Rural Route October | November 2023

FALL POLICY UPDATE

WFBF keeps an eye on wildlife, milk prices and more this fall.

YFA MEMBERS IN D.C.

Young leaders voice concerns to lawmakers while visiting Washington, D.C.

MEET THE RIEMER FAMILY

Ozaukee County family finds niches with sheep.

GIVING DAY RECAP

Members raise more than $50,000 during this annual fundraising event.

YFA AWARD FINALISTS

Finalists named in the YFA Discussion Meet and other contests.

VOICES

Columns from Krentz, Duvall, Strey and Setzer.

GATHER AROUND THE TABLE

Delicious recipes in honor of Pork Month from the National Pork Board.

GRASSROOTS IN ACTION

See what county Farm Bureaus were up to this summer.

PICTURE THIS

Farm Bureau members live in beautiful places across the state.

AG IN THE CLASSROOM

2024 Essay Contest rolls out and grants announced to support ag literacy.

RURAL MUTUAL Halloween safety tips for trick or treating.

COVER PHOTO BY AMY ECKELBERG

CHRIS BLANK

As the seasons change and the air becomes crisper, there's something uniquely comforting about the softness and warmth of wool that resonates deeply with our agricultural heritage. This issue’s feature story is about a family rooted in agriculture in many ways but especially through their flock of sheep.

While interviewing the Riemer family featured on page 12, I took in the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival held annually in Jefferson County. As a newbie attendee, I was amazed at the diversity and variety this event has to offer. It truly allows you to experience all aspects of the sheep community.

During the event, there are classes offered to learn about fiber and make all sorts of things with wool. The Stock & Whistle Stock Dog Trial was going on during the time I was there. The crowd got to watch sheepdogs show off their herding skills.

Sheep shows have a prominent spot at the festival. These are focused on market and breeding stock but there is also some room for costumes and fun competitions. There is also a hall of breeds and shearing demonstrations so attendees can learn more about the animals and husbandry practices.

Competitions like the Make it With

Wool contest showcase pieces made from wool products and strive to make wool more desirable to consumers. Wool spinners could be found within certain booths, and knitters and crocheters were stationed on a patch of grass outside of the vendor building. Walking around, it was clear that everyone was extremely proud to show off their products and knowledge.

For more than 11 years I have worked at Wisconsin Farm Bureau and something that is always exciting is learning something new or finding a new pocket of agriculture connections. As an organization that represents farms of all kinds and sizes, learning from each other and networking will always be important. Ultimately, we know that farming at any capacity has its challenges and if we take time to make connections, we might just find solutions, ideas and common ground.

I was also privileged to follow our Young Farmer and Agriculturist members to Washington, D.C., this September. It’s easy to feel frustrated and deflated in today’s world but these young leaders helped prove to our lawmakers that the future of agriculture is bright if we are given the tools to deliver. These members had to learn some new things and go outside of their comfort zones to share their story and Farm Bureau’s message on Capitol Hill. See who attended and read more about the trip on page 8.

You’ll find our YFA award finalists in this issue starting on page 17. Take time to learn more about these standout members and get prepared to cheer them on as we head into this year’s WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference.

As fall turns things cooler, the YFA award competitions are heating up. No worries though, if you find yourself cold, you just need to look for something made of wool!

Amy Eckelberg Rural Route Editor Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation

Editor

Amy Eckelberg - 608.828.5706

Designer

Lynn Siekmann - 608.828.5707

Contributors

Cassie Sonnentag - 608.828.5711

Rachel Gerbitz - 608.828.5709

Kylie Ver Kuilen - 608.828.5721

Address of Publication

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 1241 John Q. Hammons Dr. Madison, WI 53705-0550

Postmaster: Send address changes to Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 Madison, WI 53705-0550

Contact Information

608.836.5575

800.261.FARM (3276) wfbf.com info@wfbf.com

WFBF Board of Directors

Kevin Krentz, Berlin (President)

Joe Bragger, Independence (Vice President)

Dave Daniels, Union Grove

Arch Morton Jr., Janesville

Robert Nigh, Viroqua

Rosie Lisowe, Chilton

Brian Preder, Weyauwega

Brad Olson, Frederic

Brenda Dowiasch, Augusta (Promotion and Education Committee Chair)

Savannah Brown, Black River Falls (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.

What to Expect Under the State Capitol Dome This Fall

By Tim Fiocchi

While the headlines about things happening in Madison this fall are likely to be dominated by more controversial issues, Wisconsin Farm Bureau is gearing up to pursue an ambitious legislative fall agenda.

Driven by a commitment to empower and support the state's farming community, we are championing several initiatives to support Wisconsin's farmers to ensure they have the tools and programs they need to navigate today’s evolving agricultural landscape. Taking a proactive approach reflects the organization's dedication to the well-being of Wisconsin's agricultural industry and the broader rural communities it sustains.

While this is just a snapshot of the many issues we are actively working on, it provides insight into the diverse array of topics WFBF is engaged in and the multifaceted nature of the work WFBF does.

Already introduced and working its way through the legislative process, is a bill to reestablish the Farm and Industry Short Course at UW–River Falls, authored by Senator Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) and Representative Warren Petryk (R-Washington). This bill will provide the necessary initial funding for the program to move campuses. While this was not included in the biennial state budget, the bill would assist UWRF to make the Farm and Industry Short Course available for students this year.

Wildlife damage abatement reform has been a challenging issue for several years. WFBF is working diligently to address concerns while advancing key program reforms, such as removing the $10,000 damage claim cap, to achieve consensus-reached legislation that can move through the legislature quickly. This is one of WFBF’s top priorities this legislative session.

With milk prices and the shortage of milk haulers causing nightmares for dairy farmers, Farm Bureau is looking to support improved efficiencies and reduce costs in the supply chain. Recently, WFBF joined the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, Dairy Business Association and Wisconsin Cooperative Network to introduce legislation to allow all liquid milk products to operate under a Department of Transportation permit to run six-axle 98,000-pound trucks. The larger loads would reduce fuel and labor costs by moving the same volume in fewer trips.

Having not been modified for more than a decade, modifications are needed to reform the farmland preservation tax credit program. Focusing on making the program more flexible and financially viable for farmers to participate in, WFBF is supporting legislation introduced by Senator Pat Testin (R-Portage) and Representative Loren Oldenburg (R-Viroqua) to modify the credit per acre amounts for qualifying land. Given the increases in costs to comply with

requirements, the proposed changes are needed to maintain participation and the benefits provided to both farmers and the public.

A couple of bills addressing foreign ownership of land have been introduced at both the state and federal levels. WFBF is working with legislators to protect American farmland without creating negative financial consequences for agriculture or unintentionally violating the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement signed in 2020 with our largest trading partners. A provision added to the National Defense Authorization Act on a vote of 91 to 7 in the U.S. Senate would prohibit farmland ownership by foreign adversaries, their citizens and affiliates. Additionally, bills in the state legislature would limit ownership by foreign adversaries or by anyone other than a U.S. citizen or company. WFBF is continuing to work with stakeholders to achieve a viable outcome.

California Proposition 12, which prohibits selling pork and other products in California unless it is sourced from farms that conform to arbitrary operational regulations mandated by California, was recently upheld by the Supreme Court of the U.S. despite its disruptive impacts on interstate commerce. Unfortunately, this ruling creates a dangerous precedent for other states that might think they have a better idea of how Wisconsin farms should operate than Wisconsin farmers. WFBF is working with several legislators on a resolution reaffirming Wisconsin’s commitment to farmers’ rights to set the agricultural protocols on their farms as well as communicating opposition to similar laws that would prohibit the sale of agricultural products and further disrupt supply chains and drive up the cost of food.

WFBF will be actively working with legislators on these and other topics throughout the remaining months of this state legislative session. For more regular updates on these and other policy-related initiatives, please sign up to receive the Policy Pulse newsletters at bit.ly/PolicyPulseSignUp.

WFBF Testifies at USDA’s Federal Milk Marketing Hearing

As the U.S. dairy industry continues to rapidly change, federal dairy policy changes with it. However, if dairy policy is to evolve, dairy farmers need to be involved.

While Federal Milk Marketing Orders have been an important aspect of the dairy industry for more than 80 years, outside of the 2018 Farm Bill, there have not been substantial updates in nearly two decades. The COVID-19 global pandemic highlighted the challenges of volatile milk prices and outdated milk pricing and pooling provisions. These challenges have culminated as the USDA began FMMO hearings on Aug. 23 in Carmel, Indiana.

The hearings are likely to last five to seven weeks as USDA staff listens to testimony from those within the dairy industry and examine marketing issues in six subject areas: milk composition; surveyed commodity product; Class III and Class IV formula factors; base Class I skim milk price; Class I and Class II differentials; and a final category for Agricultural Marketing Service changes required to accommodate the implementation of other proposals. The American Farm Bureau has submitted proposals within the survey’s commodity products, base Class I skim milk price and Class I and Class II differentials categories.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President Kevin Krentz has ensured the voice of America’s Dairyland is heard at the FMMO hearings. Pres. Krentz testified on behalf of WFBF and its membership on Aug. 31 in Carmel, Indiana.

During his testimony, Pres. Krentz spoke about returning to the “higher of” versus the “average of”. Since the 2018 Farm Bill, the price for Class I milk (i.e., milk used to produce beverage milk products) has been calculated using the simple average of advanced Class II (cheese) and Class IV (milk powers) skim milk prices plus 74 cents. In years prior, the formula was the highest of advanced Class III and Class IV skim milk prices. The legislative change was made at the request of dairy industry stakeholders and was intended to improve risk management opportunities for beverage milk. COVID-19-induced volatility combined with the 2018 Farm Bill formula change resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars in Class I pool revenue losses compared to the old formula, renewing industry discussions on optimal Class I pricing methods.

