Delaware Farm Bureau News Nov/Dec 2024

Farm Bureau News

Celebrating 81 Years!

Local Farmers Feeding Your Family

County Farm Bureaus honor awardees at annual banquets

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau

Every year, the three county Farm Bureau's in Delaware honor top agriculture professionals and farm families for their service to the industry. The honorees then move on to vie for statewide recognition.

The following individuals and families have been honored recently:

Russell Dunn Family

Kent County

Farm Family of the Year

The Russell Dunn Family was

named the 2024 Farm Family of the Year. Dunn has been working on his family’s farm from a young age and has always had a strong passion for farming. At just 14, he grew peppers on 5 acres for San Del Packing Company and, during high school, worked with Dwight Meyer growing vegetables.

Over the years, Dunn hauled sweet corn, fertilizer, and other products, while gradually renting and purchasing land. Today, he farms approximately 800 acres

across Delaware and Maryland. While presenting the award, David Marvel Jr. shared, “Russell and Marlene are now living the life they have always wanted to live.”

Senator Dave Wilson and Senator Eric Buckson presented a tribute to The Russell Dunn Family showing the General Assembly’s appreciation for his work.

Puglisi Family

New Castle County Farm Family of the Year

The Puglisi family was named

the Farm Family of the Year. Their business began as a door-to-door egg delivery service in New York City, eventually expanding in the 1950s into a full-scale egg production operation. In 2008, they further grew the operations by acquiring Delaware Egg Farm in Middletown. Today, the third generation of the Puglisi family is focused on diversifying their production, with an emphasis on organic and cage-free options. The family maintains a strong

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From the President’s desk

Farm Bureau is family

As President of the Delaware Farm Bureau, I've spent the past two years building relationships with members and industry professionals across the nation. This role has given me the incredible opportunity to travel and learn about the diverse agricultural landscape of America.

Through these experiences, I've gained a sense of family from Farm Bureau connections across the country. As I travel, whether for FB, farm related or personal, I realized that every couple of hours, I was passing through a town where I knew someone from Farm Bureau. It’s comforting to know that no matter where I go, there’s likely a friendly face nearby.

These connections have also been a blessing for our own family farm, Powers Farm. Whether we’re moving machinery or livestock, it’s reassuring to know I can reach out for help if needed. The network I’ve built spans so many sectors of agriculture that whenever I have a question, I usually know someone with the right expertise to help.

Meeting so many people has had a great impact on me. It has shown me that, regardless of where we live, we all face similar challenges in agriculture. This year, Kent County Farm Bureau sponsored a

crab feast and had a fabulous turnout. There I was able to connect with people from the ag and non ag sector. Likewise, New Castle County held a successful Beef and Beer fundraiser where I was able to network with ag supporters! I am always happy to share my passion for agriculture with those I meet. Whether at the county, state, or national level, whenever I attend Farm Bureau events, I am surrounded by agriculturalists who are deeply committed to preserving and protecting the agricultural way of life.

I have also met many people who are interested in supporting local farmers by purchasing their goods. From the on-farm mar-

kets and farm stands to the fields for pumpkin picking, we all must reach out our hand and invite them to experience the way of life that we have all grown to love. I want them to be part of our family also. I know that each of you probably have had some of the same experiences with people you know. As we approach the holiday season, I encourage you to strengthen those bonds and appreciate the family that you have around you.

I enjoy being able to share the agricultural community with as many people as possible. I encourage anyone that has a passion and appreciation for agriculture to join the Farm Bureau family. Be an advocate for agriculture today!

Bill Powers DEFB President

Bill Powers accepting the Pinnacle Award on behalf of Delaware Farm Bureau from AFBF President Zippy Duvall at the 2024 AFBF Convention.

The Zipline

The Farm Bureau family: who we are and what we do

Who We Are

When someone says “Farm Bureau,” what comes to mind first for you? Do you think back to your first Farm Bureau meeting, remember an event your county Farm Bureau put on, or maybe you’re reminded of all the friends you have made in this organization? It can be hard to put into just a few words all that Farm Bureau means to our family, our farms and our communities, but sharing our story and inviting others to experience all that Farm Bureau has to offer is critical to the success of our great organization. What exactly is Farm Bureau? Have you ever gotten that question? At its heart, Farm Bureau is the trusted Voice of Agriculture and the leading grassroots membership organization advocating for all farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Farm Bureau welcomes and includes all types of farmers and serves all types of farms in 50 states

and Puerto Rico for the benefit of families everywhere. Our collective voice is the reason Farm Bureau can advocate effectively, enrich our communities and ensure we provide a safe and abundant food supply. And as a grassroots organization, starting at the local level, the more people we invite to join us, the stronger our voice and our organization become.

This past spring, we conducted a survey that revealed an impressive statistic, 68% of the general public trusts the Farm Bureau brand. Not only that, but three-fourths of participants also said that Farm Bureau has had a positive impact on their community. That’s an incredible achievement and reflects the hard work and dedication of our members – whether it's through our advocacy efforts, community service or simply being there for our neighbors when they need us.

However, while these numbers did show a high level of trust, the survey also revealed that there is a sizable number of folks who know the Farm Bureau name, but not much else about us, and that makes them less inclined to get involved. That’s where each of us can make a difference, by increasing the familiarity of Farm Bureau and sharing with our communities who we are and what we do for farmers and rural America.

The Power of Sharing Our Story

I often say that one of our biggest strengths is sharing our story and

the same goes for showing people how Farm Bureau is the right place for them. These days, especially with our younger generations, people want to align themselves with organizations that match their personal values and know they can have a role in making a difference. That’s where each of us can make a difference. Telling someone about Farm Bureau doesn't require a sales pitch or formal invitation, either. Many times, it’s just about telling your personal story and helping someone else see themselves in our organization. It can be as simple as sharing about how Farm Bureau has helped you navigate through an issue, the connections you made at an event or even the leadership skills you’ve gained through our programs. By sharing what Farm Bureau means to you personally, you can help someone to see how their values align with our mission.

What We Do

The next step of sharing what we do is the easy part, and your local, state and American Farm Bureau have you covered. At every level, Farm Bureau’s strength is in bringing members together to speak with a united voice, support one another and give back to our communities. If you are looking for more ideas to share about Farm Bureau, you can head over to our Who We Are and What We Do pages, to learn more about what we focus on as an organization and what’s available to our members. Who knows, you may

even find the next step in your own personal Farm Bureau journey. I encourage you to check in with your local and state Farm Bureaus about what resources or opportunities are available to learn more about who we are, what we do, why we do it, and who we serve. We are so appreciative of the growing collaboration with our state and local Farm Bureaus on these efforts and I am excited to see how this new approach will invite more folks into our Farm Bureau family.

Why We Do It

The final piece of sharing the Farm Bureau story is why we do it. We all depend on the success of American agriculture, and Farm Bureau stands with farmers and ranchers as we work together to keep our nation’s food, fiber and renewable fuel supply safe, sustainable and secure. It’s a mission that isn’t just meeting today’s challenges, but one that is working to support agriculture for generations to come. The decisions we make, the policies we advocate for and the members we welcome into our organization all help shape that future.

At the end of the day, Farm Bureau’s strength lies in our membership. Every engagement and experience someone has with us helps build their understanding of how the Farm Bureau family is here to support them and their communities. Let’s continue inviting others to join along by sharing who we are, what we do and why we do it.

Zippy Duvall

American Farm Bureau Federation President

Catch up with the counties

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strong commitment to agricultural excellence and community involvement. Family members actively serve on the boards of the United Egg Producers and the American Egg Board.

When accepting the award, Tom Puglisi shared his appreciation for the organization saying, “Farm Bureau has been a great partner and help to our family. It’s great to know we have such a strong organization behind us.”

Clifton Murray Family Sussex County Farm Family of the Year

The Clifton Murray family was named Farm Family of the Year. Clifton "Bud" Murray began farming at a young age alongside his father, C.A. Murray, and his two younger brothers, Carlton and Jay Murray. Together, they grew crops and raised hogs. Clifton furthered his passion for agriculture through active participation in FFA and by earning a degree in Agriculture from the University of Delaware.

Murray has received numerous awards in recognition of his commitment to the industry, including the Friend of Extension Award, the Service to Agriculture Award, and the Governor’s Conservation Award. In addition to his agricultural achievements, he served as mayor of Selbyville for 30 years.

While presenting the award, Connor Vincent praised the Clifton Murray family as “a cornerstone of the neighborhood” and noted their humility and dedication to helping others.

Michael Scuse

Kent County Distinguished Service to Ag

Michael Scuse, Delaware’s Secretary of Agriculture, was awarded the Distinguished Service to Agriculture honor. A member of the Farm Bureau for over 20 years, Scuse has made a lasting impact on the agricultural industry through various leadership roles, including Acting Secretary of Agriculture, Acting Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, and Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services.

