Rural Route

Rural Route wisconsin Farm bureau federation’s

june | july 2011 • vol. 17 no. 3 | www.wfbf.com

Hey Look!

June is Dairy Month Institute Grads in D.C. Meet Two Dairy Farm Families Recall Fever Sweeps Wisconsin

Farm Bureau’s

NEW WEBSITE Launched Pa g e 3

“WHY DO I USE FS?” “I need information. FS gives it to me.

We’ve been grid mapping since they first came out with it.

Sampling specific sites–checking soil fertility–only applying what we need where we need it.

FS has really been on the leading edge of doing that here.

And it wound up saving us a lot of money.

Why do I use FS? FS gives me the knowledge and information I need to make me a better, more profitable farmer.

Ken Reinhardt

Corn and soybean grower

Local knowledge. Proven results.”

THE LOCAL ANSWER TO YOUR WORLD OF NEEDS.

™

©2011 GROWMARK, Inc. A11540E

contents

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16 12 26

Features

Every Issue

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3

News

20

Member Benefits

22

Opinion

25

Leadership

32

Ag in the Classroom

36

Foundation

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Rural Mutual

Meet Board Member: Rosie Lisowe

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Institute Grads Travel to D.C.

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Meet Members: Derek and Charisse Orth

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What’s Driving Corn Prices?

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County Farm Bureau Hosts School Tour

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editor’s note from casey langan I love cows. In fact, if it wasn’t for cows, I would have never ended up working for Farm Bureau.

Oh sure, there’s been lots of influential forks in the road of my zig-zaggy career path that have led me to this point. Like had I chose baseball and football over 4-H and FFA in my youth, maybe I’d now be the editor of Sports Illustrated instead of Rural Route. Or had I ever achieved something higher than a ‘C’ in math, maybe I would have become an accountant instead of a farm reporter. Who’s really to say at this point?

I know this much: my childhood fascination with my grandpa’s herd of Holsteins had a profound impact on my life. From the time I was old enough to venture to the barn alone, I spent countless hours sitting on an old stool watching him milk. That led to me helping with the feeding, cleaning, haying, calving and milking that takes place on a 50-cow farm. I was never much of a tractor and crop guy, and I dreaded tobacco harvesting season, but it was my love for cows that sent me on a path off the farm but never far from our state’s agricultural community.

This brings me to this issue of Rural Route that arrived in your mailbox during June Dairy Month. I had the opportunity to interview Derek and Charisse Orth for our member profile. It occurred to me that Derek and I have something in common other than marrying our wives last October 9; just as bovines will often follow a ‘cow path’ beaten down by those before them, we’re both on paths influenced by cows.

I love visiting with and writing about families like the Orths who are living out their dairying dreams. I suppose in some ways I’m doing the same. This June Dairy Month I’m reminded that while the cows that started me on my path are long gone, in many ways they are still with me.

Casey Langan Rural Route Editor Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation

Rural Route wisconsin Farm bureau federation’s

Editor Casey Langan 608.828.5711 Assistant Editor Sheri Sutton 608.828.5706 Address of Publication Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation 1241 John Q. Hammons Dr. PO Box 5550 Madison, WI 53705-0550 Postmaster: Send address changes to Farm Bureau’s Rural Route PO Box 5550 Madison, WI 53705-0550 Contact Information 608.836.5575 800.261.FARM (3276) www.wfbf.com info.demingway@wfbf.com WFBF Board of Directors Bill Bruins, Waupun, (President) Jerry Bradley, Sun Prairie, (Vice President) Dave Daniels, Union Grove Richard Gorder, Mineral Point Joe Bragger, Independence Lloyd DeRuyter, Cedar Grove Wayne Staidl, Peshtigo Don Radtke, Merrill Jim Holte, Elk Mound Women’s Committee Chair Rosie Lisowe, Chilton Young Farmer & Agriculturist Committee Chair Maria McGinnis, Portage Farm Bureau’s® Rural Route (ISSN 39940) (USPS 10821368), 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.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Rural Route is produced for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation

by Kennedy Communications, LTD., 9 Odana Court, Suite 200, Madison, WI 53711, 608.288.9000. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without written consent.

For advertising rates and information, please contact Annie Mares at 608.443.0956 or amares@kennedyc. com.

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wisconsin farm bureau federation

news

Check out Farm Bureau's New Website: wfbf.com The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation has revamped its website - www.wfbf.com - to provide its members and consumers with enhanced news and pertinent information. Want to know the weather, current market prices or what’s making news? It’s all on our front page.

“Our goal is to have a site that allows our members to get the most out of their Farm Bureau membership and to let others know what we are about,” said Casey Langan, Executive Director of Public Relations.

videos pertaining to Wisconsin agriculture and Farm Bureau newsmakers, as well as listen to our weekly radio program sent to ag radio broadcasters statewide.

The new website also features an in-depth section dedicated to providing updates on legislation and regulations impacting Wisconsin Farm Bureau members’ farms, businesses and homes.

Are you taking advantage of all the Farm Bureau benefits available? Make sure to click on the Benefits & Membership page to see what is available to you. Each of the 61 county Farm Bureaus also has its own page on our site.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau is a premier source of agricultural news. Our popular Ag Newswire is now online and provides daily updates and interactive links to what’s making state, national and international headlines when it comes to farming and food. Likewise our News Releases and Events pages provide up-to-date and accurate information on what the Wisconsin Farm Bureau is doing and what activities are being planned on the state and local levels.

There are farm facts, commodity group links, information on the Farm Bureau Foundation and so much more. Make www.wfbf.com one of your ‘favorites’ and stop by often.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau communicates with its members and the media through a variety of channels. Our website allows you to read online versions of our Annual Report, Policy Book and Rural Route; watch june | july 2011

www.wfbf.com

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Meet Board Member:

Rosie Lisowe

By Sheri Sutton

“Women are the glue that holds things together,” Rosie said. “They are critical to Farm Bureau because farm women carry a lot of power, more than we give ourselves credit for. We need to keep telling our story and be the best agricultural advocates that we can be.”

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ccording to Rosie Lisowe, in life there are four F’s: Faith, Family, Friends and Farm Bureau.

Rosie adopted the motto from her friend, Sherry Saylor, from the Arizona Farm Bureau. It is friends like Sherry and Farm Bureau involvement that have fostered Rosie’s growth as an advocate for agriculture.

While the advocacy might be a new role for Rosie, agriculture has always been a part of her life. She grew up on a 70-cow dairy farm in Johnsburg before marrying her high school sweetheart, Joe Lisowe, nearly 25 years ago. Today they farm in partnership with Joe’s father, three brothers, nephew, niece and their son at Lisowe Acres LLC in rural Calumet County.

“There is quite a web we have weaved,” Rosie remarked. “We have family working on our farm in almost every age range: 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and 80s.”

wisconsin farm bureau federation

news The extended Lisowe family merged their dairy herds five years ago and built a parlor on the family’s original farm near Chilton. They milk 550 cows three times daily and grow all of the herd’s feed (corn, alfalfa, soybeans, winter wheat and oats) and 50 acres of green beans sold to a nearby canning company on their 1,600 acre spread.

On the farm, Rosie usually helps her husband Joe when needed whether it be feeding cows, running to get parts, making sandwiches or hauling loads.

Off the farm, the certified nursing assistant and licensed cosmetologist uses her skills a few days each week at Calumet County Home Health Care and at a local nursing home where she styles, cuts and colors women’s hair. Rosie has been involved in the Parish council and Altar & Rosary Society at her local church. She also is the funeral chairperson for dinners where she cooks food and is there to comfort and help. Despite all of that, she says her main job is to be the advocate for the farm.

“It is critical for us to tell our story. We need to be advocates for our agriculture industry,” said Rosie, who participated in the Young Farmer Discussion Meet and won the Farm Bureau’s prestigious Achievement Award in 2001 with her husband.

Her passion for ag advocacy has also had a positive impact on the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Women’s Committee, which she has chaired for the past three years.

“Rosie really stepped up and led the effort to take the Women’s Program in a new direction,” recalls Dale Beaty, advisor of the WFBF Women’s Program.

Upon being elected chair of the nine-member state committee, Rosie approached the WFBF Board of Directors and asked, “What do you expect from us? There are nine women on the State Women’s Committee that want to be productive in Farm Bureau. Let’s talk about where we should be heading.”

Rosie and Joe have four children: Kimberly, 24, is getting married in June and has an associate’s degree from Marine Park in Fond du Lac where she works in student services; Luke, 22, attended UWMadison’s Farm and Industry Short Course and is now working full time on the family farm; Pamela, 20, studies education and English at UW-Whitewater; and Tracey, 19, studies business at UW-Fond du Lac. Pictured above are Joe, Rosie, Tracey, Ambrose (Joe’s father) and Luke.

Shown at left are the Lisowe’s milking parlor and freestall barn.

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After taking a good hard look at the program, Farm Bureau members decided it should focus on planning and carrying out projects and activities that educate youth and consumers about agriculture and promote positive messages about topics like farming, food safety and animal welfare. In order to reach consumers and to become stronger ag advocates, the Women’s Committee would also help female Farm Bureau members develop leadership skills.

A high profile change that’s been made was revamping the Women’s Leadership Seminar by partnering with Badgerland Financial and hosting the Wisconsin Ag Women’s Summit last March in Wisconsin Dells.

Nearly 400 women between the ages of 20 and 80 attended the Summit that promoted networking opportunities, ag awareness and health/wellness with exceptional speakers, workshops and entertainment. Next year’s event is already being planned for April 27-28.

Rosie points out that Farm Bureau’s Women’s Program helps with Food CheckOut Week (consumer outreach) each February and beef promotional events each July. Each spring they help coordinate the Ag in the Classroom program’s essay contest for Wisconsin fourth and fifth graders. They also encourage ag literacy through the Ag in the Classroom Book of the Year Award.

“Women are the glue that holds things together,” Rosie said. “They are critical to Farm Bureau because farm women carry a lot of power, more than we give ourselves credit for. We need to keep telling our story and be the best agricultural advocates that we can be.”

Her future goal is to be on the AFBF Women’s Committee. After her State Women’s Committee term is up in 2012, she wants to give back to the county and help build up the local women’s program.

It takes a special roof to hold up the sky.

We’ve built 67,000 so far.

We’ll make your hard-earned buck last a long, long time.

“Farm Bureau is a great avenue to step up and be involved,” Rosie said. “Farm Bureau is a voice for you. It’s support for you. It stands up for you. It is all these things wrapped together. The opportunities for you to get involved in this grassroots organization are endless.”

“Please check it out,” she urges other farm women. “You’ll be glad you did.”

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wisconsin farm bureau federation

Recall Fever Sweeps Wisconsin Epic Election Season Underway

T

he furor directed at both sides of the political aisle over changes to Wisconsin’s collective bargaining law has resulted in an unprecedented use of the state’s recall election process.

Farm Bureau’s Executive Director of Governmental Relations. “That prohibits those senators who were elected in 2010, those with odd-numbered districts, and all 99 state representatives from this wave of recalls.”

