Live.Work.Grow. Volume 9 Issue 1

Live. Work. Grow.

Volume 9 Issue 1

ATLANTA · CLINTON · FARMER CITY · MASON CITY www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 1

in this issue Volume 9 Issue 1 4

A Note from Michael Schmidt

5

Terry and David Holtz: Like Father, Like Son

11

Thunder Creek: Safe and Efficient

15

Precision Wisdom: How do Precision Planting

5

Solutions Drive Efficiency?

21

Kent and Dana Weatherby: The Family Behind the Farm

26

Introducing the All-New MacDon FD2 FlexDraper

28

Landoll Tilloll 877: Built for Generations

29

Ag in the Classroom with Amy Hyde

33

Geringhoff: Productivity in All Conditions

35

Takeuchi: Siliskie Land Management

37

Central Illinois Local Foods Spotlight: Ropp

21 29

Jersey Cheese

37 On the Cover Leeper Family Farms harvesting soybeans in Macon County during fall of 2021.

1 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

H

Dawn Irwin, Assistant Marketing Director dirwin@centralilag.com

appy New Year and welcome to 2022! With another year, brings another Live.Work.Grow. magazine that I am continually grateful to have been able to create for you all! Between meeting the Weatherby family in Williamsville, having a great conversation with father and son Terry and David Holtz in Farmer City, heading to Lincoln to catch up with Amy Hyde who was a mentor to me for many years in 4-H, to meeting with Ken Ropp, a fellow dairy farmer in Bloomington, and more, this magazine has taken me all across central Illinois. I am once again excited to share stories about our loyal customers as well as other influential people within our local agriculture community. I hope you enjoy reading as much as I have enjoyed creating this magazine over the past several months - and keep in mind, I am always open to story suggestions for future articles!

F

all 2021 is certainly one to remember!

Harvest began a little differently for me this year as my son, Aric James, was born on August 11th. At twelve days old, one of the first events he attended was our combine clinic!

We really enjoyed hosting an in-person event this year, after some time of having no events due to COVID restrictions.

Abby Miller, Marketing Director amiller@centralilag.com

As always, being in the field taking photos and capturing fall in Central Illinois is one of my favorite things about harvest.

Thank you to everyone who allowed me to visit your fields this year, it is always fun to meet each of you and I look forward to a successful planting season!

Leadership Team:

Brian Reeser - Vice President

Steve Schmidt - Chief Executive Officer

Tim Evans - Chief Financial Officer

Michael Schmidt - President

Abby Miller - Marketing Director

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 2

Locations Atlanta 200 Sharon St. Atlanta, IL 61723 (217) 648-2307

Clinton 1000 State Route 10 E. Clinton, IL 61727 (217) 935-8373

Farmer City 792 U.S. Hwy 150 E. Farmer City, IL 61842 (309) 928-2154

Mason City 130 Tonica St. Mason City, IL 62664 (217) 482-9760

Sales Team Steve Schmidt Atlanta, IL (217) 737-7445 Michael Schmidt Lincoln, IL (217) 737-8669 Brian Reeser Clinton, IL (217) 519-4341 John Coers New Holland, IL (217) 737-5674

Austin Coers New Holland, IL (217) 454-1358 Joe Fisher Petersburg, IL (217) 303-1754 Doug Franzen Farmer City, IL (309) 275-8556 Michael Wheet Heyworth, IL (309) 613-0556 Tyler Williams San Jose, IL (309) 620-3665

3 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

Adam Davis McLean, IL (309) 261-1351 Todd Irwin Kenney, IL (217) 871-9800 Phillip Borgman Villa Grove, IL (217) 816-7146 Jarrett Rohlfs Emden, IL (217) 737-4244

A Note from michael Schmidt President, Central Illinois Ag

W

hat a year!

done the best they can searching for and getting parts on hand as fast as possible to ensure you Just when we were ready to put 2020 behind us, could stay in the field.

2021 came on and surprised us once again with new obstacles to tackle. It took about a year after The low production rate due to supply issues, COVID-19 hit in March 2020 to see its effects and high level of demand for equipment leaves through a major supply shortage from parts to the dealership in a tough spot. We are told how equipment. many months (sometimes a year) out we are on products, but we continue to order and sell what While navigating through this past year, a favorite we can daily. At the end of the day, what matters saying kept coming to mind, “We don’t grow when most, is that we are here for our customers…you things are easy, we grow when we face challenges.” are the Central Illinois Ag family.

And boy, have we faced challenges and continue to do so. But in the same sense we are continuing As always, we wish you a sucessful spring, and we to learn, grow, and thrive from these challenges. are here to help you one way or another.

It takes a team to provide for and support a successful harvest. Our parts team, along with the entire crew, has done a phenomenal job ordering and keeping inventory stocked to have on hand for those spur of the moment breakdowns.

Even though we did have nationwide dealership challenges such as steel and rubber shortages that led to unfortunate surcharges, our parts team has

Michael Schmidt mschmidt@centralilag.com President, Central Illinois Ag @MPSchmidtAg

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 4

Terry and David Holtz

Like Father, Like Son

“T

he family farm means everything to me since I and helping dad,” says David, which is exactly how his started it all,” says Terry Holtz. “Now I just take it passion for farming began. He spent countless days one day at a time and try to keep it in the family.” right beside Terry, riding along in the field, handing him tools, or anything he could do to be included. By the age Terry and David Holtz are a successful father-son duo of eight, he was mowing pastures, and a few years later, who farm around Farmer City, Illinois. They are a prime he was running the field cultivator in the spring. example of a family who has been able to work together to gradually improve their operation, one step at a time. “There was never a doubt in my mind that I wanted to farm, and thankfully, I was allowed the opportunity,” In 1965, Terry began farming on his own with some says David. “It was in my blood and once I got a taste ground he rented in Clinton, Illinois. By 1968, he had of it, I knew I wanted to run equipment and take care made the move to Farmer City where he had some more of the land.” permanent farming opportunities. He has now been in the same area for 53 years and has been able to bring In 1989, David’s wishes came true as he officially joined his son into the operation and turn his first-generation his dad on the farm. To make the operation work for the farm into what it is today. both of them, he always had a second job as well. His hard work over the years has proved his determination As a kid, David loved to be on the farm where they used to keep the farm and help Terry adapt to the many to raise cattle along with corn and soybeans. “Growing technological advancements along the way. up on a farm, you can learn so much just from watching

5 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

Terry describes how far production agriculture has come since he started farming back in the 60s with one simple statement: unbelievable.

During his first couple of years, he had a Farmall 560, a Farmall M, and rented an International 715 combine without a cab. He will never forget being in that combine during harvest of 1967, when he finished harvesting in the snow on December 24th. Needless to say, he is more than grateful for how far machinery has come throughout the years.

“Someone asked me what I thought of our 6130 combine and I told them I wish I had that cab 50 years ago,” says Terry.

David agrees and recognizes that running newer equipment and incorporating current technology has become more of a necessity in modern farming and has certainly been a goal of theirs over the years.