“In 2018, the last time that the farm bill was being debated and the ‘average of’ was adopted, Wisconsin had roughly 8,800 dairy farms. At the beginning of 2023, there were about 6,000 left. That’s a loss of about 30%,” Krentz said. “Milk margins

have the lowest level since 2019 and the catastrophic $4 level on dairy margin cover was also breached for the first time. Changes as a result of the 2018 Farm Bill have cost farmers nationally almost one billion dollars since May 2020. Not to mention inputs remain high and feed costs continue to increase.”

Pres. Krentz also spoke about how de-pooling and negative producer price differentials have affected Wisconsin dairy. Pres. Krentz spoke about how a majority of his costs are spent within a 15-mile radius of his farm so the de-pooling and negative PPDs hurt not only farms across Wisconsin but rural communities as well.

“I found that 62% of expenses on my farm are spent within a 15-mile radius of my farm,” Pres. Krentz said. “Multiply that

by the six thousand dairy farms in Wisconsin and that’s heavily affected small communities across the state where those dollars are spent over and over.”

Pres. Krentz concluded his testimony by calling for a system that works for both farmers and processors.

“I believe in fairness in pricing and transparency in dairy pricing. Processors and farmers, both must be profitable. But we have to ask ourselves how many new farms have been created in the last couple of years? How many new dairy farms the last couple of decades?” Pres. Krentz asked. “We need a pricing system that works for dairy farmers and pays them for the commodity they produce. Without these reforms, we’ll continue to see small farms leave and greater consolidation in the industry. These priorities are not only in keeping with Wisconsin’s Dairyland heritage but will benefit farms across the order.”

Advocate for Agriculture in D.C. Young Farm Bureau Members

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmer and Agriculturist members met with Wisconsin’s congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., to discuss issues impacting agriculture on Sept. 13. Issues discussed included Waters of the U.S., Federal Milk Marketing Order reform and the upcoming farm bill.

The Sept. 11-15 trip was available to Farm Bureau members active in the Young Farmer and Agriculturist Program. The program provides members between the ages of 18 and 35 with an opportunity to enhance their leadership skills while networking with their peers.

While in Washington, D.C., YFA members met officials from the American Farm Bureau Federation.

“This trip allowed me to see our grassroots organization in action,” said Iowa County Farm Bureau member Megan Yager. “Visiting with our lawmakers drove home the importance of our Farm Bureau membership and involvement.”

A visit to the Brazilian Embassy on Sept. 12 included an overview of the country’s agricultural commodities, export markets and their focus on sustainability initiatives. They also met with other state Farm Bureaus for a presentation by the National Pork Producers Council.

The 21 young leaders met with Senator Tammy Baldwin, Senator Ron Johnson and their member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

“It was nice to see agriculture represented at the national level,” said Wood County Farm Bureau member Jason Behrend. “It was impressive to see the power we have when we all come together as Farm Bureau members.”

Members who attended the D.C. trip were: Whitney Rathke, Ozaukee County; Michelle Stangler, Dodge County; Scott Timm, Green County; Brady and Kat Peper, Sauk County; Andrew Dal Santo, Grant County; Kent Jerrett, Grant County; Megan Yager, Iowa County; Heather Erdman, Eau Claire County; Jeff and Sara Huber, Adams County; Natasha Paris, Green Lake County; Sally Turpin, Juneau County; Eric and Rachel Harmann, Door County; Kelly Wilfert, Manitowoc County; Jason Behrend, Wood County; Julie Wadzinski and Eduardo Elenes-Mejia, Barron County; and Ben and Haily Sand, Dunn County.

This trip is supported by Rural Mutual Insurance and the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation.

For more information about Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist program, visit bit.ly/WIYFA.

Members engaged with Sen. Tammy Baldwin and explained the need for a farm bill and changes to the Federal Milk Marketing Orders.

YFA members stood for a photo in front of the Brazilian Embassy. Attendees were (L-R): Eric Harmann, Rachel Harmann, Scott Timm, Whitney Rathke, Jason Behrend, Kat Peper, Brady Peper, Heather Erdman, Sara Huber, Kent Jerrett, Megan Yager, Sally Turpin, Natasha Paris, Ben Sand, Haily Sand, Rural Mutual Vice President of Underwriting Gail Luedke, Julie Wadzinski, Kelly Wilfert, Eduardo Elenes-Mejia, Michelle Stangler, Jeff Huber, WFBF President Kevin Krentz, Andrew Dal Santo and WFBF Director of National Affairs

Tyler Wenzlaff.

YFA members joined Farm Bureau members from Minnesota and Iowa during their trip for a presentation from the National Pork Producers regarding California's Proposition 12 legislation.

Sen. Ron Johnson spoke with YFA members during their time in Washington, D.C. Topics included farm bill and Waters of the U.S.

Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Four finalists have been selected for the 2023 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award®.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the prestigious award recognizes farmers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water, and wildlife habitat in their care.

In Wisconsin the $10,000 award is presented annually by Sand County Foundation, American Farmland Trust, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.

The finalists are:

Bartling’s Manitowish Cranberry Co. of Manitowish Waters in Vilas County: Brothers David and Steven have improved cranberry yields with nutrient management for better plant and soil health. They planted five acres of native pollinator gardens for the honey bees needed to increase crop pollination. Efficient water management has reduced input costs and improved water quality. The cranberry leaves that come off the plant when cranberries are harvested is later sold to local gardeners and landscapers.

Full Circle Farm of Seymour in Shawano County: Full Circle Farm builds soil organic matter while sequestering carbon on its pastures. Rick Adamski, Valerie Dantoin and their son Andrew rotationally graze beef cattle, raise pastured hogs and laying hens, and grow 10 acres of vegetables. Their farm’s woodlands, wetlands, natural pond, riparian buffers and fence lines provide habitat and migration corridors for wildlife, birds and beneficial pollinators.

Joe Hovel of Conover in Vilas County: Joe Hovel protects unique and fragile habitats in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. A woodland owner since in the 1970s, he began prioritizing the protection of ecologically important land in the 80s. He now manages 3,300 acres in several counties, including Porcupine Tree Farm and the Upper Wisconsin River Legacy Forest. Hovel owns County Line Wood Products and is the president and founder of the Partners in Forestry Landowners Cooperative.

Noll’s Dairy Farm of Alma in Buffalo County: The Noll family has practiced soil and water conservation efforts on their farm overlooking the Mississippi River for generations. Curtis, Mark and Scott Noll grow cover crops and utilize no-till and contour strip cropping practices to prevent soil erosion. They restored and actively manage an ecologically rare dry bluff

prairie that is home to many endangered species. Their managed forest provides oak timber production and wildlife habitat.

This year’s recipient will be revealed at November’s meeting of the Wisconsin Board of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Earlier this year, owners of Wisconsin farmland and forests were encouraged to apply (or be nominated) for the award. Applications were reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders.

“These finalists represent the diversity of agriculture in Wisconsin. From dairy to cranberries, Wisconsin farmers share the goal of being safe and sustainable while keeping their farms productive. We applaud these farmers for their efforts,” said Kevin Krentz, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President.

“These award finalists are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s land ethic is alive and well today. Their dedication to conservation shows how individuals can improve the health of the land while producing food and fiber,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO.

The first Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award was presented to woodland conservationist Gerry Mich of Appleton in 2006. The 2022 recipients were Joe and Christy Tomandl of Medford.

The Leopold Conservation Award in Wisconsin is made possible thanks to the generous contributions from American Farmland Trust, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Sand County Foundation, Culver’s, Compeer Financial, McDonald’s, The Nature Conservancy, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, We Energies Foundation, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board, Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association and the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board.

In his influential 1949 book, "A Sand County Almanac," Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage, which he called “an evolutionary possibility and an ecological necessity.”

Sand County Foundation presents the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 27 states with a variety of conservation, agricultural and forestry organizations. For more information on the award, visit leopoldconservationaward.org.

Full Circle Farm

Joel Hovel

Noll's Dairy Farm

Bartling’s Manitowish Cranberry Co.

Ver Kuilen Hired as WFBF’s Communications Coordinator

Kylie Ver Kuilen has been hired as Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Communication Coordinator.

In her role, Ver Kuilen will be responsible for editing and designing newsletters and overseeing the content and distribution of the organization’s e-newsletters. She will contribute to the Rural Route magazine, assist with promotional pieces and media releases, and maintain the organization’s website.

“Though I’m not a farmer myself, I come from a long line of dairy farmers. It’s an honor to serve and give back to the industry that has provided generations of my family, myself included, with the lives and values we have today,” Ver Kuilen

said. “I’m looking forward to contributing my communications experience in a meaningful way to farmers around the state of Wisconsin.”

Ver Kuilen graduated from UW-Madison with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communications. She has four years of communication experience in news reporting, policy advocacy campaigns, marketing and event coordination. Most recently, Ver Kuilen served as the Communications and Events Coordinator for the Association of Program Directors in Surgery.

“Wisconsin Farm Bureau is excited to have Kylie joining the team,” said WFBF Executive Director of Public Relations Amy Eckelberg. “Her background in writing and overall communications experience will provide a great value to our entire membership.”

Ver Kuilen began her role on Aug. 1.

"It’s an honor to serve and give back to the industry that has provided generations of my family, myself included, with the lives and values we have today."

RIEMER FAMILY FINDS THEIR

By Amy Eckelberg

Located within 20 miles of downtown Milwaukee, you’d never know the serenity of the Riemer family’s farm unless you pull in the driveway.

The first view you get is the historic barn which was relocated in the 1920s piece by piece from Milwaukee using horses and wagons. The barn used to hold the family’s herd of Guernseys until 1996 when the herd was dispersed.

The farm, owned by several generations of the Riemer family back in 1914, was originally about 150 acres but was subdivided when the dairy cows vacated. Left with eight acres and a desire to have their children involved in agriculture, Kevin and his wife, Lorrie, decided to try raising sheep.