Republican senators facing recalls include: Sen. Rob Cowles (R-Green Bay) is being challenged by Nancy Nusbaum; Sen. Alberta Darling (R-River Falls) faces State Rep. Sandy Pasch (D-Whitefish Bay); Sen. Sheila Harsdorf (R-River Falls) is being A total of nine state senators (six Republicans challenged by Shelly Moore; Sen. Luther and three Democrats) will face recall elections Recall proponents collected the signatures of Olsen (R-Ripon) faces State Rep. Fred Clark this summer. The elections for each will be eligible voters in those senate districts. In each (D-Baraboo); Sen. Randy Hopper (R-Fond du held on July 12, except for those races that district the number of signatures required to Lac) is being challenged by Jessica King; Sen. require a primary election. In those cases, the spur a recall had to match at least 25 percent Dan Kapanke (R-La Crosse) faces State Rep. primary would be on July 12 and the general of the number of votes cast in the last Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse). election would be on August 9. election for governor (November of 2010).

Democratic senators facing recalls include: Efforts to recall seven other state senators “The nine senators facing challenges were eligible for recall this year were unsuccessful. Sen. Jim Holperin (D-Conover) faces Kim all elected to their posts in 2008. State law Simac; Sen. Robert Wirch (D-Pleasant Prairie) says that only elected office holders who As of press time the full slate of challengers is being challenged by Fred Ekornaas; Sen. have served at least one year of their term was still coming into focus. This much was Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay) faces State Rep. can be recalled,” explains Paul Zimmerman, known: John Nygren (R-Marinette) and Mary Scray.

Senate Districts up for Recalls

One for the record books It’s been said that Wisconsin voters are on the verge of making history. No matter the result, our nation has never seen a recall effort of this magnitude.

Organizers targeted all 16 eligible senators for recall for different reasons. Republicans were targeted for their votes in favor of a bill to restrict collective bargaining rights among public employees. Democrats were targeted for opposing the bill or their three-week stay in Illinois to delay a vote.

Wisconsin is one of just 18 states that allow for the recall of members of the state legislature. Of those 18, only five states have actually recalled elected officials. Before now there had been just 20 recalls since 1913, with just 13 of those successful in recalling a sitting lawmaker. Two of those took place in Wisconsin. Both Gary George (on corruption charges) and George Petak (for a controversial vote regarding a taxing district to build Miller Park) were recalled from the Milwaukee area.

Senate Districts up for Recalls 25

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Jim Holperin (D)

10 Sheila Harsdorf (R)

Dave Hansen (D) 1

30

23 Robert Cowles (R)

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31 19

24 14

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Luther Olsen (R) Randy Hopper (R) Dan Kapanke (R)

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26 27

11 15

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4 5 6 3 28 7

Alberta Darling (R)

21 22 Robert Wirch (D)

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State Budget

Comes Into Focus

Members of the Joint Committee on Finance approved a number of agriculturalrelated budget items on May 18. As the Rural Route goes to press, final debate on Wisconsin’s two-year state budget was also scheduled. Paul Zimmerman, Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Executive Director of Governmental Relations identified a number of issues that were likely to receive approval by the Legislature.

Working Lands Lawmakers made a number of changes to Wisconsin’s Working Lands Program.

When the program was enacted in the last state budget, land being rezoned from exclusive ag zoning became subject to a conversion fee. At a minimum, the fee would be three times the per acre value of the highest use value category in that municipality. These fees were collected by the local unit of government and forwarded to the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Local units 8

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of government could also impose their own conversion fees. The Joint Finance Committee concurred with Governor Scott Walker’s proposal to eliminate conversion fees.

Finance Committee members approved $374,000 annually to assist counties in developing farmland preservation plans as required by the Working Lands Program.

They also approved $27 million annually for per acre tax credits for eligible land owners.

The credits are available at a rate of:

• $5 per acre for land in agricultural

enterprise areas with an individual signed agreement but without zoning.

• $7.50 per acre for land in a farmland preservation zoning district.

• $10 per acre for land in a farmland preservation zoning district and an agricultural enterprise area with an individual signed agreement.

Finally, part of Working Lands was a Purchase of Agricultural Conservation Easement (PACE) program. DATCP was limited to pay no more that half of the cost of compensating landowners for placing deed restrictions on tracts of farmland.

Last year, a first round of applicants was selected to participate in the PACE program. DATCP’s portion of the 16 contracts totaling nearly 5,600 acres would be $5.2 million. The loans to make the purchase were to be paid for from conversion fees. With their elimination, the Joint Finance Committee approved using funds from the state’s Stewardship Fund on a one time basis to fulfill these 16 contracts.

Gov. Walker proposed eliminating the PACE program, however the Joint Finance Committee kept the program on the books but did not provide any funding for it in the 2011-2013 state budget. Furthermore, lawmakers directed DATCP to evaluate items such as the PACE program’s

wisconsin farm bureau federation

administration, funding, participation and the possibility of a local match. It also required an evaluation of options for a replacement program that would be less costly and more efficient for preserving farmland.

“WFBF supports planning and zoning to be the primary way to preserve farmland and intends to participate in the evaluation of the PACE program,” Zimmerman said.

New Meat Inspectors Ten new state meat inspectors were approved by the Joint Finance Committee. Five will be funded from state general purpose revenue, while federal matching funds will pay for the other five inspectors. WFBF supports these positions in order to allow local locker plants to market their products across state lines.

Fertilizer Research Currently when a ton of fertilizer is sold, a fee of $1.06 is collected by DATCP. Here’s how that $1.06 is then divided up:

• 30 cents goes to the Agriculture

Chemical Management Fund, which generally provides funding for DATCP staff to administer various regulatory programs for pesticides, herbicides, feed and seed.

• 44 cents goes to the Agricultural

Chemical Cleanup Program. The ACCP is utilized to provide cost sharing to facilities to assist in the cleanup of contaminated sites.

• 10 cents goes to various environmental

programs at the Department of Natural Resources.

• 10 cents goes to UW-Extension to support its nutrient and pest management program.

• 2 cents goes to DATCP’s weights and measures program.

• The final 10 cents goes to research

within the University of Wisconsin System for research on soil management, soil fertility, plant nutrition, and surface and groundwater problems that may be related to fertilizer usage. Last year this amounted to nearly $125,000.

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“WFBF supports planning and zoning to be the primary way to preserve farmland and intends to participate in the evaluation of the PACE program.”

- Paul Zimmerman, WFBF’s Executive Director of Governmental Relations

Going forward, the Joint Finance Committee stipulated that in the second year of the upcoming biennium an additional seven cents per ton will go to fertilizer research. The seven cents will be deducted from the 30 cents that goes to the Agriculture Chemical Management Fund.

WFBF supported increased fertilizer research funding as long as total fees were not raised.

Stewardship Program Current state law authorizes the DNR to expend $86 million annually from bonded funds (i.e. borrowed money) for the purchase of land for public use. If the money was not spent in any given year, it could be carried forward to be spent later.

Since its inception in 1992, the DNR has spent $483 million to acquire 497,094 acres of land (65,508 easement acres and 331,586 fee acquisition acres) under the Stewardship Program.

The Joint Finance Committee approved lowering the amount spent to $60 million annually and prohibited carrying forward unspent funds. WFBF supports reducing

Stewardship Program purchases.

Nonpoint Program Lawmakers provided DATCP with $7 million in bonding authority over the biennium for grants to counties to distribute to farmers as cost sharing to implement best management practices to address nonpoint source pollution. They also provided the DNR with $7 million in bonding for grants to municipalities to address both rural and urban nonpoint issues on a competitive grant basis.

“Bonding cannot be used for what we would call ‘soft’ practices such as nutrient management planning,” Zimmerman explained. “Bonding must be used for structural practices such as manure storage.”

DATCP was also provided with $5.3 million annually for nutrient management planning.

These funding levels are consistent with previous state budgets.

WFBF supports cost sharing for farmers to comply with the state’s nonpoint source pollution regulations. www.wfbf.com

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news Farm Bureau Members Named to Ag, Trade & Consumer Protection Board

Bruins Appointed to Natural Resources Board

W

isconsin Farm Bureau Federation President Bill Bruins is one of three new faces on the state Natural Resources Board.

Pam Garvey

Miranda Leis

F amiliar names to Farm Bureau

members will be serving on an influential ag panel. Last month Governor Scott Walker appointed Pam Garvey, Miranda Leis and Mark Schleitwiler, and reappointed Andy Diercks to the citizen board that oversees the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

“This important citizen board will be well served by a poultry farmer, potato and vegetable grower, dairy farmer and cheesemaker. The professional backgrounds of these four fine individuals mirror the diversity that exists in Wisconsin agriculture,” said Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Bill Bruins.

“In addition to production and processing expertise, each also brings a wealth of marketing experience.

Their perspectives will be invaluable as Wisconsin works to grow its $59 billion agricultural economy,” Bruins added.

Pam Garvey of Centuria owns and operates a 750-acre poultry farm with her husband, Mike. The Polk County Farm Bureau member has served as chair of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s political action committee, the Volunteers for Agriculture, and was the first female chair of the state Young Farmer Committee in 2004.

She also chaired WFBF’s Policy Development Committee from 200610

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Mark Schleitwiler

Andy Diercks

08. Garvey has a bachelor’s degree in food science and technology, with a minor in business.

Miranda Leis of La Farge is a project manager for CROPP Cooperative/ Organic Valley, and a director of the Monroe County Farm Bureau.

She and her husband, Corey, operate a dairy farm with his family. She currently serves on WFBF’s Policy Development Committee. She was the second female chair of what became known as the state Young Farmer and Agriculturist Committee. She received her degree in animal science with an emphasis in dairy production and nutrition.

Mark Schleitwiler of Green Bay is Vice President of Operations for BelGioioso Cheese, Inc. He serves on the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association and Board of Directors.

Andy Diercks of Coloma is a fourth generation potato and vegetable grower and current Vice President at Coloma Farms, Inc. He was first appointed to the board in 2001 and has served as its chairman since 2009.

Diercks, Leis and Schleitwiler were all appointed to six-year terms.

Garvey was appointed to fill the two years remaining in a seat that Cynthia Brown of Menomonie recently stepped down from. Leis and Schleitwiler replace Brian Rude of Coon Valley and Mike Krutza of Wausau, whose terms expired.

“When you consider that farmers own over 15 million acres of land, it’s crucial that agriculture has a seat at the table when decisions are made concerning our state’s landscape and natural resources,” said Bruins, who has served as the WFBF President since 2003.

Bruins joins Greg Kazmierski, Wisconsin Hunters’ Rights Coalition co-founder, and Shawano businessman Terry Hilgenberg as Governor Scott Walker’s first appointees to the seven-member board that sets policy for the Department of Natural Resources. Each was appointed to a six-year term.

“I want to see Wisconsin strike the right balance between managing resources and providing food production for a hungry world,” said Bruins. “Our state needs to continue to grow its agricultural economy, which generates over $59 billion and employs 10 percent of our workforce.”

Bruins, who owns and operates Homeland Dairy with his two sons in rural Fond du Lac County, said it’s important for agriculture to be involved in managing the state’s natural resources.

“As private landowners we’re concerned about water quality and quantity, as well as wildlife management issues,” Bruins said. “It’s critical that agriculture and the conservation community work together to promote their respective industries, while utilizing our state’s natural resources wisely.”

