February/March 2024 RR

Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION®'S

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024 • VOL. 30 NO.1 | WFBF.COM

Close to the Heart:

Olson passionate about representing Wisconsin’s rural voice Page 16

contents vol. 30 no. 1

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stay connected WIFarmBureau

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

WFBF RECOGNIZED AT AFBF

State and county Farm Bureau leaders recognized at convention.

AFBF ANNUAL CONVENTION

Scrapbook highlighting this year's convention in Salt Lake City, Utah.

AG DAY AT THE CAPITOL

More than 275 farmers and agriculturists attended this annual event.

CLOSE TO THE HEART

Meet WFBF President and District 9 Director Brad Olson.

GRASSROOTS IN ACTION

Read about the latest happenings with county Farm Bureaus across Wisconsin.

MEMBER BENEFITS

WFBF adds KEY Apparel and Food Finance Institute to the list of benefits.

VOICES

Columns from Olson, Eckelberg and Duvall.

GATHER AROUND THE TABLE

Enjoy recipes from National Pork Board and Wisconsin Cheese.

PICTURE THIS

See the winter fun our members had around Wisconsin.

AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Kamps honored as Outstanding Teacher Award Winner.

RURAL MUTUAL

Learn the benefits of bundling insurance and the importance of software updates.

COVER STORY PHOTOS BY CASSIE SONNENTAG ROB KLUSSENDORF

ONLINE LIBRARY

Read our previous issues at wfbf.com/read.

wfbf.com

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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've been pretty open in past notes that we have some little humans running around our house. Our house is usually a bit messy, always loud (unless they are sleeping) and we are now learning to celebrate small wins by clapping for everything.

When the toddler sits on the potty, we celebrate. When the baby doesn’t toss his milk cup across the room, we celebrate.

I’m talking about not only clapping, but dancing and a little whoop-whoopin’.

Mom and Dad really celebrate when they both sleep through the night and don’t play in the toilet.

I got to thinking the other day that what a shame it is that we don’t take time to celebrate these small wins past this time in life. At least I didn’t. Sure, if I did well on a test in college I would go buy a fancy coffee or something simple like that but rarely did I do a little jig and really relish in it.

What if we took time to pause and reflect on our accomplishments, even the smallest ones? As we travel further into 2024, I think that just might be my challenge to myself and those around me.

Looking at this Rural Route, we are starting that challenge off on the right foot as we reflect on the American Farm Bureau Annual Convention that took place in January. Not only did Wisconsin Farm Bureau bring home the State Awards of Excellence, but we brought home many memories and accomplishments of our members. The AFBF Convention recap starts on page 5.

Our Grassroots pages are back. Read about all the fantastic things you are doing on the county level for Farm Bureau.

Those pages are on 20 and 21. Don’t forget to stop and reflect on the impact you are having in your communities with these events and activities.

We are celebrating adding two new member benefits to our lineup. Get the scoop on those on page 24.

On page 16 you’ll read about Polk Burnett Farm Bureau member Brad Olson. He reflects on his accomplishment in getting elected president of the WFBF Board.

I hope you enjoy this issue and spend a little time reflecting on your own accomplishments. Maybe they are simple and that’s OK. No judgment here. We clap for anything from eating a blueberry to saying ‘Mama’.

On a last note, I just wanted to acknowledge that we are in that long stretch of winter. Be sure to check in on your own mental health and check in on your neighbors. We will get through it together.

Thanks for reading, Amy Eckelberg Rural Route Editor Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation

Editor Amy Eckelberg - 608.828.5706 Designer Lynn Siekmann - 608.828.5707 Contributors Cassie Sonnentag - 608.828.5711 Rachel Gerbitz - 608.828.5709 Kylie Ver Kuilen - 608.828.5721 Address of Publication Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 1241 John Q. Hammons Dr. Madison, WI 53705-0550 Postmaster: Send address changes to Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 Madison, WI 53705-0550 Contact Information 608.836.5575 800.261.FARM (3276) wfbf.com info@wfbf.com WFBF Board of Directors Brad Olson, Frederic (President) Joe Bragger, Independence (Vice President) Dave Daniels, Union Grove Arch Morton Jr., Janesville Robert Nigh, Viroqua Kevin Krentz, Berlin Dan Meyer, Kiel Brian Preder, Weyauwega Kim Bremmer, Loyal Brenda Dowiasch, Augusta (Promotion and Education Committee Chair) Kat Peper, Rock Springs (YFA Committee Chair) Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Rural Route (ISSN 1082-1368) (USPS 39940), the official publication of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, is published six times per year in February|March, April|May, June|July, August|September, October|November and December|January. Subscription of $5 is included in Farm Bureau dues. Periodical postage is paid at Madison, Wisconsin. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without written consent.

For advertising rates and information: Wisconsin accounts contact Slack Attack at 608.222.7630 or barbara@slackattack.com.

National accounts contact Casey McNeal at 800.798.2691 ext. 334 or casey@iafalls.com.

For general inquiries, contact Amy Eckelberg at 608.828.5706 or aeckelberg@wfbf.com.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

AFBF

American Farm Bureau Establishes 2024 Policies F

armer and rancher delegates to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 105th Convention adopted policies to guide the organization’s work in 2024. Key topics ranged from artificial intelligence, to labor, to crop insurance.

For the second year, delegates were polled at the beginning of the voting session regarding their farms.

The results show 99% of those who cast votes operate family farms and nearly two-thirds represent small to mid-size farms as defined by USDA. “Delegates demonstrated their readiness to seize the opportunities and take on the challenges facing agriculture,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall.

“It’s crucial that Congress pass a new farm bill and address the labor shortage in 2024. The policy set forth by Farm Bureaus in all 50 states and Puerto Rico WFBF Board Members at the AFBF Convention (from left:) Dave Daniels, will guide AFBF in its efforts through the process. We District 1; Joe Bragger, District 4; Brad Olson, District 9; Kevin Krentz, look forward to making our members’ unified voice District 5; Dan Meyer, District 6; Brian Preder, District 7; and Arch Morton heard as they work to ensure a strong food supply for Jr, District 2. Not Pictured: Robert Nigh, District 3 and Kat Peper, YFA Chair.

America’s families.”

Olson, Krentz and Daniels served as delegates for Wisconsin Farm Bureau.

Delegates to the American Farm Bureau business in production instead of being solely used for renewable meeting voted to create new policy to address the growth of energy projects. artificial intelligence in agriculture. AI has the potential to Delegates supported a small change in dairy policy that favors enhance farming practices and conserve resources, but privacy small and medium farm within the Dairy Margin Protection rights must be respected. program. Delegates are waiting to see how the Federal Milk Recognizing the challenges of maintaining a strong Marketing Orders Hearing and farm bill turn out before agriculture workforce, delegates voted to stabilize wage rates for making additional changes. guest workers and revise H-2A and H-2B programs to better Delegates called for changes to the contract poultry pay meet the needs of America’s farms. system to ensure long-term economic sustainability for farmers, They reaffirmed their support for increasing reference and to require more transparency from chicken companies. prices in the farm bill and maintaining a strong crop insurance On trade, delegates added policy to recommend Congress program, including an expansion of eligibility to ensure more investigate fertilizer supply chain outages and tariffs placed commodities are covered. on imports.

On foreign investment, delegates added policy in support of Beyond policy changes, AFBF President Zippy Duvall and additional funding to improve data collection on the foreign Vice President Scott VanderWal were unanimously re-elected ownership of agricultural land. Delegates also voted to support for another two-year term. the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. reviewing Planning for the American Farm Bureau’s 2025 Convention foreign investments in U.S. agribusinesses, natural resources and has already begun. Mark your calendar to meet us Jan. 24-29, real estate.

2025, in San Antonio, Texas.

Policy was added to prioritize agricultural land remaining The delegate floor at the AFBF Annual Convention.

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AFBF

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Recognized at AFBF Winnebago County Farm Bureau Wins National Award

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he American Farm Bureau Federation honored 24 county Farm Bureaus at the 105th Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, Jan. 19-24. The selected winners participated in the County Activities of Excellence program and demonstrated a commitment to offering quality programming to their counties.

“I’m proud of the strong leadership and engagement at the county level that leads to these outstanding volunteer-driven programs,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Improving the lives of Farm Bureau members, supporting our rural communities and giving our urban neighbors a window into the world of agriculture are all worthy goals,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall.

The AFBF County Activities of Excellence (CAE) Awards celebrate unique, volunteer-driven programming at the local level. The CAE program categorizes county activities into the following areas: Education and Ag Promotion, Member Services, Public Relations and Information, Leadership Development, Policy Implementation and Safety.

Wisconsin’s own Winnebago County Farm Bureau was recognized for its Community Night event. This evening event helps attendees learn about Farm Bureau and the importance of agriculture while also building relationships and raising money for charity.

This event showcases what Farm Bureau does for farmers and the community, ways community members can get involved and the many benefits of a Farm Bureau membership, but most importantly, thanking the hard work of our many agriculturalists and supporters in the community. This year Community Night was held Feb. 3 at Brighton Acres. Learn more about this event by following the Winnebago County Farm Bureau Facebook page.

Wisconsin Wins State Award of Excellence

Krentz Recognized for Service

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wards recognizing excellence in implementation of outstanding member programs and membership achievement in 2023 were presented at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 105th Convention.

The Awards of Excellence recognize state Farm Bureaus that demonstrated outstanding achievements in four program areas: Advocacy, Coalitions & Partnerships, Engagement & Outreach and Leadership & Business Development.

Wisconsin was recognized with a plaque for this achievement.

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Winnebago County Farm Bureau members with AFBF President Zippy Duvall.

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evin Krentz was recognized on stage during the AFBF Convention for his service on the American Farm Bureau Board of Directors. He was first elected to the AFBF Board in January of 2021.

