Cultivate Magazine: Summer 2022

CULTIVATE A MAGAZINE FOR CLIENTS AND FRIENDS OF COMPEER FINANCIAL®

IN THIS ISSUE: Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America 2021 Report

SUMMER 2022

THANK YOU, DAIRY FARMERS.

LET’S CELEBRATE JUNE DAIRY MONTH TOGETHER. We recognize the dedication it takes to produce safe and nutritious milk and dairy products for our nation and world. Because we share a passion for the dairy industry, we’re proud to work alongside hard-working dairy farmers, processors and others every day to achieve their goals.

After all, seeing agriculture and rural America thrive is at the heart of everything we do.

COMPEER.COM/DAIRY Compeer Financial can provide assistance with finances based on historical data and industry expertise.

Compeer does not provide legal, tax or investment advice. Compeer Financial, ACA is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender and Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. © 2022 All rights reserved. NMLS #619731

CULTIVATE Volume 6, Issue 2 Summer 2022

EDITORIAL STAFF Nora Nolden, Editor Chastity Valvick, Editor Amy Barnett, Assistant Editor Terri Fast, Contributing Writer Sarah Hetke, Contributing Writer Karen Schieler, Contributing Writer Kelly Kendall Studios, Designer

DIRECTORS Akin Agar Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. Ashley Ahl Merrillan, Wis. Rodney Bosma Rushmore, Minn.

Ann Broome Austin, Texas Allyn Buhrow Ashton, Ill. Mark Cade Westby, Wis. Kaye Compart Nicollet, Minn.

Daniel Erickson Alden, Minn.

Tim Evert North Freedom, Wis. Larry Fischer Sleepy Eye, Minn.

Dale Holmgren N. Mankato, Minn.

Greg Nelson Spring Valley, Wis. Roger Newell Williamsfield, Ill. David Peters Manteno, Ill. Greg Pollesch Oshkosh, Wis. Kimberly Wedig Darlington, Wis. Stephanie Wise Joliet, Ill. Cultivate is a publication of Compeer Financial®, ACA. Compeer Financial exists to champion the hopes and dreams of rural America. This publication is copyrighted in its entirety. Cultivate is published by Compeer Financial, 2600 Jenny Wren Trail, PO Box 810, Sun Prairie, WI 53590.

Please send address changes to Compeer Financial, Attn: Cultivate Magazine, 2600 Jenny Wren Trail, PO Box 810, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 or call (844) 426-6733.

Compeer Financial, ACA is an equal opportunity employer, lender and provider.

Equal Credit Opportunity Lender. Compeer Financial is a registered trademark of Compeer Financial, ACA. ©2022 All rights reserved.

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10

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18

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CONTENTS 5 Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America

12 Get Out!

8 Packing for a Cause

18 The Future of Farming

2021 Report

One teen’s passion to impact hunger

10 Emerging Agriculture

Mentors and apprentices grow a community

Cover: A bright summer sunrise paints the sky above a lush cornfield with hues of orange and yellow.

Innovative outdoor classroom benefits students, staff and parents

Lindsay Baneck is Compeer Financial’s 2022 GroundBreaker of the Year

20 A Lasting Legacy

Recognizing Greg Nelson’s 36 years of leadership on the Board

4 CEO Message 14 Agriculture and Rural Initiative Grant Recap 22 News & Announcements 23 Compeer’s Digital Client Care Team

Cultivate is brought to you by Compeer Financial. This publication’s name represents our cooperative’s commitment to growing long-term relationships with our member-owners and championing the hopes and dreams of rural America. Comments or suggestions for future issues can be sent to Compeer-CommunicationsTeam@compeer.com.

Summer 2022 • CULTIVATE 3

CEO MESSAGE

FINDING OPPORTUNITIES

in headwinds and tailwinds “As a farmer, you have to be agile. You also need a plan that considers multiple scenarios so you can act quickly when conditions change.”

At Compeer Financial, we often talk about how external factors impact agriculture. The impacts can be positive, but not always. In fact, some “events” benefit one aspect of the business while hindering another at the same time. The goal, of course, is to end up on the better side of things in the end.

If you’ve been in agriculture for a while, you’ve learned along the way that there will always be things outside of your control. This requires you to shift gears, change direction or innovate.

Weather, economic conditions, politics, societal issues and global relations all affect agriculture and, eventually, are reflected in the numbers on your balance sheet.

As a farmer, you have to be agile. You also need a plan that considers multiple scenarios so you can act quickly when conditions change.

Many farmers probably went into 2022 with anticipation for a stable year. We’ve learned to live with COVID-19 and related supply chain issues. By spring, notions of embracing the new normal ended as the Fed announced an increase in interest rates and Russia invaded Ukraine, attacking innocent civilians in an incomprehensible, sad and unnerving war.

Although they pale in comparison, the war’s impacts on agriculture are serious and important to consider. Ukraine is a strong exporter of agriculture products, including corn and wheat, while Russia is a key supplier of fertilizer and other products farmers need to do their work. With these countries’ exports taken out of the equation, supply and demand becomes an issue. Commodity prices benefit, but the payback is tempered by increased operational expenses – and ripple effects from the Fed’s actions on interest rates.* It’s an unsettling time as we wonder how the geopolitical issues will evolve and worry about the impacts they will have on our operations. You may be asking, “What should I be doing to protect my business and take advantage of the opportunities presented by the fluctuating economy?”