The plan worked and the family has been raising their flock since 2008 when they bought their first two ewes.

“Sheep were a way that we could keep our family connected to agriculture and to the farm,” explained Lorrie.

They have learned a lot along the way regarding feeding and genetics but the goal of staying connected to agriculture has remained the focus.

Kevin shared, “I say this often and the kids roll their eyes, but I didn’t get sheep with the intention of raising champion sheep, I got them with the intent to raise champion kids.”

IT’S SHOWTIME

Kevin and Lorrie have five children: Sarah, Josh, Tim, Paul and Hannah. Each family member has a responsibility and role with the flock.

Like many youth exhibitors across the state, the Riemer family enjoys showing their animals at competitions not only in Wisconsin but across the Midwest. The family has shown at their local county and state fair, but also at shows in Indiana, Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska, Kentucky and Kansas.

When asked about what their favorite show was, they all agreed that the Wisconsin State Fair was the most competitive and exciting.

All the kids have shown sheep at one point with Hannah still showing as a youth exhibitor. The three boys are the most involved and do the most managing with the flock.

As the oldest, Sarah sees herself as the overall supporter.

“I am not the best showman but do my best to support my

siblings and the sheep industry overall,” she said.

Josh does a lot of marketing, logistics and genetics research for the family’s show sheep.

“We created Ridgeview Show Lambs to market our lambs,” said Josh. “When you buy from us, we will be there to mentor you if you want that.”

Josh also serves as the president of the Wisconsin Club Lamb Association.

Tim was unanimously voted the workhorse of the family.

“He’s always working and he’s willing to do anything,” said Sarah. “He just wants the job done.”

Their youngest brother, Paul, was deemed the best showman by his siblings. He 'humbly' agreed that this is true.

As the official youngest member of the family, Hannah is the only one still showing at youth shows. She also sews blankets and leg wraps for the sheep.

The family is proud of the genetics they have built through the years within the flock. Kevin notes that because so many people have helped and continue to help them, they try to be mentors for other exhibitors.

Collectively the family agreed the biggest reward is seeing lambs they sold to exhibitors do well in shows across the state.

“We work together fairly well most of the time,” Sarah laughed.

The family gets to as many sheep shows as possible during the season. This year there were 10 shows in the lineup.

Kevin and Lorrie Riemer

“When we show sheep it’s a team effort. We aren’t cheering on one member of the family in a sport. We are the team.”

EATING LOCAL LAMB

According to AmericanLamb.com, more than 50% of lamb consumed in the U.S. travels upward of 10,000 miles from New Zealand and Australia to make it to a dinner plate. Imported lamb takes at least 30 days to get to America.

It’s easy to agree that American lamb is a fresher option, but many consumers don’t know how to find locally-raised lamb products. As the national check-off program for the sheep industry, the American Lamb Board tries to help by leveraging a search opportunity for local opportunities on its website.

At the Riemer Farm, Tim manages meat sales and the logistics that go with it. Their customers are mainly ones who found them through word of mouth.

“We don’t do a lot of meat sales just because we don’t have the quantity of lambs, but we have a waiting list,” shared Tim.

Processing meat has also been a challenge for the livestock sector, sheep included.

One of the processing plants closest to the Riemers recently stopped production which has given one less option for an already small list of processors who offer custom butchering.

“We have the interest in our meat, and we could grow it if we wanted to,” said Tim. “But right now, we just want to focus on the show animals and build that.”

MAKE IT WITH WOOL

While wool is a natural product from sheep, there isn’t a high demand for the product.

“The general wool market is extremely saturated,” said Kevin. “While people do value high-end, specialty and colored fibers, there is not much of a market for just plain commercial wool.”

Kevin noted that since the U.S. Military has gone back to

wool dress uniforms, they are once again a leading purchaser. However, the supply remains much higher than the demand creating little value for most wool.

To help share the expansive possibilities with wool, Lorrie is the state director for the Wisconsin Make it With Wool contest which takes place annually at the Sheep and Wool Festival in Jefferson. This contest is a national contest hosted in several states.

“I like helping with the program because it helps showcase the other side of our industry – wool and fiber,” said Lorrie. “The entire purpose of the program is to create exposure to the versatility of wool products in the fiber space.”

According to the competition webpage, contestants must sew, knit or crochet their garments and they must be made from at least 60% wool fabric or yarn. Contestants are divided into adult and multiple youth age divisions with categories for Garments, Novelty, Wearable Accessory and Made for Others.

The state contest is supported by several local agricultural groups, including Jefferson County Farm Bureau. These supporters make it possible to provide a luncheon and prizes for the event which took place on Sept. 9 during the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival.

The festival is one of the largest in the country bringing in visitors from across the U.S. but also other countries. The event focuses on all facets of the sheep and wool community. Not only are there sheep showing competitions but also stock dog competitions and a Walk & Knit & Walk & Crochet Challenge Relay.

You can also visit the hall of breeds to learn more about the variety of sheep and take part in a shearing demonstration or the lambing area. Fiber art classes are available to show how to do a variety of things with wool.

“The festival brings together every aspect of our community,” explained Lorrie. “Isn’t that what’s important? Coming together to share the story of what we do?”

The event takes place each year during the second weekend of September. Information can be found by visiting wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com.

Tim prepares one of his animals for grooming in the basement of the remodeled dairy barn.

Sarah and Hannah pose with their past submissions for the Make it with Wool contest.

Walking through the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival you will see various products made with wool.

Brothers Paul, Josh and Tim Riemer talked about the lessons learned by raising and showing sheep.

Giving Day

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation held its second annual online Giving Day on Aug. 2 via the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Facebook and Instagram pages. All proceeds from Giving Day support education and leadership development programs through the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation including Agriculture in the Classroom, Young Farmer and Agriculturist, Promotion and Education, Collegiate Farm Bureau and the Leadership Institute. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation also supports 4-H and FFA programs.

THANK YOU SPONSORS

Thank you to these sponsors for their support of Giving Day

GIVING DAY RAISED MORE THAN $55,000. Insurance Company

COUNTY FARM BUREAU CHALLENGE

Thank you to all of the county Farm Bureau’s who participated in the County Challenge. County Farm Bureaus raised more than $30,000 for the Foundation with a match from the WFBF Board of Directors of more than $5,000.

• Calumet County Farm Bureau

• Columbia County Farm Bureau

• Dane County Farm Bureau

• Door County Farm Bureau

• Eau Claire County Farm Bureau

• Fond du Lac County Farm Bureau

• Grant County Farm Bureau

• Green Lake County Farm Bureau

• Jackson County Farm Bureau

• Jefferson County Farm Bureau

• Kenosha County Farm Bureau

• Kewaunee County Farm Bureau

• Langlade County Farm Bureau

• Manitowoc County Farm Bureau

• Marathon County Farm Bureau

• Marinette County Farm Bureau

• Milwaukee County Farm Bureau

• Monroe County Farm Bureau

• Oconto County Farm Bureau

• Outagamie County Farm Bureau

• Ozaukee County Farm Bureau

• Pierce County Farm Bureau

• Racine County Farm Bureau

• Shawano County Farm Bureau

• Sheboygan County Farm Bureau

• St. Croix County Farm Bureau

• Superior Shores Farm Bureau

• Walworth County Farm Bureau

• Washington County Farm Bureau

• Waukesha County Farm Bureau

• Waupaca County Farm Bureau

• Winnebago County Farm Bureau

GIVING DAY DONORS

• AAIC

• Krentz Family Dairy, Inc

• Lincoln Financial Advisors

• Redtail Ridge Dairy LLC

• Rural Mutual Insurance, James Wehinger

• Rural Mutual Insurance, Susan Brugger & Nicole Steinbach

• Rural Mutual Insurance, Jenni Zinda-Mancl

• Strohm Ballweg

• United Cooperative

• Cheryl Ackerman

• Christina Benson

• Theresa Bollig

• Savannah Brown

• Chad Bruss

• Neil Christianson

• John Church

• Sandra Cordes

• Paul & Jill Dalebroux

• Dave & Kim Daniels

• Brenda Dowiasch

• Scott Eastwood

• Jonathan & Amy Eckelberg

• Jason Feist

• Laura Finke

• Robert Fox

• Matt & Mandy Ganser

• Rachel Gerbitz

• Christa Hoffman

• Reuben Hopp

• John Hromyak

• Jeff Huber

• Morgan Huegli

• Derek & Bobbi Jo Husmoen

• Trevor & Melissa Jacobson

• Troy Jeske

• Stan Kaczmarek

• Lou Korth

• Brad & Nicole Laack

• Michael & Lynn Leahy

• Bob & Lisa Leege

• Joe & Rosie Lisowe

• Luke & Ashley Lisowe

• Lynn Luckasson

• Gail Luedke

• Anzy Maerz

• Steve & Marie Mason

• Allison McCormick

• Rich & Darci Meili

• Dan & Julie Merk

• David Mickelson

• Shawn Monien

POWER HOUR PRIZES

Congratulations to these power hour winners:

• Chad Bruss, Green Lake County - 4 pack of Blink Security Cameras

• Chris & Kelly Pollack, Fond du Lac County - Blackstone griddle

• Neil Christianson, Shawano County - Case IH pedal tractor donated by Case IH

• Arch Morton Jr.