Kevin served as Wisconsin Farm Bureau President from December 2020 to December 2023. He was first elected to the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Board of Directors in 2012 to represent District 5, which includes: Adams, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Juneau, Marquette, Waushara and Winnebago counties.

Krentz with Duvall on stage at AFBF Annual Convention.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Zimdars Competes in National Discussion Meet

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ate Zimdars of Dane County was selected the winner of the 2023 Wisconsin Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Agriculturalist Discussion Meet and competed in the American Farm Bureau Discussion Meet during the AFBF 105th Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The Discussion Meet is a panel discussion in which Farm Bureau members between the ages of 18 and 35 are judged on their ability to express their ideas and opinions and reach a solution on current issues affecting agriculture.

Nate grew up on a small hobby farm outside of Ripon raising sheep and poultry. He attended UW-Fond du Lac and UW-Madison majoring in political science and history. He is a former state FFA Officer and Wisconsin FFA Alumni President. He is a graduate of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Leadership Institute Class XII and is a former county Farm Bureau board member. Nate is also a past Collegiate Discussion Meet winner.

Sand Elected Secretary of AFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee

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he YF&R Committee is made up of 16 positions representing all regions of the U.S. An individual or couple may hold each committee appointment. Committee members are responsible for program planning which includes the coordination of YF&R competitive events during AFBF’s convention each January, and the award-winning Harvest for All program.

During the AFBF Convention, members of the AFBF YF&R Committee elected a new executive team. Kevin Lussier of Florida will be the committee’s chair for 2024, taking over the position in March at the end of the YF&R Leadership Conference, and will serve for one year. He will also serve a oneyear term on the AFBF board of directors.

Clarissa Cauthorn of Missouri was elected vice chair and Haily Sand of Wisconsin was elected secretary. They will each serve one-year terms.

Ben and Haily Sand serve on the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Agriculturist Committee as ExOfficio Members.

On their farm, Sand Grains LLC, the couple grows corn, soybeans, rye and fresh produce. In addition to their work on the farm, the couple holds off-farm jobs. Ben works for 715 Ag Supply as a Pioneer sales associate and agronomist. He also runs a crop insurance business, 715 Risk Advisors. Haily is an independent agriculture consultant with AgSource/VAS Laboratories where she takes soil and plant tissue samples and works with farmers to create and review nutrient management plans. The couple has two daughters, Rye and Ryv.

Leahy Serves on Promotion and Education Committee

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ynn Leahy was appointed in 2023 as a member of the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Promotion & Education Committee. She attended the AFBF 105th Convention and continues to serve in this role.

“Engaging with consumers and elected leaders to build trust while sharing agriculture’s story and advancing leadership skills are

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

important foundations of national program committee work,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall.

The Farm Bureau Promotion and Education program is designed to develop, implement and promote projects and programs which build awareness and understanding of agriculture and provide leadership development for the agricultural community.

Ten individuals representing qualifying Farm Bureau Promotion & Education states make up the P&E Committee.

Its mission is to develop and centralize resources that inspire and equip Farm Bureau to convey the significance of agriculture. wfbf.com

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SCRAPBOOK with their podcast.

Discover Ag went live

Members served as WFBF Staff and Board the Discussion meet.

judges for

Mid-General Session Ke Uldrich, global futurist,ynote Speaker Jack speaker and author.

United States Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack

ok ation's 2024 Bo d n u Fo e th d announce t Zippy Duvall AFBF Presiden g the Flapjack Fundraiser. the Year durin

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of

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

, reg Hardenling at G r e k a e p S e s te udent Coun sion Keyno Closing SesAthletic Director of St Associate sity of Michigan. the Univer

WFBF members and sta with the Miracle of Agricff helped assemble food relief boxes ulture Foundation. Thes delivered to families in ne e ed in Iowa following convboxes were ention!

WFBF Boa Potato in trd Directors posed w he tradesh ith the Big ow.

Idaho

More than 30 Farm Bureau members and staff attended the American Farm Bureau Annual Convention.

e flag Olson waved the stat WFBF President Brad onies. in the opening cerem

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

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AFBF

Farm Family Mental Health and Wellbeing Services Revolutionized A

landmark alliance is launching free, anonymous, online mental health and wellbeing services to provide a nationwide safety net of confidential and on-demand support to farmers, ranchers and farm families. Unveiled at the American Farm Bureau Federation 2024 Convention, Farm Family Wellness Alliance’s groundbreaking solution harnesses the best resource to build farm family wellness—access to a community, including a network of farmers and ranchers who understand the challenges and rewards that come with the agricultural way of life.

Access to services starts at Togetherall, a safe, clinically moderated peer-to-peer community, where members around the world are there to listen, support and give members’ mental wellbeing a boost. Through an anonymous profile, users can access a global network of peers, backed by the safeguarding of licensed clinicians overseeing the community around-the-clock.

Access to the platform is available to members of a farm family aged 16 and older.

In addition to Togetherall’s global community, farmers and their families will have access to an agricultural sector sub-group to share or read others’ experiences in a safe, judgement-free zone.

“Farming is tough even on the best days. That’s why Farm Bureau has been committed to helping farmers and ranchers across the country get connected with the tools and resources they need to promote mental health and wellbeing—and to check in on their friends, neighbors and loved ones. Togetherall will help us all to do just that,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall.” It’s OK not to be OK, but it’s not OK not to reach out when you’re hurting. We are grateful for how this partnership will strengthen our rural communities and provide the support we all need.

The Farm Family Wellness Alliance is made possible through a coalition of organizations, including Farm Foundation, American Farm Bureau Federation, Farm Credit, CoBank, Iowa Farm Bureau, CHS, Land O’Lakes, National Farmers Union, 4-H, FFA, Agriculture Future of America, Togetherall and Personal Assistance Services. This coalition makes it possible to offer services to farm families nationwide and deepens the impact of an earlier pilot initiative started in Iowa with the addition of the Togetherall peer-to-peer support platform.

“Farm Foundation has been working towards the goal of improving farmer access to mental health and other wellness services for several years, with the Farm Family Wellness Alliance pilot starting in 2020 after the derecho in Iowa,” said Shari Rogge-Fidler, president and CEO of Farm Foundation.

“We are pleased to have been able to bring together this coalition of farmer-serving organizations into a partnership that

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allowed us to expand the program nationwide and will offer so much direct and immediate benefits to American farmers.”

Togetherall also offers a range of wellbeing tools, such as self-assessments and access to additional support services through a partnership with Personal Assistance Services. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, financial health, improving sleep and more.

“Navigating the challenges of farming can be tough, and other farmers are often the only other people who can understand the unique stressors of the industry. Anonymous, safe, online peer support is a critical component on the mental health support continuum, and especially important in reaching communities such as farmers, who may otherwise not reach out for support,” said Matthew McEvoy, CEO of Togetherall. “We are thrilled to partner with the Farm Family Wellness Alliance to offer Togetherall’s online, clinically moderated, peer support community to all farmers and their families across the US.” The landmark alliance bringing Togetherall and Personal Assistance Services to farm families represents a broad swath of agricultural organizations, illustrating the far-reaching impacts of mental health and well-being in rural America.

“Farm Credit recognizes the challenges America’s farmers and ranchers face, especially related to mental health and stress.

Fewer resources exist in rural areas as compared to urban areas,” said Todd Van Hoose, president and CEO of Farm Credit Council. “This free, anonymous, and safe access to mental health support offers assistance in a way nothing has before for rural Americans. We appreciate Farm Foundation’s leadership in bringing this resource to fruition.”

To learn more about the Farm Family Wellness Alliance and the services available through the Togetherall platform, visit farmfoundation.org/farm-family-wellness-alliance.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

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Farmers A dvocate for Rural Wisconsin During Ag Day at the Capitol

On January 31, more than 275 farmers and agriculturists gathered at the Monona Terrace in Madison for Ag Day at the Capitol.

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g Day at the Capitol is an annual event for Wisconsin farmers and agriculturists to learn more about state issues affecting agriculture and meet with their state legislators.

Attendees started the day WFBF President Brad Olson welcomed with a welcome attendees. from Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Brad Olson, a video message from Gov. Tony Evers and comments from Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary Randy Romanski.

Secretary Romanski encouraged farmers in attendance to stay connected with their legislators on both the state and federal level.

“It is really important for you to continue to do things like this,” said Romanski. “Whether it is your first time or one hundredth time speaking to your legislators, your voice matters.”

Following the Secretary’s speech, Wisconsin Realtors Association’s Director of Political and Governmental Affairs Joe Murray served as the event’s featured speaker. Murray shared what constituents can expect for a political outlook in the coming year.

The afternoon session was a legislative panel on several current issues impacting agriculture in the state legislature.

The panel was moderated by WFBF Executive Director of Governmental Relations Jason Mugnaini and was comprised of Senators Patrick Testin, Brad Pfaff and Joan Ballweg, and Representatives Tony Kurtz, Dave Considine and Travis Tranel.

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The panel discussed: • Recent investments in rural infrastructure.

• Improving access services, including affordable healthcare, for farm families.

• Government’s role in new and emerging agricultural technologies.

• Ensuring a stable workforce for sustainable growth in agriculture.

The program concluded with issue briefings with a strong focus on encouraging the passage of AB 860 and SB 811, legislation which would allow Wisconsin Farm Bureau to provide members with a unique and affordable health coverage plan option that is currently operated by state Farm Bureaus in seven other states.

Additional topics included: • Protecting animal agriculture from overreaching local regulation.

• Upcoming ARIP application process.

• Supporting agricultural economic development projects in Evansville and Stevens Point.

The afternoon’s program concluded with attendees walking to the Capitol where they met with their legislators from their respective areas.