Careful planning and expert guidance are your best tools of defense during times of uncertainty.

Connect with your Compeer team to review your risk management plan (or create one), discuss interest rates and how they affect the business you have with us, and develop a marketing strategy.

Lock in prices, inputs and interest rates while margins are profitable rather than holding off for something better. Use our digital tools (page 23) to save time that can be better spent on big-picture planning with your financial officer. And remember to look to your peers for ideas on identifying and pursuing opportunities – even in times of adversity (pages 18 and 20).

We only need to look a few months back to see what’s possible. Overall, 2021 was a strong year for the agriculture industry and our clients. In fact, it was one of the strongest years in the last decade – despite Omicron, worker shortages, severe weather and other challenges.

We can’t know all that will happen to disrupt agriculture. Fortunately, Compeer has the resources to help you counter the headwinds and ride the tailwinds that surround us now and will come in the months ahead. We look forward to continuing our work together and, especially, seeing you get the better of each disruption that arises.

Rod Hebrink, President and CEO

4 CULTIVATE • Summer 2022

*A majority of Compeer clients are long-term borrowers with fixed rates. We recognize our short-term borrowers are impacted by the Fed’s decisions, and we are open to discussing options to help manage borrowing costs.

FUND FOR RURAL AMERICA

2021 REPORT Summer Summer2022 2022 •• CULTIVATE CULTIVATE 5 17

2021 REPORT | Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America

Making a DIFFERENCE In 2021, Compeer Financial’s Fund for Rural America was able to contribute an astounding $4.4 million (close to $1 million increase over 2020) to organizations and programs impacting those who Compeer serves and works in 144 counties throughout Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Schools Innovation Grant Program, designed to support exemplary programs developed by rural schools during the pandemic. In 2021, $150,211 was awarded to 22 schools. Read about one of the grant’s impact to Eagle View Elementary’s outdoor classroom on page 12.

The Fund is overseen by a Board of Trustees, including members from our Board of Directors and the Compeer team. It’s their job to ensure the dollars allocated align with Compeer’s mission and fall under the five areas of focus:

While our cooperative as a whole gave back, many local causes personally important to our team members also were supported. The Fund matched $22,285 in gifts made to a variety of local organizations by team members, with an additional match of $12,300 in personal gifts to local food pantries. Also, as team members returned to offices, they collectively packed more than 30,000 hygiene items into wellness bags to benefit local organizations that help others.

• • • • •

Agricultural Advocacy and Development Agriculture Education Cooperative Initiatives Rural Development and Community Enrichment Youth Engagement

As impacts of the pandemic continued through 2021, rural communities rose to the challenges of the “new normal.”

In turn, the Fund continued and increased efforts to make impacts on agriculture and rural communities.

The Fund allocated $163,000 to 36 community foundations for pandemic support or disaster relief funds. From those gifts, $98,000 was matched by local community donations, 36 percent helped provide relief to small businesses and rural communities, and 35 percent sustained needs for emergency food and basic supplies.

To help support the good work of educators struggling to create meaningful and impactful programming during these difficult times, the Fund launched a one-time program, Rural

95%

OF GIVING MADE LOCAL AND REGIONAL IMPACTS

While rural communities have always pulled together, there is still more work to be done. Thankfully, those working in agriculture and rural initiatives are chipping away at some of the challenges. As chair of the Fund’s Board of Trustees, I am grateful and humble to be among those striving to help local, rural communities and individuals thrive.

Thank you to our clients and member-owners for making it all possible.

John Monson Chair, Board of Trustees Chief Mission and Marketing Officer Compeer Financial

1.9M

LIVES DIRECTLY IMPACTED

549 GRANTS

147

SCHOLARSHIPS

609,413 6 CULTIVATE • Summer 2022

135

ANNUAL & ONE-TIME GIFTS

YOUTH DIRECTLY IMPACTED WITH $1.35 MILLION IN GIFTS

23,366 4,043

RURAL FIRST RESPONDERS IMPACTED BY EMERGENCY RESPONSE EQUIPMENT GRANTS

17.8M LIVES TOUCHED

EDUCATORS ASSISTED IN EXPOSING YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS TO AGRICULTURE

1.4M

PEOPLE FACING FOOD INSECURITY SUPPORTED

Minnesota

Wisconsin

2021 RECIPIENT MAP In 2021, the Fund for Rural America awarded 696 grants and scholarships, totaling $1.7 million.

This map shows where the 12 programs and high school scholarships were awarded. (Annual and one-time commitments, college scholarships and Rural Schools Innovation Grants are not shown on the map.)

Agriculture Classroom Grant

Farmers Market Grant

Beginning with Compeer Financial Grant

General Use Grant

County Fair Facility Upgrade Grant

High School Scholarship

Disaster Relief Support

MORE for Agriculture Grant

Emergency Response Equipment Grant

Rural Feasibility Study Grant

Transition Planning Grant

Community Building Grant

Illinois

WANT TO KNOW MORE? For more information about these grants and to access applications, visit compeer.com/giving-back.

Summer 2022 • CULTIVATE 7

2021 REPORT | Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America

Packing

FOR A CAUSE One teen’s passion to impact hunger

8 CULTIVATE • Summer 2022

Left: Driven to help others, Libby Larkin has led her community in several food packing events to help combat food insecurity in Livingston County, Ill. Above: Larkin shows the result of one of her 2021 food packing events, before meals are shipped out to local food banks and other service groups.

Above right: The town of Pontiac added road signs to celebrate Larkin’s accomplishment of being named Illinois FFA’s Service Learning State Champion.

PONTIAC, Ill. – Libby Larkin was in seventh grade when she learned she was different from many of her classmates.

there is more need than ever before. I’m just helping with a few meals, but those meals are making a difference.”

“I always know where my next meal is coming from,” she said. “But I learned not everyone does. I wanted to help other kids be able to eat and not worry as much so they could focus on school and live their best lives.”

Larkin’s personal drive sparked her to take part in the Illinois 4-H Food Action Summit and serve on the Illinois 4-H Food Advocacy Team. She also used the project as a Supervised Agricultural Experience for FFA, for which she received national honors.

Larkin, with help from her older brother Jacob, started on a mission to help their friends and neighbors in Livingston County, in central Illinois, fight hunger.

DRIVEN TO MAKE CHANGE 2021 marked the fourth year the now high school junior has hosted a food packing event. Since starting on this personal mission, Larkin has coordinated the packing of 84,866 meals with the help of 333 volunteers.

She worked to raise funds, including a grant from Compeer Financial’s Fund for Rural America; found event volunteers and a host location; and secured raw food materials from Meals of Hope. Then, she packaged and distributed the meals to schools, churches and community organizations in Livingston County.

In 2022, she plans to host three foodpacking events.

“Kids and families in my community are struggling,” Larkin said. “Now, with the added impacts of the COVID pandemic,

COMMUNITY SUPPORT When she started the project, Larkin said she had to convince donors and volunteers that she was capable and could be trusted to follow through on her plans.

Since then, she has learned about public speaking, handling logistics and serving others.

“Libby has a compassion for helping people,” said Jenny Larkin, Libby’s mom.

“Our family has supported her along the way, but she has really taken on all areas of this project and made it happen on her own.”

Larkin said the support of the agriculture community in Livingston County was imperative to making her events successful.

Brent Byarley, a Compeer financial officer based in Pontiac, Ill., has watched Larkin’s project develop and grow over the years.

“When you see a young member of your rural community step up to make a

ABOUT LIBBY LARKIN • From Pontiac, Ill. • 16 years old • Active in 4-H, FFA, Key Club, National Honors Society, Varsity Golf Team, member of the Illinois 4-H Food Advocacy Team • Illinois FFA State Winner in Supervised Agricultural Experience Service Learning, National FFA Gold Winner • Future plans are to study ag business and play college golf

difference with a project of this scope, you also have to step forward to help,” Byarley said. “I am proud to see Compeer support Libby’s project because it is making a difference in our local community. She really took this idea and ran with it.”

Larkin one day hopes to turn this passion and project into a career of combating food insecurity with the help of the agriculture community. But above all, Larkin hopes she inspires others to help.

“We have been doing this for a few years, but once I go away to college, I need someone to pass this on to,” she said. “I hope we can keep on passing this project along, making a difference in our community, until no one is hungry anymore.”

Summer 2022 • CULTIVATE 9

2021 REPORT | Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America

Emerging

AGRICULTURE Mentors and apprentices grow a community

10 CULTIVATE • Summer 2022

MADISON, Wis. – Only 1 percent of farms in the United States practice this unique kind of farming. It’s a relatively new system to modern agriculture in the upper Midwest, but it has been practiced for hundreds of years by Native Americans. Can you guess what it is?

It’s agroforestry — a farming practice that produces nuts and fruits like chestnuts, hazelnuts and black currants.

With growing interest in agroforestry in the Midwest, many in the industry are learning and building together as they go. Seeing a need to support this emerging community, a group of farmers and researchers in Illinois founded the Savanna Institute in 2013.

LEARNING THROUGH DOING The Savanna Institute is a nonprofit organization, now headquartered in Madison, Wis., that works with farmers and scientists to lay the groundwork for widespread agroforestry adoption in the Midwest.

Through its apprenticeship program, Savanna Institute connects new farmers to mentors who show them the ins and outs of agroforestry.

“Because the agroforestry industry is still in early development, it can be hard for new farmers to get started,” said Michele Manske, on-farm apprenticeship and engagement manager at Savanna Institute. “We hope to be a connection point to bring beginning farmers who want to learn together with established farmers who want to teach.”

DIFFERENT JOURNEYS Now in its fourth year, the apprenticeship program has hosted beginning

farmers from conventional agriculture backgrounds, young people who are brand new to farming and even those who are looking for a second career in retirement.

Garrett Watson grew up on a family farm that produced corn and soybeans for many years. When it came time for Watson to join the operation, he grew interested in different approaches and diversification of the operation.

After completing his apprenticeship through Savanna Institute, he convinced his dad and other family members to give agroforestry a go with a small part of their land. Since then, Watson has added more land into the family’s agroforestry segment by expanding with different varieties of fruit and nut species. Their agroforestry practice also provides habitat for wildlife and carbon sequestration opportunities.

Connor Dunn was an apprentice who started learning on the farming side of agroforestry, but when his apprenticeship was completed, he felt a calling to other components of the industry. He continued his learning at the local co-op to understand more about the business side of things. Six months after that, he found himself conducting hazelnut research with a professor in Wisconsin.

“Connor has been moving across the entire agroforestry supply chain,” said Kate Wersan, senior director at Savanna Institute. “And we consider that a success story as well. You may complete your apprenticeship and find out that farming isn’t the path for you, but maybe research or agribusiness are where your strengths lie. We are a growing community and need all aspects of the industry to grow along with us.”

AGROFORESTRY: TERMS TO KNOW Alley cropping – planting trees or shrubs in strips among agricultural and horticultural crops Forest farming – growing specialty crops like mushrooms within a forest environment Silvopasture – combines agroforestry production with livestock pasture and forage environments; often practiced with swine and cattle Strip cropping – cultivating different crops in alternate strips within one field to prevent soil erosion

Compeer Financial’s Fund for Rural America awarded the Savanna Institute’s apprenticeship program with General Use Grants in 2020 and 2021.

“The support we get from Compeer Financial helps us to build a valuable experience, especially with the knowledge our mentors bring to the program,” Wersan said. “Compeer has been a core part of making sure the program happens each year because we know we’ll be able to attract quality mentors to help out our agroforestry apprentices.”

As the program continues, Savanna Institute hopes more apprentices come back for new mentor farm experiences or to conduct research. As the community continues to grow and crops are established, the future of agroforestry in the Midwest looks bright.

Left: Savanna Institute Lead Scientist Kevin Wolz teaches apprentice Hannah P. about disease in currants at a demonstration farm in Illinois.

Summer 2022 • CULTIVATE 11

2021 REPORT | Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America

GET OUT!

Innovative outdoor classroom benefits students, staff and parents

PEQUOT LAKES, Minn. – Have your grandparents ever told you about how they had to walk to school, uphill – both ways! – during snowstorms? The students at Eagle View Elementary School in Pequot Lakes, Minn., might have a thing or two to say about that. No matter the weather, students in grades K–4 spend actual class time outdoors.

It may sound crazy, but there’s a method to, and scientific data that backs up, the madness. According to Children & Nature Network, “a growing body of evidence shows time spent learning and playing in nature not only helps children academically, it improves mental and physical health and inspires strong connections to the natural world.”

Deanne Trottier, Eagle View Elementary E-STEM (Environment, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teacher and nature center coordinator, couldn’t agree more.

“I’ve been bringing my students outdoors

12 CULTIVATE • Summer 2022

more and more over the past few years,” Trottier said. “There are so many benefits.”

RELIEVING SYMPTOMS OF THE PANDEMIC In 2020 and 2021, as the COVID-19 pandemic dragged on, Trottier – like many teachers – noticed a lack of engagement and motivation in her students. Other teachers followed suit in bringing their students outdoors, and they worked with neighbors to create an outdoor learning space. The space had old cable spools for tables and stumps and haybales for reading and studying. The experiment worked wonders as student focus and participation increased.

Unfortunately, being in northern Minnesota presented a perennial obstacle to outdoor learning: long, bitter winters.

“Last winter, we started dreaming about building some sort of shelter so we could bring the kids outside even when it’s really cold or there’s a lot of snow,” Trottier explained.

Logistics and resources were a big challenge, but when the school district superintendent shared information on Compeer Financial’s Rural Schools Innovation Grant, Trottier knew it was a great fit.

“The mission of the grant – expanding on a program we started during COVID – perfectly aligned with our goals, making the grant application really easy to write,” Trottier said.

“We’d seen so many great results from the outdoor classrooms already,” she continued. “We applied for the grant and are so grateful we received it.”

CONSTRUCTING AN ENHANCED LEARNING EXPERIENCE The team at Eagle View used the $10,000 grant to build a yurt – a circular, domed tent with protective material stretched over a lattice framework with additional luxuries such as windows, heaters and a skylight.

It became a much larger building project than they anticipated. But, thanks to the financial support, free labor and in-kind donations from the community, they broke ground in October 2021.

As they watched the yurt-building process unfold outside their classroom windows, students’ curiosity was piqued, and they were eager to start their coldweather outdoor learning.

Ellie, a fourth-grader at Eagle View, was particularly excited. “Normally when I’m in the classroom, I get kind of bouncy and feel like I want to ‘fly around,’” she said.

“Being outside in nature with fresh air and less noise makes me feel calm and ready to learn.”

OPENING THE DOORS FOR CHANGE Now that the yurt is completed, the outdoor learning concept has evolved even further. There is a checkout process for teachers to reserve yurt time for their classes, and Trottier’s been collaborating with other teachers and specialists to

integrate other subjects and activities into what they were observing and experiencing outside. The results are more engaged and focused students, and a much more active interest in science and the environment.

Since last fall, Trottier has been the school’s first official E-STEM specialist.

She teaches a class where she takes science standards and adapts them to outdoor teaching in a hands-on way to get students immersed in what they’re learning.

Now, instead of impacting just the 25 or 30 kids in her regular classroom, every child in the school has the opportunity to participate in outdoor learning with Trottier for at least one hour every week.

“It’s been really fun to see how enthusiastic they are about science and the environment now,” Trottier said. “They love that we’re always doing something different and exploring new things, and they can recognize how science and

the environment are a real part of their everyday lives.”

Trottier sees the impact reaching even further. “As we increase their awareness about the environment and the outdoor world, hopefully, they’ll grow up to be responsible citizens who want to take care of and continue to preserve the parks, trails and open spaces we have.”

Above left: Deanne Trottier, Eagle View Elementary teacher and nature center coordinator sits outside of the yurt.

Middle top: Learning and playing in nature not only helps children academically, it improves mental and physical health and inspires strong connections to the natural world.

Middle bottom: Building the yurt was a collaborative, community project.

Above right: Students get a change of pace and a breath of fresh air working on a group project in the yurt.

Summer 2022 • CULTIVATE 13

2021 REPORT | Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America

Supporting the Future Agriculture Workforce:

AGRICULTURE AND RURAL INITIATIVE TRAINS THE NEXT GENERATION

In 2021, Compeer Financial’s Fund for Rural America Board of Trustees announced a $1.9 million commitment from the Agriculture and Rural Initiative to support vocational agriculture education at community and technical colleges.

The Agriculture and Rural Initiative was created by the Compeer Financial Board of Directors in 2019 to make signature investments in programs and projects that are high priorities for Compeer member-owners, including workforce development, which they often list among their highest concerns.

The five-year commitment includes working directly with 30 community and technical colleges to support $1.6 million in grants and $375,000 in scholarships.

2021 marked the first year of gifts. Thirteen colleges were awarded $750,000 in grants and 60 students received $1,250 scholarships. In total, 2,394 students and 84 faculty members were directly impacted by these gifts. Grants supported equipment and technology needs, student recruitment and outreach, student retention and professional development, and faculty training related to new equipment and technology.

14 CULTIVATE • Summer 2022

Colleges receiving grants were: Chippewa Valley Technical College, Eau Claire, Wis. $75,000 grant for a tractor, training for diverse populations, support for farm business and production management program, and other needs for programs in poultry, soil, tractor safety and beekeeping.

Gateway Technical College, Kenosha, Wis. $75,000 grant to create an accessible garden area, horticulture supplies, and an X-ray machine and oxygen lines for veterinary technology.

Highland Community College, Freeport, Ill. $50,000 for the agronomy program’s first tractor to teach precision agriculture technology on 15 acres of research plots, and general machine maintenance.

Illinois Central Community College, East Peoria, Ill. $50,000 grant for the purchase of a UTV with sprayer and GPS technology for precision agriculture training, and to support the Agriculture, Diesel and Horticulture Showcase event for two years.

Illinois Valley Community College, Oglesby, Ill. $25,000 grant for upgrades to crops, soils and precision agriculture laboratories, and student professional development activities and conferences.

Kishwaukee College, Malta, Ill. $75,000 grant for greenhouse renovations and upgrades to enhance emerging industry trends in the areas of automation and technology.

Lake Land College, Mattoon, Ill. $75,000 grant for student conferences and agriculture industry tours, enhanced student recruitment, agriculture education software upgrades and hands-on technology.

Madison Area Technical College, Madison, Wis. $50,000 grant for equipment updates for ag service technician, ag equipment technology, diesel equipment technology, diesel and heavy equipment technician programs and student recruitment.

Northwood Technical College (Formerly Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College), Shell Lake, Wis.

technology canine surgical model, dystocia calf, bovine injection simulator and ruminant model.

Ridgewater College, Willmar, Minn. $75,000 grant for a precision ag trailer as a mobile simulation center for various precision agriculture applications, and implementation of curriculum, and training for meat-cutting certificate program.

Sauk Valley College, Dixon, Ill. $25,000 grant for a new tractor for use on the college’s farm to teach production agriculture to students.

St. Cloud Technical and Community College, St. Cloud, Minn. $50,000 grant for soft skills development to help first-generation college students succeed, and agricultural experience development for students to gain basic skills needed for achievement in education.

Vermillion Community College, Ely, Minn. $75,000 grant for a building facility to house an outdoor learning lab, classroom and storage for the natural resources technology programs.

$50,000 grant for hands-on learning aids, including a veterinarian

TURN WHAT IF INTO WHAT IS.

LET’S MAKE YOUR HOME CONSTRUCTION PLANS A REALITY, TOGETHER. If you’re looking to build your dream home, our unique perspective and insights make the financing process easy.

We allow you to be your own contractor, and our home construction financing solutions are designed to fit your needs – including interest-only payments as funds are disbursed, competitive long-term fixed rates and flexible loan terms. And our experienced financial team will guide you every step of the way.

To learn more, contact your local Compeer representative or visit: COMPEER.COM/HOMECONSTRUCTION Compeer Financial can provide assistance with finances based on historical data and industry expertise. Compeer does not provide legal, tax or investment advice.

Compeer Financial, ACA is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender and Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. © 2022 All rights reserved. NMLS #619731

Summer 2022 • CULTIVATE 15

2022-2023 GRANT TIMELINE For detailed information, deadlines and applications on each of these programs*, visit compeer.com/giving-back August: Emergency Response Equipment and Regional Collaboration Grants November: General Use Grant January: High School Senior Scholarship Program (Due in March) February: Farmers Market: Organization and Vendor Grants March: County Fair Facility Upgrade Grant April: Agriculture Education and Classroom Equipment Grant May: General Use Grant Ongoing: Beginning with Compeer Financial Grant Community Building Grant Rural Feasibility Study Grant Transition Planning Grant *Each grant program is subject to change.

2022 FUND FOR RURAL AMERICA BOARD OF TRUSTEES John Monson, Chairperson Board of Director Members

Team Members

Dan Erickson Dale Holmgren Greg Nelson Dave Peters Greg Pollesch Stephanie Wise

Mary Daun Karen Johnson Jenny Layton Bob Madsen Jessica Schneider Kurt Zeman

Compeer Financial Corporate Giving Team Melanie Olson Karen Schieler

(844) 426-6733 COMPEER.COM/GIVING-BACK

Compeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative that provides financial services, resources and expertise to champion the hopes and dreams of agriculture and rural America.

Compeer Financial, ACA is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender and Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. ©2022 All rights reserved.

HELPING THE BEEF INDUSTRY GO GET ITS GOALS EVERY SINGLE DAY.

THANK YOU, BEEF PRODUCERS. During May Beef Month and beyond, we recognize the dedication of the beef industry as it works relentlessly to feed the nation and world. Compeer Financial is proud to partner with passionate and hard-working beef producers, processors and others every day. Our team is here, helping to guide you every step of the way.

COMPEER.COM/BEEF Compeer Financial can provide assistance with finances based on historical data and industry expertise. Compeer does not provide legal, tax or investment advice.

Compeer Financial, ACA is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender and Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. © 2022 All rights reserved. NMLS #619731

Submit your photos June 1 – July 31!

PHOTO CALENDAR CONTEST Compeer Financial invites you to submit photos you’ve captured of life on the farm and in rural America for a chance to be showcased in our 2023 Photo Calendar!

Submit photos and see full contest details at: COMPEER.COM/CALENDARCONTEST Photo by Jordyn Minnaert Featured in the 2022 Photo Calendar

By submitting a photo, entrant hereby consents to the unrestricted use by Compeer Financial the use of his/her name and photo(s) for promotional or trade purposes related to Compeer Financial’s 2023 Photo Calendar, and waives the right to examine or approve the completed advertising or promotional matter that may be used in conjunction therewith. Compeer Financial, ACA is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender and Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. ©2022 All rights reserved. NMLS #619731

The Future of

FARMING

Lindsay Baneck is Compeer Financial’s 2022 GroundBreaker of the Year

HELENVILLE, Wis. – On a subzero winter day in mid-January, Lindsay Baneck has summer on her mind as she sits down with her family to sort through seed catalogs and plan orders for the upcoming growing season. Baneck farms with her parents and sisters just outside of Helenville in southeast Wisconsin. There, she operates Jelli’s Market, growing produce like strawberries, raspberries, apples, pumpkins, sweetcorn and more on 40 acres.

The site also includes a retail store where customers can buy freshly picked fruits and veggies, meats and baked goods.

The award recognizes young and beginning farmers who are overcoming obstacles, making a difference in agriculture and having a positive impact in their community.

Baneck also plays a key role in the family’s nearby operation, Maple Mound Farms, where they grow corn, soybean and wheat and raise cattle.

For Baneck, recognition as GroundBreaker of the Year is especially meaningful after her mother experienced a lifechanging medical emergency.

“A lot of farmers don’t get to work directly with their consumers, but for me it’s rewarding to see the end result of all our hard work,” Baneck said. “People come out to our farm all summer and get to see how their food is grown. My parents started this entire operation themselves, and I know we have something really special here.”

“It’s been really, really tough the last couple of years,” Baneck explained. “In 2019, my mom went into cardiac arrest, and my sisters and I saved her life. She has a brain injury as a result, and balancing her care, along with the typical challenges of farming, has been tough. Some days it feels like we are just surviving and not actually thriving.”

Not only does Baneck have a strong commitment to serving her customers, but she also has a passion and drive for the agriculture industry that exemplify what it means to be Compeer Financial’s 2022 GroundBreaker of the Year award recipient.

But, when it comes down to it, family is the driving force behind everything on the farm.

18 CULTIVATE • Summer 2022

“Lindsay inspires everyone around her,” explained Justin Foegen, Baneck’s crop insurance officer at Compeer Financial. “She knows what’s important and shows her commitment through action. She’s very involved in agriculture and the community, and has clarity on the things she believes in.”

“The number one reason I farm is because of my family,” Baneck said. “My parents poured their heart and soul into our farm, and I

have the deep desire to grow what we already have and continue this legacy.”

It’s a desire of many young and beginning farmers, one that Compeer Financial is proud to help with.

“Compeer’s support of young and beginning farmers is vital to keeping the farms of our clients going for another generation,” explained Mike Herschleb, Baneck’s financial officer at Compeer Financial.

“That’s why we have a GroundBreakers program, to connect directly with young, beginning and small farmers like Lindsay,” he continued. “She’s a great fit for our GroundBreaker award, she has big dreams and aspirations, and I’m looking forward to what the future holds for her and her farm.”

Baneck has found that her dreams and aspirations need to be supported by solid communication and a clear vision of the future.

“I’ve found open communication with family and with our employees to be the number one key to our success,” Baneck noted. “We have the space to talk about what’s working and what isn’t on the farm. And everyone has clarity on what our goals are and how we plan to achieve them.”

Left: Lindsay Baneck stands in the apple orchard, where customers are welcome to pick fresh apples in the summer. Above Middle: The farming operations encompass cattle, traditional row crops and locally grown fruits and vegetables. Above Bottom: Baneck talks with Crop Insurance Office Justin Foegen and Financial Officer Mike Herschleb about happenings on the farm. Right: Baneck’s strong dedication to the farming profession and her commitment to her community epitomize the spirit of the GroundBreaker of the Year award.

And with the next generation just arriving on the scene — Baneck and her husband Eric recently welcomed their first child — there’s even stronger hope for the future.

“My dream is to see our farm’s continued success and sustainability,” Baneck stated. “I want to ensure our story continues on.”

Nominations for the 2023 GroundBreaker of the Year will be accepted June 1 - Aug. 31, 2022.

Learn more at compeer.com/GroundBreakerOfTheYear

Summer 2022 • CULTIVATE 19

A Lasting

LEGACY Recognizing Greg Nelson’s 36 years of leadership on the Board

20 CULTIVATE • Summer 2022

ELMWOOD, Wis. — “My intention was never to farm,” Compeer Board Member Greg Nelson explained. “I was either going to teach or go into construction.” In 1974, Nelson’s plans changed when the opportunity arose to farm with his father. So with his wife and two young sons, he moved back home.

Nelson’s wife, Vicki, worked off the farm for many years, and the couple has three adult children: Scott, a doctor at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis; Chad, a registered nurse at a local hospital; and Jodi, a police officer in Madison.

PRIDE IN CONSERVATION Nelson grew up milking cows and did so until the early 2000s when he sold the dairy herd. He then started raising beef cattle while continuing to grow corn, soybeans and alfalfa.

Conservation was important to Nelson’s father and continues to be important to Nelson today.

“We want to take care of the land, so conservation is something we take very seriously and have a lot of pride in,” Nelson said. “We do no-till, cover crops and contour stripping, plus we have five conservation dams to slow the water runoff during rainfall events. We not only want to preserve our topsoil, but we also want to make sure we’re sending clean water into the trout streams around our farm.”

The Nelsons farm on what the locals refer to as the Norwegian Ridge in Elmwood, Wis. European immigrants, including Nelson’s grandfather, often settled in a similar area to those who were from the same country

or region. Nelson’s grandfather owned a blacksmith shop and started the farm the family runs today.

FARM CREDIT LEADERSHIP Much like his family’s long history in Elmwood, Nelson is a long-time leader in the Farm Credit system.

When Nelson started farming with his father, he had trouble securing the loan he needed to buy into the family business.

That’s when someone suggested he reach out to Farm Credit.

“They gave me the loan I needed to start farming, and I’ve been with Farm Credit ever since,” Nelson shared.

Nelson first became active in Farm Credit leadership when he joined the Northwest Wisconsin Production Credit Association Board of Directors in 1986, and he has since transitioned with multiple mergers to continue with the Compeer Board of Directors today.

“I’ve worn many hats on the Board,” Nelson explained. “I was chairman of the Northwest Wisconsin PCA Board and the AgStar Financial Board. I’ve served on many committees, including finance and audit. I enjoy serving, and I especially enjoy serving our Farm Credit clients.”

UPCOMING RETIREMENT At 73 years old, Nelson says it is time to slow down, adding that “a farmer never really does retire.”

He still grows corn, soybeans and alfalfa on 600 acres of owned and rented land. He

GREG NELSON

Elmwood, Wis.

• Elected to the Board in 1986 • Retiring from the Board in fall 2022 • Serves on Compeer Financial’s Enterprise Risk, Corporate Giving and Legislative Affairs committees

sold the beef cattle last fall but anticipates he will buy more this spring.

Looking back over all he has learned, Nelson has some advice for young and beginning farmers.

“I’d tell farmers who are starting out to follow these four tips: don’t be afraid to ask for advice, find a peer group, embrace technology and, of course, if you’re going to borrow money, you better keep your financial officer in the loop,” Nelson said with a chuckle. “If you keep your spouse and your financial officer happy, farming will be much easier.”

He added, “Farming is a lot of work, but you have to make time to have fun with your family because they are the most important part of your life.”

After 36 years of leadership as a member of Farm Credit boards, Nelson is set to retire from the Board this fall. Compeer has greatly benefited from Nelson’s leadership and dedication to serving our clients.

Left: Greg Nelson reflects on the changes his family’s farm has seen over the years, transitioning from milking cows to raising beef cattle. Above: The Nelson family is proud of their conservation work. Greg’s father instilled a passion in him to care for the land and other natural resources so the farm can sustain for future generations.

“I’ve truly enjoyed serving our clients all these years,” Nelson noted, “but as difficult as it is to walk away from all the friendships I’ve created, I know a young farmer will have an opportunity to step up and help guide Compeer into the future.”