Throughout his career, Scuse has been recognized by several organizations for his contributions to agriculture. Notable achievements during his time as Secretary include establishing a statewide food pol-

icy council, advancing the Agland Preservation program, and initiating a cover crop program. He currently manages his family’s farm, Round Maple Farms, where they grow corn, soybeans, and wheat.

As he prepares to retire, Scuse reflected on his career and the successes of his final year, stating, “We accomplished one of the greatest legislative sessions that agriculture has ever had. That’s a result of us all working together…We need to continue working for agriculture for this state and working together does work.”

The Honorable U.S. Senator Thomas Carper New Castle County Distinguished Service to Ag

The Honorable Thomas Carper was recognized with the Distinguished Service to Agriculture award for his dedicated advocacy for agriculture and rural development throughout his extensive career in public service. During his nearly 24 years as a U.S. Senator, Carper has consistently worked on behalf of Delaware’s farmers, recognizing the critical role agriculture plays in both the local community and the broader economy. He has led multiple legislative initiatives to support and protect the farming sector.

In addition to his legislative efforts, Carper regularly meets with Delaware farmers, visiting family farms and roundtable discussions to gain firsthand insight into the challenges faced by the agriculture industry. His direct engagement with farmers has helped him better understand and address their concerns.

Through his work, Carper has made a lasting impact on Delaware's agricultural landscape, promoting policies that foster economic growth, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of rural communities. Upon receiving the award, he said, “One of my joys is to make sure people are happy and healthy and making sure that they have access to healthy food.” He added, "For the folks here that are feeding us and being such good stewards, thanks for what you do and thanks for letting me serve you.”

Paul Downes

Sussex County Distinguished Service to Ag

Paul Downes was honored with the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award. His career in agriculture began in 1978 when he joined

Mountaire Farms, then known as Delaire Farms, as a flock supervisor. Over the years, he advanced within the company, holding roles such as grain and ingredient buyer, feed quality control manager, assistant live production manager, vice president of live operations, COO, and ultimately, President and CEO.

Under Downes’ leadership, Mountaire expanded from one processing plant to four and added ten grain elevators. He was also instrumental in the growth of the Thanksgiving for Thousands program. In 2017, Downes received the J. Frank Gordy, Sr. Delmarva Distinguished Citizen Award from the Delaware Poultry Industry, now known as the Delmarva Chicken Association (DCA).

Upon receiving the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award, Downes said, “This is special for me because it’s Sussex County, and I was born and raised in Laurel, DE… Sussex County is who we are.” He added, “I’m proud of my family and what we have accomplished together…it’s all I have ever dreamed of.”

Michael and Mollie Lynch Kent County Rising Star

Michael and Mollie Lynch received the Rising Star Award for their dedication to the agricultural industry. The Lynch family operates a farm in Felton, raising beef cattle, growing orchard grass hay, and showing horses. Both Michael and Mollie are active leaders within the Farm Bureau, with Mollie serving as the State Chair of the Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Committee and Michael as the YF&R Kent County Chair.

The Lynch family shows a true dedication to agriculture through their participation in numerous agricultural organizations and volunteer events. They hope to pass this passion and leadership to their daughter, Eleanor, by giving her the same opportunities in agriculture that they had growing up.

Upon accepting the award, Mollie shared her appreciation for those who helped them, saying, “this is a great honor. We wouldn’t be here without the support of our family and many in this room.”

Representative Charles Postles presented the couple with a tribute from the Legislature, stating “We want to say thank you for what you’ve done. Good job, and we look forward to seeing more.”

Carl Ramsey New Castle Rising Star

Carl Ramsey was recognized as the county’s Rising Star. As the sixth generation on his family’s farm, Ramsey’s Farm, he has played a crucial role in its growth since returning from Pennsylvania State University. He has been significant in expanding the farm’s social media presence, which now has over 9,000 followers on Facebook. Earlier this year, he and his family were recognized with the Family Service Award from the Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association of Delaware. Ramsey is also a dedicated supporter of the Ministry of Caring, helping to provide fresh produce to Wilmington residents. Ramsey has been a member of Farm Bureau for 5 years and serves as the secretary on the New Castle County Board of Directors. He has been actively involved in planning various county and state Farm Bureau events, including the Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation’s Milk Run and the New Castle County Beef and Beer Fundraiser.

Expressing his gratitude for the Rising Star award, Ramsey shared his enthusiasm for the future and his hopes to continue growing his family’s farm and his involvement in the agriculture industry, saying, “I’m going to keep on farming!”

Connor Vincent Sussex County Rising Star

Connor Vincent was recognized as the county’s Rising Star. Growing up on her family’s farm in Laurel, Vincent developed a passion for agriculture at an early age. Her early involvement included showing sheep with her sister and participating in 4-H and FFA. She later pursued a degree in Agribusiness Management, where she was actively involved in Sigma Alpha, a professional agricultural sorority. Vincent earned a degree in Elementary Education, which she used to integrate agriculture into her lesson plans. In 2017, she served as the Mar-Del Watermelon Queen, promoting the watermelon industry. Recently, she transitioned to a career as a crop insurance agent at King Crop Insurance, where her colleagues encouraged her to join the Farm Bureau and get involved. Since then, she has taken on more responsibilities, cur-

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-rently serving as the Sussex County Young Farmers and Ranchers chair. Vincent expressed her gratitude for receiving this award, which reflects the county's appreciation for her contributions. She said, “I have

enjoyed every minute of it and am just getting started.”

To purchase a ticket to the DEFB Annual Banquet on December 14th where the state award winners will be named, contact the state office at 302-697-3183 or Jan.Cartanza@ defb.org.

The Russell Dunn Family receiving Kent County’s Farm Family of the Year

The Puglisi Family receiving New Castle County’s Farm Family of the Year

The Clifton Murray Family receiving Sussex County’s Farm Family of the

Secretary of Agriculture, Michael Scuse, receiving Kent County’s Distinguished Service to Ag award.

The Honorable U.S. Senator Tom Carper receiving New Castle County’s Distinguished Service to Ag award.

Paul Downes receiving Sussex County’s Distinguished Service to Ag award.

Michael and Mollie Lynch receiving Kent County’s Rising Star award.

Carl Ramsey receiving New Castle County’s Rising Star award.

Connor Vincent receiving Sussex County’s Rising Star award.

Looking back on the 152nd General Assembly Governmental Affairs

Don Clifton DEFB Executive Director

I feel confident saying that Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) has stepped forward in pursuing our stated mission, "to promote and protect Delaware agriculture through education and advocacy to ensure a quality of life for farmers and their families and their consumers." The DEFB Board of Directors has made decisions which will enhance the value of being a Farm Bureau member. DEFB has accomplished quite a lot in the last two years and has more work to do. One of the areas of which I feel the most proud is our advocacy in the Delaware General Assembly on behalf of farmers and the broader community. Of the hundreds of bills filed during the two years of the 152nd General Assembly, the following are just a few that DEFB was involved with. DEFB was active in drafting legislation for introduction, supporting bills that were consistent with DEFB policy, advocating revisions in bills, and opposing bills that were inconsistent with DEFB policy and interests. We worked with legislators of both parties and both chambers throughout the process.

The following illustrates the various ways DEFB is engaged with the General Assembly.

A bill drafted by DEFB: Crop Insurance Assistance: HB 87: This Act establishes the Delaware Agricultural Production Assistance Program, providing a subsidy of up to 30%, capped at $10.00 per acre, on eligible producers' multi-peril crop insurance, whole farm, or other qualifying revenue protection premiums. The Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) will work with the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) to administer the program. $2 million was authorized for the first year of the program. The program is now established in Delaware Code and is subject to annual

appropriations through the budget process. Governor Carney signed this bill on July 25, 2024. DDA is currently working to establish an agreement with RMA for the Program’s administration.

DEFB drafted this legislation, provided expert testimony at the House and Senate Ag Committee hearings, and communicated with members of the General Assembly to ensure passage. This bill passed both chambers with unanimously.

Bills supported by DEFB:

Dairy: HB 392: USDA runs a voluntary program, Dairy Margin Coverage, that provides risk management coverage to dairy producers. The a program payment to participating dairy farmers is generated based on the difference between the national milk price and the average feed cost. This Act enables DDA, subject to the availability of funding, to reimburse eligible dairy operators in the state for the cost of the premium to enroll in the USDA program. Governor Carney signed this bill on July 25, 2024.

DEFB supported this bill through expert testimony at the House and Senate Ag Committee hearings and staying in communication with members of the General Assembly through passage. This bill passed both chambers with unanimously.

