming communities are expected to make an effort to integrate modern technology Greater public awareness of agricultural challenges could help the industry in the future. (Metro Creative Graphics)

7

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into an industry that has been around for centuries. But such a transition in rural areas, where communications systems may not be as up-todate as those in urban areas, is not always so easy. According to the Manitoba Rural Adaptation Council, a shift from a resource-based to an information-based economy, compounded by the rapid introduction and expansion of new technology in the workplace, has altered farm operation and the skills in demand. Older workers who have been schooled in one way of agriculture may have a significant impact on labor supply and the vitality of farming as a career. Younger adults who are knowledgeable in technology may no longer seek out agricultural careers. See CHALLENGES on 9


Wednesday, June 10-Friday, June 12, 2015

VALLEY RURAL LIFE

PAGE 9

CHALLENGES From PAGE 8

Decrease in farming as an occupation The United States Environmental Protection Agency says that only about 960,000 Americans claim farming as their principal occupation. As that figure has dwindled, the average age of farmers continues to rise, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that roughly 40 percent of the farmers in this country are 55 years old or older. This has led to concerns about the long-term health of family farms throughout the United States.

testers claim that certain practices, such as raising livestock, can pollute water, while the use of fertilizers and chemical pesticides is bad for the environment. Many farmers, however, have altered their methods to be more environmentally friendly and self-sustainable in the process. Climate change is another environmental issue farmers must deal with. Strong storms and severe droughts have made farming even more challenging. Financial fall-out The ongoing recession of the last half-decade has also affected farmers. In November of 2012, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated that the unemployment rate within the agriculture, forestry,

Environmental concerns Many farmers have come under scrutiny for how farming impacts the environment. A growing emphasis on sustainability and conservation has led many people to protest certain farming practices. Pro- See CHALLENGES on 10

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PAGE 10

VALLEY RURAL LIFE

Wednesday, June 10-Friday, June 12, 2015

CHALLENGES

ORGANIC

From PAGE 9

From PAGE 7

fishing, and hunting industries was at 13.6 percent, far higher than the national unemployment rate. As a result, many farm families have found themselves stuck between a rock and a hard place, as rising costs for equipment and technology are being coupled with decreasing profits and rising unemployment. Further complicating matters is competition from corporations and international food producers who have made it difficult for family farmers to turn a significant profit. Many family farmers rely on loans

and lines of credit to survive, but thanks to changes in the financial sector that saw banks become less willing to extend lines of credit, some farmers are facing bankruptcy. Though it can be easy for those who do not work in the agricultural industry to overlook the struggles facing today’s agricultural professionals, a greater understanding of those struggles and the challenges that lay ahead can benefit the industry and its employees down the road. TF132913

ticide-free because all vegetables contain about five percent of their weight in natural pesticides, some of which may be just as potent as manmade varieties. Avery also notes that more than 95 percent of conventional meat and dairy products in the United States are totally free of antibiotics and 99.5 percent of it is free of synthetic hormones. Only one sample in 400 violates the antibiotic limits set by the FDA. Avery also states that there are no nutritional differences between organic and conventionally produced foods, which debunks the myth that organic foods are more nutritionally sound. Organic foods also may contribute to a higher carbon footprint. Instead of using chemical fertilizers to feed produce, the use of animal manure may mean clearing out land for grazing and creating its own problems in off-gassing and water contamination that has been associated with raising livestock. Furthermore, the U.K. Department of Environment and Rural Affairs states, “A shift towards a local food system, and away from a supermarket-based food system with its central distribution depots, lean supply chains and big, full trucks, might actually increase the number of food-vehicle miles being traveled locally, because things would move around in a larger number of smaller, less efficiently packed vehicles.� Champions of organic foods are sure to stand by the

(Metro Creative Graphics)

claims that organic foods are better. Many organic foods are nutritionally sound and rely on more natural growing methods. Yet consumers should keep an open mind about both organic foods and their commercially produced counterparts. TF12B665


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VALLEY RURAL LIFE

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Gaylord 507.237.5521

Employee Owned & Operated

1951 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato

507-387-1171 800-879-1938 www.candssupply.com


PAGE 12

VALLEY RURAL LIFE

Wednesday, June 10-Friday, June 12, 2015

2015 Chrysler 200 Limited

2015 Chrysler Town & Country Touring

4 cyl., auto, pw, pdl, alloy wheels

MSRP: $24,580 SALE PRICE

MSRP: $33,585 SALE PRICE

19,998

$

*

2.0 4 cyl., auto, pw, pdl, alloy wheels, rallye pkg

MSRP: $19,830 SALE PRICE

#11316

28,985*

#11344

2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4X4

2015 Jeep Compass High Altitude 4X4

remote start, heated seats & steering wheel, back-up camera, nav, tow pkg

leather, p.seat, 6.5” touch screen, back-up camera, heated seats, remote start

28,996

$

*

MSRP: $29,070 SALE PRICE #11081

24,946

$

*

17,993

$ #11257

#11078

pw, pdl, dual zone temp, touch screen, satellite radio

MSRP: $22,240 SALE PRICE

$

**

2015 Dodge Journey AVP

heated seats & steering wheel, remote start, nav, premium sound system

MSRP: $32,665 SALE PRICE

$

MSRP: $33,224 SALE PRICE

28,992

$

2015 Dodge Challenger SS

2015 Dodge Dart SE

16,982*

heated seats & steering wheel, nav, back-up camera, dvd

* #11306

2015 Jeep Patriot Latitude 4X4 heated seats, remote start, 6.5” touch screen, uconnect with blue tooth

MSRP: $26,480 SALE PRICE #11195

21,988*

$

#11125

2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4X4

2015 Jeep Renegade Latitude 4X4

2015 Jeep Wrangler Sahara 4X4

heated leather, tow pkg, moonroof, nav, 20” wheels

4 cyl., 9 speed auto, back-up camera, satellite radio, alloy wheels

v6, auto, heated seats, remote start, auto temp, tow pkg

MSRP: $44,620 SALE PRICE

40,989*

$

MSRP: $25,690 SALE PRICE #11333

2015 Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4X4

23,916*

$

MSRP: $36,730 SALE PRICE

#11341

2015 Ram 2500 Crew Cab Slt 4X4

3.0 ecodiesel, pw, pdl, tow pkg, back-up camera, satellite radio

6.4 hemi, v8, remote start, back-up camera, tow pkg

32,985*

$

#11299

Lager’s

St. Peter

MSRP: 43,490 SALE PRICE

$

38,473*

$

910 Old Minnesota Ave.

MSRP: 48,365 SALE PRICE

$

#11346

39,987*

$

#11320

507-931-4070 • 800-657-4802 HOURS: M - Th 8-7 | Fri 8-6 | Sat 8-4 www.lagerschryslerdodgejeep.com

*includes finance cash. must finance through lager’s finance source to qualify. see salesperson for details. o.a.c. **also includes minivan owner loyalty. see salesperson for details.


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