Rural Route June | July 2022

Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION®'S

JUNE | JULY 2022 • VOL. 28 NO. 3 | WFBF.COM

Farm Bureau Leaders Reflect on Their Journey into Agriculture Page 15

FAMILY TRADITION Rides Strong at La Fleur Stables

Page 12

contents vol. 28 no. 3

10

12

12

15

18

15

24

26

31

18

31

34

38

44

stay connected

JUNE | JULY 2022

44 WIFarmBureau

A FAMILY TRADITION

La Fleur Stables has been a family business since 1965.

IN THEIR BLOOD

Three Farm Bureau leaders share their journey in agriculture.

FOOD WASTE

Learn tips and tricks to reduce food and water waste.

5 MINUTES

Get to know Grant County’s Jessica Brogley.

VOICES

Columns from Krentz, Duvall and Boryc Smock.

FARM BUREAU FLAVOR

Govin’s Farm shares some of its favorite strawberry recipes.

GRASSROOTS IN ACTION

Read what Farm Bureau members are up to in their communities.

PICTURE THIS

Meet some of Farm Bureau’s youngest members and cutest farm hands.

41

38

EXTENSION

Learn what Extension can offer you and your family.

AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Read the 2022 winning essay and meet the nine district winners.

RURAL MUTUAL

Tips to help protect your home from summer storms.

COVER PHOTO BY LYNN SIEKMANN

ONLINE LIBRARY

Read our previous issues at wfbf.com/read.

wfbf.com

3

Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION’S

EDITOR’S NOTE

E

veryone’s connection to agriculture is different. For some, it’s a generational investment they have in a family farm. For others, they might be generations removed from the farm but attend a farm market regularly because they appreciate fresh products on their dinner table. Or maybe they always attend a local dairy breakfast each June as a family tradition or plant a large garden.

It doesn’t really matter what connects you to agriculture as long as you have a connection, right?

Maybe that’s oversimplifying but I truly think that as long as you are connecting the farmer and the work that goes into the food on your plate, that right there is appreciating and having a connection to agriculture.

As someone who I look up to always says, “everyone eats.”

Therefore, we all have a connection to agriculture.

Growing up on a farm myself, I will admit that I didn’t truly have an appreciation for everything it offered until I left for college. Buying meat from a grocery store for the first time I remember looking at the options and being quite overwhelmed.

Being a farmer is hard. Being a consumer also is hard. Of course, in different ways.

As I’ve had the opportunity to learn

4

Rural Route

more about different types of agriculture during my career, I’m always surprised at the diversity our state has. I’ve toured many different types of farms – anywhere from ginseng to goats, to cranberries and aquaponics. Even farmers who have the same crops or animals do things a little differently based on their resources and skillsets.

I’m excited to highlight a sector of agriculture that we haven’t shared much in Rural Route: equine. Thanks to a Farm Bureau county president, I was encouraged to share the story of La Fleur Stables and the family legacy they have built around their horse business.

We also showcase some Farm Bureau members who don’t work on the farm but rather work in other agricultural careers.

We have many members who either have a part-time off the farm job, or are full-time in an agribusiness field. I’m excited to highlight three of our members who have taken unique paths to get to their careers and build their Farm Bureau involvement.

There is a lot packed into this summer edition of Rural Route. I’m sure that’s similar to your summer calendar that’s filling up fast.

As summer bolts in, I want to leave you with a small reminder to take time to soak in the moments and make connections.

Make time for that dairy breakfast with the family, visit your neighbors, stop by a farm market or pack a picnic of Wisconsin goodies and go on a hike with the kids.

I was reminded of the importance of these moments recently as our son sat with my dad on the same tractor I did more than 30 years ago.

Make the time. Make memories. Find your connection to food and farming.

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 Marian Viney - 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 Kevin Krentz, Berlin (President) Dave Daniels, Union Grove (Vice President) Arch Morton Jr., Janesville Robert Nigh, Viroqua Joe Bragger, Independence Rosie Lisowe, Chilton Brian Preder, Weyauwega Ryan Klussendorf, Medford Peter Kimball, Baldwin Brenda Dowiasch, Augusta (Promotion and Education Committee Chair) Bob Nash, Saukville (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.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

FARM BUREAU MEMBERSHIP Q AND A Valued Member VM

What is Farm Bureau?

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation is a voice for farmers. At more than 47,000 members strong, WFBF is the state’s largest general agriculture organization that represents farms of all types and sizes. WFBF consists of 61 county Farm Bureaus, each with a local board of directors. Farm Bureau’s grassroots policy development process ensures that the organization’s legislative policy is created from the bottom up, based on resolutions that are proposed at the local level by voting members.

VM

Why pay dues to be a Farm Bureau member?

Farm Bureau is a membership organization that relies on dues as a primary source of revenue. By joining Farm Bureau, you become part of an organization that provides numerous member benefits (for more details, see page 22) while helping to support Wisconsin’s #1 industry. Members are classified at the county level as voting or associate, with voting members having the right to hold office and vote on the organization’s policy.

VM

I’m not a farmer, so why should I be a member of Farm Bureau?

Agriculture is a major driver of Wisconsin’s economy. We all have a vested interest in helping maintain a safe, affordable and abundant food supply. As a member of Farm Bureau, you support programs and policies that ensure that farmers can continue to feed and clothe us, while keeping Wisconsin’s economy strong.

VM

Can my spouse and I share a membership?

Yes! A Farm Bureau membership is a family membership. It applies to the member, member’s spouse and any children younger than 21. A family member 21 or older requires his or her own membership.

VM

I have an insurance policy with Rural Mutual. Why is Farm Bureau membership required?

In 1934, Wisconsin Farm Bureau members created the Rural Mutual Insurance Company to service the insurance needs of its members. Rural Mutual is an affiliate of Farm Bureau and access to insurance products sold through Rural Mutual is a benefit of membership. Therefore, a paid Farm Bureau membership is a prerequisite to purchase auto, homeowners, country estate, farm and crop/ hail policies through Rural Mutual Insurance Company.

VM

How much are my annual membership dues?

Membership dues are established at the local level by your county Farm Bureau board of directors and vary from county to county. Annual dues range from $50 to $60, depending on which county you live in.

How are my dues used?

When you join Farm Bureau, you not only become a member of your county Farm Bureau, but also Wisconsin Farm Bureau and American Farm Bureau. Your membership dues are allocated as follows:

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation

$40

Used to support state activities, conduct programs and provide staffing for those efforts throughout the state. Consumer and youth education, issue advocacy, leadership development and member publications are services that also are funded with state dues.

American Farm Bureau Federation

$5

Forwarded to support Farm Bureau activities at a national level. These funds support agriculture’s voice in our nation’s capital as well as the many programs that AFBF has in place to educate consumers, share the message of agriculture and provide online resources to its members.

Member Protector Policy

<$1

Members receive $2,000 in accidental death insurance for themselves and their spouse and $1,000 for unmarried children under 24 years of age residing in the same household; policy does not increase in value.

County Farm Bureau

$

The remaining portion of your dues depending on the county is used to fund local events and activities. This may include county meetings, scholarships and other programs for youth, consumer education activities and member service programs in that county.

5

ISSUES

Farm Bureau Works for Farmers and Rural Communities W

isconsin Farm Bureau staff work to promote policies on the local, state and national levels that support Wisconsin farmers. Staff and members collaborate to accomplish the organization’s legislative and regulatory goals.

A few topics that WFBF staff are covering are:

Investment in Rural Cellular Networks Rural wireless networks across America are collapsing from a massive loss of federal infrastructure investment, risking mobile-911 access for rural consumers and threatening first responders’ ability to respond effectively to medical emergencies on the farm, chemical spills on our highways and numerous other emergencies that demand a modern, fast and mobile mode of communication.

COVID-19 exposed the need to invest in rural broadband but it also exposed the fact that in rural America, many consumers only have access to broadband through their mobile phones.

WFBF staff wrote a letter asking for funding in the fiscal year 2023 Appropriations Bill for rural cellular networks. This funding is vital to addressing the serious and growing public safety problem for rural Wisconsinites who live in our state but lack the ability to reliably connect to mobile networks during emergencies.

Rural Broadband Rural broadband is essential to modern agriculture, the farmers who grow our food and the quality of life for rural Americans. Farm Bureau supports using the Universal Service Fund to expand broadband deployment to rural areas. Farm Bureau also supports using a combination of tax incentives, grants or regulation to increase the use of broadband access in rural areas.

WFBF supported increased funding in the 2021-2023 State Budget for broadband infrastructure across the state. $129 million in funding was approved.

Meat Processing Last year, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection established a Meat Processor Grant Program. It was authorized in the 2021-2023 State Budget.

This was a budget priority item for WFBF due to the

6

Rural Route

increased need for farmers to have access to local meat processing within the supply chain. This grant program intends to help spur the growth in Wisconsin’s meat industry, which in turn will grow consumer demand and benefit growth in the livestock industry.

The Meat Processor Grant Program prioritizes grant applications that expand capacity, modernize facilities and increase harvest capacity within the meat processing industry.

Grants of up to $50,000 were awarded to five qualified applicants at the beginning of May. In January 2022, Gov. Tony Evers announced he is providing up to $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding for meat talent development programming. This funding will be used to attract students to meat careers, provide financial support to students in Wisconsin meat processing training programs, support program development and connect the meat processing industry with potential employees.

On May 23, Gov. Evers announced the creation of the Meat and Poultry Supply Chain Resiliency Grant Program, investing up to $10 million in the program to continue to grow Wisconsin’s meat processing industry and improve the long-term viability of the state’s livestock industry. Also funded through the American Rescue Plan Act, Wisconsin meat processors will have the ability to apply for grants of up to $150,000.

Farmer-Led Watersheds Initiatives Wisconsin Farm Bureau is a long-time supporter of farmerled initiatives focused on conservation and best management practices on farms. Farmers are stewards of the land and other resources and care about the state of natural resources for their farms, families, local communities and the world.

Approximately 10 years ago, Wisconsin Farm Bureau led the charge to create, advocate and secure funding for producer-led watershed grants. During the past 10 years, local farmer-led initiatives have shown to bring stakeholders together to discuss local issues, concerns and solutions while providing results. In the 2021-2023 State Budget, WFBF staff advocated for an increase in initial funding for the farmer-led watershed grant program, resulting in an approval of $1 million dollars for each year of the biennium budget.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Farm Bureau, Rural Mutual Support New Food + Farm Exploration Center R ural Mutual Insurance Company and Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation are proud to contribute to the Food + Farm Exploration Center, which broke ground on April 29, in Plover. The Center’s mission is to shorten the distance between the general public and the food they eat.

