Delaware Farm Bureau News Jan/Feb 2025

Vol. 32, No. 2

Delaware

January/February 2025

Farm Bureau News

Celebrating 81 Years!

Local Farmers Feeding Your Family

DEFB hosts conference with policy, education, celebration

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau The Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) celebrated its 80th anniversary with its first multi-day conference on Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Modern Maturity Center in Dover. The event featured the annual meeting of delegates, educational sessions, and the annual banquet, bringing together members, legislators, and industry professionals to celebrate and advance agriculture in Delaware.

Annual Meeting of Delegates The conference began on Friday with delegates from each county convening to discuss policy initiatives. As a grassroots organization, DEFB uses the annual meeting to address members' concerns and aspirations. Delegates proposed and voted on policy resolutions to be incorporated into the DEFB policy book, which guides the organization’s legislative efforts.

This year, delegates passed resolutions focused on supporting the next generation of farmers, preserving

agricultural land, and advocating for Delaware’s diverse agricultural community. Extensive discussions on deer damage led to the adoption of several policies aimed at mitigating its impact.

The business meeting culminated with the reelection of officers President Bill Powers, First Vice President Steve Breeding, and Second Vice President Paul Cartanza, Sr. For more information on the Annual Meeting, refer to page 5.

Friday Educational Sessions Friday afternoon featured a series of educational breakout sessions hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), and the Water Supply Coordinating Council (WSCC) Austin Large, Senior Director of Membership and Organization Development for AFBF gave an interactive and informative talk on connecting with generational populations in Farm Bureau membership.

Large, asked Delaware Farm Bure-

Mollie and Michael Lynch and Teddy and Rebecca Bobola attended the DEFB Annual Meeting as delegates for Kent County. au leaders and members to observe a Chair, was having an environment generation other than their own and where children are welcome at reflect on the attributes that make YF&R meetings to make it easier for that generation unique. Then mem- parents to make that commitment. bers and DEFB leaders discussed Jay Baxter of the Sussex County what generations they observed and Farm Bureau Board also chimed ways they could cater membership in to stress the importance not only initiatives to bring value to them of multigenerational membership specifically. One specific example but also the value of membership given by Will Powers, DEFB YF&R CONTINUED TO PAGE 6

In this issue

Delaware Farm Bureau 3457 S. Dupont Highway Camden, DE 19934

DEFB Annual Meeting Page 5

DEFB Annual Banquet Page 7

P&E Photo Contest Winners Page 11

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From the President ’s desk

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

Powers re-elected as DEFB President I am deeply honored and excited to serve as the Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) President for another term. For those of you I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting yet, I look forward Bill Powers to connecting DEFB President with you at a future event! My family operates Powers Farm in Townsend, DE—a direct-to-consumer farm market offering fresh produce, eggs, beef, turkey, and much more. As a lifelong Farm Bureau member, I am grateful to have raised my children within this incredible organization. I still fondly remember the days when they sat under the table during board meetings.

This year, I am especially proud of my son, Will, who has stepped into a leadership role as the Young Farmers and Ranchers State Chair.

I can’t wait to see the positive impact he will make on the committee!

The past year has been a remarkable one for DEFB, particularly in our legislative efforts. We were highly active in Legislative Hall, monitoring bills that could impact agriculture. We advocated for those aligning with our values and opposed those that did not. For a detailed legislative report by our lobbyist, Don Clifton, please visit

defb.org/152nd-general-assembly-report Looking ahead to the 153rd General Assembly, we are already making strides. Our first initiative is a draft bill addressing Ag Structures exemptions, which aims to resolve significant tax issues farmers faced during last year’s reassessment process. If you are concerned about the reassessment, please reach out to Sydnie Grossnickle at Sydnie.Grossnickle@defb.org and she can connect you with resources to help.

In 2024, we ramped up our membership efforts to recruit and retain more members. Each county hosted unique membership events, including a cornhole tournament in Sussex County, a Crab Feast in Kent County, and a Beef and Beer Fundraiser in New Castle County.

Additionally, DEFB organized a networking event at the Delaware

Agriculture Museum, where members connected with legislators and industry professionals. We plan to host a similar event this year and hope to see you there!

To mark DEFB’s 80th anniversary, we held our first multi-day conference, offering members valuable information for both their farm operations and personal development. I am thrilled with the outcome of our annual meeting, where delegates made impactful updates to our policy book. I’m incredibly grateful for their trust in electing me to another term as DEFB President, a role I cherish deeply. Planning for next year’s conference is already underway, so keep an eye out later this year for details!

If you’d like to learn more about our initiatives or get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at bill.powers@defb.org.

President Bill Powers with his wife, Joan Powers, at the annual banquet.

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

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The Zipline Sharing Your Story from Inside Your Fencerows

Zippy Duvall American Farm Bureau Federation President

Over the years, I have shared how my dad encouraged me to get outside my fencerows to make a difference on my family farm and beyond. That’s been a guiding principle for me as I think about how I can continue to share my farm’s story and yours with folks who do not have much—if any—experience with agriculture. Often, sharing our story and getting outside our fencerows means leaving the farm to meet with people where they are— from the market down the road to the local chamber of commerce to your state capital all the way to the White House. Sometimes, getting “outside your fencerows” actually

means staying on your farm and inviting the public and policymakers to see firsthand how farmers care for our land and animals.

America’s farmers and ranchers have such a great story to share, and it’s critical for the public to better understand what goes into growing the food, fiber and renewable fuel that drives our nation. Our research shows that the public trusts farmers, but we should never take that trust for granted. We need to be actively building on that trust by reaching out and inviting folks to see what modern agriculture looks like. And that kind of engagement yields even greater trust. Our research shows that trust increases by 20% for adults who have some level of personal experience with a farmer or rancher. What’s more, those who have had an opportunity to engage with or meet a farmer, are much more likely to have a positive perception about farming, including how farmers care for their animals and the environment.

What does it look like to bring the public inside your fencerows? Perhaps you can host a school group or another community focused event on your farm, like a farm-totable dinner. You can also extend

a personal invitation to local leaders to visit your farm to help them see how vital agriculture is to our communities and our country.

I also believe it’s important for me to practice what I preach. So recently, I had the pleasure of hosting the acting director of EPA’s Office of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Ms. Venus Welch White, on my family farm. She stopped by on a trip through the area to see firsthand how we have restored the land on my family’s farm.

While it would have been much easier to schedule a chat in Washington, the impact would not have been the same. Rather than just telling Ms. White how we have restored our farmland since I was a boy, I was able to show her the green pastures on my farm and the healthy cattle grazing there. She saw the results of three generations of work to turn unproductive land into rolling hills that now support livestock while reducing erosion.

We were also able to hop in a truck and visit my neighbor down the road for her to see a dairy farm and the sustainable practices in place there. And more importantly, now she has farms and faces to

think of when she is working on policy and regulations in Washington. Farm visits like this also build stronger working relationships with government officials, while providing them with the real-world examples they need to consider when weighing policy decisions.

As we head into a new year, with a new Congress and a new administration, it’s important for us to engage. Let’s invite more leaders, lawmakers, and government officials out to our farms and ranches to get their boots dirty. It’s critical for folks in Washington, and in your state and local governments, to get to see firsthand how the rules, regulations, and programs they are working on impact farms like mine and yours.

There’s just no substitute for getting outside the office and onto a farm or ranch to see firsthand how farmers care for our land and animals. I’d like to amend my dad’s advice to me. Yes, let’s keep on getting outside our fencerows, but let’s also find ways to bring others in to see all the hard work and care that goes on inside our fencerows to keep our food supply safe, sustainable and secure.

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

Catch up with the counties

Farm Bureau has been busy fighting for you From my family to yours, I hope that you had a happy and safe holiday season!

At Farm Bureau we had a busy 2024 and expect an even busier 2025. For De- Stewart Ramsey laware Farmers New Castle County that participate in Farm Bureau Prescrop insurance, ident Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) was instrumental in reducing the cost of insurance. The changes a bill drafted by DEFB and signed in July made to crop insurance will have a significant impact on the vast majority of producers. The need for this has been highlighted by the devastatingly dry conditions experienced throughout the state.

As we look toward the new year one of the hot issues is the revised real-estate assessments from the county. We predicted the process would be mired with problems and confusion, and it has surpassed our predictions in that regard. In response to these challenges, I, along with other Farm Bureau staff and members, have helped farm property ow-

ners prepare for meetings with Tyler Technologies and will soon be providing similar help preparing for appeals at the county level. Please understand that an appeal at the county level could be your only solution to an erroneously high assessment value.

At this very minute I’m reaching out to legislators to request a detailed report for each property assessment be sent prior to the county issuing their assessment values and ultimately your next tax bill. Basically this will provide you with the information to produce an appeal or to decide whether an appeal is warranted.

In a bit of a parallel track, DEFB is working on state wide legislation to provide tax relief for producers with significant structures (barns, buildings, etc ) on their property. Please understand the Farm Bureau stands behind the county's right to tax residential properties whether they are on a farm or not. To put these structures' tax in perspective, the top 10% of farms pay 90% of the tax collected from agriculture.

Lastly, providing farmers and other members the opportunity to connect in social and business settings is an important part of what we are about.

Over the past 12 months we conduc-

ted several events to provide these opportunities including 5K charity races, county and state banquets, and our first ever Beef and Beer Fundraiser. Mark your calendar as we have a tentative date of Saturday August 9, 2025 for our second annual Beef and

Beer at the Odessa Fire Hall.

I’m always available by phone, text or email, so don’t hesitate to reach out with question or concerns.

My email is stewart@ramseysfarm. com.

Stewart Ramsey, with wife Wendy Ramsey, welcomes any questions you have about Farm Bureau!

KCFB sets focus on member value Hopefully, you have your crop work completed and had a very good holiday season with your your family. It has been a rough year in farm country with low commodity Jim Minner prices and high Kent County Farm input costs; it Bureau President has put a damper on the mood of everyone. We can only hope for an uptick in our farm economy to help elevate to the hope for the 2025 growing season.

Here in the Farm Bureau arena, we are busy planning for the new year. The single largest issue we are going to be working on this year is the Ag Structures Bill. After

what Kent County experienced this year with the new tax structure, we need to get these farm structures reduced or eliminated from county taxation. Our state office and State Farm Bureau President will be actively working on this with our Legislators in the State House and County Governments. We have started planning for our 2nd Annual Kent County Crab Feast as an effort to recruit more new members and offer something fun to do for our existing members. If you attended last year and have any suggestions to improve the event, please let me know.

We are also working with the University of Delaware to set up more of the Delaware Grain Marketing Club meetings to help us navigate the 2025 growing season.

If you haven’t already attended these meetings, please do as they are very informative. We normally have good speakers, who are active and knowledgeable traders in commodities that provide valueable insight into what is driving the markets and where they are heading.

The Women's Committee is starting the planning process for the Delaware State Fair Food Concessions Booth. I am very active in the Food Booth as well; and as always, we will need help at the Delaware State Fair, so please consider making time now to assist. It takes quite a few people to run this booth. The more we have helping, the easier the work load is for each person working. The work from this booth supplies funds for ag

scholarships to local college bound students.

We are still working to increase our membership in our county.

Since I have been County President, I have always advocated to gain young members into the organization and to have them actively engaged in our County Farm Bureau business. The work we do legislatively lays the groundwork for their future, so we encourage them to have a voice to pave a successful path. In closing, we have a lot of work to get done this year with more being added all the time. I will continue to try my best to serve this county to the best of my ability. I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday season and stays warm this winter!

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

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SCFB is planning for a successful 2025 The start of a new year is a perfect opportunity to reflect and plan for the future, and Sussex County Farm Bureau is doing just that. Our board is meeting to discuss and Steve Breeding develop a strate- Sussex County Farm gic plan focused Bureau President on legislation and membership. We recognize that there is always room for improvement, and our goal is to better represent farmers’ needs while providing members with a more fulfilling Farm Bureau experience.

As a grassroots organization,

it’s essential that our members feel welcome and supported in Sussex County. A positive county experience is often the foundation for deeper involvement in the organization. We hope that our plans for 2025 will help increase member engagement in Sussex County.

Looking back at 2024, we are proud of our work. We held a successful corn hole tournament to help drive membership. Those that participated had a nice afternoon playing corn hole and enjoying the company of others who share a passion for agriculture.

We also organized our county Farm Bureau’s first legislative bus tour. Legislators and their staff joined Farm Bureau members to visit Willard’s Agri-Service, Vincent

Farms, and Parsons Farm. The event was well-received, and we’re excited to plan another tour in the future.

I’m especially grateful for the members who volunteered at the DEFB Women’s Committee Food Booth during the Delaware State Fair. This booth relies on volunteers, and we plan to continue supporting it this year. Please keep this in mind as we look for volunteers this summer!

Sussex County was home to the DEFB Foundation’s Lace Up for Ag Literacy Run at Hopkins Farm Creamery. It was nice to see so many Sussex County members participating to support the Foundation.

On a personal note, I’m honored to represent Sussex County at the AFBF Convention. As a member of

the National Promotion and Education Committee, I’ll be leading a presentation on mental health—a topic that’s deeply personal to me.

This past March, I faced significant mental health challenges after losing my barn, along with my sheep and everything inside. Many farmers experience similar struggles but rarely talk about them. For me, opening up was key to my recovery.

One of my goals for the new year is to promote mental health resources and serve as support for those in need.

If you have any questions about Sussex County Farm Bureau or the Promotion and Education Committee, feel free to reach out! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season!

Delaware Farm Bureau delegates address key agricultural issues at annual meeting

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau Concerns about deer damage, agricultural land preservation, and animal welfare were among the top topics discussed by delegates at the Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) Annual Meeting of Delegates on Friday, Dec. 13, at the Modern Maturity Center in Dover.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast, setting the tone for a productive day of discussions and decision-making. Over 70 delegates from Delaware’s three counties convened to prepare for the year ahead.

DEFB President Bill Powers welcomed attendees, including representatives from industry organizations, FFA, 4-H, government agencies, and Nationwide Insurance. While the meeting was open to all, only active regular members—farmers and those professionally engaged in agriculture—could serve as voting delegates for their counties.

Following reports from DEFB leadership, delegates began their policy work under the guidance of DEFB First Vice President Steve Breeding with assistance from Parliamentarian Donald Bullock.

Breeding facilitated the discussions, ensuring a smooth process for reviewing and approving resolutions.

The approved policies will be incor-

porated into DEFB’s policy book, which guides the organization’s operations.

Mollie Lynch of Kent County was the first to speak on a policy resolution asking that, “Delaware Farm Bureau supports and urges the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension begin an ‘Ag Link’ equivalent program to assist producers in the state with preserving farm heritage and succession planning.” The motion passed with no discussion.

Delegates approved multiple resolutions proposed by New Castle County to ensure DEFB provides resources, opportunities, and support for a variety of agricultural sectors, including agri-tourism, equine, and aquaculture.

Concerns about barriers to entry and the level of commitment required for the agricultural land preservation program led to the passage of a resolution supporting the reduction of these barriers, making the program more accessible and enticing to farmers.

Deer damage sparked extensive discussion, with Jay Baxter of Sussex County highlighting the severity of the issue. Baxter emphasized the need for farmers to be permitted to hunt year-round, at all hours, provided they are properly licensed. He also called for greater state efforts

to create and maintain food plots on public lands. Delegates approved several resolutions seeking assistance in mitigating deer damage.

Keith Johnson of Sussex County raised concerns about the time and cost constraints faced by farmers and employees seeking Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs). Delegates passed a resolution supporting the streamlining of CDL requirements for individuals with practical experience to reduce these burdens.

Sussex County delegates brought forward resolutions addressing animal welfare concerns, particularly in cases of vandalism and theft. Delegates approved policies recommending that animal cruelty allegations be inspected by university animal

science specialists or licensed veterinarians. They also supported prosecuting thieves or vandals involved in theft or vandalism-related animal cruelty to the fullest extent of the law.

After all policy resolutions were concluded the delegates reelected Bill Powers as President, Steve Breeding as First Vice President, and Paul Cartanza Sr. as Second Vice President.

If you are interested in serving as a delegate for the 2025 Annual Meeting, please contact your County Farm Bureau or the state office at (302) 697-3183. For more information about the Delaware Farm Bureau, visit defb.org.

Over 70 delegates, representing all three counties, met in Dover for the DEFB Annual Meeting.

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CONFERENCE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 membership throughout the Ag Industry as all agriculture supporters are essential to agriculture growth and success.

DNREC representatives Ryan Harris, Sam Millman, and Joe Rogerson led a session on managing deer damage and effectively utilizing deer damage permit programs. Ryan Harris, Wildlife Damage Biologist with DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife, emphasized his willingness to collaborate directly with farmers. He offered to visit farms to assess damage on a case-by-case basis, acknowledging that there is no onesize-fits-all solution to this issue.

Harris is committed to working with farmers to develop tailored action plans that address their specific challenges. If you are interested in consulting with Ryan Harris on wildlife damage, you can reach him at ryan. harris@delaware.gov.

Betty Resnick, an Economist for AFBF, gave an informative economic update. Resnick presented current economic trends to the Delaware Farm Bureau leaders and members to inform them about what the United States ag industry will face in the upcoming year. Unfortunately, in many ag industries, we are seeing a downward trend. There has been a large decline in the ethanol industry which is hurting the corn market across the states. This trend can be partly attributed to the work-from-home movement since 2020 and COVID-19. In good news, specialty crops are trending upward compared to almost all row crops.

Kevin Brinson, Delaware State Climatologist and Director of the Center for Environmental Monitoring and Analysis (CEMA), and Steve Smailer, Director of DNREC’s Division of Water, addressed the critical issues of drought monitoring

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

and the increasing threat of saltwater intrusion into aquifers. Brinson and Smailer highlighted the significant impact saltwater intrusion poses to Delaware farmers, emphasizing the importance of protecting aquifers.

They explained that once saltwater intrusion occurs, reversing its effects is extremely challenging, making continuous monitoring essential to prevent long-term damage. For more information or to discuss this issue further, contact Steve Smailer at Steven.Smailer@delaware.gov or Kevin Brinson at kbrinson@udel. edu.

Saturday Sessions and Activities On Saturday morning, attendees participated in sessions focused on transition planning and advocacy.

Saturday morning Eric Vinores, founder and President of Vinores Financial Services gave a presentation on the importance of transition planning on behalf of Nationwide.

Vinores gave an important talk on the difference between transition planning and just relying on your will. Only 1 in 3 farmers have transition plans in place. Vinores stressed the need for farmers to create a transition plan to protect the future of their business and their families. It is important to consider all supporting legal documents when creating your transition plan to ensure they all have the same goal for the farm and the family. Nationwide’s “Land As Your Legacy” transition planning services are available for Nationwide insurance holders, see your Nationwide agent or nationwide.com/ business/agribusiness/farm-insurance/ag-financial/farm-succession for more information.

David Hafner, University of Florida’s IFAS Extension 4-H Youth and Development Agent, spoke to Delaware Farm Bureau leaders and members on their purpose. Hafner posed the question to all “What is your why?”, and then let everyo-

Steve Breeding gave a presentation on mental health in the farming community.

ne share their why with the group if they pleased. Hafner then had everyone build an elevator speech using their why for any opportunities they may encounter to network with legislators on issues relating to their why. Several members and leaders presented their elevator speeches to the group, while others shared them with a partner. Overall Hafner highlighted the importance of the Delaware Farm Bureau’s population and the weight their why carries.

Each why makes up the heart and soul of the Delaware Farm Bureau.

Steve Breeding, Sussex County Farm Bureau President and National Promotion and Education Committee member, delivered a presentation that he plans to give at AFBF Convention in January. His talk highlighted the critical importance of addressing the mental health crisis within the agricultural community, especially after a challenging year like this one. Breeding emphasized the value of reaching out for support during difficult times and provided attendees with resources for assistance.

In a lighter moment, DEFB staff organized a gingerbread house decorating contest. Teams worked together to decorate houses, which were displayed to be voted on during the annual banquet. The winning team, made up of Delaware Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) members, consisting of Will and Ariel Powers, Connor Vincent, Megan Davidson, and Maci Carter, was recognized during the banquet.

Annual Banquet On Saturday evening, over 200 attendees gathered for the DEFB Annual Banquet, celebrating 80 years.

The event celebrated achievements within the agricultural community and featured awards, entertainment,

and fundraising activities.

Mollie Lynch and Mary B Gooden were honored for their retirement as State Chair from YF&R and Women’s Committee, respectively.

YF&R State Chair Will Powers announced the committee’s member of the year, Mollie Lynch, and supporter of the year, Chris Feghali, owner of Federal Firearms.

DEFB announced Mollie and Michael Lynch as the state Rising Star recipient for their unwavering dedication and passion for Farm Bureau and agriculture.

Delaware Secretary of Agriculture Michael Scuse was named the state Distinguished Service to Agriculture award recipient. Through his two stints as Delaware Secretary and service with USDA as Undersecretary and Acting Secretary, Scuse has shown that he constantly fights for the preservation of Delaware agriculture and the farm way of life.

Hailing from Sussex County, the Clifton Murray Family was selected as the state Farm Family of the Year. The Murray family has dedicated their life to farming their family farm in Selbyville growing grains, hogs, poultry, seed, and since 2005, turf.

Musical entertainment was provided by Quade Gannon, and Stephanie Knutsen led attendees in line dancing. The YF&R committee, along with the DEFB Foundation, hosted silent and live auctions, raising funds for leadership opportunities and scholarships for future generations.

For more information on the Annual Banquet, refer to page 7.

Keep an eye out next year for DEFB’s Annual Conference! For more information on Delaware Farm Bureau, visit defb.org.

Austin Large of AFBF helped DEFB members strategize membership recruitment and retention ideas.

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

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DEFB honors agriculturalists statewide

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau More than 200 guests gathered on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Modern Maturity Center in Dover for the Delaware Farm Bureau’s (DEFB) annual Celebration of Harvest Banquet. The event marked DEFB’s 80th anniversary and celebrated the accomplishments of the past year while recognizing the organization’s ongoing efforts to keep agriculture as Delaware’s leading industry.

Led by DEFB President Bill Powers and Master of Ceremonies Dr. Mark Isaacs, the evening featured a meal catered by the Modern Maturity Center, live and silent auctions benefiting the Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) and the DEFB Foundation, live music by Quade Gannon, line dancing, and an awards ceremony honoring DEFB members and supporters.

The award ceremony began with recognition of retiring State Chairs from DEFB committees. Mollie Lynch and Mary B. Gooden were honored for their service as State Chairs of YF&R and the Women’s Committee, respectively.

New YF&R State Chair Will Powers announced the YF&R Member and Supporter of the Year awards. Mollie Lynch was named YF&R Member of the Year for her unwavering support and exemplary leadership over the past three years.

Chris Feghali of Federal Firearms was recognized as YF&R Supporter of the Year for his dedication to the committee, including his assistance in selecting a firearm for the live auction.

Kent County Women’s Committee Chair Rebecca Bobola presented

the Rising Star Award to Mollie and Michael Lynch. She highlighted the couple’s passion for agriculture and their active involvement in DEFB and other agricultural organizations.

Bobola shared that the Lynch’s love for agriculture is evident in all that they do.

Dave Marvel, Kent County Farm Bureau Vice President, presented the 2024 Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award to Secretary Michael Scuse. Marvel highlighted Scuse’s impressive career, which includes roles such as USDA Under Secretary, Acting U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, and recipient of the Ambassador Circle Award by the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) among many others. Scuse expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the contributions of his fellow honorees.

The Clifton Murray Family of Sussex County was named the 2024 Farm Family of the Year. Jay Baxter introduced the family, commending their dedication to farming in Selbyville, where they grow grains, hogs, poultry, seed, and turf. Baxter added, “His family’s commitment to agricultural research, inspired by his grandfather’s work in establishing an agricultural experiment station, continues to influence the region’s agricultural development and innovation today.”

To encourage membership growth, DEFB awarded custom jackets to the top five members with the most referrals: Bill Powers, Stewart Ramsey, Jim Minner, Dave Marvel, and Courtney Sarlouis.

Dr. Isaacs announced the top Nationwide partnered insurance

Kerin Hume, Paul Cartanza Jr., and Nick and Kylee Nash enjoy the festivities of the DEFB Annual Banquet.

agencies based on their total farm direct written premiums and new farm business: Carey Insurance Group Inc, and Crow Insurance Agency.

JT Robbins, Kent County YF&R Chair, and Connor Vincent led the live auction, while silent auction winners were also announced. Together, the auctions raised over $8,000 for YF&R and the DEFB Foundation.

The evening concluded with the announcement of the winning gingerbread house decorating team, which included Will and Ariel

Powers, Connor Vincent, Megan Davidson, and Maci Carter. The team received commemorative ornaments. A 50/50 raffle benefiting the DEFB Foundation capped off the event, followed by line dancing led

by Stephanie Knutsen and musical entertainment by Quade Gannon.

For more information about the Delaware Farm Bureau or the evening’s awardees, visit www.defb. org.

SEE AWARDEES ON PAGE 8

Attendees partook in line dancing, lead by Stephanie Knusten, to the live music of Quade Gannon.

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

From left to right: Jody Sweeney from Kent County Levy Court, Patrice and Michael Scuse, Senator Gerald Hocker, Senator Dave Lawson, DEFB President Bill Powers

The winning gingerbread house decorating team. From left to right: Will Connor Vincent, left, and JT Roband Ariel Powers, Connor Vincent, bins, right, lead the live auction.

Megan Davidson, Maci Carter

The Clifton Murray Family accepts their award with Senator Dave Lawson, Senator Gerald Hocker, and DEFB President Bill Powers

Quade Gannon provided musical entertainment for guests.

YF&R members with the gun auction high bidder, Paul Cartanza Sr.

From left to right: Senator Dave Lawson, Jody Sweeney from Kent County Levy Court, Mollie, Eleanor and Michael Lynch, Senator Gerald Hocker, DEFB President Bill Powers

Top 5 DEFB members with the most new member referrals. From left to right, Dave Marvel, Stewart Ramsey, Courtney Sarlouis, Jim Minner, Bill Powers

Jules Hendrix, left, and Monty Carey, right, represent the top Nationwide agencies: Carey Insurance Group Inc, and Crow Insurance Agency

Retiring Women's Committee State Chair Mary B Gooden

Gingerbread houses made in a Saturday morning session were displayed for attendees to vote on their favorite.

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

Committee Corner YF&R announces new state chair, member of the year, supporter of the year Serving as the new State Chair of the Delaware Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) is an exciting adventure that I am eager to begin!

My name is Will Powers, and for Will Powers the next year I YF&R State Chair will be serving as YF&R State Chair. I am an Ag Mechanic, in addition to helping on my family farm, Powers Farm, where we raise and direct market steers, hogs, laying hens, and turkeys. My wife, Ariel, and I have two children, Elliana and Liam. Having children who enjoy growing up surrounded by agriculture is a great joy in my life.

My first duty as State Chair was announcing our award winners at the DEFB Annual Banquet. Every year, YF&R chooses a Member of the Year and Supporter of the Year.

We use these awards to acknowledge people that are instrumental in our committee’s success.

The 2024 Member of the Year was Mollie Lynch. Mollie dedicated the past three years to serving as the YF&R State Chair. She has volunteered countless hours to this committee and excelled in her leadership position. YF&R members are extremely appreciative of Mollie and all that she has contributed to the organization. While her time as YF&R State Chair has ended, her passion for Farm Bureau has not. Mollie will continue her leadership role within DEFB as the Women’s Committee State Chair.

Chris Feghali, owner of Federal Firearms in Middletown, DE was awarded as the 2024 Supporter of the Year. Over the years, Chris Feghali has facilitated the purchase of our firearms in the DEFB Annual Banquet’s Live Auction. The proceeds from the gun auction, along with our other live and silent auction items, allow YF&R members to attend various leadership trainings, volunteer across the state, and support our farmers across the state.

I am eager to dive into my new role after the holidays and create a successful 2025 for YF&R. Mov-

ing into the new year, I hope to help YF&R plan more volunteer opportunities in our communities, increase members’ leadership skills, and encourage members to advocate in legislative settings.

Thank you to all who purchased items in our silent and live auction at the DEFB Annual Banquet. Also, thank you to those who sponsor our committee, as it allows more YF&R

members to attend AFBF leadership conferences. We truly appreciate the outpouring of support that our organization receives!

If you would like to sponsor YF&R and help send our members to AFBF’s Fusion Conference in Dever, CO in March, or for more information about YF&R, contact Sydnie Grossnickle at Sydnie.Grossnickle@defb.org.

Will Powers with his children, Ellianna and Liam at his family's farm, Powers Farm.

Will Powers, State YF&R Chair, awarding Mollie Lynch as YF&R Member of the Year

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

Lynch elected as new Women's Committee state chair This year’s banquet was bittersweet as I said goodbye to my role as Young Farmers and Ranchers State Chair and stepped into my new position as Women’s Com- Mollie Lynch mittee State Women's Committee Chair. Over the State Chair past three years, I have poured my heart into YF&R, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunities and experiences it gave me. Now, I’m excited to channel my passion for the Farm Bureau into the Women’s Committee.

For those who don’t know me, my husband, Michael, and I farm in Felton with a mission to preserve agriculture and give our daughter, Ellie, the chance to grow up in the industry that shaped us. We grow hay and raise beef cattle, which we sell directly to consumers. I also have a deep love for the equine industry and have enjoyed showing horses for many years.

I am thrilled to help the Women’s Committee grow and highlight their initiatives within our community. I hosted my first event as State Chair on December 15th at Bobola’s Farm and Florist, where committee members gathered to create their own holiday wreaths. It was a wonderful day, and I can’t wait to plan more events that bring members together to celebrate the Farm Bureau family.

I also attended Wreaths Across America with other committee members on December 14. We layed wreaths on fallen veterans in Millsboro. I hope that we can have more members attend next year.

My goals as State Chair are to grow the committee and plan more social events where the women of Farm Bureau can come together.

Currently, the Women’s Committee is very small, but I would like to work on increasing the committee’s publicity and help people find their place in the Farm Bureau.

If you would like to join the Women’s Committee, contact Jan Cartanza, Women’s Committee Coordinator, at Jan.Cartanza@defb.org.

Women's Committee youngest member, Ellie Lynch, helped her mother, Mollie Lynch, lays wreaths for Wreaths Across America.

Winter precautions on the farm Winter is upon us and with that comes risks that farmers need to take safety precautions to avoid. Some of the risks may include frostbite and hypothermia, resulting June Unruh from inadequate DEFB Promotion & clothing for the Education Member winter season.

By dressing appropriately, you can avoid this risk. Avoid long exposure outside and take breaks to warm up and stay hydrated. Stay informed on weather conditions as they can change frequently. With an ice storm, for instance, surfaces, like grain bin ladders, walkways, and livestock areas can become icy very quickly. Also, keep an eye on your rooftops as ice or snow buildup could cause collapse if not removed.

Maintainace of machinery and equipment is very important throughout the year. It may not start as easily in the cold weather. Good tires are also crucial to ensure you have good traction in possible ice and snow conditions.

It's very important to keep a close eye on livestock. Be sure they have adequate shelter and plenty of feed.

Water can freeze quickly in the cold, so periodic check on livestock's water buckets are neccessary.

As always, we need to support and care for others. When working outdoors, frequently check on employees and know their whereabouts to ensure they are safe in the winter conditions.

Winter can be a beautiful time, especially on the farm, but always remember "safety first!"

Mark your calenders for the Annual Ag Safety Conference on March 26 at Loblolly Acres in Viola. I hope to see you there!

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

11

DEFB Photo Contest winners announced

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau A pressing question in the agriculture community is, “Who is next?” For many farmers, the fear that no one will continue the family farm looms large, raising concerns about the future of agriculture.

This sentiment resonated deeply with viewers who selected the winner of the Delaware Farm Bureau Promotion and Education Committee’s annual photo contest. The winning photo, taken by Caitlin Hill of Milford, captures a young boy dressed as a combine while standing in front of two real combines after harvest showing that there is a future for agriculture. Hill, along with other award recipients, was recognized for her achievement at the Delaware Farm Bureau’s annual banquet on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Modern Maturity Center in Dover.

Contest winners showcased diverse aspects of agriculture, including livestock, machinery, barns, and landscapes. The contest, which opened in May and ran through Oct. 31, awarded all winners with certificates. Winning entries will be displayed at the Delaware Farm Bureau state office in Camden and the Delaware Agriculture Museum in Dover.

Awardees include: • Caitlin Hill, first place • Vincent Kranz, second place • Malory Wood, third place • Kristen Kemp, fourth place Honorable Mentions include: • Karla Roberts • April Doyle • Ashley Chance • Michelle Sartin • Danielle Lange • Everett Bennett The 2025 contest will begin in May, so get your camera ready to capture Delaware agriculture this coming year!

For more information or to get involved with the Promotion and Education Committee, visit defb. org or call the state office at 302697-3183.

Caitlin Hill, First Place

Vincent Kranz, Second Place

Malory Wood, Third Place

Kristen Kemp, Fourth Place

April Doyle, Honorable Mention

Ashley Chance, Honorable Mention

Danielle Lange, Honorable Mention

Everett Bennett, Honorable Mention

Karla Roberts, Honorable Mention

Michelle Sartin, Honorable Mention

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

Foundation Focus

DEFB Foundation looks to expand on its 2024 success in 2025 As 2024 comes to a close, the Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation reflects on a year filled with significant milestones that have advanced Alexis Langenfelder its mission to DEFB Ag Literacy & build aware- Program Coordinator ness, understanding, and positive public perception about Delaware’s farm operations and fresh local food. Throughout the year, the Foundation hosted impactful events such as the 11th Annual Milk Run/Walk 5K at Ramsey’s Farm and the 4th Annual Lace Up for Ag Literacy 5K Run/Walk at Hopkins Farm Creamery. These events raised over $24,000 in total,

benefiting organizations like the Ministry of Caring’s Milk for Children Fund, the Food Bank of Delaware’s Backpack Program, and the Foundations agricultural education programs, which ensures those in need in Delaware have access to nutritious meals and fosters agricultural knowledge in the minds of children.

The DEFB Foundation also expanded its outreach through partnerships, notably with the PA Friends of Farm Bureau Foundation. Tours of Pennsylvania's Mobile Ag Labs inspired the Foundation to explore similar educational innovations for the future of Delaware. The Foundation’s commitment to the future of agriculture was further demonstrated through its 2024 Summer Internship Program, which provided college students with hands-on experience in agricultural advocacy and leadership, along with its par-

ticipation in Do More 24 Delaware, the state’s largest giving day, to raise funds for its programs.

Looking ahead to 2025, the Foundation’s focus will shift toward its ambitious goal of establishing an Agricultural Immersion Lab. This hands-on, mobile learning environment will provide a unique opportunity for people of all ages to explore the science, technology, and cultural importance of farming. The Immersion Lab will be designed to travel to schools, community events, and public spaces, bringing agriculture directly to participants.

The Foundation’s new curriculum will offer engaging in-classroom lessons that cater to different age groups. Younger students may experience interactive activities like planting seeds and learning about the farm-to-table process, while older students will delve into agricultural innovation, animal genetics

and sustainable ag practices. The Foundation will be booking their in-class lessons starting now.

To make this vision a reality, the DEFB Foundation will be fundraising to support the development of the Immersion Lab. Donations, partnerships, and volunteer involvement will be crucial in bringing this exciting project to life. The Foundation invites all members of the community to support its mission and help cultivate a deeper appreciation for agriculture.

With a year of success and gratitude behind them, the DEFB Foundation is excited to continue its work in 2025, inspiring future leaders and advocates for agriculture.

Please contact Alexis Langenfelder at alexis.langenfelder@defb. org or 302-697-3183 for more information on In-Classroom lesson visits and sponsorship opportunities.

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

DEFB and DE Cooperative Extension host third annual risk management conference

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau Delaware Farm Bureau and Delaware Cooperative Extension are excited to announce the third Annual Risk Management Conference, set for March 3 at the Harrington Fire Hall. The event is free to attend; however, pre-registration with Delaware Cooperative Extension is required.

Since its inception in 2021, the Risk Management Conference has provided valuable insights to help farmers manage and mitigate various risks. The conference features expert speakers from a variety of organizations, institutes, and agencies, bringing a wealth of knowledge to attendees.

The conference will kick off at 8:30 AM with Shannon Dill from the University of Maryland, who will present on the 2025 commodity crop budgets. Following Shannon, Veronica Nigh from The Fertilizer Institute will discuss fertilizer market trends. At 10:00 AM, Kelly Davidson from the University of Delaware will share insights from a Nitrogen Modeling Tool Study. The morning sessions will conclude with Kevin Wooten from the USDA Risk Management Agency, who will address crop insurance options.

After a provided lunch, Mark Talaski and Michael Reginelli from Ad-

vanced Trading Inc. will discuss the grain market outlook and considerations. Next, Betty Resnick from the American Farm Bureau Federation will present on international trade and its impact on today’s agriculture. Kofi Britwum of the University of Delaware will follow with a session on grain producers and risk perception. The conference will close with Laurie Wolinski and Maria Pippidis from the University of Delaware, who will lead a session titled, “Weathering the Burnout and Cumulative Stress Storms.”

DEFB Assistant Executive Director and Marketing Coordinator Mikayla Paul said, “I am so glad that this partnership can continue to provide this event to farmers. There is so much uncertainty in farming that we want to equip farmers with risk management skills to help alleviate some of the pressure.”

For the first time, the Risk Management Conference will offer attendees the opportunity to earn two nutrient management continuing education credits. This is an ideal opportunity for farmers to gain valuable knowledge on risk management strategies while earning credits.

For more information on the Annual Risk Management Conference, contact Mikayla Paul at Mikayla.

Paul@defb.org.

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

Del. Ag Week: DEFB, Dept. of Insurance host insurance workshop

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau Insurance is often seen as a complex and sensitive topic, leaving many individuals unsure of where to turn for help or answers. To make insurance more understandable and accessible, the Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) has partnered with Delaware Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro to host an informative session during Delaware Ag Week, which takes place at the Delaware State Fairgrounds from Monday, January 13 through Thursday, January 16, 2025.

From 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm on January 13, the focus will be on helping attendees understand the intricacies of insurance and how to utilize the resources available through the Delaware Department of Insurance to protect themselves. This session aims to explain the often-complicated language of insurance, offering practical tools for navigating policies and claims processes.

The mission of the Delaware Department of Insurance is to "protect Delawareans through regulation and education while overseeing the insurance industry to best serve the public." In fulfilling this mission,

the Department works to protect consumers, regulate companies, and ensure fairness in all insurance transactions. This includes ensuring that insurance companies are financially stable enough to pay claims, reviewing rates submitted by insurers, prosecuting insurance fraud, licensing agents and brokers, and providing guidance to businesses and individuals on how to reduce insurance premiums.

The Delaware Farm Bureau’s mission is to "promote and protect Delaware agriculture through education and advocacy to ensure a quality of life for farmers and their families and their consumers." One of the ways DEFB serves its members is by equipping them with valuable knowledge to improve their businesses and lives. Through this partnership with Commissioner Navarro, DEFB hopes to empower attendees with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of insurance.

A primary goal of the Delaware Department of Insurance is to assist residents in better understanding their insurance policies. Commissioner Navarro will use the session to educate attendees about the many

Crop Insurance Assistance Program Update

By George Class-Peters Delaware Department of Agriculture The Delaware Department of Agriculture partnered with the Delaware Farm Bureau to secure $2 million in funding through HB87. House Bill 87 established the Delaware Agricultural Production Assistance Program. This legislation, sponsored by Representative William J. Carson (District 28) and Senator Russell Huxtable (District 6 ), allows for the general assembly to allocate funding to ensure that crop insurance is affordable to our Delaware producers. The Delaware Department of

Agriculture will facilitate the payment of the $2 million to the United States Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency through a memorandum of understanding.

This program will utilize producer data from the previous growing year, to provide a discount on the upcoming year's premium cost. Ideally, producers will be able to pay a comparable amount as they paid in the previous year but receive greater coverage from their AIP. This can be considered a revitalization and reimagining of the former state subsidy program that was effective many years ago.

services the Department offers, such as obtaining information from insurance providers, interpreting policy terms, and assessing the fairness of Workers' Compensation rate filings and audits.

Navarro's aim is to give attendees the tools and confidence they need to confidently navigate the insurance landscape. He will explain

how the Department of Insurance can assist residents in resolving issues with their insurance providers, filing complaints, and ensuring they are being charged fairly.

For more information about the Delaware Farm Bureau, visit defb. org. To learn more about the Department of Insurance, visit insurance. delaware.gov.

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

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Governor-elect Matt Meyer nominates Don Clifton as Delaware Secretary of Agriculture

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau On December 18, 2024, Governor-elect Matt Meyer nominated Don Clifton as Delaware Secretary of Agriculture. Clifton has served as the Executive Director of Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) since May 2022.

DEFB members and staff have developed a long lasting relationship with Clifton. They are sad to see him go, but excited to work with him in this new capacity. DEFB President Bill Powers said, “I really appreciate what Don has done for Farm Bureau in his time here. We are lucky to have such a good working relationship with him when he moves into his new office.”

Clifton brings a variety of farming and agribusiness experience to the position. The Clifton family has grown grains, soybeans, and processing vegetables in northeast Sussex County since the 1920’s. In addition, they operated Clifton Canning Company, a vegetable cannery, for nearly 50 years before closing the operation in 1995. The Cliftons also maintained a 300 head beef herd through the 1970’s and 80’s.

Clifton is a third-generation farmer and has farmed for over 45 years.

Clifton received Presidential appointments as State Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency twice, serving in the Clinton and Obama administrations. In addition to performing his Delaware responsibilities, he was occasionally tapped to perform detail service at USDA headquarters in Washing-

ton, D.C. working on items from administrative streamlining to policy on farm lending program delivery.

Back in Delaware, he was responsible for the development of the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) for the state.

Clifton also served on Governor Ruth Ann Minner’s Strategic Economic Council (SEC) as the co-chair for Agriculture and Biotechnology from 2001-2002. One of the significant outcomes the SEC brought forward was funding for a crop insurance cost-share program.

The program was funded and operated for the years 2004-07. It helped farmers obtain higher levels of coverage and reduce risk. A unique feature of the program was that it was devised so that it incurred zero administrative cost to the taxpayer or the farmer.

In 2001, after his first stint with FSA, Clifton and his wife Ruth established Farmers First Services, Inc., an agricultural consulting business through which they developed and presented crop insurance education programs for farmers through partnership agreements between Delaware’s Department of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension, and the USDA Risk Management Agency.

Clifton also serves as Chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Committee on Agriculture and serves on the Governor’s Energy Advisory Committee.

Don and his wife, Ruth, reside near Milford, DE. They have seven children and ten grandchildren.

In a press release by the Gover-

nor-elect and his transition team, Governor-elect Meyer said, “Don’s extensive experience in agricultural leadership, combined with his deep commitment to sustainability and community development, will be invaluable as we work to strengthen

Delaware’s agricultural sector. Agriculture is part of Delaware’s history and will continue to be a part of its future, and I look forward to working with Don to support Delaware’s hardworking farm families.”

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

Youth in Ag Spotlight Chorman wins DEFB T-shirt Design Contest By: Lucy Chorman DEFB T-shirt Design Winner My name is Lucy Chorman. I’m from Milford, Delaware, and I’m currently a junior at Milford High School.

In my life, I’ve had the unique privilege of experiencing a connection with agriculture in a number of ways. Coming from a family that has been rooted in Delaware agriculture for generations, I’ve gotten to see firsthand how agriculture shapes our communities, drives our economies, and impacts our world.

Currently, I serve as the Milford FFA Chapter’s 2024-2025 Vice President and as a National FFA representative in the USA Reporter. My involvement in the National FFA Organization has not only taught me the importance of service and leadership, but has given me the chance to form connections with farmers, producers, and agriculturalists across the country.

Finding the inspiration for my

T-shirt design was a no-brainer.

When I think of agriculture and what it means to me, I think of my dad, Jeff Chorman, and his service to Delmarva farmers as an aerial applicator. Following in his footsteps as a student pilot myself, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the hard work and dedication it takes to serve in this industry.

Including a cropduster in my design was important to me, as it represents the vital piece of Delaware agriculture I get to see and take part in. Behind the plane is an American flag, a symbol of the land and values that Delaware farmers take so much pride in. At the bottom of my design are fields of farmland alongside the iconic phrase “Local farmers feeding your family.” This phrase, to me, is what it’s all about.

Through this design, I hoped to capture not just a piece of my own story, but also the pride and commitment that define agriculture for so many of us.

Lucy Chorman holds a t-shirt with her winning design.

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

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Updates from AFBF

Three Reasons Why Farmers Need Economic Aid This week, two continuing resolutions (CR) that would have kept the federal government operating after Dec. 20 have been introduced which Betty Resnick included many Economist, AFBF things American farmers have been asking for: $21 billion in disaster aid, a farm bill extension, $10 billion in economic aid and year-round E-15. While the future of a CR is uncertain, the need for economic aid for farmers remains.

1. Farmers are entering their third year of losses on every acre they plant.

Since crop prices peaked in 2022, they have taken a nosedive. Corn and wheat are down 37%, soybeans down 28% and cotton down 22%.

At the same time, input prices have remained high and sticky. As compared to 2020, the cost to produce an acre of corn has grown by nearly 30% nationally. When combined, many farmers are facing losses on every acre they plant. This is felt acutely. Data from the Farm Business Farm Management program at the University of Illinois illustrates this well. Farmers with a 50/50 corn and soy rotation on some of the very best cropland in the world will have faced an average loss of nearly $90 per acre between the 2023 and 2025 crop years. While farmers are familiar with a downturn, these deep, sustained losses are not manageable for many crop farmers across the country.

2. Thanks to inflation, the traditional farm safety net is ineffective.

American farmers have traditionally had a safety net in the farm bill that kicks in during tough times. Agriculture is inherently cyclical, so these safety net programs, including the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs, provide help during down times so

that farmers can stay in business today to support American families and the rest of the economy tomorrow.

Unfortunately, the mechanisms that make these programs work have not kept up with changes in input prices. The statutory reference prices have not been updated since the 2014 farm bill. In the last decade-plus, inflation has gutted the effectiveness of these reference prices. One dollar in January 2014 is worth $1.35 today, and programs carefully designed to provide just enough help in 2014 provide almost no help in 2024.

This outdated farm bill is not protecting farmers. Despite the difficult times farmers are finding themselves in, when accounting for inflation, 2024 is projected to have the lowest payments to U.S. farmers since 1982 – over four decades ago.

3. The net farm income picture is bleak.

In aggregate, net farm income has declined by $41 billion – nearly 25% – in only two years, according to USDA’s figures. While this number is striking on its own, it covers even steeper losses in the

row crop sector with high returns in the livestock sector. The net cash income of farms specializing in corn, wheat and soybeans are down 42%, 43% and 44% respectively.

The agricultural industry is in recession. Farmers bear the brunt of this recession – but they are not alone. There have been thousands of layoffs throughout the agribusiness sector as well.

The lack of a new farm bill, which is two years overdue, has left farmers in a lurch during the

sort of difficult stretch where they traditionally relied on the safety net. Due to the capital-intensive nature of farming, farmers rely on annual operating loans to plant their crops. Without some assurance of help from Congress and USDA, many farmers are at risk of losing access to credit and going out of business. The most vulnerable farmers – including beginning farmers, the next generation to grow our food – may be the first to lose their farms.

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

Time for Congress to Choose Farmers Over Politics By:Russel Boening Texas Farm Bureau As a farmer and rancher, I’ve learned to count on the seasons.

They don’t wait. The crops don’t hold off until it’s convenient, and the livestock don’t adjust their needs to fit my schedule.

Yet here we are again, caught in a political freeze, waiting on Congress to pass a farm bill while our livelihoods hang in the balance.

Farm and ranch families operate in a unique business with obstacles beyond our control requiring a lot of faith. We have faith the weather will cooperate to let us plant, grow and harvest good crops. We have faith the commodity and livestock markets will stay strong. We have faith that when we experience catastrophic storms destroying our crops or an economic downturn, the next year will be better, and we can continue farming.

As farmers, we’re eternal optimists. The reality, however, is we are in a dire situation as we navigate the most severe downturn in the farm economy since the 1980s.

This is due to skyocketing inflation, high input prices, low commodity prices, uncontrollable weather, global unrest, and other challenges. Three consecutive years facing hardship makes it difficult to secure financing, stay in business, and frankly, which is also most concerning, maintain mental

health.

A December USDA report shows a 23% drop in net farm income since 2022. The most recent Census of Agriculture shows America lost 141,733 farms and 20 million acres in a five-year period. We are also experiencing the second consecutive year of a record agricultural trade deficit, which alone should be alarming.

While farmers face the most treacherous time in recent history, Congress has failed to prioritize passing a farm bill with additional investments in the farm safety net.

In a September letter from all 50 state Farm Bureaus and Puerto Rico Farm Bureau to U.S. House and Senate leadership, we clearly stated, “Another extension of the 2018 farm bill is insufficient and unacceptable as outdated farm safety net programs create uncertainty for agricultural producers.”

I am extremely disheartened to say it seems our letter was ignored, and Congress is punting on the farm bill a second time, once again failing the American farmer and rancher.

The farm bill isn’t just a piece of legislation. It provides stability for rural communities, funding for conservation programs, research opportunities and ensures access to nutrition for millions of families.

For some, it’s easy to see the farm bill as just another political debate. But for us in agriculture, it’s personal. It’s the difference between keeping the family farm afloat or being forced to sell out.

It’s the resources we need to care for the land, to feed our neighbors and to survive the storms—both literal and figurative—that we know will come.

The fact is our nation’s farmers are at the end of their rope, and we are fed up with Congress’s excuses and inaction. But there is opportunity to change the dangerous path we are on as a country when it comes to national food security.

We continue to press for a new farm bill with critically needed investments in the farm safety net. But most importantly, at this juncture, is for Congress to pass the “Farmer Assistance and Revenue Mitigation Act of 2024,” introduced by Rep. Trent Kelly (R-Miss.), or a similar economic aid package, to provide desperately needed assistance to farmers as we continue waiting on Congress to act on a new farm bill.

If Congress fails to deliver economic assistance to farm families this year, the results for our country will be disastrous. It’s not just farmers who lose when Congress fails to fulfill the needs of

agriculture. Our entire economy suffers, and our nation’s secure food supply is jeopardized. The impacts ripple out to every plate in America.

I hope consumers across the country realize what is at stake if Congress fails to act. An unprecedented number of farmers will not survive unless they have some assurance to take to their lenders to secure financing for the upcoming crop year.

Anyone who views delivering economic assistance to farmers as a cost to our nation is severely misguided. This must be regarded as a necessary investment in the future of our food security. Failing to invest in agriculture is a threat to the backbone of our country and the nation’s food and national security.

Let’s choose farmers over politics and pass the FARM Act this year and prioritize passing a new farm bill in the new year. Because the seasons won’t wait, and neither can we.

Russell Boening is president of Texas Farm Bureau. He grows feed grains, cotton and wheat, in addition to operating a dairy and a beef cattle farm with his brother.

This column was originally published as an op-ed by Texas Farm Bureau.

Farmers Urge Congress to Provide Certainty to Rural America

By: Mike Tomko and Bailey Corwine AFBF Communications Congress must not delay in delivering critical aid to farmers and ranchers who are facing mounting challenges to growing the food, fiber and fuel America’s families rely on. That’s the message American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall delivered today in a letter to Congress urging passage of the Continuing Resolution, which lawmakers are expected to vote on this week.

The legislation includes a farm bill extension, relief from low commodity prices and high supply costs, and help for farmers who were impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024.

“In the absence of an updated farm bill that works to help farmers manage risk, the supplemental assistance provided by this CR will help bridge the gap until Congress can act to pass a new fiveyear farm bill,” wrote President Duvall. “Without this needed aid, many farmers, especially our next

generation of farmers, must decide whether to decrease acres for the next growing season because they cannot secure financing, or to give up on planting a crop at all.”

The CR would also allow yearround E-15 sales, which will help reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil.

Farmers have been vocal in their support of immediate assistance.

Since Saturday, AFBF members sent almost 13,000 messages to lawmakers, calling on them to include agriculture assistance and to

pass the CR without delay.

“Congress must pass this CR to deliver assistance to America’s farmers and ranchers at a time when they need it most,” concluded President Duvall. “We are respectfully asking you to vote YEA on this CR to provide that assistance and pave the way for a new five-year farm bill that will have enhanced commodity and risk management programs to help farmers mitigate their risk in the future.”