Rural Mutual Insurance Company and GROWMARK Inc. are major sponsors of the event. Co-sponsors of the event, with Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, include the Dairy Business Association, Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Hemp Alliance, Wisconsin Horse Council, Wisconsin Pork Association, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association, Wisconsin Soybean Association and the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Joe Murray shared a statewide political outlook.

A legislative panel was asked a series of questions

by WFBF's Jason Mugnaini.

DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski emphasized the importance of events like Ag Day.

Members from Adams, Marquette, Green Lake and Waushara Counties met with Rep. Dallman.

Members from Buffalo, Eau Claire and Trempealeau Counties met with Rep. Pronschsinske.

Members from Wood County met with Rep. VanderMeer.

Members from Barron and Price Counties met with a staff member from Sen. Quinn's office.

Manitowoc and Sheboygan County members met with Wisconsin State Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu.

Dunn County members met with Rep. Petryk.

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NEWS

Farm Bureau Urges USDA to Use Emergency Authority to Ensure Fair Pricing for Dairy Farmers T he American Farm Bureau Federation sent a letter in January to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urging the agency to issue a final decision on an emergency basis to speed the implementation of the “higher-of ” Class I mover formula to buffer dairy farmers from further losses during the forthcoming Federal Milk Marketing Order rulemaking process.

“The comprehensive process of amending federal orders, though important, means dairy farmers remain stuck with current pricing regulations until USDA publishes a final rule,” Sam Kieffer, AFBF vice president of public policy, said in the letter, which also notes that FMMO reform is in step five

of a 12-step process. “The current Class I mover was a wellintentioned policy misstep that has reduced dairy farmers’ checks, with little relief in sight. Emergency implementation of the ‘higher-of ’ Class I mover formula will help buffer against persistent losses associated with mistaken and outdated policies that have left dairy farmers struggling to make ends meet.”

AFBF economist Danny Munch read the letter into the official record as the last witness of the hearing process. AFBF participated in the full 49 days of the hearing, which began on Aug. 23, 2023.

Prior to the convening of the hearing, AFBF has long been an advocate of Federal Milk Marketing Order reform, including hosting a Federal Milk Marketing Order Forum in October 2022, where a return to the “higher-of ” Class I mover was the number one FMMO reform priority of the gathered farmers. AFBF economists and Farm Bureau members testified numerous times throughout the hearing. To see AFBF’s testimony and exhibits, visit the hearing website at www.ams. usda.gov/rules-regulations/moa/dairy/hearings/national-fmmopricing-hearing.

Three WFBF Backed Bills Pass Assembly T

he Wisconsin Assembly passed three bills supported by Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation to address the state’s wolf population, allow more efficient transportation of milk products and clarify limitations on the Farmland Preservation Tax Credit program.

Senate Bill 139, authored by Rep. Chanz Green (R-Ashland) and Sen. Rob Stafsholt (R-New Richmond), would require the Department of Natural Resources to establish a statewide wolf population goal as part of the state’s wolf management plan.

“Farmers and voters in rural Wisconsin want a socially sustainable wolf population goal that strikes a reasonable balance,” said WFBF Executive Director of Governmental Relations Jason Mugnaini. “The plan we have now prioritizes wolf habitat expansion over the concerns of rural families and livestock farmers. We appreciate the Assembly moving this bill to address those concerns, especially since our members weren’t given the opportunity to have an in-person hearing regarding the DNR state wolf plan.”

Senate Bill 431, authored by Rep. Tony Kurtz (R-Wonewoc) and Sen. Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan), would expand the current permitting allowance for semi-trucks equipped with a sixth axle to carry 98,000-pound loads of milk and other milk products.

WFBF appreciates the partnership of Wisconsin Cheesemakers Association to move this bill forward.

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“This legislation will help address the ongoing shortage of CDL drivers in Wisconsin and throughout the country and improve the overall efficiency of getting dairy products to market,” said Mugnaini. “WFBF would like to thank the bill authors, our industry partners and the Department of Transportation for working with us on this issue.”

Assembly Bill 480, authored by Rep. Ellen Schutt (R-Clinton) and Sen. Corey Tomczyk (R-Mosinee), addresses a loophole in current law that allows someone to claim farmland preservation tax credits for land that has been redeveloped as a solar generation facility. The bill clarifies that while a portion of a farm may have solar panels installed to provide energy to the farm itself, land developed as a solar generation facility is not eligible for the credit.

“Current law allows up to 50% of an agricultural landowners acreage to be developed as a solar generation facility while remaining eligible for the program,” Mugnaini said. “No one should be claiming farmland preservation tax credits for land that is not being farmed. This bill will ensure these credits continue to be used as intended; to preserve Wisconsin farmland.”

For the most recent WFBF legislative news be sure you are subscribed to Policy Pulse. Email etomasik@wfbf.com to get on the list.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Staff Members Join Wisconsin Farm Bureau Danielle Angotti-Baum Hired as WFBF District 7 Coordinator

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anielle Angotti-Baum has been hired by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation as the district coordinator in northeastern Wisconsin.

Angotti-Baum will be responsible for working with county Farm Bureaus to develop and implement programs to serve Farm Bureau members and to coordinate membership recruitment and retention efforts.

“I am looking forward to building relationships with the Farm Bureau members in northeast Wisconsin,” said Angotti-Baum. “There is a legacy of strong programming and membership recruitment efforts in District 7. I look forward to building off that legacy to continue to develop opportunities to help District 7 members continue to thrive.”

Angotti-Baum will serve Farm Bureau’s District 7, which includes the counties of Langlade, Marinette, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano and Waupaca. She began her duties on Jan. 22.

“Danielle has deep roots in agricultural education, making her well-suited for the District 7 Coordinator position. We are excited for her to join our talented field staff in serving members in northeast Wisconsin,” said WFBF’s Executive Director of

Member Relations Bob Leege.

Angotti-Baum grew up on a farm near Freedom in Outagamie County.

She is a graduate of UW-River Falls with a degree in agricultural education and a master’s degree in education, school supervision and instructional leadership. Prior to graduation, AngottiBaum served as State Vice President for Wisconsin FFA and was a member of the UW-River Falls Collegiate Farm Bureau. Since graduation, she has been employed as an agri-science teacher and FFA advisor at Clintonville High School Angotti-Baum assumed the duties of District 7 Coordinator from Wes Raddatz, who retired at the end of 2023 after 27 years of service to Wisconsin Farm Bureau.

Angotti-Baum

Henderson

Hill, Henderson and Vogel Named Wisconsin Farm Bureau Interns

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allie Hill, Madisyn Henderson and Lashawna Vogel have been selected to intern with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau during the coming year. Together they will assist in promoting and communicating for WFBF programs throughout the spring and summer of 2024.

Madisyn Henderson has been selected as the organization’s Agriculture in the Classroom intern. Henderson grew up on her family’s farm in Racine County where she was heavily involved in 4-H and FFA. Most recently, she served as the 2022-23 Racine County Agriculture Ambassador. Henderson is a freshman at Iowa State University studying agricultural business where she is involved in Block and Bridle, Agricultural Business Club and Sigma Alpha Professional Agriculture sorority. She looks forward to bringing new and bright ideas to her role with Ag in the Classroom in the coming year.

During her internship, Henderson will collaborate on social media content creation and analysis for Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom. She will assist with communicating Ag in the Classroom programming efforts and provide program event coverage throughout the spring. Henderson began her duties on Jan. 15.

Kallie Hill has been selected as the organization’s Leadership and Programs intern. Hill was raised near Princeton, Minn. where she grew a love for agriculture and livestock. She is a junior at UW-River Falls studying marketing communications and animal science. Throughout college, Hill has been involved with the UWRF Beef team as the FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

association’s chair and Intercollegiate Horse Show Association Western Team.

Hill looks forward to gaining valuable Hill experience in non-profit work and event planning during her internship.

During her internship, Hill will support the organization’s leadership development programs including Young Farmer and Agriculturist, Promotion and Education, and FFA. She will assist with social media content creation and program promotion across the state.

Hill will begin her duties on May 20.

Vogel Lashawna Vogel has been selected as the organization’s Communications intern. Vogel grew up near Denmark and is a junior at UW-River Falls studying agricultural communications and minoring in agribusiness. On campus, Vogel is active in Collegiate Farm Bureau as the Ag Day on Campus co-chair, in addition to several other clubs focused on agriculture, communication, education, governance and marketing. She served as the 2021-22 Wisconsin FFA State Reporter. Vogel looks forward to connecting with Farm Bureau members in the coming year.

During her internship, Vogel will assist in managing the organization’s social media presence, creating content for WFBF communication channels and contribute to the organization’s blog. Vogel will begin her duties on Feb. 21. wfbf.com

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Close to the Heart:

Olson passionate about representing Wisconsin’s rural voice

By Cassie Sonnentag

A heart for the voice of Wisconsin farmers and a drive for positive change are intrinsically laced in Brad Olson’s mindset. Born and raised on his family’s farm near Frederic, Brad always knew he would have a place in agriculture.

It was the influence of Wisconsin Farm Bureau and a desire to make an impact that led Brad to join the WFBF Board of Directors in 2022 and become WFBF President in December 2023.

Work Boots and Farm Roots For over a century, the Olson family has farmed in Polk County Wisconsin’s north woods. Brad always knew he wanted to continue in the footsteps of his past generations, which led him to buy his family’s dairy farm in 1992.

“Farming is all I’ve ever known – I’ve never worked off the farm,” Brad said.

Brad is the third generation on his farm, which transitioned from dairy cows to crops in 2022. He and his wife, Vicky, and their children, Jeremy and Stacy, farm 600 acres and do custom work for neighboring farms in their area.

