Summer 2018 Financial Partner

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FarmCreditEast.com

PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE

THE IMPORTANCE OF LAND GRANT RESEARCH SUMMER 2018

INSIDE

2 | News & Views

9 | Financial Services Videos

14 | Public Policy Update

3 | CEO Column

10 | Dairy Leader Insights

16 | FarmStart

4 | Cover Story

12 | Community Involvement

17 | Scholarship Winners

N E & W V IE S WS Careers with Impact We have an outstanding team at Farm Credit East, but are always seeking new talent to join us! If you’re looking to provide impactful financial, business and risk management solutions to farmers, foresters and fishermen across the Northeast, then Farm Credit East is the perfect fit for you. Even if we don’t currently have an open position, we’d love to get the conversation started. FarmCreditEast.com/careers

Visit us at Empire Farm Days!

Stop by and visit Farm Credit East at this year’s Empire Farm Days. The show will take place August 7, 8 and 9, 2018 at Rodman Lott & Son Farms in Seneca Falls, NY. Be sure to visit our tent at 528 Seneca Acres Drive.

Looking for local farm products?

Visit Farm Credit East’s Farm Fresh Guide! This guide provides a listing of resources to find local farm products throughout New Jersey, New York and New England.

FarmCreditEast.com/FarmFreshGuide

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FINANCIAL PARTNER

Welcome New Board Members In April, customer-members elected two new directors to the Farm Credit East Board.

Philip “Jamie” Jones, of Shelton, Conn., was elected to a four-year term. Jamie is co-owner and managing member of Jones Family Farms, LLC, a 400-acre retail farm growing strawberries, blueberries, pumpkins and Christmas trees.

He also owns Jones Family Farms Winery, LLC. Terry Zittel, of Eden, N.Y., was elected to a four-year term.

Terry is corporate secretary and business manager of Amos Zittel & Sons, Inc., a wholesale vegetable, flower and retail market business growing 300 acres of fresh market vegetables, including sweet corn, peppers, lettuce and more.

In other regions, Michael Brooks, managing partner and majority owner of Dusty Lane Farms LLC in Elmer, N.J., was reelected to a four-year term.

Congratulations to the winning candidates. Thank you to our customermembers for voting and to our nominating committee for providing an excellent slate of candidates.

At the April 24 reorganization meeting, the Board reelected Matthew Beaton, of Wareham, Mass., as its chair, and elected Laurie Griffen, of Stillwater, N.Y., as vice chair. For more information on Farm Credit East’s Board of Directors, visit FarmCreditEast.com/Board.

Long-Term Commitment to the Region’s Agriculture Farm Credit East is pleased to announce the opening of its Cooperstown, N.Y., office. The new location serves 1,600 customers in the Mohawk and Schoharie Valley area, from Madison County on the west across to Schenectady County in the east. The office brings together two employee teams to provide enhanced customer support to better serve the area’s customers. The new facility is also is equipped with meeting space available for community use.

THE SUPPORTING CAST

CEO’s MESSAGE

Bill Lipinski, CEO, Farm Credit East If you’ve been to the movies lately and

Farm Credit East customers know

Another important function of Northeast

stayed to watch the credits, it’s amazing to

better than anyone how competitive the

universities is the training of the future

see how many people are involved in the

marketplace is — whether competing in

workforce and industry leaders. In this

production of a feature length film. And

the global market or for a share of local

issue, we’re excited to announce Farm

while Northeast farms, forest product and

customers’ food or landscaping dollars.

Credit East’s 32 scholarship winners — all

fishing businesses may not have as large of a

Northeast land grants recognize these

planning to return to the industry, whether

supporting cast as a Hollywood blockbuster,

challenges and have a wide range of

in production agriculture itself or in a

it takes a team to produce the high quality

research underway to overcome them —

related support field, such as research or

food and fiber that consumers rely upon

from new developments in precision and

ag business.

and enjoy. In this column, I challenge you to

digital agriculture to creating new plant

think more broadly about the composition

varieties and improving animal nutrition.

of your business’s team.

In addition to supporting the efforts of Northeast land grants and the industry’s future leaders, I’m also proud of the support

Many Farm Credit East customers employ a diverse team to run their operations, from immediate and extended family members to key employees in a variety of roles and functions. That team often includes external partners, such as buyers, vendors and service providers.

Farm Credit East consultants, credit and financial services staff are also an important part of many customers’ financial team.

