Wishing You a BOUNTIFUL HARVEST

State fair season, undoubtedly the best time of year, brings people together from all corners of the region to indulge in dizzying carnival rides, delectable and unique food options and incredible talent on the stage. And let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of deep-fried pickles at the fair every year? But amid all the fun, one thing remains at the heart of it all — agriculture. From the awe-inspiring displays of farm equipment to the creative 4-H projects and the livestock in the barns, the fair truly celebrates the essence of agriculture. It’s a chance for those from non-farm backgrounds to experience the world of farming firsthand, whether it’s milking a cow, feeling the soft wool of a sheep or simply meeting a farmer.

With the arrival of fall, state fair traditions fade into the background and we step into the harvest season. Agriculture, as always, faces constant change and evolution — and this summer’s drought conditions posed challenges and uncertainties as we approach the harvest. But such realities are an inevitable part of agriculture and rural America. While we can’t control the weather, there are steps we can take to mitigate its impact, like carefully managing your operation’s numbers. On page 16 of this issue, you’ll find some valuable tips on how tools like cash-flow statements, cost of production calculations and marketing plans can help make critical farm decisions more data-driven and less of a guessing game.

At Compeer Financial, managing risk is a fundamental aspect of our cooperative. We strive to maintain a strong position not only to offer you a reliable source of capital but also to provide the benefits that come with being a member-owner. Our unique patronage program is a testament to this commitment. This year, Compeer is proud to return $202 million in patronage to our member-owners. We understand the significance of patronage returns for our clients, and we remain dedicated to sharing our success through patronage checks now and in the future.

Being your cooperative, we also take it upon ourselves to amplify the voice of rural America and agriculture on Capitol Hill. In May, I had the privilege of testifying before the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry’s Subcommittee on Commodities, Risk Management, and Trade, where I emphasized the importance of crop insurance programs and the need for more support for young and beginning farmers.

Celebrating agriculture and those who contribute to it is equally essential. In this issue, we shine a spotlight on Gumz Muck Farms (page 10), a producer and packer in Wisconsin, honored as Compeer Financial’s 2023 Food & Agribusiness of the Year. Additionally, we share the story of the Janksi family (page 8), who are embracing sustainable practices and conducting research to make their operation in central Minnesota grow greener.

As we approach the harvest season, the team at Compeer wishes you a safe and bountiful harvest. It is truly an honor to serve you, and we are proud to be by your side.

Jase Wagner President and CEO