In addition to farming, Brad spent 20 years selling seed.

Despite the responsibilities of a farm and business keeping him busy, Brad soon found a need to contribute to the voice of agriculture. It was this need that led him to being active in his local government.

A Seat at the Table Over the course of two decades, Brad has spent time on both his town and county boards. He considers his involvement in these organizations a call of duty for his fellow farmers.

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“There is nowhere else as an individual that you can have an impact in agriculture as much as your town or county board,” Brad said. “As farmers, we need to make sure our voices are heard, and as a whole, agriculture needs a seat at the table.”

As a farmer himself, he recognizes the time commitment as a common concern for those considering running for local office.

“I commonly hear others worry about the time it takes to be involved,” Brad said. “But it takes less time than you think; just one to one-and-a-half hours of your time is what it takes to participate in a meeting and make sure agriculture’s voice is heard.”

Representing his constituents and giving them a voice on the local level is what Brad enjoys most about the positions he has held at the local level. With that being said, he encourages other farmers to consider the opportunities they have before them.

“Everything good and everything bad starts at the local level,” Brad said. “That’s why now, more than ever, we need rural voices sitting on these boards and providing their input.”

Forward Together Brad was introduced to Farm Bureau as another opportunity to make a difference for fellow farmers in agriculture. Eager WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

“I take great pride belonging to an organization that is working hard on behalf of and for the future of agriculture.”

to make a difference, he made the decision to run for the WFBF Board of Directors in 2022 and was elected to represent District 9.

“I enjoy being a Farm Bureau member for the opportunity to influence the future of agriculture in the state of Wisconsin and to be more involved,” Brad said.

Since joining the state board, Brad has found immense joy in working on behalf of Farm Bureau members, a joy that ultimately led him to become Wisconsin Farm Bureau President in December 2023.

“I truly enjoy working on behalf of our members,” Brad said.

“I take great pride belonging to an organization that is working hard on behalf of and for the future of agriculture – regardless of commodity or farm size.”

As Brad continues to advocate for Wisconsin agriculture on the state and national levels, he appreciates the opportunities that led him to where he is today.

“Little opportunities can have great impact; our members are a testament of that,” Brad said. “I’m all in for what Farm Bureau is and what it represents. It is an honor to represent our hardworking members from across the state.”

“Farming is all I’ve ever known – I’ve never worked off the farm.”

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NEWS

Contact Your Legislators to Keep Health Plans Bill Moving A Farm Bureau bill to allow Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation to offer health plans as a member benefit is moving through the state legislature. A hearing on Assembly Bill 860, authored by Rep. Tony Kurtz (R-Wonewoc) and Sen. Pat Testin (R-Stevens Point), was held Jan. 11 in the Assembly Committee on Insurance. A hearing in the Senate Committee on Insurance and Small Business took place on Jan. 18.

“Farm Bureau is uniquely positioned to provide this benefit to those who don’t have employer sponsored coverage and are typically ineligible for federal premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act,” said WFBF President Brad Olson. “I would like to thank the bill’s authors, Rep. Tony Kurtz and Sen. Pat Testin, along with today’s pinch hitter Representative Clint Moses and the rest of the bill’s cosponsors for their leadership in bringing this legislation forward.”

The bill would allow WFBF to offer comprehensive health plans that are medically underwritten. In the six states where they are currently available, this plan provides cost savings of 30% to 60% compared to unsubsidized Affordable Care Act plans. In addition to President Olson, the committee heard from WFBF members Kat Peper, Arch Morton Jr. and Sydney Flick, along with WFBF Executive Director of Government Relations Jason Mugnaini and his counterpart from Tennessee Farm Bureau Ben Sanders.

“My husband is home on the farm and I’m the one who has to work off the farm. I want to come back to the farm and grow it, make it better and start a family,” said Peper. “This story is true for many farmers throughout the state.”

As a grassroots policy organization, Wisconsin Farm Bureau has adopted policy by our members who support solutions for

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Health Plans Rooted in Care

private, affordable, high-quality, accessible health care. These plans, having been implemented in six other states and operated for decades in Tennessee, offer farmers plans designed to meet their needs at a price they can afford from an institution they know and trust.

“I’m proud of what we do because I see the difference that it makes for our members,” said Sanders. “We cover over 100,000 members in Tennessee and our 98% retention rate tells me we’re doing something right.”

The bill was generally well received during the hearings, but concerns were raised in the committee about how the bill might impact plans offered under the Affordable Care Act, the lack of government oversight on the plans and how it might impact people with pre-existing conditions. The bill would generally exempt health plans offered by WFBF from regulation by the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) but includes safeguards to make sure risk taken on as part of the plans is covered by reinsurance, that the plans are fiscally sound and that consumer issues are handled properly. In other states, nine out of ten people who applied have been offered coverage and anyone with a pre-existing condition has guaranteed coverage under the Affordable Care Act whether the bill passes or not.

For more information on Farm Bureau Health Plans visit wfbf.com/wisconsin-farm-bureau-health-plans.

2024 Policy Book Available Online W

ant to know where Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation stands on an issue?

The 2024 policy book is available at wfbf.com.

The document reflects the most recent policy directives established by voting delegates at the 104th WFBF Annual Meeting in December.

“Farm Bureau’s policy is established by members through a structured policy development process,” said WFBF President Brad Olson. “It makes me proud that suggestions and policy ideas come directly from members at the county level.

Through this grassroots process Farm Bureau can work to represent its members’ needs. I encourage you to review our policy book and get involved in the process of policy development.”

To view the policy book online, visit wfbf.com/policy/policy-development.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Council of Presidents Meeting Brings Leaders to Madison

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation Director John Hromyak introduced himself to attendees and shared an update on the Foundation's work.

Carbon was the topic for the evening with Chris Harbourt, Chief Strategy Officer from Indigo Ag, as the featured speaker at the Council of Presidents meeting on Jan. 30.

Rock County Past President Jill Uhe shared the ins and outs of their Spring Planting Tour.

Manitowoc County President Brent Sinkula and Vice President Levi Bratt shared information about their county's STEM Event at Breakfast on the Farm.

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incentives and rewards to volunteers, agents and to county Farm Bureaus.

During the 2023 membership year, more than 160 Farm Bureau volunteers teamed up to sign a total of 653 new members into the organization. In addition, the Rural Insurance Agency Force signed up more than 3,800 new members.

Anyone can sign up a new Farm Bureau member, and all Farm Bureau membership volunteers qualify for a $20 cash incentive for every new member signed, as well as a series of western-themed membership prizes. Even if you’ve never signed a new member before, you can qualify for the incentives simply by signing up a friend or neighbor. For a membership application, go to wfbf.com/ membership and click on ‘Join’ or call 800.261.FARM to request a supply of membership applications. Prospective members can also sign up and pay their dues online at wfbf.com/membership/ application.

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arm Bureau’s annual membership campaign is underway, and volunteers across the state are asking friends, neighbors and co-workers to become members of Wisconsin’s largest and most influential general farm organization.

This year’s membership theme is Building a New Frontier, and the goal of this year’s campaign is to increase Farm Bureau’s membership base for the 16th time in the past 17 years.

Farm Bureau membership recruitment and retention efforts are carried out primarily by county Farm Bureau volunteers and Rural Mutual Insurance agents across the state. In support of these efforts, WFBF provides membership recruitment training, assists counties in organizing membership drives or other events focusing on membership recruitment; produces and distributes membership materials for use by county volunteers and Rural agents; and provides a series of

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2024 Membership Campaign Announced: Building a New Frontier!

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Grassroots in Action

Farm Bureau prides itself on being a grassroots organization. Members belong to one of the 61 county Farm Bureaus. Throughout the state, local members advocate for Farm Bureau and agriculture in a variety of ways. Here are some of the activities and projects happening locally.

Jefferson County Agriculture in the Classroom Meetings The Jefferson County Agriculture in the Classroom committee kicked off 2024 with two planning meetings that yielded four goals for the coming year. Those goals include working with second-grade classrooms to teach about the importance of agriculture, building strong participation in the fourth- and fifth-grade essay contest, having volunteers help with fourth grade farm tours in May and creating a local Career Fair directed at high school students that are interested in agriculture or ag-related business.

Sauk County Holiday Porch Pot Class In November, the Sauk County Farm Bureau Promotion and Education Committee hosted a new event for community members to create holiday porch pot arrangements. The event was targeted toward a non-ag audience and focused on a unique side of agriculture: horticulture. Tickets for the event were sold online and promoted in community Facebook groups and committee members' social media channels.

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Iowa County Safety Day

After a 25-year hiatus, Iowa County Farm Bureau partnered with the Iowa County 4-H Extension to form the Iowa County Safety Coalition, to reinstate the Iowa County Safety Day. The 2023 event was hosted on Sept. 26 with 255 Iowa County fifth-grade students in attendance. The Safety Day consisted of nine sessions that students rotated through, one of which focused on the importance of farm safety. Students also learned about animal safety and the dangers of UTV/ATVs, PTOs, vaping, lawn mowers, tornadoes and down power lines. Thanks to the hard work of volunteers, the event will once again be hosted annually.

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Buffalo County ‘Changing Hands’ Luncheon A large crowd of Farm Bureau members attended the ‘Changing Hands Luncheon’ in Arcadia on Dec. 12 at the Arcadia Country Club. This workshop featured information on tax implications and insurance needs of a farm in ownership transition. Buffalo County Farm Bureau board members Emily Kaltenberg and Jan Schaffner developed the activity to help farmers looking to transfer ownership of their operations. One of the goals of Farm Bureau is to provide educational benefits to our members. Organizers said the feedback from this event was great!