• Jason Mugnaini

• Samantha Munzer

• Kathy Muth

• Robert Nigh

• Laurel Olson

• Laurie Peterson

• Chris & Kelly Pollack

• Brian Preder

• Daryl Pulsfus

• Colton Rohde

• Matt & Beth Schaefer

• Rebecca Schleif

• Sally Schoenike

• Kari Schoenike

• Ariella Schreiber

• Mark Schuster

• Sam & Julie Skemp

• Kate Smith

• Allen & Cassie Sonnentag

• Mary Sosnovske

• Bradley & Christine Uken

• Austin & Wendy Volkert

• Tammy Wiedenbeck

• Andy & Patti Wilhelme

• Bob Fox, Outagamie County - Taste of Wisconsin basket with a giftcard for Badger Brewing Company, Wollersheim Wine and Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery cheese curds

• Lindsay Fowler, Fond du Lac County - Yamaha Off Road Experience at Road America for 4 people. Donated by Yamaha and Road America

• Sam & Julie Skemp, Dane County and Paul & Jill Dalebroux, Kewaunee County, won a pair of tickets to see Luke Bryan courtesy of the Midwest Farm Report

Chad Bruss Neil Christianson Chris & Kelly Pollack Bob Fox

District DISCUSSION MEET QUALIFIERS

The Discussion Meet provides YFA members with the chance to demonstrate their speaking skills on agriculture-related topics. Contestants are judged on their problem-solving skills as they discuss timely topics with their colleagues. Each of Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s nine districts held a competition where the following contestants were chosen to advance to the state competition held at the WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference at the Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Wisconsin Dells, Dec. 1-3.

Alana Biermeier Juneau County

Andrea Edquist Kenosha County

Erica Gentry Jackson County

Gavin Sinkula Manitowoc County

Ann Glowacki Door County

Brooke Trustem Rock County

Chad Bruss Green Lake County

Sam Pinchart Iowa County

Karl Hundt Jefferson County

Whitney Rathke Ozaukee County

Nate Zimdars Dane County

Scott Timm Green County

Ben Cooper Lafayette County

Andrew Dal Santo Grant County

Allison Bragger Buffalo County Andrea Rippley-Schlais Buffalo County

Paul Lippert Wood County

Will Litzer Marathon County

Hallie Kopczynski Oconto County

Isaac Christenson Polk Burnett

Sierra Solum Barron County

Stephanie Jentz Outagamie County

Lauren Vandenlangenberg Shawano County

Jessica Batterman Sheboygan County

Farm Bureau Names FARMING FOR THE FUTURE AWARD FINALISTS

Four finalists will vie for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist Farming for the Future Award this December.

“This year’s finalists are some of the best and brightest young farmers in Wisconsin,” said WFBF President Kevin Krentz. The Farming for the Future Award recognizes YFA members who excel in farming, leadership ability and involvement in Farm Bureau and other organizations. Applicants must have derived a majority of their income from on-farm production. Each finalist will conduct an interview with judges at the 2023 WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Wisconsin Dells, Dec. 1-3. The winner of the Farming for the Future Award will receive $1,500

Sydney Flick District 2, Columbia County

Sydney is the manager at her family's farm Jazzy Jerseys in Lodi. Sydney manages the cows, team members and accounting for the 800-cow dairy. Recently the farm added a farm store and began retail selling beef, both of which she currently manages. She is active in dairy promotion and serves as the Cows on the Concourse committee chair. Sydney is the YFA chair for Columbia County Farm Bureau. In their spare time, she and her husband Eddie enjoy cross country skiing throughout the winter.

courtesy of GROWMARK, Inc., the opportunity to attend the 2024 American Farm Bureau Federation YF&R Conference in Omaha, Nebraska, will be eligible to participate in the 2025 YFA Washington, D.C., Fly-In and be a guest of WFBF at the 2024 YFA Conference. The total value of the prize package is valued at more than $5,000.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation co-sponsors this contest with GROWMARK, Inc., and Rural Mutual Insurance Company. Information about all YFA contests can be found on wfbf.com.

Last year's Farming for the Future Award recipient was Kelly Oudenhoven from Outagamie County.

Jacob and Eliza Bobolz District 2, Rock County

Jacob and Eliza farm in rural Janesville, growing corn, soybeans, hay and Simmental beef cattle. Jacob farms alongside his parents, Loren and Jan Bobolz and works part-time for Johnson Tractor. Eliza works for Broaster Company. The couple has one daughter, Sadie.

Victoria Wachholz District 5, Marquette County

Brad resides in Plymouth with his wife Nicole and their son Porter. Brad has been a member of the Sheboygan County Farm Bureau for more than 10 years. He is the majority partner of Lake Effect Farms, LLC based out of Sheboygan Falls, where he raises corn, soybeans, alfalfa and winter wheat in addition to custom spraying, planting and harvesting for surrounding farms.

Victoria and her husband Aaron own a diversified organic farm in Marquette County where they custom raise organic dairy heifers, have a small dairy and beef herd, raise farrowto-feeder and farrow-tofinish hogs, chickens and organic crops. Victoria direct markets grass-fed beef, all-natural pork, and poultry products through their on-farm and online retail store. Victoria is a member of the Marquette County Farm Bureau where she serves as the Promotion and Education Committee Chair, represents the County Farm Bureau on the fair board and manages the Farm Bureau food stand at the Marquette County Fair.

Brad Laack District 6, Sheboygan County

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Announces OUTSTANDING AGRICULTURE PROFESSIONAL FINALISTS

Four individuals have been selected as Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Outstanding Agriculture Professional Award finalists and will compete in December for the top honor.

The Outstanding Ag Professional Award recognizes members of Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist Program who excel in their leadership abilities and involvement in agriculture, Farm Bureau and other civic and service organizations.

“We have four outstanding agricultural advocates in this year’s state competition,” said WFBF President Kevin Krentz. “This contest highlights how these individuals have positively impacted Wisconsin agriculture and Farm Bureau while inspiring others to do the same.”

Outstanding Agriculture Professional Award applicants are agriculturists who have not derived a majority of their income from a farm (that they own) for the past three years.

Tammy Wiedenbeck District 3, Grant County

Tammy is the Senior Brand Manager for Hilbert Communications, Bug Tussel Wireless and AT&T Subsidiaries. She is also the seventh generation on her family’s farm near Lancaster and manages a photography business. In addition to her involvement with the Grant County Farm Bureau, Tammy was appointed to the Nutrition and Health Committee and Executive Committee on the National Cattlemen's Beef Board. Tammy is a lifetime member of the Grant County Cattlemen's Association, Lancaster FFA Alumni and UW-Platteville Alumni.

Brooke Trustem District 2, Rock County

Brooke is a sixthgeneration dairy farmer from Evansville. She also works full-time off the farm as the Marketing & Events Coordinator at BouMatic in Madison. Brooke is the Rock County Farm Bureau YFA Chair and a participant in the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Leadership Institute Class XV. She is also active with the Evansville FFA Alumni and Wisconsin Agricultural and Life Sciences Alumni Association.

Each finalist will conduct an interview with judges at the 2023 WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Wisconsin Dells, Dec. 1-3. The winner of the Outstanding Agriculture Professional Award will receive $1,500 courtesy of GROWMARK, Inc., the opportunity to attend the 2024 American Farm Bureau Federation YF&R Conference in Omaha, Nebraska, will be eligible to participate in the 2025 YFA Washington, D.C., Fly-In and be a guest of WFBF at the 2024 YFA Conference. The total value of the prize package is valued at more than $5,000.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation co-sponsors this contest with GROWMARK, Inc., and Rural Mutual Insurance Company. Information about all YFA contests can be found on wfbf.com.

Last year’s Outstanding Agriculture Professional Award recipient was Christa Hoffman from Shawano County.

Kaitlyn Kesler District 3, Crawford County

Kaitlyn is the director of communications and outreach for the Wisconsin Beef Council. Her passion for agriculture started on her family's registered Jersey farm near Gays Mills. She served as the 48th Wisconsin Fairest of the Fairs and the 71st Alice in Dairyland. In 2022, Kaitlyn received the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation 35 under 35 Award for Sustainable Storytelling because of her work with the Wisconsin Beef Council. She is currently participating in the WFBF Leadership Institute.

Sweney District 2, Dodge County

Julie is the executive director of the Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium based in Madison. She serves on the Dodge County Farm Bureau board of directors and as the communications committee chair, is a graduate of the WFBF Leadership Institute and served as the first president of the UW-Madison Collegiate Farm Bureau. She enjoys spending time with her husband Todd and their daughter Sadie while attending festivals, agritourism events and state parks across Wisconsin.

Julie

FARM BUREAU® LEADERS PRESERVING AGRICULTURE

CONGRATULATIONS FINALISTS

Thirty-five individuals have been selected as Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s 35 Under 35 Award finalists. The award is presented by WFBF’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist program in partnership with Insight FS.

The 35 Under 35 program recognizes the creativity and innovation of young farmers and agriculturists who are preserving agriculture through leadership in environmental, social and economic activities.

In the second year of the program, 45 innovative and deserving YFA members submitted video applications. Applications were evaluated for their involvement in one of five categories –Sustainable Environment, Sustainable Service, Sustainable Self, Sustainable Storytelling and Sustainable Future.

Each finalist will receive an embroidered vest sponsored by Insight FS. The top individual in each category will be announced during the WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference in December. The finalists are also invited to attend an exclusive networking reception during the conference.

SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT : Recognizes individuals who are good stewards of the land and their resources.

• Jason Behrend, Wood County

• Eldon Henthorne, Vernon County

• Ben Sosnovske, Lincoln County

• Scott Timm, Green County

SUSTAINABLE SERVICE: Recognizes individuals who are serving agriculture through trade skills or advisory roles.

• Alana Biermeier, Juneau County

• Erin Elsner, Taylor County

• Katie Reineking, Sheboygan County

• Julie Sweney, Dodge County

• Tammy Wiedenbeck, Grant County

• Eric Wuthrich, Green County

• Nate Zimdars, Fond du Lac County

• Brady Zuck, Rusk County

SUSTAINABLE SELF: Recognizes individuals who are serving their community through leadership, mentorship and mental health advocacy.