Farming for the Future Foundation Executive Director Candise Miller said the Foundation was grateful for this partnership.

“Neither Farm Bureau nor Rural Mutual are strangers to the issues facing the agricultural industry today,” Miller said.

“There is a gap where many people just aren’t connected to the food they eat on a personal level anymore. We are working to bridge that divide, bringing people back to the table to have conversations about where their food comes from. Fostering a greater understanding of production agriculture is essential if we are to proactively address the challenges of feeding a growing world with fewer resources.”

Rural Mutual and Farm Bureau will jointly sponsor the Center’s Ag Grand Hall, a multi-functional event space overlooking outdoor demonstration fields. The Ag Grand Hall will provide a space for collaboration, resolution and exploration for agriculture professionals and the public.

“Rural Mutual Insurance Company is a proud sponsor of the Center, as it raises awareness of the importance of agriculture in Wisconsin and the hard work that our farmers do every day,” said Dan Merk, Rural Mutual Insurance Company Executive

Vice President and CEO. “It is one of many ways that Rural supports farming education, helping to shape the future of agriculture in Wisconsin.”

Slated to open Summer 2023, the Center will be a centralized location for visitors to learn about modern food production from farm to plate. Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President Kevin Krentz said he sees the Center as a place to not only learn about agriculture but also discover opportunities available to Wisconsin’s next generation.

“Wisconsin Farm Bureau is committed to preserving and promoting the advancement of agriculture,” said Krentz. “The Center is a unique blend of highlighting modern agriculture practices while highlighting the career opportunities available to today’s youth.”

To date, the Foundation has raised more than $20 million to bring the Center to life. The Cultivating Connections Campaign expects to continue fundraising throughout the next year bringing together those who care most about production agriculture including but not limited to multi-generational farmers, aligned industry, friends and neighbors.

“There has never been a better time to invest in learning about our global food system,” Krentz added. “We are proud to be a supporter of the Food + Farm Exploration Center and look forward to the opportunities it brings the state of Wisconsin.”

To learn more about the Food + Farm Exploration Center, visit the Farming for the Future Foundation website, fftf.us.

WFBF Board members (from left): Bob Nash, Kevin Krentz and Ryan Klussendorf attended the Food + Farm Exploration Center groundbreaking ceremony on April 29. Krentz and Klussendorf also represented Rural Mutual Insurance Company.

JUNE | JULY 2022

wfbf.com

7

ISSUES

Safety is a Common Goal on Wisconsin Roads I t’s getting warmer in Wisconsin, which means planting season is getting underway for farmers across the state.

Traveling with agricultural equipment on the road poses an increased hazard that is often a dreaded part of farming.

It is critical that farmers ensure their vehicles meet legal requirements and operate safely while sharing roadways with their fellow motorists.

“During the busy seasons, it can be easy to get impatient with farmers on the road,” said Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Kevin Krentz.

“Being aware and patient on the road is a shared responsibility among all motorists. We all want to return home to our families at the end of a long, hard day.

Safety is our common goal on Wisconsin roads.”

According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, 39 people have been killed and 896 injured since 2011 in crashes involving agricultural equipment in Wisconsin.

Three scenarios that farmers and motorists should know how to handle are passing an Implement of Husbandry (IOH), left-hand turns and braking distance needed at controlled intersections.

Passing: Before attempting to pass in a no-passing zone, know that is illegal to pass an IOH including farm tractors and farm machinery or an agricultural commercial motor vehicle (Ag CMV).

Motorists should wait to pass a slow-moving vehicle until they have safely entered a passing zone. Farmers should not pull over in a no-passing zone to let vehicles pass unless the road shoulder condition and width can allow for the farm machinery to completely move onto the shoulder.

Farmers also should not wave a driver forward to pass. While these actions seem courteous, it sends mixed signals and is not encouraged. In a passing zone, or if the shoulder width permits, farmers are obligated to yield the roadway to an overtaking vehicle so they do not impede the normal movement of traffic.

Left-hand turn: It can turn into a dangerous situation when a farmer is attempting to make a left-hand turn. Farm equipment, especially the tractor, will have two flashing amber or yellow

8

Rural Route

lights on the cab or tire fenders of the tractor when on the roadway. When a farmer signals to turn, the light will continue to flash in the direction the farmer is turning. The other light will go solid.

For motorists, this is an important distinction to recognize.

For farm tractors or farm machinery without turn signals, hand signals should be used to indicate the farmer’s intention to turn.

A controlled intersection: When a motorist legally passes large farm equipment within a short distance of a controlled intersection (stop sign or stop lights), this action can dramatically impact the reaction time and braking distance for the farmer. Farm equipment is heavier than a passenger vehicle, which makes it critical to have adequate braking distance.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation recommends that motorists should slow down immediately whenever they see a slow-moving vehicle emblem (orange and red triangle) on the rear of a tractor or other piece of equipment. This emblem indicates that the farm machine usually travels slower than 25 mph. Stay alert, focused and patient when passing a slowmoving agricultural vehicle in an area where passing is legal.

Farmers are asked to comply with the proper lighting and marking requirements to draw attention to the size, shape and speed of agricultural vehicles and to alert motorists that caution is required. There are specific requirements for different types of equipment. This information can be found here.

Farmers also should know their local weight restrictions.

Generally, agricultural weight limits are 23,000 pounds per axle or 92,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, dependent on number of axles and axle spacing, and subject to seasonal or special postings.

Farmers can find more information about weight limits from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

“When we all commit to safe and attentive driving practices, we can enjoy Wisconsin rural roads with peace of mind,” Krentz added.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

JUNE | JULY 2022

wfbf.com

9

FAMILY TRADITION Rides Strong at La Fleur Stables

By Amy Eckelberg, Photos by Lynn Siekmann

A

s you travel west from Madison to Verona, you’ll find hundreds of new houses and apartment complexes, but also La Fleur Stables.

In 1965, Dan and Marlene La Fleur established La Fleur Stables when they bought their first horse farm on Highway 138, between Stoughton and Oregon. In 1977, Dan and Marlene relocated to a more complete and elaborate horse facility in Fond du Lac. But it was in 1995 that the couple purchased 15 acres and made Dane County its forever home.

Dan and Marlene have three grown children: Trond, Liv and Neva.

While all the family members have strong connections to the stables and still help and show, it’s Neva who has taken on the family business and runs the day-to-day operations, trains the horses and gives lessons.

Boarding, training, showing, horse lessons and camps are offered at La Fleur Stables.

They also assist with buying and selling horses.

During the years in Fond du Lac, the family became specialized in training American Saddlebreds.

“American Saddlebreds came to be during the Civil War,” explained Neva. “The colonels and generals wanted a fancier horse. Just like in today’s world, your car can show status -- they wanted people to see the prestige of their horse.”

It was the American Quarter Horse that was the frontline animal reserved for the calvary.

Much like the history of horses in our country, the love of horses stems deep in the La Fleur family.

12

Rural Route

It was Marlene who embedded the love of horses in Neva.

“My mom got her first horse when she was four years old,” said Neva. “She really shared with my brother, sister and I, the love she had for these animals.”

As young as 18, Neva was buying and selling her own horses.

“I knew I could be a horse trainer if I could see the entire value you can get out of the horse,” she shared.

Today she carries on the family tradition with a lot of hard work. She works with her son and one other employee.

“Just like any farm, you are working seven days a week,” Neva said. “Some people get that lifestyle and some people don’t.”

In 2001, the barn was built. The building, designed by Marlene has 19 stalls and includes a pit area where a tractor hooked to a manure spreader sits. This allows manure and dirty straw from stall cleaning to be dumped directly into the spreader by a wheelbarrow.

“This is a unique feature,” Neva explained.

“It lets us put the manure right where it needs to go and limits how much our staff is using machinery.”

La Fleur Stables works with a neighbor to spread the manure on fields and a local landscaping company also takes some.

The barn holds a small amount of hay, with the rest being stored in a shed next door.

Some of the haybales come from a neighbor down the road, while other hay is purchased from hay auctions.

The horses have a wellness check by a veterinarian at least once a year and Neva says other vet calls are few and far between.

Though there is a lot of variety from day-to-day for Neva, she says her favorite thing is to, “Develop a rider and a horse.”

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

She spends her mornings working with the show horses and focuses the afternoons and evenings on giving lessons.

While COVID-19 took the wind out of the sails for many businesses, for La Fleur Stables it actually improved business.

“Out of all the years I’ve been here, 2021 was the best year,” she said. “I did quite a few riding lessons because the kids had off on Wednesdays and wanted to get out of the house.

Lessons increased more than 100%. Now, it’s changed and sports are back and I’m back to about one-third of what I was doing during COVID.” In general, Neva says her slowest month is July because of vacations, and usually, April and May are her busiest.

La Fleur Stables also attends numerous horse shows and competitions, usually taking six to eight horses. Most recently Neva exhibited at the Midwest Horse Fair® in Madison.

“I thought it was a very successful event this year,” Neva said.

“It draws a lot of people from out of state.”

Midwest Horse Fair, held at the Alliant Energy Center, is one of the largest three-day horse fairs in the U.S. In 2022, it brought in 61,497 attendees. It draws people from around the country. Neva said it’s important to be there because about 50% of her business comes from out of state.

JUNE | JULY 2022

“It means more when you have to drive an hour or two,” she shared.

According to the American Horse Council’s website, the horse industry contributes approximately $50 billion in direct economic impact to the U.S. economy and has a direct employment impact of 988,394 jobs.

“Horses are a specialty animal,” Neva added. “Because of the Kentucky Derby, equine is a big part of the entertainment industry.”

The AHC also states there are more than 3,141,000 horses used for recreation in the U.S., with nearly 1,228,000 used for showing. More than 1,224,000 are racing horses and more than 537,000 are used for work purposes.

Horses for entertainment is a large portion of the industry’s economic impact. For example, according to NBC Sports, the 2022 event that took place at the beginning of May was the most-viewed Derby since 2019, bringing in more than 16 million viewers.

While their horses provide entertainment, the LaFleur family enjoys the opportunity to pass along its love for these animals.

