HARVEST Magazine

FOCUSED ON AG. FOCUSED ON YOU. September 2024

HARVEST

AgCountry.com

resounding theme everywhere I went to was today’s farm economy.

Depressed commodity prices and inflated costs have caused the agriculture industry to face strong headwinds and thin margins for farm profitability.

A Letter from Leadership Greetings, The summer season never seems long enough in the upper Midwest.

It’s jam-packed with additional events, time with family, vacations, and the occasional relaxation.

AgCountry has spent much of the summer hosting customer appreciation events and attending farm shows such as Farmfest, Farm Technology Days, and the Big Iron Farm and Construction Show. I have made it a point to attend as many of these events as possible. There is no better way to personally thank our member-owners for their continued support of their cooperative.

Attending these events also provided an opportunity to collect feedback and hear what’s on the minds of those we serve. A

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It can be easy to focus on the negatives we see. However, farmers and ranchers are coming into this cycle from a position of strength.

Our members have worked hard to build healthy balance sheets, cash reserves, and working capital. Every decision made today still matters, but knowing you have available resources and access to AgCountry knowledge helps you manage the risks and headwinds you face.

The segment of agriculture who may not have built solid positions are young or beginning farmers.

Getting a start in this industry takes a lot of resources. Starting at a time like this adds an extra layer of complexity. Please know that resources exist to help provide a leg up. AgCountry’s Starting Gate program offers a holistic approach to meeting the needs of those getting their start.

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to work with a team that understands agriculture and its market cycles. Anyone can provide you with financial products,

but the advice may not take into consideration the full scope of agricultural tax laws, commodity markets, succession and retirement plans, or risk mitigation through insurance. AgCountry and our Collaboration partners at Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit are here for the long term. We work to position our members to achieve their financial goals.

We are dedicated to supporting you through every economic cycle.

Our cooperative is well-equipped to help you manage risks and seize opportunities. Reach out to us for guidance and support tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can overcome today’s challenges and build a stronger tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Marc Knisely EVP AgCountry Business Development 701-499-2559 Marc.Knisely@AgCountry.com

Contents 4

12-13

Congratulations to the Newly Elected and Re-elected Board Members

AgCountry Benchmarks Continue to Rise

5-6

14

Getting More Out of Your Coverage with ECO

Senator Amy Klobuchar and Rep. Brad Finstad Receive Friend of Farm Credit Awards

7-8

15

What to Consider When Buying Recreational Land

Legislative Update

9-10

16-17

18

Is a Will Enough for Your Estate Plan?

Fall Harvest Safety: Essential Tips for Farmers

2024 Upperclassmen Scholarship Recipients

Correction to the June AgCountry Grow Magazine July 3, 2024 The original version of the Exploring All YBF Options with Starting Gate article in the 2024 Grow Magazine did not mention the $300,150 maximum borrowing amount from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the figures displayed incorrect information.

Figure 1 did not fully display how FSA’s 5-45-50 program works. The wrong program name, example numbers, and figure description were used in Figure 2. FSA loans cannot be used with Bank of North Dakota’s (BND’s) Chattel Loan Program.

AgCountry Farm Credit Services, ACA is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender and Equal Opportunity Employer. The information in this magazine has been prepared for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice. This publication is copyrighted in its entirety. © 2024 All rights reserved.

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ANNUAL MEETING & ELECTION

Congratulations to the Newly Elected and Re-Elected Board Members The official results of the 2024 AgCountry Election are in. For biographical information on the entire Board, visit AgCountry.com/BoardMembers.

The following candidates have been elected to serve on the AgCountry Farm Credit Services Board of Directors with a four-year term:

The members of the 2024-2025 Nominating Committee by geographic area are: Area 1A-ND East Alexander Bata, Adams, ND Adam Held, Egeland, ND Lee Siegert, Hillsboro, ND Area 1B-ND David Dahl, Verona, ND Joe Ericson, Wimbledon, ND Jeremy Rittenbach, Jamestown, ND Area 2A-MN Kimmy Efta, Greenbush, MN Andrew Jossund, Hendrum, MN Alex Moore, Hallock, MN

Area 1 ND

Area 2 MN

Area 4 ND

Kurt Elliott

Curtis Trost

Shawn Murphy

Wabasso, MN

Blanchard, ND

Carpio, ND

A special thank you to our Directors who are retiring from the Board: Mark Ellison for 29 years of service on the AgCountry Board.

Tom Henry joined the AgCountry Board in 2022 and has served a total of 15 consecutive years on Farm Credit System Boards.

Bowbells

4 Minot

Williston

Langdon Cavalier Hallock

Bottineau Rugby

Ward County Crop Insurance

Devils Lake

Carrington

1 LaMoure

Lisbon

2

Detroit Lakes

Wahpeton

Fergus Falls

Elbow Lake Alexandria Morris Graceville Madison

Willmar

Olivia Redwood Marshall Falls

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Alternate: Jeffrey Oberholtzer, Mohall, ND*

Warren Thief River Falls Crookston Fosston Hillsboro Ada Fargo

Area 3-WI Bruce Gumz, Dorchester, WI Dennis Jakobi, Granton, WI Mitch Malm, Loyal, WI

Roseau

Grand Forks

Jamestown Valley City

Area 2C-MN Kurt Garner, Grove City, MN Ron P. Maurer, Windom, MN Patricia Nygard, Madison, MN

Area 4-ND West Matthew Gates, Mohall, ND Kenneth Schmid, Devils Lake, ND Dean Schoenberg, Mohall, ND

Map of AgCountry’s Four Geographic Nomination areas for Director Candidates Crosby

Area 2B-MN Tanner Davison, Wendell, MN Robert Dombeck, Perham, MN Jeremy Westerman, Chokio, MN

3 Medford

Wausau

Thorp Stevens Point

The alternate member may be called upon to serve if one of the other members is unable or becomes ineligible to serve. *

CROP INSURANCE

Getting More Out of Your Coverage

with ECO Written by: Bill Roiger, Sr Insurance and Marketing Education Specialist Today’s volatile market demands thoughtful risk management. Crop insurance helps protect operations against declines in crop yields and/or revenue, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced expansions to the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO), which includes additional crops and increases premium support to make the policy more affordable in 2025.

This powerful tool helps to safeguard your bottom line.

Your AgCountry insurance specialist understands the intricacies of ECO and has the tools to help you make the best decision for your operation.

What is ECO? ECO is an endorsement option or add-on policy providing area-based coverage for existing crop insurance policies. You can use it to get 95% coverage for 31 crop varieties grown across Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. Add ECO to Yield Protection (YP), Revenue Protection (RP), or Revenue Protection with the Harvest Price Exclusion (RPHPE). You can also participate in both ECO and Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) on the same acres.

Let’s examine a few scenarios and see how ECO can benefit producers and mitigate risk across our territory.

Scenario 1 Who: Dairy operator in Wisconsin concerned about getting corn bushels for feed.

MPCI Plan: 70% multi-peril crop insurance (MPCI) YP plan.

ECO Endorsement: 95% county yield protection only (there is no revenue or price movement component when an ECO endorsement is used in this manner).

Total Coverage: Figure 1 shows coverage for $25.58 per acre ($10.44 per acre for ECO + $15.14 per acre for the base YP plan). Depending on the actual production history (APH), the first bushel of this dairy operator’s farm up to 70% of their approved APH yield is insured, along with protecting the county’s expected yield at a very high 95% level. With this top-end bushel protection based on the county, this operator likely has an indemnity coming their way to put towards feed if the county comes up short.

Insurance Plan

Ind. Policy Cov. Level

Area Policy Cov. Level

Producer Prem/ Ac

Total Liability

Highest Yield Trigger/ Ac

Unit Structure

Yield Protection w/ECO

70%

95%/100%

$25.58

$645.40

128.8

EU

Figure 1. Chart showing the cost of adding an ECO endorsement to a 70% YP plan for a dairy operator in Wisconsin.

Scenario 2 Who: Longtime soybean producer in Minnesota concerned about volatile soybean prices, interested in increasing protection to mitigate risk.

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CROP INSURANCE

MPCI Plan: 85% MPCI RP plan.

ECO Endorsement: 95% protection on market price movement (revenue) and county yield (bushels) when ECO is placed on a base RP plan.

Total Coverage: ECO provides more than bushel protection for this soybean producer. Figure 2 shows this producer can lock in this package for $23.74 per acre ($7.61 per acre for the ECO endorsement and $16.13 per acre for the base RP plan). Protecting bushel one on the farm up to 85% of their APHapproved yield and protecting the county’s expected yield with a 95% coverage level loss trigger. Recall this is an RP-based package, so if this year’s market price declines between spring and fall, a high 95% level coverage will be one of the first types of federal crop insurance to trigger a payment due solely to price decline. This gives the soybean producer the protection needed when facing a volatile market.

Insurance Plan

Ind. Policy Cov. Level

Area Policy Cov. Level

Producer Prem/ Ac

Total Liability

Highest Yield Trigger/ Ac

Unit Structure

Rev. Protection w/ECO

85%

95%/100%

$23.74

$553.77

53.6

EU

Figure 2. Chart showing the cost of adding an ECO endorsement to an 85% RP plan for a Minnesota soybean producer.

Scenario 3 Who: Diversified North Dakota grower with six different crops and participating in federal crop insurance for all of them. Looking for added protection on just their wheat crop.

MPCI Plan: 70% MPCI RP plan.

ECO Endorsement: 95% protection on market price movement (revenue) and county yield (bushels) when ECO is placed on a base RP plan.

Total Coverage: Using a feature of ECO, we can create two options for the North Dakota producer.

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Option 1: Shown in Figure 3, with a 70% RP and 95% ECO endorsement the package is $11.23 per acre ($6.15 per acre for the ECO endorsement and $5.07 per acre for the base RP plan). This covers from one bushel up to 70% of their APH-approved yield, with the high 95% level trigger on countyexpected bushels. If doubling the premium is too expensive, ECO has a feature that can lower the value per bushel within the coverage. See option 2.

Option 2: Edit the amount of value per bushel inside the coverage. With ECO, we can take the price per bushel inside the endorsement down to a low of 50% and cut the coverage, and premium price, in half. By doing this, we shift total cost of the package to $8.15 per acre ($3.08 per acre for the ECO endorsement and $5.07 per acre for the base RP plan). The producer still has the same 95% trigger for loss, which begins as the market price declines, or when the county yield comes in below 95% of its expectation. The main difference is the overall total value of ECO coverage will be half as much as option 1 and this value of coverage pays out more slowly.

Insurance Plan

Ind. Policy Cov. Level

Area Policy Cov. Level

Producer Prem/ Ac

Total Liability

Highest Yield Trigger/ Ac

Unit Structure

Rev. Protection w/ECO

70%

95%/100%

$11.23

$292.23

52.0

EU

Figure 3. Chart showing the cost of adding an ECO Endorsement to a 70% RP plan on wheat for a North Dakota producer.

There are many operation types and crop and county scenarios where ECO can be beneficial. We only covered a few, but AgCountry can tailor a risk management plan for your operation and location to fit your specific needs.

Ready to explore ECO? Contact your local AgCountry insurance specialist today. Our team is happy to answer any of your questions and walk through your options.

Have a safe fall harvest season!

Each scenario given is for illustrative purposes only. Randomized data was selected out of each of the three states in AgCountry’s service area for these scenarios.

HOME LOANS

What to Consider When Buying Recreational Land Written by: Pam Zinda, VP Home Loan Officer Owning recreational land is a goal for many people, whether it is camping, hunting, fishing, or looking for a long-term investment. Finding good recreational or hunting land opportunities can be a competitive and challenging task. Having the right information and being prepared are critical for when the situation presents itself. AgCountry is here to help at every stage of the experience.

Consider the following if you see a recreational or hunting land purchase in your future.

Develop a Plan Having a plan is important anytime you enter a competitive environment—especially with real estate. Identify desired property locations and characteristics, funds available for a down payment, monthly payment capacity, and maximum amounts you are willing to spend.

Also, consider short- and long-term plans for the property. Ask yourself:

We all know plans can change, but considering these items can help you develop your initial recreational and hunting land purchase strategy.

Identify Restrictions & Opportunities Hunting land parcels are often placed in environmental or public access programs, which can be beneficial or restrictive depending on how these programs are utilized. Some of these programs can be terminated with the transfer of ownership, others may carry 100-year easements or even perpetuity agreements. Additionally, these conservation programs can seriously limit what you can do on the property and can lessen the resale value. Planting crops or food plots, building homes, and even building placement can be affected. Easements for access to neighboring

1.

Do I plan on keeping this property for generations to come?

2. Is this an investment I would be willing to part with for the right price?

3. Would I see myself building a shed or home on the property and turning it into my primary home?

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HOME LOANS parcels, mineral rights, utilities, and road right-ofway tend to come into play with these types of land parcel purchases as well.

These programs can also be good cost-saving measures if used appropriately. Conservation programs range from annual to one-time lump sum payments, which can make owning land more cost-effective and provide flexibility if needed.

Financing Options Most financing options require a cash down payment typically starting around 20% to 35% of the property’s appraised value or additional available collateral like houses or another parcel of land. The property’s appraised value may differ from your purchase price depending on what other market data suggests the property would sell for in the open market. Knowing what you have available for a down payment can help you establish the limits of your purchase price when a property comes up for sale.

Traditionally, loans for these types of properties tend to be written on adjustable-rate structures, balloon payments, or fixed-rate financing. This type of financing will affect your budgetary

allocations if payments and rates change before your land is paid off. At AgCountry, we have fully fixed, fully amortized lending, which give you consistent payments and mitigate risk in a volatile rate market.

Getting Started Buying real estate is an experience that typically only takes place no more than a couple of times throughout a lifetime. It is important to work with someone who has your best interests in mind and is well-versed in market conditions, regulations, and the constant changes of real estate. Our team will walk you through the process and customize a plan that fits your goals and budget.

Today’s land purchasing environment can be an intimidating adventure that sometimes feels financially unattainable. AgCountry specializes in these situations and our experienced staff helps people daily with customized plans to ease worries and fulfill dreams. Get the solutions you need to turn your dreams into reality whether it’s using a property as is, developing a hobby farm, building a shed, or constructing your dream home.

Visit AgCountry.com/HomeLoans to learn more.

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SUCCESSION & RETIREMENT PLANNING

Is a Will Enough for Your Estate Plan?

Written by: Aaron Sletten, Consultant - Succession and Retirement Planning Farmers have long relied on a will as the primary document for passing their assets, including farmland, to the next generation. A will has historically been seen as sufficient for ensuring farm operations continue smoothly after the owner’s death and the land remains within the family. A will continues to be a critical document in any estate plan as it allows for specifying who will inherit assets, designate guardians for minor children, and name personal representatives to handle the estate. However, estate planning has changed in recent years. The complexity of tax laws, the rising value of farmland, and the need for more sophisticated asset protection have made it clear that a will alone is no longer enough.

Multiple estate planning tools must be considered to ensure a person’s wishes are honored, their families are protected, and their legacies are preserved. Incorporating other estate planning documents, such as Revocable Living Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Health Care Directives, and Limited Liability Limited Partnerships, specifically related to land ownership, can make a smooth transition.

Limitations of Only Using a Will One of the limitations of a will is it must go through probate—a legal process where the will is validated and the estate is administered.

Probate can take months or even years to complete, be expensive, and is open to the public, which are significant concerns for farming families. Farms may face personal and operational financial strains due to an inability to operate as usual during this time. Additionally, court fees and attorney fees associated with probate can be substantial.

These expenses can decrease the estate’s value, leaving less for beneficiaries. Probate is also a public process, meaning anyone can look up the details of the estate, including the value of assets and who will inherit them. This lack of privacy can lead to unwanted attention and potential conflict.

A will provides a straightforward way to distribute assets. Still, it doesn’t offer the flexibility to address more complex situations like estate tax planning, asset protection, or special needs trusts for vulnerable

beneficiaries. Farmland values have increased in recent years, driving many farmers’ estate values up.

Without proper planning, heirs could face significant tax liabilities that might force them to sell off a portion of the farm to pay those taxes. This is especially important for Minnesota residents or individuals who own Minnesota property, as Minnesota estate tax limits are significantly lower than federal estate tax limits.

North Dakota and Wisconsin do not have a state estate tax separate from the federal estate tax.

Another limiting factor is that wills take effect only after death. It does not provide guidance or authority if a person becomes incapacitated and unable to manage their affairs.

This gap in planning can leave the family in a difficult position.

Proper asset titling is crucial as a will can only control assets owned by a person upon their passing. Joint tenancy ownership with rights of survivorship passes to the remaining owner(s). Accounts with beneficiary designations will pass to the beneficiaries regardless of what the will states regarding these assets.

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SUCCESSION & RETIREMENT PLANNING

Additional Options Beyond a Will Consider adding additional estate planning documents to address the limitations of a will. These tools can help protect assets, minimize taxes, and ensure wishes are followed.

Revocable Living Trust Avoids probate, maintains privacy, and manages assets during a lifetime. Unlike a will, a trust takes effect immediately upon its creation and continues to operate after death. Assets held in a Revocable Living Trust are not subject to probate and can be distributed to beneficiaries quickly and privately.

This benefits farmers who want to ensure that the farm continues to operate smoothly without the delays and costs associated with probate. This type of trust allows for control over the assets during a lifetime and can be amended or revoked at any time.

A Revocable Living Trust also provides a plan for managing assets if a person becomes incapacitated. A

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successor trustee can be designated to take over management of the trust. This ensures the farm and other assets are managed according to the predetermined wishes. A Revocable Living Trust does not offer immediate tax benefits, but it can be part of an estate plan that includes other documents to minimize estate taxes.

Durable Power of Attorney Allows someone to act on a person’s behalf in financial or legal matters. This includes paying bills, managing bank accounts, handling investments, and making decisions about the farming operation, even if a person becomes incapacitated.

Health Care Directive Specifies a person’s wishes regarding medical treatment where a person is unable to communicate. A Health Care Directive can state preferences about life-sustaining treatment, pain management, and other critical medical decisions. This document is vital for farmers and ranchers because it clarifies and guides families and medical providers,

reducing the emotional burden on loved ones during difficult times.

Clearly outlining wishes prevents conflicts and ensures medical preferences are respected.

Limited Liability Limited Partnerships (LLLP) Protects and controls ownership of land. An LLLP is a partnership that offers liability protection to its partners while allowing them to maintain control.

The general partners manage the entity, while the limited partners have an ownership interest but no day-to-day management responsibilities. The general partners and the limited partners are commonly the same individuals.

This structure protects the limited partners’ personal assets from business liabilities and can shield the farm from personal creditors of the partners.

A LLLP can also be an effective tool for transferring farm ownership to the next generation while retaining

AgCountry Online Services

control during a lifetime. Ownership can gradually be transferred without giving up control by gifting or selling limited partnership interests to children or other family members.

This approach helps reduce estate taxes by removing the value of the gifted portion from the estate.

LLLPs can offer tax benefits, including potential discounts for lack of marketability and minority interest. These potential discounts can reduce the overall value of the estate and estate taxes.

A comprehensive estate plan can ensure a smooth transition, protect your assets, minimize taxes, and ensure the wishes for you and your operation are followed.

Consult the AgCountry Succession and Retirement team to devise a customized plan to achieve your goals. Contact your local AgCountry office to learn more.

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Contact Online Services at: 855-402-7849 OnlineServices@AgCountry.com

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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APPRAISALS

AgCountry Benchmarks Continue to Rise The results of AgCountry’s annual benchmark study show real estate values across our marketplace rose by an average of 6% over the last 12 months. North Dakota witnessed the largest average increase at 9.2%.

Wisconsin also saw a large jump at 7%. Minnesota values increased by a modest 2.4%.

The largest factors influencing real estate markets over the last year include favorable 2023 crop yields, strong cash reserves, limited supplies of agricultural land for sale, and stabilized interest rates. The majority of agricultural real estate purchases were made by local farmers and ranchers with minor involvement by

outside investors. Weaker commodity prices and severe weather events may limit future growth in real estate values.

About Our Benchmarks The AgCountry Appraisal team annually evaluates 24 benchmark farms. These farms include 21 dryland crop farms, one irrigated crop farm, one specialty cranberry farm, and one pasture property, which are representative of agriculture across Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. Evaluations are determined based on reported real estate sales.

ND 9.2%

WI

increase from 2023

7%

increase from 2023

MN 2.4% increase from 2023

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APPRAISALS

Cropland $/Acre

Cropland Benchmarks $9,000 $8,000 $7,000 $6,000 $5,000 $4,000 $3,000 $2,000 $1,000 $0 10 Year

5 Year

3 Year

2 Year

1 Year

July 1, 2024

MN Crop Values

$6,153

$4,944

$5, 501

$7,192

$8,328

$8, 529

ND Crop Values

$3, 832

$3, 155

$3, 443

$4,466

$5,648

$6, 166

WI Crop Values

$4,903

$5, 128

$5,307

$5,997

$6,113

$6, 995

Average $ (in thousands)/Total Acre

Average $ (in thousands)/Acre Year Over Year for All Benchmarks

$7 $6 $5 $4 $3 $2 2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

Total $4,516 $4,147 $3,834 $3,733 $3,819 $3,751 $3,789 $4,133 $5,271 $6,213 $6,588

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GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Senator Amy Klobuchar and Rep. Brad Finstad Receive Friend of Farm Credit Awards The AgriBank District Farm Credit Council (ADFCC) has recognized U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representative Brad Finstad of Minnesota as its 2024 Friend of Farm Credit Award recipients.

Klobuchar and Finstad received the awards for their efforts on behalf of American agriculture and rural communities. “The leadership Senator Klobuchar provides as a key member of the Senate Agriculture Committee helps ensure that agriculture and rural communities across the country can continue to thrive,” said Ed Hegland, a farmer from Appleton, Minnesota, and the ADFCC chairman. Ed is also a Board member for AgCountry Farm Credit Services.

margins. Having access to credit can often mean the difference between economic viability and financial hardship,” Klobuchar said.

“It’s an honor to be recognized today. As a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I’ll continue working to strengthen the rural economy by expanding credit opportunities for producers and farmers across the country.”

U.S. Rep. Brad Finstad of Minnesota (left) receives the 2024 Friend of Farm Credit Award from Dan Erickson, a farmer from Alden, Minn., and a Compeer Financial board representative on the ADFCC.

affordable crop insurance protections by extending the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development program eligibility from five to ten years.

“New farmers are essential to ensuring the future of farming and the success Klobuchar co-sponsored the of our food production system, but Producer and Agricultural Credit even under the best of circumstances, Enhancement Act (PACE Act) with starting a farm means taking on a great Senator Hoeven (R-ND), which deal of risk,” Klobuchar said. “Extending updates Farm Service Agency (FSA) direct and guaranteed loan programs. the already successful Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Senators Klobuchar and Thune (Rprogram will provide needed certainty SD) also introduced the bipartisan to farmers as they continue to build Crop Insurance for Future Farmers their farms and grow their businesses.”

“Too many American farmers and Act, which would help beginning producers operate on razor-thin farmers and veterans receive more Dan Erickson, a farmer from Alden, Minnesota, and a Compeer Financial board representative on the ADFCC, presented Finstad with his award.

“We thank Congressman Finstad for the critical leadership he is providing to preserve and support the well-being of agriculture and rural communities across the country. His active role as a member of the House Agriculture Committee and the close connection he has to agriculture L to R: Former AgCountry Board Member Mark Ellison, AgriBank Board Chair Stan make him a leading voice for farmers, Claussen, Compeer Financial CEO Jase Wagner, Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar, ranchers, and rural America.”

AgCountry Board Member Ed Hegland, AgCountry Board Chair Lynn Pietig, and AgCountry Board Member Greg Sabolik.

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GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Legislative Update Written and Published September 2024 by: Howard Olson, SVP Government and Public Affairs, and Andy Martin, Sr Legislative and Public Affairs Officer Farm Bill Update The 2018 Farm Bill was originally scheduled to expire in 2023 but negotiations stalled and Congress extended the bill for an additional year. Progress on the next Farm Bill has been slow and it remains unclear if a new bill will be passed this year or if another extension of the 2018 bill will be required.

However, there was considerable discussion about the need for a new Farm Bill at farm shows and local meetings during the annual August Congressional recess.

The agriculture community remains hopeful that these meetings with constituents and stakeholders will spur action on negotiations and move Congress to complete a new bill sooner rather than later.

The House and Senate returned to session post-Labor Day. However, both bodies are only in session for thirteen days before recessing for all of October. Congress will reconvene again after the election in a lame-duck session. Some Farm Bill discussion will likely take place in September, but it’s unlikely the bill will come to the

floor of either the House or the Senate for debate.

Furthermore, a vote in either body is not expected before the election. The lame-duck session will provide a window of opportunity, but passage of a bill may not happen then either, which would require another Farm Bill extension, to most-likely September 30th, 2025.

Senate Ag Appropriations Sub-Committee Hearing at Grand Farm Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) hosted a U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture hearing at The Grand Farm near Casselton, North Dakota on Thursday, August 15, 2024. Other Senators attending the hearing were Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Senator Tina Smith (D-MN), and Senator John Boozman (R-AR).

The focus of the hearing was ag technology and research.

Testimony was provided by USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small, USDA Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, NDSU Vice-President for Agriculture Dr. Greg Lardy, Grand Farm Founder and CEO Greg Tehven and others.

While the focus was on ag technology, the Farm Bill was mentioned several times and all the Senators agreed that they need to get it completed. All four Senators are on the ag committee and in leadership roles, with either Senator Klobuchar or Senator Boozman in line to be the Senate Ag Committee Chair in the next session staring in January 2025.

Save the Dates!

1-15-25 Willmar, MN

1-23-25 Fargo, ND

Hear from agriculture’s biggest voices by attending an AgFocus Conference near you. Join AgCountry for a day of learning, networking, and plenty of farm talk in Willmar, Minnesota, or Fargo, North Dakota (hybrid experience). These conferences are designed for farmers and ranchers of all experience levels.

Visit AgCountry.com/Events for additional details and registration.

FARM SAFETY

Fall Harvest Safety: Essential Tips for Farmers The fall harvest season is a busy and rewarding time for farmers, bringing with it the culmination of months of hard work. It also presents a unique set of safety challenges that must be addressed to ensure the well-being of everyone involved. From operating heavy machinery to managing long hours in the field, safety should always be a top priority. Here are safety tips to help farmers, agricultural workers, farm owners, and ranchers maintain a safe and efficient harvest season.

SAFETY TIP

#

Maintain the Yard

SAFETY TIP

#

Train Equipment Operators

SAFETY TIP

Prioritize Rest and Manage Fatigue

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A well-maintained farmyard is the first step in ensuring a safe harvest season. Start by removing any low-hanging tree limbs that could interfere with machinery or pose a hazard to workers. Contact your local electrical company if heavy rains have affected your area to address any potential electrical issues. Clutter can get in the way. Try to keep obstacles to a minimum to ensure you have a clear line of sight and reduce the chance of driving into or over an object. You can prevent accidents and keep your focus on the harvest by taking care of these details ahead of time.

The temptation to enlist extra help during the busy harvest season can lead to inviting untrained individuals to operate farm machinery. This quick solution can be extremely dangerous. Ensure that anyone who will be using tractors or other equipment receives proper training. A lack of experience not only increases the risk of injury for the operator but also poses a danger to everyone else on the farm. Comprehensive training sessions are essential for a safe harvest.

The demanding nature of harvest season often results in long hours and physical exhaustion. It is crucial to recognize the risks associated with working while tired.

Fatigue can lead to poor decision-making and shortcuts that may result in accidents.

Prioritize a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and ensure you get adequate rest to keep your energy levels stable. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed.

FARM SAFETY

SAFETY TIP

#

Supervise Young Children

SAFETY TIP

#

Share the Roadway with Motorists

SAFETY TIP

Practice Grain Bin Safety

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Farms are fascinating playgrounds for children, but they can also be dangerous. Keep young children away from tractors and farm equipment and enforce strict safety rules to prevent them from running freely outside while work is underway. Clear communication and supervision are essential to avoid accidents and ensure the safety of all family members during the harvest.

You’ll likely be transporting equipment and harvest loads on public roadways during the fall harvest. It’s essential to share the road safely with other motorists. Ensure all vehicles and machinery are equipped with appropriate reflective markings and lights. Adhere to traffic laws and use designated paths whenever possible to minimize risks to both you and other drivers.

Handling and storing grain can be hazardous, so practice strict safety measures around grain bins. No one should enter a grain bin alone. A solo rescue should not be attempted by an accompanying person if someone becomes trapped. Contact 911 immediately. Evaluate air quality before entering a bin and ensure fall protection harnesses are used and secured to adequate anchorage points to mitigate fall risks.

Safety during the fall harvest season requires careful planning, training, and vigilance. Create a safe work environment and make the most of the harvest season by following these essential tips that prioritize the well-being of yourself and your team. We wish you a safe and successful harvest!

HARVEST

September 2024

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SCHOLARSHIPS

2024 Upperclassmen SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Congratulations to the ten recipients of AgCountry’s Upperclassmen Scholarship!