Dairy: SB 273: This Act, also known as “The Consumer Choice Milk Act,” legalizes selling and distributing unpasteurized or “raw” milk and its products directly from dairy producers to consumers in Delaware. It removes outdated definitions of "Delaware fresh milk" and "northeastern fresh milk," retaining only the definition of "fresh milk." The Act provides economic opportunities for Delaware dairy producers in response to growing consumer demand, allowing for potentially higher profits. It establishes a raw milk permit system regulated by DDA, permitting sales only by licensed producers or their supervised employees directly to consumers. DDA, in coordination with the Department of Health and Social Services, will create regulations for the program. The Gover-

nor signed this bill on September 26, 2024.

DEFB helped facilitate the introduction and passage of this bill by consulting with the proponents and sponsors, providing opportunities to present and discuss the efficacy of the bill, and communicating with members of the General Assembly. DEFB also provided testimony at the House and Senate Ag Committee hearings. The results were a 14-5 approval in the Senate, coupled with a 39-2 House approval. A similar bill was defeated about ten years ago.

Hunting: HB 271: This bill allows hunting game birds on Sunday simply by striking the language prohibiting such hunting. Governor Carney signed HB 271 on May 30, 2024.

DEFB testified in support at both the House and Senate Natural Resources / Environment hearings emphasizing the need for additional opportunities to harvest Canada Geese and Snow Geese which damage farmers’ crops. This bill passed both chambers with unanimously.

Bills requiring DEFB attention: Animals: HB 124: This Act removes animal noise disturbances from the Noise Control and Abatement Chapter in Title 7 and clarifies the enforcement authority of the Office of Animal Welfare and DDA, with police assistance as needed. It introduces restrictions on barking dogs, prohibiting continuous barking for 15 minutes or intermittent barking for 30 minutes while exempting specific situations (e.g., trespassing) and locations (e.g., shelters, vet offices). Governor Carney signed HB 124 on October 9, 2024.

DEFB insisted on an amendment (SA1) which added livestock guarding to the list of activities a dog may be engaged in that does not constitute a violation of this Act. The final version of the bill passed the House 38-2 and the Senate 13-8.

Solutions Act of 2023 establishes greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets to address climate change, building on the 2021 Climate Action Plan. It mandates regular updates to the plan, creates Climate Change Officers in key departments to aid Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), requires state agencies to consider climate change in their processes, and calls for a biennial Implementation Report on progress toward these targets. Governor Carney signed this bill on August 3, 2023.

HB 99 was a bill in the 152nd General Assembly following up on results during the 151st on a bill SB 305 in June 2022. DEFB had opposed SB 305 after it had passed the Senate. The bill did not pass the House Natural Resources at that time. DEFB and other business allies had testified in opposition.

The proponents regrouped in preparation of the 152nd General Assembly modifying the language sufficiently, with input from DEFB, and introduced it as HB 99. DEFB did not support or oppose the bill. The bill passed the House 27-13 and the Senate 15-5.

Bills opposed by DEFB: Environmental Rights: HB 220: This proposed amendment to the Delaware Constitution, known as "The Green Amendment", aims to conserve and protect the state's natural resources—water, air, soil, flora, fauna, ecosystems, and climate. It establishes an inherent right for all Delawareans to a clean and healthy environment and designates the state and its branches as trustees of these resources. By adopting this amendment, Delaware would align with other states with similar constitutional provisions for their citizens' environmental rights. This bill moved out of the House Administration Committee on June 14, 2024.

DEFB adamantly opposed this bill. The Green Amendment was part of a nationwide effort in state legislatures to institute such language in each state’s constitution

establishing citizen’s environmental rights. A few states already have such provisions. DEFB research on the legal ramifications of such constitutional language led to the conclusion that a very likely outcome would be a torrent of litigation against agricultural industries and sectors, even potentially against individual farmers. DEFB advised the proponents that the amendment would likely not have the intended effect, but delay progress on environmental improvement because of court actions.

DEFB testified in opposition to the bill at the House Administration Committee hearing. Although the bill was released from committee, it never saw House floor action. DEFB had counseled with House opponents, and it became evident that the bill did not have the required votes.

Natural Resources: HB 249: This Act would have updated various statutory fees and established or modified specific permit and licensing fees charged by DNREC. The bill was introduced late in June 2023. A hearing was never held on this bill and no floor action took place.

DEFB opposed this bill because of certain outrageous fees that would affect agriculture, among other reasons. These included a per gallon fee on irrigation water and higher fees on above ground storage tanks. DEFB discussed its points of opposition with the bill sponsor. The bill died.

Riparian Buffers: HB 246: This Act would have established minimum riparian buffer requirements for unincorporated areas and municipalities. It specified buffer areas of 300 feet from tidal waters, 300 feet from nontidal freshwater bodies, and 50 feet from non-blueline streams and drainage ditches. The Act allowed for public education on compliance. The bill was introduced in June 2023.

This bill revisited many of the debates of years ago between environmental activists and the agricultural community. DEFB visited with the bill sponsors between

sessions and outlined its flaws and related the history of similar efforts. The sponsors chose not to run the bill.

Freshwater Wetlands:

SB 290: This bill would have established a state nontidal wetlands program while maintaining the existing state tidal wetlands program under Chapter 66 of Title 7. Previously, nontidal wetlands were only regulated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the federal Clean Water Act (CWA). The new program aimed to provide local protection that is more efficient and responsive than the federal program, addressing gaps in federal jurisdiction and reducing uncertainty. The bill also includes technical revisions for consistency with existing language in 7 Del. C. Ch. 60.

DEFB received advance notice of this bill and expressed opposition to the sponsor. Once the bill was filed and a hearing scheduled, DEFB alerted and mobilized the Legislative Committee. Several members testified at the Senate hearing and DEFB submitted written comments in opposition. The sponsor withdrew the bill and promised an inclusive process to draft a new bill. This process is ongoing.

DEFB is proud to be a part of the success that the agricultural community had in the 152nd General Assembly. Members of the General Assembly and the community have shared their appreciation for DEFB's advocacy.

Comments on DEFB advocacy:

Representative Bill Carson –House Agricultural Committee Chair

“As Chair of the Agriculture Committee, I’d say I am satisfied with what we accomplished during the 152nd General Assembly tenure. With HB 87, we were able to re-establish the Delaware Agricultural Production Assistance Program for our farmers. We had a huge win for our dairy farmers with the passage of SB 273 which allows for the sale of raw milk. Hopefully, this will bring things around for our already struggling dairy farmers. With the help of the Delaware Farm Bureau, we hope to address the issues for our farmers with the

recent reassessments and other concerns during the 153rd General Assembly.”

Senator Russ Huxtable – Senate Agricultural Committee Chair

“As a freshman senator from Sussex, I was thrilled to be put on the Senate agriculture committee and even more honored to serve as its chair.

Delaware Farm Bureau reached out to me before I was even sworn in to discuss ag priorities and how we should work together. We collaborated on several initiatives, most notably the Ag Production Assistance bill (HB87) which will help a lot of farmers manage their risk at less cost.

As Chair, I am committed to ensuring that our farmers have a seat at the table when we talk about the future we want for our state.”

Representative Jesse Vanderwende

“Delaware Farm Bureau was instrumental in our success. The Dairy Risk Management Coverage bill (HB392) and the Milk Choice bill (SB273) allowing Delaware consumers to purchase safely produced Delaware “raw milk” were good steps in support of our dairy farmers. In addition, Farm Bureau is a watchdog on proposed bills that would be potentially damaging to agriculture.”

Senator Eric Buckson

“As a newly elected senator in my first term, I was very appreciative of the support and guidance provided by the Farm Bureau. I especially appreciated their leadership in helping me craft the raw milk legislation. I

believe that, ultimately, this was a bill about providing safe consumer choice and opportunity for family farms. I was gratified that, once the case was made, a solid bipartisan majority of my Senate colleagues and the House of Representatives agreed. This was a bill that couldn’t be passed ten years ago. This year, together we got it done.”

Senator Kyra Hoffner

“I am very supportive of agriculture to begin with, but the discussion we can have at Farm Bureau’s breakfasts provides a lot more background information which is useful to me when I discuss bills with other senators. The General Assembly has made significant strides in supporting our farming community. The communication we have with Delaware Farm Bureau is essential.”

Stephanie Knutsen – SB273 advocate, dairy farmer, and Farm Bureau member

“I learned the value of face-toface interaction with the senators and representatives. Some of them came up to talk after breakfast and showed real interest. Then later when I had the opportunity to be a witness for the bill in Legislative Hall, it was clear that those conversations paid off.

I will also say it became clear that the work by the Farm Bureau to build relationships with the members of the General Assembly was critical. I think we may have previously underestimated the power and influence of the Delaware Farm Bureau, especially when we work together.”

DEFB President Bill Powers, Senate Minority Caucus Director of Policy Christy Wright, Senator Eric Buckson, Gregg Knutsen, Stephanie Knutsen, Director of Agriculture and Environmental Affiars Nikko Brady, Don Clifton

How to prepare your resoultions for DEFB

The Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) Annual Meeting is approaching.