Pairing that with the uniqueness of its location, La Fleur Stables has an opportunity to connect an urban audience with a piece of rural living.

wfbf.com

13

14

Rural Route

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

In Their Blood

FARM BUREAU LEADERS REFLECT ON THEIR JOURNEY INTO AGRICULTURE

By Cassie Sonnentag

H

ow does one determine his or her true calling? In agriculture, oftentimes an individual is born into a farming family and carries on that legacy. Other times, those callings come from somewhere even deeper.

For Farm Bureau leaders Sara Menard Huber, Bob Nash and Brenda Dowiasch, one might even say their callings to

agriculture are rooted in their blood.

Three unique leaders with three unique journeys reflect on how they were called to agriculture, Farm Bureau and the interpersonal connections they have made with fellow agriculturists across the country.

Building products, building friendships SUPPLIED PHOTOS

Sara Menard Huber was no stranger to agriculture while growing up in the south. She spent a lot of time watching her father mold the mind of students as an agriculture instructor and FFA advisor in Arkansas and, later, as an Extension educator in Louisiana.

Despite a love of agriculture, Sara pursued a degree in physical therapy while attending Louisiana State University; however, her heart longed to return to her agricultural ties. She visited the University’s food science department to explore options.

“Before I could even explain what I was there for, a student said they were signing me up for the product development team JUNE | JULY 2022

and I could major in food science,” Sara said. “I walked out of there signed up for classes and thought to myself, ‘I guess we are doing this’ and the rest was history.”

Sara graduated with a bachelor’s degree in food science and later attended Kansas State University for a master’s degree in food science and in business administration.

Currently, Sara is the Research and Development Manager at Brakebush in Westfield.

She works with foodservice operators and national chain accounts to develop chicken products for menus.

“There are so many factors that go into getting a single chicken strip to market,” Sara said. “Factors like bird size, diet, coating flavors, cuts – you name it, we take it into consideration while working with customers.” wfbf.com

15

Sara finds the most enjoyment in working with customers to build the perfect product. Many customers have longstanding relationships with Brakebush, which is something she is proud to be a part of.

“There are other companies out there that they could work with. They continue to pick us because of the relationships we build with them,” Sara said. “It’s exciting when we come together on a product we are proud of and we get to see it hit the market.”

When Sara moved to Wisconsin after graduating college, she said she was looking to make friends with a similar interest base.

“I was looking to make friends and get involved with the community, which is how I found myself getting involved in Farm Bureau,” Sara said.

Sara is a member of the Adams County Farm Bureau and serves as District 5 Young Farmer and Agriculturist Representative alongside her husband, Jeff. Considering her career and Farm Bureau involvement, Sara said relationships

play an important role in her journey.

“Life has a funny way of taking you to the people you need,” Sara said. “The people I have met up until this point have guided my life to where it needs to be and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Sara works with customers to develop the perfect product to fit their needs.

From coating flavors to sizing, everything is considered when developing a new product.

A man with many hats

PHOTOS BY LYNN SIEKMANN

Ozaukee County Farm Bureau member Bob Nash got started in agriculture at a young age. While he was not born into a farming family, he said he quickly became infatuated with the opportunities a farm could provide him when he was in sixth grade and he began helping at Malichar Broad Acres.

“My parents would drop me off and I would want to stay for weeks on end,” Bob said. “The whole farm atmosphere drew me in and I haven’t been the same since.”

Bob attributes his love of farming to his late mentor Jim Malichar and his family. He recalled the many lessons that working on a dairy farm taught him from a very young age.

“I looked up to Jim in so many ways. When your heroes become your friends, it is a crazy thing,” Bob said. “Early into working for the Malichars, I learned that farmers always finish the job – we keep going because we have a job to get done.

You’re impressionable at that young age and I have carried that work ethic they instilled in me.”

Today, Bob works full-time for Ozaukee County as a heavy equipment operator while working nights and weekends for Chris and Tracey Elbe at Golden E Dairy Farm in West Bend.

While he enjoys the different hats he wears in both of

16

Rural Route

his careers, Bob is most grateful for the opportunity to continue farming. He said he looks forward to Saturday mornings the most.

“That’s when I get to feed calves on the farm, which is what got it started for me as a kid. Feeding calves brings me a sense of peace and is my time to think and simply be happy,” Bob said.

In 2006 and 2007, Bob attended UW-Madison’s Farm and Industry Short Course. Upon graduating, he was asked to get involved in the Ozaukee County Farm Bureau by Young Farmer and Agriculturist Chair Rick Roden. Currently, Bob is serving as the state YFA Chair, serving on Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Board of Directors.

Bob is thankful for the friendships he has made since becoming a Farm Bureau member.

“The people I have met across the state and country are phenomenal,” Bob said. “Without the support of all of the friends I have made in Farm Bureau, I wouldn’t be in the role that I am today.”

A self-proclaimed 'people person’, Bob said the relationships he has built on and off the farm have had the greatest impact on his life. He is thankful for the opportunity to represent YFA

(from left): Matt Elbe, Ryan Elbe, Kim Saari, Bob Nash, Kyle Elbe, Tracey Elbe and Chris Elbe.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

members and to serve on the Board of Directors among some of the state’s top agriculture leaders.

“I put a ton of pressure on myself to make the right decisions,” Bob said. “People are what make the farm and are what make the Farm Bureau, too. They are the people who gave me the opportunities to get involved and my goal is to do what I can to make them proud – both as a farmer and as a leader.”

Bob encourages fellow Farm Bureau members to take advantage of the opportunities available to them as members.

“You really get the full experience by getting involved, going to conferences and making friends with other members,” Bob said. “Use these opportunities – they pulled me in and changed every aspect of my life.”

The value in giving back

PHOTOS BY CASSIE SONNENTAG

SUPPLIED PHOTO

From her upbringing on her family’s dairy farm in Eau Claire County, Brenda Dowiasch’s roots in agriculture started from an early age.

“I was always helping with chores and anything that needed to be done on the farm,” Brenda said. “My interest in agriculture really started to be shaped from there.”

Throughout her youth, Brenda was actively involved as an FFA member. She served in numerous leadership positions and participated in competitive roles before eventually obtaining her American FFA degree. In 2002, Brenda also applied for and was named the Wisconsin Honey Queen. In her role, she realized the value of getting involved as a leader representing agriculture.

“Serving in those roles and being a part of organizations, that’s where my passion was,” Brenda said. “It is interesting the path that life takes you on to ultimately shape you into the person you are meant to become.”

As a farm loan officer, Brenda enjoys being able to help others take advantage of prospective ways to grow and better their farms.

“Whether they are the next generation or the first generation, the greatest part of my job is being able to help farmers take advantage of their own opportunities,” Brenda said.

“Regardless of if they are looking to buy the farm or just a piece of equipment, I enjoy helping them move forward.”

Brenda became an Eau Claire County Farm Bureau member in 2018 and was quick to get involved.

She has served on her county’s Farm JUNE | JULY 2022

Bureau board for four years and currently serves as president.

“Although Farm Bureau hasn’t been in my life for generations, it didn’t take me long to see the amount of value and opportunities to get involved that this organization has,” Brenda said.

Brenda became the District 4 Promotion and Education representative in 2020 and now serves as the state committee representative and on WFBF’s Board of Directors. She enjoys being a representative of an initiative that she thinks is more important now than it has ever been before.

“Even in small communities, so many people are surrounded by farms or fields but do not understand what truly goes on within them,” Brenda said. “If we do not take advantage of having a seat at the table, somebody else will and that’s one big, missed opportunity to share our stories in agriculture.”

Appreciative Brenda enjoys helping farmers meet their of her chances goals – both in her career and as a Farm Bureau to get involved, leader.

Brenda encourages others to get engaged when they have the chance to do so.

“The big picture is – no matter if it is in Farm Bureau, your local church or another organization near and dear to you – give back to those who have given to you,” Brenda said.

“If you see value in something, take the time to get involved and consider serving as a leader; you never know who you might inspire.” wfbf.com

17

Managing

Food Waste at Home and on the Farm

By Rachel Gerbitz

How often do you bring home more food than you need from the grocery store or toss leftovers that were forgotten about in the back of the refrigerator?

We need to eat and drink, but we also need to accept the responsibility of being mindful of using our resources.

Approximately one-third of human food produced in the world is lost or wasted. Food waste, edible food that was spoiled or discarded before consumption, is the number one contributor in landfills. Food waste takes up valuable space in landfills and contributes heavily to greenhouse gas emissions.

Agriculture can provide a solution to this problem. Farmers have been reducing waste and improving efficiency for decades; however, we cannot do it alone. We need to be mindful of using our resources at home and on the farm.

Reusing Food Waste on the Farm

Farmers are redirecting rejected or leftover food as feed for cows and livestock. Potato peels, cranberry hulls, expired cereal and imperfect candy are some of the examples of waste products that can be fed to cows. Using these leftovers in a cow’s diet offers cost-savings for the farmer.

Next time you're enjoying a glass of cranberry juice or mashed potatoes at your favorite restaurant, there is a good chance that the leftovers from those products were redirected and used to feed cows and ultimately produce cheese and milk for you to enjoy.

Reducing Food Waste at Home

You can reduce food waste at home by sticking to your grocery list, correctly storing and creatively repurposing leftovers and understanding expiration dates on food. Best-by and sell-by dates are provided by the processor for the best quality and are often still safe to eat past the printed date.

Instead of tossing your watermelon rinds this summer, try composting the rinds. You can compost fruits and vegetables, coffee grounds, eggshells and nutshells by discarding in a container along with yard waste and sawdust. Carbon and nitrogen in the yard waste and food scraps work together with moisture to break down the organic matter. Compost can enrich the soil and lower your carbon footprint.

According to a recent report from the Department of Natural Resources, using or composting the amount of food sent to landfills in 2020 would reduce greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to the amount of taking 600,000 cars off the road for a year.

Urban and Rural Renewable Energy

Organic waste, like food scraps, takes up space in landfills and

18

Rural Route

emits methane. Many landfills use technology to collect that methane and turn it into energy to power equipment and fleet vehicles. There is a good chance that the garbage truck picking up your waste is powered by renewable energy.

Dairy farmers also can harvest methane using aerobic digesters, turning the gas emitted from cow manure into power to energize farm buildings and homes.

Conserving Water on the Farm

Water is a valuable resource for farmers. It’s used to irrigate crops and nourish animals. Water can be used more than once before it is returned as part of the natural water cycle. The same water can be used up to four times on a dairy farm: first to cool the milk, then to water the animals, then to clean equipment and, finally, to irrigate crops.