“The advancements in technology have been unbelievable, and you have to stay up on it all the time,” says David. “Every year it continues to change, and it has not stopped and who knows where it will stop.”

He says that having autosteer in the planting tractor and running

a draper head alone have made David’s 13-year-old son Tyler all the difference in efficiency and in the auger cart this fall. productivity in a day’s time. They can get more done in a shorter amount of time without compromising the quality of their crops, and can always rely on Central Illinois Ag’s service and Case IH equipment to help. “Dan Warren and his crew at CIA go above and beyond what it takes to get us up and going as fast as time allows,” says David. “I have never had an issue with red equipment, but it is because of CIA’s service that we have stayed “It is all I have ever done, and I can customers for so long.” only hope to be as successful as my dad has been,” says David. He takes Terry and David believe that having pride in every aspect of the farm from reliable equipment paired with a how the crops look and perform, to dealership that they can trust day doing what is best for his landlords. in and day out, is one of the most However, his biggest responsibility important aspects of having a in his eyes is taking care of the land successful farming operation today. as a means to preserve the farm for Along with that, of course, comes years to come. family. They are proud to have been able to work together through the “We hope to see a third generation years and are excited to incorporate come on to continue what dad started the next generation into the farm, and give them the same opportunity,” David’s daughters Grace and Shelby says David. “Because you don’t want and son Tyler, who started running to see family farms go away.” the auger cart this past harvest. They hope for Tyler to one day follow in their footsteps, but for now, are excited to share their passion for farming with him.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 6

©2020 The Toro Company

AGE YOUR TEAM IN ANY FIELD. MANAGE YOUR TEAM IN ANY FIELD.

gnum™ puts productivity at your fingertips. The all-new cab is designed to provide an operator experience like no other.

Pro 1200 display and AFS Vision Pro operating system to give you a fully connected experience no matter if you’re on r local dealer to see how the AFS Connect Magnum gives you the freedom to farm your way.

The AFS Connect™ Magnum™ puts productivity at your fingertips. The all-new cab is designed to provide an operator experience like no other. a demonstration today! the AFS Pro 1200 display and AFS Vision Pro operating system to give you a fully connected experience no matter if you’re on Plus, it features or off the farm. Visit your local dealer to see how the AFS Connect Magnum gives you the freedom to farm your way.

See your Case IH dealer for a demonstration today!

Central Illinois Ag

200 Sharon St. Atlanta, IL 61723 (217) 648-2307 centralilag.com

All rights reserved. Case IH is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. www.caseih.com

registered in the United States and many other countries, V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. www.caseih.com

7 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

©2020 The Toro

©2020 The Toro Company

UNLEASH U N L EA S H THE BULLS T HE B U L L S

With roots dating back to 1914, Toro was built on a tradition of quality products and caring relationships. Our machines feature the same With roots dating back to 1914, Toro was built on a tradition of quality technology professionals depend on to do the job right the first time, every products and caring relationships. Our machines feature the same time. The result? A beautiful, professional looking lawn from a company technology professionals depend on to do the job right the first time, every whose innovations have been the heart and soul of America’s mowing time. The result? A beautiful, professional looking lawn from a company technology for more than a century. Count on it. whose innovations have been the heart and soul of America’s mowing technology more thanALL a century. onTURN it.

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www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 8

The designed-by-Kinze and built-for-Kinze Blue Vantage display

Blue Vantage Displayeasiest Drive Electric Drive | Blue is the industry’s to use, dedicated planter display. The innovative, clean, and streamlined display provides simple, accurate, and intuitive planter control for high productivity

planting. Factory presets remove the labor and guesswork from The innovative, clean, and streamlined Blue Vantage display setup, while a dedicated planting screen provides all critical providesinformation simple, accurate, and intuitive planter control for high at one glance during planting.

Built-in diagnostics Planting Screen keep troubleshooting easy and efficient. productivity planting. Factory presets remove the labor and Available on the 4905 See behind when coverage data can Active weight transfer guesswork from setup,Field while a dedicated planting screen provides & 4705 front fold, and transporting and view be shared by two or more control if equipped with 3665 & 3505 pivot fold planterinformation functions with up planters equipped with Blue during hydraulic weight transfer all critical at one glance planting.

Built-in planters to four planter-cameras Vantage in the same field and bulk fill scales diagnostics keep troubleshooting easy and efficient.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL KINZE DEALER TO EXPERIENCE TRUE SIMPLICITY

Add up to four cameras Shared field coverage Dealership Name for rear and other views data with other planters Street Address City, State 55555 (555) 555-5555 www.dealershipwebsite.com

Available on 4905, 4705, 3665, & 3505 planters TRUE. BLUE. Advantage.

Kinze.com

EXPERIENCE TRUE SIMPLICITY AT YOUR LOCAL KINZE DEALER

©2021 by Kinze Manufacturing, Inc. All rights reserved.

Dealership Name Central Illinois Ag Street Address 200 Sharon St. Atlanta, IL 61723 City, State 55555 (217) (555)648-2307 555-5555 centralilag.com www.dealershipwebsite.com

9 · Central Ag · www.centralilag.com ©2021 byIllinois Kinze Manufacturing, Inc. All rights reserved.

TRUE. BLUE. Advantage.

Kinze.com

True Speed High Speed Meters True Speed High Speed Meters True Speed High Speed Meters

Accurately plant at speeds from 3–12 mph and plant plant speeds from mph and upAccurately to twiceplant the number of acres in 3–12 a day versus a plant Accurately at at speeds from 3–12 mph and plant up twice the number acres in aseed day versus a conventional meter.

By controlling froma the up to to twice the number of of acres in the a day versus conventional meter. the seed from seed disc to placement in controlling the seedthe trench, precise conventional meter.

ByBy controlling seed from thethe seed disc to placement seed trench, precise singulation seed spacing are achieved regardless seed disc toand placement in in thethe seed trench, precise and seed spacing achieved regardless of singulation seed size,and shape, orspacing coating. singulation seed areare achieved regardless seed size, shape, coating. of of seed size, shape, or or coating.

Single singulator for corn and other crops Single singulator Single singulator for for corn other crops corn andand other crops

True Speed True True electric Speed Speed drive electric electric meter drive drive meter meter Easily replaced long Available on 4905, 4705, lifeEasily wear components andAvailable 3665 on planters replaced long Available on 4905, 4705, Easily replaced long 4905, 4705, wear components andand 3665 planters lifelife wear components 3665 planters

EXPERIENCE TRUE HIGH SPEED AT YOUR LOCAL KINZE DEALER EXPERIENCE TRUE HIGH SPEED YOUR LOCAL KINZE DEALER EXPERIENCE TRUE HIGH SPEED ATAT YOUR LOCAL KINZE DEALER

Dealership Name Street Address Dealership Name Dealership Name Central Illinois Ag City, State 55555

Street Address Street Address 200 Sharon St. (555) 555-5555 City, State 55555 City, State 55555 Atlanta, IL 61723 www.dealershipwebsite.com (217) 648-2307 (555) 555-5555 (555) 555-5555 ©2021 by Kinze Manufacturing, Inc. All rights reserved. centralilag.com

www.dealershipwebsite.com www.dealershipwebsite.com

©2021

by Kinze Manufacturing, Inc. All rights reserved. ©2021

by Kinze Manufacturing, Inc. All rights reserved.