• Whitney Barnes, Brown County

• Andrew Dal Santo, Grant County

• Emily Herness Oates, Trempealeau County

• Emma Huber, Adams County

• Nicole Laack, Sheboygan County

• Brittany Olson, Barron County

• Leah Weninger, Washington County

• Tess Zettle, Green County

SUSTAINABLE STORYTELLING: Recognizes individuals who use their platform to share agriculture’s sustainability successes.

• Joanna Guza, Brown County

• Libby Hafften, Jefferson County

• Sarah Hetke, Sauk County

• Stephanie Hoff, Dane County

• Rachel Klinkner, Monroe County

• Teyanna Marx, Dane County

• Heidi Strey, Eau Claire County

SUSTAINABLE FUTURE: Recognizes individuals who are preserving generational success on the farm.

• Lindsay Baneck, Jefferson County

• Sydney Brooks Howard, Waupaca County

• Adam and McKenzie Gruna, Portage County

• Josh Huber, Adams County

• Jacki Moegenburg, Ozaukee County

• Kristin Quist, Polk/Burnett County

• Brooke Trustem, Rock County

• Austin Vandertie, Door County

Benefits Save Columbia County Member Time and Money

Columbia County Farm Bureau member Chris Davis saves time and money with his Wisconsin Farm Bureau member benefits.

Chris grew up in the Wisconsin Dells area on his parents’ first-generation dairy farm. Having been involved on his family’s farm his whole life, Chris attended UWPlatteville to pursue a degree in animal science. Upon the completion of his degree, Chris returned home to manage the dairy.

Managing a farm comes with expenses and continual maintenance, both of which can take up valuable time and bring unexpected costs. However, Wisconsin Farm Bureau members can save time and money by taking advantage of exclusive pricing and free shipping with Grainger.

Chris shared that he uses his member benefit with Grainger “all the time” and described the process of using his Farm Bureau member benefit as “very easy.”

“The account is already set up,” said Chris. “All I have to do is log in and everything is saved and ready to move forward.”

Wisconsin Farm Bureau members get deep discounts on

critical equipment and supplies and enjoy free standard ground shipping when ordering items online, over the phone or at your local Grainger branch.

Chris not only uses the Wisconsin Farm Bureau benefit with Grainger, but also frequently keeps an eye out for other deals exclusive to members.

“In addition to Grainger, there are so many other benefits offered to Farm Bureau members,” Chris said. “Sometimes you just have to look at the website or in the magazine to see what benefits are available. I think there are so many that a lot of people don’t utilize or know about.”

Chris went on to add that using Wisconsin Farm Bureau benefits adds up to make an impact on his finances.

“The benefits can start adding up in the long run whether it’s from hotels to car rentals to even vehicle or equipment purchases. In today’s economy with high interest rates, low commodity prices and low milk prices, every penny counts. One of the benefits of the equipment purchases or vehicle is an additional cash-off after your bottom dollar deal,” Chris said. “It’s great to be a Wisconsin Farm Bureau member.”

To save time and money with Wisconsin Farm Bureau benefits, visit wfbf.com/membership/member-benefits.

WITH SHAWANO COUNTY’S

AMANDA WILLIAMS 5MINUTES

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m married and have two boys who are seven and five, with another child on the way. We live outside of Shawano, where we raise a few Holstein show heifers for the kids. I graduated from UWPlatteville with an animal science degree with a double emphasis in dairy science and agriculture business. We dairy farmed for a few years in Lafayette County before selling the cows and moving north. Now, I am an independent dairy nutritionist with Barton Kiefer Dairy Consulting. In our free time, we enjoy working with our heifers and going to shows, riding side-by-sides and watching the boys play sports. I also enjoy fitness and reading.

What do you enjoy most about your career in agriculture? Why?

I love being able to work with dairy farmers every day! Ultimately, I love cows and being in the barns with them. It broke my heart when we had to sell but this role lets me continue working with cattle and farmers. One of my favorite things is helping my clients reach their big goals. Feeding cows is great, but knowing what you're doing is directly impacting the farm's profitability is truly what keeps me at it day after day.

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

In the nutrition side of the agriculture world, the volatility of the markets is always a challenge. Prices are continuously changing and with that, we are tweaking and changing diets to keep the cows healthy and the farmers profitable.

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

Selling our cows when COVID-19 hit was a defining moment in my life. It set me down a path that I never imagined my life going. Up until that point, I had one goal and when I lost it, I was forced to figure out how to pivot and start over. Truth be told, it's ended up way better than I could have ever imagined. Do I miss the cows and being an active dairy farmer? Yes, but I also love what I get to do daily now.

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

I am super proud of my involvement with our county’s Brunch on the Farm. It is such a great event to get the general public out on a farm and to be able to teach them about agriculture.

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

I'm a fitness junkie. I love to lift weights and workout. It's my form of stress relief and self-care!

Why are you proud to be a Farm Bureau member?

I am proud to be a Farm Bureau member because of what this organization does. Being a voice and advocating for this great industry is important to me. I love being able to further educate the public on agriculture.

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

Jump in! There are always things going on and ways to get involved. Jump in and put yourself out there!

Being Part of Something Bigger

A Message from WFBF President Kevin Krentz

build, years to strengthen and yet only seconds to destroy. The strength of Farm Bureau’s brand comes from generations of solidifying who we are.

As farmers and agriculturists, we are experts in our field; we are trusted leaders to be the voice of agriculture on and off the farm.

Farm Bureau’s professionalism is a major reason I joined the organization more than 25 years ago. Our reputation is a big part of the working relationships we have with other organizations, businesses and lawmakers.

Whether you are testifying to Congress or talking to your town board, Farm Bureau can support you with the tools and resources you need to be successful.

When you think of Farm Bureau, what comes to mind?

Is it the red and black of our logo? Maybe it’s having a chocolate shake at the county fair? Or you are reminded of a certain event or even a certain person?

Whatever makes you think of Farm Bureau is part of our brand. It is a part of our identity and who we are as an organization.

Our brand is something many of us do not regularly think about or may even take for granted. Brands take time to

Farm Bureau has stood up for Wisconsin agriculture for more than a century. Whether advocating with our legislators, training up-and-coming leaders, informing students at schools, or engaging with consumers, Farm Bureau has an extensive brand footprint.

Supporting and representing the more than 47,000 members in Wisconsin is something I do not take lightly. I am responsible for being a reflection of our membership, Wisconsin agriculture and Farm Bureau’s brand, and am incredibly proud to do so.

As leaders, each of you carries the Farm Bureau brand, too. We all play a part in Farm Bureau’s success.

We also can’t forget this mindset when engaging with our consumers. While we are the ones with the deepest understanding of agriculture, we must share that with others through a respectful demeanor and mindset. Listening to understand and appreciating the interest in food production is a crucial step in building connections and trust. Farm Bureau can help with leadership and advocacy training that gives you the tools of support when communicating with others about agriculture.

The strength of Farm Bureau is built from the voice of our members. Farm Bureau continues to support members and advocate for agriculture. Continuing to strengthen the Farm Bureau brand is something we will always be working to do, and we couldn’t do so without dedicated leaders like you.

Thank you for your professionalism and for carrying out the Farm Bureau brand in everything you do.

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

EPA Fails the Test on WOTUS, Again A Message from AFBF President Zippy Duvall

know our families, our neighbors and our communities are counting on us. That’s why farmers across the country take active steps to protect the water on and around our land—from planting cover crops to hold the soil in place to cutting back on tilling to prevent run off. At Farm Bureau, we have long called for EPA to recognize and respect farmers’ stewardship by providing clarity with clean water regulations.

the ambiguity from the rule. Here’s one example: EPA has left the definition of “relatively permanent” water as vague as possible. This gives them plenty of room to regulate areas that look nothing like waterways to an ordinary person—and leaves farmers with no way to know what parts of their land might be “waters” in EPA’s eyes.

Second chances don’t come along every day. But every once in a while, we get a chance to start fresh, learn from our mistakes and do better. The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers had that chance with WOTUS. They had a prime opportunity to bring clarity to clean water regulations and respect the efforts of farmers and ranchers across the country. Instead, the EPA threw that second chance away, and chose a shortcut rather than clearing away the muddy uncertainty and government overreach.

Farmers and ranchers know the importance of clean water firsthand— our livelihoods depend on it—and we

Just a few months ago, farmers saw a landmark victory at the Supreme Court in the Sackett case. The Justices unanimously struck down EPA’s significant nexus test and forced the agencies to make substantial changes to the 2023 WOTUS rule. If ever there was a time for the EPA to go back and take input from farmers and ranchers on the clarity we need, this was it. Instead, the agency charged forward, ignoring clear and important concerns raised by the Court, 26 states and farmers and ranchers across the country.

At every opportunity, Farm Bureau and our grassroots members have been coming to the table and making our voices heard on this issue for years. EPA has simply chosen not to listen. This time, they didn’t even invite feedback or comment on their new rule. Although the EPA did remove significant nexus from the new WOTUS rule because of the Court decision, they have not removed

For nearly a decade now, farmers and ranchers have been left guessing as regulations bounce back and forth. If the EPA had listened to farmers, they could have finally brought certainty and achieved a clear, permanent WOTUS rule.

While this latest WOTUS rule is not the one we were hoping for, let’s not lose sight of the fact that the courts— including the Supreme Court—have often put the EPA back in check when it comes to its blatant overreach. We have achieved awesome victories together as we advocated for what is right for our farms, ranches and our natural resources. We will keep pressing forward, back to the courts again, until we have the clear rules that farmers deserve.

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

Farm Bureau Proud A Message from WFBF

Communications Intern Heidi Strey

in agriculture, I quickly realized how much Farm Bureau meant to me and its members.

On my 18th birthday, my parents presented me with my very own Farm Bureau membership. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to play an active role in the organization. It had always been my dream to intern for Wisconsin Farm Bureau and that dream became a reality in January. I went through the interview process and a few weeks later I was selected as WFBF’s Communications Intern.