Conserving Water at Home

You can conserve water at home by turning off the faucet while you brush your teeth, only running the washing machine or dishwasher when you have a full load and monitoring your water usage on your water bill.

Working Together to Achieve Goals

Farmers are creative thinkers and innovators, using every resource to maintain their bottom line and help the environment. Reducing, reusing and recycling resources help farmers to be more efficient and protect the environment.

You can help at home by using your resources wisely. Plan for your grocery trips ahead of time and keep an eye on your water bill to monitor usage.

Together, we can fight food waste, conserve our water and provide solutions to minimize our impact.

JUNE | JULY 2022

wfbf.com

19

20

Rural Route

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

MEMBERSHIP

SUPPLIED PHOTO

Farm Bureau Members Save During Vacation Hotel Stays I

22

t’s summertime and it’s time for a road trip.

It’s easy for Wisconsin Farm Bureau members to save 20% at almost 5,000 Choice Hotels worldwide or 20% off the best available rate at more than 8,000 participating Wyndham Hotels and Resorts worldwide.

Tom and Joan Oberhaus.

Now, Farm Bureau members can save even more by signing up for the Choice Privileges Rewards Program to start earning points towards free nights or flights in addition to your 20% discount.

Recently, Waukesha County Farm Bureau members Joan and Tom Oberhaus enjoyed the 20% savings with Choice Hotels numerous times on a two-week tour of the southeast U.S. including Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Florida.

“The savings that we accumulated and the Choice Privileges Rewards Program points we’ve earned have been significant,” said Tom. “Over time, we’ve definitely earned a handful of free nights.”

Tom explained that the benefit is easy to use and recommended that Farm Bureau members save the 800 call-in number along with the six-digit WFBF ID number in their

Rural Route

phone’s contact list while on the road.

“It’s easy to log in on your device while sitting in the hotel parking lot,” said Tom. “Most times we don’t know for sure where we are going to end up after a day of driving so having the numbers in one spot makes everything easier.”

He added that the program is for people on the go.

“We’ve earned enough reward points to stay a couple of extra nights on an upcoming trip that we’ve planned,” said Tom. “I just call the 800 number and the hotel reservation staff member is prompt, helpful and in no-time, we’re checked-in with our savings applied and reward points earned.”

Tom has shared his positive experiences with other Farm Bureau members because he believes that the Farm Bureau benefit isn’t used as often as it could be.

“We also use the Grainger and John Deere member benefits from time to time,” added Tom. To take advantage of the Farm Bureau Choice Hotel International Farm Bureau member benefit, visit choicehotels.com or call 800.258.2847. Remember to provide the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation ID #00209870 along with your Choice Privileges member number to receive your discount while earning Choice Privileges reward points.

To make reservations at one of the Wyndham Hotels, visit wyndhamhotels.com or call 877.670.7088 and be sure to mention the Farm Bureau corporate ID #8000004288.

For more information about Farm Bureau member benefits, visit wfbf.com/membership/member-benefits.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Farm Bureau members who are agricultural producers and patrons of their local FS cooperative are eligible to receive patronage when patronage is paid.

Through an exclusive program offered by Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, Farm Bureau members receive a $250 pre-paid debit card with the purchase of select 4WD ATV, Side-by-Side and Snowmobile models.

Fill out the rebate form at bit.ly/3inykme. You need your Farm Bureau member number to complete the form. *You must be a paid Wisconsin Farm Bureau member at time of purchase to receive the $250 rebate.

Members receive an incentive discount (up to $500) when purchasing qualifying Case IH equipment from participating dealers.

Rural Mutual

You can get more information about the services Farm Bureau Financial offers from your local Rural Insurance agent. Learn more at fbfs.com.

Insurance Company

To find a Rural Mutual Insurance Company agent, visit ruralmutual.com or call 877.219.9550.

Members always receive up to 30% off Avis base rates* with Avis Worldwide Discount. Visit avis.com/wifb or call 800.331.1212 to make a reservation.

Farm Bureau $500 Exclusive Cash Reward offer for new 2021/ 2022/2023 Ford Ranger, Maverick, F-150, and Super Duty (to F-550).

Must be a member for 30 days. Visit fordfarmbureauadvantage.com for complete details or to print your certificate.

Members qualify for a variety of discounts on new purchases.

Visit wfbf.com to print your certificate and for details on models and discounts.

Members always save up to 30% off Budget base rates* with Budget Customer Discount. Visit budget.com/wifb or call 800.527.0700 to make a reservation.

Take advantage of Farm Bureau Bank’s FDIC-insured checking, savings and money market accounts, certificates of deposit, credit cards and vehicle and home loans. Visit farmbureau.bank.

YOUR MEMBERSHIP DOESN’T COST, IT PAYS.

Your Farm Bureau Member Benefit

Member Protector Policy • AgriVisor • Life Line Screening • Choice Hotels International, Inc. • Wyndham Hotel Group • ScriptSave $500 Reward Protection Program • Grainger • AgriPlan Medical Reimbursement Program • Office Depot • John Deere

*WFBF member benefits may be changed or discontinued at anytime without notice.* JUNE | JULY 2022

For complete details, visit wfbf.com/membership/member-benefits. wfbf.com

23

5

MINUTES

WITH GRANT COUNTY’S

JESSICA BROGLEY

By Marian Viney

Please share a little about yourself, family, education, career, etc.

My name is Jessica Brogley. I am married with two children.

I teach courses in educational technology in the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin - Platteville. For years I taught high school English, but my bread and butter is now in supporting future teachers in learning how to leverage technology for learning in school. I also own my own businesses where I travel to schools supporting teachers and generating ideas for learning.

When you were growing up what did you want to be?

I remember wanting to be a teacher sometime before I was 12. I would bribe my brother with baseball cards to be my student, and I would teach him whatever I thought he needed to know. I remember reading about football in our encyclopedia set because he was about to begin football that fall. I thought it would be good to prepare him a bit with a series of worksheets.

Thankfully, I’ve come a long way.

You received a scholarship from the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture to attend the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference in June. The conference helps educators learn how to incorporate real-life agricultural applications into science, social studies, language arts, math and nutrition lessons. Scholarship recipients were judged on their past use of innovative programs to educate students about agriculture as well as plans to implement information gained at the NAITC conference in their own lesson plans and share the information with other teachers and volunteer educators. What are some of the innovative programs that you highlighted in your application?

As a teacher of educational technology and an advocate for agricultural education, I’m afforded the opportunity to inspire and support any future teacher by looking at subject matter through an agricultural lens. I’ve supported our students by helping organize the ag-education tent at the Grant County Fair. Because I’m new to Farm Bureau and Ag in the Classroom, many of my goals focus on what I want to do in the future.

24

Rural Route

What do you hope to gain by attending the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference? How will you use these tools and ideas with the Grant County Ag in the Classroom Program?

By attending the national conference I am hoping to connect with other educators and gain a more diverse understanding of agriculture. What I learn, comes back to the county to be share with local teachers and our pre-service teachers in the School of Education, especially those entering elementary education.

What is one agricultural experience that has defined you?

I suppose an agricultural experience that’s defined me would be when we, as a family, began our own goat herds. With almost no knowledge, the kids and I trucked home with goats in tow and, my goodness, have we been learning!

Briefly share your mission with Brogley Acres, LLC.

Our mission at Brogley Acres, LLC. is to support our kids as they raise their registered Nigerian Dwarf and Boer goats as part of their 4-H and FFA projects. Additionally, we are also licensed from the state to sell farm fresh eggs on home delivery and at farmers markets. Really, our goals, as parents, were to instill solid work ethics and to give our kids a foundational knowledge of animal husbandry and the livestock industry.

What is one Farm Bureau experience that you are most proud of?

Well, I’m new to Farm Bureau, but being able lead the Grant County Ag in the Classroom program means a lot to me in that I’m able to support teachers as they ponder ways to integrate concepts of agriculture into their curriculum.

What is something that many Farm Bureau members do not know about you?

Something many Farm Bureau members don’t know is that I did not grow up on a farm. We had various animals, but more so for hobby.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

JUNE | JULY 2022

wfbf.com

25

VOICES

Farm Bureau: A Reintroduction

A Message from WFBF President Kevin Krentz

F

arm Bureau is recognized as the voice of agriculture, but what does that really mean? For me it means representing a wide array of diversity in agriculture with one voice. Wisconsin agriculture is a $104 billion business.

And we are proud that Farm Bureau represents members both large and small, organic and conventional and all different crops and animals. Our diversity is what makes Wisconsin agriculture special and also what makes Farm Bureau unique.

Sometimes people ask what Farm Bureau offers. However, that answer is far from simple, as we offer a long list of opportunities to get involved and develop as a leader.

Our volunteers’ passion for agriculture is the backbone of this organization.

Whether you just want to volunteer once a year at the county fair food stand or take on a leadership role on the county Farm Bureau board, your options are endless.

26

Rural Route

As farmers and agriculturists, the ability to network with others is important. No matter your age, socializing is a key part of life. Farm Bureau provides occasions to connect throughout the year. Local and statewide events help build something we a very proud of within Farm Bureau -- a network and a family.

Consider what you are most passionate about, and I guarantee Farm Bureau has a place for you. If you have a passion for working with students, our Ag in the Classroom program may be a great fit for you. This program connects volunteers with schools across the state to explain modern agriculture to young minds. Engaging our next generation of consumers is critical as farmers continue to be a smaller percentage of the population.

Farm Bureau provides resources, tools and training to help members carry our message.

For those farmers and agriculturists wanting to share how they protect water, soil and other natural resources, care for their animals through all types of weather, and provide food, fiber and fuel for others, we offer training and outlets to house these stories.

Our Young Farmer and Agriculturist program gives our younger members many networking opportunities and strengthen communication skills needed to engage others in agriculture. Likewise, the Promotion and Education program develops, implements and promotes the development of agricultural awareness while providing leadership development to the agricultural community.

The WFBF Leadership Institute is our organization’s premier leadership development program. This year-

long training course develops strong and effective Farm Bureau leaders by strengthening their professional skillset, deepening their understanding of agricultural policy issues, and learning ways to engage with legislators and the media. Whether you are new to Farm Bureau or a seasoned board member, this program offers the opportunity for all Farm Bureau members to grow as a leader.

Perhaps policy is what piques your interest. Farm Bureau policy is derived from a grassroots development process by our members. This process gives our members an opportunity to implement changes as to what is impacting their farms and businesses.