TRUE. BLUE. Advantage.

Kinze.com TRUE. BLUE. Advantage.

TRUE. BLUE. Advantage. www.centralilag.com · Kinze.com Volume 9 Issue 1 10 Kinze.com

Thunder Creek

Safe and Efficient

M

artin Family Farms of Mt. Pulaski, IL is owned and operated by Jeff and Jean Martin, Doug and Erin Martin, & Derek and Renee Martin. Their roots in agriculture go back to 1826, when their family began raising corn and soybeans around central Illinois.

Doug and Derek were raised on the farm, always working with their parents and grandparents. After college, they both returned to the farm to live out their passion for agriculture and keep the family farm growing. As the 7th generation of Martin Family Farms, Doug and Derek take pride in improving their operation by staying on top of cutting-edge technology and modern, innovative farming practices.

they realized their need to upgrade and invest in a reliable fuel trailer, and reached out to Michael Schmidt at Central Illinois Ag about a Thunder Creek. That next morning, Michael had a Thunder Creek FST990 fuel trailer available, so the Martins decided to make it theirs and have not regretted it since.

This harvest was their first season with the Thunder Creek, and they have been impressed with how it has impacted their productivity in the field. Their crew have all enjoyed using the trailer and love how it minimizes down time by only taking five minutes to fill up the combine before getting right back to work.

They can also go a few days before refueling the Thunder Creek, unlike their old trailer which needed In 2020, Doug and Derek saw an refueled every night. opportunity to improve the safety and efficiency of harvest, and found Doug and Derek also agree that it to be a necessary change. In the safety is one of the key features of past, they had been hauling fuel to the Thunder Creek that makes for an and from the field on a homemade easier harvest. During the later weeks trailer as a convenient way to get by of harvest when they are working in throughout the season. After harvest, the dark more often, the LED lights

11 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

are a great addition. Additionally, the enclosure of the trailer front to back keeps supplies clean and makes transportation safer all around. “As much as we travel, haul fuel, and have to fill up in the dark, the FST990 has really paid off to have,” says Doug.

They also note how useful it is to have the DEF system, air compressor, welder, and generator available at all times and have gotten a lot of use out of this harvest season. “We use every aspect of this trailer,” says Derek.

“Time is a huge deal when farming and it definitely saves us time each day.”

The Martins are proud Thunder Creek customers and have continued to recommend the trailer to neighbors and friends who have asked about theirs, noting that the value is worth it. “Farmers typically make big purchases and don’t like to spend on smaller tools,” says Doug. “But after having the Thunder Creek, we have realized that it makes a difference to spend on the little things.”

Thunder Creek trailers save you time and money when it matters most.

As a Premier Thunder Creek Dealer, Central Illinois Ag is ready with inventory in stock to help you cut downtime during planting and harvest.

Join the Thunder Creek Family

Call 217.648.2307 for more information about units in stock today.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 12

Finish Planting Finish Planting BeforePlanting It Rains Finish Before It Rains Before It Rains

Most planting seasons have weather challenges that make it difficult to plant all your fields in ideal Most planting seasons have weather challenges conditions. SpeedTube is a seed delivery system that make it difficult to plant all your fields in ideal that allows you to double your planting speed Most plantingSpeedTube seasons have weather challenges conditions. is a seed delivery system without sacrificing performance. You’ll have a that make it difficult to plant all your fields in that allows you to double your planting ideal speed sense of accomplishment when the rain comes conditions.

SpeedTubeperformance. is a seed delivery without sacrificing You’llsystem have a and your planter is already back in the shed. that allows you to double your sense of accomplishment whenplanting the rain speed comes without sacrificing have a and your planter is performance. already back inYou’ll the shed.

It’s stressful to be sitting in the shop and hear sense of accomplishment when the rain comes the rain on the roof and know that you still have It’syour stressful sittingback in the shop and hear and plantertoisbe already in the shed. acres to plant. Worse yet, you know that the the rain on the roof and know that you still have next time you get a chance to plant might be in It’s stressful to beWorse sittingyet, in the hear acres to plant. youshop knowand that the poor conditions because the calendar says you the raintime on the knowto that youmight still have next you roof get aand chance plant be in are behind. That will cost you yield. You need a acres plant. Worse yet,the youcalendar know that poor to conditions because saysthe you planter that lets you plant the acres each day that next youThat get awill chance to plant be in a are time behind. cost you yield.might You need you want to, not that your planter limits you to. poor conditions says planter that letsbecause you plantthe thecalendar acres each dayyou that are behind.

That will cost you yield.

You need you want to, not that your planter limits you to. a planter that lets you plant the acres each day that you want to, not that your planter limits you to.

Accuracy At Any Speed Accuracy AttoAny SpeedTube is the key allowingSpeed your planter to plant more acres per day, accurately. SpeedTube SpeedTube is theAt key to allowing your planter to Accuracy ensures that seed Any spacing Speed is maintained,

plant more acres per day, accurately. SpeedTube regardless of how fast you plant. Want to double SpeedTube is the seed key to spacing allowing your planter to ensures that is maintained, your current planter speed? Go ahead, SpeedTube plant more acres perfast day,you accurately.

SpeedTube regardless of how plant. Want to double will ensure that your seeds are planted just ensures thatplanter seed speed? spacing is maintained, your current Go ahead, SpeedTube as accurately as they would have been at half regardless of how plant. are Wantplanted to double will ensure that fast youryouseeds just the speed. your planter speed?

Go ahead, SpeedTube as current accurately as they would have been at half will the ensure speed. that your seeds are planted just SpeedTube pairs with other Precision Planting as accurately as they would have been at half products to create a high speed planter that SpeedTube pairs with other Precision Planting the speed. gives you a great stand regardless of speed. products to create a high speed planter that Remove the speed limit from your planter by SpeedTube withstand otherregardless Precision of Planting gives you pairs a great speed. adding speedtube. products to create a high speed planter thatby Remove the speed limit from your planter gives you a great stand regardless of speed. adding speedtube.

Remove the speed limit from your planter by adding speedtube.

13 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

precisionplanting.com/speedtube

precisionplanting.com/speedtube precisionplanting.com/speedtube

OUR TAGLINE SAYS IT ALL

APPAREL AND MERCHANDISE

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www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 14

Precision Wisdom:

How Do Precision Planting Solutions Drive Efficiency?

Y

ou don’t have to be a precision philosopher to up your efficiency game next spring. To break down how Precision Planting® products can make the most of your time in the field, Case IH caught up with expert Chris Ehman, marketing manager for Precision Solutions & Telematics at Case IH Aftermarket Solutions.

Q: First, what should producers know about adding Precision Planting solutions to their planters?