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

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Guest Opinions Scuse Has Always Hung His Hat Up In Delaware

By Stacey Hofmann Delaware Department of Agriculture, Chief of Community Relations Unlike the fictional cowboy in Toby Keith’s song "Should’ve Been a Cowboy," Michael T. Scuse is a true cowboy at heart, with deep roots in Delaware’s agricultural community. Growing up on his family farm in Smyrna, Delaware, Scuse developed a strong bond with the land, which guided his career and passion for agriculture. His skill in riding Paint horses, signature black cowboy hat, and commitment to cowboy values have shaped his lifelong contributions to Delaware’s farming industry. In 2001, Governor Ruth Ann Minner appointed Scuse as Delaware’s ninth Secretary of Agriculture, recognizing his potential to support and elevate agriculture. Despite facing challenges early in his career, Scuse’s love for agriculture and dedication to his home state have remained constant, making him a key figure in Delaware's agricultural growth.

In the world of Westerns, a black cowboy hat symbolizes power, confidence, and authority, traits that align with Scuse’s character. His ability to lead with strength and style, while never backing down from challenges, has been a defining feature throughout his tenure in Delaware agriculture. Scuse’s leadership has left a lasting mark on the state, highlighted by several key accomplishments during his time in office.

One of his notable achievements was the creation of the Delaware Farmland Preservation license plate, which allowed Delawareans to help preserve farmland by purchasing the plate. In addition, Scuse developed the Forestland Preservation Program, which aimed to preserve forested properties in timber production. Although funding for the program dwindled after his initial departure from office, he successfully reinstated it in 2019, leading to the preservation of thousands of acres of forested land.

Scuse’s collaboration with the University of Delaware’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) also resulted in several important initiatives. In 2004, he led Delaware and Maryland

through a successful response to an avian influenza outbreak. This cooperative effort became a model for future responses to similar events.

Scuse also spearheaded the creation of LEADelaware, a leadership program designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in agriculture, and Delaware Ag Week, a major event that brings farmers together to access the latest research, network with industry professionals, and earn continuing education credits.

During his first tenure as Secretary of Agriculture, Scuse worked tirelessly to secure federal funding for Delaware’s specialty crop industry.

Though he did not see the immediate impact of these efforts, they proved invaluable when he returned to office under Governor John Carney in 2017. Scuse’s leadership was instrumental in securing over $3.2 million in funding from the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, supporting 72 multi-year projects for the state’s specialty crops.

Delaware Secretary of Agriculture Michael Scuse acting as master of Scuse’s dedication to Delaware ag- ceremonies at the Delaware State Fair Livestock Extravaganza riculture did not stop when he left on Delaware’s farmers. Under the state in 2009 to work at the U.S. local counties. his guidance, Delaware became a Department of Agriculture (USDA) Environmental protection was another key area of focus. Scuse model for addressing animal health as Under Secretary for Farm and helped secure increased funding for emergencies, with Scuse working Foreign Agricultural Services. He cover crops, which reduce nutrient closely with producers, government would eventually become the Actofficials, and industry groups to ing U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agri- runoff and improve water quality.

His department also worked to mitigate the effects of both crises. culture. Scuse worked to find new plant over 1 million trees in just Scuse’s commitment to supportmarkets for American agricultural four years and developed a costing Delaware’s agriculture market products, visiting 27 countries and share program to help farmers extended to projects like the Dela48 states. His work at the federal ware Grown brand and the USDA’s level furthered his understanding of remove abandoned poultry houses. These efforts were critical in Resilient Food System Infrastructhe challenges facing Delaware’s preserving Delaware’s rural landture Program. These initiatives aim farmers, but Delaware was always scape and improving environmental to increase consumer awareness of close to his heart. When Governor Delaware’s specialty crops and Carney called on Scuse to return as sustainability.

In 2020, Scuse also played a key improve the state’s agricultural Secretary of Agriculture in 2017, role in the establishment of the infrastructure, supporting the longhe came back more seasoned and Delaware Council on Farm and term success of the industry. ready to face new challenges.

Food Policy, which worked to As Scuse prepares to leave his In his second term, Scuse focused position in January 2024, he reflects on several key priorities: agricultur- improve food access and strengthon his many accomplishments but al land preservation, environmental en the state’s food supply chain.

The Council secured millions in remains committed to supporting stewardship, food access, protectDelaware agriculture. He plans to ing agriculture, and supporting agri- funding to improve food systems and support local and underserved spend more time with his family cultural markets. Under his leaderproducers, earning the Lieutenant and travel, but his passion for agriship, Delaware became a national Governor’s Challenge Wellness culture will always be a part of his leader in farmland preservation, Leadership Award. identity. Scuse’s legacy as Delawith Scuse overseeing the preserDespite the challenges of the ware’s cowboy will live on through vation of 40.5% of the state’s total COVID-19 pandemic and the his many contributions, ensuring farmland. This success was fueled

by Scuse’s commitment to collabo- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza the state’s agricultural industry (HPAI) outbreak, Scuse’s leaderremains strong for generations to ration with stakeholders, including come. farmers, the General Assembly, and ship helped minimize the impact

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

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Nationwide News

Grain Bin Safety Week highlights need to prepare for grain entrapments with tools, training The following information is provided by Nationwide®, the #1 farm and ranch insurer in the U.S.1

someone is trapped in a grain bin makes the situation a matter of life and death. That’s why Grain Bin Safety Week is so important.

Grain bin safety affects farmers and countless farm workers around the country. Every year, lives are lost on farms from grain entrapment. All it takes is a few seconds for a farmer or worker to become overwhelmed by flowing grain.

The inspiration behind Grain Bin Safety Week

Rural firefighters are often the first and only line of defense when someone becomes trapped in stored grain. Most rural firefighters lack the training and equipment needed to perform a successful grain bin rescue. This compounds the problem. And there are often many miles between rescuers and victims. Even a delay of a few minutes when

But with the right equipment and know-how, first responders can save lives otherwise lost to grain entrapment. Providing that specialized equipment and knowledge – thereby helping to prevent these types of tragedies – is why Nationwide started Grain Bin Safety Week in 2014. “Entering its second decade, Grain Bin Safety Week remains one of our biggest safety education efforts year-round,” said Nationwide Agribusiness President Brad Liggett. “For 2025, we’re working with strategic partners who share our goal of ‘zero lives lost’ to continue to advance and evolve grain

bin safety awareness and action Key things to know about Grain through education and equipment Bin Safety Week that at the end of the day, will help Grain Bin Safety Week is held save lives.” the third full week of February.

How to prepare your local first The Nominate Your Fire Department Contest runs from January responders for grain rescues 1 to April 30 annually. Since its As part of Grain Bin Safety start, the contest supported by Week, Nationwide and the Na- Nationwide, NECAS and other tional Education Center for Ag- generous sponsors, has attracted ricultural Safety (NECAS) are more than 12,000 nominations. grainbinsafetyweek.com awarding select first responders Visit grain rescue tubes and hands-on to see if a grain rescue tube has specialized training as part of the been awarded near you and, If Nominate Your Fire Department you don’t see one close by, nomContest. To date, the program has inate your fire department today. distributed more than 390 of the NECAS Director Dan Neenan specialized tools and education travels with a state-of-the-art monecessary to employ it to save bile grain entrapment simulator to lives in 32 states. That effort is the winning locations to conduct making a difference. At least 13 the training session and award the fire departments have used the tube. Loaded on a 20-foot trailer rescue tubes and training to suc- and able to hold approximately cessfully rescue entrapped work- 100 bushels of grain, the simulator is the perfect training ground. ers.

“We encourage everyone to nominate their local first responders to receive a grain rescue tube and training,” Liggett said.

“Who knows? The men and women you nominate for the program may be the next to save a life otherwise lost from grain entrapment.” Find out all about Grain Bin Safety Week and how you can get involved at grainbinsafetyweek.com.

Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2024 Nationwide

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Delaware Farm Bureau News, January/February 2025

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)