Approximately 70 delegates from the three counties gather to conduct important organizational business during this time.

Sydnie Grossnickle DEFB Program & Policy Coordinator

Policy resolutions are one of many items on the agenda.

You may wonder what a policy resolution is. Policy resolutions are generally related to the governance of the organization. In this case, they help mold the DEFB policy book. They allow the DEFB membership to make stance recommendations on issues important to the organization or that should be included in the policy book.

Where do these policy resolutions come from? The members. As a grassroots organization, the positions in the DEFB policy book come directly from the membership. Policies or sections are often created to address the Farm Bureau’s stance on an issue facing agriculture or related industries. For example, to address

the growing number of farmers experiencing deer damage, in 2019, DEFB members established a policy stating, “Delaware Farm Bureau recommends the Delaware Legislature form a Delaware Deer Damage Task Force to study and make recommendations of ways to decrease the white-tailed deer damage in Delaware.”

The policy book guides the state government affairs staff on how to approach different issues within the Delaware state government, such as bills from the General Assembly and Department of Natural Resource and Environment Council rules. Policy resolutions are critical to the DEFB, ensuring the policy book accurately reflects the organization's current views.

Policymaking within the organization starts with reviewing the current DEFB policy book, which can be found online at defb.org/resources/farmer-information. After reviewing, do you have a policy

resolution that should be added to the DEFB policy book, or maybe see one that should be updated? The best place to start is with the President and Board of Directors of your county farm bureau. All policy resolutions only come from the County Farm Bureaus. The state staff or board may not propose resolutions. Share your thoughts with your county president before moving on to the next steps.

New Castle County Farm Bureau President, Stewart Ramsey – stewart@ramseysfarm.com

Kent County Farm Bureau President, Jim Minner – jamesminner@ comcast.net

Sussex County Farm Bureau President, Steve Breeding – spbreeding@gmail.com

Once the idea is approved, the resolution must be written in a specific way. Policy resolutions follow a “whereas… now therefore be it resolved…” format. The “whereas” reflects the problems, and the

“therefore be it resolved” represents the solutions.

If you submit a policy resolution before the Annual meeting to be in the delegate packet, they are due to the state office by November 23, 2024. However, a delegate can also propose resolutions from the floor during the Annual Meeting. But it should follow the “whereas… therefore, be it resolved…” format. The delegate must provide three hard copies to the state staff upon proposal at annual meeting.

Policy resolution is one of the many ways that membership is heard and directs the organization’s legislative and advocacy efforts.

If you have any questions about the policy book, policy resolution process or how to write them, contact Sydnie Grossnickle, Program and Policy Coordinator, at sydnie. grossnickle@defb.org or 302-6973183.

DEFB addresses property reassessment

By Sydnie Grossnickle Delaware Farm Bureau

Delaware’s Court of Chancery ordered a statewide property reassessment to remedy a 2018 lawsuit challenging the fairness of Delaware’s public school financing system. It had been decades since the last property reassessments took place. Kent County’s last reassessment was in 1985, New Castle’s was in 1984, and Sussex had gone the longest, with their previous reassessment being in 1974. In 2021, each of the DE counties agreed to conduct property reassessments. The 152nd General Assembly passed House Bill 62 in 2023 to ensure that the reassessment process would occur more often. HB 62 requires the counties to reassess real property in the county at least once every five years.

Each county contracted with Tyler Technologies to conduct its reassessment processes. Tyler Tech-

nologies partners with government and schools to deliver tech solutions. They offer services for public administrations, courts and public safety, health and human services, and K-12 education. Data collectors visit each property within the county to evaluate the property and its improvements. If the property owner was not present or did not permit the Tyler Tech representative on their property, the representative made estimates from the public roadway or through aerial imaging. Kent County was the first to complete its reassessment process, and its residents received their property values as early as mid-December 2023. Tax bills arrived in the Summer of 2024. Many county residents, including farmers, were shocked by their property values and the increase in their tax bills. Many producers, especially in the poultry sector, saw a significant tax increase based on their property re-

assessment. Some faced increases as high as 80% or more. However, when organizations like the Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) and Delmarva Chicken Association became aware of the issues, it was too late to help Kent County producers find ways to offset the detrimental impact of their 2024 tax bills.

New Castle and Sussex counties should have their reassessed property values in the coming months. Sussex County is set to start sending assessments to property owners in mid-November. From information gathered during the Kent County reassessment, DEFB recommends property owners actively review the assessed value upon receiving it. Property owners can appeal their value to the county if they feel their value is incorrect. It is important to note that if a property owner appeals, they must have evidence that their value is incorrect. Evidence can be values from recent transac-

tions through websites like Realtor. com and Zillow or by contacting real estate professionals, including realtors. Property owners can visit their county government’s website for more information on the appeal process and the due dates.

The property reassessment has refueled producers' concerns about the taxation of farm structures. DEFB is actively in conversations with legislators about the topic is circulating draft legislation. Property owners can visit their county government's website if they have questions about the reassessment process. DEFB recommends that members share their concerns or experiences from the reassessment process. If there are any questions or comments members would like to share, they can reach out to the DEFB Program and Policy Coordinator Sydnie Grossnickle at sydnie. grossnickle@defb.org or 302-6973183.

Eric Boles to keynote closing session at 2025 American Farm Bureau Convention Updates from AFBF

By AFBF Staff

American Farm Bureau Federation

Eric Boles, a global expert in talent development, change management and cultural transformation, will address attendees as closing general session keynote speaker during the 2025 American Farm Bureau Convention on Monday, Jan. 27. Boles is founder and CEO of The Game Changers Inc., a leadership training and development company headquartered in Lakewood, Washington. Boles is a thought leader in business strategies, providing in-depth coaching and consulting to help organizational leaders increase productivity and attain peak performance from teams they lead, in addition to authoring “Moving to Great…Unleashing Your Best in Life and Work.”

Prior to becoming a sought-after speaker and consultant, Boles learned principles of peak performance, team dynamics and leadership from his experience as a wide receiver with the National Football League’s Green Bay Packers and New York Jets.

“In sports and agriculture, working as a team and continually driving forward are important, which is why Eric’s message is such a good fit for our convention attendees,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall.

“Again this year, our convention line-up is outstanding. We’ll hear from great speakers and watch exciting competitions, in addition to hosting critical conversations about top priorities for agriculture, including the farm bill.”

Convention Registration

“Step Up, Drive Forward” is the theme of AFBF’s 106th convention, which will be held Jan. 24-29, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas, with Duvall giving his annual address to Farm Bureau members during the opening general session on Sunday morning, Jan. 26.

View the high-level convention agenda at https://annualconvention. fb.org/schedule-of-events. Convention registration opened Oct. 1. Members may register for the convention and tours through their state Farm Bureau office.

What happens when a farm bill dies?

Washington, D.C., September 30, 2024

The 2018 farm bill will die tonight.

It could be revived later this year (or early next year) with another extension, but its time has come.

Roger Cryan Chief Economist AFBF

In some ways, this farm bill has been dying for several years: thanks to unanticipated price inflation in recent years, the dollar is only worth 80% of what it was in 2018. The fixed reference prices from that farm bill, which define the help from USDA that farmers depend on in tough times, are only worth 80% of what they were in 2018. The value of dollars

set aside for research and innovation grants and for certain conservation programs are only worth 80% of what they were in 2018.

In addition, a lot of the funding for other climate-focused conservation programs is being spent for the last time, rather than entering the farm bill baseline accounting so that it can become available for the next farm bill.

But we have shared before what farmers and the rest of us will miss without a new farm bill. What will we miss with no farm bill?

Death at Midnight

The death at midnight begins a calendar of expirations, let downs and price support on steroids.

Some programs will be shut down immediately, as their day-to-day authority depends on the farm bill. Among those are:

• Numerous international programs, including the Market Access and Foreign Market Development Cooperator trade promotion programs and Food for Progress;

• The Biobased Markets Program and Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels;

• Several important animal health programs;

• Programs for socially disadvantaged, veteran, young and beginning farmers;

• The Specialty Crops Block Grants program; and

• The National Organic Certification Cost-Share program. Conservation Stops… and Goes New enrollment in some conservation programs will stop at midnight; and some could continue for seven more years. Technical

assistance and several emergency conservation and restoration programs are permanently authorized.

The Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act added nearly $18 billion in funding for farm bill conservation programs – outside the farm bill and only for certain programs deemed “climate-related” by the law’s authors. These programs are all at least partially funded with supplemental funding that doesn’t have to be spent until fiscal year 2031, including the Conservation Stewardship Program (other than the Grassland Conservation Incentive), the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP, other than livestock projects), the Agricultural

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Conservation Easement Program and the Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

New enrollments for most of the rest of USDA’s conservation programs, however, end tonight, including the bedrock Conservation Reserve Program, livestock projects under the EQIP program, the Grassland Conservation Incentive, and several wetland, forest and watershed restoration programs.

Permanent Law

A number of current farm bill programs operate under permanent law, meaning law without a sunset date. The most important of these are crop insurance programs and the primary nutrition programs – the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and The Emergency Food Assistance Program . Happily, these will continue to operate, although without the potential improvements and updates that would happen in a new farm bill. They both also adjust automatically to changes in price levels each year – and the crop insurance program has avenues for expansion to new agricultural products and new tools – so that they don’t need as much updating as the rest of the farm bill.

Several disaster programs are also permanently authorized, including the Livestock Indemnity Program; Livestock Forage Disaster Program; Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bee, and Farm-Raised Fish Program; and Tree Assistance Program.

When people talk about permanent law and the end of a farm bill, however, they are usually talking about farm programs dating back to the 1940s and 1930s that are still on the books, but which are suspended in each farm bill. Various farm bill commodity support programs will be extended through the current crop year, but over time they will be replaced with permanent law.

Congress has left these laws on the books as a guarantee that it will take some action to prevent the return of these old programs. The programs would support certain farm prices that are (good news) far above the current support prices and (bad news) so far above market prices that they would be very disruptive to the agricultural economy and costly to the government. These sup-

port prices are based on prices in 1910 to 1914, with adjustments for rising input costs but not for (vastly) improved yields and input efficiencies. These “parity prices” are still published every month by USDA.

For the field crops that are eligible (wheat, cotton, rice, corn, sorghum, barley, oats and rye) this wouldn’t kick in until the 2025 crop is harvested.

The Farm Bill’s Dairy Cliff: Milk and Honey

What could kick in soon – on January 1 – are price support purchases of milk and honey. The all-milk price in July 2024 was $22.80 per hundredweight. The parity price of milk is $65.90 and permanent law says that USDA should support July milk at 75% of parity, or $49.43 per hundredweight. This was historically translated into cheese, butter and nonfat dry milk purchases: the equivalent cheese price would be about $6 per pound, compared to recent prices below $2.25 per pound.

The July market price of honey was $2.53 per pound; the support price under permanent law would be $4.75.

The last time the farm bill expired for more than a couple months, USDA slow-walked rulemaking to implement these purchases and a new farm bill was in place before a pound of milk or honey was purchased; but USDA has the know-how and the facilities to begin these purchases by January 2nd, if they are so inclined. Purchasing cheese, butter and nonfat dry milk at multiples of the market price would be severely disruptive to markets, would badly distort pricing under the federal milk marketing order system and would undermine demand at home and abroad in return for very uneven benefits to farmers over a limited time. And the release of USDA stocks when permanent law is suspended again would depress markets for months.

On the other hand, it would send a strong message to Congress that action is needed.

Corn at $7.45, Wheat at $15.08; But

No Safety Net for Soy

If there was no new farm bill or extension through next year, USDA would pay excessive prices under these old programs for certain crops harvested in 2025 through purchases and nonrecourse loans. The table below shows the support prices for all the crops supported under permanent law. Every other commodity loses its support programs: no program for soybeans, peanuts, sunflower seeds, canola or several other crops.

Once again, permanent law would mean a heavy cost to the government for uneven and likely temporary benefits to farmers; the high support prices would drive up prices for food, fiber and fuel, at home and abroad; and the release of stocks if and when permanent law was suspended again would flood the market.

CCC Authority

The Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) has historically been used as the secretary of Agriculture’s Swiss Army knife (regardless of political party). The farm bill directs numerous programs to draw funding from the CCC and many of those will expire tonight and in the coming months, including the commodity price and margin support programs.

The secretary’s broad ad hocauthority to support farm prices, farm income, agricultural marketing, exports, domestic consumption and conservation programs, and to provide emergency relief remains, however. And when the Department of the Treasury pays the Agriculture Secretary’s bills this fall, he has a $30 billion line of credit to work with.

This gives the secretary flexibility to operate farm income support and disaster programs to supplement action not taken by Congress. This is in line with his recent suggestions that he can use CCC authority to fill the funding gap in various farm proposals, and a point of contention among some in Congress.

Conclusion

The 2018 farm bill was a good law for its time, but that time is past.

And that farmers are calling for a new farm bill, and not an extension, is telling.

Farmers face many difficulties this year and next, from crashing crop prices to backed up transportation systems to this weekend’s devastating hurricane. All of these demonstrate how much farmers can suffer from a lack of the certainty and support that a new farm bill can provide.

It’s not too late to imagine a new five-year farm bill coming out of this Congress. It is not that hard, unfortunately, to imagine the price of inaction.

The author gratefully acknowledges Jim Monke, Randy Alison Aussenberg and Megan Stubbs at the Congressional Research Service. Their overview of farm bill expiration and permanent law was a key foundation for the above discussion. See our Market Intel reports for more discussion and analysis of farm policy and agricultural markets.

For more information on the farm bill, visit https://www.fb.org/ topic/farm-bill For acccess to AFBF's Market Intel, visit https:// www.fb.org/market-intel

Corporate Transparency Act deadline looming

By Samantha Ayoub Associate Economist AFBF

Over 230,000 farms are up against a Jan. 1, 2025, deadline to file their detailed Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with the Treasury Department under the requirements of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). Despite facing steep fines and possible jail time for failing to file, less than 11% of eligible businesses nationwide have filed their BOI. Efforts to protect small businesses from these invasive requirements and the harsh punishment for noncompliance have stalled in Congress. Let’s review what the Corporate Transparency Act means for farmers.

What is the Corporate Transparency Act?

The Corporate Transparency Act was passed in 2021 to combat money laundering and organized crime funding. The CTA requires that registered businesses register any “beneficial owner” of the company with the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). The BOI filing requirement applies to any small business that files an incorporating document with their state business authority to conduct business in the United States, including corporations, limited partnerships or limited liability companies (LLCs). The FinCEN classification of a “small entity” is having less than 20 employees and under $5 million in cash receipts.

While the actual structure of a business – and the process to incorporate – can vary slightly state to state, most farms operate as passthrough entities in which the company’s income is passed directly into the owner’s individual income, rather than being taxed as business revenue. When a business files an incorporating document, it is classified as a C-corporation (C-corp) or S-corporation (S-corp). When a business files an organizing document, it is generally classified as an LLC. C-corps are legally separated from their owners and are taxed at both a business and individual level. S-corps, partnerships and LLCs pass business revenue through to be taxed at the owner level, but they provide liability protection to their owners by operating as independent entities. Beneficial owners include anyone

with a significant stake in the company, whether or not they have direct legal ties to the business. This may include holding at least 25% of a company’s shares, having a similar level of control over the company’s equity or holding significant influence over the company’s decisions and operations (i.e., the authority to exercise substantial managerial control over the reporting company). Should a business partake in illegal activities, each such stakeholder is accountable for the crimes of the business.

Filings must include all personal information like addresses, birthdays and identification numbers for each owner. While this report does not have to be renewed after the initial filing, changes of address, new driver’s licenses or changes of name all require updated filings. Since having control over a business’ operations qualifies as beneficial ownership, a restructuring of job duties, even if the person does not have a legal ownership stake in the company, could also trigger requirements to file updates.

Liable Agricultural Firms

The vast majority of farms and ranches operate as sole proprietorships (Family & Individual in Figure 1) and are likely exempt from filing their BOI, but 230,792 farming operations are state-registered businesses, either as corporations or partnerships, according to the 2022

Census of Agriculture. These 12% of all farm operations operate 33% of farm acres.

Even though these farms may be legally classified as corporations, they are still small family firms. While the vast majority of farms are pass through entities, 85% of farm businesses formed as c-corps are family-owned and fall well under the employee and revenue cap set by the CTA.

Farms and ranches aren’t the only agricultural businesses that have to meet CTA requirements. Many feed and supply stores, crop marketers like grain elevators and the greater rural business community are also likely required to file their BOI and subject to penalties if they do not.

The regulatory burdens and potential enforcement crackdowns could have ripple effects throughout the entire food, fiber and fuel supply chains.

Filing Delays

With just three months left to register, only 11% of the estimated 30 million companies that fall under the filing requirements of Jan. 1, 2025, have successfully filed with FinCEN.

Businesses that fail to file, or do not update records when needed, could face criminal fines up to $10,000 and additional civil penalties of up to $591 per day they fail to file. If the hefty fines are not de-

terrence enough, failure to file could also lead to felony charges and up to two years in prison, whether or not these paperwork violations are linked to any other crime. Since these criminal risks also apply to record updating, tracking these CTA requirements could be a grey cloud for small business owners well beyond Jan. 1.

Corporate Transparency Act Speedbumps

A lack of awareness and other permitting and filing requirements are likely the biggest reason farms and other businesses fail to meet the CTA obligations. Businesses already file registrations with state agencies to operate, leading many to believe their information is recorded with the correct agencies, but FinCEN does not receive ownership information from these agencies. Many financial institutions require their own BOI reports from customers to absolve themselves of responsibility for fraudulent transactions. However, these do not fulfill the new CTA requirements as they are not reported to FinCEN. CTA filing deadlines also vary depending on business inception. Jan. 1, 2025, is the deadline for businesses established before Jan. 1, 2024. If businesses were registered in the 2024 calendar year, they only had 90 days to file their BOI upon

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80 years of Delaware Farm Bureau Committee Corner

Debbie Kirk DEFB Promotion & Education Chair

For eight decades, the Delaware Farm Bureau (DFB) has been at the heart of Delaware’s agricultural community. Founded in 1944, DFB has played a crucial role in advocating for farmers, supporting agricultural advancements, and fostering a strong sense of community across the state’s farms. As the DFB celebrates its 80th anniversary, it is important to reflect on its history, its achievements, and its vision for the future.

The Delaware Farm Bureau was formed at a time when Delaware's farming industry was evolving rapidly. The original founders, a group of determined farmers, came together with a mission: to create an organization that could represent their interests, improve farming practices, and ensure a prosperous future for agriculture in Delaware. In its early years, the DFB focused on uniting small farmers to create a stronger collective voice in policy

discussions, securing fair prices for their products, and promoting rural development. During this era, the Farm Bureau worked closely with local governments and cooperatives to build a foundation for agricultural advocacy that remains strong today.

During the 1960s, Delaware agriculture diversified, and the Farm Bureau responded by expanding its initiatives. This was a period of agricultural innovation with modern technologies and the Delaware Farm Bureau played a pivotal role in educating farmers about these advancements, providing resources to help with their operations.

In the early 2000s, Farmers markets grew in popularity, and the bureau encouraged Delawareans to support local agriculture, benefiting both the farmers and the community. The Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation, incorporated in 2013, was established to build awareness, understanding, and positive public perception about Delaware’s farm operations, promote fresh local food, and sponsor the Ag Education Mobile Classroom. In addition to the Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation, there are multiple committees that support the Delaware Farm Bureau and provide the education

and outreach necessary to meet the goals of the organization. The mission of the DE Delaware Farm Bureau Promotion & Education Committee is to partner with Delaware farm families to create relationships with our neighbors, the consumer, to promote Delaware’s number one industry and educate the public and farmer alike. The Young Farmers & Ranchers work to engage and empower future Delaware Farm Bureau leaders through leadership development and social networking activities with other young agricultural professionals. The Women’s Committee dedicates time to community outreach and volunteer opportunities as well as raising money for the annual scholarship program. Each of these groups provide valuable resources and opportunities that support the mission of the Delaware Farm Bureau.

The Delaware Farm Bureau continues its tradition of advocacy. The DFB has worked diligently to ensure that Delaware farmers have a voice in critical discussions at both the state and national levels. As the Delaware Farm Bureau celebrates 80 years, it remains deeply committed to supporting the state's farmers and evolving to meet new challeng-

es. Looking forward, the Delaware Farm Bureau’s role will be to continue uniting the agricultural community, providing resources for innovation, and standing as a strong advocate for farmers at every level. As agriculture continues to evolve with advancements in technology and shifts in consumer demand, the DFB will remain a steady presence, advocating for the farmers who feed and fuel Delaware’s economy. For 80 years, the Delaware Farm Bureau has been a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural community. From the beginning, the Delaware Farm Bureau has consistently championed the interests of farmers, adapted to the changing agricultural landscape, and helped shape the future of farming in Delaware. As the organization looks ahead to its next 80 years, it does so with a legacy of success and a commitment to innovation, ensuring that Delaware agriculture continues to thrive for generations to come.

Attend leadership development workshops with Young Farmers and Ranchers

The Delaware Farm Bureau is hosting its first conference in a few weeks, with exciting opportunities that benefit agriculturalists of all ages. With a two-day format this year, participants will experience engaging sessions designed to develop future leaders in agriculture. Friday afternoon kicks off with a Membership and Member Engagement session led by Austin Large, Senior Director of Membership & Organization Development for the American Farm Bureau Federation.

You’ll learn tools and strategies to confidently engage prospective members and communicate the value of a Farm Bureau membership, helping to expand its impact and attract new members.

Following this, Betty Resnick, an economist with the American Farm Bureau Federation, will lead an Economic Update session. This session will highlight the latest insights on the market and policy.

Saturday's sessions offer even more valuable learning. Nationwide will host a life insurance session, explaining why it’s important to think about life insurance as part of your overall financial security at a young age.

Farmer Advocate - David Hafner, will share his journey of advocat-

ing for agriculture. He’ll teach you how to confidently tell your story and communicate the importance of agriculture. As young leaders, being able to advocate effectively for the future of agriculture is crucial for ensuring that our voice is heard in the decisions that impact our livelihood.

After a day of learning, there will be a fun, team-building activity—a gingerbread house decorating contest. It’s a great chance to unwind, get creative, and connect with other members in a relaxed, competitive environment.

Breakfast and lunch are provided both days, so you’ll have time to socialize and network. This convention is an excellent opportunity for young people to get involved with the Delaware Farm Bureau and Del-

aware Young Farmers and Ranchers. Beyond the sessions, you’ll gain valuable knowledge and build connections that will help you grow both personally and professionally.

If you’re looking to make an impact in the agricultural community, this is the perfect place to start!

After the sessions, the DEFB Annual Banquet will take place, where YF&R will honor their Member of the Year. The committee will also hold an auction to raise funds, helping our members expand their activities and opportunities throughout the year.

If you would like to donate an item to our auction, contact Sydnie Grossnickle at Sydnie.grossnickle@ defb.org or 302-697-3183.

Connor Vincent YF&R Member

Delaware Farm Bureau encourages increased safety during harvest season

Jaiden Cain DEFB Membership & Outreach Coordinator

During harvest season, you’ll see more farming equipment on the roads as farmers travel between fields. With this increase in traffic, it’s important for both farmers and the community to take extra precautions. National Farm Safety and Health Week runs from September 15-21, and transportation incidents remain the leading cause of death for farmers and farm workers. In light of this, the Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) is urging everyone to prioritize road safety during harvest.

June Unruh, DEFB Ag Safety Conference chair, shares that safety should be a part of everyday life, “Whatever you’re doing, wherever you are, safety becomes who we are.” She added, “Rural road safety should be a top priority amongst all drivers to ensure the safety of everyone sharing the road. Farmers have the same legal rights as other motorists to drive their vehicles on public roads.”

For farmers, it’s crucial to stay on top of equipment maintenance, ensure all operators are familiar with their manuals, and have a clear emergency plan in place. While it may be tempting to push through fatigue and finish a field, it’s essential to stop and rest when needed. Make sure someone knows your location and expected return time, in case of an emergency.

When traveling on public roads, stay vigilant and aware of traffic around you. Ensure your equipment meets all lighting and marking requirements. Jim Minner, President of the Kent County Farm Bureau, recommends using extra lighting to increase visibility to drivers. Having a vehicle follow your equipment with hazard lights on is another way to alert motorists. For farmers needing help moving equipment, the Delaware State Police offers an escort service through “Jobs4Blue.” Contact them at 877-425-8330 to arrange for an off-duty officer. For the public, remember that farm equipment is slower and larger than regular vehicles. Be cautious, especially on rural roads, which are often narrow and winding. Farmers will pull over when it is safe to allow

vehicles to pass, so avoid passing in no-passing zones. Refrain from following too closely and never pass on the left, as what might appear as a farmer moving over for you could be them preparing for a turn. Unruh encouraged the public to be patient with farmers because they are working to feed the world. She said, “While the farmer may be slowing traffic down, they are responsible for harvesting their fields to provide the food that feeds our

families. The next time you encounter farm equipment on the road, remember to slow down and be patient. By being aware of farm equipment during your travels, you can help make the trip safe for both you and Delaware’s farmers.” Delaware Farm Bureau urges all to take precautions; everyone deserves to make it home safely. For more information on Delaware Farm Bureau, visit defb.org.

DEFB Women's Committee to sponsor Wreath's Across America

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau

The Delaware Farm Bureau Women’s Committee will be volunteering at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro on Saturday, Dec. 14, as a sponsorship group for the Wreaths Across America program.

The Women’s Committee deeply values events that honor our fallen soldiers. By placing wreaths on

the headstones of America’s fallen heroes, they aim to pay tribute not only to the soldiers and their families but also to teach younger generations about the significance of freedom. The Committee encourages everyone to support this meaningful cause.

Wreaths can be purchased in advance for $17 through the Women’s Committee, which will receive a portion of the proceeds. Committee members will also help place the wreaths at gravesites on National Wreaths Across America Day.

Although they will volunteer in Millsboro, wreaths can be purchased in memory of a deceased veteran at any cemetery or in honor of a living hero – wreaths purchased in honor of a hero will be placed on

gravesites not yet sponsored.