C.E.: Precision Planting solutions — such as vDrive®, DeltaForce® and SpeedTube® — are great ways to customize and upgrade the planter you already own, no matter the color. If you’re looking to improve your planter’s performance next year, your local Case IH Premier Certified Dealer is an ideal one-stop shop to find the best solution to increase your yield potential.

Q: Planting windows can be tight. How do Precision Planting solutions help growers work and plant more efficiently?

C.E.: As precision technologies are becoming more advanced, they deliver simple ways to help you plant more precisely. Not only do these solutions — such as the Precision Planting vDrive system — reduce consumption and waste but they can also reduce your inputs and increase yield to help you be more profitable.

Plus, as growers try to fit more acres into each planting window, Precision Planting solutions can help reduce operator fatigue and increase productivity in the field.

It’s also important to remember that precision

15 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

technology isn’t one-size-fits-all. Working with your local Premier Certified Dealer is the key to determining the best customizable, scalable solutions for your planter and farm.

Q: Earlier you mentioned the vDrive system from Precision Planting. Tell us about this solution and how it can reduce inputs while driving yield.

C.E.: vDrive from Precision Planting is a simple way to control the meter system for your planter and ensure even, consistent plant emergence. Although mechanical drive systems often require costly and time-consuming maintenance, vDrive offers a maintenance-free solution to breeze through planting and save seed. vDrive helps growers drive efficiency and save on input costs in a few other ways. First, the vDrive system controls each row of your planter individually to precisely execute variable rate prescriptions. With this solution, each row of the planter can change population independently, rather than all rows planting the same population.

Plus, vDrive allows the seed and insecticide meter to turn off at a boundary or where you have already planted to minimize overlaps. Second, vDrive can help you achieve the correct seed population around curves.

When you plant around a curve with a typical drive system, the population on each row varies because the inside row units of the planter are traveling slower than the outside row units, resulting in a large variation in population. With vDrive on your planter, each meter automatically adjusts to match the speed of that row unit. This means that yield loss from wide population variances is no longer an issue.

Q: When it comes to upgrading a planter, ROI is top of mind. How can producers maximize planter investments?

C.E.: There are tons of options out there for planter upgrades — but one of the best investments that’s going to yield the best ROI is precision. If you’re interested in upgrading your planter, I always recommend contacting your local Case IH Premier Certified Dealer. They’re specifically trained to understand and support Precision Planting products to help you find the best solution for your operation and budget, no matter what color planter you run. Precision Planting solutions give you the ability to retrofit an older planter to improve performance and maintain accuracy for the seasons ahead. Plus, there’s nothing more valuable than the peace of mind that precision solutions can bring during planting season. The Precision Planting DeltaForce® system is one example of a surefire, yet simple, solution that can help ensure all seeds are planted at the correct depth in any conditions for even, consistent emergence and higher yields.

Q: Especially in tight planting windows, growers increasingly need reliable ways to ensure even, consistent crop emergence. How can precision solutions help achieve that?

C.E.: Growers know well that no 2 inches of their fields are the same — especially in less-than-ideal conditions.

Variability in fields exists, whether it’s different soil types, moisture or compaction. That’s why when setting your downforce airbag or spring, one single setting is not going to match conditions across the entire field.

The reality is that too little downforce can result in lateemerging plants, and too much downforce can cause compaction and yield loss. That’s where a precision downforce solution, such as DeltaForce, comes in. It precisely and automatically adjusts downforce across the changing conditions of your fields.

downforce — even across the variation of a field.

Q: Most planting seasons have weather challenges that make it difficult to plant in ideal conditions. How can investing in precision solutions help growers tackle tight planting windows?

C.E.: We know that seed singulation and spacing are key drivers for yield, particularly in corn. Planting too fast can cause row units to bounce, seeds to bounce in the seed tube, inconsistent seed spacing — resulting in a poor stand. Case IH Premier Certified Dealers offer solutions such as SpeedTube to help cover more acres accurately. Upgrading your current planter with precision solutions is a smart choice to hit your ideal planting window and maximize ROI. Q: Talk about the Precision Planting SpeedTube solution and how it works.

C.E.: SpeedTube helps ensure accuracy at higher speeds because the seeds are controlled all the way from the vSet® meter to the ground. If there is row unit bounce, it doesn’t affect seed spacing because the seeds are contained within a flighted belt, keeping them in place. When seeds are under control, speed can be increased to 10 mph without sacrificing performance.

It’s important to note that SpeedTube is one component of a high-speed planting system. Combined with additional precision solutions including DeltaForce® down force control and vSet seed metering, you can ensure that as speed increases, accuracy remains the same.

Q: Looking into your crystal ball, how do you envision precision and technology impacting productivity on operations in the future?

C.E.: I believe precision will be an essential part of every operation in the future. With a shrinking workforce and increasing yield demands, planting windows aren’t getting any longer — so operations Q: How does DeltaForce work, and how can it simplify are starting to require smart and effective solutions planting? to up productivity. That’s also why data will play an C.E.: DeltaForce is an automated row-by-row control increasingly important role in decision-making and system that measures and adjusts downforce every ensuring operations remain profitable. time there is variability in your field. It processes weight data from every row 200 times per second so it The precision experts at your local Premier Certified can respond to changing soil conditions in a fraction of Dealer can help you determine the best upgrades for a second. DeltaForce replaces the springs or airbags on your planter and plant confidently next spring. your current planter with hydraulic cylinders and load cells to measure how much weight is being carried. The operator sets the desired weight for the gauge wheels, and DeltaForce does the rest to maintain consistent

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 16

PRO-TILL

®

HIGH PERFORMANCE TILLAGE

WET OR DRY. SPRING OR FALL. WORK IN THE MOST CHALLENGING CONDITIONS. This is Pro-Till by Degelman. The fastest and most versatile piece of tillage equipment you will ever own, Pro-Till shreds heavy fall residue, opens up spring fields, levels ruts, destroys clods and produces an absolutely perfect seed bed.

The Pro-Till shreds residue at speeds over 10 mph, up to three times the speed of traditional cultivators, while ensuring uniform distribution of residue to eliminate problems such as uneven and delayed emergence, hair pinning, erosion and seeder/planter plugging.

Pro-Till is High Speed, High Performance Tillage.

ENGINEERED TOUGH www.degelman.com

17 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

THE

RIGHT VIEW

Single Auger 1012 • 1112 • 1312 • 1412

Double Auger 1432

Ease of Use for Operator

Eliminates Twisting & Turning The biggest benefit of a right-side auger is that it makes unloading easier and more comfortable. Tractors are designed with controls and monitors on the right side of the cab. Compared to a traditional left-side auger grain cart, putting the auger on the right side makes it much easier to watch the grain cart unload, use the tractor controls and track monitors at the same time. This reduces the risk for mistakes especially during stressful moments and greatly diminishes the amount of twisting and turning while operating the grain cart.

Ultimate Visibility

Superior Forward Reach Provides Clearer View of Unload Auger J&M’s X-Tended Reach augers provide the best combination of upward, outward and forward reach.