Summer 2022 • CULTIVATE 21

NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS HOLIDAY HOURS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS STRUCTURE CHANGE

Compeer Financial will be CLOSED for business in observance of these holidays:

In February, the Compeer Financial Board of Directors voted to change the organization’s bylaws to reduce the number of directors on the Board from 17 to 15.

Memorial Day Independence Day Labor Day Thanksgiving Christmas Holiday

May 30 July 4 Sept. 5 Nov. 24 & 25 Dec. 26

* For your convenience, our CONTACT CENTER will be open for calls Friday, November 25 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

With the retirement of two Board members in 2022, the time is right to make this change. The result will be an even balance of four stockholder directors in each state, along with three outside appointed directors.

Given this change, stockholders will elect two Board members this fall – one from Wisconsin and one from Illinois.

Look for more information about candidates this summer and ballot distribution, including a new way to vote electronically, in September.

COMPEER CEO POSTING With the upcoming retirement of Compeer Financial President and CEO Rod Hebrink in January 2023, the organization’s Board of Directors has established a committee to build the succession and transition plan for the CEO position.

The Board is in the process of posting the position and will soon start vetting candidates who demonstrate a strong aptitude for leadership, exemplify the mission and values of Compeer Financial and have a steadfast dedication to serving our clients in agriculture and rural America.

LIFEWORKS RESOURCE PROGRAM May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we know that life in agriculture and rural America isn’t always easy. The challenges we face can sometimes feel overwhelming and stressful.

That’s why Compeer Financial is pleased to provide our clients and their families access to our LifeWorks Resource Program.

The free program confidentially connects clients with tools and resources to help them navigate challenges related to work, family, life and health – whether it’s a simple question or a more complex challenge.

Learn more about the program at compeer.com/resourceprogram.

22 CULTIVATE • Summer 2022

We will continue to keep our member-owners updated on this transition and look forward to what the future holds for our cooperative.

FUND FOR RURAL AMERICA DONATES TO FARMING FOR THE FUTURE FOUNDATION The Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America is pleased to announce a signature gift of $750,000 to the Farming for the Future Foundation and its new Food + Farm Exploration Center.

Farming for the Future’s mission is to educate current and future generations about agricultural innovation and sustainability. In spring 2022, the foundation started construction on the Food + Farm Exploration Center in Plover, Wis., which will bring Farming for the Future Foundation’s mission to life. The hands-on educational learning center will include interactive exhibits focused on various areas of farming, crop production and the latest state-of-the-art technology used in farming.

The Fund’s gift includes the naming rights to the Compeer Financial Observation Deck at the center, slated to open in 2023. The deck will overlook the acres dedicated to agriculture production and mini-pivot displays. You can learn more about the foundation and center at www.fftf.us.

INTRODUCING COMPEER’S DIGITAL CLIENT CARE TEAM As online tools continue to bring flexibility to how we work and live, figuring out how to use digital tools for the first time isn’t always easy. That’s why Compeer Financial has created a Digital Client Care Team — team members dedicated to helping clients understand the variety of digital tools Compeer offers.

offerings bring the technology and flexibility our clients want, backed by the people they trust at Compeer Financial.

Learn more about Compeer Financial’s digital tools at compeer.com/ onlineservices. To get additional assistance with our online tools, call the Digital Client Care Team at (844) 426-6733.

Compeer’s suite of online tools gives clients more options in how they do business with us. Tools like Online Banking, Mobile Banking and MyCompeer help clients manage their finances and operations, anywhere and anytime.

“Our Digital Client Care Team works closely not only with clients on how to use the tools, but also with the technical teams at Compeer Financial who are developing and refining these tools,” said Hazel Seira, who leads the new team. “We share feedback from our clients with the developers to make sure we’re providing the best possible client experience. Overall, we are intentional about letting the needs of our clients guide our path to improving and expanding our digital offerings.”

The Digital Client Care Team is composed of four team members who have expertise in Compeer’s digital technologies and strong backgrounds in serving Compeer Financial clients. Our online

Top: Compeer Financial has a new Digital Client Care Team. Bottom: Team members are (from left to right) Aaron Bartelt, Ashley Steinborn, Candice Stuefen and Nicole Silker. Each of these team members has expertise in Compeer’s digital technologies and can help clients understand the variety of tools available.

Summer 2022 • CULTIVATE 23

2600 Jenny Wren Trail PO Box 810 Sun Prairie, WI 53590

Compeer Financial, ACA is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender and Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. ©2022 All rights reserved.

Your goals. Your way.

Reimagine FLEXIBLE FINANCING with our ONLINE LOAN APPLICATIONS! You can now utilize our online applications to apply for agricultural real estate financing or an operating loan — anytime, anywhere — in as little as 10 minutes.

Because you should be able to get your goals. Your way.

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Secure an operating line of credit up to $1 million or $2.5 million in agricultural real estate funds.

COMPEER.COM/APPLYNOW (or visit compeer.com and click Apply Now)

Loan products may vary by state. There is no guarantee that all borrowers will qualify. Not all applicants will receive an instant onscreen decision; qualified applicants only.

Restrictions may apply. This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Terms, conditions and programs are subject to change without notice. Compeer Financial, ACA is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender and Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. © 2022 All rights reserved.