While Farm Bureau strives to carry your message to Madison or Washington, D.C., we also offer many ways to help you advocate for yourself by getting in front of your representatives. Annually, we host Ag Day at the Capitol in Madison where hundreds of agriculturists meet with their legislators to explain how laws are impacting them on their farms.

Farm Bureau is known as a lobbying organization who helps Wisconsin agriculture stay strong, but we are so much more thanks to our dedicated volunteers and staff. I encourage you to consider the variety of programs we have to offer you as a member.

Farm Bureau is recognized as the voice of agriculture, but you are the voice of Farm Bureau. Whatever your passion, Farm Bureau has a seat for you.

Krentz was elected president of Wisconsin Farm Bureau in 2020. He is a dairy farmer from Berlin.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Farm Bureau Volunteers Giving Life to Community A Message from AFBF President Zippy Duvall

F

or more than a century, Farm Bureau has harnessed the energy, innovation, and passion of volunteers.

In the words of Winston Churchill, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” As farmers and ranchers, we do our best to provide for our families and raise healthy, safe and sustainable food, fiber and fuel for our nation and the world. It’s how we make a living. But across the Farm Bureau family, our lives are made more meaningful in how we give back to our communities.

Our grassroots organization could not function without the work of tens of thousands of volunteers across the country. When I joined Farm Bureau as a young farmer, I wanted to help my community and impact the lives of farmers around me. From day one with my county young farmer program, I got

JUNE | JULY 2022

to see firsthand how Farm Bureau is not just about farming but much more.

Just like our farm communities, the Farm Bureau family is there for our neighbors. We come out to celebrate the good times, and we show up to lend a hand and lift each other up in the tough times. Volunteers don’t raise their hands expecting a thank you or a favor in return.

You step up and show up out of love for neighbor and a desire to give back from the blessings you have known. And in communities large and small, you will find Farm Bureau members stepping up and leading the way to support their neighbors and the next generation.

The volunteer spirit is at the heart of all three of our national Farm Bureau programs. Our Young Farmers & Ranchers Committees work across the country to collect food and funds to buy meals for those in need. Last year alone, they collected enough funds and meals to provide more than 30 million meals to those in need. Women’s Leadership Committee members serve in their communities and, through their work with Ronald McDonald House, raised more than $26,000 and provided 103 volunteer hours in 2021. And most recently our Promotion and Education Committee, which shines a spotlight on the significance of agriculture and helps consumers understand where their food comes from, showed how Farm Bureau members give back with big hearts. At a recent training event in Minneapolis, P&E committee members donated 705 pairs of socks and $3,000 to support the unhoused in the Twin Cities. Farm

Bureau volunteers engage in many ways, including with local youth organizations like 4-H and FFA, by providing scholarships and offering boots-on-theground support at county and state fairs, to name a few.

Within Farm Bureau, we’re grateful to have volunteers who step up to lead their county Farm Bureaus and others who fill other critical roles that keep our organization moving forward. From county boards of directors to program committees, I am incredibly proud of each person who answers the call to keep our organization strong. And we invite more to join us! Our Farm Bureau family is stronger as folks from all types of agriculture, walks of life and regions of the country join in.

Whether Farm Bureau volunteers are driving a tractor in the 4th of July Parade, staffing a booth at the county fair, or serving food at a fundraiser, without each of you taking part, many of our community events wouldn’t happen. I know you don’t seek acknowledgement or recognition. Service is simply part of who you are as farmers and ranchers, feeding this great country, lending a hand to neighbors and caring for those in need. On behalf of everyone at American Farm Bureau, I thank you for being servant-minded. Volunteerism truly is the lifeblood of our communities and our Farm Bureau family.

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

wfbf.com

27

VOICES

Ensuring Healthy Food Access and Security for Everyone A Guest Column from Extension’s Kathryn Boryc Smock

A

key foundation to any healthy community includes access to healthy food.

Nutrition security is a term used to describe when individuals and families have consistent access to safe and nutritious foods that support optimal health and well-being for all, throughout all stages of life.

When families don’t have consistent access to nutritious foods, it makes it harder for children to thrive in and out of school, increases the risk of health problems for children and adults, makes it more difficult to manage chronic conditions and contributes to chronic stress for families.

In Wisconsin, one in 10 households and one in five children are food insecure.

When households are food insecure, people worry about running out of food without having money to buy more. Food insecurity is found in all communities, however it is more prevalent in rural areas than in suburban areas.

The COVID-19 pandemic shone a spotlight on existing inequities, exacerbating food insecurity and amplifying vulnerabilities in the food system including production, processing, transportation, consumption, disposal and

28

Rural Route

emergency food systems.

Residents in rural areas of Wisconsin faced food security challenges due to job losses, underemployment, disrupted food and nutrition programs and a stressed emergency food system.

Efforts to support healthy eating and address nutrition insecurity typically focus on individuals and personal health behavior changes. But such approaches often do not lead to sustainable change because the larger environment in which people live, work, learn and play does not support the changes they are trying to make.

To make lasting change, communities are increasingly focusing on policy, systems and environmental change efforts that make healthy choices practical and available to all community members.

Policy changes can involve laws, ordinances, guidelines, regulations or rules. Changes at the systems level – such as organizational procedures or resource allocation – are changes that impact areas of an organization, institution or community.

Environmental changes involve changes to the economic, social or built environment. Because every community is unique, the most effective change interventions are those that are developed and implemented in partnership with the local community. This helps ensure that the intervention addresses the specific local context and needs, and that the changes will be sustainable over time.

The programs of Extension’s Health & Well-Being Institute – including Healthy Eating Active Living and the federally supported FoodWIse program – work with community organizations to support the policy, systems and environmental changes needed to address nutrition security.

Extension educators have worked with church meal programs to advance implementation of a nutrition policy to increase access to healthy foods

among community members. Extension provided technical assistance to develop a nutrition policy that uses the USDA MyPlate model as a guide for serving nutritious food and details a donation policy emphasizing nutritious foods and declining unhealthy donations Extension educators also worked with Master Gardener volunteers to add year-round fresh produce to the meals.

Extension further worked with Master Gardener volunteers in another county, along with local partners, to establish 20 community gardens that donated produce to food pantries, low income housing, schools and community meal programs.

In 2021, 12,448 pounds of produce were grown and donated, reaching more than 8,500 people during the course of the growing season.

Extension also collaborated with community groups to increase the distribution of the USDA Commodity Supplemental Food Program, known as Stockboxes for Seniors. This increased the nutrition security of seniors with limited incomes. Food boxes with recipes and resources were distributed to eligible seniors monthly through a collaboration between aging and disability resource centers, housing authorities, nonprofit organizations, local health departments and coalitions of local food pantries.

In Portage and Wood counties – two counties where rural populations outpace the state average – project partners distributed 18,000 pounds of food to eligible seniors during the last four months of 2021.

Learn more about Extension’s efforts statewide and in your area, and how you can get involved, at extension.wisc.edu.

Boryc Smock is the Program Manager for FoodWIse, UW-Madison Extension’s program supported by SNAP-Ed and EFNEP federal funding. FoodWIse conducts programming in 71 counties across Wisconsin.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

JUNE | JULY 2022

wfbf.com

29

With Steve Mueller

County Fair Season: Something For Everyone The end of June kicks off county fair season around Wisconsin. From that point until the end of September, somewhere around Wisconsin you will find it is a fair day for all but a handful of days during the summer.

Of course the Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis, with an annual attendance of 1 million visitors, is the largest fair in Wisconsin. At some point of the summer, you will find an enjoyable county fair close to you.

A local county fair truly is an experience for everyone.

Highlighted by amazing youth and youth programs, everyone can participate and enjoy the judging and entertainment offered.

Whether it is taking in some of the great fair food, observing youth judging and educational display activities or enjoying the PHOTO CREDIT ST. CROIX COUNTY FAIR entertainment, you are bound to find fun for all who attend. Or participate yourself with your own projects and talents in an open class division.

You will find all kinds of diversity at a county fair.

Livestock, horticulture, arts and crafts, woodworking and foods are some of the largest participated areas for all to enter. It truly is for everyone.

Open class and senior citizen divisions in many counties allow for anyone to bring their talents and interests to be evaluated and displayed. It is a great place to learn, improve and share a hobby.

Young kids? Fantastic. A fair is a great place for them as well. They can experience most species of animals up close. Activities like mutton busting, kids’ pedal tractor pulls, entertainment areas and carnivals will bring fun for kids of all ages.

A local county fair also is a great place for older kids to see exhibits and find new hobbies to enjoy.

Leaders, parents and youth will be happy to answer questions, find contacts and information for your kids to become involved, and even find partnerships for youth if your kids want to learn more and work with animals you may not have the means or facilities to care for.

I encourage everyone to take in the educational fun at a local county fair or three this summer.

For more information about fairs near you, visit wifairs.com.

Steve Mueller is the District 9 representative on the WFBF Promotion and Education Committee. Steven, along with his family, grows crops on 700 acres in St. Croix County.

Steven and his wife, Ashley, have a daughter, Aria, and son, Kenny.

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.

Promotion and Education Program

NEW FARM TRAIL APP CONNECTS FARMS Attention farmers and farm fans! An exciting new app from The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is bringing together two wonderful groups of people who both love fun-on-the-farm. The American Farm Trail app presents an amazing opportunity for agritourism operators to connect with tourists to increase business and improve agricultural awareness.

For tourists, the app offers an easy way to connect with local farms and much more. The Farm Trail app also includes games and activities (for kids and adults) which highlight how agriculture serves an important role in the production of our food, fiber and fuel. Agritourism operators and tourists are encouraged to register today to be part of this exciting initiative.

Find out more by visiting, farmtrailapp.com.

30

Rural Route

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Farm Bureau

June marks the start of strawberry season. Enjoy these recipes courtesy of Govin’s Farm, owned by John and Julie Govin, located east of Menomonie. For more information, visit govinsfarm.com.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie

Strawberry Pizza

• 1 c. flour • ¼ c. powdered sugar

Crust: • 2 c. flour • 1 c. butter or margarine • 4 Tbsp. powdered sugar

Crust

Ingredients

• ½ c. pecans, chopped • ½ c. butter, softened

Mix and pat in 9-inch pie pan. Bake at 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes.

Double crust ingredients if using a 9x13 pan.