Chippewa County Chili Cook-off Chippewa County Farm Bureau’s inaugural Chili Cook off was a success. Local businesses were invited to bring chili including an ingredient grown in Chippewa County for a friendly competition. Community members were invited to attend the event to learn more about local agriculture and voted on their favorite chili in one of three categories: creativity, local ingredient and taste.

Clover Leaf Farm Supply was awarded the Golden Ladle as the overall winner with the best tasting chili.

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Fond du Lac County Honors Retiring Membership Chair Trayton Greenfield retired after serving as the Fond du Lac County membership chair for 50 years. Trayton was recognized for his years of service. Pictured from left: WFBF District 5 Director Kevin Krentz, Trayton Greenfield and Fond du Lac County President Reuben Hopp.

Dodge County Agriculture Story Time with Santa Dodge County Farm Bureau hosted ‘Ag Storytime with Santa’ as part of Christmas at Marsh Haven Nature Center.

Santa read “Farmer Dale helps Save Santa” followed by making Wisconsin Reindeer Food featuring corn, oats and cranberries. After Santa read the book, a brief explanation of these items and their importance to Wisconsin agriculture was shared.

Participants received an ‘Ag Swag Bag’ along with chugs of milk and farm-animal shaped cookies.

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Minutes With Fond du Lac County’s

LINDSAY FOWLER

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a mom to two awesome teenage boys, wife and partnerin-crime to my hubby and a co-owner on my family dairy farm.

I am a forever learner and enjoy attending events that allow me to better myself, personally and for the farm. I spread my wings through travels whenever possible (but not as often as I would like), otherwise I get myself lost in a book. I enjoy using my artsy talents when possible, being outdoors, attending my boys' events, spending time with family and many other things if there were more time!

What do you enjoy most about your career in agriculture?

It is most rewarding on the days when everyone comes together to get the work done. Running a farm truly takes a team. If we didn't have the team that we do, the work would be more intensive and it wouldn't carry the level of enjoyment that a team brings. I enjoy seeing the team working together and the fruits of SUPPLIED PHOTO our labor.

What is a success in your agriculture career that you are most proud of?

There are so many, but the first thing that came to mind was when all my work paid off and I was finally brought into ownership.

What are some of the challenges you face in your career in agriculture and how do you handle them?

The biggest challenge I have faced is working with family.

Perception is not always correct and being willing to look at situations from others' perspectives has taught me a lot. I feel I handle tough situations better today than I did 10 years ago. I have attended many conferences that have allowed me to work on my role in those interactions. I aim to be kind, open-minded, willing to listen and respond accordingly.

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SUPPLIED PHOTO

What is one agriculture experience that has defined you and why?

I had to leave the farm for 10 years to realize my passion and pride for what we do. Coming back to the farm after the time away, I feel, has been a defining moment for me. Sometimes to value something, some time away will teach the true value.

What is a Farm Bureau experience that you are most proud of and why?

My experience with Farm Bureau is Leadership Institute. I really miss my classmates during our time away. The content in the sessions has filled my cup in ways I didn't know that I needed.

What is something that most Farm Bureau members would not know about you?

I spent a short stint in college with an Air Force ROTC scholarship and thoroughly enjoyed my short time spent with the military.

I have a great amount of respect for what our military men and women do for the country and its people.

Why are you proud to be a Farm Bureau member?

The more I learn, the prouder I become! In the Leadership Institute, we learn so much on policy side of Farm Bureau. The education opportunities are amazing. The support of mental health for members is huge and helps bring balance back when times get tough. At this point, I want to keep learning more!

What advice do you have for new Farm Bureau members or those looking to get more involved?

Attend a few events and find your niche! Learn the history of what brought Farm Bureau to what it is today and find a way to share your strengths to help keep moving it forward!

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

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MEMBER BENEFITS

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Introduces New Member Benefits W

isconsin Farm Bureau is excited to announce new agreements with KEY Apparel and the Food Finance Institute to offer two additional, exclusive member benefits.

“Wisconsin Farm Bureau continues to grow an already strong line up of money-saving member benefits,” said WFBF President Brad Olson. “We are excited to unveil two new

agreements that will add even more value to Farm Bureau memberships.”

For more information about these benefits or to learn more about other discounts and incentives, visit wfbf.com/ membership/member-benefits.

FOOD FINANCE INSTITUTE KEY APPAREL DISCOUNT

New changes in the food industry are rapidly increasing expectations for all food and value-added farm enterprises. Old or young, big or small, businesses are scrambling to become more financially resilient and capable of adapting quickly.

The Food Finance Institute helps food and farm businesses raise the money they need to grow through valuable training opportunities.

WFBF members can now SAVE 20% on Food Finance Institute’s Farm Financial Management Boot Camp, Scenario Planning and Raising Equity trainings.

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With 110 years of experience in the workwear clothing industry, KEY Apparel provides reliable workwear for rugged use and office-wear at the best value.

WFBF members can now SAVE UP TO 20% on online purchases with free shipping on orders over $75. Members also have access to the KEY Business Design Lab to add Farm Bureau logos or create custom-branded KEY apparel for your farm or business.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Get the

MOST out of

EVERY DOLLAR with your

FARM BUREAU MEMBER BENEFITS Wisconsin Farm Bureau members qualify for a variety of membership benefits and discounts that serve the needs of farmers, families and businesses in Wisconsin.

Rural Mutual Insurance Company

Member Protector Policy Learn more about your Farm Bureau member benefit savings by scanning the QR code or visiting wfbf.com/membership/member-benefits. *WFBF member benefits may be changed or discontinued at any time without notice.*

VOICES

Embracing the New Frontier A Message from WFBF's Brad Olson

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e’ve just kicked off a new year but I can guarantee you that no ball is being dropped here at Wisconsin Farm Bureau. We’ve hit the ground running in 2024 and just returned from the American Farm Bureau Convention more motivated than ever to move Wisconsin agriculture forward.

As your newly elected president of Wisconsin Farm Bureau, I am excited for the year ahead.

For those I haven’t met yet, I, and my wife Vicky, live near Frederic; we have two grown children and two grandsons.

Vicky works off the farm and I grow crops and do some custom work with my son. We are fortunate to have both our

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children and grandsons living close by.

In the summer and early fall, when not farming, you will find our whole family bear hunting.

I have spent almost 20 years on my town board, 8 years on the Polk County Board of Supervisors, Chair the Polk County Unit of the Wisconsin Towns Association, sit on our local Fire and Ambulance board and serve as WFBF District 9 Director.

While my Farm Bureau story is just getting started, I can reassure you that no one is more dedicated to the success of WFBF but also your success on the farm and protecting our farming heritage in Wisconsin.

I look forward to meeting as many of you in the coming year. I also want to share some insights and goals I have for 2024. Specifically, some initiatives the WFBF Board is working on.

As a group, the WFBF Board will review our policy book to set top priorities and secondary ones. This in no way means we will not be focusing on the other policies within our book, it is simply a matter of giving a few more attention and giving clarity to our staff in providing areas of focus.

In addition to our focused policy efforts, we will be looking at ways to keep you, our members, better informed. We want you to know in a timely manner what WFBF has accomplished as well as

what we are working on for you. Some of these ideas are in the works, and you will hear about them soon.

For those of you who attended the WFBF Annual Meeting and heard from our succession planning speaker you heard firsthand how planning for and embracing the future is going to look different. This year we have different presidents and vice presidents for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau and Rural Mutual Insurance Company Board.

Please know that while this is a change, the bond between our organization and company is as strong today as ever, and will remain that way. While roles are different, the same people are working collaboratively to ensure the success of agriculture in Wisconsin.

It’s an honor and privilege for myself and the entire WFBF Board to represent you as we work to keep agriculture strong now and into the future. I encourage you to reach out to your WFBF Board District Director to give input on challenges you are facing and any ideas you have for the future.

Farm Bureau is your organization.

With your help we will keep WFBF and all agriculture strong into the future.

Olson was elected President of Wisconsin Farm Bureau in 2023. He is a crop farmer near Frederic in Polk County.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Communication is Hard

A Message from WFBF's Amy Eckelberg

I

wanted to work in communications ever since I first heard about the major while attending a freshman orientation event at UW-Green Bay. I remember joking around with my dad and saying, “It’s basically talking, how hard could it be.”

Man, am I eating those words today.

Throughout college and now my career, I've learned that communication is no laughing matter, and it is no doubt more than just talking. Communication is hard. I like to remind those around me of this often.

In my role I oversee the Wisconsin Farm Bureau communications team.

We have some fantastic individuals with some serious talent working on your behalf. Even with a robust team and

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a diverse skill set, we still sometimes struggle to keep up with the amount of things we need to share and the variety of communication methods that can be used to do so.

I am proud of our strategic approach and how we have been able to advance through the years. When I first started at WFBF 11 years ago, we had just made our Facebook and Twitter accounts. It is mind blowing to think how much communication changes in such a short amount of time.

An interesting part about Farm Bureau is the variety of people it brings together. We have a handful of ages, a variety of farming types and a variety of communication preferences.

We try to accommodate our diverse audience as much as we can.

We continue to have printed pieces such as newsletters, postcards and Rural Route. We have three websites to hold information for anytime access: wfbf.com, wisagclassroom.org and gatherwisconsin.com. We have a variety of email-based newsletters such as Ag Newswire, Policy Pulse and Stewards.

We also leverage social media and have a specific strategy just on that portion of our communications.

We’ve dug in the past few years to try and really define our audiences.

One space that we knew needed more attention was the consumer audience.

Last year we launched the Gather Wisconsin brand with a website tailored

towards a consumer audience. We leverage social media here too. Since we are focused on non-Farm Bureau members with this brand the following has been growing slow but steady. And our preliminary results tell us we are talking to people outside of agriculture.

That’s exciting!