According to Wreaths Across America, "2.7 million veterans’ wreaths were placed in total across the country at 3,702 participating locations. More than two million volunteers helped place wreaths, a third of whom were children."

To purchase a wreath through the Women's Committee or to volun¬teer on National Wreaths Across American Day, contact Sussex County Chair Connie Fox or the DEFB state office at 302-697-3183.

Wreath sponsorships can also be reserved online through the Women's Committee by visiting https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/ pages/165882/Overview/?relatedId=14789.

Mary B Gooden lays a wreath on a fallen soldier's headstone.

$9,000 raised at DEFB Foundation's Lace Up for Ag Literacy 5k Run/Walk Foundation Focus

The Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation, in partnership with Seashore Striders, hosted the 4th Annual Lace Up for Ag Literacy 5K Run/ Walk, on Saturday, Oct. 19, at Hopkins Farm Creamery in Lewes, raising over $9,000. This annual event was more than just a race; it was a celebration of agriculture and education, aimed at raising essential funds for the Foundation’s Mobile Ag Lab program. This initiative plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural literacy among Delaware’s youth by providing hands-on educational experiences that cover various topics, including careers in agriculture, the journey of food from farm to table, and the importance of healthy eating through the five food groups. This event lets the Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation's commitment to building awareness and understanding of Delaware’s agricultural land-

scape and fresh local food education for children and consumers spread.

“We were thrilled to host the 4th Annual Lace Up for Ag Literacy,” said Bill Powers, DEFB Foundation Chair. “This event offered a wonderful opportunity to promote both physical activity and agricultural education. The funds raised helped us continue our mission of educating youth and fostering a positive public perception of Delaware's farming operations and local food.”

Participants of all ages were encouraged to join in the fun as runners, walkers, or supporters. The race kicked off at 9 am with a quick kids run beforehand. The first runner-in was Mark Walchinsky who ran an impressive 18 minutes and 19 seconds. Later as runners continued to come in Hopkins Farm Creamery graciously opened their ice cream stand for racegoers and supporters.

“The event went off without a hitch, we were thrilled with the turnout and the beautiful morning at Hopkins Farm Creamery”, said DEFB Foundation Coordinator, Alexis Langenfelder.

The event was a morning filled with fitness and fun! For race results visit https://defb.org/foundation/ lace-up-for-ag-literacy/.

Alexis Langenfelder DEFB Ag Literacy & Program Coordinator

The picturesque covered bridge marked the halfway point of the 5K route for runners

Walkers and runners of all ages were welcome to participate in the 4th Annual Lace up for Ag Literacy fundraising event.

Connor Vincent, left, and Maci Carter, right, accepting their awards for placing in the 5K Run/Walk.

Delaware officials unveil new sign to celebrate Delaware's Agricultural Lands Preservation

By Stacey Hofmann

Delaware Department of Agriculture

Governor John Carney and Delaware Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse, along with members of the General Assembly, the Aglands Preservation Board of Trustees, and other agricultural advocates, joined together at Shadybrook Farms, home of the Cartanza family, to unveil a new farm sign celebrating Delaware’s Agricultural Lands Preservation Program.

The original goal of the program’s founders back in 1991 was to preserve enough land to maintain agriculture for future generations, which was 50% of the available farmland at the time. Easement selections began in 1996, and 28 rounds later, the program has preserved almost 30% of Delaware farmland with 155,486 acres.

“I want to thank all of our farm families who make it possible to continue the agriculture industry in our state through your hard work and dedication to the land and by putting your farms into this program,” said Governor Carney. “As one of the best farmland preservation programs in the country, we have put significant resources into this program to make sure that generational farm families stay in the business, demonstrating that we value agriculture as an important industry in our

state, along with the open space that Delaware farms provide.”

Under the Carney Administration, the Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) secured $78 million in state funding, with additional funding from county and federal sources, to preserve 33,409 acres of farmland on 403 family farms – the highest number of farms in the program’s history.

“It has been a pleasure working with Governor Carney, members of the General Assembly, and the Board over these past eight years to ensure a future for Delaware agriculture. I want to thank the Governor for prioritizing farmland preservation and our legislators for recognizing the need to fund this program,” said Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse. “Above all, I want to thank Delaware farmers for trusting the State of Delaware to ensure their farmland remains in production for perpetuity.”

Then, both Carney and Scuse stepped off to the side of the podium, raising the blue velvet drape to reveal the new farm sign available to landowners who have preserved their farm and would like to promote the program at the end of their farm lanes or on the farm.

Mark Collins, Chairman of the Delaware Aglands Preservation Foundation, commented, “This sign is fantastic and a great way for

the public to see the family farms that have chosen to preserve their farms in Delaware, and I can’t wait to put one at my farm.”

Collins thanked Secretary Scuse for his continued commitment to Delaware farmers, noting that during his two terms as Delaware Secretary of Agriculture, the program has preserved 687 farms on 63,100 acres with funding of $122.5 million. Over 60% of the total funding since the inception of the Delaware Aglands Preservation Program has been secured under Scuse’s leadership.

“As someone with strong farming roots from Sussex County, I’m unbelievably proud of Delaware’s achievements with its Agricultural Lands Preservation Program. I’ve seen the impact of this preservation in our communities and know our continued strong production signals that we are moving in the right direction and not only investing in farmers but in the agricultural science to power farming of the future. It’s been an honor to help further these efforts as a state legislator and with the Bond Bill Committee,” said Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long. “The First State is first in the nation in the value of agricultural products per acre and I know by working together, Delaware’s economic vitality continues to blossom.”

Landowners who have preserved their farms through the Delaware Aglands Preservation Program can submit a request for a sign online at https://de.gov/aglands.

“I am dedicated to ensuring that the Foundation continues and that we ensure that families have a chance not just to survive, but to thrive,” said State Treasurer Colleen Davis. “When we have dedicated the land to agricultural production, it cannot be moved somewhere else. It means it will consistently and continually be part of our economy. And that thread is what remains a vibrant thread for our economy, and for the ability for families to thrive, and for all of us to see these beautiful places that are producing food, that ensures people are nourished well, and that we continue to have a thriving community to live in.”

The Delaware Agricultural Lands Preservation Foundation’s Board of Trustees includes representatives from agriculture and state agencies. Trustees are Mark Collins, chairman; James G. Vanderwende, vice-chairman; Janice Truitt, treasurer; William H. “Chip” Narvel Jr., secretary; Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse; State Treasurer Colleen C. Davis; Secretary of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Shawn Garvin; Dorothy Abbott; Robert Walls, Sr.; Robert Emerson; and H. Grier Stayton.

Governor Carney and Secretary of Agriculture Scuse unveil the new farm sign for the Ag Lands Preservation Program. Photo by Delaware Department of Agriculture

The Cartanza Family of Shadybrook Farms hosted the unveiling of the new Ag Land Preservation sign. Photo by Delaware Department of Agriculture

DEFB hosts two-day conference with annual meeting, breakout sessions, and banquet

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau

Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) is excited to announce its upcoming two-day conference, scheduled for December 13-14, 2024, at the Modern Maturity Center, located at 1121 Forrest Ave, Dover, DE 19904. The event will feature the organization's annual meeting of delegates, informative breakout sessions, and the annual banquet.

The conference will begin on Friday, December 13, with check-in and breakfast starting at 7:30 AM. The Annual Meeting of Delegates will kick off promptly at 8:30 AM, followed by lunch, sponsored by Nationwide, at 12:30 PM. After lunch, all attendees, including delegates, Farm Bureau members, and community members, are invited to participate in the afternoon breakout sessions.

Friday's breakout sessions will

feature speakers from American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), and the Delaware Water Supply Coordinating Council (WSCC).

Austin Large, AFBF Senior Director of Membership and Organization Development, will present on membership engagement and retention strategies, while, concurrently, the WSCC discusses the drought implications and salt intrusion.

AFBF Economist, Betty Resnick will give an economic update, while the DNREC Deer Damage Advisory Committee meets to discuss deer damage in Delaware.

On Saturday, December 14, the morning sessions will focus on personal and professional development. The day will begin with a presentation from Nationwide on life insurance. Attendees will then

break into small groups for a fun, team-building Gingerbread House Competition, where participants will collaborate using each team member's strengths to construct the best design. The gingerbread houses will be voted on at the annual banquet and the top team will receive an award.

The morning sessions will conclude with a leadership and professional development workshop led by David Hafner. Hafner, a seasoned agricultural advocate and educator, has extensive experience with Farm Bureau, 4-H, and FFA programs. His session will focus on practical strategies for leadership growth, drawing on his experience coordinating interactive learning experiences at local, state, and national levels. Attendees can expect to leave the session with better public speaking skills and a greater understanding of leading the multi-generational

workforce. A complimentary lunch will follow to close out the morning. The conference will conclude with the DEFB Annual Banquet on Saturday evening. Doors will open at 5:00 PM, with dinner served at 6:00 PM. The banquet will feature award presentations, a silent and live auction, live music by Quade Gannon, a photo booth, and line dancing. This is the only paid event of the conference. Tickets are $40 per person, and those wishing to attend are encouraged to RSVP in advance by contacting Jan Cartanza at 302-6973183 or via email at Jan.Cartanza@ defb.org.