Bruins also serves on the Waupun Area Board of Education and is a member of the UW-Madison’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Board of Visitors.

The new appointees had their first Natural Resources Board meeting May 24-25 in Madison. They succeed Jonathan Ela, a conservationist and retired Sierra Club official; Gary Rohde, former Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary; and John Welter, an Eau Claire attorney.

Their terms expired on May 1.

wisconsin farm bureau federation

Capitol Watch The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation continues to monitor the many pieces of legislation circulating through our State Legislature, outside of the budget-writing process. This is a snapshot of the four bills that WFBF supports. For other current information on bills pertinent to Wisconsin agriculture check out our website at www.wfbf.com and click on ‘Legislation & Regulations.’

Exclusion of Capital Gains Taxes

Restrictions on DNR Board

Assembly Bill 6 & Senate Bill 10

Assembly Bill 99 & Senate Bill 75

These bills propose to reverse the changes made to the taxation of capital gains in the 2009-11 state budget. It would repeal the exclusion of 60 percent capital gains tax for farm assets held for one year or from the sale of assets from a decedent, and restore the exclusion for capital gains to 60 percent within the taxable year 2012 for all capital gains taxes. In taxable year 2013, the capital gains tax would increase to 80 percent and then to 100 percent for taxable year 2014 and beyond.

This legislation aims to prohibit the Department of Natural Resources from requiring the “Earn-a-Buck” program. It also restricts the DNR’s authority to establish open seasons for hunting deer with firearms.

The general restriction is to prohibit a deer firearm season that begins before the Saturday immediately preceding the fourth Thursday in November (early season) but does not apply if the DNR wishes to create special season open to certain groups.

Examples of which include hunters under 16 years of age, a hunt to control the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease or an early antlerless deer season.

Wind Energy System Rule

Assembly Bill 72 & Senate Bill 50 These bills ask for a repeal of state standards for wind energy system rules that regulated set backs from property lines, visual appearance and audio levels, among other things. These state standards were part of a bill passed during the 2009-10 legislative session. Lawmakers recently suspended those state standards from taking effect, which means for the time being, rule making on wind energy systems and their enforcement are decided by local governments (political subdivisions). AB 72 and SB 50 would officially defer the rules regarding wind energy system issues to local units of government until a new set of state standards is created. Upon passage of this legislation, the Public Service Commission would be required to create a revised set of state standards for wind energy system rules regarding set backs, visual appearance, audio levels and other requirements as well as rules regarding enforcement of these wind energy systems by local political subdivisions within six months.

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DNR Board Membership Requirements

Assembly Bill 104 This bill aims to restructure the requirements for the citizens who make up the Natural Resources Board. It proposes to require at least one member to have an agricultural background. It also requests that, beginning in 2017, at least three members of the board have held hunting, fishing or trapping licenses in at least seven of the 10 years before the year of nomination to the board.

Exemptions include serving in active duty in the military during that 10 year period before nomination to the board. www.wfbf.com

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Institute Class Takes Leadership Skills to Capitol Hill

With a year of leadership training under their belts, 13 members of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s fourth Institute class traveled to our nation’s capitol April 5-8. Not only did they get to experience the sights and sounds of Washington D.C. with the WFBF Board of Directors, but they also made sure Wisconsin’s Congressional Delegation knew where they stood on important agricultural issues.

Here’s what the Institute graduates had to say about their capstone trip: “The WFBF Leadership Institute Capstone trip to Washington D.C. was an amazing end to an amazing program. I really felt that I got a chance to know the board members as well as learn more about major issues that are impacting the agriculture industry. It was a little bittersweet to leave Washington D.C. as it was our official last ‘outing’ as Institute Class IV. I can’t believe how much I have grown personally and professionally in such a short time.”

Beth Porior, Marathon County Farm Bureau

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“The D.C. trip with the Board of Directors was truly a comprehensive and memorable capstone to our entire year-long leadership training. I especially appreciate the efforts of Dale Beaty for organizing the oncein-a-lifetime chance for me to take part in the laying of the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider at Arlington National Cemetery.”

Leah Viesselmann, Ozaukee County Farm Bureau

“The trip with my Institute cohorts was phenomenal. A group of professionals who share an interest in production agriculture provided interesting traveling comrades. The networking, insights and humor of the group over the past year has expanded my view of agriculture in Wisconsin, refreshed my interest in state and federal ag policies, and definitely created some new friendships for me.”

“Going to our nation’s capitol and communicating with our legislators helped me realize that Farm Bureau is a very well respected organization and our voice can make a difference in farm policy. I believe every American should see the memorials to our great leaders, military veterans and fallen heroes.”

Don Meyer, Sauk County Farm Bureau

Steve Towns, Rock County Farm Bureau

wisconsin farm bureau federation

“The trip was the opportunity for us to use all the skills and confidence that we gained throughout the year during our Institute class training. I have learned so much this past year and encourage everyone to get involved.”

Wayne Steingraber, Waupaca County Farm Bureau

“Not until you actually engage in the democratic process will you understand the beauty and magnitude of Washington D.C.” Rick Althaus, Lafayette County Farm Bureau

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“Our trip was the culmination of over a year of great experiences and learning with the WFBF Institute class. Making a visit to Capitol Hill is very empowering and always leaves me with the feeling that in some small way I’ve been able to make a difference in the world.”

Joanne Dalton, Columbia County Farm Bureau

“The Institute sessions have all been incredible learning experiences, and this D.C. trip was no exception. We met with AFBF leaders and our state representatives and received firsthand experience promoting agriculture through government.”

Amanda Schaller, Polk County Farm Bureau

“I was impressed how Senator Johnson sat down with us, listened to us and then asked our opinion on different topics he thought affected us. I was glad he made the time to meet with us and listen to our concerns.”

“Being in Washington D.C. with the Farm Bureau Institute Class was the experience of a lifetime.

During this week we had a chance to remember the values that built our nation, which are also the values that make us a great leader. It was a great way to end the class and the perfect sendoff for us to become more active within Farm Bureau and our community.”

Nicole Adrian, Grant County Farm Bureau

Julie Martin, Dodge County Farm Bureau www.wfbf.com

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news Meet Farm Bureau Members:

Derek and Charisse Orth

By Casey Langan

The Orths are shown with herd favorite, Jordan, a six-year-old cow that has been classified as an Excellent 92. When not tending to business on the farm, Derek is the chair of the Grant County Young Farmer and Agriculturist Committee and is trained as a professional hoof trimmer. Charisse is a student at UW-Platteville and an avid hunter.

Youthful, optimistic and ambitious: Derek and Charisse Orth could be the poster couple for the Wisconsin dairy industry’s future.

A

mong the newlyweds’ goals is to build a premier herd of Jersey cows on their family’s farm in the scenic hills of Grant County.

“We try to focus on the cows,” said Derek, who farms with his parents, Randy and Laura Orth, on the farm they bought between Fennimore and Lancaster in 1993.

The family was milking 60 cows when Derek graduated from Fennimore High School in 2004.

Looking for something different in the way of climate and topography, Derek spent the next year in Logan, Utah where he worked with a 90-cow Jersey herd and obtained a certificate in dairy herdsmanship from Utah State University. The experience confirmed what he wanted to do with his life.

Derek came back to the farm in 2005; the Orths purchased more Jerseys and built a swing-12 parlor in 2008. Today they milk 250 cows and farm nearly 400 acres of corn and alfalfa.

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A passion for agriculture was also passed on to Derek’s three sisters. Susan is a Farm Bureau member who works for World Dairy Expo in Madison. Dana is a recent Kansas State University graduate who is considering agricultural work with the Peace Corps. Julie is wrapping up her year as a state FFA officer.

The cow families bred at Orthridge Jerseys are a big part of the Orths’ long-term success. Each of the hundreds of cows and their offspring are given a name, which requires some creativity.

‘Demo-P’ is a name that will have historical significance for the farm. It’s the name of their first bull whose semen will now be sold to other cattle breeders by Genex.

“It was a great feeling to see his name and genomic data in the Genex catalog,” Derek said.

“I remember breeding that cow, and now that bull calf ’s semen will be sold worldwide to influence other herds. It’s an unreal feeling.”

wisconsin farm bureau federation

Derek on the Record…

With an ability to explain genomics in easily understandable terms it’s clear that the reproductive side of dairy farming is something he clearly enjoys. In the last year he’s worked with four different artificial insemination companies on selecting the right matings and selling his best bull calves between nine months and one year old.

With the use of sexed semen the herd has produced 200 heifer calves last year. While it has created some growing pains, mainly over where to house all of them, it has also allowed the Orths to improve their herd by culling some of the poor producers earlier than normal.

When the Orths expanded their herd it meant bringing on employees. They communicate with their two full-time and eight part-time employees at team meetings. The only drawback Derek sees to having all of the farm’s employees native to the local area is they all want to attend the same events.

Why do you like Jerseys so much?

“If I had to use just one word, I’d say because they are efficient.”

Expand on that…

“They have great overall health, and have both great reproductive and feed efficiency. Their black hooves make for harder and healthier feet, and their milk is high in components.”

What about their temperament?

“They are arrogant and friendly too. Each has their own personality.”

What’s your favorite part of your job?

“I like the reproduction side of dairy farming. Getting to see the entire process from the straw to a baby calf, that is what drives me.”

These days his main partner on the farm and off is his wife, Charisse, who he married last October. The couple first met as 4-H members through Derek’s sister Julie. She grew up in the nearby village of Stitzer.

What would you be doing if you weren’t a farmer?

“I’d probably be a reproductive specialist for an A.I. (cattle breeding) company…or a math teacher.”

“It’s weird to think I didn’t do anything with cattle just seven years ago,” Charisse said.

You were a member of Farm Bureau’s second Institute class.

What did you get from the experience?

“While going through the class we were also going through our expansion on the farm. I think it helped me with time and professional management. Personally, I’ve been more apt to do things like get involved with and host the Grant County Night on the Farm, a social gathering and farm tour for current and potential Farm Bureau members.”

It was then that she was asked if she wanted to show a dairy calf by another friend with a farm. Today, when not helping at the farm, she’s a junior at UW-Platteville, studying ag business and animal science, with an emphasis in dairy, marketing and communications.

“This is my life now,” she said brimming with an excitement for dairying that she shares with Derek.

What’s your favorite Farm Bureau event?

“The Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting. I like the social aspect of seeing other members, the good speakers and the entertainment.”

What are your goals for the farm?

“I’d like to build a transition barn for cows that have recently calved and buy another farm to consolidate our heifer facilities and have more acreage. I’d like to see more of our bulls in the A.I. industry. I’d like to conduct more embryo transfers on our herd, and get more involved in the Jersey breed industry. We want to be recognized as a premier herd.”

What are your personal goals?

“Personally, we’d like to start a family. We’ll be moving shortly to a home we are remodeling in Stitzer. As for Farm Bureau, I’d like to win the YFA Achievement Award at some point.”

About 15 cows and heifers at Orthridge Jerseys came to the farm from a partnership with Berry College in Georgia. Student interns work on the farm each summer.

june | july 2011

What’s the key to your optimism?