Public Relations team projects and wrote the feature story for the Rural Route. Every week was a new adventure full of creative thinking.

From January to August, I had many interactions with Farm Bureau members across the state. I felt the Farm Bureau family feeling come full circle knowing each member was playing their own role in the agriculture community but coming together to advocate as one voice. You can’t put a price on the opportunities, voice and overall benefits Farm Bureau provides for its members.

Growing up, I was your typical ‘Farm Bureau kid’. I attended many Farm Bureau meetings, events and, of course, the annual trips to the Kalahari. At the time, I didn’t know much about the organization. All I knew was that there was good food everywhere we went and that my dad liked to talk a lot! As time passed and I found my place

My experience as a Farm Bureau intern has been nothing but amazing. I’ve connected with the staff, members and many others involved in the agriculture industry. Being the communicator between members and consumers is a diligent task, and I hold it with the utmost care and responsibility. During my internship, I wrote blogs for Gather Wisconsin and the WFBF website, interviewed Farm Bureau members, managed social media accounts, photographed events, assisted with the

After the completion of my internship, I am off to UW-River Falls to complete my senior year. I am an active member of UWRF Collegiate Farm Bureau, and I hope to become more involved in my county Farm Bureau upon graduation. Wherever life takes me, I know for a fact that I will always be Farm Bureau Proud.

Strey served as WFBF's Communications Intern. She is a senior at UW-River Falls majoring in agricultural

Fall Season Brings Changes

A Guest Column by AgriVisor’s Karl Setzer

Many are now above the USDA and closing in on the initial prediction.

We are also seeing yield estimate adjustments on soybeans. The USDA is currently estimating an average U.S. yield of 50.9 bushels an acre, down from their initial projection of 52 bushels. This is where most attention is falling as the U.S. needs a crop no smaller than 52 bushels to allow for a slight build in soybean reserves given current demand outlooks. Even though harvest has yet to begin, field scouts are already predicting larger production than the USDA is forecasting.

The U.S. harvest season is underway in southern regions and before long we will see activity in the heart of the Corn Belt as well.

So far, the only spring crop seeing much harvest activity is corn. The U.S. Department of Agriculture initially projected a record U.S. corn yield of 181 bushels per acre in the Ag Outlook Forum last spring. The USDA has lowered this estimate and now has it at 175.1 bushels an acre. However, initial yield data has the crop performing better than expected and many analysts have

The start of the U.S. harvest season is being welcomed by interior grain buyers and processors. The U.S. pipeline is starting to run low on inventory as country movement is minimal at best. The recent drop in commodity values has greatly diminished the desire to make cash sales to cause a tightening in stocks. Buyers have not shown much urgency in extending coverage as they feel that within a few weeks they will see deliveries of cheaper new crop bushels. While this is likely, how much movement we will see is starting to be debated.

Over the next few weeks, we will start to see a shift in market focus from the U.S. to South America as those countries begin their planting season. This has

the U.S. to those countries as well. The last several years in South America have been influenced by the La Niña weather pattern which brings drought to that region of the globe. La Niña has ended and is being replaced by El Niño which is more favorable for commodity production. This has elevated production forecasts, primarily in Argentina. Argentine corn and soybean production is expected to double from last year to this year. When we add in elevated Brazilian crop sizes, this will provide much more inventory for an importer to pick from and will allow them to show more hesitation in buying.

The bottom line is that the volatility we have seen in the commodity market during the past year is unlikely to diminish any time soon. In fact, we will likely see elevated choppiness in the market for the new crop marketing year and beyond. This makes it even more important than ever to devise a marketing plan and stick to it moving forward as windows for sales will present themselves, but these will be narrower than we have seen in recent years.

Setzer is the commodity risk analyst for AgriVisor, one of WFBF’s member benefits.

FARM NEIGHBORS CARE

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

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

What are some ways you can participate?

Send

Send a Send a card card

For more information or resources visit wfbf.com/fa rm-neighbors-care-campaign

How Did I Get Here?

Transitioning from the Young Farmer and Agriculturist Program to Promotion and Education

All of us have milestones in life that make us stop and wonder how the heck did I get here? Sometimes they are startling, like when I realized my students were born after 2002 and I was old enough to be their parent. Other times it is more subtle like aging out of the Young Farmer and Agriculturist program. Regardless of whether it is a shock or happens more slowly it forces us to figure out how we fit now.

Making the transition from a YFA member to a general member can be difficult for some members. Thankfully for me, the transition from focusing on YFA to Promotion and Education was easy and I can credit that to the relationships I built while I was still a YFA member.

Here are a few pieces of advice to help build those relationships.

1. Be involved in your county as a YFA member. That involvement could be helping at a dairy breakfast, working in your county fair food stand, or attending any other county event. The main thing is meeting the older members in your county because relationships can only be built after you meet people. Those relationships are so important when it comes to the board asking for volunteers for board positions or committee positions and when trying to create new events.

2. Ask older members to be a part of YFA events. Fond du Lac County YFA organized a pizza fundraiser for several years

and always asked the board members to help with pizza making. Inviting the board provided an opportunity for board members and YFA to get to know each other because it was an atmosphere where people could share stories and laugh together. Older and younger members were shown a different perspective of each other and it made the county stronger. Many of Fond du Lac County’s board members were YFA members at one point.

3. Support members when they propose new ideas. Change is hard and people like what they are comfortable with, so they tend to criticize when others suggest something new or different. Constant criticism tends to drive members away because over time they begin to feel defeated. So the next time someone makes a suggestion rather than telling them it won’t work or we’ve already tried that. Pause and think of a constructive way to help them. If something failed in the past, troubleshoot why and maybe together you will come up with a solution to that problem. Having a good relationship will make this piece of advice easier to accomplish, so begin that process early.

We will inevitably have to make transitions in our lives. The success of those transitions begins with the preparation that we put in early on and the relationships we build along the way. Just remember we are all in this together.

Jenny Leahy is the District 5 representative on the WFBF Promotion and Education Committee. She is a farm kid who became a social studies teacher. Jenny grew-up on a dairy farm in Fond du Lac County and attended UW-Oshkosh where she received her bachelors and Master’s degrees in education. Jenny teaches social studies at Berlin High School and helps on her family’s farm on weekends and summers.

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

With Jenny Leahy

AROUND THE TABLE

Recipes and photos courtesy of the National Pork Board, Des Moines, Iowa. Visit gatherwisconsin.com for more recipes.

Garlic Dijon Pork Tenderloin

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb. pork tenderloin

• 1/4 c. whole grain Dijon mustard

• 2 Tbsp. honey

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 1/4 tsp. black pepper

• 1 Tbsp. olive oil

• 2 sweet potatoes (peeled and 1/4" dice)

• 1 red bell pepper (1/4” dice)

• 1 poblano pepper (1/4” dice)

• 2 scallions (sliced on a bias)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. In a small bowl whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt and pepper. Rub each pork tenderloin with the sauce until thoroughly coated.

3. Over high heat, add olive oil to large cast iron or oven-safe skillet. Sear tenderloin on each side, then add sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, and poblano to the skillet. Top with remaining sauce, place into oven. Roast until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, about 10 to 15 minutes. Let rest for 3 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with scallions.

Ground Pork Cabbage Roll Soup

INGREDIENTS

• 2 c. green cabbage, chopped

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil

• 1 lb. ground pork

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

INSTRUCTIONS

• 1 28-oz. can diced tomatoes

• 1 14-oz. can tomato sauce

• 4 c. chicken stock

• 1 tsp. paprika

1. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add the diced onion and ground pork. Cook for approximately 3-5 minutes.

3. Add in the minced garlic, paprika, marjoram, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Stir in the cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, rice, and chicken stock

• 1/2 Tbsp. marjoram (or oregano)

• 1 c. white rice (uncooked)

• 1 tsp. salt

• 1/2 tsp. pepper

and bring the mixture to a low boil.

5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and ground pork reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

6. Stir throughout the process to be sure the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom. Once the rice is done, serve immediately.

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.

Kenosha County Hosts CPR, First Aid and Fire Extinguisher Training

Kenosha County Farm Bureau held an informative meeting July 22 for Farm Bureau members at the Paris Township Hall and Fire Department. The class was led by Farm Bureau member and Paris Rescue EMT Dean Holloway. Participants were instructed on basic CPR procedures and how to use AED defibrillators. They were then shown how to properly use a fire extinguisher by putting out an actual fire. The class concluded with a demonstration on how to apply a tourniquet properly as well as how to use Narcan and where they could get it. As an extra bonus, participants were given a backpack with supplies including gauze pads, pads that have a blood clotting drug in them and two kinds of tourniquets.

Jackson County Farm Bureau Recognizes Outstanding Farm Family

Jackson County Farm Bureau, in conjunction with the Black River Falls FFA Alumni and the Jackson County Fair, recognized the Outstanding Farm Family of Jackson County. The event included an awards dinner on Aug. 2 at the Jackson County Fairgrounds. Master of ceremonies and committee chairman, Leonard Olson, presented the Outstanding Award plaque to this year’s recipients, the William McNulty Family of Black River Falls.

District 2 Hosts Farmers and Agriculturists Unlimited Discussion Meet

The inaugural District 2 Farmers and Agriculturists Unlimited (FAU) Discussion Meet took place on July 31 at the Verona Town Hall, held in conjunction with the District 2 Young Farmer and Agriculturist Discussion Meet and policy development meeting. This Discussion Meet for Farm Bureau members over 35 years of age focused on the topic: “From wind to solar, alternative energy conversations have been rising to the top in many rural communities across Wisconsin. What role, if any, should Farm Bureau play in the conversations surrounding alternative energy, land use and policy to ensure that needs and wants of all members are met?” Interesting conversations were had and a very good discussion about the topic and potential solutions were shared. Shawn Monien was awarded the FAU Discussion Meet traveling trophy for his winning performance in the contest.