We have a lot of things to talk about at WFBF. Whether it’s legislative impacts, leadership development, programming or benefits, we do our best to get the word out in a timely manner and hope that you engage as much as possible too.

You can help us out by giving us feedback. Do you like the pieces you receive in the mail? Do you open your weekly Ag Newswire email? Do you like and share things from our Facebook page?

We are excited that we will soon have a membership database that will help us communicate even more effectively.

Data is a critical part of communication, and we are excited that we may have this upgrade by the summer of 2024.

If only I would have known what I was signing up for all those years ago when selecting a college major. Communication is definitely more than talking. Just like in farming, it can be challenging and rewarding all in one.

Eckelberg is WFBF’s Executive Director of Public Relations.

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VOICES

Embracing New Frontiers

A Message from AFBF's Zippy Duvall

W

e have just wrapped up our 105th American Farm Bureau Convention in Salt Lake City, and I am so grateful for the time we had as a Farm Bureau family to look to new frontiers in our organization and across agriculture.

There’s nothing like gathering, exploring innovative solutions, and tackling challenges together to energize us for the year ahead.

I felt that energy across our convention, from the trade show to our inspiring speakers to our robust policy discussions as we set priorities for the coming year.

Farmers and ranchers are always looking to make each season better than the last, and the AFBF Convention helps us achieve that goal for our farms, our families and our communities.

Throughout the week, we hosted training opportunities and workshops to equip members and help them take their leadership and advocacy to the next level.

We celebrated innovative and engaging programs from our county Farm Bureaus

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and recognized our outstanding Young Farmers and Ranchers through our competitive events.

One of my favorite parts of the convention is getting to walk the Trade Show floor and meet members from across our Farm Bureau family. The Trade Show is the place to be—and you could tell by the lines of folks just waiting for those doors to open each morning.

It’s also a place to give back, a value we share across our organization. This year, the Utah Farm Bureau organized the Miracle of Ag service project where event attendees helped to fill over 5,000 boxes of food for families facing hunger.

We kicked off convention by reigniting our advocacy on the farm bill. Farm Bureau led the way in 2023 calling for action, from working with groups across food, agriculture, conservation and nutrition to rallying our grassroots advocates. And thanks to those efforts, we did see a temporary extension to protect farm programs for now. While we are grateful for that extension and understand that Congress needs to address the budget, we also know that we cannot afford further delays when it comes to the farm bill. We are inviting folks to send a resounding message to Congress to deliver a new farm bill for our farms and our country. The road to a new farm bill has become longer than any of us would have liked, but together we can see it through.

We were also honored to welcome Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack—a fellow Farm Bureau member—to our convention again this year. He met with all our state leaders to take our policy questions head on, and then he addressed all our attendees at our

closing session. He is a humble leader and his commitment to agriculture shines through in his work. I am grateful for how our friendship has grown over the years.

The hallmark of our annual convention, however, is our voting delegate business session where our grassroots policy making process is in action. At Farm Bureau, our members establish our policies, which rise from the county level to our state conventions and on to the national stage. At our delegate meeting each year we ensure our policy continues to reflect the views of farmers and ranchers across the country. We also saw this year that our delegates remain overwhelmingly family farmers who operate the full range of farm sizes, with almost two-thirds operating small and mid-sized farms. I look forward to taking these priorities back to Washington. This is how we continue to work towards new frontiers in agriculture. I am thankful for the hard work and dedication of our members and delegates as they set our direction for 2024, engage in their communities, and provide the leadership to ensure a bright future for agriculture.

I also want to take a moment to say a genuine thank you for the honor of being reelected as your American Farm Bureau President. It is a true privilege, and I look forward to continuing to serve you. As I mentioned in my keynote address, I see such a bright future for 2024 and I am excited to take on new frontiers together.

President of the American Farm Bureau Federation, Duvall raises beef cattle, hay and poultry in Greshamville, Georgia.

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Spotlight on YFA

Get to know the members who are leading Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist Program.

Heather Erdman, District 4 WFBF YFA Committee Representative Farm Bureau member since 2019 Why do you value your Farm Bureau membership?

I value my Farm Bureau membership because it has brought me so many new experiences and friendships. Farm Bureau has become part of my family.

It's easy to be a member of an organization that advocates for farmers and agriculturists. Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization and is the voice for all of us at the local, state and national levels. When you are farming, it is easier to want to leave the farm if it is for something productive. Knowing that we are making a difference while attending Farm Bureau events and meetings makes it easier to step away from home.

What would you tell YFA members about getting involved in the YFA program?

My favorite Farm Bureau program thus far has been the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Leadership Institute.

Take the time! No ‘farm’, no problem. The Young Farmer and Agriculturists program is not only for farmers. It is for everyone and anyone who is passionate about agriculture and under 35.

We all have busy schedules and there always needs to be more time in the day, but taking the time to invest in an organization that has our best interests in mind is easy. It is crucial for young farmers and agriculturists to get involved. We are passionate and ambitious about agriculture. If we aren't getting involved and telling our stories, somebody else will. The YFA program offers so many opportunities for personal growth, advocacy, training, networking, etc. Don't let this opportunity pass by!

Erdman Family

Leadership Institute Class in front of Mt. Vernon.

What has been your favorite Farm Bureau program/event/ etc. and why?

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Leadership Institute was my first state level involvement. Even just applying for the Institute was out of my comfort zone.

During this leadership program I learned a lot about personal growth. We covered several different training topics which we used during our end-of-class trip to Washington, D.C., where we met with legislators. I gained knowledge and skills to use at the county Farm Bureau level and am grateful for the opportunities that the Leadership Institute has given me. The friendships that I made through this experience are ones that I will have forever.

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With Clara Hedrich

Building a New Frontier with Wisconsin Agri-tourism

H

ave you ever thought, ‘’if they only understood’...

In my role with agri-tourism at LaClare Family Creamery and as serving as vice president of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association, I have had the opportunity to work with consumers firsthand. What I have learned is today’s consumer really wants to know how their food is produced and where it comes from. They want to meet the people who grow and raise their food. Consumers want experiences that immerse them in agriculture and they are willing to pay for those experiences. The most popular experiences are hands-on experiences with animals. Today’s typical consumer is three to five generations removed from the family farm. The main reason we started our “Meet Your Local Farmer Day” program in Calumet County about eight years ago was to give the consumer who had no direct ties to agriculture the opportunity to set their feet on a working farm and to meet the farmer.

Consumers often say that one of the most trusted sources of information regarding agriculture is the farmer.

As we close out our financial records for 2023 and continue making plans for 2024, a question that arises is how we can add the greatest value to the bottom line of our farm business, especially for the small to medium sized farms. Does adding agri-tourism to the business model make sense?

Wisconsin is known as America’s agricultural tourism destination. Agri-tourism can add financial sustainability to your farm. Agri-tourism takes your passion for agriculture, ties it in with your willingness to educate the consumer or your neighbor about agriculture which offers value-added income to your operation.

When developing your business plan for agri-tourism consider what will your focus be, what’s your story, what’s unique about what you have to offer and how you will market your destination. Working with other agri-tourism businesses in your area strengthens everyone. It provides more opportunities for the consumer to keep them in your community longer and causes them to return which adds to everyone’s bottom line.

The Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association has many resources available for you to start your new agri-tourism business. It has just received a USDA grant called Growing

Wisconsin; food, specialty crops and agricultural tourism development; galvanizing WI. This grant will allow WATA to significantly increase the educational resources for family farms interested in entering or expanding agricultural tourism efforts. This includes a mentorship program, video “Learning to do, doing to learn, resources and earning to live, living to serve” building on key collaborations across the state and nationwide. Another major goal of this grant project is to make it easier for individuals, families and groups to find farm-based adventures throughout the state.

Check out the website at wiagtourism.com.

Depending on your focus, most agri-tourism operations are open May-October, but Wisconsin has two amazing agritourism centers that are open year-round. The Wisconsin Farm Discovery Center located in Manitowoc and The Food + Farm Exploration Center located in Plover.

I am a former high school agriculture instructor and FFA advisor. The FFA motto “learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, living to serve” truly helps one wrap their mind around agri-tourism in your community. Agri-tourism offers our consumers the opportunity to be immersed in agriculture to truly understand what and why you do what you do. Thus, giving them the background to make informed decisions about their food supply along with local, state and national rules and regulations surrounding their food supply. Agri-tourism gives the farm an added revenue stream allowing farm sustainability and the opportunity for the current and next generation to use their skills.

Agri-tourism not only serves the consumer and the farmer but it helps support our communities.

Agri-tourism is not a new concept. It has been around for many decades but are we at a point at which agriculture is a new frontier for our consumers? Are you up for helping to build this new frontier of educating our consumers through hands-on agricultural experiences? If yes, consider thinking about how you can embrace agri-tourism on your farm.

Clara Hedrich is the District 6 representative on the WFBF Promotion and Education Committee. Clara, along with her husband and four of their five adult children, founded LaClare Family Creamery in Malone specializing in goat milk cheeses.

The Promotion and Education Committee is a dynamic group of Farm Bureau leaders who develop, implement and promote programs that build agricultural awareness and provide leadership development to the agricultural community.

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Promotion and Education Program

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

AROUND THE TABLE Visit gatherwisconsin.com for more recipes.

Skillet Ziti with Ground Pork Courtesy of the National Pork Board, Des Moines, Iowa.

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

• 12 oz. ground pork lean • 8 oz. penne pasta whole grain, about 3 c.

• 3 c. spicy tomato pasta sauce OR plain tomato-basil pasta sauce • 2/3 c. low fat ricotta cheese • 3 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese (OR Asiago cheese, freshly grated)

1. C ook pasta in large saucepan with unsalted water according to package directions. Drain well.

2. Meanwhile, cook ground pork over medium-high heat in large, nonstick skillet for about 3 minutes or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees, breaking pork into 3/4-inch crumbles. Drain and discard any juices.