...another important part of Northeast agriculture’s foundation are the region’s academic institutions.

the Farm Credit East team provides to agricultural and community organizations throughout the Northeast. Many of these organizations carry out important missions, including youth leadership development and education, promotion of the region’s agricultural industries with the non-farm public, and helping those in need in our communities. Later in this issue, we highlight some of the activities and organizations Farm Credit East

Though they may not come to mind

Universities are also studying issues

employees support both financially and

immediately, another important part of

with impacts beyond productivity, including

Northeast agriculture’s foundation are

environmental management, food safety

the region’s academic institutions. In this

and food processing. In all of these areas,

summer’s issue, Farm Credit East puts a

the region’s academic institutions play

in some Northeast ag industries, Farm

spotlight on the land-grant universities

an important role in maintaining the

Credit East will continue to do what we

and other agricultural colleges, the impact

competitiveness of Northeast producers

can to provide support for the institutions

their research has on the industry, and how

and the regional food industry. With state

and organizations that are part of the team

they deliver information to help Northeast

and federal budgets under pressure, it’s

that makes Northeast agriculture, forest

businesses improve their operations.

important to let policymakers know that

products and commercial fishing

funding for these programs is a priority

so successful.

with their involvement.

As we navigate challenging times

for our industry.

SUMMER 2018

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P R E PA R I N G

FUTURE

OF

A

During a time of tremendous growth and industrialization in our nation, the Morrill Act estab-

lished the land-grant system to educate a broader population in the agricultural and technical skills that directly impacted their daily lives.

Fast forward 150 years. This guiding principle still holds true, but society has evolved significantly. Agriculture has had to adapt to meet the needs and demands of a changing world, and with it, the focus of land-grant universities has also shifted.

Today, land grants are charged with much more than educating students on the “mechanic arts” and application of agricultural practices.

Especially here in the Northeast, with dense populations and close proximity to urban centers, the region’s producers face very different challenges from other parts of the country. The land-grant system plays a key role in meeting the needs and solving for the challenges of the Northeast’s unique marketplace.

“In order to remain relevant, you need to be adaptive, and that means you need to understand stakeholder needs,” said Brian Schilling, Director of Rutgers Cooperative Extension.

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FINANCIAL PARTNER

“

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, that there be granted ... an amount of public land, to be apportioned to each State a quantity equal to thirty thousand acres … and

”

maintenance of at least one college where the leading object shall be … to teach such branches of learning as are related to agriculture and the mechanic arts.

-Excerpt from the Morrill Act, signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln, July 2, 1862

FOR THE

GRICULTURE “The nature of producers’ needs is evolving

lion in university-based research is

independent, non-biased and careful testing

and the manner in which land grants

conducted annually, according to the

of the innovation occurs. Finally, the

meet those needs has changed. We have

Association of Public and Land-Grant

innovation — whether it’s a new plant

to be responsive.”

Universities. Two of the oldest land-grant

variety or a sophisticated farm app —

institutions are located right in Farm Credit

is commercialized.”

Another shift in land-grant focus is evidenced by the intersection between agriculture, human health and nutrition, and environmental science. Today’s producers need crops that not only have

East’s territory — New Jersey’s Rutgers University, which was designated as a land grant in 1864 and New York’s Cornell University, founded in 1865.

This process of research, development and verification affirms the importance of a land-grant institution in every state. With local proximity, they understand the

better yields or higher drought or disease

Farm Credit East recently talked with

region’s needs and challenges and can work

tolerance, but they also need product

representatives from both of these North-

toward solutions appropriate to that state.

offerings and practices to meet evolving

east land-grant universities, as well as the

Here’s a glimpse into what the land grants

consumer nutritional demands, efficiently

University of Connecticut, to learn more

we spoke with are currently focused on.

and feasibly, in order to remain viable in

about their research priorities to address

a competitive marketplace.

Northeast producers’ challenges and how

AGRICULTURE

they’re working to prepare the industry

Development of new plant varieties for

for the future.

better yields and qualities, such as drought

KEY PRIORITIES

and moisture tolerance or disease and pest

The land-grant system plays a critical role in keeping an eye out for the challenges producers face today, as well as future needs. In today’s society, this research and outreach is more important than ever.