District 5 Holds Promotion and Education Summer Tour

The District 5 Promotion and Education summer tour was held at North Road Flower Farm located near Pickett. More than 15 people attended from five counties in the district. Attendees toured the farm, learned about fresh floral design and created their own fresh cut flower bouquet to take home.

Marinette County Showcases

Successful Red Barn Fair Stand

Visitors to the Marinette County Fair were treated to 17 flavors of delicious ice cream cones, dishes and shakes at the Farm Bureau/ FFA Ice Cream stand. The red barn is a well-known iconic dairy promotion at the fair which took place from Aug. 24-27.

Oconto County Fair Stand Creates New Opportunities

The Oconto County Farm Bureau made some exciting changes to their 2023 fair booth giving fair attendees the opportunity to buy ice cream and milk, make a pinecone bird feeder, participate in a raffle for some great prizes, get a temporary cow tattoo, check out dairy promotional items, register their farm or home for ‘Century Property’ status and, of course, sign up for Farm Bureau membership.

Green Lake County Brings Together All Members

Green Lake County held its all member picnic on July 30 at their fair food stand building. More than 40 members attended. Following the meal, the county held its annual cornhole tournament.

Wood County Fair Stand Creates Friendly Competition

Wood County Farm Bureau thought outside of the box when recruiting workers for their fair stand. Since 2015, the Wood County Sheriff's Office has put a team of volunteers together to help scoop ice cream. New this year, other agencies volunteered their services, creating a fun competition amongst the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, Marshfield Police Department and Marshfield Probation and Parole.

Shawano County Holds Farm Tour

On July 23, the Shawano County Farm Bureau Promotion and Education committee hosted a picnic and farm tour at the Matsche Farms in Birnamwood. More than 150 people attended the event which featured a delicious picnic dinner and a wagon ride tour of the dairy and its manure digester.

Fond du Lac County YFA Scavenger Hunt

The Fond du Lac County Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Agriculturist Committee conducted an ear tag scavenger hunt during the county fair. Fair exhibitors had to find the large Farm Bureau cow ear tags placed around the fairgrounds and scan the QR code on the back of the tag. Attendees learned more about exhibits at the fair, submitted a photo of themselves with the tag and had the chance to win a Culver’s gift certificate.

Collegiate Farm Bureau Leaders Selected

School is back in session and the collegiate Farm Bureau chapters are back in action for another year. WFBF has established collegiate Farm Bureau chapters at UW-Madison, UW-Platteville and UW-River Falls. Each chapter is a student-run organization with an elected officer team and a faculty advisor.

Chapter officers plan a yearly program of work that typically includes regular meetings to conduct business, social activities, service projects and Farm Bureau events and activities on the county, state and national levels.

Chapters are provided support from the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation and Rural Mutual Insurance Company.

UW-Madison

(from left): Jenna Gries, Manitowoc County, Secretary; Isaiah Hoffman, Pennsylvania, Treasurer; and Brianna Wanek, Monroe County, President. Officers missing from photo: Ethan Jackowski, Walworth County, Vice President; Amanda Bender, Walworth County, Ag in the Classroom; and Emily Stumpf, Fond du Lac County, Public Relations.

UW-Platteville

(from left): Lila Sloan, Illinois, Ag Day on Campus; Ashlyn Sarbacker, Dane County, President; Sara Skalitzky, Jefferson County, Historian; Montana Sarbacker, Dane County, Brag About Ag; and Quincee Johnson, Rock County, Secretary. Officers missing from photo: Bre Broers, Illinois, Vice President; Hannah Wieczorek, Sauk County, Treasurer; Breanna Cisketti, Illinois, Ag in the Classroom; Lexi Lichty, Illinois, Ag Day on Campus; and Autumn King, Waukesha County, Brag About Ag.

UW-River Falls

(from left): Emma Statz, Jefferson County, Secretary; Katrina Hoesly, Brown County, Reporter; Carter Beaulieu, Clark County, Treasurer; Lashawna Vogel, Brown County, Ag Day on Campus; Seth Cupery, Columbia County, CAFES Representative; Aleah Cole, Minnesota, Ag Day on Campus; Ben McMeeken, Washington County, Vice President; and Kendra Jentz, Grant County, President.

Collegiate Farm Bureau at UW-Madison

UW-Platteville Collegiate Farm Bureau

UW-River Falls Collegiate Farm Bureau

WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference | December 1-4, 2023

Notice of Annual Meeting of Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Cooperative

In accordance with the bylaws and pursuant to the direction of the Board of Directors, the undersigned Secretary hereby gives notice that the Annual Meeting of members of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Cooperative, will convene on Sunday, Dec. 3, at 3 p.m. at the Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin.

- Bradley Uken, Secretary

Notice of Annual Meeting of Rural Mutual Insurance Company

In accordance with the bylaws and pursuant to the direction of the Board of Directors, the undersigned Secretary hereby gives notice that the Annual Meeting of members of the Rural Mutual Insurance Company will convene on Sunday, Dec. 3, at 3 p.m. at the Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin.

- Bradley Uken, Secretary

For most up-to-date information regarding the WFBF Annual Meeting, visit

wfbf.com/events/annual-meeting-yfa-conference.

Get Ready for the AFBF Annual Convention in Salt Lake City

Farm Bureau members from all 50 states and Puerto Rico will meet in Salt Lake City, Utah, for the AFBF 105th Annual Convention, Jan. 19-24, 2024.

The 2024 annual convention will again feature a variety of issue conferences, top-notch speakers and the IDEAg Trade Show. The annual convention registration fee is $100 per person, which covers entrance to all sessions.

Farm Bureau members will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of optional pre- and post-convention tours hosted by Utah Farm Bureau, including several that highlight the diversity of Utah agriculture.

Registration materials for the AFBF Annual Convention are available on the WFBF website at wfbf.com/events/annualmeeting-yfa-conference or by contacting Bob Leege, WFBF Executive Director of Member Relations, at 608.828.5710 or bleege@wfbf.com.

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.

Christina Benson, Darlington

Eli Strebig, Medford

Rachel Klinkner, Cashton

Tracy Metz, Coloma

Rebecca Mueller, Forestville

Krista Dolan, Dodgeville

Donna Cardarelle, Saukville

Vicki Engebretsen, Cecil

Savanna Drewek, Waukesha

2024 Ag in the Classroom Essay Contest Rolls Out

The W isconsin Ag in the Classroom Essay Contest is ready for 2024. Here are the top Q&As for this year’s contest. What is the Essay Contest?

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation’s Ag in the Classroom Essay Contest is an opportunity for fourth- and fifth-grade students to explore Wisconsin history, geography and economics through the lens of Wisconsin agriculture. An annual essay prompt challenges students to research and write an informative essay. The contest supports Wisconsin academic standards including English Language Arts and Social Studies. Top essays are recognized at the county, district and state levels. The generous support of sponsors and volunteers makes this learning opportunity possible each year. The 2024 Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom is sponsored by WE Energies and the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation.

What is this year’s essay prompt?

“Wisconsin Agriculture is Fruit-Full!”

This year’s essay contest focuses on our state’s sweetest agriculture industry - fruit! Wisconsin is the number one producer of cranberries and is a leader in the production of cherries, apples and strawberries. The essay will challenge students to explore our state’s history, communities and economy and discover how they have been brought to fruition through agricultural endeavors.

What are the Prizes?

Fourth- and fifth-grade essay winners will be recognized in each of the nine Wisconsin Farm Bureau districts. District winners will receive commemorative medals and a prize pack.

New in 2024, state essay winners will be invited to receive their awards and meet the Wisconsin Secretary of Agriculture,

Trade and Consumer Protection in July 2024. In addition to a prize pack, the state-winning essays and author pictures will be displayed at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center in Manitowoc; published in Rural Route and featured in the 202425 Ag in the Classroom calendar.

What’s new for 2024?

Educators have asked for the opportunity to keep each grade level judged as its own category at the district and state levels. In addition, new student writing tools have been created to support the research, writing and editing process. A Google Drive folder that can be easily shared with educators and volunteers alike houses supporting lessons, resources and activities.

A special grant from the CHS Foundation and National Ag in the Classroom is bringing educators’ requests for more essay resources to fruition with on-farm and processing tours, classroom education kits and digital interviews with Wisconsin fruit growers. These exciting contest changes will help make it a bit easier for teachers to access lessons and links to build the essay contest into curriculum.

When is the entry deadline?

All entries are due April 15, 2024. The contest is open to fourth- and fifth-grade students in public, private and home school programs. Entries can be submitted through the school or by a parent or guardian. This year, entries will again be accepted online and in hard copy format. Where can I learn more?

Full rules, links to supporting lessons and activities and entry procedures for the contest as well as volunteer opportunities can be found at wisclassroom.org.

Grants Support Agriculture Literacy Projects

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation’s Ag in the Classroom program has awarded $4,500 to schools and educators to support innovative core curricula initiatives that incorporate agriculture.

Groups, schools and educators can apply for up to $500 as part of the Ag in the Classroom’s ‘Ag in All Classrooms’ grant program.

Educators and projects that have been awarded funding for Fall 2023 include:

• “A Sweet Treat: Ice Cream in the Classroom” - Tyler Foote, Vincent High School of Agricultural Sciences

• “What's Your Watershed Footprint?” - Kim Pokorny, School for Agricultural and Environmental Studies (SAGES)

• “Let It Rot! Investigating the impact of earth worms on soil health” - Tina Johnson, River Trail School of Agricultural Science

• “Aquaponics - Raising fish and plants in a closed environment.” - David Zimmermann, River Trail School of Agricultural Science

• “The Community Farm” - Karen Weidner, OH Schultz Elementary

• “Read it, Eat it, Learn it!” - Keri Radtke, Mineral Point Elementary

• “Farm to Classroom - Embedded Agriculture in High School Culinary Education” - Mollie Haubenschild, Waukesha West, South, North

• “Drones in Agriculture” - Nick Gagnon, Chippewa Falls High School

• “ESW FARM Exploring Job Options in Rural Wisconsin”Cally Ehle, Easter Seals Wisconsin FARM Program

Applications for Spring 2023 Ag in All Classroom grants will be open in October. Visit wisagclassroom.org to learn more.