Combine that with the added convenience of an auger on the right side, and the result is a grain cart that is easier to unload than any in the history of farming.

Tractor Seat Swivel

Tractors Seats Swivel More to the Right Tractor seats swivel more to the right than the left. Some tractors swivel up to 32° more to the right making it easier to turn your seat instead of your body to see the auger.

Atlanta Clinton Farmer City Mason City

Mike Hoerbert

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 11-19-2021 18

J&M Manufacturing Co, Inc • 284 Railroad Street • Fort Recovery, Ohio 45846 • (419) 375-2376 • www.jm-inc.com • sales@jm-inc.com

19 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com For a complete product line, visit www.rhinoag.com

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P.O. Box 357 • Kalida, Ohio 45853 • (419) 532.3121 • unverferth.com www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 20 P.O. Box 357 • Kalida, Ohio 45853 • (419) 532.3121 • unverferth.com

The Family behind the Farm Kent and Dana Weatherby

T

o Kent and Dana Weatherby, the farm family was always instilled in us as kids to work together until lifestyle is all they have ever known. From being the job was done and we didn’t question it.” raised on multi-generation farms to building their own together, they cannot imagine any other way of life.

Growing up, Dana was always eager to chip in wherever she was needed, between driving a Farmall M tractor Dana grew up near Spaulding, IL helping out around spraying corn, running the combine, and helping their corn and soybean farm with her two younger build their new machine shed. She also spent countless sisters and her parents, Fred and Judy Kramer. Dana summers walking beans with her sisters while their grew up watching the successful partnership between father jokingly sang old songs to keep them entertained. her parents as they farmed with one another throughout their lives.

Seeing her mother be so active on the farm gave her the desire to pursue a career in agriculture and farm “My family was very hands-on and always did it alongside her own family one day. ourselves no matter what the job was,” says Dana. “It

21 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

Close to where he and Dana live today, Kent also grew up on his family’s farm in Fancy Prairie, IL with his younger sisters and parents, Kenneth and Erna Weatherby. Kent was destined to be a farmer ever since his father had him riding along in their open, 2 row combine when Kent was just a baby.

“We always wanted our boys to have that same lifestyle of growing up working alongside their parents as we did,” says Dana. “It was good for them to be a part of the operation and develop the work ethic that comes with it.”

With their children older now, farming has become more of a family affair with everyone pitching in, especially during the fall. “Harvest is always the highlight,” says Kent. “Now more than ever, we look forward to harvest because it brings us all together again and we get to spend more time working alongside each other every Similar to Dana, Kent always knew he wanted to farm day,” Dana adds. for a living, so when they got married during their last year at the University of Illinois, they began to build the The best part to Kent and Dana, however, is still having life they had envisioned for themselves together. their parents around the family farm as well. “Our kids got to grow up riding along with Grandpa and now they During finals week, just before graduation in 1988, Kent get to have grandpa ride along with them,” says Dana. and Dana rented their first farm together in Cantrall. It is special to them to get to share this lifestyle and In the years following, they farmed with Kent’s father passion for agriculture between generations. and gradually added their own ground. Today they raise corn and soybeans in parts of Sangamon, Menard, and Logan County and still continue to farm that first field in Cantrall which started it all.

As he grew up, he became more involved baling hay, doing mechanical work on equipment, and helping raise their cattle and hogs. He and his sisters also raised show calves as their 4-H projects each summer.

Dana is grateful to have had her family as a great example while she and Kent have worked to build their operation. “I have seen over the years the commitment my parents and grandparents have shown to the farm, and somehow always made it work,” says Dana. “It shows us that with the ups and downs of farming, you are always in it for the long haul”.

Her parents farmed together until they were 80 years old and decided to retire. Around the same time, Luke Weatherby, Kent and Dana’s son began to farm with them full time. Their other sons, Adam, Cole, and Jacob are also heavily involved and always have been throughout their childhood.

Kenneth and Luke

Another tradition that has been shared from generation to generation, is their love for red equipment. Kent grew up with International Harvester equipment along with some Oliver tractors. He remembers the first red combine on the farm was a 1440 when he was a kid.

Dana’s family has always had red equipment, so together she and Kent continue to be loyal to Case IH today with the help of Central Illinois Ag. “We are familiar with Case IH and the combine has always been known for being efficient,” says Dana. “I can’t imagine we would ever switch.”

Luke and Kent

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 22

“Central Illinois Ag has put such huge efforts into customer service,” Kent adds. “Our salesman Austin Coers and the mechanics have been so attentive, and we have to give them credit for helping us as much as they have, it is worth a lot.”

Kent and Dana have seen first-hand the improvements in Case IH equipment and technology that have come about since they were kids. The increased efficiency, productivity, and communication alone has made a huge difference, and they are hopeful to gradually keep improving their operation for generations to come.

“Our ancestors have worked tirelessly for generations to build up their farms, keep them together, and pass on to the next generation,” says Dana. “We are not doing this just to earn a living, but to pass it down and build upon what previous generations have given us as a foundation.”

Kent and Dana Weatherby

23 Luke, · Central AgErna, · www.centralilag.com Jacob, Kent,Illinois Kenneth, Judy, Fred, Dana, and Cole

EVERY FIELD IS YOUR FIELD. The new AFS Connect™ Steiger® puts power and productivity at your fingertips. The all-new cab is designed to provide for maximized comfort and connectivity. And with the all new AFS Pro 1200 display and AFS Vision Pro operating system, you get the full AFS Connect experience no matter if you’re on or off the farm. Visit your local dealer to see how the AFS Connect Steiger gives you the freedom to farm your way.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 24

25 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

GET ready for MORE!

The FD2 FlexDraper® is the evolution of the ground following innovation MacDon first brought to market almost 20 years ago. Like we did then, we listen to and work with you, the farmer, in the most challenging real-world conditions. What does that mean for you? More. More sizes, more durability, more harvesting innovations. So, in case you’re not convinced yet, here are a few more reasons why the FD2 is the right investment for your operation!

BIGGER! 20% MORE capacity

High Volume Heads-First Feeding.

The FD2’s all-new frame features an ultra-deep deck with 50 inch deep drapers and is now available in 30 to 50 foot configurations. The FD2 delivers up to 20%* more capacity of smooth heads-first feeding in the tallest bushiest crops it can get its reel fingers on. No matter what type of * combine you mount it to, the FeedMaxTM Crop Feeding System optimizes performance. Along with active crop flow, patented reel movement, and new ShatterGuard reel positioning, the FD2 is ready for action.

fastER! 30% MORE speed

Cut Cleaner. Cut Faster. Cut More.

MacDon’s ClearCutTM High-Speed Cutting System delivers just that; clean cutting at up to 30% faster speeds*. Helping you get there is MacDon’s improved knife drive with more power and new knife section geometry with 25% more cutting surface. A smooth close shave comes from two * unique ClearCut Knife Guards; choose between Pointed Knife Guards or PlugFree™ Knife Guards that resist plugging even in the nastiest conditions.

flexieR! 70% MORE FLEX

A Ground Following Dream.