“The land grant role is three-fold when it comes to ag-tech innovation,” explained

There are land-grant universities in all 50

Julie Suarez, Associate Dean for Govern-

states. Taken together with other public

mental & Community Relations at Cornell

universities, 6.1 million undergraduate and

University. “First, faculty utilize basic

graduate students are enrolled, 1.3 million

research and development strategies to

faculty and staff are employed and $44.9 bil-

innovate to solve a farmer problem. Then

resistance, has always been a land-grant focus, but of increasing importance are ways to improve nutritional quality or environmental impact, or even introduce new products. Key in the highly-competitive marketplace in which Northeast producers operate, is to find ways to capitalize on the market opportunities.

SUMMER 2018

5

The University of Connecticut (UConn) is completing turfgrass research to improve soil health. Scientists are researching the best species and management practices of cool-season turf to capture extra carbon dioxide through its leaves that can then be transmitted to the soil through the roots to improve soil health and bacteria. This research could greatly enhance the usage and environmental impact of this traditionally ornamental crop.

UConn is also deep into salmonella research, specifically as it relates to poultry and egg products. Nationally, salmonella is one of the most common food-borne pathogens, and with more than 4,000 small poultry producers throughout New England, it is a major food safety hazard that is difficult to control and detect because it does not cause any symptoms in the chicken itself. Additionally, with concern over antibiotic residues, UConn is looking into other approaches to control salmonella in poultry products using phytochemicals, or natural plant extracts, which have anti-microbial properties to reduce salmonella.

In addition to production techniques and practices, land grants are in tune with potential threats to the industry. For example, Rutgers is paying close attention to the spotted lantern fly that’s appeared in eastern Pennsylvania and a new exotic tick species known to swarm on livestock that can impact the health and productivity of the animal.

They’re working to identify and understand Given the importance of the dairy industry

Similarly, Rutgers University recently released

in New York State, Cornell University has

new basil varieties and more flavorful straw-

a number of projects related to both dairy

berry varieties. The University continues to

Another growing focus, especially here in

production and processing and food safety.

have a large nursery breeding program as

the Northeast with its consumer-driven

Recent projects range from stem cell

well as one of the largest turf-breeding

economy, are the risks associated with direct

research to fight mastitis in dairy cows, to

programs in the world. With New Jersey’s

marketing and agritourism business models.

a partnership with IBM that utilizes data

long coastline, Rutgers also carries out shell-

Consumers’ interest in visiting local farms

analytics to keep the global milk supply safe.

fish breeding for yield and disease resistance.

and understanding their food source is a

Cornell’s research is also focused on

Additionally, Rutgers is working on hazelnut

emerging industries, including commer-

breeding. Currently, hazelnuts cannot be

cialization of malt barley varieties so that

grown east of the Mississippi River, but it’s

Rutgers Extension provides producers guid-

growers can tap into the market potential of

a desirable crop that requires few inputs, so

ance on how to ensure the safety of visitors

the craft beverage industry. In recent years,

it has potential for great industry impact. In

and how to respond to an accident

the University has developed two new alfalfa

high demand for confectionary use, a well-

or an adverse event. “You’ll never eliminate

varieties and continues to focus on new

adapted variety for New Jersey could launch

legal liability, but you can help manage it,”

apple and grape varieties.

a new specialty crop on the east coast.

said Brian.

the risks to help mitigate potential effects.

tremendous opportunity, but it also brings

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new risk and liability issues.

ESTABLISHING PRIORITIES

Food safety is also a focus area. With increas-

Cornell is focused on developing new tools for

ing regulations coming down the pike, land

processors to market to consumers and sell

Land-grant priorities are established in a

grants are doing everything they can to help

more products. For example, a new fermented

number of ways. First and foremost is

producers modify their practices and ensure

dairy beverage is in the works to appeal to

from stakeholder feedback — stakeholders

their operations are in compliance.

the millennial generation, and Concord grape

include producers, trade organizations, Farm

product initiatives are also underway.

Bureaus, State Departments of Agriculture,

With concerns in today’s society about access

USDA and other industry groups.

to healthy, fresh food, this has also become

The biggest challenge in setting research

an increasing focus of land-grant research.

priorities is balancing needs amidst limited

Rutgers is researching ways for people to eat

resources. “We need to be in a position

more proactively or in a preventative manner

where we are capable of understanding

against certain illnesses and diseases.

our stakeholders’ needs and then employ

Similarly, UConn is studying antioxidants and

our expertise and resources to meet those

how they can be used as a dietary ingredient

needs,” said Brian. “We listen and understand

to prevent chronic diseases like cancer and

the problem and then try to respond with

cardiovascular disease. Cornell is working to

scientifically-credible information, insight,

develop healthy eating habits from a young

new technology, new practices or whatever

age by exploring ways to make vegetables

the needs are for businesses or an individual

more appealing to children.

or the community.”