3. Add hot pasta to ground pork in skillet.

Stir in pasta sauce and ricotta cheese.

Cover and cook over medium-high heat until hot, stirring occasionally.

4. Sprinkle with grated cheese and serve.

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Stack

Recipe courtesy of Wisconsin Cheese. Photo courtesy of Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.

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INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

• 1 can (15 oz.) enchilada sauce (about 2 c.)

• 1 tsp. each of onion powder, chili powder and ground cumin • 2 cans (16 oz. each) pinto beans, rinsed and drained • 1 medium green pepper, chopped • 2 c. cooked chicken, shredded • 1 c. frozen corn • 6 flour tortillas (8 in.)

• 12 oz Renard's Pepper Jack cheese, shredded and divided (3 cups) • Chopped fresh cilantro, salsa and sour cream

1. Fold two 24 x 12-inch pieces of aluminum foil in half lengthwise. Place pieces crosswise, overlapping to resemble a ‘X’, in the bottom and up sides of a 5-quart slow cooker; allow excess foil to hang over the edges. Coat pieces with cooking spray.

2. Whisk the enchilada sauce, onion powder, chili powder and cumin in a large bowl. Stir in the beans, green pepper, chicken and corn.

3. Place a tortilla on the bottom of slow cooker.

Layer with 1 1/2 cups chicken mixture and 1/2 cup pepper jack. Repeat layers four times, starting with a tortilla. Top with remaining tortilla and pepper jack.

4. Fold excess foil into slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours (or on high for 2 1/2-3 hours) or until heated through. Turn slow cooker off. Let stand for 10 minutes.

5. Using excess foil as handles, carefully lift tortilla stack to a serving platter. Sprinkle with cilantro. Serve with salsa and sour cream. wfbf.com

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5 Tips for Managing the Winter Blues

By Cassie Sonnentag By the time winter solstice occurs in the middle of December, we are already well-acquainted with the change in season in Wisconsin.

The winter season brings along its own set of challenges for those of us on the farm; equipment takes longer to start; more layers are necessary before walking to the barn and let’s not get started with the ongoing battle of cold and flu season.

Shorter days and weather changes can lower your energy and make you feel blue, which also are classic symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression triggered by daylight and weather changes that commonly occurs during the winter.

Symptoms of SAD are often triggered by a disruption in the body’s circadian rhythm, our biological time clock that regulates how our bodies function during sleep and waking hours. Common signs and symptoms of SAD include: • A seasonal feeling of depression that happens most of the day, every day.

• Tiredness or low energy.

• Loss of interest in activities you typically enjoy.

• Weight and appetite changes.

• Changes in sleep pattern.

If you find yourself experiencing symptoms of SAD, it is important to remember you are not alone. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, about 4% to 6% of Americans have SAD, while as many as 20% experience a mild form of it, often referred to as ‘the winter blues.’

If you are struggling with the winter blues, here are a few tips to help manage your symptoms: 1. Prioritize social activities: Studies have found a relationship between depression and social isolation.

Stay connected with others during the winter months by scheduling a casual hangout, visiting friends and relatives or getting off the farm with a loved one.

2. Stick to a schedule: For those of us caring for animals, chores may already keep you on a schedule; however, those experiencing SAD often have trouble falling and staying asleep at night or waking up in the morning. Maintaining a routine schedule has been shown to improve sleep and alleviate seasonal depression symptoms.

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3. G et your body moving: Exercise is one of the most effective ways to alleviate depression symptoms.

Walking outdoors when the weather allows is an easy way to boost your energy and release endorphins.

If bad weather is limiting your outdoor activity, try simple exercises such as sit-ups, crunches or push-ups that do not require additional equipment in the home.

4. G et sunshine when you can: Get outside as much as you can to take advantage of the daylight hours. When indoors, let in as much natural light as possible by keeping shades and curtains open throughout the day.

5. T alk with your doctor: While mild cases of the winter blues are common, SAD is a form of depression.

Seek the help of a mental health professional or your physician if you are showing signs or symptoms of SAD. For additional resources to manage your mental health, visit Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Mental Health Resources page under the Rural Resilience program tab.

Farm Neighbors Care is a campaign to support our farmers who are facing stress due to low market prices, poor weather and crop conditions, etc. Farming can be an isolating career, especially if other family members work off the farm. It is important to check in on your friends, neighbors and family members to gauge how they are doing and offer support and a listening ear.

The campaign asks rural residents to have face-to-face conversations with farmers and agri-business owners. For some, this conversation and check-in may be the dose of positivity needed to make it through a tough day.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

wfbf.com

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N CAMPUS with Collegiate Farm Bureau Name: Ashlyn Sarbacker College: UW-Platteville Year in School: Senior Major: Dairy Science with an Agribusiness emphasis

Officer Position: President Hometown: Stoughton Why did you join Collegiate Farm Bureau?

I joined the UW-Platteville Collegiate Farm Bureau to broaden my professional skills, serve as a voice for agriculture and help educate others about the world of agriculture and all it entails.

What has UW-Platteville Collegiate Farm Bureau done on campus this school year and what is coming up for the spring semester?

During the fall semester, UW-Platteville Collegiate Farm Bureau held its Annual Brag About Ag event, recruited new members at the Fall Involvement Fair and attended the Ag Fest to promote our chapter to the School of Agriculture and students. A new fundraiser we implemented was Culver’s Share Night where we delivered meals to customers inside the restaurant and in the drive-thru. We hope to do this again in the future.

Upcoming events for the spring semester include the Spring Involvement Fair, ice skating in Dubuque, Ag Day on Campus and another fundraiser.

SUPPLIED PHOTOS

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

wfbf.com

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Leeza Kostka, Strum

Ashley Dehnke Schulner, Fall Creek

Morgan Lobdell, Mineral Point

Sarah Wolters, Belmont

Chris Cieszynski-Mommaerts, Eagle

Julie Digman, Harrisville

Hallie Rehn, Cecil

Send us YOUR Photos

Wisconsin Farm Bureau members live and work with beautiful landscapes and livestock. On this page we highlight those sights and special moments.

Please email your best photos (high resolution jpgs at 300 dpi) to Lsiekmann@wfbf.com. Due to the high volume of photos we receive, we are unable to publish every photo. Photos sent in may be used in other WFBF publications.

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

wfbf.com

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AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Essay Contest Giveaway

T

he Annual Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom Essay Contest for 2024 has a new incentive for schools to participate. One fortunate school, chosen randomly from the participants, will receive a Fork Farm Flex Farm hydroponic grow system. The contest is open to students in both public and private Wisconsin schools, challenging fourth and fifth graders to explore Wisconsin fruit production and processing under the theme ‘Wisconsin Agriculture is Fruit-Full.’

The essay deadline is April 15 and entries can be submitted online or directly to a county Farm Bureaus. Each qualifying entry serves as one entry for the giveaway drawing, scheduled for the week of May 20, 2024. Complete contest details and rules are available at wisagclassroom.org.

The giveaway is made possible through the support of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation and Fork Farms, the creator of the Flex Farm system. Additionally, educators have a chance to win the Flex Farm by participating in ‘Fruit Fest’ at Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center. This event provides educators with insights into hydroponic plant production and integrating agriculture into core subjects such as science, social studies and English language arts.

More information about the event can be found at farmwisconsin.org/event/ fruit-fest-teacher-workshop.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Outstanding Teacher Award Winner Named O

n Friday mornings the literate because they will eventually Fennimore Elementary become consumers,” stated Emily in her gymnasium is filled with application. “Being agriculturally literate students, staff and community will allow these future consumers to make members who gather for the more informed decisions on food, goods, weekly all-school assembly to jobs, the environment, the economy and honor student achievements and their health.” share important announcements.

Her classroom success has spilled into But on Friday, Dec. 8, a BIG summer school, as Kamps developed two surprise was in store for thirdnew courses for K-8 students to explore grade teacher, Emily Kamps. agriculture through careers, STEM and Emily was surprised with literature. the 2023 Outstanding Teacher Emily hopes these extra enrichment Award. The Outstanding courses will build student awareness Teacher Award honors K-12 of the diverse opportunities for careers educators who work to in agriculture and increase the number enhance student learning and of students who enroll in agriculture achievement in core subjects education courses. while increasing student “Seeing what my students learn awareness and understanding of through my agriculture incorporation is Emily Kamps, Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom the important role agriculture very rewarding. It encourages me to do 2023 Outstanding Teacher Award Winner. plays in students’ daily lives. more and find new ways to make that Emily was nominated by Grant County Farm Bureau Ag in learning fun and educational,” said Emily. “I hope that some of the Classroom Chair Jessica Brogley. For the past three years, my students will decide on the agriculture field because of what Emily has brought agricultural literacy into her classroom by they learned while in my classroom.” integrating agriculture topics into weekly themes – including Kamps received a commemorative award and prize packaged ‘Wisconsin Wednesdays.’ Kamps has connected agriculture into valued at more than $1,700 and will represent Wisconsin as almost every core subject allowing her students to improve their the state’s nominee for the Excellence in Teaching About reading, writing and problem-solving skills through partnerships Agriculture Award Program presented by the U.S. Department with Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom, Adopt-A-Cow of Agriculture’s Ag in the Classroom program. The award classroom program as well as local farms and agri-businesses. program is supported by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau “I believe it is important for all students to be agriculturally Foundation.

Emily’s students have experienced agriculture in their community if a variety of lessons and activities.