This year’s recipients are:

Alexis Bopp Stirum, ND

Austin Lang Buffalo Lake, MN

Noah Erickson Cyrus, MN

Pa Tamba Jammeh Fargo, ND

Kinsey Hanson Mayville, ND

Kiley Kvamme Kindred, ND

Braxten Bastian Corvallis, OR

Mary Lewandowski Hatley, WI

Jacob Matyka Rib Lake, WI

Sadie Goettl Berlin, WI

About the Upperclassmen Scholarship Each student must complete 69 credits or more at a college or university to qualify. Students must be studying in an agribusiness, business, or related field of study; and plan on working in production agricultural lending or related agricultural services. Selection is based on academic aptitude, vocational promise, personal attributes, and leadership.

The 2025 AgCountry Upperclassmen Scholarship program will open this fall.

Please visit AgCountry.com/Scholarships for more information.

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HARVEST

September 2024

Advocate.

Support Farm Credit as we champion farmers and rural communities by becoming a Farm Credit advocate.

The Farm Credit Council program is designed to educate Congress on agriculture and types of policies that are important to the success of farmers.

Scan below to sign up or visit FarmCredit.com/TakeAction

Become a Farm Credit Advocate

Signing Up is Easy

TEXT “CREDIT” TO 52886

Text the word CREDIT to 52886, scan the QR code below, or visit FarmCredit.com/TakeAction to sign up.

Farm Credit will only contact you when necessary. The Farm Bill debates continue, and they anticipate relying on Farm Credit advocates to ensure the voices of rural America are heard.

SC AN M E

Help advocate for issues important to Farm Credit’s mission!

FO C USE D O N C RO P I N SU R A N C E . FO C USE D O N YO U.

Help advocate for issues important to Farm Credit’s mission!

Protection when moisture doesn’t add up.

As lawmakers hear from constituents on all sides of every issue, we must raise our voices and stand up for America’s farmers and ranchers.

Signing up is easy. Text the word CREDIT to the phone number 52886 or scan the QR code. You will receive a text message reply with a link. Click on it, add your information Learn how PRF can help your A lack of moisture throughout the and we will contact you only when necessary.

operation by contacting your local year means less grass and forage.

And we anticipate relying on our Farm Credit advocates in 2023 as Congress AgCountry offıce today.

Protect your operation witha anew Pasture, debates Farm Bill.

Rangeland, Forage (PRF) policy from Please join us PRF – and the thousands of other Farm CreditAgCountry.com/Locations advocates – in a team who knows agriculture. standing up forhaying American agriculture and educating Congress about issues provides coverage for perennial important to fulfilling Farm Credit’s mission.

AgCountry is an equal credit opportunity lender and and grazing from 70% to 90%. an equal opportunity provider.

If you have questions, please contact your AgCountry insurance specialist.

FO C USE D O N C ROP IN SUR A N C E. FO C USE D O N YO U.

linkedin.com/company/agcountry-farm-credit-services AgCountry.com @AgCountry

9/30 Forage Production Sales Closing Date 9/30 Grass Seed Sales Closing Date 9/30 Rye Sales Closing Date 9/30 Margin Protection Sales Closing Date 9/30 Wheat Sales Closing Date (MT, SD, WI only) 9/30 Cultivated Wild Rice Sales Closing Date 10/5 Annual Forage Growing Season 2 Acreage Reporting Date 11/5 Annual Forage Growing Season 3 Acreage Reporting Date 11/14 APH Forage Production - Production Reporting Date 11/14 Cultivated Wild Rice Production Reporting Date 11/15 Rye Production Reporting Date 11/15 Wheat Production Reporting Date (MT, SD, WI only) 11/15 Forage Production Acreage Reporting Date 11/15 Fall Forage Seeding Acreage Reporting Date 11/15 Rye Acreage Reporting Date 11/15 Winter Wheat Acreage Reporting Date (MT, SD, WI only) 11/20 Cranberry Sales Closing Date (WI only) 11/20 WFRP Late Year Sales Closing Date 12/1 PRF Sales Closing/Acreage Reporting Date 12/5 Annual Forage Growing Season 4 Acreage Reporting Date

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AgCountry Farm Credit Services P.O. Box 6020 Fargo, ND 58108