“The number one thing is to surround yourself with positive people. Have a good team. On a dairy farm, that includes your banker, veterinarian and nutritionist.” www.wfbf.com

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news

Forecasting Grain Prices in the Coming Year

By: Clayton Pope AgriVisor, LLC Manager cpope@agrivisor.com

T

he first official USDA Supply and Demand report for the 2010-2011 crop year was released on Wednesday, May 11.

As farmers quickly make progress on this year’s crop planting, attention is shifting to the challenge of forecasting prices for the upcoming year. Never easy, this year strikes us as presenting one of the more challenging scenarios for doing so, for numerous reasons.

The relatively tight U.S. supply and demand situation is the primary reason price forecasting is more difficult than usual. Ending stocks figures are generally the most critical component of any supply and demand estimate, and when they are on the smaller end of the historical spectrum, which continues to be the case, the potential price volatility presented by even relatively minor changes in production estimates is heightened. Add to this the still precarious state of the U.S. and world economies, as well as extreme legislative and political uncertainty, and it becomes very clear that it is dangerous to assume anything regarding price expectations or even risk management in general.

Fundamental picture The highlights of the May 11 USDA Supply and Demand report for corn included higher than expected ending stocks estimates for both old crop and new crop.

The old crop carryover was increased to 730 million bushels, from last month’s 675. This increase was due to a net reduction in various demand category estimates. These changes caught the trade off guard considering that the pre-report average estimate was actually looking for a small decrease in ending stocks, and offer some degree of confirmation that some old crop rationing of demand due to high corn prices has in fact occurred.

Note: This article has been written based on the data released in the May 11 USDA Supply and Demand report. This is a particularly important report because it is the first “official” statement with respect to the new crop data, which is what prompted this article.

An update was released on June 9, but the June report is normally a relatively flat report because even though crop conditions have undoubtedly changed over that period of time, such changes aren’t normally reflected until the July report unless rather extraordinary in scope.

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As for new crop, this first official estimate pegged ending stocks at 900 million bushels, higher than the average trade guess of 811.

This number was based on a supply estimate that, as usual for this report, used the 92.2 million planted acreage figure reported in the March 31 Prospective Plantings report (four million acres over the year ago figure). Interestingly, the yield estimate used was 158.7 bushels per acre, three bushels per acre less than the trend line yield calculation normally used in this report. The USDA explained that this adjustment was made to reflect the (late) planting pace to date. The total production estimate was estimated at 13.5 billion bushels, which would be a record corn production year. The fact that the carryover was reported at a larger than expected 900 million bushels, in spite of the reduction in yield which is an arguably premature adjustment, adds to the bearish implications from this report, but there is little doubt that future growing weather is now more important than ever.

wisconsin farm bureau federation

Looking at developments since the report, the extremely rapid planting that has occurred on the heels of a very slow start has done much to defuse some of the concern that was building. However, the lateness of planting in several key production states such as Indiana, Ohio, and North Dakota remains a concern to the market because of the possible yield implications that late planting brings.

Taking a brief look at world corn carryover estimates, the old crop carryover was reduced slightly to 122.2 million tons from 122.4 in the April report. However, the new crop estimate climbed to 129.1, a significant jump of 5.6 percent, which clearly implies a little more breathing room, but from a longer term perspective is still relatively snug (see chart).

Turning to soybeans, the old crop carryover was increased slightly more than expected to 170 million bushels, compared to 151 in April. This change was due entirely to a decrease in expected export demand. As for new crop, the first official carryover estimate was 160, and considering that this figure is slightly smaller than the (revised) old crop figure of 170, as well as slightly smaller than pre-report expectations, we consider it mildly friendly. The USDA chose to use the “trend line” yield estimate of 43.4 bushels per acre, which is extremely close to last year’s 43.5. It should be noted that overall demand for U.S. soybeans is expected to be slightly lower than the current year, which is also the case for both corn and wheat projections, not exactly the direction we would like to see the demand trend moving. cont. on page 18

Fronts of Uncertainty There are three primary “fronts of uncertainty” that are key in the price discovery process.

First: the continually unfolding fundamental picture. This includes both supply considerations (most notably planting progress and acreage in the short term) and demand factors (principally the main categories of feed, ethanol, exports, and crush).

Second: general economic considerations, also known as macro-economic factors, or outside markets. These consist primarily of dollar exchange values, rates of inflation, and key commodity prices, particularly crude oil. Extremely important in this area is not only the current level and relation of the items mentioned, but the quite intangible and always changing collective opinion regarding future expectations of these items. In other words, it’s never enough to know the current relationships among these items—the expectations of future changes and the timing and rate of arrival of those changes is oftentimes even more important.

Third: legislative and political uncertainties. Political rhetoric and posturing for the 2012 presidential race is already running high, Congress is in full battle mode, and major legislative changes are looming on the horizon. These include the proposed Dodd-Frank bill that is expected to usher in unprecedented financial market regulation, and work on crafting a new Farm Bill is already eliciting comments from our President and heavy expectations of lowered subsidy benefits.

As you look ahead to what prices may do this year, keep these three factors in mind.

june | july 2011

www.wfbf.com

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news In the world picture, old crop bean carryover was increased to 63.8 million tons, compared to 60.9 in April, yet new crop world carryover was estimated at a smaller 61.8 million tons, still a very large number historically speaking.

Conclusion Historically, the changes in the fundamentals “front of uncertainty” provide the greatest influence on grain prices, although the other two, macro-economic factors and politics, will without a doubt be extremely important this year as well (see sidebar on page 17).

This is particularly true when you consider the unprecedented growth in “managed money” and the effect that this sector has on grain prices, and the fact that the degree of impact that this managed money sector can have is very much dependent on overall economic and political changes.

So, as with any year, what Mother Nature has in store for grain production will be the critical factor affecting prices. However, as mentioned in the beginning of this article, because of the still tight ending stocks projections, market reactions to weather changes are likely to be more extreme than usual, and changes in the other key factors mentioned will only tend to add to this volatility.

Let’s be honest… you don’t have time to sit at the local coffee shop talking to your farm neighbors about the weather like your grandpa did.

In today’s world operations are bigger and productivity is higher. And you’re busy! cropNAtion is the place for busy, progressive farmers and ranchers like you. It’s the mobile coffee shop of the 21st century. The topics are the same: pests and diseases, markets, weather, and pictures of your crops. The difference? The conversation comes to you, whether you’re in the tractor cab, the milking parlor, or in the shed waiting out a big rain.

Coming this summer.

AgriVisor, LLC, is a joint venture between GROWMARK, Inc., and Illinois Farm Bureau and offers grain and livestock marketing analysis. AgriVisor also offers brokerage services, Crossover Solutions™, and premium advisory services. AgriVisor services are provided through participating grain elevators.

GROWMARK is a regional cooperative providing agriculture-related products and services, as well as grain marketing in 31 states and Ontario, Canada. GROWMARK owns the FS trademark, which is used by affiliated member cooperatives. The FS brand represents knowledgeable, experienced professionals acting with integrity and dedication to serve more than 100,000 customers. More information is available at www.growmark.com.

Your connection to a growing world

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wisconsin farm bureau federation

The Leopold Conservation Award recognizes landowners who exemplify the land ethic of Aldo Leopold - translating their love for the land into responsible stewardship and management. The Wisconsin recipient for 2012 receives an Aldo Leopold crystal and $10,000.

2012

Call for Applications

If you, or someone you know, is a Wisconsin farmer engaged in and committed to land management practices that increase conservation, we invite your application for the Leopold Conservation Award.

Nomination deadline: August 12, 2011 To download an Application Form, visit:

www.leopoldconservationaward.org

Presented by Sand County Foundation in partnership with Wisconsin Farm Bureau

Photo Š Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Inc.

Federation

The Leopold Conservation Award in Wisconsin is sponsored by the Lynde and Harry Bradley

Foundation, American Transmission Company, and Rural Mutual Insurance

Wisconsin

Farm Bureau

member benefit guide F E D E R A T I O N

AAA

Budget Truck Rental

Farm Bureau members save 20% on AAA membership and the enrollment fee to join AAA is waived. Farm Bureau members who already belong to AAA can receive the discount on their next renewal. In both instances, call 877.731.3315 and be prepared to give them the group code “WI07.”

Farm Bureau members receive a 15% discount on Budget Truck rentals.

To use the discount call 800.566.8422 or visit www.budgettruck.com/wfbf.

Use the Wisconsin Farm Bureau account number 56000133165 to get your 15% discount.

Accidental Death Policy Members receive $1,500 in accidental death insurance for themselves and their spouse, and $500 for minors. The policy increases in value for consecutive years of membership up to $3,500. The policy covers any accident, except those on a public road or highway occurring or arising out of occupancy or use of a vehicle required to be licensed under state laws.

Choice Hotels Members save an average of 20% at participating Choice Brand Hotels.

Call 800.258.2847 to make the required advance reservation. Request Wisconsin Farm Bureau member rate using ID# 0058419.

AgriPlan Medical Reimbursement Program The Wisconsin Farm Bureau has teamed up with TASC (Total Administrative Services Corporation) to bring you the AgriPlan Medical Reimbursement Program. TASC is located in Wisconsin. The AgriPlan is based on Section 105 of the IRS code written in 1954, and can allow farmers and other self-employed individuals to deduct 100% of their family’s medical expenses through their farm or business. AgriPlan clients save an average of $3000 in taxes per year. Deductible expenses include health, dental, and vision insurance premiums, qualified long term care insurance premiums, as well as any non-insured medical expenses. Farm Bureau members will receive a $10 discount off of the already low cost of the plan.

To learn more about the AgriPlan and/or sign up, simply click on the AgriPlan image or call one of TASC’s friendly AgriPlan specialists at 888.595.2261. www.tasconline.com

AVIS-Budget Car Rental With 4,800 locations in over 140 countries, there’s always an Avis nearby to help you with your car rental needs.

And whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, your membership in the Wisconsin Farm Bureau® entitles you to special discounts. For instance, you can save 5%-25% on Avis’ daily and weekly rates. To receive these discounted rates, all you need to do is use your Avis Worldwide Discount number (WISCONSIN A298849), phone number 800.331.1212 or Budget discount number (Y775749), phone number 800.527.0700.

Farm Bureau Bank Take advantage of Farm Bureau Bank’s FDICinsured checking and savings accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, credit cards and vehicle and home loans. To get started, call 800.492.FARM (3276), or look online at www.farmbureaubank.com.

FB Apparel FB Apparel offers you more than 700 apparel items to choose from, including products from your favorite brands like Cutter & Buck, Columbia, GEAR for Sports, and Dickies, to name a few. Looking for an Award or Special Gift?

With the Gift and Awards Research Tool, you are able to access thousands of gift and award ideas quickly. Check out “Agriculture Friendly” products by clicking on “Products Made from Renewable Resources.” Need that personal touch? Contact your FBApparel representative at 866.859.7005.

FS-Growmark Patronage Farm Bureau members who are patrons of their local FS cooperative are eligible to receive patronage dividends when patronage is paid.

www.avis.com, www.budget.com

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wisconsin farm bureau federation

W

Fa Grainger Grainger Industrial Supply is the nation’s leading maintenance, repair and operational supplies distributor. Receive a 10% discount on all Grainger catalog items. For a free catalog call 608.221.3861. When ordering use the Farm Bureau account # 855922019 and a credit card.

