Vol. 31, No. 2
Delaware
January/February 2024
Farm Bureau News Celebrating 79 Years!
Local Farmers Feeding Your Family
Delegates set new policies in action
By Jennifer Antonik Delaware Farm Bureau Concerns over deer damage, solar farms, energy and electric vehicle mandates were among topics discussed Tuesday, Nov. 28, during the Delaware Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting at the Modern Maturity Center. Breakfast kicked the day off with a presentation from Scott Schuster who coordinates the Farm to School program through the Delaware Council on Farm and Food Policy. Attendees a look at why that program is important in the First State and how they could get involved with the pilot of its expansion program, Farm to Community. The group of about 80 delegates also heard from: • Delaware’s former Secretary of Agriculture Ed Kee who spoke of his current role as the chair of the Governor’s Energy Advisory Council; • Executive Director of Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility Andrew Slater who outlined programs available
DEFB's annual meeting brought about 80 delegates out to impact the agriculture industry in the First State.
•
•
and how the organization can benefit Delaware farmers; USDA Rural Development State Director for Delaware and Maryland David Baker who explained programming available through the USDA; Nationwide Board Member Sparky Weilnau who expressed appreciation for the work
•
•
of the Delaware Farm Bureau and Nationwide’s partnership with Farm Bureaus; Nationwide Sponsor Relations Account Executive Todd Givler who discussed risk and liabilities management; and American Farm Bureau Federation Economist Daniel Munch who gave an econo-
In this issue
mic overview of farming in Delaware and nationwide. Although the annual meeting is open to all Delaware Farm Bureau members who wish to attend, only active voting members can be chosen as delegates for this meeting. Voting members consist of farmer
SEE POLICIES ON PAGE 9
Delaware Farm Bureau 3457 S. Dupont Highway Camden, DE 19934
A new year for service, advocacy .......................................................... Page 2 Banquet inspires members to connect, grow .................................... Page 4 Statewide honors awarded for excellence .......................................... Page 6 Photo contest winners announced ....................................................... Page 8 Ag Week to highlight rural road safety with DEFB .......................... Page 10 DEFB members learn at Legislative Day .............................................. Page 11
2
From the President ’s desk
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
A new year for service, advocacy When the new year rolls around, we often think about resolutions and new goals. I want to encourage you to add the Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) to your list of resolutions. The work we do as an organization is important; I might even say it's Delaware Farm Bureau critical to our President Bill Powers industry here in Delaware. But the truth is — we do our best work when we do it together. We need our members to step up, now more than ever. Consider what level of commitment you could offer the agriculture industry through the work we do at the Delaware Farm Bureau. Would you be able to lend a few hours over the summer to volunteer at the Food Booth hosted by the Women's Committee at the Delaware State Fair? Or maybe you could spend a few hours helping the public learn about our work at our informational booth at the fair? Both of these opportunities require a lot of volunteers to make them successful. It works best when our membership comes together to make it happen. Or do you have more time and Delaware Farm Bureau News
Editor Jennifer Antonik jenn.antonik@defb.org 302-697-3183
talents to offer? Maybe you would like to serve on one of our committees like the Women's Committee, Promotion & Education (P&E) Committee, Membership Committee, or Legislative Committee. Each of them do fantastic work to enhance how DEFB engages with the public in a variety of ways. If you've ever been to one of our Safety Conferences typically held in the spring, for example, you might know of the work our P&E Committee does first hand as that committee hosts that conference every year. They also hosted a luncheon at Legislative Hall for lawmakers this year as a way to connect with them on a more personal level. Our Women's and Legislative Committees also do incredible work throughout the year. The Women's Committee can often be found raising funds for scholarships to help youth continue their careers in agriculture. The Legislative Committee is actively reviewing pending legislation and regulations that impact agriculture and rural Delaware. This grass roots input ensures that the DEFB message is presented accurately to lawmakers and our collective voice is heard and understood. We also have a Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee for the younger generation, offering a unique outlet for them to network and grow while having fun. I think one of my favorite things to do as the DEFB president is to connect
with our young farmers. I'm glad to see our YF&R Committee continues to grow because celebrating and cultivating that youth is how our future will thrive. You can expect to be contacted in the coming year as a part of our drive to build membership. The most effective way to gain new members is person-to-person. Each of us knows someone who is not yet a DEFB member but should be. A lot more of our friends will join us if we make a point to ask them. Looking into the new year, we have a lot of work to do in terms of advocacy. The 2018 Farm Bill, for example, was set to expire late this year. It was extended while Congress continues to deliberate on what we hope will be the 2024 Farm Bill. Here in Delaware, we have a lot of energy-related topics coming up in legislature that we need to pay close attention to moving forward. Our Executive Director Don Clifton has been actively involved in these conversations and will continue to bring agriculture into the mix. We have also done a lot of networking in the past year that could result in exciting opportunities for our members this year, so stay tuned! Thank you for your membership and dedication to agriculture. I am excited for the year to come and I'm looking forward to working side by side with our members to continue improving the industry we all know and love.