MacDon’s legendary ground-following ability continues with the FD2.

MacDon’s Active Float System gets coupled with up to 70%* more flex for a harvesting experience like no other. Flex-Float Technology® gets turned up * with MacDon’s optional ContourMaxTM Contour Wheels. These wheels allow the header to follow the field’s contours, leaving a consistent stubble height while cutting from 1 to 18 inches off the ground.

Get More with the MacDon FD2 FlexDraper® FD2.MacDon.com *Compared to previous model.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 26

®

AG PRODUCTS From The COMPANY Who Knows You BEST! m

7500 Series VT Plus

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27 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com Landoll Company, LLC • Marysville, Kansas

Brillion Till ‘N Seed®

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usband and wife, Casey and Sharon Jones of Lincoln, Illinois are no strangers to working as a family when it comes to farming. Casey grew up on a dairy farm in Chestnut, Illinois working with his parents, Bill and Carol Jones. He fed calves, milked cows, and always had an interest in the agriculture industry. Similarly, Sharon grew up on her family’s grain farm raising pigs for 4-H projects, building fence, and tagging along with her parents, Vernon and Janet Klockenga, in the field.

She had a passion for childcare, but eventually decided she wanted to be outside and farm with her family for a living.

tilloll 877: Built for Generations The Landoll Tilloll has been their goto for spring tillage for several years now, and the Joneses have continued to rely on Central Illinois Ag to fulfill their tillage needs. Since they work all of their ground, Casey says that with other tools, they would have to work ground two, sometimes three times before planting but with the Landoll, it is one and done.

They have also been more than happy with the support they have received from Landoll Territory Manager, Jake Ralph, who was in the field helping them get going last spring. “Having Jake out made all the difference in the world with how it ran,” says Casey.

“When someone is willing to come out to the farm and help get us going, that is worth gold.”

With Rachael working ground the past few years, however, they noticed some challenges with getting their Landoll adjusted to field conditions. Casey would have to stop what he was doing to meet her in the field she was in and set it for her which was not convenient and slowed them down in the spring.

They also had issues with bearings and spacers, seeing the need to upgrade to the Landoll 877.

They agree that how the machine performs is most important, but having a rep who is hands-on, knows the tool inside and out, and knows what your operation needs, adds so much value to the product and reflects on the company as a whole.

“This way of life is so nice, being able to work with family and work outside,” says Sharon. “The best feeling is when you can look right behind you in the tractor and see all you have accomplished in a day.”

Since upgrading in 2020, they have been impressed with all the improvements Sharon began faming with her parents made to the tool. The main benefits are and grandparents in 1987 and is the the heavier built frame on the 877 and fourth generation in the family to carry the finer adjustments that can be made. it on. After they were married, Casey “The updates make it much easier to ® worked at a feed mill for 27 years, before run,” says Casey. “It just takes a couple having the opportunity to join the farm cranks, check your depth, and go.” with Sharon about nine years ago.

“It is very user-friendly,” Sharon agrees.

Today, they farm with Vernon and their “The 877 made it nicer for Rachael daughter, Rachael Welker, who recently to make her own adjustments in the joined them full time. In the spring field.” Now, Rachael is able to raise you can find Vernon planting, Rachael and lower the 877 with ease when working ground, Casey spraying, and moving between different fields, which Sharon running chemicals and seed to has impacted time management and the field. increased efficiency.

ion Till ‘N Seed

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They have recommended the 877 to many farmers in the area and are excited to keep it on the farm for many years, as they hope to continue passing the farm down for generations to come.

“This farm has been a great opportunity for us,” says Sharon. “We can say this is what our grandparents did, this is what we get to do, and our kids can now be a part of it too.”

Casey and Sharon Jones

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 28

Amy Hyde

Women In Ag H

Ag in the Classroom

With Amy Hyde

ere in the heart of Illinois, we are surrounded by agriculture. With the various crops and livestock we see all around us, it would be easy to assume that Logan County youth would be familiar with the industry. However, for most elementary-aged children, agriculture education has not been a part of their curriculum in the classroom, that is until Amy Hyde stepped into the picture.

Growing up, Amy was always involved in 4-H, which she believes to have had an influence on where she is today. After high school, she went to work at the Clinton Power Station for 17 years before hearing about a Logan County Extension job. Amy had always loved working with children and had a desire to teach one day, so when a colleague reached out to her about a 4-H Community Worker position, she could not wait to get started.

Amy Hyde is the current 4-H Youth and Development Program Coordinator and the County Ag Literacy In that position, she saw a need for agriculture Coordinator with Ag in the Classroom, but her roots education in the community, so one of her goals became to begin an Ag in the Classroom program. The in agriculture go back for generations.

USDA established Ag in the Classroom back in 1981 She grew up on a family farm in Macon County with to implement agriculture education to schools’ existing her parents and two older sisters. She always enjoyed curriculum to enhance ag literacy. Today, it has become helping around the farm, took many trips to the a national program with representation in each state implement store with her dad, and often walked beans throughout K-12 classrooms. with her sisters when they were not in school. Her dad’s family farm was started back in 1867, and her mom’s “The introduction to agriculture is very important,” in 1851, which they still have in the family today and says Amy. “We take for granted how much we learn growing up on a farm, because so many kids have Amy hopes her grandchildren will want to continue. never been exposed to ag, which is unfortunate to see.”

29 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

Eventually in 2013, her hard work of advocating for ag education paid off and the Illinois Farm Bureau and Illinois Extension came together to implement the Ag in the Classroom program in Logan County.

Today, Amy visits 10 elementary schools in Logan county each month throughout the school year where she teaches about 1,000 students from kindergarten to sixth grade.

She chooses a new ag topic each month to build her lesson plans around that range from crops and livestock to wool and cotton. Her students also love the seasonal topics such as Christmas trees, pumpkins, or animals at the fair.

After 19 years of teaching through this program, Amy is still shocked at what little knowledge today’s youth have about basic agricultural concepts. “I believe our whole community needs more ag education for different reasons,” says Amy. “When I go into schools, I notice students have very limited exposure to where their food comes from or about the corn and soybean fields surrounding Lincoln.”

Although it is disappointing to see, this only ignites her passion even more to reach as many children as she can to connect them to agriculture and build upon her lessons, so that they get the most out of her time in the classroom.

Over the years, she has noticed that

the best way to engage her students is through fun, hands-on STEM activities as simple as watching seeds grow or with a fun twist such as making pumpkin catapults. No matter the topic, they are able to have fun while learning and building other skills, which is what truly matters to Amy. “I love to see their enthusiasm,” she says. “Through AITC, kids love the hands-on learning experiences and are proud of what they can teach others, which builds leadership skills.”

In addition, Amy hopes that her lessons help the students to connect agriculture to the real world and to see what vast opportunities are out there for them within the industry.

“These students love science, and agriculture is a perfect example of how science can create advances in crop production and more effective farm practices to help produce more food.”