Glaze

• 1 c. strawberries • 2/3 cup water Simmer about 3 minutes

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened

• 4 c. .fresh strawberries, washed, hulled and halved • 1 pkg. strawberry glaze, divided

Directions

• 1 c. sugar • 3 Tbsp. cornstarch • 1/3 c. water

Blend together and add to simmered berries. Bring to a boil; boil 1 minute then cool to lukewarm.

Filling

Filling: • 2 pkg. (3 oz. each) cream cheese, softened • 8 oz. whipped topping • 1 c. powdered sugar

• 5 tsp. powdered sugar

Mix and spread onto bottom of cooled crust. Arrange 4 c. or more whole, hulled strawberries (cut if they are too big) on cream cheese then pour cooled glaze mixture over. Chill at least 2 hours.

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray 13x9x2 glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

2. In a medium bowl, use a fork or pastry blender to cut flour, butter and powdered sugar into coarse crumbs. Place in a prepared dish. Bake 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven and cool.

3. In large bowl, mix together cream cheese, whipped topping and powdered sugar. Spread over prepared crust and refrigerate until ready to use.

4. J ust before serving, spread one half of the strawberry glaze over cream cheese layer. Arrange halved strawberries decoratively on top. Cover berries with remaining glaze. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Strawberry-Rhubarb Crunch Ingredients

Crust: • 1 c. flour • ¾ c. oatmeal • 1 c. brown sugar • ½ c. butter, melted

Directions

• 1 tsp. cinnamon • 2½ c. fresh or frozen rhubarb, diced • 1½ c. fresh or frozen strawberries

Filling: • 1 c. sugar • 1 c. water • 2 Tbsp. cornstarch • 1 tsp. vanilla extract

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a 9x9-inch square pan with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Crust: In large bowl, add flour, oatmeal, brown sugar, butter and cinnamon. Using a fork or pastry blender mix until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into a prepared pan. Layer rhubarb and strawberries over crust; set aside.

3. Filling: in a saucepan combine sugar, water and cornstarch. Cook and stir over medium heat until thick and clear. Add vanilla; stir until well blended. Pour over fruit mixture. Top with remaining crumbs. Bake 50-60 minutes. Cut into squares when cool, adding a scoop of ice cream.

JUNE | JULY 2022

wfbf.com

31

Skills in New WeCOPE Program Promote Positive Emotion

By John Shutske, Agricultural Safety and Health Specialist

W

eCOPE is a program developed by national experts with extensive design, input and participation from those at UW-Madison in the Division of Extension and College of Agricultural and Life Sciences since 2021.

WeCOPE is based on the idea of ‘Connecting with Our Positive Emotions’ and covers 11 skills and practices that research consistently shows have positive impacts on lowering stress levels, improving physical health and increasing people’s satisfaction with life.

One thing is for sure about stress—when we deal with stressors, the pressures of life, and a sense that we have little or no control about the things that influence financial and mental well-being on the farm, it wreaks havoc on our emotions.

When we are sad, angry, anxious, frightened or simply feel detached and are going through the motions of life, these emotions lead to less satisfaction and negatively impact our relationships and physical health.

If left to fester, unchecked negative emotions lead to other risks or outcomes such as anxiety or depression.

We also know that high levels of stress lead to bad decisions including those connected to production or financial matters.

The skills in the WeCOPE program are selected as those that scientists and mental health experts show displace negative emotions, replacing with more positive ways of coping and even thriving during times of change and uncertainty. Mental health research shows that even modest efforts to replace negative emotions with positive ones can positively impact our happiness and

32

Rural Route

overall well-being. The skills practiced in WeCOPE work together and have synergy further multiplying the highly positive impacts.

WeCOPE was originally designed for a general adult audience, but in 2022 was adapted for farmers, farm family members and others connected to agriculture in our rural communities. The agricultural adaptation was made possible thanks to a generous grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) through a partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).

The newly-adapted Farm WeCOPE features examples, stories and practice activities that incorporate the situations and challenges we face on a farm or rural area.

In the future, adapted content also is planned to support the mental health needs of hired farmworkers and other underserved audiences and communities.

The key to WeCOPE is ‘practice.’ Any skill that we hope to incorporate into daily life requires that we learn about it, understand the benefits and then have opportunities to ‘try on’ or experiment with the skill’s activities over time.

With that in mind, WeCOPE is usually delivered over several sessions with time to practice between each session. There also is a social dimension. In the program, participants talk and share which skills they enjoyed during their weekly practice; how they shared these skills with others and how they adapted skills for their daily routines and everyday life.

Most WeCOPE skills are not ‘new and revolutionary.’ For WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

example, in our rural communities and farm households, gratitude (an important baseline WeCOPE skill) is practiced often through giving thanks, observing holidays and spiritual practice.

EXAMPLES OF WECOPE SKILLS INCLUDE: • Inventorying Personal Strengths • Setting Achievable Goals • Positive Reappraisal • Self-Compassion and Acts of Kindness • Gratitude, Noticing, and Savoring the Good • Practicing Everyday Mindfulness (and getting off of auto-pilot) This summer, the WeCOPE program, including the farm version will be available in communities statewide.

About 15 educators in counties statewide are delivering

WeCOPE. Due to the pandemic, during the last months, many WeCOPE programs have been virtual, but we also will offer more live programs in the coming year.

The WeCOPE program is ideally taught over seven sessions with practice in between, but there will be additional shorter sessions offered and a series of videos and podcasts are being planned.

To learn more, or to find out about WeCOPE programs being offered in your area or statewide, contact Amanda Coorough, human development and relationships educator, and project manager at: amanda.coorough@ wisc.edu or John Shutske, grant director for the WeCOPE ag adaptation at shutske@wisc.edu.

Special thanks to the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for funding the original WeCOPE program and to the National Institute for Food and Agriculture of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for the farm adaptation.

Free Virtual Course on Farm Culture, Stress and Challenges

T

he Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection’s Farm Center has released a free virtual course that will help agricultural service providers understand the unique stresses and challenges of farming, handle difficult conversations and recognize signs and symptoms of stress with farm clients. Funded through Gov. Tony Evers’ 2021-23 biennial budget, this course is a part of the Farm Center’s Farmer Wellness Program that creates and connects Wisconsin farmers to mental health resources.

“Farming is very unique and farmers feel more comfortable working with people that understand the daily stressors they face,” stated DATCP’s Division of Agricultural Development Bureau Director Jayne Krull.

“The goal of this program is to give people working with farmers a better understanding of what makes them unique and how they can best support them.”

JUNE | JULY 2022

The course is available at no cost on the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Continuing Education Program website. Agricultural lenders, milk haulers, nutritionists, veterinarians, farm equipment technicians and others that provide services to farmers regularly are encouraged to take the training. Each module includes a 15 to 20-minute video presentation followed by interactive questions. The course is self- paced and modules can be viewed in any order.

This course is organized into the following five modules: 1. The Culture of Farming by Cooperative Network President and CEO Dan Smith 2. Recognizing Farmer Stress by Journey Mental Health Associate Director Renee Sutkay 3. Financial Unpredictability in Farming by Compeer Financial Senior Lending Officer Paul Dietmann 4. Navigating Difficult Conversations with Farmers by Farm Transition Specialist Elaine Froese 5. R esources and Self-care for Agriculture Service Providers by Farm Well Program Director Wisconsin Chris Frakes

wfbf.com

33

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.

Waukesha County Hosts Movie Viewing Event For National Bin Safety Week, the Waukesha County Farm Bureau hosted a viewing of the movie ‘Silo’ with the Heartland Fire Department.’

Dane County YFA Members Tour J. Henry & Sons In March, Dane County Young Farmer and Agriculturist members had a wonderful time touring J. Henry & Sons in Dane.

In this more urban area, it was an eye-opening event. Other area fire departments were invited, and the hope is to let others borrow the movie to view at other fire departments.

After viewing ‘Silo,’ there was a question-and-answer session followed by ice cream. Of course, there was popcorn during the movie. There aren’t many bin rescues in the Waukesha area, but there are plenty of bins and silos and first responders need to be ready when called.

The hope is to bring awareness to these types of rescues. Those who organized the event plan to continue to work on other trainings for when the call comes in.

Members were fortunate to hear from Joe Henry as they explored the rickhouses, the bottling room and tasted some delicious bourbon. They also learned more about the seed corn and crop production side of the farm, which produces the grains used to make the bourbon.

Members were grateful for the opportunity and hospitality offered at this local business.

Iowa County Students Learn About Wisconsin Ag Products The 4-H Farm Gard event was held on May 11 at the Leix Family Farm.

District 8 Counties Promote ‘No Mow May’ Clark, Lincoln, Marathon, Portage, Price, Taylor and Wood County Farm Bureaus partnered with Zinda Insurance Group and WFBF’s Director of Sustainability Communications and Partnerships Rachel Gerbitz to promote pollinator plants in residential areas.

Vernon County Holds Livestock Handling Training In April, Vernon County Farm Bureau members hosted a Livestock Handling Training for emergency personnel at Klinkner Dairy.

Attendees learned how to safely move livestock in an effective manner and were able to practice with animals.

Vernon County Farm Bureau is compiling a list of area farmers and resources that responders can contact and use in case of an emergency involving livestock.

34

Rural Route

Fourth-grade students from Iowa-Grant Elementary School attended.

Iowa County Farm Bureau led an activity called, ‘Snacking Around Wisconsin.’ Students learned all about the different food products that are grown and made in Wisconsin.

They were very excited to receive a delicious bag of snack mix to take home with them.

Adams County Shares Earth Day Activities with Students On April 11, members from the Adams County Agriculture in the Classroom Committee celebrated Earth Day by visiting classrooms at the Coloma Elementary School.

Volunteers worked with the students and made Circle of the Earth bracelets and the edible soil.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Sheboygan County Hosts Classroom on the Farm On May 5-6, Sheboygan County Farm Bureau hosted Classroom on the Farm at Majestic Crossing Dairy Farm. Almost 1,000 teachers, third- and fourth-grade students participated in nine educational stations on the farm.

On March 12, the Marquette County Promotion and Education Committee organized a tour to Drewry Farms and Maple Syrup near Plymouth. Approximately 15 members attended and learned about the maple syrup making process.

Marinette County Sponsors Ag Venture Day

Langlade County Presents at Old Plow Day

On April 21, Marinette County Farm Bureau teamed up with Coleman FFA and sponsored the eighth annual Ag Venture Day in Coleman.