Members with an existing account who would like to take advantage of the 10% discount can call 1.800.261.3276 to have their account coded to receive the discount. Provide name, membership number, the company name, billing address, phone number, and the Grainger account number.

Grainger now has a toll free order number for Farm Bureau members only.

LANDS END BUSINESS OUTFITTERS Save 10% on product and logo fees when using the preferred Farm Bureau phone number and website to place orders. To purchase items call 800.916.2255 or online at http://ces.landsend.com/WIFB. This discount does not apply to general Lands End merchandise only products purchased through Business Outfitters division.

Rural Mutual Insurance Insurance coverage available exclusively to members includes: auto, crop/ hail, farm liability and health. Rural also provides a wide array of insurance and financial products for businesses and families including business auto, farm / commercial / and business insurance. Refer to the Yellow Pages or go online at www.ruralins.com to find your nearest Rural agent.

data). The ScriptSave card is accepted at thousands of independent and chain pharmacies nationwide. The card also offers savings on vision care, hearing care, and diabetes care and supplies.

You can sign-up by calling ScriptSave directly at 800.700.3957. Mention Group # 703A to identify yourself as a Wisconsin Farm Bureau member.

DISCOUNT ONLY - NOT INSURANCE. This program is not an insurance policy and does not provide insurance coverage. Discounts are available exclusively through participating pharmacies.

The Country Today Newspaper Here’s a way to save money, get informed on ag issues, AND help support a popular Farm Bureau program. Members of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau now receive $7.50 off a yearly subscription (and $15 off a two-year subscription) to The Country Today newspaper. The folks at The Country Today will then give a $5 donation to the Ag in the Classroom program, which helps educate Wisconsin youth about farming and food production. To start a new subscription or extend a renewal, call 888.833.9268, and prepare to give your Farm Bureau membership number. If you would like a free copy of the newspaper to check out first, just visit www.thecountrytoday.com and request a free sample. Farm Bureau members can now save up to 28 percent by reading the newspaper that has cared about rural life in the Midwest since 1977, and support the Ag in the Classroom program in the process.

Wyndham Hotel Group ScriptSave® Prescription Drug Savings Card ScriptSave® is a prescription drug savings card available to all Wisconsin Farm Bureau members. The card is available to you at NO COST as an added feature of your membership. Your entire household can use the card for instant savings that average over 22% with potential savings up to 50% on brand name and generic medications (based on national program savings

june | july 2011

Members save 20% off the best available rate at more than 5,000 participating locations throughout North America. Mention Farm Bureau ID# 62775 when making your reservations. Call 877.670.7088 to make a reservation with these hotel chains: Days Inn®, Howard Johnson®, Baymont Inn and Suites®, Microtel®, Knights Inn®, Ramada®, Travelodge®, Hawthorn Suites®, Wyndham Hotels®, Wingate Inns® and Super 8 Motels®.

www.wfbf.com

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opinion

‘I Get Farmers’

A guest column from DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp

I

view farmers as fiercely independent business owners dedicated to their high quality products, slow to take vacations yet quick with a disarming joke or self-deprecating one-liner.

I get farmers.

True, I’ve never plowed a field or manned the early milking shift, but I have worked my family’s home-building and truck businesses. I understand the dedication of the private business owner because I am one. I understand how government regulations affect a private business because it affected mine.

This is why I wanted a chance to streamline regulations while simultaneously upholding strict environmental standards in order to help Wisconsin’s private sector thrive in this changing economy.

My private business experience with government is the foundation of my work as secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, where improving customer service to strengthen the economy is my top priority.

When I talk about Wisconsin’s economy, that conversation starts with the state’s largest industry - agriculture. About one of every ten state citizens works at a job related to this $60 billion industry which is closely tied to what we do at the DNR.

Farmers’ help key to trout revival, manure management Some of you may remember me as a state senator representing the Racine area from 2002 to 2006. I also served on the Natural Resources Board at the request of former Governor Tommy Thompson from 1998 to 2000. I became DNR Secretary and joined the cabinet of Governor Scott Walker in January.

Let’s get down to a few issues.

First, thanks to Wisconsin farmers for helping increase the populations of our brook and brown trout. A recent University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point study shows the fish are up. Biologists give much credit to improved land management from farmers using native plant riparian buffers, reduced tilling, scientific fertilizer management,

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rotational grazing and more. The benefits of your stewardship are swimming in healthy streams and waterways.

We’re asking for more.

Please continue your manure management efforts by not spreading on frozen, snow-covered fields when winter thaws are predicted.

That way, we may avoid possible fish kills from manure runoff.

By now, you may be asking, what is the DNR doing for me? Fair question; and the answer involves working together.

Landowners, regulations and wildlife management: You as private landowners are major partners in wildlife management. Nearly 84 percent of Wisconsin is privately-owned. Our natural resources, wildlife and economy depend upon your land practices. We must work together to increase ag land values to keep your farms intact while preserving wildlife habitats and helping your industry.

Nonpoint pollution/phosphorus, water: The 2011 law changes to control phosphorus and run-off pollution are delayed for two years.

Phosphorus remains the top pollutant which causes the blue green algae blooms that impact human and animal health – and the DNR is dedicated to controlling nonpoint pollution as it is an economic issue.

This delay gives you and DNR time to better plan for the change.

Wolves and Deer: We are working with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to officially delist wolves. If all goes well, producers by 2012 will be able to protect livestock from wolves. Wolves have a place, but not on farms.

Deer hunting seasons and regulations must encourage participation yet meet with landowner approval. The DNR will work with hunters and landowners to develop acceptable hunting regulations, population goals and management strategies, including crop damage abatement and reimbursement. The Farm Bureau will be an invited, valued stakeholder as we work together to manage our state wild animal.

In closing, please visit our DNR website, www.dnr.wi.gov, and contact me with questions and ideas, dnrsecretary@wisconsin.gov.

About that farmer sense of humor, I understand the value of a good laugh in the most trying situations. Yes, I do laugh at blonde jokes – especially the ones I repeat.

wisconsin farm bureau federation

Growing an Idea

Guest Column from Stewart Truelsen

T

his year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the nation’s first county Farm Bureau in Broome County, New York Farm Bureau and the Cooperative Extension Service grew side-by-side in the early years of the last century. Along with farm mechanization and rural electrification, they had a transformational effect on American agriculture.

Membership in Farm Bureau gave farmers and ranchers an organized voice in the development of agriculture and rural America. The land grant universities, through Cooperative Extension, provided the scientific knowledge and training necessary for production agriculture.

Farm Bureau is a true grassroots organization. It began at the county level in 1911; state Farm Bureaus were organized a little later, and they got together in Chicago in 1919 to form the American Farm Bureau Federation. Today there are more than 6 million Farm Bureau member families nationwide.

But in 1911 Farm Bureau was just a seed, a germ of an idea. There is no founding father of the Farm Bureau, but there are several men important to its start, including President Theodore Roosevelt.

The conservationist president took a keen interest in the welfare of rural America. He was concerned that farm life was not appealing in comparison to urban living. Roosevelt appointed a country life commission to investigate the matter in 1908.

The commission was headed by Liberty Hyde Bailey, dean of the New York State College of Agriculture at Cornell. One of the commission’s findings was that farmers needed unity and a voluntary organization to tackle their problems.

Business leaders in Binghamton, N.Y., thought they knew of a way to help. Byers Gitchell, secretary of the chamber of commerce, proposed a farm department within the chamber. Since all the other departments were called bureaus this one would become the “Farm Bureau.” A few progressive farmers liked the idea and took out memberships in the chamber.

It is no surprise that business leaders were concerned about agricultural prosperity; the farm community was their best customer. Business

june | july 2011

In 1911 Farm Bureau was just a seed, a germ of an idea.

owners also worried that a decline in the farm population would lead to food shortages and drive up prices.

In 1911, John Barron was employed as an agent for the first Farm Bureau. Barron was described as an “expert agriculturalist” who could answer questions about farm management, soil fertility, dairy production and other topics.

In a flyer distributed throughout the county, Barron promised to speak to groups of farmers and carry on agricultural experiments and demonstration work. In short order, James Quinn became the first county Farm Bureau president and other farmers took up positions in the organization.

Broome County Farm Bureau broke ties with the chamber of commerce a few years later, and it was the Smith-Lever Act in 1914 establishing the Cooperative Extension Service that gave Farm Bureau great impetus.

The idea for farm improvement became a Farm Bureau movement all over the country, greatly aided by the automobile which made member recruitment a lot easier.

Early Farm Bureau leaders would pick a day and drive farm to farm rounding up members.

The idea that became a movement then became a powerful organization of farmers and ranchers, helping them with marketing, insurance and lobbying lawmakers on their behalf.

Stewart Truelsen is a regular contributor to the Focus on Agriculture series and is author of a new book marking the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 90th anniversary, Forward Farm Bureau.

www.wfbf.com

23

opinion

Trail Blazers and Trilogies A message from WFBF President Bill Bruins

T

he two guest columns that appear in this Rural Route remind me how far we’ve come and yet how far we have to go.

Stewart Truelsen’s “Growing an Idea” column reminds us of the 100th anniversary of the first county Farm Bureau in Broome County, New York. Those first Farm Bureau pioneers recognized the need for farmers to have a strong and unified voice. Yet I wonder if they ever could have imagined the force that their organization would become in every state of our nation.

At about the same time as Farm Bureau took form, land grant universities and the Cooperative Extension system were cutting their teeth too. In the time since, each have played pivotal roles in the development of Wisconsin agriculture through world-class research and education. Just as each of us benefit from the bounty produced on Wisconsin’s landscape, we also benefit from the triangular synergy that exists between Farm Bureau, UW-Extension and our land grant university.

Here in Wisconsin, there was a time when our land grant university in Madison was almost entirely funded and controlled by

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the state and federal governments. Today, less than 20 percent of its budget comes from state coffers. To be both successful and efficient, UW-Madison greatly needs increased flexibility in how it operates.

Few disagree that change is needed; the debate is over how to make it happen. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau also wants to see more flexibility and efficiency, but not at the expense of the strength of UW-Extension, UW-Madison’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, or UW-Madison’s land grant status. The trilogy of CALS, UW-Extension and Farm Bureau must stay intact.

This issue wouldn’t be of major concern if Wisconsin wasn’t home to rich natural resources and productive farmland; which brings us to the other guest column from the new Department of Natural Resources Secretary, Cathy Stepp. Wise use of these resources has always been vital to our state’s environmental and economic health.

Secretary Stepp gets that. She also “gets farmers” and their independent nature.

This should certainly be music to our ears.

So should her message of streamlining regulations in a way that will protect our natural resources without getting in the way

“Thanks to the work of UWMadison and UW-Extension, Wisconsin farmers can protect the environmental AND feed consumers from Shawano to Shanghai.” of helping feed an ever-hungry world. We’ll only do that by expanding our production capabilities through research and education and by creating a regulatory climate that doesn’t hinder but promotes growth.

Thanks to the work of UW-Madison and UW-Extension, Wisconsin farmers can protect the environmental AND feed consumers from Shawano to Shanghai.