DEFB looks forward to welcoming members and the community to this exciting and informative event. To register for the two-day conference, call the state office at 302-6973183 by November 27th.

For more information on Delaware Farm Bureau, visit defb.org.

Youth in Ag Spotlight National FFA Officer candidacy

Since the 6th grade, the blue and gold jacket has been integral to my life. It serves as a legacy for all who were FFA members before and for all who will follow. This October, the jacket that means so much in my life says something new. I and 36 others have the opportunity to wear jackets that read “National Officer Candidate” as we represent different state associations in hopes of serving the over 1 million FFA members. In preparation for the chance to serve as a National FFA Officer, we have spent hours practicing speaking, and facilitating, and have studied the agricultural industry intensively. This process allows each candidate to grow tremendously as a person and an advocate for the

organization that has benefited us beyond belief. It is truly important to extend my thanks to every individual who I’ve had the chance to interact with throughout my life because it is the help you have provided that has led me to this moment! It was in my sophomore year of high school that I first expressed interest in the National Officer Candidate process. I had the privilege of watching Jackson Sylvester from my home FFA chapter, Lake Forest FFA, get elected as the National FFA Secretary. Since that moment, I have become much more comfortable in pursuing my passions and feel blessed to be chasing my dream now. Looking into the process that will take place in Indianapolis, Indiana, I cannot help but be at peace and humbled. I am ecstatic to represent all of Delaware FFA’s incredible members, our diverse communities, and the agricultural industry that spans from the top to the bottom of our state!

CTA DEADLINE

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notification of their business certification. Businesses established after Jan. 1, 2025, will have even stricter filing requirements; they will only have 30 days after notification of their formation to submit their initial BOI report to FinCEN. This 30day window also applies to updates to previously filed information for all registered businesses, adding another chore for small business owners (or those exercising “substantial control”) going through business restructuring, or major life changes, such as a family death or divorce. While BOI is free to file, business owners should consult attorneys or accountants to determine whether or not they are required to file and, if so, when to ensure they comply with FinCEN’s standards. This adds another financial burden for farmers already facing significant cash flow problems during a tough year. However, professional advice may be helpful if you run into problems attempting to file.

often lack

the time and the staff to track ever-changing rules and regulations pushed out by the federal government. The Corporate Transparency Act is an added burden for small business owners nationwide, including farmers and ranchers. With unclear guidance and a lack of public awareness, businesses of all sizes are struggling to comply with new BOI requirements and are quickly approaching a deadline that bears criminal consequences. There have been unsuccessful attempts to extend the filing period for small businesses, but Congress has a long laundry list of other legislation to pass before the end of the year, including a much-needed modernized farm bill and disaster relief. For now, business owners should anticipate a crackdown on CTA filings starting Jan. 1 and take steps to ensure they are in compliance.

See the Treasury Department’s BOI filing page at https://www.fincen.gov/boi.

Noah Dixon DE FFA National Officer Candidate

National Officer Candidates attend training in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

Allen highlights Nationwide’s commitment to accountability and efficiency Nationwide News

By Jaiden Cain Delaware Farm Bureau

For Scott Allen, a Nationwide agent with Staples Insurance, accountability and efficiency are critical for any insurance company. Since 2000, Scott has been selling insurance through Staples Insurance, based in Harrington, Delaware.

Originally starting his career in finance, Scott transitioned into the insurance industry, eventually becoming agribusiness certified. Growing up in Laurel, surrounded by farmland, Scott gained experience in agriculture and expanded his knowledge through Nationwide’s agribusiness training program, which involved two weeks of classes each month for six months.

“The great thing about Nationwide is that they stand by their claims,” Scott said, sharing examples of clients he has helped over the years. In one instance, a farmer contacted him about a collapsed irrigation system. Scott personally visited the farm, took photos, submitted the claim, and Nationwide paid the claim. In another case, a tornado devastated half of a farmer’s farm in Laurel, and Nationwide covered the

substantial claim.

While Nationwide’s rates may sometimes be higher than other insurance companies, Scott emphasized that their financial strength allows them to cover claims reliably.

“You get what you pay for,” he said. “Other companies don’t have the resources Nationwide does to back their policies, especially in catastrophic situations. It’s the financial responsibility of a company to only write policies they can afford to pay out.”

Scott noted that many farmers insured by other companies come to him, asking to return to Nationwide after experiencing the difference in service. He attributes this loyalty to Nationwide’s deep roots in the agricultural community. Founded by farmers through the Ohio Farm Bureau, Nationwide continues to prioritize farmers, with several sitting on the company’s board.

Nationwide’s partnership with the Farm Bureau is mutually beneficial to the company and the farm community. “The partnership isn’t just about helping Nationwide,” Scott said. “It’s about helping farmers.”

Scott and other Nationwide agents throughout Delaware maintain a

Scott Allen of Staples and Associates

strong relationship with the Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB). They frequently attend DEFB events, providing members with information about Nationwide’s offerings and commitment to the farming community.

For more information about Nationwide or to contact Scott Allen, visit https://staplesagency.com/. To find a Nationwide agent near you, visit https://agency.nationwide.com/ de.

Dispelling the myth: The hidden dangers of rural roads

The following information is provided by Nationwide®, the #1 farm and ranch insurer in the U.S.1

What’s more dangerous: driving on a rural road or a congested city street? If you picked the latter, you’re not alone. According to Nationwide’s 2024 Driving Behaviors Survey, less than 5% of survey respondents believe rural areas are more dangerous. However, the reality might surprise you.

2021 traffic safety facts2

• 42,939 motor vehicle traffic fatalities: 17,103 (40%) in rural areas, 25,598 (60%) in urban areas and 238 (1%) in unspecified areas

• 20% of U.S. population lived in rural areas but accounted for 32% of total vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and 40% of traffic fatalities

• Fatality rate per 100 million VMT was 1.5 times higher in rural areas than in urban areas

For Nationwide, the number one farm insurer in the U.S.2, rural road safety is a particular concern. That’s why we surveyed 1,800 consumer and commercial drivers on what they observe and the hazards the landscape and driver behavior pose when traveling on rural roads.

“We conducted the survey to better understand the challenges impacting our customers and agents, and learn how we can better support them,” said Nationwide Senior Associate Vice President for Agribusiness Risk Management Laramie Sandquist.

The survey revealed, in fact, that rural roads pose unique and often underestimated dangers for drivers, and in many respects, they can be more hazardous than urban roads. Whether you're a co-op driver delivering grain, a farmer transporting livestock, or a rural resident commuting to town, it’s crucial to know and respect

the risks associated with rural driving.

Why are rural roads more dangerous?

The Federal Highway Administration attributes the higher fatality rate on rural roads to various factors, including:

• Physical characteristics of rural roadways. Rural roads often have tighter curves, limited visibility, less lighting and lack shoulders and clear zones, which are crucial for vehicle recovery when they veer off.

• Behavioral issues. Drivers on rural roads tend to exceed the speed limit, fail to use their seat belts and drive impaired.

• Longer emergency response times. Crashes on rural roads carry a high risk of severe injury and fatalities due to longer travel distances for emergency responders and greater distances to trauma centers.

"While there are many causes of rural road accidents, staying

distraction-free is key," Sandquist said. "Our survey finds one-third of commercial drivers admit they sometimes or often feel distracted behind the wheel. That’s why we created the Drive the 5 safety program to help transform driving behavior."

Plan ahead and minimize distractions on rural roads

If you’re new to a rural area, plan your route ahead of time. That way, you can know what to expect on the road. Even if you do plan ahead, staying alert is the best way to prevent accidents on the road. The use of cell phones and other electronic distractions such as GPS navigation systems, work-related texts and social media activity are major causes of driver distraction. They’re big reasons why Nationwide advocates for hands-free legislation and distracted driving laws around the country.

”Driver error, distracted driving and fatigue are among the leading causes for accidents on rural roads. That’s why knowing the hazards of the environment

around you, causes of distracted driving, and how to avoid them is so important to us at Nationwide,” Sandquist said.

Get resources to stay safe on the road

Geared for drivers in the agriculture, food and fuel sectors, Nationwide's Drive the 5 program guides drivers through five key principles of road safety and offers essential safety training to help improve driver behavior.

Visit AgInsightCenter.com for more resources and expert tips to help you run a successful business and maintain the safety of your operation.

1. Source: A.M Best Market Share Report 2023

2. https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot. gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813488.pdf

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