Roseann Hoffman of the Langlade County Farm Bureau conducted Ag in the Classroom presentations at the Northwoods Tractor Club’s Old Plow Day event in Polar. More than 1,000 people attended.

Twenty-four FFA members taught Coleman students from pre-K to fifth grade on specialized agricultural topics and had the fan-favorite petting zoo.

Wood County Attends Ag Career Expo In April, Wood County Farm Bureau members took part in the Power of Ag Career Expo.

They talked with 350 high school sophomores from eight local school districts about the endless career opportunities available in the agriculture industry.

District 4 Promotion and Education Barn Quilting Workshop On April 14, sixteen Farm Bureau members from the Black River Falls area got creative by attending the District 4 Barn Quilting Workshop at the Albion Town Hall.

The activity was directed by Mary Kolstad with assistance from her husband Michael.

Quilt designs were pre-etched into either 2’ by 2’ or 4’ by 4’ sections with patterns in advance so that the projects could be completed by the end of the workshop. Taping and painting were the main challenges with plenty of assistance from instructors.

The smiles on the artists’ faces and their finished projects were a good indication of the success of the workshop. The event was organized by District 4 Promotion and Education Representative Brenda Dowiasch.

JUNE | JULY 2022

Marquette County Organizes Maple Syrup Tour

Topics included corn production, dog training and care, fiber production from sheep and alpaca, forest products, tractor safety and petting zoo. The petting zoo consisted of a calf, piglet, two rabbits and two fainting goats.

Students enjoyed the day learning about agriculture and its wide range of applications.

Juneau County Cheese and Wine Tasting On March 19, Juneau County Farm Bureau hosted a cheese and wine tasting event at Club Chapparal near Wonewoc. More than 40 people attended.

The cheese was sponsored by D&T Delights and the wine was sponsored by Rural Mutual Agent Jim Wehinger.

Barron County Thank A Farmer Lunch Barron County Farm Bureau and Barron County Rural Mutual Insurance Company agents teamed up to recognize and thank the area farmers who put food on the table with a ‘Thank a Farmer’ lunch on May 14.

Boxed lunches were handed out at Almena, Cameron and Ridgeland Synergy Cooperative locations.

wfbf.com

35

Spotlight on YFA

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

Aly Sosnovske, District 8 WFBF YFA Committee Representative Farm Bureau member since 2021 Why do you value your Farm Bureau membership?

My Farm Bureau membership allows me to be a part of a second family. Being a member is a family tradition; a lot of my family is involved with Farm Bureau. Being a Young Farmer and Agriculturist chair means that I have a circle of friends I can count on for help.

My membership allows myself and other people like me to find that happy medium between their comfort zone and the strange unknown; able to see everyone and everything that is familiar, but adding in new faces. I am a part in making sure that the agriculture community continues to have a voice and future, but also making sure that there is a familiar face for people to see when they grow in their happy medium circle and form a second family.

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

So far, my favorite event was the WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference in Wisconsin Dells. I wasn’t sure what to

36

Rural Route

expect but the amount of recognition after being introduced gave me chills and goosebumps. Seeing so many people in one spot that are all working together to make a voice for the future of agriculture gave me the thrill that I’m a part of something bigger than myself. I made a lot of new connections in my first year and hope to make more in the years to come.

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

The YFA program has so many different opportunities to grow.

Whether its leadership, communication or even wanting to work with policy and government. If you give your talents to Farm Bureau and the YFA program, you will get back twice as much in experiences that will stay with you forever.

Best words of advice/words of wisdom?

Step out of your comfort zone. I never thought I would be in this position a year ago, but I was so thankful for the push I got.

Being a part of Farm Bureau gets you off the farm and exploring your county, district and state. There is no need to be shy or afraid because everyone speaks the same language, agriculture.

Get ahold of your county YFA chair on how to get involved and they will be thrilled to help you find your place in the YFA program. Don’t wait, act now! I encourage you to get involved, as a lifetime of opportunities will present themselves sooner than you know.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Collegiate Chapters Host Ag Day on Campus Events The Collegiate Farm Bureau chapters at UW-Madison, UW-Platteville and UW-River Falls each hosted an Ag Day on Campus event for LEADERSHIP students, faculty and community members. The events focused on highlighting the importance of agriculture within Wisconsin. From hands on activities and animals to Wisconsin commodity handouts, more than 150 Collegiate Farm Bureau members helped to share agriculture’s story.

UW-River Falls | April 19

UW-Platteville | April 26

UW-Madison | April 28 JUNE | JULY 2022

wfbf.com

37

FARM KIDS

Jade Silverthorn, Omro

Kori Blank, Cashton

Ashlee Quilling-Wisemiller, Colfax

Tim Featherstone, Walworth

Haily Sand, Menomonie

Kaitlyn Hefter, Brownsville

Jillian Young, Young Family Beef, Edgerton

Brianna Ripp, Lodi

Alyssa Smith, Janesville

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.

38

Rural Route

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Wanted Ag in the Classroom volunteers to help guide future volunteer trainings and resources.

Complete the online survey today!

Calling all teachers!

ENGAGE WITH EXPERTS AND EXPLORE AGRICULTURE'S IMPACT ON SOIL AND WATER

August 2 - Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center Manitowoc, WI

JUNE | JULY 2022

Learn More

forms.gle/yGFz7Kr32zBP31aXA

wfbf.com

39

AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Connecting Kids and Food “M

om, what is that smell?”, “Dad, why won’t this flush?”, “What are we having for dinner?”

Perhaps you have been the target of such inquisitions – your children, grandchildren, the neighbor’s children, nieces, nephews, students or the little kid who seems to never want to leave the grocery store without talking to everyone on the way out. They are ready to fire questions whenever something new or different enters their world.

Many of these questions revolve around something that kids interact with every day – food. Are you ready to answer the question, “Where does food come from?” (Spoiler alert: The answer is not the grocery store!)

Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom is here to help. Ag in the Classroom works to connect students, teachers and volunteers with engaging, hands-on learning opportunities designed to explore and build an understanding of where food, fiber and fuel come from. This is accomplished by applying authentic, agricultural-based content as the context to teach core curriculum concepts in science, social studies, language arts and nutrition.

Ag in the Classroom connects with classrooms through partner and volunteer supported programs including annual grants, essay contests, classroom connections and educator experiences in agriculture.

Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom

BY THE NUMBERS

232 1,500

Volunteers grew ag literacy in their communities

Hands-on Activity for Dairy or Ice Cream Month A

griscience is all around us – even in summer.

Shake up your day with this fun experiment to see how temperature can change the state of a few simple ingredients into a cool, sweet treat. It’s a fun way to celebrate June as National Dairy Month or July as National Ice Cream Month.

Ice Cream in a Bag Materials and Ingredients: • 1 c. half-and-half • 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar • 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract • 3 c. ice • 1/3 c. kosher salt • quart-sized resealable plastic bag • gallon-sized resealable plastic bag • Toppings of your choice

Directions: 1. In a quart-sized resealable plastic bag, combine half-and-half, sugar and vanilla. Push out excess air and seal.

2. Into a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag, combine ice and salt. Place small bag inside the bigger bag and shake vigorously, 7 to 10 minutes, until ice cream has hardened.

3. Remove from bag and enjoy with your favorite ice cream toppings.

Ag in the Classroom Essays Contest Entries

$9,249

Grants awarded to support local ag literacy projects.

74,786

Students and teachers reached through events and presentations.

Hungry for more?

Follow us on Facebook, join our e-newsletter list or visit our website, wisagclassroom.com, to learn how you can help students in your community and answer the question, “Where does food come from?”

40

Rural Route

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Classroom Connections: 2022 Essay Contest W isconsin Ag in the Classroom offers fourth- and fifth-grade students a fun, competitive opportunity to put their writing skills to work while exploring how agriculture impacts their daily lives.

This year’s essay question was, 'What’s

popping in Wisconsin – the value of corn to our economy.'

More than 1,500 students met the challenge and submitted essays sharing the knowledge, trivia and personal connections to Wisconsin corn.

Ag in the Classroom is excited to announce the winner, a fifth-grade student at Denmark Elementary School, Mollie Goral.

Mollie also is recognized as a district winner along with: District 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Student School County Teacher Kathryn Sorenson Allenton Elementary Washington Becky Schuett Autymn Norton Juda School Green Penny Ramos Ariana Reinsbach Fennimore Elementary Grant Emily Kamps Ayva Tulip Pepin Area Schools Pepin Tony Garner Kendall Carley Omro Elementary School Winnebago Heidi Sokolich Mollie Goral Denmark Elementary School Brown Tammy Brunette Sylvia Spear New London Middle School Waupaca Aleah Friemark Jacob Marti Home School Wood Melissa Marti Astrid Sommerfeld Luck Elementary Polk Carolyn Peterson and Kendra DeLong

Mollie’s Winning Essay - Wisconsin Corn Lend me your ears and I promise it will be a-maize-ing as we journey through the importance of corn to Wisconsin. We grow multiple kinds of corn and for many different uses that stretch beyond our states boundaries. Wisconsin contributes more than 3 million acres of fields to the corn industry and is best known for grain corn, but there are also fields of popcorn, sweet corn, and flint corn.

Grain corn (also called dent corn or field corn) isn't just used for feeding the livestock of Wisconsin, but also produces ethanol, corn oil, cornstarch, and many other non-edible items. About 50% of the field corn grown in Wisconsin is used to feed farm animals, but about 37% is used for the biofuel, ethanol. Ethanol is more environmentally friendly to the air than pure gasoline, and it's also a renewable energy source. The remaining 13% could be used for many products that involve corn including some glues, paints, ink and even shoe polish!

My favorite corn grown in Wisconsin is sweet corn. Sweet corn is often enjoyed during the summer season on the cob dripping in butter. When not eaten right away sweet corn can be preserved by freezing and canning it. In 2021, Wisconsin ranked 3rd for sweet corn production. Recently popcorn has become a more popular crop in Wisconsin. Locally grown popcorn and Wisconsin cheese is the perfect combination to enjoy. Usually grown in smaller crops, and the prettiest of the varieties, flint corn is often used as decoration in fall.

It is clear that corn production in Wisconsin is an important part of its agriculture and economy. With its many uses, from food to fuel to everyday necessities, corn plays a big role in people's lives even if you don't realize it.

The 2022 Ag in the Classroom essay contest is sponsored by WE Energies, Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board, Wisconsin Corn and the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. Special thanks to teachers, county Ag in the Classroom essay coordinators and the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Promotion and Education Committee for submitting and judging essays.