I think that would have made those trail blazers from Broome County proud.

wisconsin farm bureau federation

leadership

County Farm Bureau Membership Winners Announced Forty-one county Farm Bureaus recently earned recognition for their membership recruitment efforts. County Farm Bureaus that reached their 2011 goal for new voting members during the period between October and April will each receive a $1,000 cash award.

“County Farm Bureau volunteers made a tremendous membership effort in recent weeks, helping to sign up more than 400 new voting Farm Bureau members during the month of April,” said Bob Leege, Executive Director of Member Relations.

“It takes a coordinated team effort for a county Farm Bureau to sign enough new members to reach their new voting goal by the end of April. The counties that reached this goal have put themselves in a good position to achieve membership growth by the end of our membership year on September 30.”

The counties that reached their 2011 new voting member goal by April 29 and qualified for the cash incentive are highlighted on this map.

Farm Bureau Member Collects $500 Reward Adams County Farm Bureau President Kay Martz presents Bill Grabarski with a $500 check as part of Farm Bureau’s Reward Program. Farm Bureau provides a $500 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of persons for arson, theft or criminal damage on a Farm Bureau member’s property when the special $500 reward sign is posted on the property. Grabarski, who lives near Grand Marsh in Adams County, reported information that led to the arrest and conviction of a perpetrator for theft on his property.

june | july 2011

www.wfbf.com

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leadership Farm Bureau Members

Give Honest Depiction of Farm Life Blog post by Alison Kepner The following was an excerpt of an online article about a Madison elementary school’s use of a magazine produced to push a pro-vegan and antianimal agriculture agenda on children. Below that is a blog post from Dane County Farm Bureau member Alison Kepner about what happened next.

“Children come into the world as blank slates. They learn what is right and what is wrong by watching their parents and the world around them. Sadly, most of these lessons teach them that animals are for us to eat, torment, and use as we choose.

But some elementary school teachers around the state have been encouraging their students to be kind to animals. For three years – the Alliance for Animals has been providing classroom sets of the magazine KIND News, produced by the Humane Society of the United States, to help teachers who are teaching their students to be kind to animals.

We honor Aldo Leopold Elementary because more teachers there use KIND News than in any other school in the state, to the best of our knowledge.

We honor the teachers at Aldo Leopold using KIND News and working to lead their students to becoming thoughtful and caring adults.”

This is the article that started it all.

Employees of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation notified me of this article in early March with hopes that this school could be reached for an accurate lesson plan. I have been the Dane County Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom coordinator since November 2010 and this was a tall order to fill. I wanted to educate the 26

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teachers and students alike, but at the same time I didn’t want to give HSUS any publicity - even negative. After discussing the article with the board of directors, we decided the best and most positive way to approach the school was with a general “Meet a Farmer” classroom visit.

I first talked with the principal and he said he knew nothing of the magazine or the award. He agreed to reach out to the teachers and see who would be interested in having Dane County Ag in the Classroom enter their classrooms. We received a positive response from one fourth grade classroom.

Not to be discouraged, Pat O’Brien, Dane County Farm Bureau Board Member and local dairy farmer, and I went to Aldo Leopold on National Ag Day, March 15. Pat brought in many examples of how his farm operates daily. The classroom visit went so well we set up a farm visit for later in April

as a capstone to a positive farm education experience. On April 27, a total of 40 fourth and fifth grade students arrived at Stoner Prairie Dairy (owned and operated

by Pat and Tom O’Brien) for a two-hour dairy farm tour.

Aldo Leopold Elementary School is a duallanguage immersion school, which means students are taught literacy and academic content in both English and Spanish. The morning started with a classroom session where two bilingual volunteers were on hand to help translate uncommon farm terms. The kids had all kinds of questions, forage samples were displayed, and four lucky students milked a cow by hand! After reviewing fun dairy facts, an interactive discussion about other Wisconsin products led to our “Snacking Around Wisconsin” demonstration.

The students then toured the farm via tractor and wagon. They saw the different

wisconsin farm bureau federation

Ag Day on Campus

The UW-Madison Collegiate Farm Bureau organized “Ag Day on Campus� on April 28 to help remind fellow students of the impact farmers and agriculture have on their daily lives. Members of the ag-based collegiate groups that participated in the event are shown here aboard a tractor parked in the center of downtown Madison.

areas cows are kept, depending on age. We strategically planned the tour around the time of milking so the students were able to experience and fully understand where dairy products come from. The students bottle fed calves and learned about the milking process. The tour ended with goodie bags, a group picture and a lot of excited kids. I am confident that this group of nonfarm kids would even be able to explain where they got their dairy products if asked.

Dane County Ag in the Classroom became involved with Aldo Leopold because of a controversial article.

Instead of chastising the school, we did our best to turn the situation into a constructive learning experience. All in all, it was a great experience and now Dane County Ag in the Classroom has a presence in Aldo Leopold and I am confident the relationship will only continue to grow over time.

Blog post by Alison Kepner reprinted with permission from the Vita Plus Thank Farmers! Blog at http://thankfarmersblog. vitaplus.com. Photos by Sheri Sutton. june | july 2011

Curtis Horsens and Kathryn Ruh were among the agricultural students handing out string cheese samples to pedestrians on the Library Mall as part of Ag Day on Campus. They also provided their fellow co-eds with informational flyers about agriculture, including its positive impact on Wisconsin’s economy and providing an abundant, safe food supply.

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leadership

Krull Wins GROWMARK Essay Contest Cassandra Krull of Lake Mills has been named the Wisconsin’s winner of the 2011 GROWMARK essay contest for FFA members. The theme of this year’s contest was “The Importance of Agriculture in Everyday Life.”

In her contest entry, Krull said: “Whether you appreciate the food produced by farmers, the land they maintain, the jobs they create, or the economic activity they provide to your community, agriculture is in our lives every day.”

Krull is a student at Lake Mills High School and a member of the Lake Mills FFA chapter. Her FFA advisor is Richard Dykstra.

As the contest winner, Krull will receive a $500 scholarship from GROWMARK at the Wisconsin State FFA Convention, held in Madison this month. The Lake Mills FFA chapter will also receive a $300 award in honor of her accomplishment to help future students.

Four state runners-up will each receive a $125 scholarship. The runners-up and their FFA chapters are: Zachary Markhardt, Black River Falls FFA; Alex Sievert, Bonduel FFA; Ryan Spaude, Oconto Falls FFA; and Bryan Wendt, Stoughton FFA. This is the eighteenth year for the program, sponsored by the GROWMARK System and FS member cooperatives, in conjunction with state FFA leaders, to help young people develop their writing skills, learn about current issues in agriculture, and understand the unique role of cooperatives.

GROWMARK is a regional cooperative providing agriculture-related products and services, as well as grain marketing in 31 states and Ontario, Canada. GROWMARK owns the FS trademark, which is used by affiliated member cooperatives. The FS brand represents knowledgeable, experienced professionals acting with integrity and dedication to serve more than 100,000 customers. More information is available at www.growmark.com.

Wisconsin Women in Baltimore A contingent of Wisconsin Farm Bureau members were among the nearly 500 attendees at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s National Women’s Leadership Conference in Baltimore, Maryland, April 15-19. “Changing Perceptions, Unlimited Possibilities,” the theme of the conference, captured the essence of why Farm Bureau women made the commitment to attend: to learn techniques for changing perceptions about agriculture and women who are involved in it. Shown here in the front row (left to right) are: Jane Mueller, Kathy Papcke, Rosie Lisowe, and Vicky Harter. Second row: Jennifer Mueller, Melanie Peterson, Tonra Degner, Robin Degner, Linda Wachholz, and Mary Prestrud. Back row: Cecelia Brooks, Carol Ihde, Sarah Horsch, Karen Reisinger and Nicole Adrian.

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wisconsin farm bureau federation

Plans Underway for Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation (WFBF) members from across the state will meet at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells on December 3-5 for the organization’s 92nd Annual Meeting.

Members will set the Farm Bureau’s 2012 legislative policies, hear updates on pressing agricultural topics from engaging guest speakers, network with others passionate about agriculture, and recognize those who contributed to Farm Bureau’s success in 2011.

WFBF is proud to announce that Las Vegas-based entertainer Jeff Civillico will headline this year’s Farm Bureau Extravaganza on Saturday evening, December 3. Civillico’s highly active (and interactive) “Comedy in Action” performance blends comedy, juggling, balancing, athleticism and audience participation to produce an unforgettable experience. When he’s not performing for major corporate events nationwide, he regularly appears in several shows on the Las Vegas strip.

“Along with our affiliate sponsors, Rural Mutual Insurance Company and GROWMARK, Inc., we are fortunate to have the generous support of Green Stone Farm Credit Services and United Farm Credit Services to help make the Farm Bureau Extravaganza possible,” said Bob Leege, Farm Bureau’s Executive Director of Member Relations.

This year’s Annual Meeting will again coincide with the WFBF Young Farmer & Agriculturist (YFA) Conference which will be held Friday through Sunday, December 2-4.

“The combined format of these two events allows us to showcase Farm Bureau’s programs and opportunities to a growing pool of younger members who will hopefully become involved at the county and state levels,” Leege said. “Last year’s Annual Meeting

and YFA Conference attracted more than 1,000 members and guests for the third year in a row, and we are confident that we can build on that number again this year.”

Jeff Civilli

co

This year’s keynote speaker will be Dick Wittman, a farm management consultant, contributing editor for Farm Futures magazine, and adjunct faculty member of Texas A&M Dick Wittm University. Wittman will address an members on Sunday, December 4 with his keynote presentation titled “Positioning Your Farm Business for Successful Transition.”

Wittman will tackle a number of sensitive issues related to family business management. He has been a working family farm manager who has also provided family farm business transition consulting for over 30 years. He notes that business practices and relationship problems, not economic issues, are often the reason family operations dissolve and the transition processes fail.

The 92nd WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference both promise to be events you will not want to miss. Registration materials will be sent to county Farm Bureau offices in early August.

Thank You Sandy!

After 44 years of dedicated service to the Wisconsin Farm Bureau and Rural Mutual Insurance Company, Sandy Dorshak is retiring. Sandy started as a Farm Bureau Secretary in a Wausau branch office. She later transferred to the service center in Madison. She was the first full-time female agent and first female in field management with Rural Mutual. She will be retiring as the company’s Executive Assistant on July 1.

“Sandy has been here more than half the lifetime of the company,” said Peter Pelizza, Rural Mutual’s Executive Vice President and CEO. “It is people like Sandy who have modeled who we are today as an insurance company that serves our policyholders, agents, fellow employees and Farm Bureau members. Thank you Sandy for the tremendous impact you have made.”

june | july 2011

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leadership Hawaii Hosts AFBF’s 93rd Annual Meeting Navigating the Waves of Change is the theme for the 93rd Annual Meeting of the American Farm Bureau Federation, set for January 8-11, 2012, in Honolulu.

Home to Hawaii’s state capitol, Honolulu is a vibrant center of Hawaiian art, culture, and entertainment. Wisconsin Farm Bureau members traveling to this year’s event will stay on Waikiki Beach, just blocks from the Hawaii Convention Center, site of the AFBF Annual Meeting.

The 2012 Annual Meeting will again feature a variety of issue conferences, top-notch speakers, and the Farm Bureau Showcase.