2023-2024 State Board of Directors President William “Bill” Powers, Jr. 1st Vice President Steve Breeding 2nd Vice President Paul Cartanza, Sr. County Presidents Kent: James Minner Sussex: Steve Breeding New Castle: Stewart Ramsey Young Farmers & Ranchers State Chair: Mollie Lynch Kent Chair: Michael Lynch Sussex Chair: Connor Vincent New Castle Chair: Alex Keenan Women’s Committee State Chair: Mary B. Gooden Kent Chair: Rebecca Bobola Sussex Chair: Constance Fox New Castle Chair: June Unruh Kent County Directors Bruce Dempsey Ted Bobola Jr. John Comegys Sussex County Directors Alan Bailey Laura Brittingham Cory Atkins New Castle County Directors Bruce Patrick Dave Daniels Ryan Greer
Connect with us! www.defb.org
Delaware Farm Bureau News (ISSN 10770798), published in Camden, DE, bimonthly, by Delaware Farm Bureau. Production by Delaware Printing Company. Periodicals postage paid at Camden, DE and additional offices.
Search for Delaware Farm Bureau!
Business and Editorial Offices:
Place your ad in the Delaware Farm Bureau News and reach nearly 3,000 members!
3457 S. DuPont Highway, Camden, DE 19934, 302-697-3183. Any editorial material may be reproduced with credit to this publication. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Delaware Farm Bureau News at the office above. Subscription price to members (paid as part of Farm Bureau membership dues) is $1.60. All other subscriptions are $6.50 per year.
Advertise with us!
Contact Jennifer Antonik at (302) 697-3183 or jenn.antonik@defb.org for more information!
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
3
P&E Committee: Support agritourism in Delaware
By Samantha Harrington Promotion & Education Committee Agritourism is a great way to promote and educate the public on agriculture. The state of Delaware (as well as neighboring states) has many operations where you can take your family and friends to enjoy agritourism. By combining agriculture and tourism, it educates the public on how food is grown, processed, etc. The public is able to get a close up look on methods used and hopefully are able to gain a new appreciation for the farmers and ranchers across
the country that feed the world. Not only does agritourism benefit the general public with a learning opportunity, it also benefits the agriculture operation by creating an additional revenue. Examples of Delaware agritourism include: • Pumpkin patches • Corn mazes • Hay ridess • U-pick operations (apples, blueberries, sunflowers etc.) • Petting zoos/ farm animals • Christmas tree farms (cut-
your-own) • Agriculture museums • Farmers’ markets (on - farm) • Wine tasting/ wine tours • Garden tours U-Pick orchards and fields are a very popular agritourism activity in the state of Delaware. Depending on weather, the season starts around May with strawberries and it continues into June with blueberries. By late June and into July, the summer flower fields are blooming. July and August bring blooming fields of sunflowers and ripe peaches. That
fades into apple season and then the start of pumpkin picking begins. Fall is a very busy season for Delaware agritourism. Many pumpkin patch operations can be found all over the state. Delaware agrotourism is not only a fun way for family time and learning, it’s also a wonderful way to support a local farm (most likely farm family) to have a successful operation. Invite friends and family to go on a Delaware agrotourism adventure today!
DEFB 1st vice president appointed to national committee Delaware is making waves at the & Education committees. American Farm Bureau Federation “Farm Bureau members bring thanks to a Sussex County farmer commitment and care to their comwho was chosen to sit on a national munities through engagement and committee. advocacy at every level of our orgaSteve Breeding of Seaford is nization,” said AFBF President ZipDelaware Farm Bureau’s 1st vice py Duvall. “These newly appointed president and now a member of the national program committee memAFBF’s Promotion & Education bers will focus on advancing the Committee. mission of the American Farm BuThe mission of the 10-person reau and working to build trust with committee is to develop and cen- DEFB 1st Vice President Steve consumers and others while shartralize resources that inspire and Breeding ing agriculture’s story. As engaged equip Farm Bureau to convey the grassroots leaders, they have a big significance of agriculture. Newly appointed impact.” members were announced Monday, Dec. 18 by Breeding, a beef cattle and sheep farmer, said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. the opportunity will help “put Delaware on the Farm Bureau farmer and rancher members map” while he continues to advocate for one of often play an important role by serving on gov- the state’s top industries through the P&E Comerning boards and committees at local, state and mittee. national levels. The newly appointed volunteers Along with Breeding, Duvall announced the will provide leadership beginning in 2024 as appointment of the following members to the members of the American Farm Bureau Federa- P&E Committee for the 2024-2026 term starting tion’s Young Farmers & Ranchers and Promotion in March: Rebecca Harrop, Pennsylvania (dairy
cattle); William Zalakar, New York (greenhouse production, agri-tourism and farm brewery); and Bonita Cremer, Montana (beef cattle). Amy Jo Estes, Missouri (hay and beef cattle) was reappointed for a two-year term. Ten individuals representing qualifying Farm Bureau Promotion & Education states make up the P&E Committee. Its mission is to develop and centralize resources that inspire and equip Farm Bureau to convey the significance of agriculture. “I’m looking forward to being able to bounce ideas off of people across the country. Even in the past week, I’ve gotten to know a couple of other people on this committee and we’ve created a bond,” Breeding said. “The focus, from what I understand so far, is we kind of guide Farm Bureau’s idea of where we should focus AFBF’s efforts into the actual promotion of Farm Bureau and education, where some of those education dollars should go. I’m excited to push the mission of the Farm Bureau and agriculture.” National committee members are nominated by their respective state Farm Bureaus. Learn more online at fb.org.
4
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
Annual banquet inspires attendees to connect By Jennifer Antonik Delaware Farm Bureau Nearly 200 guests filled the Modern Maturity Center Saturday, Dec. 9 as Delaware Farm Bureau members, sponsors and changemakers gathered to share a meal together. The annual Celebration of Harvest Banquet serves as a celebration, as well as a reminder, of the work that is done by members year round on their own farms and through advocacy work to improve the industry. “This is a great time for us to gather and celebrate our shared accomplishments and even meet new friends as we head into the new year,” DEFB President Bill Powers said in a letter to attendees. Led by Powers and Master of Ceremonies Mark Isaacs, the evening event featured a hearty meal catered by the Modern Maturity Center, music by Captain Mike, live and silent auctions supporting the Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee and DEFB Foundation, and many awards honoring the dedication of DEFB members and supporters. American Farm Bureau Federation’s Vice President of Public Policy Sam Kieffer gave the keynote address to attendees and highlighted the importance of advocacy work by Farm Bureau members all over the country. He spoke of the national Farm Bill which expired in September, but was eventually renewed for another year to allow Congress more time to discuss a new bill in light of changes that have happened to the economy since the pandemic. “I’m going to talk a lot about bipartisanship tonight because that’s what we need to get across the party line,” he said. “In order to get anything done in the debate, the house can’t govern alone. To get anything done in the debate, it’s got to be bipartisan. Your American Farm Bureau is working hard to get a resolution for the Farm Bill because the longer we go, the harder it will be once [presidential] candidates are chosen.” He added that the Farm Bureau is a great example of bipartisanship at work as members get together to discuss and vote on important issues each year, just as members of Congress do in Washington, D.C. “I think how Farm Bureau operates is a great model to follow. It's our job to convince the majority of our peers and at the end of the day,
Friends gather together during dinner at the DEFB's annual banquet at the Modern Maturity Center. From left to right on the bottom row: Cooper Money, June Unruh, Judy and Medford Puckett, Darrell Puckett and Laura Haney On the top row: Monica and Peter Ettinger.
William Powers, III and Delaware's Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse help J.T. Robbins auction off items during the banquet to benefit the Young Farmers & Ranchers committee.
majority rules. In the spirit of our organization, even if we disagree, we continue to row in the same direction until the next year when we try to change it again,” he said. Emphasizing the importance of not just advocacy at the state and national levels, but between neighbors, as well, Kieffer said that sharing stories is what helps the Farm Bureau continue to thrive. “I cannot tell your story. Don Clifton [DEFB executive director] cannot tell your story the way you can. I ask you to keep showing up when you can. It is important. It matters. And what also matters is visiting with your friends and neighbors and telling them what is all about,” he said. “Our team in Washington is relevant because of you and because of your counterparts. . . Tell your story and bring others with you.” For more information on the Delaware Farm Bureau or to find out how you can get involved, visit www. defb.org.
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
5
DEFB Annual Celebration of Harvest Banquet
Nancy King, Joe Parker, Kevin Rogers and Donna King wait for Jackie King's Distinguished Service to Ag honor later in the program.
Joan Powers and Rachel Chillas Pickens share a night together while celebrating agriculture.
Nick Nash, Caden Reed, Paul Satterfield, Kylie Nash, Becky Satterfield, Paul Cartanza, Jr., Kerin Hume and Colton Cartanza enjoy the festivities together at the Modern Maturity Center.
FFA State President Noah Dixon and Sentinel Joey Nowotny.
Teddy and Rebecca Bobola share a meal with Ellie (look carefully!), Mollie and Michael Lynch during the Delaware Farm Bureau's annual banquet held in December.
Master of Ceremonies Mark Isaacs speaks to attendees during the event.
Amanda and Sean Clougherty, Jacob and Melissa Urian, Ted and Maria Bobola, Jr. and Andrew Bobola talk during dinner before the program began.
DEFB President Bill Powers celebrates members during the banquet.
6
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
Statewide agriculture honors awarded in Dover By Jennifer Antonik Delaware Farm Bureau Excellence in agriculture takes time, patience, experience and a lot of elbow grease. In honor of this great work, several farming leaders were honored at the Delaware Farm Bureau's annual banquet Saturday, Dec. 9 held at the Modern Maturity Center in Dover. Mollie Lynch, chair of the Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee started off the award portion of the banquet by honoring the committee's supporter and member of the year. Casey Collier received the 2023 Member of the Year Award. Don Jackson accepted the 2023 Supporter of the Year Award on behalf of Ag-Industrial. "Without you all, we wouldn't have been as successful," Jackson said. Lynch said YF&R members and supporters alike are "hard working agriculture professionals and advocates." She said their dedication to the Farm Bureau is often done simultaneously while working full-time jobs, raising families, offering a supportive presence to the community and creating a thriving agriculture business of their own. DEFB President Bill Powers and Donna King of King Crop Insurance in Georgetown were next to the podium to announce the state winner for the Distinguished Service to Ag award for 2023 - Jackie King. Donna King proudly detailed how her little sister, Jackie King, took up the farming cause with the guidance of their mother after their father passed away, leading her to a busy insurance career focused on agriculture. Over the years, she has worked closely with 4-H and FFA groups, helping shape the next generation of agriculture. She has also advocated for farmers both in Delaware and nationally. "She knows like we do that it's very important to have a voice in every room," Donna King said of her sister's involvement in the industry. Recently, Jackie and Donna teamed up with their sisters Nancy and Bonny to create the King Foundation which preserves farming stories through audio and visu-
Distinguished Service to Ag Award recipient Jackie King celebrates her honor during the Delaware Farm Bureau's annual Celebration of Harvest Banquet. From left to right: Rep. Charlie Postles, Rep. Ron Gray, Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton, Rep. Lyndon Yearick, Rep. Richard Collins, State Treasurer Colleen Davis, Jackie King, Kevin Rogers, Donna King, DEFB President Bill Powers and Donna King.
Farm Family of the Year Award recipient Paul Cartanza, Sr. stands with family members in honor of the award.. From left to right: Paul Wooleyhand, Paul Cartanza, Jr., Kerin Hume, Taylor Cartanza, Jan and Paul Cartanza, Sr., and DEFB President Bill Powers. Colton Cartanza is holding the sign for the family.
al recordings. "This award is an honor to me and I really appreciate it. I really want to say that the distinguished people are the people in this room," Jackie King said with a nod to banquet attendees. Former Kent County Farm Bureau President Jacob Urian was invited to the podium next to honor the statewide Farm Family of the Year awardee for 2023 - Paul Cartanza, Sr. Urian called the experience humbling as he described how Cartanza watched Urian grow up on the farm. "My dad worked for Shadybrook AWARDEES CONTINUED TO PAGE 7
YF&R Chair Mollie Lynch presents Don Jackson with the YF&R Supporter of the Year Award on behalf of Ag-Industrial and Casey Collier with YF&R Member of the Year Award.
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
Young Farm Family Achievement: Excellence in Agriculture Award winners Theodore "Teddy" and Rebecca Bobola, stand with their sons Brant (holding the sign) and Theodore Bobola, along with Rep.Charlie Postles, State Treasurer Colleen Davis, Rep. Ronald Gray, Rep. Lyndon Yearick and DEFB President Bill Powers.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 Isaacs returned to the microphone Farms when I was just a young to announce the statewide winner tike. I enjoyed going down there of the new Young Farm Family Achievement: Excellence in Agriding," he said. Now it was Urian's turn to watch riculture Award - the Theodore "Teddy" Bobola family. Cartanza step up for a new ride. "This couple has had a long ten"I just want to thank you very ure in the agricultural field, even much for this award. It's been a prior to their marriage," Isaacs told long time. My father started farmattendees. ing back in the 50s and now I'm He went on to tell how both Tedable to move on to another advendy and Rebecca Bobola participatture. I'm blessed to be able to do the ed in the FFA growing up, along things I can do," Cartanza said. "I with other activities. Now, they are love my family and I'm just proud active Young Farmers & Ranchers that I have a good family and kids Committee members within the that want to work on the farm." Delaware Farm Bureau and both Along with his wife Jan, Cartanserved in leadership roles during za now owns and operates Lazy their tenure. They are also active Day Farms in Dover and is DEFB's members of their church and com2nd vice president. munity. He has also served as the chairTeddy Bobola holds a degree in man of the Delaware Potato Board agricultural business and works and currently serves on the Govfull-time on the family farm west ernor’s Council for Agriculture, of Dover where they have five Council of Farm Organizations chicken houses and more than and Kent County Farm Bureau 1,500 acres of farmland. Board. Rebecca Bobola has a degree in Lazy Day Farms currently farms fisheries and wildlife management 1200 acres, growing corn, soy- and works full-time as an environbeans, and wheat, and processing mental scientist for the Department vegetables. In 2017, they added of Natural Resources and Environa grain elevator to the operation. mental Control in the Division of Currently, they are working with Water, Wetlands and Subaqueous third and fourth generation farmers Section while also working around of Shadybrook Farms, Paul, Jr and the farm with the family. granddaughter Taylor, to dry and "It's just an honor. Thank you store grains. for this award. It's a family effort Along with everyday farming just to get my kids here," Teddy activities, the Cartanza's collabo- Bobola said with a chuckle. "It rate with researchers from the Uni- just makes me think of each genversity of Delaware so they can eration. I thank my parents for the analyze their soil to identify salini- opportunities we've had." ty concerns as a result of rising sea For more information on each levels. awardee or the Delaware Farm Master of Ceremonies Mark Bureau, visit www.defb.org.
7
8
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
DEFB Photo Contest winners announced at banquet By Jennifer Antonik Delaware Farm Bureau A young girl with pink rain boots and a blue, floral dress stands on a gate watching cows in the pasture at sunset with chicken houses, hay bales and forestry in the background. This photo was the picturesque agricultural landscape captured by Alyssa Cowan, earning first place in the Delaware Farm Bureau Promotion & Education Committee’s annual photo contest. Cowan joins a host of other talented amateur photographers who earned awards through the program and were honored for their accomplishments at the DEFB annual banquet Saturday, Dec. 9 at the Modern Maturity Center in Dover. Other winning images included livestock, farming equipment, patriotic scenes and other agricultural topics. The photo contest opened in May this year and ran through Oct. 31, 2023. All photo contest
winners received a certificate and winning entries will be displayed at the Delaware Farm Bureau state office in Camden and the Delaware Agriculture Museum in Dover. Top Awardees include: • Alyssa Cowan, first place and $200 • April Doyle, second place and $150 • Leanne Garrett, third place and $100 • Liz Davis, fourth place and $50 Honorable Mentions include: • Kristen Kemp • Amanda Strouse • Dennis Wimer, III • Jennifer Carlson • Laura Larimore • Robert Willoughby, Jr. The 2024 contest will begin in May. For more information or to get involved with the Promotion & Education Committee, visit Alyssa Cowan's photo depicting farm life won first place in the Delaware defb.org or call the state office at Farm Bureau's annual Photo Contest run by the Promotion & Education 302-697-3183. Committee.
April Doyle, second place
Liz Davis, fourth place
Leanne Garrett, third place
9
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 (regular) members and professionally engaged members. With the help of parliamentarian Donald Bullock, DEFB President Bill Powers and 1st Vice President Steve Breeding facilitated discussions about resolutions delegates wished to bring to the group after lunch. Passed resolutions are added to the organization’s policy book which helps guide staff and volunteers as they work to advocate for the needs of Delaware farmers. Passed resolutions include: Res. to Pursue Opportunities for Delaware Agriculture in Future State Biofuels Policy BE IT RESOLVED the Delaware Farm Bureau advocates for a Mid-Atlantic regional initiative including state governments, agricultural advocacy organizations, private sector distributors, commodity groups, and other appropriate stakeholders to develop and implement a regional strategy for the production, distribution, and utilization of renewable fuels and biofuels of agricultural derivation. Res. to Require Solar Decommissioning Bonding BE IT RESOLVED the Delaware Farm Bureau, insists that the General Assembly pass legislation requiring that companies contracting to install solar electric generating infrastructure on farmland post a bond which will accomplish full decommissioning and restoration of the site to agricultural production capacity. Res. to Advocate for the Continuation of Sussex County Power Plants Operations and the Promotion of Coal Energy as an Emergency Option in Delaware BE IT RESOLVED that the undersigned Delaware Farm Bureau strongly urges the government of the State of Delaware to take the necessary actions to ensure the continued operation of the statewide Power Plants; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the government is encouraged to recognize the importance of coal energy as a reliable and low-carbon option, especially in the context of emergency preparedness and response; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the government is called upon to work collaboratively with relevant stakeholders, including energy experts, environmental organiza-
tions, and the public, to address any concerns related to the statewide Power Plant's operation and to develop strategies for promoting the responsible use of coal energy in the state; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Delaware, members of the state legislature, relevant state agencies, and other key decision-makers to ensure its widespread awareness and consideration Res. to Enable Farmers to Utilize Their Own Carbon Credits for Emissions Management BE IT RESOLVED that: 1. We, the undersigned, urge the government to revise existing regulations and policies related to carbon credit trading, allowing farmers to utilize their surplus carbon credits for offsetting their own emissions without the need to sell or purchase additional credits. 2. We call upon the government to establish a transparent and accessible system that enables farmers to accurately measure, report, and verify their carbon sequestration activities, ensuring the integrity of the carbon credit system. 3. We encourage the government to provide technical and financial support to farmers for implementing sustainable agricultural practices, including those aimed at carbon sequestration, thereby enhancing their ability to generate carbon credits. 4. We advocate for the development of awareness campaigns and educational initiatives to inform farmers about the benefits of sustainable farming practices, carbon credit generation, and their rights to use these credits for emissions management. 5. We request the government to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including agricultural organizations, environmental agencies, and carbon market experts, to formulate guidelines and best practices that facilitate the seamless utilization of carbon credits by farmers.
6. We emphasize the importance of ongoing evaluation and adjustment of policies and regulations to ensure that farmers are adequately supported in their efforts to combat climate change through sustainable agricultural practices. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to relevant government authorities, policymakers, agricultural organizations, and environmental agencies to garner support and facilitate the necessary changes in regulations, promoting a more sustainable and climate-friendly agricultural sector Res. to Recognize Deer as Pests and Provide Crop Damage Compensation, Farmer Protection BE IT RESOLVED that: 1. The government acknowledges deer as pests when they cause damage to agricultural crops and farmlands. 2. Farmers are permitted to declare and report crop damages caused by deer to relevant agricultural, environmental and wildlife authorities for compensation and support. 3. Legal protections are established to safeguard farmers from termination or legal consequences when protecting their crops from wildlife intrusion, including deer. 4. Adequate funding and resources are allocated to assist farmers in implementing effective wildlife management practices to mitigate crop damage caused by deer. 5. Public awareness campaigns are initiated to educate the public about the challenges faced by farmers due to wildlife intrusion and the importance of responsible wildlife management. 6. Government agencies, agricultural organizations, and wildlife conservation groups collaborate to develop and implement sustainable solutions to manage deer populations and minimize their impact on agricultural lands. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be sent to relevant government agencies, agricultural organizations, wildlife
conservation groups, and legislative representatives to advocate for the recognition of deer as pests and the protection of farmers' rights in managing wildlife intrusion
Res. to Advocate Against Mandating Electric Vehicles in Delaware BE IT RESOLVED that we, the undersigned individuals, organizations, and stakeholders, express our deep concerns regarding the proposed mandate of electric vehicles for areas. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge the government to consider the following factors before proceeding with any such mandate: 1. Electrical Infrastructure: The government must prioritize and invest in improving electrical infrastructure in areas to ensure that residents have access to reliable and sufficient charging facilities. 2. Comprehensive Impact Assessment: We call on the government to conduct a comprehensive impact assessment to identify potential disadvantages and unintended consequences of mandating electric vehicles in rural areas. This should include examining the impact on local economies, small businesses, and the general well-being of residents. 3. Local Input: The government should engage with local communities, businesses, and residents to ensure their voices are heard and their concerns are taken into account before implementing any mandate. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we will actively engage in lobbying efforts, public awareness campaigns, and advocacy activities to ensure that these concerns are addressed and that the government makes informed decisions regarding the potential mandate of electric vehicles in areas. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be transmitted to relevant government agencies, elected officials, and other stakeholders to facilitate constructive dialogue and collaboration on this critical issue. For more, visit www.defb.org.
10
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
Del. Ag Week: Safety a priority for DEFB, state By Jennifer Antonik Delaware Farm Bureau Ag safety will be among topics highlighted at the upcoming Delaware Ag Week event held at the Delaware State Fairgrounds Monday, Jan. 8 through Thursday, Jan. 11. In partnership with the Delaware Office of Highway Safety and Delaware Association of Chiefs of Police, the Delaware Farm Bureau will offer a presentation on rural road safety for farmers during Ag Week to help keep safety in the forefront for attendees. This presentation is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 6-8 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall at the Delaware State Fairgrounds. The Improving Road Safety for Farm Equipment – It’s Up to All of Us presention will include the following topics: • The worst actually can happen, • Your responsibility and liability under the law, • The traffic is crazy out there, • Enhanced hazard lighting for your equipment, • Effectively escorting your equipment, • Working proactively with law enforcement, and
•
Achieving peace of mind and safe travels. “I have personally had several near misses on the roadways when moving equipment. We have to accept that the public doesn’t fully understand the potential danger. We need to plan in a way that minimizes our risk and theirs at the same time,” DEFB Executive Director and farmer Don Clifton said. “The reality is that every step we take to ensure the safety of ourselves, our workers, and our community is an important one. It could save lives.” In recent years, the Delaware Farm Bureau’s Promotion and Ed-
ucation Committee successfully advocated for the inclusion of rural road safety topics in the state driver’s education manual and test so new drivers have a better understanding of what might meet them on rural roads in the First State. This includes the use of the slow-moving vehicle (SMV) emblem and what to do if a driver encounters a farm vehicle while on the road. The committee also created a brochure on the topic which is displayed at all Department of Motor Vehicle locations in Delaware. “We need to continually bring these topics up to farmers and the
public because they are vitally important. I’m grateful that the Office of Highway Safety and the Association of Chiefs of Police are partnering with us. We share the same goals when it comes to road safety,” Clifton said. Ag Week is planned and presented by the Delaware Department of Agriculture, University of Delaware Cooperative Extension and Delaware State University Cooperative Extension. For more information on Ag Week offerings, visit https://sites. udel.edu/delawareagweek/. For more information on the Delaware Farm Bureau, visit www.defb.org.
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
11
Delaware Farm Bureau members pose for a photo after attending the organization's first Legislative Day in Dover.
Legislative workshop focuses on bipartisanship By Jennifer Antonik Delaware Farm Bureau Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) members attended a tour of historic Legislative Hall and a legislative workshop Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023 when they met in Dover to hear how grassroots advocacy can benefit agriculture. The meeting began with attendees seated at the working desks of Delaware senators while receiving a fascinating presentation from a First State Heritage Park historian including Delaware historical highlights and a tour of Legislative Hall itself. The mural artwork inside the Senate and House chambers depicts important scenes from all three counties and important events from our past which were explained. Chief Clerk of the House Richard Puffer and Senate Secretary Ryan Dunphy provided an overview of the inner workings of the General Assembly. They described how bills are introduced, assigned to the appropriate committees, and voted on in each chamber. They also gave a navigation of the General Assembly website which contains a wealth of current information and through which citizens can watch live proceedings. A bipartisan panel including Senate Pro Tempore David Sokola, Senate Majority leader Bryan Townsend, Senate Minority Leader Gerald Hocker, and House Minority Whip Lyndon Yearick shared with more than 25 DEFB members seated in the House chamber how they work together to guide legislation through the House and Senate to eventually be presented to
Governor Carney for signature. To the surprise of many attendees, and indeed the panelists themselves, 71 percent of all legislation voted on by the House and 83 percent of all legislation voted on by the Senate passed unanimously during the session ending June 30, 2023. The panel listened as DEFB members expressed their observations and concerns about a number of current issues facing Delaware agriculture. Each of the panelists had a chance to respond and express their hope that communication would continue between DEFB and all the elected members of the General Assembly. “I really thought that was extremely valuable. I hope you got a sense of how the leaders from the two parties do work together. I think that’s a little bit illuminating. Too often in the press, the impression is that they’re at each other’s throats all the time and that’s just not the case,” DEFB Executive Director Don Clifton told members in attendance. Several members expressed appreciation for the event and thanked the leaders for taking time to visit with them. “Thanks for pulling this together. It was really nice and a great opportunity for them [the legislators] to come and interact with us. I appreciate the effort that went into this. I think it’s certainly valuable,” Mark Isaacs said. “I think the more we can be heard in here, the more we can sustain a voice for agriculture.” The event also included a legislative report from Clifton who explained how DEFB has engaged
legislators over the past two sessions. Senator Bryan Townsend encouraged feedback from the grassroots advocacy efforts of both individuals and groups like the Delaware Farm Bureau. “The legislature has the authority as far as passing laws,” he said.
“It doesn’t always work out as intended. Believe me, there’s plenty of balance. . . but you’re not alone out there when it comes to some of this stuff. There are other who share your concerns. Please don’t be shy about sharing.” The workshop was the first of what is intended as an ongoing series.
12
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
Wreaths Across America
Mary Bea Gooden, and Mollie Lynch, holding Ellie, helped the Delaware Farm Bureau's Women Committee place wreaths on graves through Wreaths Across America at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro.
THE BEST DEAL ON HEARING AIDS AND CARE
Welcome Delaware Farm Bureau Members As a member of the Delaware Farm Bureau, you have access to the Great Hearing Benefits (GHB) program. GHB provides family members access to hearing care and hearing aids at discounted rates.
cts
aA
du
br
Ja
with up to 3 family members
Me m
5,000+ Locations Nationwide
3-Year Warranty and Service
40% OFF
To
Share Your Benefits
Pricing on Prescriptive Hearing Aids
r Savings U be
p
Free 60-Day Hearing Aid Trial
on
Up to 50% Off Retail
u dio P
ro
v
Call Now to Schedule Your Appointment (877) 680-7805
greathearingbenefits.com/farm-bureau/delaware © 2023 GN Hearing A/S. Great Hearing Benefits is a registered company owned by GN Hearing A/S. All rights reserved.
REFERRAL CODE: DEFBDFBNWI23
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
13
STAND TOGETHER,
Stay Together.
WE’RE MORE THAN CROP INSURANCE Daisey insurance is a full service LOCAL Insurance Agency offering Life and Health Insurance Medicare Benefits Retirement, Employee Benefits and of course Crop Insurance! You can trust us for all your insurance needs!
For over 100 years, we’ve been standing together with farmers like you by providing reliable financial services. We wouldn’t have it any other way. Give us a call to speak with a relationship manager today.
888.339.3334 | HorizonFC.com
NMLS# 452721
We are licensed in Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.
D
Medicare Disclaimer: We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
DAISEY INSURANCE INC. 8959 Fruitland Avenue Bridgeville, DE 19933
302-337-9400
Fax 302-337-9404 - harry.daiseyinsinc@comcast.net Dukes Moore Insurance Agency
14
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
Cahall: Conversations make claim process easier To Nationwide Insurance agent John (Buddy) Cahall, communication is the cornerstone when it comes to insurance, from setting up a policy all the way through the claims process. Buddy is an agent with Crow Insurance Agency based out of Middletown, Delaware. With many farmers as clients, he has the advantage of his own background in agriculture. Formerly a dairy farmer, his family still operates Chesterville Bridge Farm LLC in Maryland growing grains, soybeans, and occasionally processing vegetables. His understanding of his clients’ needs is an asset when it comes to setting up a good insurance strategy. Cahall became interested in becoming an insurance agent after a conversation with a neighbor, Roy Crow, during one of the cyclical downturns for the dairy industry. Crow had previously been a dairyman himself. He had bought an insurance agency in Middletown in 2001. “There were very low profits in dairy at that time in the early 2000s. If you have enough of those years when you see yourself sliding backwards and your buildings need major repair... it’s a tough business. There’s too much work and responsibility in it to not receive a profit,” Cahall said. “So I met with him, he was an example. He was a former dairy farmer. He was doing alright with the insurance business, but needed some help and that’s where I came into it. I could speak the language and understood it from a farmer’s point of view,” he added. Since 2006, Cahall has helped farmers find just the right coverage for them so if a claim situation occurs, they can continue their operation without interruption. “When a loss adjuster works a claim, it’s not about the money. They are looking for a basis in the policy to pay the claim. It’s about the language in the policy that enables them to cover it. If it’s there, they’re going to pay it, but their hands are tied if it’s not there,” Cahall said. “Usually, if a claim is denied, a lot of times it’s because of miscommunication or lack of communication. The farmer might have thought they had coverage for something that they didn’t. I’ve experienced that with people
Buddy Cahall, AFIS Agribusiness & Crop Insurance Specialist
on claims before.” He emphasized the importance of the initial conversations between an agent and client when they should dive into every detail about the farming operation, so miscommunication never occurs in the first place. “When I’m asked to quote somebody, I’d really like to come out and meet you. I’m going to come out to your address, sit down with you and ask questions. Where are you? Are you spreadout? Is this your working location? What dwellings do you have here? Tell me about your equipment. Tell me about the unique things you do? It’s a lot of information,” he explained. “Nationwide’s a good company. They’re top of the line. One of the beauties of Nationwide, especially in this area, is that we have a multi-state policy available which some farmers could benefit from. We just need to have those conversations so we’re all on the same page.” In his experience, adding equipment and names of people or entities associated with the farm, he said, were some of the crucial pieces of information sometimes missed in the information collecting process for new insurance clients. Cahall recalled a claim in New Jersey that almost resulted in no coverage because of that very prob-
lem. A farmer had been operating farm equipment while working in a field of standing rye; they drove at full speed into an irrigation riser which he didn’t know was on the farm at all. The owner called Cahall, upset because he thought the piece of farm equipment used in the field was not covered under his insurance policy. “I didn’t remember hearing about that [equipment] at all. The owner called me the next morning upset that it wasn’t on there. I thought I had missed something,” he said. Luckily for the client, a category had been built in the policy for miscellaneous equipment. The result was we had established coverage for the farmer in that case. “This claim had a $5,000 limit per item. In the end, he was thrilled to have that. Now we know to put in a small blanket for the things they forgot to tell us about,” Cahall said. “It worked out in the end and then we all learned from it. And now that client, when they’re purchasing something new, they call me on the way home and that’s the way it should be. We’ve seen it where items weren’t listed
because they were forgotten and that’s really on the farmer, not the dealer.” In-depth conversations with the farmer is incredibly important to Cahall when starting a new policy and maintaining existing policies. Speaking with the younger generations is just as important, he encouraged. “I try to encourage them to involve their younger generation if they’re working with them now. My dad did and I benefited from it. I knew who our insurance agent was. If they have any interest in that business and you’re helping them to take it over, I’m all for them coming in to an annual review. They can have my cell phone number; they can call me,” he said. "And then God forbid something happens to their parents, they’re not out in the blue about who I am. They can pick up the phone and call me and we can go on forward. Communication is key. Develop that relationship. You will be better off for it.” For more information about Nationwide Insurance or to reach Buddy Cahall, visit https://www. crowinsuranceteam.com/
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
15
Farmland lease relationships: Landowner and lessee The following information is provided by Nationwide®, the #1 farm and ranch insurer in the U.S.* Farmland value and productivity go hand in hand. But when farmland is leased on a year-to-year basis, it can be difficult to make the improvements necessary to maintain both. “True improvements to the farm including things like installing drainage tile or irrigation, establishing waterways and building soil health can take years to implement and pay off,” said Nationwide Risk Management Consultant and agronomy specialist Derek Hommer. “If a landowner is leasing the farm year-to-year, there is limited incentive for the lessee to invest in those types of improvements.” Multi-year farmland lease agreements can be a win-win for both parties. Not only do they help build trust and cement relationships, long-term commitments between landowner and lessee are good for the land – both in terms of farmland value and productivity. Start with good alignment Developing a good relationship starts with alignment. A farmland owner’s goal often depends on how involved he or she is in the operation of a farm. Some see farmland as a basic financial investment, while others want to be more involved in what happens on the land. As a
lessee, it’s important to align with your landowner’s preferences in forging a strong relationship. “Some absentee landowners will leave all of the operational decisions to the lessee; others want to stay informed about things like what’s planted and how crops are managed. Today I see many landlords who require operational practices such as no-till, cover cropping and grid soil sampling,” Hommer said. “Aligning how the lessee manages leased acres with the landowner’s preferences and wishes helps build trust and a good long-term relationship.” Understand each other’s needs Once aligned, it’s important to level set on needs. If land is leased on a crop-share basis, for example, the landowner may have specific requests on how crops are managed and marketed. Decisions on things like production systems and how grain is marketed are typically made after consulting the landowner if he or she is actively engaged in the operation. “If you’re leasing farmland, have the conversation with your landowner, make sure you understand the farm's history and the landowner's goals. Doing so enables you to make informed decisions and engage him or her in exactly the right way,” Hommer said. “That will demonstrate that you not only care about the health and productivity of the
land but want to do what the landowner wants and needs. That’s a great way to cement a strong relationship.” Tips to demonstrate good land stewardship Land improvements aren’t always major year-over-year efforts. Lessees can do simple things to show they are fully invested in caring for the land. A comprehensive approach to being a good steward of rented farmland includes: • Matching cropping plans to the landowner’s wishes • Creating a conservation plan that ensures the long-term productivity of the land • Keeping farmland clean and in good order • Keeping up the land’s appearance by things like mowing ditches and fencerows • Implementing sustainable practices that reduce the landowner’s risk by things like minimizing erosion and improving water quality • Communicating positive farmland outcomes to the landowner, like strong crop yields “Don’t overlook some of the ‘little things’ you can do as a lessee to demonstrate your care of the leased land. Sometimes, that means things like mowing road ditches,” Hommer said. “Things like that can go a
long way in instilling confidence in a landowner that you have genuine care for the land. Keep up the hard work year after year Sustaining a strong relationship over time requires assessing how you’re meeting the other’s needs, both personally and financially. That attention normally creates the trust that’s essential to long-term lease agreements. “Landowners and lessees should consider one another business partners,” Hommer said. “Just like your accountant, agronomist and legal advisor, your landowner or lessee should be considered part of your farm team.” Visit AgInsightCenter.com for more resources and expert tips on trending topics to help you run a successful business and maintain the safety of your operation. [1] *A.M. Best Market Share Report 2021. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2023 Nationwide
16
Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2024
Protect your next Whether you’re focused on business success, family security or community prosperity, Nationwide® can help you constantly evolve to ensure a bright future.
To learn more, visit nationwide.com/dfb Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. The Farm Bureau, FB and the FB National logo are trademarks of the American Farm Bureau Federation and are used with permission under license by Nationwide. © 2021 Nationwide AFC-0315DE.1 (12/21)