Over the past several years, Amy has added Teen Teachers to her Ag in the Classroom program to expand her reach in the community even more. This allows for high school age 4-H members create their own lesson plans and teach a few of her classes throughout the year. Not only does it build upon the 4-H members’ community service and communication skills, but also gives the children more people in agriculture to look up to and learn from.

When Amy talks about her career within ag education, her passion for what she does is evident, and to see the children’s excitement on their faces when she walks into their classroom is priceless. It is the students that keep her going each day and wanting to continue enhancing the program for years to come. “Seeing these children excited to learn about ag and seeing that I am having an impact on them is the most rewarding part,” says Amy. She recognizes the need for more educators in ag, and to those interested, offers one piece of advice: “Go for it; there are so many career opportunities in agriculture, and we need the next generation to get involved and make a difference.”

Teen Teachers milk a cow activity

Students making pumpkin catapults

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 30

A lot of thought goes into a seed bag. But at Case IH, we put a lot of thought into your seedbed. We use Agronomic Design™ principles to develop a system of soil management tools that help optimize everything from nutrient access to water infiltration. These higher-quality seedbeds, when paired with Case IH planting solutions, will give your plants a better start. Which is more than can be said for a paper bag.

Get to know why your seedbed drives productivity at caseih.com/soilmanagement.

lot of thought goes into bag. a seed But at IH, awelotput lot of thought into your seedbed.

A lot of Athought goes into a seed Butbag. at Case IH,Case we put of athought into your seedbed.

We use We use ™ Agronomic™Design principles to develop a of system of soil management tools that help optimize everything Agronomic principles to develop a system soil management help optimize A lotDesign of thought goes into a seed bag.

But at Case IH, we put atools lot ofthat thought into your everything seedbed. We use from nutrient access toinfiltration. water infiltration.

These higher-quality seedbeds, when with pairedCase withIHCase IH from nutrient access to water These higher-quality seedbeds, when paired ™ Agronomic Design principles to develop a system of soil management tools that help optimize everything planting solutions, give your aplants betterWhich start. is Which more than be said for abag. paper bag. plantingfrom solutions, willaccess givewill your plants betterastart. moreisthan can be can said forpaired a paper nutrient to water infiltration.

These higher-quality seedbeds, when with Case IH Get to know why your seedbed drives productivity at caseih.com/soilmanagement.

Get to know whysolutions, your seedbed drives productivity at caseih.com/soilmanagement. planting will give your plants a better start. Which is more than can be said for a paper bag.

Get to know why your SEE seedbed productivity at caseih.com/soilmanagement.

USdrives TODAY!

Dealer Name 1 Dealer Name 2 Dealer Address 1 Dealer Address 2 City, State Zip

000.000.0000 www.dealer_url.com

SEETODAY! US TODAY! SEE US SEE US TODAY! Dealer All rights reserved. Case IH is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries,Dealer NameName 1 1 owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. www.caseih.com 31 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com Dealer Dealer 2 NameName 2 1 Dealer Address 1 Dealer Address 1 Name Dealer 2

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AgDirect is an equipment financing program offered by Farm Credit Services www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 32 of America and other participating Farm Credit System Institutions with lease financing provided by Farm Credit Leasing Services Corporation.

AgDirect is an equipment financing program offered by Farm Credit Services AgDirect is an equipment financing program offered

by Farm Credit Services of America and other participating Farm Credit System Institutions with lease AgDirect is an equipment financing program offered

by Farm Credit Services offinancing America and otherbyparticipating Credit System Institutions with lease provided Farm Credit Farm Leasing Services Corporation. offinancing Americaprovided and other participating Farm Credit System Institutions with lease

by Farm Credit Leasing Services Corporation. financing provided by Farm Credit Leasing Services Corporation.

PRODUCTIVITY IN ALL CONDITIONS

D

enny Uphoff of Beason, Illinois has been involved in farming for most of his life. He grew up in Peoria county as the third generation on his family’s grain and dairy farm.

From a young age, he milked cows, baled hay, walked beans, and helped out wherever he could.

Years later, he decided to take a different route by going to school for engineering. However, he did not let go of farming completely as he continued working for a local famer in the area while in school.

Denny received a degree in electrical engineering technology and worked in the industry for two years, before marrying his wife Nancy.

Once he and Nancy were married, Nancy’s father, Bob Drake, asked him to farm with he and his brother, Dave Drake. He was excited for the opportunity and began farming fulltime in 1979 on the farm that Bob and Dave began in Logan county back in 1946.

and equipment when the need arises. snouts, along with how well it tears up corn stalks. However, one of the Denny has been a Central Illinois Ag main features that was a selling point customer since he bought his first was the corn sweeper. “We have piece of equipment from Richard had downed corn in the past, so the Schmidt in 1979. Over the years, sweeper is a nice addition to the corn he has always been able to count head, should we ever need it,” says on the dealership for local service Denny. and parts, and with the help of his salesman, Todd Irwin, can find the The corn sweeper is part of right equipment for his operation.

Geringhoff ’s Integrated Crop Flow System, along with the end row After last fall, Denny and Harold augers which aid in crop flow. The were not happy with the performance sweeper is specifically included of their corn head or the amount to help harvest downed corn with of maintenance it required. They ease. In case unfavorable weather began looking into a Geringhoff during harvest leads to poor field after hearing great reports from conditions, the sweeper is there to fellow farmers in the area, and increase harvest speed, increase therefore decided to purchase one yield, and boost overall efficiency. for themselves in hopes of correcting It is a feature that Denny hopes he the issues they faced with their last will not need, but is pleased to have head. it to ensure a productive harvest no matter the conditions.

This past fall was their first year running their Geringhoff NorthStar Denny Uphoff 830 corn head. Since getting it set and adjusted to their field conditions, they have been impressed with the job it has done. According to Denny, it simply works as it should and works better than what they had been using in the past.

Today, Denny owns the farm with and works alongside Harold Drake, Dave’s son, with the help of their neighbors and friends, Greg Reinhardt and Jim Brown. Denny and Harold take pride in building upon their family farm More specifically, he likes the by incorporating new technology adjustability of the head and the

33 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

Geringhoff.com www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 34 Geringhoff.com Geringhoff.com

Luke Siliskie

L

Siliskie Land Management

uke Siliskie of Mackinaw, IL grew up with a passion The work Luke does each day calls for reliable equipment for working outdoors and has been able to turn it that he is confident will get the job done, which is why into a rewarding job. he chooses Takeuchi. “I have operated almost every other manufacturer of equipment over the years, and Luke was always exposed to the forestry industry, as have always been more impressed with the Takeuchis he had family members who worked for the Illinois than the others,” he says. Luke currently operates a Department of Natural Resources as well as the U of Takeuchi TL12R2 Track Loader. It has the power and I Forestry Office, which kickstarted his appeal for that maneuverability he needs and has been an essential part type of career. Over time, he developed the skill for of his efficiency on the job. doing home improvement projects around his family’s property and found that he enjoyed that type of hands- When beginning his business, he chose to buy local and on work and wanted to pursue it. purchased the machine from his friend and Central Illinois Ag salesman Adam Davis. “When you buy Over the past several years, Luke had been doing quality equipment you don’t have to worry about seeing various land improvement projects for family members, your dealer too much, but Adam is always checking in friends, and local landowners in the area. Eventually, in with me to make sure everything is going well,” says September of 2020, Luke decided to turn this passion Luke. of his into a business venture and started Siliskie Land Management.