The Annual Meeting 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 tours before and after the Annual Meeting, including several that highlight the diversity of Hawaiian agriculture.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau has arranged an optional week-long

pre-convention “island-hopping” Hawaiian cruise on Norwegian Cruise Lines’ Pride of America. WFBF has blocked a limited number of cabins on this cruise, and space is still available. Sailing roundtrip from Honolulu, the cruise will take place December 31, 2011 through January 7, 2012 and will visit five ports of call on four islands: Oahu, Maui, Hawaii’s Big Island, and Kauai.

Registration materials for the AFBF Annual Meeting will be available in September. For information on the Hawaiian cruise, contact Bob Leege, WFBF Executive Director of Member Relations, at 608.828.5710 or by e-mail at bleege@wfbf.com.

Rural Mutual to Sponsor Young Farmers & Agriculturists The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmer & Agriculturist (YFA) Conference will be held December 2-4 at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells.

Rural Mutual Insurance Company will again sponsor up to 100 first-time attendees to this year’s event.

This sponsorship opportunity is open to any Farm Bureau member age 18-35 who has never attended the event. First-time participants who are selected to attend will receive complimentary conference registration and two nights lodging at the Kalahari Resort. The conference registration includes five meals, workshop sessions and entertainment.

To be considered for sponsorship, you must complete and submit an application by August 15. Application forms are available from WFBF by calling 800.261.FARM, or from the WFBF website at www.WFBF. com. If you have been selected, you will be notified by September 15 and additional 30

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details regarding the conference will be mailed to you with a required conference registration form.

The Farm Bureau YFA Conference starts on Friday, December 2 with a welcome banquet and social networking time. On Saturday, the conference will feature a series of morning workshops, with the YFA Discussion Meet, Achievement Award and Excellence in Ag competitions following. The evening will be capped by a dinner and entertainment featuring the comedy and acrobatics of entertainer Jeff Civillico. Sunday’s events include the WFBF Discussion Meet Finals, a buffet brunch

and Farm Bureau program, and free time to enjoy the Kalahari Resort.

Rural Mutual Insurance Company is a major sponsor of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmer & Agriculturist program, and takes pride in supporting the programs that develop future leaders for Farm Bureau and for Wisconsin agriculture.

wisconsin farm bureau federation

Spring YFA Events Young Farmer’s Ball Over 150 Young Farmer and Agriculturist (YFA) members from across the state came out for a good time at the Young Farmer’s Ball in Fond du Lac on March 19. The four-hour event was filled with laughter, fine snacks, door prizes and great memories. The countryrock band Chasin’ Mason kept everyone entertained. Tim Clark, Fond du Lac County’s YFA Chair organized, planned and promoted it.

Jordan Bittelman and KC Bandit from Marquette County were lucky and happy door prize winners.

Brewers Game The Milwaukee Brewers shut out the Chicago Cubs in a 6-0 win Saturday, April 9 and 120 of Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer & Agriculturist members were on hand to cheer them on. Three buses and numerous cars joined to tailgate prior to the game. This was the third year that YFA members held this event, but it was the first time they made t-shirts to promote Farm Bureau. The front of the shirts featured a logo with the words “We Farm, You Eat.” District 1 Coordinator Christy Strobel, District 2 Coordinator Becky Anding, and District 2 YFA Chair Maria McGinnis, organized the event. Anding is shown here between Stephanie Stout of Rock County and Katelin Haglund of Dunn County.

Spring Fling The 4th Annual Spring Fling Dance on April 2 yielded its greatest attendance yet – surpassing the 400 mark.

Members from all across the state came to socialize, network and dance to the entertainment of Geoff Langdon & the Wolf Pack. Rochelle Ripp (Dane County), Alison Kepner (Dane County) and Rick Roden (Ozaukee County) were among the Spring Fling attendees at the Columbian in West Bend. Roden was the chair of the event and organized everything from tickets to posters to radio advertisements.

june | july 2011

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ag in the classroom

Visit Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom at…

Wisconsin FFA Convention Madison June 13-16 Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom (AITC) will present a workshop on Tuesday, June 14 on AITC resources. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation sponsors the FFA’s Food for America Contest and the Discussion Meet competition. Wisconsin Farm Bureau and Ag in the Classroom will have displays at LifeWorks Expo on Wednesday, June 15. Many Farm Bureau members and staff serve as judges at the convention as well as at district and sectional competitions.

Wisconsin Agricultural Educators Professional Development Conference Green Bay June 27-30 Wisconsin AITC will have a display booth and present a workshop on AITC resources for educators. The Wisconsin Ag Education Workforce Development Council will also meet during the conference; Darlene Arneson serves as the agricultural representative on the council. One session of AITC summer teacher training will be offered during this week.

Farm Technology Days Marshfield July 12-14 Visit the AITC booth in the Youth Tent at Farm Technology Days.

Youth will enjoy hands-on activities and there will be resource packets for teachers, volunteers and home school parents. Three days of summer teacher training will be offered at Farm Tech Days.

National Ag in the Classroom Conference Fort Lauderdale, FL June 20-25 Wisconsin has four representatives attending the conference this year. Betty Krcma, agriculture education instructor and FFA advisor in Green Bay, was chosen as a White Reinhardt scholarship recipient. Lisa Condon will represent American Agri-Women at the trade show. Darlene and John Arneson will attend the conference with Darlene serving on the National AITC Executive Committee and as the Sponsor’s Committee Chair.

Agri-Versity at Dane County Fair Madison July 22 Visit the various hands-on activities and displays in the Expo Hall during the Dane County Fair. Commodity groups, 4-H clubs and other groups will join AITC in helping educate urban youth about agriculture.

Wisconsin State Fair West Allis August 4-14 Join Wisconsin AITC at state fair as they sponsor the State Fair Activity Booklets where over 40,000 are distributed. AITC helps staff three days of the State Fair Day Camp which is for urban youth to attend the fair - over 200 youth will take part and have fun-filled days learning about agriculture, visiting displays and enjoying fair food. Three days of summer teacher training is offered during the Wisconsin State Fair. AITC is also helping DATCP develop new displays and activities for their new building.

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wisconsin farm bureau federation

news & Resources for teachers

Hands-On Teacher Training Each summer Ag in the Classroom takes teachers to hands-on agriculture tours. Teachers, pre-service students and volunteers can take advantage of several options for summer teacher training tours, classroom and event offerings all around the state. The training is offered as graduate credits, undergraduate credits and in-service options. Visit www.wisagclassroom.org for information and registration materials.

your summer homework Have your children check out these educational resources: •

My American Farm - www.myamericanfarm. org. This site teaches agricultural literacy through an interactive computer game.

•

American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture - www.agfoundation.org. Check out the resources available on this website such as recommended book lists, links to interactive games and safety information.

•

AgroWorld E-zine - http://agclassroom.org/ teen/agro/flyer.pdf. AgroWorld is a bimonthly E-zine for secondary educators and their students. Each issue features current events, classroom resources, activities, and grant opportunities that enhance standards based science, applied technology, and social studies curriculum.

•

Ag Research Service’s Science for Kids http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/kids/. It offers science projects, career information and other fun activities connecting science and agriculture.

•

Dairy Doing More - http://www. dairydoingmore.org/. Learn about the Wisconsin dairy industry by visiting farms, following a calf from birth to adulthood and learning lots of dairy facts.

june | july 2011

Summer Teacher Training Opportunities: •

Wednesday, June 29, Green Bay area tour

•

Thursday, July 7, Madison area tour

•

Friday, July 8, Madison area classroom

•

Tuesday, July 12, Farm Technology Days, Marshfield

•

Wednesday, July 13, Farm Technology Days, Marshfield

•

Thursday, July 14, Farm Technology Days, Marshfield

•

Tuesday, August 2, River Falls tour day

•

Wednesday, August 3, River Falls classroom day

•

Friday, August 5, Wisconsin State Fair, West Allis

•

Tuesday, August 9, Wisconsin State Fair, West Allis

•

Friday, August 12, Wisconsin State Fair, West Allis

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ag in the classroom

Let ’s Play: New and Improved Ag Online Game Launched

T

he American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture launched its new and enhanced version of “MyAmericanFarm.org,” a free online interactive gaming platform, that focuses on third- through fifth-grade students. The new version offers more agriculture-related games and activities for kids coupled with additional educator resources.

“My American Farm” was developed to engage millions of youth, teachers and parents through unique educational experiences, educator resources and fun family activities in an online environment.

“One of the main things we tried to do was not only provide these games, but also provide resources and ways to search the site so educators can find information easily by subject matter and agricultural themes and topics,” said Curtis Miller, director of education for the foundation. “We also have fun family activities for when kids come home from school and they have that time on the computer.”

The foundation has expanded the original five games in “MyAmericanFarm. org” to 12 and added in-the-classroom fieldtrip videos, e-comics, interactive quizzes and many other fun features. Some of the games include: “Ag Across America,” “Keys to Stewardship,” “Harvest This!” and “Farmers’ Market Challenge.”

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wisconsin farm bureau federation

Also new to the website is the feature “Passport to Sustainability,” a passport for students to download on their first visit to the site with printable rewards at the completion of each game. When they collect all 12 rewards they have a full passport.

“We realized we could do more to keep kids playing and learning,” said Miller. “The passport entices them to go through all of the games.”

myamericanfarm.org

Some of the fun family activities include step-bystep instructions on how to build a rain gauge and car trip bingo, which encourages kids to look for agricultural structures and animals during those long car rides.

All of the games and activities are subject-matter focused and agriculturally themed so that students learn through math, science, social studies, language arts and health. They learn about such topics as careers in agriculture and how farmers feed the world, care for their animals and take care of the environment. The games also appeal to a variety of different learning styles.

“Our overall goal for the game is to teach agricultural subject matter through entertainment,” said Miller. “We are reaching out to young people to teach them the connection between where their food is grown and where it is eaten in a platform they are interested in and can relate to.”

The free games, activities and educator resources are available to everyone at www.myamericanfarm.org.

“A Strong Agriculture Means a Strong America” Keep your eyes open for this Farm Bureau/Frontier FS float in parades around Wisconsin from now through October. With a pasture scene, cow, pig, flags and white fence, its main goal is to increase awareness of agriculture and spark discussion with its message of, “A Strong Agriculture means a Strong America.”

You will see this float in parades in the communities of: Argyle, Arlington, Columbus, Ixonia, Middleton, Monona, Monroe, Mt. Horeb, Prairie du Sac, Reedsburg, Spring Green, Stoughton, Sun Prairie, Verona and Waunakee.

june | july 2011

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foundation

Soybeans used for Science

In April, 31 teachers and volunteers attended a training session on Soybean Science Kits hosted by the Ag in the Classroom Program in Portage.

Participants had opportunities to experience all 21 lessons from the Soybean Science Kits. Each presenter provided lesson plans, educational resources, and program offerings that teachers and volunteers can use in their classroom and other activities.

The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board has funded 59 kits which are placed with Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom county contacts.

Darby Sampson, Jackson County, and Krista Dolan, Iowa County, had some fun making gluep. This Soybean Science Kit lesson demonstrates to students that chains (polymers) behave in many interesting and surprising ways depending on how the chains are made.

The lesson uses borax, white glue, and water to help students cross-link a polymer. In this activity, borax is the substance that will chemically cross-link the polymers in glue.