JUNE |JULY 2022

wfbf.com

41

JUNE | JULY 2022

wfbf.com

43

RURAL MUTUAL

7 Ways to Protect Your Home From Storm Damage F or some people, storms are an excuse to stay indoors and relax.

But there are many times when storms can cause damage, outages and other devastation.

Storms also are a major cause of building destruction, which can cost families and businesses a fortune. Whether your community experiences snowstorms, floods, thunderstorms, tornadoes or other natural disasters, it’s important to stay protected and know what to do in case of a storm emergency.

Each year, the National Weather Service in Wisconsin issues an average of 29 severe thunderstorm watches and 11 tornado watches. Once the weather starts to warm up and winter turns to spring, rainfall and thunderstorms become more frequent.

Here are seven ways to shield your home from potential storm damage in advance, before Mother Nature wreaks havoc.

Tips to Protect Your Home During a Storm 1. Clear Outdoor Gear When you learn a storm is in your area heading, quickly stow away unsecured patio or lawn furniture, gardening tools, sporting equipment and other outdoor items. In addition to blowing away, forceful winds can cause objects to become airborne and not only damage property but also lead to serious injury – even if the object is lightweight.

2. Remove large or Loose Tree Branches Some storms, especially those that involve powerful, highspeed winds, can cause tree branches to snap, resulting in damage to your home’s siding, nearby cars and garages or even collapsing power lines.

At least monthly, carefully inspect your yard’s trees and saw off any branches that appear loose. If you have old trees that are bent, crooked or have exposed roots from past storms or erosion, consider having them cut down by a professional tree removal service. Also, inspect branches that are near power lines on your property. If the lines can potentially fall on a power line, contact the electrical company to trim the branches.

3. Ensure Your Roof Shingles Are Secure Roofs are homes’ first line of defense against severe weather.

Especially during storm season, it’s important to make sure the

44

Rural Route

shingles are securely in place; however, shingles can shift, become damaged or even blown off during a storm. When this happens, the next step is to replace the shingles. To be on the safe side, hire a professional roofer to get the job done and identify areas of damage.

4. Invest in Standby Power A home backup generator can keep your power on, especially in instances of extreme weather. Fierce storms – or sometimes even moderate winds – can inhibit power sources for any time from a few minutes to several days.

Generators can help ensure the food in your refrigerator stays fresh, your HVAC units and fans run smoothly and that your essential electronics are able to function until power is restored.

5. Floodproof Your Home Heavy rainstorms can cause flooding, which can lead to all sorts of devastation and losses. Whether or not you live in a floodplain, if you qualify make sure your home is covered with Rural Mutual’s Limited Water Endorsement. This coverage is specifically designed to protect homes, belongings and detached garages from the costs of water damage.

6. Inspect Your Sump Pump Before summer storms are expected, check to make sure the sump pump is in proper working order. Having a battery backup sump pump installed is a key way to make sure your sump pump will continue to function and prevent drastic basement flooding if you lose power.

7. Have a Storm Safety Plan in Place In case of a weather emergency, always have a safe location for your family to seek refuge, such as your basement, an interior room with no windows or a storm shelter. If your area is in the path of violent storms that can potentially destroy buildings and homes – or worse – result in injuries or fatalities, consider evacuating the area until you’re given the all-clear to return.

Keeping your family safe is a top priority for Rural Mutual.

Having the right home insurance before storms hit can provide you with peace of mind and financial reassurance.

Contact your local Rural Mutual Insurance agent to make sure you’re protected.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

The Benefits of Bundling Insurance Policies R ural Mutual offers a variety of insurance products, including home, auto, renters, farm, business, life and health. Whether you are a business owner, homeowner or farmer, we provide people throughout Wisconsin with the coverage they need.

Bundling insurance is when you purchase multiple types of insurance, such as home and auto, from the same provider. That means your policies are in one place. Here are some reasons why you should consider bundling your insurance policies with Rural Mutual Insurance.

Bundling Ultimately Saves You Money It’s true, buying multiple insurance policies from the same company can make a substantial difference to what you pay.

Managing multiple policies through one insurance company can help reduce your premium costs, depending on the types and number of policies purchased.

For example, with a Rural Mutual multi-policy discount, you can save up to 25% on life insurance when you bundle your home, farm or country estate insurance with your personal auto or town and country auto policies. To learn more about this discount, contact your Rural Mutual agent.

Bundling Provides Convenience and Peace of Mind Bundling insurance policies under a single roof also allows you to stay in contact with the same agent every single time you have a question, want to make a change, need to submit a claim or make a payment.

Additionally, buying multiple policies from the same

Considering a New Career?

I

f you’re thinking about starting a new career, Rural Mutual Insurance provides a unique opportunity. Are you goal-oriented, self-disciplined, enthusiastic, motivated and interested in professional growth and success?

Insurance sales might be a great fit for you.

Why Having a Job in Insurance Sales is Rewarding: • Unlimited Income Potential: Most people aren’t satisfied with their current income, think they deserve more or are tired of not getting a raise or promotion. The harder you work doesn’t always contribute to how much your paycheck is. As an insurance agent, you can earn unlimited commission and residual income. You can earn money 24/7, not just 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. We also provide a base salary as you’re learning the business during the first couple of years. We know you need time to get on your feet and we are here to support you.

• Be Your Own Boss: At the end of the day, we wish we could be our own boss. As

JUNE | JULY 2022

insurance company is easier than investing in separate policies from different companies. This way, policies can be managed from the same online account or altered by the same agent therefore reducing the stress that accompanies insurance for many Americans.

Rural Mutual Offers a Number of Discounts Here are a few more ways Rural Mutual Insurance customers are able to save money, time and energy.

• Multi-Vehicle – Enjoy a multi-vehicle discount when you add more than one household vehicle to your policy.

• Good Student – Students with stellar report cards are rewarded for their good work and can enjoy discounts.

• Claims Free – You can be eligible for a discount if you have not submitted a claim in three years.

• Acquisition – New Rural Mutual farm insurance customers who add auto insurance to their policies can get the rate they are currently paying – if it is less expensive.

• Pay Plan Discount – Pay your premium every six months for a discount.

In addition, qualifying farm customers are eligible for Rural Mutual’s Farm Dividend and receive up to a 5% dividend annually.

If you need more than one insurance policy, find out how Rural Mutual’s bundling program can help lower your costs by contacting your local agent. Our agents know our products and are ready to help you design a bundle that best fits your needs.

an insurance agent, you own your own business and make your own hours. Don’t know how to run a business? We provide a mentorship program and training to help you be successful. We also provide your business with support from home office including marketing, IS, claims, underwriting and customer service.

•M ake a Difference: It’s one thing to make a lot of money, but it’s a different feeling to make a difference in someone’s life. At Rural Mutual, it starts with a promise and concludes with doing the right thing. Our team members understand the meaning of customer service, value and integrity and are active members in local communities.

Take control of your career and get the flexibility you want while earning the income you deserve.

For more information, please contact us at careers@ ruralmutual.com. wfbf.com

45

RURAL MUTUAL

Preparing for Summer Storms W

arm summer days are a welcome reprieve after a long, cool spring.

With the good comes the bad; however, and those warm days also mean summer storm season is upon us.

Unfortunately, a weather-related disaster caused by lightning, wind, hail or tornado can strike at any moment.

Every year, natural disasters cause millions of dollars in damage from fallen trees, roof damage, high winds and intense rains. While we can’t control the weather, it’s important to be prepared how to respond in case you have a weatherrelated claim.

Review Your Coverage Ahead of Time We recommend that you contact your agent on a yearlybasis to perform an annual coverage review. Regular reviews assure your policy remains a good fit for your coverage needs as life changes.

Did you move? Build a new structure on your property?

Acquire a new vehicle or new equipment? Your agent needs to know that to ensure you’re covered. We also recommend that you take a video or photos of your personal property or business property before a loss happens so you don’t have to spend time trying to remember exactly what you owned.

We understand having a claim is stressful and oftentimes property owners don’t understand exactly what is covered until they need it. “Am I covered?” will likely be one of the first questions on your mind after an event. The worst time to find out that you do not have adequate coverage is after a claim occurs.

Document Damage If a loss occurs, walk around your property and assess the damage – but remember that safety comes first. Take videos and photos of the damage. This will help you put together a list of the damaged items for your claims adjuster. When in doubt, document everything. The more detailed information you provide to your agent and adjuster upfront, the better your insurer will understand the claim and be able to provide you with better service. Look for damage such as broken windows, missing shingles off the roof, siding that has blown off, other exterior damage or water damage.

Depending on the type of damage incurred, your insurance policy will allow you to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage from occurring. This may include turning off the water, remove any standing water, cover any openings with a tarp or shutting off the electricity. More importantly, always remember to protect yourself first, and then the property.

46

Rural Route

Hire a Reputable Contractor for Repairs If you have damage from a storm, be skeptical of 'storm chasers' that knock on your door. These opportunists follow severe weather from area to area in the aftermath of a disaster.

They are not local adjusters who live in and care about the community. Instead, they capitalize on an owner’s stress by making promises about insurance payouts that they often cannot keep. They often ask the owner to sign a contract that may have unfavorable terms for the property owner.

Pause before you sign anything and make sure you understand what you’re agreeing to and what rights you may be giving up.

Instead, hire a local contractor who is reputable and will be around to service additional follow-up work if needed. Ask friends and family for referrals of contractors they may have used in the past and would use again.

In addition, ask the contractor to provide references. When a natural disaster happens, it can be difficult to obtain several estimates, but it is always a good idea to try to get several written estimates to compare price, materials and a timeline before committing to a contractor.

Make sure the estimates compare the exact same work and be wary of outliers that are very high or 'too good to be true' low estimates.

How to Report a Claim If you’re insured with Rural Mutual Insurance, choose from three convenient options to report a claim.

1. Call your agent.

2. Report it online at www.RuralMutual.com/report-claim.

3. Call 1.800.255.2150.

Once you submit a claim, a local claims adjuster will contact you with next steps and will be there to support you during every step of the process.

In an instant, Mother Nature can unleash powerful weather leaving behind storm damage to your home, farm or business, exposing your property to the elements.

Having the right insurance policy is the best way to avoid letting weather ruin your summer fun. For a free quote or to review your coverage, contact a local Rural Mutual agent at ruralmutual.com/find-an-agent.

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