Eight FFA Chapters Awarded Inaugural Grants

Eight Wisconsin FFA Chapters have been awarded $500 grants through the inaugural FFA Food for America Ag Literacy Grant program. These grants will provide financial support to FFA chapters with top-notch plans for executing and evaluating agriculture literacy activities as a part of Wisconsin FFA’s Food for America program.

During the 2022-23 school year, Wisconsin FFA Chapters reported activities reaching more than 48,000 Wisconsin students and community members. Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom and Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation are excited to support FFA members who are dedicated to our shared mission of increasing agricultural literacy across grades PreK12 through collaboration with educators, industry experts and volunteers.

Learn more about the FFA Food for America program at wisconsinaged.org.

Congratulations to the 2023-2024 grant recipients:

• Thorp FFA Chapter – ‘Something Sweet’

• Watertown High School FFA Chapter – 'LEAP into the Life of a Pollinator’

• Osseo-Fairchild Middle/High School FFA Chapter –‘AgriScience Days’

• Oconto Falls High School FFA Chapter – ‘Shoes to Fill’

• Wisconsin Heights FFA Chapter – Food for America –‘Grain Sensory & Wisconsin Commodities Taste Testing’

• Freedom High School FFA Chapter – ‘Freedom FFA’s 3rd Grade Farm Tour’

• D. C. Everest FFA Chapter – ‘Track my Agriculture Knowledge’

• Wisconsin Dells FFA Chapter – ‘Elementary Ag Day and Safety Day’

‘Tis the Season for Learning with Ag in the Classroom

Fall is in full swing and Ag in the Classroom is connecting students and educators alike with new resources and lessons.

Ag in the Classroom Calendar –These school year calendars include Wisconsin ag facts, ag literacy project ideas and important dates. Calendars are made possible by the Wisconsin Soybean Association

Expedition Agriculture with Alice in Dairyland – Back for a second year, this Wisconsin Social Studies presentation for elementary students has been updated to include dairy goats, poultry, beef and Christmas trees. Lessons and materials are funded by a USDA Specialty Crops Block Grant. Request a free presentation at aliceindairyland. com/expedition-agriculture.

AgBadging Field Guide – Back for a second year, this hands-on activity guide explores what students eat, wear and use every day. Guides are supported by Compeer Financial and can be requested through the online store.

Exploring Wisconsin Agriculture E-Learning – Social Studies aligned online learning designed for Wisconsin fourth graders. Free online learning lessons are supported by hands-on activities and lesson extensions. Discover these resources and more at wisagclassroom.org.

Thank You Foundation

About

Rural Mutual Named One of the Best Insurance Companies

Rural Mutual Insurance Company has been named to the Ward’s 50® list of top performing property and casualty insurance companies, marking the 15th consecutive year the company has been recognized for this award. Ward Group analyzes the financial performance of more than 2,900 property and casualty insurance companies in the U.S. annually and identifies the top performers in each segment based on objective data and subjective quality measures.

In selecting Ward’s 50, companies pass financial stability requirements and measure their ability to grow while maintaining strong capital positions and underwriting results. Each Ward’s 50 company has passed all safety and consistency

screens and achieved superior performance during the five analyzed years.

“Not only is this a special recognition due to it being awarded for 15 years in a row, but it is particularly satisfying to earn this recognition during a very difficult year for both Rural Mutual and the property and casualty industry as a whole,” said Rural Mutual Executive Vice President and CEO. “Wisconsin is a great home for quality property and casualty insurance companies, which means we have stiff competition. Earning this award amid an excellent group of quality competitors is something we’re very proud of.”

Merk notes that this recognition reinforces Rural Mutual’s promise that when a claim happens, they have the financial stability to help their insureds rebuild following times of unintended financial loss.

What to Consider when Venturing into Agritourism

M any farms diversify their income by adding forms of agritourism. This can bring visitors to farms in various ways, whether it’s educational to learn where food comes from or just for fun to run through a corn maze and pet animals. While preparing your property, don’t forget about your insurance to make sure you’re covered for your new ventures.

What is Agritourism?

Agritourism is an agricultural or aquacultural activity that is primarily operated on the insured’s location for the purpose of tourism or entertainment for monetary compensation.

Example of Agritourism

• Corn maze

• Hayrides

• Farm tours

• Petting farm

• Event venue rental

• Pick your own fruit or vegetable

• Pick your own pumpkin patch

Is Farm Insurance Enough to Cover Visitors to My Farm?

If visitors pay you for business activities, our Rural Mutual base farm policy insurance isn’t enough. You need special coverage to make sure you’re covered properly. That’s where our agritainment endorsement comes in to provide that extra layer of protection.

Depending on the type of activities on the farm, you may want to consider adding a commercial policy in conjunction to make sure all your exposures are covered. Talk with your insurance agent to see what the best coverage is for your specific farm.

Why is Event Insurance Necessary if I Already Have Insurance for My Property?

If it’s a regular occurrence that you’re booking events multiple times a month throughout the year, it’s recommended you should provide the coverage yourself by a commercial policy or an agritainment endorsement on your farm policy. If events are not frequent, perhaps a few times a year someone approaches you, an event day policy can come in handy.

You can buy event coverage policies specific for an event, such as a wedding, including liquor liability coverage. If you’re running a business, look at a commercial policy so your guests don’t have to get their own coverage. However, if they do provide their own, ask for a copy of their event policy so you can review the coverage and make sure the policy has adequate protection rather than taking their word.

Talk with your agent to evaluate each unique exposure individually, ways to mitigate exposures and make sure the proper policy is in place if something happens. Guests on your property don’t know the property like you do. Make sure you cover all your bases to keep visitors safe and no exposures left unknown.

What Makes Rural Mutual Different?

Many businesses begin as a farm and start adding on agritainment revenue streams and don’t realize they’re crossing the line transitioning from agricultural to commercial. Make sure you stay in contact with your agent as your business evolves to have them out to your farm for a tour and show them around what you plan to do.

Rural Mutual underwriters, loss control, agents and insureds will walk the farm property together and talk about the operation if it fits the standard farm policy or has a need for an endorsement. Having staff and agents across the state, local to your area, makes Rural Mutual unique and offers you security protection.

Rural Mutual Earns A+ Rating for Sixth Consecutive Year

AM Best has announced that Madison-based Rural Mutual Insurance Company has earned a Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) for the sixth year in a row. Rural Mutual is one of six single-state insurers in the U.S. and the only single-state insurer in Wisconsin to receive an A+ rating.

AM Best is a global rating agency with a unique focus on the insurance industry. Their rating is based on their opinion of a company’s ability to pay claims, debts and other financial obligations in a timely manner. Only a small percentage of U.S. Property & Casualty insurance companies overall are awarded an A+ (Superior) rating from the agency, and achieving the highest rating is especially rare for single-state insurers.

Rural Mutual’s strong balance sheet and operating performance has allowed them to grow policyholder surplus. They are continually prioritizing product and customer service enhancements to improve policies to better fit insured’s needs.

Dan Merk, Rural Mutual Executive Vice President and CEO, credits the company’s success to its strong reputation built on years of success, excellent products and unwavering service that its employees and agents provide to their customers.

“Reaffirming our Superior rating is not something we take for granted. It’s been a tough year for many carriers due to several factors,” said Merk. “We’re very fortunate to remain financially stable with a positive financial outlook. Our employees and agents continue to show their dedication to protecting Wisconsin.”

Halloween Safety Tips for Trick or Treating

Trick or treating is a fun Halloween tradition that many kids look forward to. Collecting candy as they’re dressed up as their favorite character, athlete or movie star is a lifelong memory.

However, safety is a top priority on this holiday as the risk of accidents increases with a larger number of pedestrians out and about walking near the road.

Be Visible

Put a reflective sticker, band or light on your child. Costumes that are a dark color are hard for drivers to spot. Using reflective tape or gear makes sure they are visible to drivers. This is especially important towards the end of trick or treating hours as dusk is settling in. It’s also a good idea to bring a flashlight or headlamp for additional light at the end of the night.

Dress Appropriately

Living in Wisconsin, the weather at the end of October can be unpredictable. One year you might need a winter coat and the next year no jacket at all. Make sure everyone is dressed appropriately to enjoy their time outside. On cool evenings, put on an extra layer under the costume. Dressing in layers is a good idea as it’s easy to take a layer off as you get warm. It’s a good idea to throw an extra layer and potentially hat and mittens as necessary in a backpack to bring along as the evenings cool down.

Watch for Traffic

Remind kids to watch for cars when crossing the road.

• Cross only cross in a crosswalk, not between cars or in the middle of a road.

• Stay on the sidewalk.

• If there is not a sidewalk, walk on the far side of the road facing traffic.

Not only is it fun to trick or treat with a group, but there’s safety in numbers. Parents should always accompany kids. Have a discussion beforehand about safety guidelines including, walk don’t run, look both ways before crossing the street, and only go to houses with their porch light on.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Trick or treating is an exciting time for kids and their emotions are running high. Remind them to be aware of their surroundings as they’re out walking in other people’s yards on unfamiliar ground. This could include uneven sidewalks, stairs or low hanging branches. Taking an extra second to keep your eyes on the ground could make the difference in avoiding trips, falls or other injuries.

Inspect Candy

The first thing kids want to do when they get home from trick or treating is dive into their candy. Take a minute to pause and have an adult look over the candy for any pieces that are already opened, choking hazards, or anything unusual. Also be aware of any allergens the child may have and remove any candy that shouldn’t be consumed.