Participants were taught how to make beeswax lip balm using two key ingredients: beeswax and soybean oil. As beeswax melts, the solid becomes melted to a liquid but once combined with soybean oil the mixture cools and turns back to a solid. The lesson involves discussing the moistureretaining properties of oil in relation to animals and plants. Ducks, penguins and waterfowl will use oil to waterproof their feathers so that water does not soak into their feathers- allowing the water birds to stay warm and dry. The waxy film on plant leaves allows the plant to hold on to moisture.

The training featured the developers of the kits, along with representatives of the Wisconsin Pork Association, Wisconsin Beef Council, Wisconsin Dairy Council, Wisconsin Christmas Tree Producers Association, and Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Coordinator Darlene Arneson.

The event was supported by the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board, along with funding from the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation’s Jeannette Poulson Fund.

“I wrote a grant to get Soybean Science Kits for my classroom and the entire fourth grade here in New Richmond. The experiments are fabulous and really lend themselves to peerteachings and bringing the info up to a higher level with inquirybased education for the high schoolers too. My leadership class a few years ago was instrumental in teaching and making it happen.

I highly recommend the soybean science kit!”

- Rachel Sauvola, New Richmond FFA Chapter Soybean Science Kit instructor Fred Henderson demonstrated a glue-making lesson to Farm Bureau members Don Meyer of Sauk County and Katie Reichling of Lafayette County. Polymers come from many different sources and share some properties but also differ because of the animal, vegetable or synthetic ingredients. The lesson involves making animal-based glue from milk and vegetable-based glue from soybeans.

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wisconsin farm bureau federation

Farm Bureau Scholarship Helps Future Veterinarians Melissa Haag is the 2011 recipient

A

scholarship from the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation is helping grow the next crop of veterinarians at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Veterinary Medicine.

“Wisconsin farmers will always need an ample supply of veterinarians to help care for their animals, therefore the Wisconsin Farm Bureau is very proud to continue to offer this scholarship funding to deserving individuals,” said Roger Cliff, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Chief Administrative Officer.

Melissa Haag is this year’s recipient of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Scholarship. A committee selects recipients for the scholarship based on their interest in practicing medicine with large, farm livestock, having a farm background, Farm Bureau affiliation, academics and financial need.

Haag will receive $3,000 over the course of two years. More than $45,000 has been awarded to 44 individuals since the scholarship was endowed in 1985.

“The Farm Bureau was a leader in originally getting the veterinary school built in 1983, and we endowed the scholarship fund two years after its completion,” Cliff said. “Now in 2011 with rural Wisconsin facing a shortage of large animal veterinarians, the need for these veterinarians remains critically important to agriculture’s long-term success.”

About Melissa Haag Melissa Haag is a Fond du Lac native who first began working with animals on her grandparents’ farm, as a 4-H member, and at a local pet boarding facility. During her undergraduate study at UW-Madison, she met her future husband, Josh Haag, a dairy farmer from Dane County.

“Through him, I developed my strong love of farming and dairy cattle,” Haag said. “I became very active with the farm and helping with the cattle.

I also developed a relationship with the local veterinary clinic and worked with the large animal veterinarians. These experiences helped me decide that a career in large animal medicine was definitely what I wanted to pursue.”

Following graduation she would like to work at a large animal veterinary clinic in southwestern Wisconsin as a general dairy practitioner, but eventually would like to focus on embryo transfer and in vitro fertilization technologies. june | july 2011

Dear Wisconsin Farm Bureau,

Thank you very mu ch for sponsoring the 2011 Wisconsin FFA Alumni Convention held in Stevens Point. The convention was a gr eat success. We really appreciate you r support as we continue to promote the ag industry.

Thanks, Eric Trzebiatowski Convention Chair

Dear Darlene,

e and talents Thank you for sharing your tim - River Falls with the Uni versity of Wisconsin ring about the Alpha Tau Alpha. We loved hea for being a new ideas you shared. Thank you Agricultural fri end and resource for us as Education students.

Sincerely, UW-Ri ver Falls Alpha Tau Alpha

To our friends at Wisconsin

Farm Bureau,

Thank you for all your group is doing to help make the Wisconsin Counci l for the Social Studies Conference a success. It is not just what you do here, but what our educators brin g back to the classroom that makes your work so eff ective.

Thank you, Melissa Collum, President and Jennifer Morgan, Program Cha ir Wisconsin Council for the Soc ial

Studies

“As part owner of a small family farm in Dane County, I truly appreciate all of the hard work that the Farm Bureau does to advocate on behalf of the agricultural community in the state of Wisconsin,” Haag wrote in a thank you letter to Farm Bureau.

“Your financial support of myself and other veterinary students is yet another of the many ways your organization contributes to the success of Wisconsin’s food animal industry.”

www.wfbf.com

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Top Ten Reasons

to Attend the Wisconsin Ag Open

You’ll be…

10. Taking time to work on your golf game.

9. Loving a great alternative to farm chores or a day in the office.

8. Donating or bidding on Silent Auction items.

7. Enjoying the conversation with

your foursome.

6. Checking out the new location - The Oaks Golf Course in Cottage Grove.

5. Savoring food and beverages with other participants at the lunch or closing program.

4. Having your company or county Farm Bureau be a sponsor of the event.

3. Enjoying a sunny, fall day in the great outdoors (okay-we can’t guarantee sunshine but we can hope for it!).

2. Networking with other agriculturists.

1. Raising money that helps fund youth, leadership, Ag in the Classroom and other worthwhile projects.

Monday, September 12

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wisconsin farm bureau federation

Save the date! We hope you can join us for the...

Save the date! We hope you can join us for the

14th Annual Golf Outing Fundraiser

14thMonday, Annual Golf Outing Fundraiser September 12, 2011 – New location!!

Monday, September 12, 2011

at

4740 Pierceville Rd, Cottage Grove, Wisconsin 53527

4740 Pierceville Rd, Cottage Grove, Wisconsin 53527

www.golftheoaks.com www.GolfTheOaks.com Darlene Arneson, DirectorDirector Darlene Arneson, darneson.fbcenter@wfbf.com darneson.fbcenter@wfbf.com 608-828-5719

608-828-5719

For registration and sponsorship information, please visit: Watch www.wfbf.com/wfbfoundation for registration and sponsorship information!

www.wfbf.com/wfbfoundation

rural mutual

Rising Property Values Are You Properly Insured?

Wisconsin First, Wisconsin Only Philosophy Pays Off for Rural Mutual The Rural Mutual Insurance Company has announced the release of its 2010 financial statements. Many key areas of the business saw strong growth, which highlight the company’s emergence as one of the state’s premier insurance carriers.

P

roperty insurance is intended to help you get back on your feet by covering the loss of your home or farm buildings.

With crop and livestock prices (especially replacement dairy cows) higher than last year, are your insurance coverage levels where they need to be in the event of a loss?

Take the time to make sure your insurance policy has been updated recently to take into account the increase in building, crop and livestock values. You can do that by contacting your insurance agent to conduct a review of your insurance coverage – before you find out that your insurance policy comes up short.

Remember, if you want to cover full costs to replace property in a loss; strive to have your insurance coverage be close to 100 percent of the replacement cost.

Tips on reviewing your insurance coverage with your agent:

• Make sure the proper description, dimensions and construction style of your buildings are included.

• If you’ve done extensive remodeling or made new purchases, notify your agent.

• Discuss the levels of coverage you want on property in the event you experience a loss.

• Know the difference between comprehensive and named peril coverage. Comprehensive coverage covers most losses, except those excluded. Named peril coverage applies only to loss caused by the perils listed on the policy.

• Discuss an inflation guard option to make sure the

coverage value of your buildings adjusts with inflation.

“We only have one customer base, one area of interest, and that is Wisconsin,” says Peter Pelizza, CEO of Rural Mutual. “And it has paid off.”

Pelizza considers the company’s Dairy State focus as one of its strongest selling points, and strongest assets in a difficult selling cycle for many.

“The insurance industry finds itself in a ‘soft market,’ which is defined by low premiums and high competition as people value shop in a down economy,” says Pelizza. “Not only did our direct premiums see a rise but our retention was almost 89 percent. Both are remarkable in this business climate.”

Another metric used to gauge financial strength in the industry is the company’s ‘combined ratio.’

Rural Mutual posted a ratio 8.7 points better than its average Wisconsin competitor, a trend revisited many times throughout the 2010 financial report.

Rural Mutual’s ability to compete on price with larger multi-state outfits was bolstered by a recent upgrade from global credit rating giant AM Best to “A Excellent.” As a result, Rural Mutual outperformed its in-state competition when it came to profitability and financial strength. That stability was reiterated when the company was recognized as one of the Ward 50, an award bestowed on the top 50 propertycasualty insurance companies in the nation.

“The last thing anyone wants to see is their insurance company on shaky financial ground,” remarks Pelizza. “Our namesake clients, the farmers of this state, have provided a strong base from which all our customers benefit. This latest round of financials proves that point beautifully.”

• Even if you have an inflation guard, recheck your policy annually.

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LEAVE A LEGACY FOR THE FUTURE

Traditions Universal Life

insurance can help make it simple for you to: TM

v Maximize the legacy you plan to share

with loved ones or your favorite charity v Maintain control of your assets v Protect your family from the unexpected

Contact your Rural Mutual Insurance agent to learn about the tax advantages and guaranteed1 protection that Traditions Universal Life can provide.

Rural Mutual The guarantees expressed here are based upon the claims-paying ability of Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company.

Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company/West Des Moines, IA Š 2011 FBL Financial Group, Inc. LI143-WI (5-11)

1

Insurance Company

If you share our rural values…

If you want to be in business for yourself but not by yourself…

If you want the hottest career in finance today…

…Consider a career with rural Mutual Insurance.

Why A CAreer In InsurAnCe? As the population ages and wealth grows, the demand for insurance professionals will increase dramatically. This is great news for you if you’re thinking of going into insurance. You will help clients understand their insurance needs, explain their options to them and hopefully help them purchase appropriate insurance policies.

Why rurAl MutuAl InsurAnCe? Rural Mutual Insurance values what’s important in life. That’s why we have been protecting families, businesses and farms exclusively in Wisconsin for over 75 years. In fact, we are the number one insurer of farm families in the state. That’s important because Wisconsin’s $60 billion agriculture industry accounts for one in ten jobs in Wisconsin. And since Rural Mutual Insurance does business in only one state, premiums paid here, stay here to keep Wisconsin strong.

But our mission goes beyond farms to provide a full line of personal and business insurance. This combination of policy types and our strong financial position—Rural Mutual has been recognized for the second consecutive year as one of the Top 50 Property and Casualty Insurers in America—means we have the stability you can count on in building your career. Our agents are motivated, want to control their financial growth, and strive to be respected professionals in their communities.

Right now, we are looking to grow the Rural Mutual family with dedicated agents who understand the diverse landscape of Wisconsin, have a passion for agriculture and know the importance of building relationships with their customers.

If you would like to join forces with Rural Mutual’s 150 professional insurance agents across Wisconsin, contact:

Gerry Colbert | 715-736-2499 | gcolbert@ruralins.com

1241 John Q Hammons Drive PO Box 5555 | Madison, WI 53705-0555 UndividedAttention.com