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

Kamps’ family helped to orchestrate the surprise and made sure she was at school for the award presentation. wfbf.com

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FOUNDATION

For the Love of Wisconsin Agriculture

2023 Foundation Support Helped Important Programs Flourish

I

n 2023 the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation proudly continued its support of many important agricultural education and leadership programs across the state. As a nonprofit, the Foundation relies on the generous partnership of donors like you to ensure programs are accessible to our future ag leaders and consumers.

Because of our community of donors, programming supported by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation reached new milestones this year, including: • Agriculture in the Classroom communications and inperson programming reached more than 1,000 educators and an estimated 67,900 students.

• The 15th Leadership Institute class convened, preparing leaders of all ages to become actively engaged in their county

Farm Bureaus, communities and beyond.

• O ur Young Farmer and Agriculturist program held 20 networking, social and educational events, engaging more than 500 YFA members.

• Events and educational opportunities held through our Sustainability Initiatives shared insights, lessons and opportunities with members and their communities.

• The Promotion and Education Committee established long-term priorities around their initiatives, including their Leadership Boot Camp training series.

• O ur Farm Neighbors Care program continued outreach to farmers, their families and communities, emphasizing the importance of wellness and mental health.

Thank you for being pa rt of a successful yea r!

Thank You

• Dan & Anna Adams • Dave & Kim Daniels • Jeff & Mary Fuller • Pearl Mary Goetsch • B en & Bette Harbach

to the Following WFB Foundation Donors: (Donations were made between Dec. 5, 2023, and Jan. 29, 2024)

• Raini Helm • Dennis & Leda Jahnke • Christine Ketterhagen • David Kruschke • Peter & Terry Ogden

• TJ & Katie Roth • James & Nodji Van Wychen • Rock County Farm Bureau in memory of Darlene Nyman • Laurie Groskopf in memory of Darlene Nyman Aly Sosnovske

• Kenneth Rosenow in memory of Henry Rosenow, Jr • David Kruschke in memory of Darlene Nyman Sue Thelen

• John & Carol Hosmann • Randy & Sonya Huebner • Tyrone Johnson • Jane Lokken • Jeff & Karen Lyon • Lynne Maslowski • Paul & Susan Miller • Arch Morton, Jr • Marlin & Lois Mueller • John & Nancy Reifsteck

• Bruce & Mary Rosenau • Sharon Schaefer • Donald & Helen Seibel • Gerald Shay • Carolyn Small • Loren & Ruth Wolfe • Greg & Irma Zwald • Perry Goetsch • Sally Schoenike • Wayne & Mary Staidl

In Memory of Jim Holte • C ommon Sense Ag Services, LLC • TJR Management LLC • Urban Style, LLC • Tony & Karla Adkison • Tom & Jill Bennwitz • Dean Bergseng • A nthony & Kristina Bourget • A llen, Karin & Brian Douglas 44

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• Lowell & Jodie Falde • Kathryn Freitag • Scott & Valerie Gaffney • David Geiser • David & Mary Gilbertson • Nancy Guebert • Brandon & Karen Gullicksrud • Eric & Cheryl Gullicksrud • Bill & Nancy Hanson

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

RURAL MUTUAL

The Benefits of Bundling Insurance Y ou know Rural Mutual Insurance as the #1 farm insurer in Wisconsin, but we also offer a variety of other insurance products including home, auto, business and life. Whether you are a farmer, business owner, homeowner or renter, we provide people from all over the state of Wisconsin with the exact coverage they need year after year. Bundling your insurance with one company makes it efficient and simple, reducing the stress that accompanies insurance for many Americans.

Here are some reasons why you should consider bundling your insurance policies.

Bundling Saves You Money It’s true, buying multiple insurance policies from the same company can make a difference in terms of how much you pay.

Consolidating multiple policies through one insurance company can help reduce your premium costs, depending on the types and number of policies purchased. When you bundle multiple policies, you receive a discounted rate that is often lower than what you would pay if you bought each policy separately.

For example, with a Rural Mutual multi-policy, you can save when you bundle your home, life, farm or country estate insurance with your personal auto insurance. Other discounts available include multi-vehicle, good student, claims free, new acquisition and pay plan. Discounts are one way to thank our customers for choosing us as their sole insurance provider. To learn more about what discounts you may qualify for, contact a Rural Mutual agent.

Bundling Provides Convenience and Peace Of Mind Bundling insurance policies under a single roof allows you the convenience of having a single point of contact with the same agent every time you have a question, need to make a change or need to submit a claim.

Additionally, buying multiple policies from the same insurance company is easier than investing in separate policies from different companies. Not only does it make managing your coverage easier, but it also simplifies your billing and payment options. Policies can be managed from the same online account making it easy to view your policies, submit a claim and pay your bill in just a few clicks.

Another advantage of bundling is the streamlined claims process it offers. In the unfortunate event of a claim, having bundled policies means you only need to contact one insurance provider. This simplifies the claims process, saving you time and effort. Our dedicated claims team is ready to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and efficient claims experience.

When it comes to managing your insurance coverage, consolidating policies under one provider offers a range of benefits that can make your life easier. We believe in offering the best value for all your insurance. Find out how bundling insurance with Rural Mutual can help lower your costs by contacting your local agent to request a free quote. Our agents know our products inside and out and take time to understand your priorities to design a bundle that best fits your needs.

Protect Yourself: Don’t Delay Software Updates H

ow do you react when you’re notified of a software update? Do you update immediately?

Do you postpone?

It’s best practice to install software updates on your devices to fix security risks. This can be on your phone’s software or app updates.

Let’s be honest, it’s easy to click or tap “Remind me later” – but should you really put it off ?

Update Software for Safety Truthfully, you should think twice before delaying a software update. While it might seem trivial, keeping software up to date is an easy way to stay safer online.

• Turn on automatic updates – Automatic updates make the software update process convenient. Search for “automatic updates” under the device’s settings.

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024

• Watch for notifications – Not every update can be delivered or installed automatically. Devices – cell phones, tablets, laptops – usually notify you that updates need to be run. It’s important to install all updates, especially for web browsers and antivirus software.

• I nstall updates as soon as possible – When notified about software updates, especially critical updates, install them as soon as possible. Cyber criminals won’t wait, so neither should you.

Update Software Promptly If a cybercriminal gets into a device through a security flaw, they will look for personal information and sensitive data to exploit. Technology providers “patch” security weak spots as quickly as possible – but you must install updates to be protected.

Software updates can also: • Fix bugs • Improve performance • Install the latest features wfbf.com

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Retirement Planning for Farm Families W

hen a farmer retires, they don’t just turn in the keys.

Just like farming is a unique occupation, so is farm retirement and how you plan for it. Oftentimes when we go into retirement-thinking mode, we worry about what happens next. We ask ourselves, ‘Can I afford it?’, ‘Will I have enough money to do what I want in retirement?’, ‘Who will continue my legacy?’. These questions take time and a significant amount of planning to answer. The sooner you address them, the earlier you will be able to retire.

Folks with a 9-to-5 job, may own their home or a few other assets, but a vast majority of their savings are liquid in the form of a 401K, retirement savings or bank accounts.

With farms, if you have excess capital, it’s usually put into land, machinery, animals and other ways to continue to grow the business. It does pose some challenges because you can have several million dollars of net worth, but only $2,000 in the bank.

Liquidity is a big concern for retirement and cash flow.

There are two things to keep in mind as you make retirement plans: 1. What do you envision for your next phase in life?

2. How much money do you need to live comfortably in your new chapter?

Mental Preparation The transition from farming to retirement can be very difficult for many people. It is not an easy switch to turn from working seven days a week to not. You need to ease into it a little bit. Many people starting retirement conversations are encouraged to be prepared to have a seasonal job. They need to have something to do.

The next phase of the farm is going to be different for everyone. Retiring farmers may choose to liquidate assets and sell the farm, rent out the farm for additional income, transition the farm to the next generation or a combination. If you choose to transition the farm, having the right succession plan in place early on will ensure your wishes are met and help prepare your farm for the next generation of owners whether they’re in the family or not.

Budget Preparation The amount of money you’re going to need to retire will depend on the decision you make about the future of the farm.

Hobbies, travel plans and if you’re going to have a part-time job will also influence your budget. After you envision what you want your retirement to look like, then you’ll need to look at your new monthly expenses and create a budget.

1. Farmers are asked to consider monthly costs tied to the farm that may change upon retirement. This could include: • Mortgage: Will you move off the farm? Will you buy or rent a home?

• Home Utilities: Were these blended with the farm before? Get an accurate estimate.

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• Health Insurance: Was this previously covered by the farm business? Budget for Medicare or supplemental insurance and consider Long Term Care Insurance. Keep in mind that time in retirement is often not equally as active or healthy. A monthly estimate of costs of living across three decades is too simplistic. But it’s a start.

2. Budget the costs that are not monthly, such as trips, workshops or other things you’ve been dreaming of doing in retirement.

3. Allocate those costs across different stages of retirement.

For some, this may result in financial gaps.

It’s recommended to map out where income is coming from over a 10-year period, such as from a particular asset that was sold, social security or a seasonal job. Consider the variations of income from these different sources. For example, there may be an incentive to delay social security or you may be penalized for early withdrawal of a 401K. An area that is difficult to estimate is the impact that inflation will have on expenses and incomes.

You’re not alone in planning for the next phase of your life.

Having a trusted third-party familiar with retirement planning can make it easier to have those tough conversations and guide you through everything that needs to be covered.

No matter where you are in your retirement journey, Rural Mutual Insurance agents can help. The sooner you get started, the sooner you can kick back and start enjoying some welldeserved rest and relaxation.

Connect with Rural Mutual Insurance @RuralMutual @RuralMutual @Rural.Mutual @Rural Mutual Insurance Company www.RuralMutual.com WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION