March - April 2021 Round Up

THE

CO-OP

Country Round Up A Paper for, and about, country people

Editor’s Note - Annual Meeting

2

Boundary County Summer Classes

4

Annual meeting will be a little different this year

See what the Extension Office has planned

Idaho Master Naturalists

5

Fearful, Anxious Horseback Riders

6

Registrations are now being accepted

Samantha Harvey explores the reasons

Ag - News Idaho Ag News

7

Weed of the Month: St. Johnswort

11

New Poatao Variety Coming

Chase tells us how to deal with this woody weed

Gardeners Corner

14

The Will to Live

16

The Eye for the Future

17

School Gardens a Priority

Dr. Duebendorfer shares some thoughts

Hannah brings another story from the Museum

Recipes for the Season

18

The Great Outdoors

21

Identity Theft

22

Real Estate and You

23

Soup and bread is always a winner

Ideas to get your blood moving this spring

Judy Baird shares some cautions

7BTV is a proud supporter of the Panida Theater.

We’re in this together, Sandpoint.

The beautiful historic Panida Theater has served as an anchor of stability and a beacon of hope throughout Bonner County history, providing a gathering place that enriches the community - both culturally and economically.

While we are practicing social distancing guidelines to curb the spread of the virus, it’s important to remember the uphill battle for our nonprofit organizations.

As our community comes together, the Panida Theater also needs our help to keep the heart of our community beating and stable during this dark time.

Please show your love and support for the Panida through gift certificates, financial contributions, and memberships. These are a few ways we can help.

Please visit www.panida.org/support for more information.

7BTV 208-263-7288 105 S. 3rd Ave., Sandpoint, ID 83864

ERCWSS Postal Customer

Jim Haynes real estate news

OUR COMMUNITY

Presorted Std. U.S Postage PAID Spokane, WA Permit #7

March / April 2021 125 Tibbetts Lane Ponderay, ID 83852 coopgasandsupply.com

2

From the Editor

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

Things Are Going to Be a Little Different This Year by Kathy Osborne

For the last 85 years the CO-OP Gas & Supply Company has enjoyed a wonderful cooperative relationship with the community including farmers, 4-H and FFA members, homemakers and other businesses. And each year we have celebrated this relationship with a party - Country Spirit Day in conjunction with the Cooperative’s Annual Business meeting.

In 2020, with the advent of COVID-19 and one of the worst winter weather days of the season, with blizzard conditions and power outages, we had to cancel the event. With COVID, mask mandates and a continuing concern for our community’s health and wellbeing, the Annual Meeting this year will be different.

If you take a look at the announcement adjacent you will see that for the first time only VOTING MEMBERS will be allowed to attend this meeting. Further, it will not take place at the store as in the past, but at the new Propane & Marketing Annex to the south of the store.

Also new this year, we will not be hosting the annual Country Spirit Day celebration in March but will move it to a better time of the year so everyone can be outside instead to allow for better social distancing recommendations. Look for that date in the May CO-OP Country Round Up publication. We are kind of excited about this change and expect it to be as much fun and as educational as it has been in the past!

In this edition you will find plenty of articles about rural living, fish and wildlife health endeavors, gardening and a great article from the museum about potatoes! Make sure you check that out on page 17.

We also have some great ideas over on page 21 on how to get outside and get our blood moving after the long winter sleep.

George’s Annual Tree sale will be on April 30th. You can find out more about what we plan to have in store on our website coopgasandsupply.com. You can also see the list on page 20 of this publication.

As we wait for things to get back to normal it will look a little different a bit longer. And at The CO-OP we really do believe we are in this together and for the long haul.

When you walk into your historic home or place of work, do you get the sense that the space is full of memories and stories?

NOTICE • NOTICE • NOTICE

The CO-OP Gas & Supply Co., Inc. Of Ponderay, Idaho will hold its 86 th Annual meeting of the voting membership

Saturday March 13, 2021 At The CO-OP Gas & Supply Company Propane & Marketing Annex 1201 Fontaine Dr. Ponderay, Idaho beginning at 9:30 AM. The purpose of this meeting is to elect 2 directors for the term of 3 years and any other business that may come properly before this assembly.

Attendance of the Annual Meeting is limited to VOTING MEMBERS ONLY.

CO-OP Gas & Supply Co., Inc. Liz Robinson, Secretary On-line meeting viewing instructions can be found at coopgasandsupply.com

Want to learn more about the of your building?

Soul

Older buildings are full of history.

Whether you want to sleuth for the stories yourself or leave it to our property researchers, we're here for you at the

BONNER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY &

MUSEUM

HISTORY CREATING COMMUNITY

Schedule a research appointment at the Museum by calling 208-263-2344, or send your inquiry to info@bonnercountyhistory.org. We look forward to telling you more about our research services.

Proven Track Record at Keeping Propane Prices Low

CO-OP Gas & Supply Company has been your locally owned and operated propane company since 2000. Our outstanding customer service and attention to reasonable pricing has set us apart from all other propane companies in the area.

If you are looking for a new propane company to supply all your propane needs at home, the office or on the farm now is the time to give us a call!

CO-OP Gas & Supply Company provides propane service to all of Bonner and Boundary Counties.

1201 Fontaine Drive Ponderay, Idaho

208.263.3338 www.coopgasandsupply.org



Budget Pay is only available to home-owners after one year of continuous service



Is a calculated monthly payment based on annual estimated usage



Program runs from May to May



Program is recalculated in April

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The goal of this program is to have the full amount of the purchased propane paid by April 20th of the following year.

4

Bits and Pieces

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

Winter/Spring 2021 Extension Classes

All classes will be held at the Boundary County Extension Office, unless otherwise noted. Pre-registration required. Contact the Boundary County Extension Office to register: 208-267-3235.

Fruit Tree Pruning, $5 Wednesday, March 10, 1-4pm Pruning your fruit trees is best when trees are dormant, before the buds break. In this class we will discuss essential winter pruning to promote healthy, productive, and easier harvests for both young and mature fruit trees. You will also learn about dormant sprays (these are safe, oil-based protectant sprays) to protect your trees from pests during the growing months. We will start in the classroom, then do hands-on instruction at the Community Garden located on the grounds of Trinity Lutheran Church.

Ten Acres and a Dream, FreeFridays, March 12, 19 & 26, 9amnoon Online only In this 3-part virtual course, you will learn how to realize your homesteading dreams with plenty of resources on topics including forestry fundamentals, permaculture, land evaluation, crop production, fruit production, and raising livestock. A panel of producers will share their experiences and answer your questions. Sign up at CultivatingSuccess.org/land-stewardship.

Plan the Garden, Preserve the Harvest, FREE Wednesday, March 24, 3:30-5pm Via Zoom Learn how to plan out your garden, so you are prepared when it’s time to plant! This class will also cover harvesting and safely preserving your garden. Research-based recommendations will be shared for preparing a great garden and also consuming it! There will be opportunities to ask questions, so you are ready to plant, grow, harvest, and store your garden’s bounty! To register, email amrobertson@uidaho.edu or jenjensen@uidaho.edu.

Build Your Own Hoophouse for Season Extension, $5 Wednesday, March 24, 1-3pm In this class, you’ll learn how to build a simple hoophouse using cattle panels and greenhouse plastic for around $300. Proper ventilation and air flow will also be covered. Simple plans will be provided. Participants will have the option to visit two hoophouses at the GROW Community Garden, located on the grounds of Trinity Lutheran Church.

Waterbath Canning, $10 Monday, March 29, 1-4pm Learn how to safely make and preserve your own high-acid foods including jams, jellies, tomato products, pickled vegetables, and fruits.

This hands-on class will also teach participants about canning basics as well as proper storage and handling of home canned foods. Each participant will make their own jar of Blueberry-Lemon Jam which they can pick up the day after the class.

Making Safe Drinking Water in Emergency Situations, $5 Wednesday, March 31, 1-2:30pm In this class we will cover various methods of producing safe drinking water from potentially contaminated sources. These methods (topics) will include heat treatment, chemical treatment, and filtration.

We will also have a discussion on emergency water storage options.

Organic Pest Control Methods for Orchards and Gardens, $5 Wednesday, April 7, 1-3pm There are an increasing number of safe, effective products for controlling pests and disease in your garden and in your orchard. In this class, we will learn about both standard organic choices and new products, such as Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a natural occurring, soil-borne bacteria that has been used since the 1950s for natural insect control.

Integrating Fungus in Your Garden, $5 Friday, May 7, 1-4pm Come and learn how Boundary County resident Tony Klinkhammer has integrated mushroom production into his garden. This class will focus on planting King Straphoria mushrooms around your fruit trees and vegetable plants. Students will receive mushroom spawn to start a small bed in their garden.

Freeze Drying Class, $10 Thursday, May 13, 3pm-4:30pm Want to learn about freeze dryers designed for home use? This is the class for you! During this class you will learn about the various freeze dryer models, purchasing and maintenance costs, how to operate a freeze dryer, and proper storage of freeze-dried goods. You will be given the opportunity to see how to prep food and begin the freeze drying process. We will also be sampling a variety of freezedried foods.

Food Handlers Course, FREE Mondays, May 17 & 24, 9am-2pm Do you work in the food industry or have a job that involves cooking for others? Take our class and receive your Idaho Food Handlers Card. This 2-day class will be held at the Boundary County Extension Office on Mondays, March 17th & 24th from 9:00 AM to 2:00

A good story sticks with you.

So do your financial decisions.

As you close the books on this year, you know your choices are shaping your financial future. Let us help you make the best decisions for you and your family.

Call me today to discuss year-end financial strategies that could benefit you now and for years to come.

Kendon Perry 302 Main St Sandpoint, ID 208.265.5895 kendonperryid.fbfsagents.com

Securities & services offered through FBL Marketing Services, LLC,+ 5400 University Ave., West Des Moines, IA 50266, 877/860-2904, Member SIPC. Advisory services offered through FBL Wealth Management, LLC.+ Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Idaho/Pocatello, ID. Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company+*/West Des Moines, IA. +Affiliates. *Company provider of Farm Bureau Financial Services. PR-WMA-A (10-20)

Fermentation: Sauerkraut and Other Veggies, $10 Monday, April 19, 1-3pm Learn the basics of fermenting foods for preserving the harvest and enhancing the nutritional value, healthfulness, and digestibility of foods. As part of this hands-on class, you’ll take home a jar on its way to fermented goodness!

UI Extension Sheep and Goat Weekly Webinar: UI Extension offers weekly webinars on sheep and goat topics on Thursdays at 11:30pm. Follow them on Facebook @UISheepandGoats for the current schedule of topics.

UI Extension Beef Cattle Webinar: Every other Wednesday at 11am PST / 12pm MST UI Extension offers webinars on Beef Cattle topics every other Wednesday at 11:00am. Follow them on Facebook.com/UIBeef for the current schedule of topics.

Check our website for current classes and our newsletter: https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/boundary For all things ag, check our blog: BoundaryAgBlog.wordpress. com

Then and Now

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

5

The Idaho Master Naturalists are now accepting registration for the class of 2021.

The local Pend Oreille Chapter will begin classes on March 26, 2021. Anyone with a love of the outdoors and an interest in volunteering to actively work toward stewardship of Idaho’s natural environment is invited to join. All physical abilities and interests are encouraged. The first year consists of 40 hours of instruction, plus 40 hours of volunteering. They are both very easy to fit into your schedule.

Beside the amazing classes that our Education Chair puts together, we accept many other groups educational opportunities also.

This year will be structured a little differently. Most of the classes will be done via Zoom, with amazing (socially distanced) field trips interspersed. In September, the Pend Oreille Chapter has the honor of hosting the statewide biennial Master Naturalist Rendezvous. It will be based out of the Sandpoint Organic Agriculture Center (SOAC). It is 2 ½ days of interesting classes, field trips and meeting Idaho Master Naturalists (IMN) from all over Idaho, there are 7 other chapters.

A mainstay for volunteering is the Waterlife Discovery Center (WDC) in Sagle, or the ‘old fish hatchery’. Idaho Fish and Game owns this treasured property and the IMN are docents for the grounds and hatchery manager’s home in the summer. The community partnered with IDFG and many local organizations in the 1990’s to make this property a wetland and aquatic discovery area. A visitor will find interpretive signage, a wetland trail and the former manager’s home has been remodeled into a science center. Kids and parents will learn something new with each visit. Last summer in trying times, the IMN kept the WDC running by utilizing a large outdoor porch, social distancing and only one family unit at a time looking over the exhibits. Besides these exhibits, the outdoor areas are beautiful, a perfect place to bring a picnic lunch on the Pend Oreille River. The outdoor runs of the hatchery are still used in the spring as a holding facility for trout being distributed to area lakes. In the spring, field trips are held at the WDC with many IMN helping.

The Pend Oreille Chapter has volunteered thousands of hours in this area, 2700 hours in 2020. Volunteer hours come from Habitat Stewardship, like Clark Fork Delta and the Bees to Bears project in Boundary County. Or Conservation Education, field trips and leading guided hikes, are two examples. Citizen Science is also a volunteer opportunity with past examples being a Bumble Bee Study, Idaho Amphibian Study and Bio-Blitz participation. These are just a few of the many volunteer opportunities with IDFG or other local organizations that the IMN have Memorandum of Understandings with.

In addition, there is an exciting event coming to Bonner County this spring.

City Nature Challenge 2021: Bonner County, ID April 30, 2021 – May 3, 2021

This is very easy to participate in, rewarding and informative. For detailed information check the CNCBC facebook page and follow the link to their website. To quote from the website, “The City Nature Challenge is a friendly collaboration aimed at documenting global diversity while fostering a greater awareness and appreciation for nature.”

With an iphone and the inaturalist app anyone in Bonner County can join in. If you have the inclination to join the Idaho Master Naturalists, we would love to meet you and share in our mutual love of nature.

6

Rural Life

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021

Fearful, Anxious, and Concerned Horseback Riders by Samantha Harvey

This can be a sensitive topic for horseback riders who face a variety of challenges in unwanted scenarios with their horse. Irrelevant of being a novice, experienced, or a returning rider, or if they have taken up the sport later in life, multiple factors can limit the enjoyment of time spent with the horse.

The #1 concern I hear is the fear of getting hurt.

The #2 concern is the worry as to what might happen during interactions with the horse.

The #3 concern is the overwhelming emotional flooding that sabotages the rider’s progression and enjoyment.

Irrelevant to the chosen riding discipline, whether a competitive or pleasure rider, equine enthusiasts are often burdened with negative emotional flooding. These emotions include Anxiety, Anticipation, Apprehension, Concern, Defensiveness, Doubt, Fear, Mistrust, Nervousness, Panic, Self-shaming, Worry, and Unease.

These emotions are often a catalyst in what I call Trigger Thoughts or the unhelpful beliefs that hinder the rider’s clarity before interactions with the horse. Fear of falling off of the horse. Fear of getting hurt when the horse responds unexpectedly. Concern, even if the horse is not behaving badly. Fixating on a previous scary experience with the horse. Mental exhaustion after a short ride. Expressing fear even when “nothing” has happened. General nervousness at the thought of riding.

The rider’s Trigger Thoughts also lead to what I call Mind-Set Mayhem. These are the counteractive non-committal thoughts influencing passive, reactive, or after-the-fact critique of the horse. This can create insecurity and defensiveness in both the equine and human.

Patterns of mentally rushing through scenarios with the horse to avoid potentially concerning moments. Mentally checking-out and leaving it up to the horse to “handle” a scenario. Bullying oneself to “power through” the ride. Fixating on other riders, which then adds to their concern. Self-critique and self-shaming towards their fears.

A rider’s past physical experiences with the horse can also contribute to the future domino effect of Triggering Thoughts and Mind-Set Mayhem. Their experiences may include: *Misunderstanding horse behavior and the connection between his thoughts, emotions, and the physical behaviors that follow. Lack of correlation between thought and behavior may create anticipation in the rider with the horse’s behavior often seeming to be “all of a sudden.” *Lack of balance in the saddle. Enthusiasts can ride for years without having body awareness. It may seem odd, but many folks are sitting “on” the saddle (like a sack of potatoes) rather than “in” the saddle (in sync with the horse’s movement.) I encourage riders to first find, then learn how to remain, centered in the saddle. Often due to ill-fitting tack, and/or because of the lack of understanding of the biomechanics required to remain centered while riding, causes riders to ineffectively/unintentionally communicate with the horse because of deficient independent aids. (The ability to use one body part to communicate with the horse without another also moving- i.e. seat, leg, hand, energy, etc.) The imbalance in the saddle limits the rider’s quality, timing, and clarity of communication with the horse. It also contributes to fatigue due to constant “compensation” as their muscles continually grip in an attempt to “hold on.” *Lack of consistent breathing. When a rider is distracted, anticipative, or fearful, their breath shortens, causing tension throughout their body. This leads to an “immobility” or lack of independent aids, which affects their balance, energy adaptability, their mental clarity to stay present during the ride, and their perception of time.

What can riders do to change their experience and enjoyment of the time spent with their horse? First, they need to recognize (without self-critique) their undesired emotions, patterns in their mental triggers, and the root cause(s) of mental fixation on potential negative outcomes.

Second, rather than addressing the symptom, riders need to discover and address the root cause(s). Skill-sets need to include: understanding horse behavior (i.e. not filtering what they see in a horse’s behavior with human emotions, learning to recognize the source not the symptom of behavior, and believing the horse,) increasing and refining their usage of the mechanics and specificity of how/what/ when they are communicating with the horse. They also must raise their awareness of their energy and balance in their body. Addressing refining the quality of the communication with the horse also boosts the rider’s confidence. This helps them learn to think through various scenarios rather than solely “surviving” the ride.

The emotional perceptions of the rider affect influence the quality of the experience. It can build or diminish the stress and confidence levels in both the human and horse. I suggest the ride “begins” when considering riding, and to practice becoming letting go of mental dis-

Volume 21 Issuue 3

distractions to improve being focused when in the presence of the horse.

It takes intention, patience with oneself, and time to change one’s mindset. Having a “support system” can increase the likelihood of making long-term, positive, and lasting transformations. Seeking the guidance of a quality, non-ego based equine professional can help address and improve the rider’s skill-set and understanding of the horse. This will help eliminate overwhelming and debilitating reactive riding behaviors replacing them with pro-active decision making. This contributes to building the foundation of a respectful equine partnership based on clear, supportive, and specific communication.

Offering Alternative Horsemanship with Samantha Harvey, for 17 years Sam has been based from May through October at The Equestrian Center, LLC, located just 12 miles north of Sandpoint, ID. For over 25 years she has offered lessons, training, guest lectured, demos and clinics nationally. She works with students and horse of all levels and disciplines. For more information please visit www.learnhorses.com 208-265-2644

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Ag News

7

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

New Potato Variety, Rainier Russet, Poised for Release

By John O’Connell Intermountain Farm and Ranch

Two new potato varieties with ties to USDA’s Agricultural Research Service in Aberdeen are poised to be released soon by the Tri-State Potato Research and Breeding Program.

The initial cross for Rainier Russet was made at the Small Grains and Potato Germplasm Research center in Aberdeen. Oregon State University chose to retain the cross and advance it through its program and will be the lead institution behind the release, anticipated to occur later this year.

Rich Novy, the USDA-ARS potato breeder in Aberdeen, believes Rainier will be well suited for both the fresh and processed potato markets. It’s a cross of Canela Russet and an Aberdeen breeding clone.

Novy said Rainier has good cold-sweetening resistance, meaning sugar levels don’t tend to rise much in cold storage. Potatoes with high sugar content fry darker and aren’t ideal for processing.

Fresh pack sheds should like its attractive appearance, nice shape and its lack of growth cracks or tuber bumps. Another major attribute is its high yield of marketable U.S. No. 1 tubers, Novy said.

It also has a lengthy tuber dormancy, which refers to the length of time that it can be stored before producing sprouts.

Novy said Rainier was evaluated by other partners in Idaho, Oregon and Washington before moving on to the Western Regional Trials, which also include programs in California, Colorado and Texas.

He said Rainier has been raised in North Dakota, and certified seed is available to interested parties for expansion.

The second variety poised for release — NDA050237B-1R — is a vibrant, red clone that was crossed in North Dakota. The Aberdeen program, however, selected this specialty potato to be retained and advanced through the process.

Novy said certified seed is available, and it will likely be named and released later this year or early next year.

Novy explained that North Dakota and Aberdeen share extra seedling tubers from their programs.

“It’s got a really nice, deep-red skin color,” Novy said, adding it also yields a high percentage of medium-sized tubers, which are desirable in the specialty category.

The new, red potato has garnered strong interest in Klamath Falls, Ore., as well as in Michigan, Novy said. It’s medium to late in its maturation.

Higher Wages Means Higher Food Prices BOISE--Farmers must pay H-2A workers more in 2021, that according to a new report from the Department of Agriculture. The Farm Labor Survey sets the minimum wage farmers must pay H-2A workers.

It’s Known as the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, The Farm Bureaus Braden Jensen follows H2A issues: “So what we’ve heard is that AEWR for 2021 will be $14.55 that’s up from last year’s $13.62 cents that’s approximately a seven-percent and a dollar increase. Obviously, this will be a significant increase for our producers as far as the cost of production, the labor aspect.

We are still on the tail-end of this pandemic. We are still seeing the markets settle. It will be interesting to see how it affects our producers going forward,” said Jensen.

The Adverse Effect Wage Rate is usually published in November, but a policy change delayed the announcement and up went wages.

“What we saw from the last administration, were efforts to improve the AEWR process and how they gather that information through the surveys, through the USDA, but a court struck those provisions down. That meant USDA had to reissue the survey, collect that information, and so we’re only just now getting that survey data out,” said Jensen The new rate goes into effect immediately. Whether farmers will need to issue back pay for wages earned before the announcement has yet to be determined. Jensen says the 2021 increase follows five years of increases.

“So we are still unaware of all the different factors that are playing into the higher wage, but that’s something we are going to look at, but nonetheless looking at the wage here in Idaho, at $14.55 cents, again nearly a dollar increase from last year,” said Jensen.

And higher wages mean higher food prices in 2021. https://www.idahofb.org/News-Media/2021/02/h2a-wages-up-in21

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Local Foods, Producers, and Services and Where To Find Them The following farms can all be found in your neighborhood. If you find  something that really interests you or you want to sign up for a CSA (Community Support Agriculture) call the farmer or visit your local Farmers Market and start eating local. Also, visit www.localharvest.org and post your  farm for others to see what you produce. 

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ABC Farmers Market (Athol, ID): Fridays 2pm-6pm Opening May, ending sometime in Oct. Located at the Athol City Park. Follow them on Face book @ABCFarmersMerket Angela and Millie (Sandpoint, ID): Goat milk and Cheese 208-263-3343 or 208-610-0694

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Annie’s Orchard (Clark Fork, ID): Landscaping/ Nursery Products- Terry and Carol Chowning 208-266-1245 anniesorchard.com

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Black Ridge Trading Post & Gardens (Priest River, ID): Hatching eggs ,Free Range eggs, All Natural goat milk soaps & lotions, Organic  soups & spices, and over 3000 varieties of Iris’s and Daylilies– Barry and Lana Peterson 208-265-0585

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Bella’s Barn (Bonners Ferry, ID): Creamery, Raw Jersey Milk, Yogurt, Raw Butter, Butter Milk– Bob Peterson 208-263-8208 Karyn Sullivan 208-304-  7201 peterson71@yahoo.com

Greentree Naturals (Sandpoint, ID): CSA, Farm Stand, Certified Organic Farm, Fresh Produce, Flowers, Garlic, Herbs, Hops, Organic Gardening Workshops - Diane Green 208-263-8957 www.greentreenaturals.com Hoot Owl Farm (Libby, MT): Locally grown Vegetables and Herbs. Libby and Troy Farmers Markets & CSA. Rudy and Bonnie Geber, 406-3185339, info@hootowlfarm.net, hootowlfarm.net McKerracher Family Farms (Careywood, ID): Pastured Poultry, Market Garden, and Bedding Plants – Julie McKerracher 208-818-0208 also find them at the ABC Farmers Market Mountain Glen Farm, LLC (Sagle, ID): All things poultry from duck & chicken eggs to hatchling & pullet services. Bee Hive construction & maintenance, honey extracting and seasonal honey sales- Susan & Bob Lesniewski 208-255-7818, www.mtglenfarm.com Moose Meadow Farm (Clark Fork, ID): Certified Organic Fresh Produce, CSA Subscription 2018 spots available. Free choice & Weekly deliveries.

— Katherine Creswell & Spencer Nietmann 208-304-6492 moosemeadoworganic@gmail.com moosemeadoworganic.com Naturally Good Things (Libby, MT): Health Food, Bulk Foods, Supplements, Spices, and Local Raw Honey– Georgina Powers 406-293-6771

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Bill’s Berries (Laclede, ID): U-Pick and Pre-picked Blueberries—208-263-  8982

Pack River Yaks (Sandpoint, ID): Yak Meat & Fiber—Christine Stoneham 208-263-4785

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Bonners Ferry Farmers Market (Bonners Ferry, ID): 8am-1pm Saturday at the City Parking Lot

Queen Bee Honey (Clark Fork, ID): Raw Honey– Andrea & Kelly Cope 208-597-5433

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Bristow Country Gardens (Sagle, ID): Fresh Produce & Flowers (while in  season)- Garry and Susan Bristow 208-290-8642 & 208-263-4224

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Byrum Family Farms (Hayden, ID): Pasture Chickens, Heritage Turkeys, Eggs– Paris & Jonathan Byrum 208-664-9793

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Cascade Creek Farm (Bonners Ferry, ID): Grass fed Beef, Pasture Poultry – Rob & Mimi Fueling www.cascadecreekfarm.com  Celestial Natural Farms (Careywood, ID): Eggs, Rabbits, Heritage Turkeys, Goats, Fresh Goats Milk, Goat Milk Products, Beauty Products made with organic &natural ingredients– Celeste Ricci 208-610-9289 Feeds locally grown & non gmo feeds, also become a friend of the farm on Facebook (Celestial Natural Farms) and by email Celstialnaturalfarms@yahoo.com

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Clear Skies Sheep Company (Bonners Ferry, ID): Lamb, Pigs, Beef, Eggs–  Lou & Marva Maring 208-267-6107 find them on Facebook and www.clearskiessheepcompany.com Deerfield Farms (Sagle, ID): Over 20 varieties of certified organic tomatoes, including 16 heirloom varieties– Jerry and Susan Petrina 208-9466113

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T&T Farm (Priest River, ID): Fresh Produce, Pepper Plant Starts, Raspberries, Goat Milk Caramel Sauce, Goat Milk Soap and Cheese– Vickie and Darwin Tenney 208-448-2414 and also find them at the Sandpoint Farmers Market

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Four Peas Family Farm (Priest River, ID): Herbal Tonics, Tinctures, Raw Milk Goat Cheese, Raw Wool & Yarn, Handmade Crafts & Toys– Jim and Kim DesJarlais 208-597-0644 fourpeasfamilyfarm@gmail.com 

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 Good Shepard Lamb Co. (Bonners Ferry, ID): Fresh naturally grown lamb, no hormones or antibiotics– Gordon and Marlene Stanley 208-267 -5882 can also find them at the Sandpoint Farmers Market 

Granite Lakes Goats (Libby, MT): Goat meat, Highland Cows & Beef, Chicken, Eggs– Amy Hughes 406-293-8957

Sacred Earth Farm (Sandpoint, ID): Vegetables, and Bedding Plants– Martinson & Higgens 208-263-7647

Sandpoint Farmers Market: 9am-1pm Saturdays and 3pm-5:30 Wednesdays, May - October. Located at Farmin Park on 3rd and Main. www.sandpointfarmersmarket.com

Farm to Market Store & Bakery/Deli (Libby, MT): Produce & Meat (Seasonal) - Leona Mast 406-293-9775 hours Mon-Sat 9am-6pm

God’s Little Acre (Careywood, ID): All Natural Grass Fed Beef, Berkshire Pigs, Free Range Chickens, Heritage Turkeys & Fresh Eggs– Susan Bourguigon 208-683-2907 or 208-659-6270 Must place order a head of time for Chickens and Turkeys

Riley Creek Farms (Laclede, ID): Blueberries, Jam, Vinegars, Vegetables, Raspberries, and Strawberries– Stan Urmann 208-263-4114 stanurmann@yahoo.com

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Red Wheelbarrow Produce (Sandpoint, ID): Naturally Grown Produce in Selle Valley, and Plant Starts– Emily Levine 208-265-2689 Can be found at the Sandpoint Farmers Market and Winter Ridge www.redwheelbarrow.com

Shingle Mill Blueberry Farm (Sandpoint, ID) 488 Shingle Mill Road Blueberry Products: Fresh Berries, we-pick/you-pick; Jams & jellies 208-946-3295 Fred and Patty Omodt.

Double Shoe Ranch (Dover, ID): Katahdin Lambs pasture raised– Randy and Gail Curless 208-263-4633

Four Seasons Farm (Priest River, ID): CSA, Produce, Pasture Pork, Fresh Eggs, Chicken, Goat, and Turkey– Ron and Toni Carey 208-255-9193

Raven Rock Ranch (Libby, MT): Grass Fed Beef, and Farm Fresh Eggs– Georgine Powers 406-293-6771 also sold at Naturally Good Things

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Rams Head Orchards (Evans, WA): Lamb sold by full or half (Must order ahead of time call for more info), Premium Lamb Burger $9.50/lb (While Supplies Lasts) – Lisa and Mike Whytock 208-818-7825 or 509-684-5425

White Dove Ent. (Athol, ID): Poultry Processing—18 years experience (By appointment only, call for more info.) Non-GMO Grass Fed Beef, Non-GMO Chickens & Turkeys for your freezer (Must order ahead of time, call for more info.) Round Bales of Grass hay, Oat hay, and Straw– Mike & Misty Heuett 208-660-5375 mmheuett Woods Meats (Sandpoint, ID): Inspected locally grown natural beef – 208-263-3077 The Plant Sale (Priest River, ID): Old Fashioned Perennials, House Plants Pots, Hanging Baskets & Vegetables. 208-448-2464 (ask for Donna) Cloud Eleven Mountain Farm LLC (Moyie Springs, ID) Local Produce; Jams & jellies, garlic, flowers & plant starts · USDA Certified Organic & Certified Naturally Grown Ed & Julie Newcomb 208-267-4743 Instagram@cloudelevenmountainfarm.

Livestock Feed Mega Layer 17% Rabbit 18% Complete Feed Chick Starter (hatch to lay) Swine Grower Pellets

Non – GMO Options Whole Barley Whole Wheat

Other Feed Options: Alfalfa Pellets, Bluegrass Pellets, Pea Pellets Deer Feed

10

Country Life

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

The Time Clock

By Joseph W. Smith For April The morning sun is just coming up As you walk into the mill The sawmill hasn’t started yet So all is calm and still.

You step up to the time clock And let it punch your card Such a simple little action It isn’t very hard Yet it seems that it’s important It’s something you must do Yes, this tiny little time clock Rules you through, and through

CO-OP Gas & Supply Company Scholarships are Now Available The CO-OP Gas & Supply Company is pleased to announce the establishment of scholarships available for the upcoming 2021-2022 college season.

These scholarships are available specifically for continuing education in the areas of Agriculture and Conservation. However, conditions for two year programs do apply. The scholarships vary in value from $500 to $1000. Applications are available on line at coopgasandsupply.com/programs/scholarships. Information is also available at the local high schools.

If you do not have access to our website please email kathy@ coopgasandsupply.com for assistance. The applications are due April 30, 2021.

The CO-OP is very excited to have this program in place and encourages all interested students to apply.

For it’s always, always ticking Ticking as the moments fly And the minutes turn to hours While the years go flying by.

It seems that you are riding On a circus Ferris wheel And you have no say in what you do Or think, or even feel.

You wish that you could make it stop For just a little while So you could spend some time at home A playin’ with your child.

The wheel just keeps on spinning Spinning faster as it turns And the clock just keeps on ticking Ticking as your candle burns.

Log Home Restoration and Maintenance Whether custom home construction, restoration of an older home or maintenance of your current log home, we are here to serve you!

Family owned and operated. We enjoy working directly with our customers.

100% customer satisfaction is our goal!

Licensed and Insured

And with your thoughts a’whirling Through your mind as they do race Now you see a smile upon A Happy, friendly face.

You stop for just a moment And say “How do you do?”

Then you realize he’s on This Ferris wheel with you.

For thought this clock’s still ticking And you cannot see the end It seems to help the time go by When you are with a friend.

Dear Mr. Sun

By Vivian E. Bogardus

How can you shine so bright and clear And not agree to warm us here?

I do not like your fickle mood.

What is it, with this attitude?

Tell me now, what is the reason?

Could it be, it’s not the a season?

The day will come when ice won’t form.

Will you then, Dear, Please keep us warm?

Cell (406) 529-7664 Office (406) 847-2316 mtspecialty@gmail.com

www.RestoreMyLogHome.com

Our Environment

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

Weed of the Month : Field Pennycress

By Chase Youngdahl, Bonner County Weeds Manager

11

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re in need of additional technical advice or recommendations with your early season weed control plan.

When spring arrives for real is anyone’s best guess, but it’s certainly close enough to start thinking about it, and planning for weed control activities. To assist with the cost of herbicides for controlling state listed noxious weeds, we offer the Neighborhood Cooperative Cost Share program. If your property is becoming overwhelmed with noxious weeds, but you pucker at the cost of quality herbicides, this program provides incentive to get the job done by reimbursing the herbicide expenses. Perhaps you’re downwind of a neighbor with an infestation of windborne spreading species, such as Canada Thistle or Hawkweeds—consider approaching that neighbor about signing onto the program with you. If you can get at least one other neighbor onboard, you’ve got a neighborhood cooperative. The sign-up packet is available on our website, and we can mail you a hard copy upon request. Some restrictions apply, contact your friendly county weeds manager for details. :-) As winter slinks away, the first weeds you’ll start to see sneaking through the early spring thatch are winter annuals. A common broadleaf winter annual in our area is Field Pennycress (Thlapsi arvense). This is a nuisance invader from Europe and has become widespread in most parts of North America. It’s in the mustard family, which is a big family, so there are a few look-a-likes. Some of the look-a-likes are a much bigger problem, such as Whitetop and Perennial Pepperweed, both state listed noxious weeds with a limited presence in northern Idaho. Field Pennycress has lobed, alternating leaves with toothed margins that come off of ribbed stems and gives way to small white flower clusters—much like Whitetop. Later in the development is when it separates itself with more unique characteristics. The fruiting bodies are the giveaway; Field Pennycress produces flat, circular pods with a notch at the tip and grow in clusters at the ends of the branches. Field Pennycress infestations throughout Bonner County are in their full glory in the month of May, then will begin to senesce in June, at which point the fruit pods will transition from green to brown and disperse seed. The accompanying photos lay out a visual for each stage of development.

Field Pennycress likes pastures, crop areas, gardens, orchards and any other site that experiences disturbance. It’s abundant across the region and can create quite the weedy mess, if you let it. Winter annuals germinate in the fall, THERE IS then bolt, flower, set seed and senesce (die) by the end of the following spring-beginning of summer. If the infestation is small [or on a sensitive site], mow/cut prior to flowering to prevent seed dispersal. Your most effective herbicide treatment window is going to be during the pre-bolting to bolting stage, which is usually April. A lot of fields here can be too wet for equipment through much of April, but as soon as conditions allow, you’ll want to get out there.

With cooler temperatures often persisting into the spring, Crossbow® (2,4-D + Triclopyr) is an effective herbicide to combat not only Field Pennycress, but many other nuisance & noxious weeds alike. The ester formulated 2,4-D in Crossbow® works faster and in a more comOFF-SEASON. NO plete fashion than their amine formulated counterparts when air and soil temperatures are lower than ideal. On the other side of the coin, ester 2,4-D formulations have a tendency to volatilize and move offsite when temperatures are high in the summer. That is a scenario with potential to turn ugly in a hurry! Ester 2,4-D’s Versatile. Durable. Dependable. Our tractors are in their element in every element. are very situational chemistries. The sulfonyVisit your local Massey Ferguson dealer today. WE’LL QUIT WHEN YOU QUIT. lureas (Telar® and/or Escort® or generics) are documented to perform well on Field Pennycress, especially as a preemergent if there is a seedbank that needs to be beaten back. You could kill two birds with one stone and tank mix 195 Triangle Dr., Ponderay, ID 83864 Telar® or Escort® with Crossbow® if you’re 208-263-1535 needing to also control numerous other invaSandpointPolaris.com sive mustards. This mix is also very effective on local noxious weed Common Tansy. ©2017 AGCO® Corporation. Massey Ferguson® is a worldwide brand of AGCO Corporation. AGCO and Massey Ferguson® are trademarks of AGCO. All rights reserved. MF17P001VA masseyferguson.us

The CO-OP Gas & Supply Company, Inc. is in the process of retiring stock from the cooperative. If you see your own name on this list, or know how to reach anyone on this list, please contact Linda Fitchett at 208.263.6820 WM MIKE D LOREN ROY L GARY GLADYS JOHN LEWIS A BRIAN BILL ALAN V ELMER MILTEN CHARLES KENNETH F DEAN JAMES MW ROY M GEORGE K JOEL E P A GERRITY TERRY LARRY KEN W & EDITH S Wl JAMES LAWRENCE LYNN JOHN RA KEVIN ALBERT T WB KENDALL BOB ROGER ARNOLD J MIK PAUL RL RICHARD O MAY MIKE ELDON MAURICE RF ROBERT GERALD NICHOLAS CLIFFORD OR MARY DENNIS JOHN L EDWARD KARL F ALLEN ARTHUR SIKE VERNON W H ROY WALTER ROBERT H BERT W JAMES A J DEE OR LANA JAMES DEWAINE & PAT EVELYN ALKUHEL

KENDALL RANCH KENT KENWORTHY KENWORTHY KERBY KERL KIBLER KIBLER SHEET METAL KICE KIEBERT KILE KILPATRICK KIMBALL KIMP KINCAID KINCAID KINCAID KING KING KING KING KINGSLAND KINS KINUCAN KIRBY KIRK KIRK KIRKENDALL KISSINGER KITTEL KITTELL KJOS KLAKKAN KLEIN KLINE KLINGER KLOPFENSTEIN KLOVEN KLUVER KNAGGS KNAPTON KNIGHT KNUDSON KOKOT KOON KOONTZ KOSSMAN KOSTER KOTHE KRAGER KRAMER KRAMER KRANZLER KRATZBERG KRATZBERG KREBS KREBS KRIEBEL KRISLOCK KROGSETH KROHMER KROHN KRUEGER KRUSE KUBECKA KUCHERRY KUCHERRY TRUCKING KUEHL KUEHN KUHEL

MAX J JAMES C THOMAS GEORGE PHILLIP & STACY ARTHUR J RICHARD L JOSEPH HR MICHAEL W LEW RANDIA M DON ROBERT MAX LESLIE M JAMES E BILLIE I DALLAS CARROL DA GW HENRY RALPH ARNOLD JOE STEPHEN ED DON ORRIN RICK DAVID PACHY DOUGLAS HAROLD E JON J MA ROCKY W WILLIAM A ANDY SHRIS JOHN GEORGE JAMES M LAWRENCE L V AWRENCE ROBERT E HARRY L PAUL WILBUR TIM HAROLD D PAUL E DON CECILLEE ROBERT FRANK & LORENE DR W HUGH CHAPMAN KENNETH LYLE MR & MRS WILLIAM DANIEL J SAN GEORGE A RE LEWIS WILLIS T STEVE K

KUNEY CO KUNKA KUNKEL KUNKLE KURANZ LABROSSE LACEY LACKNIT LADD LADELY LADOU LAGRACE LANAVILLE LANCASTER LANCE LAND LANDIS LANE LANE LANG LANGE LANGFORD LANGFORD LANGFORD LANGLOIS LAPHAM LAPOINTE LAPPIN LARITCHIE LARITCHIE LARKIN LAROCHELLE LARSEN LARSON LARSON LARSON LARSON LARSON LARUE LATHAM LATOUR LAUDE LAVELL LAVIN LAVOIE LAWRENCE LAWRENCE LAYTON LEADER LEAF LEAKE LEBSOCK LECOQ LEDERHOS LEE LEE LEE LEEDY LEEK LEEN LEEN LEFEBVRE LEHL LEHL LEHMAN LENKER LEONARD LEPOIDEVIN LESLIE

Thank you!

LEO JON OR KATHIE LEON RICHARD ROBERT B RAYMOND H ROBERT A DENNIS LEE JOHN FLORENCE LAVERNE DR JERRY PETER T KENNETH J FRED JW RICHARD OR DIANE E IRVIN ERNEST D JOHN T RICHARD BRAD STEVE LEONARD KENNETH E OJ CA SALLY L JAMES B ABE S ROBERT JOHN MRS MARY ROGER PHILIP J CAM CRISTEENA G RUTH OR BILL LARROL GENE DAVID LARRY OR SALLY FLOYD WB MARTIN A MARTIN WILLIAM JAMES R ME CHARLES HARVEY E JOSEPH RICHARD ROBERT P DANIEL L DARRELL DAVE OR KELLY ANN KATHERINE WILLIAM B KF HENRY A FLOYD GARVIN LOWELL L KENNETH W WESLEY LEE JOHN M KENNETH ROBERT TERRENCE D KENNETH N

LESMEISTER LEWIS LEWIS LEWIS LIBBEY LIBBY LIEBUS LIERMANN LIERMANN LILLY LINDER LINDLEY LINDSTROM LINSEY LIPP LIPSCOMB LISH LISSY LITTLE LITTLE LITTLE LITTLEFIELD LITTLEFIELD LITTLEJOHN LLOYD LOCKE LOCKWOOD LOCKWOOD LOER LOEWEN LOEWENSTEIN LOGUE TRANSPORT LOITVID LONG LONGDEN LOPEZ LOPEZ LOUGHERY LOUIVIERS LOVE LOVELESS LOVINGER LOWE LOWELL LOWELL SR LOWRY LOWTHER LOYDEN LUCAS LUCKEY LUJAN LUKEZICH LULUE LUND LUND LUND LUNDAK LUNDBERG LUNN LUTON LYLE LYLE LYLES LYLES LYMAN LYNES LYON LYONS MACAFEE MACDONALD

RICHARD C ROBERT JOHN TONY ERVIN LOUIS TIM D MICHAEL M STAN MARK MICHAEL P RON EUGENE WD TEX GARY E CHARLES L LEON C MIDGE A RON ROBERT A BRIAN DONALD V DAVID EMMETT MARCEL J JOHN BEN HENRI WILBUR L FRANK ANNE EDDIE JACK W JAMES W OR JEAN A JERRY & BETTY LAURANA REV JACK TL WAYNE MELODY JESSE CHARLES & BETTY ID J JOHN B DANIEL R BOB CYRIL W DENTON GLENN LLOYD RAY L OR DORIS FRED PAUL STAN CYRIL VERN RONALD E SCOTT WILLIAM DONALD H GARY PAT KENT DON AA DONALD O GORDON & SHARON BRIAN E CALVIN OR BETTY GENE RICHARD C STEVEN REX ROBERT WILLIAM H EARL

MACKEY MACKEY MACKI MACLEOD MADSEN MAGGI MAHAN MAHONEY MALA MALOCH MALONE MALTHANER MANSKER MANUEL MANUS MAPES MAPLE MARCY MARCY MARK MARKEE MARKEY MARKWELL MARLEY MARLEY MARQUESS MARQUETTE MARQUEZ MARSH MARSH MARTENS MARTIN MARTIN MARTIN MARTIN MARTIN MARTIN MARTIN MARTIN MARTIN MARTZ MASK MASON MASON MASON MASS MASTRE MASTRE MASTRE MASTRE MASTRE MATZ MAURER MAURER MAURER MAY MAY JR MAYER MCADAM JR MCCALLEY MCCALMANT MCCALMANT MCCANDLESS MCCANLIES MCCLURE MCCONNELL MCCORMICK MCCOY MCCOY MCCOY MCCOY MCCOY MCCRACKEN MCCRACKEN MCCREIGHT MCDANIEL

WAYNE BILL CL JOHN G (JACK) VERNON PAUL JACK R W LEWIS LEE TOM N LAURANCE TERRY MIKE TONY M ORVAL DUANE JOHN MD RICHARD MARGARET BEN JAMES MARK J REX WILLIAM & SHERRY ROBERT E PETER JAY F DENNIS JIM L VINCE KEVIN DON PHIL T JOHN DELMAN DONALD "BUD" SHARON S VIRGIL RUTH MCVEY HERB LESLIE RICHARD K THOMAS DOUG R PHILLIP JAMES KEN KEN BELOIT OR MARVA TRUDELL BEN A RON D OR LOREE A CYRIL FRANK LES EARL ELDON LON RUSSELL CHAS T LYLE MRS BETH KEN BEN W JOE ANN TAYLOR GUY MARYELLEN RICHAR ROY RON

MCDERMOTT MCDONALD MCDONALD MCDONALD MCDORMAN MCDOWELL MCELROY MCFADDEN MCFARLAND MCGEE MCGHEE MCGRAW MCGUIRE MCHARGUE MCHON MCINELLY MCINTIRE MCINTOSH MCKAY MCKELVEY MCKELVY MCKILLOP MCLAUGHLIN MCLEAN MCLEAN MCLEOD MCMASTERS MCMULLEN MCMUNN MCNALL MCNALL MCNALL MCNALLY MCNARIE MCNEARNEY MCNEIL MCNUTT SR MCPHAIL MCPHERSON MCUNE MCVEY MEAD MECHAM MEDENDORP MEHLER MEIGS MELIOR MELLEN MELNRICK LOGGING MENDENHALL MENDENHALL MENDENHALL MENKE MENSCH MERCER MERCER MERLE WELL DRILLING MERRIFIELD MERRIFIELD MERRIFIELD MERRIFIELD MERRITT MERRITT MERRITT MERRY MESCHER MESENBRINK MESERVE MESERVE MESSICK METCALF METCALF METTLER

HAROLD J JERRY MRS LEWIS GEAN MICKEY RANDY OR CHRIS BRYCE DALE EUGENE JIM CARL CHARLES DAVID R DEAN DOUGLAS L DUANE ED A OR MARVA GEORGE J GEORGE P GEORGE S JACK C JOHN C LAWRENCE R M W (BILL) PERRY PHIL & FELIX ROBERT C TONY WJ CHARLTON LAWRENCE A THOMAS MELVIN PHILLIP EUGENE ALBERT R J LEROY BARRY BRAD JAY ROY RODNEY C VIRGIL KEVIN J HOWARD ROBERT H PETE AL OR EVELYN DONALD LEE GARTH JAMES GLEN GRACE PATSY TOM WESKET G RUTH JOEL GEORGE CHARLES J DAN JAMES WAYNE H JOHN E PAUL R HENRIETTA R EDWIN W J STANLEY DAVID CALVIN A VINCE MIFLIN MARLYN W GUY D STAN W STEVEN

MEYER MEYERS MICHALK MICKELSON MICKEY MIDDLETON MIDEKE MILLARD MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLER MILLS MILLS MILLS MINCH MISNER MISTELSKE MITCHELL MITCHELL MITTAN MITTON MOCK MOE MOLINE MOLINE MONAHAN MONKS MONROE MONTEMAYOR MOORE MOORE MOORE MOORE MOORE MOORE MOORE MOORE MORAN LIGHTFOOT MOREAU MORGAN MORGEN MORLEY MORRE MORRILL MORRIS MORRIS MORROW MORSE MORTENSON MORTON MOSELEY MOSHER MOSSER MOYER MUELLER MULANAX MULLIN MULLIN

14

The Gardener’s Corner

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

School Gardens: A BCGA Priority

by Ann Warwick

The Bonner County Gardeners Association is dedicated to education in the field of gardening and horticulture. In a normal year, the organization offers a “Membership Course” which echoes the Master Gardener course offered by the University of Idaho. Members must have completed either this course or a Master Gardener course or commensurate education in order to join the organization, as our emphasis is applying scientific data to gardening. BCGA offers spring and fall Home Horticulture classes on a variety of topics of interest to gardeners. Due to COVID 19, the classes will not be available in the spring, but look for a robust class selection in the fall of 2021.

The BCGA Plant Sale is still on for spring! Mark your calendar for May 7 and 8 and visit us in the Ponderay Event Center parking lot for some great tomato, pepper and other veggie starts and perennial plants from members’ gardens.

BCGA has a role in Sandpoint area school gardens, serving as mentors and providing a supportive presence, and donating tools and materials, such as compost bins, to the schools. The school garden project began with community member Michele Murphree’s exceptional passion and energy for the project. She was singularly instrumental in persuading community resources and organizations to contribute planting boxes, water systems, fencing, and other needs for basic gardens. Ms. Murphree’s enthusiasm for school gardens generated BCGA volunteers for the project, and over the years, every elementary school now has a school garden.

Why have school gardens? There are many benefits. Learning the sources of food and nurturing the plants from seed to edibility spurs interest in nutrition in children and stimulates consumption of vegetables in the diet. Just getting children outside for a fun and interesting activity is a benefit, and the educational opportunities are many, from mathematics--how many seeds are needed per row of crop--to learning about the habits of each plant and more. Parental involvement is encouraged; gardening is a pursuit for all ages.

For more information on the Bonner County Gardeners Association, visit our website: bcgardeners.org.

THE EARLY SPRING GARDENER The sun is getting higher in the sky, and some days are actually warm.

It has been way too many months since we north Idaho gardeners have had our hands in the soil. Rather than jumping the gun and planting seeds in cold, forbidding soil, we can have the satisfaction of gardening right now, inside our homes or garages. Starting plants from seed is easy and fun. All that is needed is a space that will accommodate a plug-in 2 or 4 foot shop light, a place to hang that light, a timer, a warm space or a heat mat to keep germinating seedlings warm, and flats, liners, and plug trays or used four pack plant containers, and a clear plastic cover to place over the flat. And seeds, of course. You can also purchase growing shelves with lights all ready to go. The Co-op garden section has many of these items.

To get started, hang the light under a shelf or other flat surface. You will need about two feet of clearance. If the light fixture has a chain to regulate height, that is good. If not, a platform that can be moved up or down is also good. The idea is to be able to keep the lights very close to the plants to keep the little plants from getting leggy. Wash the flats and containers and spritz all surfaces with a 10% bleach solution to deter diseases. Let dry.

For best results, use a potting soil specifically for seed starting. This soil is finer than standard potting soil. Several brands are available at the Co-op store. Pour some into a bowl and moisten. The soil should feel moist but not soggy. Fill the plug tray or other containers with the potting soil, and plant the seeds according to package directions.

Spritz again with water to settle the seeds into the soil and place the plastic cover over. If you are using a heat mat, be sure it is the correct temperature for germinating the type of plants you are starting. If the room is warm, no mat is needed, generally. Set the height of the light to just above the plastic cover, set the timer--12 hours of light is good to get most plants going, but I generally set the timer for 13 or 14 hours for tomatoes.

Keep the surface of the soil fairly moist, and watch for tiny specks of green plant to emerge. When most plants are germinated, remove the plastic cover, and keep the light as close to the little seedlings as possible. When several true leaves appear, you may apply a light fertilizer. Move the light up as the plants grow. Soon, the little plants will outgrow the small containers, and larger pots are required. This means, more space is also required under lights. This may be when one has to either install new lights or move the plants to a heated greenhouse. But, by then, the sun is even higher and there are more warm days.

Before planting these new specimens outside, be sure the soil is warm enough, and that you have gradually accustomed them to outdoor conditions by setting them out for several hours a day before transplanting to a permanent location. Waiting a bit longer is better than risking shock from cold soil or an unexpected frost.

Now, go have some fun with seeds and lights!

16

Your Health

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

The Will to Live by Gabrielle Duebendorfer, ND

(9) While being common practice in palliative care environments, it has not been well established among general oncologists.

AARP cites a Lancet study showing that more than 80% of Covid patients 80 years or older put on ventilators did not survive. They point out the importance of discussing the difference between a DNR (do-not-resuscitate) and DNI (do-not-intubate) order. The latter would prevent providers from using a ventilator if one goes into acute respiratory distress. (6). The Journal of Geriatric Society reports difficulty breathing and delirium being treatable with low doses of morphine, hydromorphone, and lorazepam for symptom control. (8).

Nature’s medicine is well equipped to support the body during that last stage of life. Herbs, supplements and homeopathic remedies provide gentle tools to address conventional treatment side-effects, support organs that are beginning to fail, open the body’s elimination system to handle the onslaught of toxins, and calm an agitated nervous system. Homeopathic or herbal Chamomile can take the edge off pain and anxiety, while the tincture form of Piper or Gelsemium provides stronger relief. Simple naturopathic methods like hydro therapy and castor oil packs can provide soothing comfort. Immune modulating therapies like Mistletoe and Low Dose Naltraxone improve quality of life. I have found that both my experience in naturopathic medicine and long-term knowledge with conventional cancer care have provided me with a solid foundation to help my patients understand, coordinate, and navigate these difficult journeys. There is nothing more gratifying than hearing the relief from a patient or family member that finally they feel empowered in their own care.

As I made my way down this steep slope, all the different foot and hand holds provided by nature gave me reassurance that I can make it down. It did take several pauses to collect myself, deal with my fear, and figure out the next steps. My husband’s presence and tracks were greatly reassuring. We did make it down safely and happened to meet our friends just below – hot chocolate greatly appreciated.

Back in our cozy wood heated cabin, thoroughly tired and worn out, I reflected on how the intensity of this adventure had enlivened my whole being and strengthened my relationship with my husband and our friends. I also realized that blindly following someone’s else’s footsteps might not be the best path to choose. Perhaps the Covid epidemic similarly can provide the opportunity to look at other options at the end of life and face our own mortality. Rather than being frozen in front of a bare patch of ground, hoping for a miraculous rescue, we might be able to stop long enough to re-orient, to come “home” so to speak, and recognize the next branch that the will to live is extending in this wonderful process of living all the way to the end.

Gorgeous snow had beckoned us to snowshoe to a little lake up the hill behind our house. A father and son had ventured out the day before for an overnight and I wanted to bring them hot chocolate. The trail being very familiar to me I wondered why our friend had veered off the road way early, following the ridge up. Knowing that that would lead towards a steep slope on the back side of the lake, I kept hoping he would turn into the right direction, giving rise to frustration and hints of anger, as it made the hike considerably more difficult with loosely fitting old snow shoes – we had hoped for an easy trail hike. Catching myself, I realized how beautiful and invigorating it actually was to go on an adventure like this, if I would just focus on the moment – clouds enveloping us, occasional sun breaking through, wind blowing, warm body, fluffy snow, happy dog, connection with my husband.

By the time the tracks went in the right direction the terrain had changed to a steep slope with ice lurking beneath the minimal snow cover. A few trees and bushes provided foot and hand holds, but bare areas gave me serious pause. I have a deadly fear of sliding down steeps slopes and crashing into hard objects. I tried making steps, going backwards, swinging from branches, sliding on my bottom gingerly letting the spikes take hold in the ground.

The will to live is strong and left to one’s own resources one usually finds a way down the slope of life – even if the outcome is not certain.

Opening to the process itself enlivens and connects in a deep way.

The Covid epidemic and my work with cancer patients has made me wonder how we tend to take that opportunity away from people. My heart breaks at the thought of old people with Covid spending their last moments surrounded by machines and tubes and caretakers in suits – all with the hope of not crashing down that slope.

This will sound harsh and perhaps unethical, but I believe it is worthwhile asking the question of when will be the right time to die. One of my teachers recounted a 94-year-old dying woman saying “Why me?”

According to the CDC, of the over 500,000 Covid deaths about 50% were over 75 years old; 81% were over 65 years old (7). What could their final weeks or days have been like if they and their families had been given the option for palliative care?

Stage IV cancer is not curable. For a young person with terminal cancer conventional treatment might be a viable option to extend survival as a British Medical Journal article (1) highlights the difficulty (80% inaccuracy) for doctors to estimate how long somebody will survive. Yet for an older person who already has lived a full life, refusing conventional treatment is a worthwhile consideration. Research published in JAMA revealed that chemotherapy generally doesn’t prolong survival significantly with terminal cancer, but rather tends to worsen (1) BMJ. 2000;320(7233):469-472. quality of life for people with initial good performance status. (3,4) (2)http://oncology.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=2398175 What I see, however, is oncologists pushing – and patients insisting (3)http://oncology.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=2398177 – on never ending options of treatment with the hopes of survival or (4)https://www.cancernetwork.com/view/benefits-wbrt-brain-metastases miraculous cure. Brain metastases are often treated with whole brain (5) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6764930/ (6) https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/ventilator-use-oldradiation, though overall survival benefit is low and quality of life often er-coronavirus-patients.html#:~:text=Looking%20at%20those%20over%20age,is severely worsened. According to Dr. Drappatz, such patients older to%20be%20put%20on%20ventilators. than 75 years have considerable impairment as a consequence of (7)https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nvss/vsrr/covid_weekly/index.htm#AgeAndSex radiation, if they are one of the lucky ones to survive longer. (4) Immu- (8) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7264665/ (9) https://www.palliativedrugs.com/download/091110_KNMG_Guideline_for_Pallianotherapy generally is heralded as a better option than chemotherative_sedation_2009__2_%5B1%5D.pdf py, because it is a more targeted therapy. However, it also comes with lots of side-effect then needing to be treated. Observational studies show that “older and Medical - Dental - Pediatrics more vulnerable patients … were more likely to die in an Behavioral Health - VA acute hospital setting”. (5) 267-1718 Bonners Ferry Cancer treatment is a highly individual choice, depending 265-6252 Ponderay on one’s performance status, 265-2242 Sandpoint Pediatrics life circumstances, spiritual 448-2321 Priest River beliefs, and support. Most of 263-0450 VA my cancer patients come to me for support for convenkaniksuhealthservices.org tional treatment. What I am The best medicine is preventive medicine. addressing here is the will for Taking the time to visit your primary care life pushing survival at all cost, provider for an annual visit makes good sense. even in the elderly and more Annual physicals allow your provider to identify compromised. Often palliarisk factors that could lead to future health tive care is assumed to be a problems. giving up – by doctors and paEven better, detecting a problem before it's tients alike. And yet the Jourserious = health savings down the road. nal Palliative Drugs describes Why wait? Schedule your annual physical palliative sedation as an optoday! tion, ranging from temporary or intermittent to continuous sedation until the moment of death, to relieve suffering. (9)

You spring clean your house, why not spring clean your health?

Our Community

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021

Eyes for the Future

By Hannah Combs

Brought to you by the Bonner County Historical Society Ask anyone on the other side of the country about Idaho, and you’re likely to hear either, “You mean the state next to Nebraska?” or probably, “Of course, the place potatoes come from!”

For those of us in the northern reaches of the state, though, the legendary potato farms of southern Idaho might as well be in Iowa, they seem so far away. To us, potatoes are something we know on a much smaller scale, from growing them in our own gardens.

Like most plants, potatoes originated with a seed, but it was human hands and experimentation that turned them into the familiar crop we know today. Wild potatoes first appeared in the Andes Mountains thousands of years ago. When humans discovered wild strains laced with toxins, they observed the way vicuña (a wild relative of the llama) licked clay before eating the poisonous plants. Indigenous Peruvians gradually learned to bathe the spuds in clay-water that absorbed the toxins, and potatoes became a staple of a South American mountain diet.

Over the millennia, Peruvians saved and experimented with potato seed, developing a diverse collection of varieties to suit different altitudes and tastes (the International Potato Center in Lima has preserved and recorded over 5,000 varieties).

The Peruvians eventually cultivated non-poisonous potatoes, and when the Spanish invaded Peru in the 1500s, their troops were grateful to have a reliable supply of food at hand. Impressed, they collected potato tubers and took them back to Europe. Though most Europeans did not find them particularly tasty, the potato’s propensity for quick growth and large yields boosted crops across northern Europe and curbed starvation.

However, the tubers (now known as seed potatoes) that the transplanted potatoes sprang from could only produce clone plants, so only a few varieties of potato covered vast acres of European land.

The monocultures thrived until the 1840s, when a water mold infested potato fields in Ireland. The vulnerable crop succumbed to disease, leading to one of the worst famines in human history.

This disaster could have been averted, but in their hurried conquest, the conquistadors simply took what they wanted from the Incans. They never learned the secret of the potato: that while planting tubers made the potato plentiful and easily accessible, it was the challenging and careful cultivation of potatoes by seed that made the plants resilient, diverse, and flavorful.

Today, you can buy dozens of varieties of heirloom potatoes to grow in your own garden. Though growing potatoes from seed still requires a lot of work, so many other vegetables and plants can easily be grown from heirloom seeds.

In this country, we can credit our rich food culture to two main seed saving efforts: the patient nurturing of plants by generations of Native Americans, and the immigrants who hid seeds in their clothes on the long passage to America, hoping to recreate a taste of home on their new farms. For decades, Americans saved seeds out of necessity, passing the knowledge and the seeds down to new generations.

Volume 21 Issue 3

17

By saving and sharing seeds year after year, we are able to create our own plentiful gardens. Not only that, we are able to preserve biological diversity among species, keeping our food source resilient and delicious.

Over the years, national seed saving organizations have been established to preserve this diversity for future generations, but we have our own version here at home. The Sandpoint branch of the East Bonner County Library manages a seed library, where you can “check out” heirloom seeds, plant them in your garden, enjoy their bounty, and return the new seeds to replenish the seed library’s drawers for the next intrepid gardener.

Yes, we grow potatoes in Idaho. But we also grow a bounty of beans, tomatoes, turnips, raspberries, and just about every delicious plant you can imagine. All thanks to the thoughtful seed saving efforts of generations past and present.

Research provided by the Bonner County Historical Society, Smithsonian Magazine, and the book Seed to Seed by Suzanne Ashworth

Photo on March 2, 1926, of Senator William E. Borah of Idaho (right), Fred T. Dubois, first senator from Idaho (left) and chef Nicolas Sabatini of the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, DC. Senators were summoned as potato ambassadors to teach the chef the fine points of cooking potatoes from the “Potato State”. The potatoes were shipped special from Idaho for the Idaho Territorial Day banquet in Washington on March 3. To ensure their safe-keeping, potatoes were locked in the safe at the hotel.

Photo by Harris & Ewing, donated to BCHS by Loren Evenson.

︎ ** For Immediate Release **

Bonner County Sportsmen’s Scholarships Available Students, regardless of age, are encouraged to apply for the Bonner County Sportsmen’s Foundation (BCSF) Scholarships. There are two types of scholarships available. The first kind is a general academic scholarship awarded in honor of Leo Hadley and other outstanding sportsmen and women in Bonner County. Bonner County residents who are graduates of, or who are currently enrolled in, a public, private, or home school program, and who have successfully completed a Hunter Education course are eligible. The second kind is a scholarship for students interested in vocational pursuits. Vocational scholarships require that the applicant be a Bonner County resident and that their school be physically located in the state of Idaho. Three $500 academic scholarships and two $500 vocational scholarships for use during the 2021-2022 academic year are available.

Those interested may apply by completing an application, which is available at www.Bonnercountysportsmen.org .

An application can also be obtained by writing a letter of request to “BCS Scholarship” P.O. Box 1011, Sandpoint, ID 83864, or by visiting your school’s counselor. The scholarship is open to adults as well as youth, and the scholarship recipients will be chosen by June 1, 2021. Scholarship applications will also be available at the Bonner County Gun ’n Horn Show, March 5, 6, and 7, 2021 at the Bonner County Fairgrounds.

The postmark deadline applications is April 15, 2021.

Text for changes for the September issue The academic scholarship was originally started as a memorial to sportsman and Pump runswho all the time? community leader Leo Hadley, passed away in 1998. Leo was well-known for his community service. It has now been expanded to honor and memorialize Low pressure?The vocational scholarship is new this year, other outstanding sportspersons.

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18

Home and Hearth

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

Recipes...

Spring is finally on the way and most of us are fighting the bit to get outside and back into action! One thing that COVID did for America was get us back in the kitchen and preparing meals again. We all became reacquainted with comfort foods and didn’t so much cast calorie counting to the wind as much as added more exercise to the mix.

At our house we rediscovered the beauty of the casserole in terms of feeding lots of people, ease of preparation, and allowing us to do other things while dinner was in the oven. A consistent winner was the mac & cheese bake. This little gem is the quintessential American comfort food making it to the top 5 in most comfort food lists.

And with good reason! Pasta is easy to prepare, cheese sauce can be purchased and the cook can throw just about any meat into this dish and it will go. I like ham. But we have used browned ground beef, turkey and chicken, and even venison salami. Back in the day SPAM was a favorite. So let your imagination run wild in the kitchen and see what your family comes up with! Enjoy!

Mac & Cheese Bake 1 16 oz. box uncooked pasta - any shape 1 12 oz. box Velveeta prepared cheese sauce 1 pound browned ground beef or any other meat you choose 2 cups steamed broccoli florets 2 cups crushed potato chips or saltine cracker & butter, crumbled Preparation In a Dutch oven bring to boil 6-8 cups of water. Add pasta and cook for 7 - 8 minutes. DO NOT over cook.

Drain pasta and place back in the kettle.

Add 2 packets of Velveeta Cheese sauce and stir into pasta.

Stir in meat and brocolli. Pour mixture into a 9” x 11” baking dish.

Sprinkle crushed potato chips over the top.

Place in oven at 325 degrees and bake for 12 - 15 mintes or until potato chips reach a golden brown color.

Remove from oven and let set for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with a green salad or green beans as a side dish.

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Georges Annual Tree Sale Friday April 30, 2021 8:00 AM Sharp

We are looking forward to another great tree sale event in 2021! We hope you can join us.

Here are the trees, shrubs, and berries we plan to have available.

As always, availability is subject to any changes made by the supplier over which The CO-OP Has NO Control.

Japanese Tree Lilac

Ozark Strawberries

Silver Maple

Laramie Strawberries

Sand Cherry

Thornless Blackberry

Burning Bush

Patriot Blueberry

Pink Lilac

Fallgold Raspberry

Purple Lilac

Red Mcintosh Apple

Rainier Sweet Cherry

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Pippin Yellow

Pembina Plum

Honeycrisp

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For more information on this event and for a list please visit our web site. **Product list and info will be available online on 2/15/2021

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The Great Outdoors

21

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

Get Your Blood Pumping and Discover Endorphins

By Kathy Osborne

Between the COVID lockdowns last year, social distancing, park closures and a long winter,it is no surprise to hear scores of people mutter “Is this ever going to end?” The good news is it will end and the even better news is we are not without options. While our blood needs to get pumping as we break through the cobwebs of a sequestered life, our attitudes may need a little work as well.

As some social gatherings remain a safety issue, wide open spaces do not and that is where our get up and go can find relief! Over the years many newcomers and city planners have focused on green spaces and public walkways as the go to for outdoor exercise options. Certainly there is nothing wrong with these ideas but I have been noticing friends and neighbors making use of something far closer and far more fun: the county road.

F From walking the dog to biking and running, the county road offers a well established path. The safety of neighbors paying attention, reasonable traffic concentrations in early mornings and after dinner hours adds to the opportunity to take advantage of this free and easily accessible option. And you aren’t reSpecies November 2020 February 2021 quired to stay in your own neighborhood. County roads, lanes, streets, Douglas-fir/western larch $400 - $515/MBF $400- $540/MBF and drives are everywhere in the county and offer a variety of views.

Mountains, valleys, wildlife, waterways and more meet the walker willGrand fir/western hemlock $390 - $485 $390 - $500 ing to change it up a bit from day to day.

Lodgepole pine $340 - $450 $390 - $480 Another wonderful perk of county roads is they sometimes connect to Ponderosa pine $370 (6-7”) - $420 (8”+) $360 (6-7”) - $455 (8”+) national forest land or state land. Just be sure to look at a map before Western white pine $390 - $420 $390 - $420 you take off on a dreamy trail because it just might be private property.

Not all private property is marked with the usual NO Tress-passing Western redcedar $850 - $1,150 $900 - $1,500 signs or the less traditional orange spray painted square on a tree Cedar poles *$1,800* *$2,100* every 300’ or so. $20 - $28+/ton $20- 28/ton Pulp In addition to honoring private property is an issue that has come Tonwood $52/ton +/$52/ton +/up on public forums of late: dogs. We love our dogs but the neighbors maybe not so much. A county road is still a public area and the rules Note that these figures represent prices paid by competitive domestic facilities in the Inland about controlling our pets still applies. Most people in my area keep Northwest, and are based on average-sized logs and standard log lengths—usually 16’6” and 33’. MBF = Thousand Board Feet. Please note that the higher prices may reflect prices only their dogs on a leash or have trained them very well to behave among paid in select locations within the Inland Northwest. *Pole value varies widely depending upon people. length. Market information as of February 13, 2021 Not only will a The lumber market has raced to record high territory again after retreating during last year’s walk in the country fourth quarter. Finally, the Inland Northwest market has started to respond to crazy lumber do your heart and values with higher log prices. The cedar log market is particularly competitive, with record prices being paid in some instances. On the other hand, the mixed species log market is quite circulation good it variable, depending on location, consequently, benefiting from the best log price may require will help chase away a long log-hauling distance. Lumber sellers and log buyers remain optimistic for a continued any winter blues that strong market this year. - Mike Wolcott, ACF, Certified Forester may have set in.

This information is provided by Inland Forest Management, Inc., a forestry consulting company. For additional information, they can be contacted at That’s because exer208-263-9420, IFM@inlandforest.com or www.inlandforest.com. cise brings the added benefit of endorphin release. This neurochemical helps relieve stress, pain, and can make a person downright euphoric.

So don’t get stuck on the road most traveled.

Take a look around the county and find some new walking spaces. Enjoy!

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22

Economics

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

Protecting Your Identity

by Judy Baird, VP Branch Manager Mountain West Bank

It doesn’t happen often but when it does, it can be devastating. Finding out that someone else is using your personal or financial information to make purchases, get benefits, file taxes or commit fraud can come as a complete surprise, unless you are taking certain precautions to protect yourself.

Identity Theft can destroy your finances, your credit history, and your reputation, and it can take time, money, and patience to resolve. Frequently someone is not even aware that his or her identity has been stolen.

Once identity thieves have your personal information, they can drain your bank account, run up charges on your credit cards, open new utility accounts, or get medical treatment on your health insurance.

An identity thief may even file a tax return in your name and get your refund. In some extreme cases, a thief might even give your name to the police during an arrest.

There are multiple ways to tell if someone has stolen your information.

First and foremost, closely and regularly monitor your bank accounts and bank statements. Not receiving expected mail could indicate someone is taking or diverting your mail to another address. Medical bills for services you didn’t use could be another indication that someone is using your information. Or your health plan could even reject your legitimate medical claim because the records show you have reached your benefits limit.

Should you suspect fraud has taken place, acting quickly is your best means of controlling or reducing the damage. Immediately contact the companies where you suspect fraud occurred. Call their fraud department and explain that it appears someone may have stolen your identity. Ask them to close or freeze the accounts and to put an initial fraud alert on your credit report. Make sure to change any logins, passwords or PINs for your accounts.

There are three nationwide credit reporting companies that keep records of your credit history. Reach out to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to report that you are an identity theft victim. Placing a fraud alert is free. You may also request a free copy of your credit report from all three agencies. Review the reports and make note of any account or transaction you don’t recognize.

You may also place a freeze on your credit files. A credit freeze means potential creditors cannot get your credit report. That makes it less likely an identity theif can open new accounts in your name. Placing a freeze does not affect your credit score. You may temporarily lift the freeze when you want a business, lender, or employer to be able to review your credit report.

It is suggested that you visit IdentityTheft.gov to report identity theft and get a personal recovery plan. Their site includes detailed advice for over thirty types of identity theft and provides detailed advice to help you fix problems caused by identify theft. The site will also walk you through creating a personal recovery plan and makes pre-filled letters and forms to send to credit bureaus, businesses, and debt collectors.

Finally, create an Identity Theft Report which involves three steps.

One, submit a complaint about the theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This will generate an Identity Theft Affidavit. Second, file a police report and get a copy of the report or the report number.

Bring your FTC Identify Theft Affidavit when you file a police report.

Thirdly, the police report and the FTC Identity Theft Affidavit make the Identity Theft Report.

The best way to prevent identity theft is to guard your personal information. Keep your important papers secure, secure your social security number, be alert to impersonators online and protect your computer and mobile devices.

A customer has spent the last five years trying to recover from identity theft. He has incurred attorney fees, higher interest rates on loans, received threats of repossession and foreclosure, and has had to bear the humiliation of the impact with his employer. It has been incredibly time consuming and the recovery process has not been easy. He is now diligent about monitoring account records and credit reports and protecting his personal information.

I strongly encourage you, if you aren’t already, to be like this customer and guard your identity. Protect your personal information and pay attention to your financial records and accounts. Never assume everything is “just fine”. If you discover it has happened to you, more than likely it’s too late and some degree of damage has already taken place.

Be proactive and view your credit reports. Should you need help, visit the IdentityTheft.gov site or other online resources. Sadly, it can happen to anyone.

The CO-OP Country Round Up A paper for, and about, country people.

Owned by the CO-OP Gas & Supply Co., Inc. 125 Tibbetts Lane Ponderay, Idaho 83852 208-263-6820

The Round Up is published bimonthly by Round Up Publishing and printed by TPC Printing, Lewiston, Idaho.

Our distribution is 40,000 in North Idaho and West Sanders county in Montana.

The next issue of the Round Up will be out on May 7, 2021 Contributors : Jim Haynes, Ann Warwick, Judy Baird, Dr. Gabrielle Duebendorfer, Chase Youngdahl, Hannah Combs, Samantha Harvey, Joseph W. Smith, and Vivian E. Bogardus For advertising rates, information and questions please call 208.265.7703 or email kathy@coopgasandsupply.com You can find us on Facebook, Instagram and on our website coopgasandsupply.com

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St. Patrick’s Day Trivia St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated by the Irish and the rest of the world that wishes they were Irish. And the difinitive beer brand to consume on that day is Guinness!

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Real Estate and You

23

The CO-OP Country Round Up March / April 2021 Volume 21 Issue 3

North Idaho Real Estate Recap 2020: The Market Heats Up Jim Haynes, Associate Broker, Realm Partners, 208-290-7249, jim.haynes@frontier.com

2020 was a good year for real estate both nationally and regionally.

Prices continued the recovery they started in 2011/2012. Below is a plot of median1 home sales price by year from 2010 to 2020 for the total United States and the three northern Idaho counties.

Median1 Home Sales Price $500,000 $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $0

2010

2011 United States

2012

2013

2014

Kootenai County

2015

2016

2017

Bonner County

2018

2019

2020

Boundary County

Notice the overall upward trend for all geographic areas since 2012.

Also notice that in 2012 the United States, Bonner County and Kootenai County all had very nearly the same median home sales price (approximately $174,000). Since 2012 median home sales prices in Bonner and Kootenai Counties have increased at a faster rate than the national average. For the last five years national median home sales prices have been up just under 6% per year. In Boundary, Bonner, and Kootenai Counties that yearly sales price appreciation has been twice as much (11 to 13% per year) over the same five-year period. As a result, the median home sales price in all three northern Idaho counties for 2020 was greater than the national median home sales price by $8500 to $93,500.

Less Inventory Puts Upward Pressure on Prices The increase in median sales prices is due, in part, to the low inventory (number of homes for sale). Nationally, in December of 2020 there were less than two months of inventory, which marks the lowest level since 1999 which is when the National Association of Realtors started tracking the inventory. These conditions put significant upward pressure on prices nationally.

Locally there has been a similar trend in inventory. Current active listings are down approximately two-thirds over the same time last year.

Our local inventory is less than one month which is significantly shorter than our historic norm. This puts upward pressure on prices locally.

Prices Going Forward Prices nationally are predicted to continue to increase at, or near, the current rate (6% increase per year). Regionally, the trend going forward should follow the national trend but at a more robust pace (12-15%). Interest rates have fallen below 3% for 30-year fixed rate mortgages (2.7% for December 2020). Lower interest rates increase the buying power of home buyers and continue to support the increase in home sales prices.

In summary, if you are considering purchasing a home there may never be a better time going forward with the favorable interest rates currently near historic lows. Waiting in this market will mean paying more for the same house in the future. If you are considering selling you should be able to obtain a good price and spend less time on market to achieve a sale. Consult your real estate professional and see how you might benefit from current market conditions.

1.

The median home price is that price at which half of the homes sold for more than that amount and half sold for less than that amount.

The median price is used to remove bias from home prices introduced by high end properties.

Information compiled by Jim Haynes, Associate Broker, Realm Partners, 208-290-7249, jim.haynes@frontier.com Single Family Home Sales (number of units sold)

United States * Kootenai County ** Bonner County ** Boundary County **

2015 5,250,000 3,759 779 188

2016 5,450,000 4,133 840 174

2017 5,510,000 4,304 881 157

2018 5,340,000 4,512 1,000 217

2019 5,340,000 4,406 908 221

2020 5,640,000 4,876 1,016 230

% Change from 2019 5.6% 10.7% 11.9% 4.1%

2020 $296,500 $375,000 $390,000 $305,000

% Change from 2019 9.1% 17.2% 16.8% 30.3%

Single Family Median Home Sales Price

United States * Kootenai County ** Bonner County ** Boundary County **

2015 $222,400 $214,000 $235,000 $172,450

2016 $233,800 $230,330 $257,500 $175,000

2017 $247,200 $257,583 $280,990 $199,900

2018 $259,300 $292,000 $305,000 $194,000

2019 $271,800 $320,009 $334,000 $234,000

* Existing single family home sales ** Homes, condominiums and townhomes (existing and new) Source: National Association of Realtors, Coeur d'Alene MLS and Selkirk MLS (1-1-2015 to 12-31-2020, information deemed reliable but not guaranteed)

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