Today, Luke still owns and operates Siliskie Land Management Inc. on his own and is grateful for the size Today, with the help of his Takeuchi skid steer, and a of his small business, which he believes preserves the few mulchers and attachments, Luke does a variety of family atmosphere and allows him to build relationships projects for his clients. On the agriculture side, he clears with each of his customers. It is extremely rewarding to field edges and fence rows for farmers. He also removes him each time he gets to customize a unique property hanging tree limbs and encroaching vegetation that and bring the landowner’s vision to life. competes with crops for sunlight and moisture.

“I have always been able to look at a property and Additionally, he does quite a bit of work in forested visualize how it could look with certain changes or areas. “I can open up overgrown timber tracks from improvements,” says Luke. “When the landowner sees undesirable species or invasive species so that the natural these improvements carried out for the first time and vegetation and even the marketable timber can thrive sees how they can benefit them moving forward, it is and become healthier,” says Luke. He also frequently such an enjoyable process to be a part of.” clears out brush to create trails through properties for hiking, riding, access to other areas, and property line maintenance.

35 · Central Illinois Ag · www.centralilag.com

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 36

Central Illinois Local Foods Spotlight Ken Ropp

Ropp

Jersey Cheese

T

he Ropp family of Bloomington, Illinois has been milking Jersey cows on their farm since the mid 1800s. Today, sixth generation farmer, Ken Ropp, son of Ray and Carol Ropp, manages the grain and dairy farm with the help of 11 employees.

Although their journey through these difficult times in the dairy industry has not been easy, their perseverance has led to the sucessful business and farm they have today.

After graduating from the University of Illinois in 1993, Ken went to work in sales, but always wanted to eventually return to the dairy. In 2000, he was able to join a partnership with his parents, Ray and Carol, just as milk prices were at a record high.

However, just six months later, prices reached a devastating low, leaving the Ropp family with some crucial decisions to make to determine the future of their operation.

In most sectors of agriculture, including the dairy industry, it can be difficult for small family farms to compete with larger, commercial operations. “Inputs are constantly going up and on the dairy side of things, we have been at the same low milk prices for so long,” says Ken. “Illinois only has about 400 dairy farms left, and unfortunately that number is going to keep going down.”

Ray and Ken felt that the only way for their operation to survive in today’s market was to develop a niche within the farm to set them apart. Not long after, Ken visited the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin and saw a cheese trailer demonstration, which used milk from the cows on the fairgrounds to make cheese. He had never made cheese before, but Ken began to contemplate if it was a possibility for their farm.

After much thought and with no other local cheese operations nearby to learn from or compare to, they took the risk anyway.

“We had to adapt as a business and as a family to the wants and needs of customers,” says Ken. They became the first local cheese operation in the area by starting Ropp Jersey Cheese and had made their first blocks of cheddar by 2006.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 37

In the years since, their operation has flourished. Today, their products are sold in 240 additional locations beyond their store on the farm, including grocery stores, markets, restaurants, Illinois wineries, and even at University of Illinois basketball and football games.

Two days later, the program became official and they wanted to buy 5,000 half-pound blocks of cheese per week. Soon after, the Chicago food pantries got on board and the order went up to 95,000 blocks per week. Ken and a few Wisconsin dairy farmers worked together to meet this demand from May of 2020 to With the help of his part-time and full-time employees, May of 2021.

Ken currently milks 68 registered Jersey cows each day. All of the milk their cows produce, besides a small Although he says we have not seen the full effects portion that is fed to young calves, is put towards of COVID yet, they are very fortunate for this cheese production, which allows them to produce unexpected outcome. “To say that it was a blessing around 2,000 to 3,000 pounds of cheese per week. is an understatement,” says Ken. “All of a sudden we had a new customer base that we would have never Fortunately for the Ropps, Jerseys have an advantage dreamed of.” over other breeds of dairy cattle when it comes to cheese production. Jerseys are known for having a The Ropp family believes that their new and returning higher percentage of butterfat in their milk than any customers are the reason their operation has become other breed. Generally, ten pounds of milk equals what it is today, and that their transparency is what one pound of cheese, but with Jersey milk, only eight their customers appreciate. “I think that more than pounds are needed to make one pound of cheese. ever, consumers want to know who their producers are and be able to see the origin of their products,” says A typical day at Ropp Jersey Cheese begins at 4:30 with Ken. “We are happy to offer that to our customers.” morning milking. The milk goes directly into a bulk tank where it gets cooled, before going through the Visitors are always welcome onto the farm to see firsthigh-temperature short-time (HTST) pasteurization hand where their products come from and are able to system. From there, it gets put into the make vat, which speak directly to the farmers who make it happen. “It holds 525 gallons of milk, where the solids and liquids means a lot to our customers that they can talk directly begin to separate into curds and whey with continuous to Ray and I and can come out any day to see cheese mixing, or harping. When the curds begin to harden, being made,” says Ken. “They know we are here and they will then add salt and flavoring to get the desired hopefully we are here for a long time to come.” product and by 1:00 p.m., they have cheddar cheese.

Ken is grateful to help bridge that gap between They sell blocks of common cheeses, as well as flavored producers and consumers while being able to provide cheeses in store such as smoked gouda, green onion central Illinois with a trusted, local product. “Our cheddar, habanero cheddar, and their original soft customers know they can call any time, and that we spread. However, a large portion of their sales are white stand behind our product,” says Ken. “What we hope cheddar cheese curds sold to local restaurants, which to continue as a family is to still put a face with our was going well until COVID hit and posed a huge threat product and have constant contact with the customer.” to their business once again. “In the blink of an eye, we lost 50% of our business,” says Ken. “I remember milking cows with Dad that morning wondering again if the farm could survive this.”

Their sales in grocery stores picked up but did not make up for what they lost overnight in sales to wineries and restaurants. Just as Ken was wondering how they would recover from this hit, he got a phone call from the president of Central Illinois Produce who was working with the USDA on supplying local food pantries.

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www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 39

growing for

generations Consider a gift of grain.

A gift of grain is a unique way to make a charitable gift to Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital. You can make a grain gift by simply designating ALMH— Foundation as the recipient of bushels of grain at any local elevator.

Your gift will allow you to avoid the sale of the commodity as income, thus rendering tax savings.

Please consider a gift of grain. Your generosity will help ensure quality local healthcare for generations.

To learn more about charitable gifts, please call 217–605–5006.

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 40

182–0457

06/22/21

200 Stahlhut Dr. Lincoln, IL 62656 ALMH.org/Foundation

photo Gallery

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 41

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 42

200 Sharon Street Atlanta, IL 61723

www.centralilag.com

www.centralilag.com · Volume 9 Issue 1 43