IMPACT: Whether new plant varieties or mitigating risks, the end goal is the same: Improve farmers’ economic stability.

HUMAN HEALTH AND NUTRITION “Food science is an aspect that farmers don’t always think about as a land grant responsibility, but it’s fundamental to our land grant mission and makes a tremendous difference in farm profitability,” explained Julie.

Dairy and concord grapes are two industries currently under financial stress. People’s preferences are shifting away from fluid milk and sweetened grape juice, so both industries have similar oversupply conditions. How do we make these products more desirable?

FARM CREDIT FELLOWS

IMPACT: Research and develop new tools for producers and processors to market to consumers and ultimately sell more products.

INFORMATION DISSEMINATION A key component of the land-grant system is the extension function, so integrating research and extension is vital. University and extension faculty are closely aligned, with information transferred from university faculty to extension faculty, who then arrange conferences, workshops and live demonstrations, or develop print materials or other resources to transfer the research to producers for application.

Farm Credit East collaborates with Cornell University, University of Connecticut, University of Maine, University of New Hampshire and University of Vermont to offer the Farm Credit Fellows program, a hands-on opportunity for college students to learn about the lending process.

While the program at each university is unique, generally the students learn about the lending process in a classroom setting, complete a one-week internship at a Farm Credit East office to learn about ag-finance career opportunities and get out into the field to complete a real-world case study.

The skills acquired through the program are relevant for students entering an ag-related business field, as well as for those returning to the farm after graduation with plans to become future farm business owners.

Additionally, Northeast Farm Credit institutions played a major role in endowing the W.I. Myers Professorship of Agricultural Finance at Cornell University to support applied, practical efforts in research, teaching and extension that would be of direct value to the agricultural community of the Northeast and the United States.

SUMMER 2018

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NORTHEAST LAND GRANT NETWORK

Land Grant Universities University of Connecticut – Storrs, CT University of Maine – Orono, Maine University of Massachusetts – Amherst, MA University of New Hampshire – Durham, NH Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey – New Brunswick, NJ Cornell University – Ithaca, NY University of Rhode Island – Kingston, RI University of Vermont – Burlington, VT

Extension Field Offices

INTO THE FUTURE

“Extension is key to making the land-grant

owners,” said Julie. “We want to help the

system work,” explained Julie. “They’re out

next generation learn how to creatively think

there working with producers and serve as

to solve a problem or come up with an inno-

modern-day agriculture, the land-grant

the indicator of today’s problems that faculty

vative idea to address a current need.”

system continues to be essential to Northeast

“We have an eye toward today and an eye

agriculture’s infrastructure.

toward tomorrow,” said Brian. “We are

“Our main goal is to understand the current

Students play a critical role in research at

committed to making sure the next genera-

and future needs of the industry and actually

Northeast land-grant universities — ranging

tion of farmers can actually come into the

work through research and outreach to

from undergraduate level through to gradu-

industry and succeed.”

help farmers make adaptations for whatever

ate and post-doctorate. For undergraduate

In addition to land grants, there are a number

pressures or opportunities that we’re seeing,”

students, this early research experience is

of higher-education institutions across the

said Brian.

a great opportunity to gain experience and

Northeast with ag-focused curriculums,

develop their skill sets and areas of interests.

That mantra resonates throughout the land-

ranging from general agriculture to more

grant system. “Conducting purpose-driven

“A lot of what we do is not just research to

specific studies in plant, animal, horticultural

science is really what motivates our faculty,”

solve farmers’ immediate problems, but also

or soil sciences, that are also performing

said Julie. “We’re looking to develop the next

to help educate and develop the next genera-

applied research and working to train

generation and provide the research and

tions of farmers, scientists and agribusiness

agriculture’s next generation.

extension that actually makes a difference in

need to be thinking ahead to solve.”

FUTURE WORKFORCE

An important piece of the foundation of

people’s lives.”

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FINANCIAL PARTNER

HERE’S A FEW RECENTLY-RELEASED VIDEOS FEATURING OUR EXPERIENCED FINANCIAL SERVICES STAFF

Have you checked out Farm Credit East’s videos lately?

Having the right financial management tools in place is critical for any business to optimize profitability and ensure long-term success. As a specialized provider of financial services, Farm Credit East ensures your financial needs – from record-keeping and appraisals to payroll and tax preparation – will be taken care of, letting you focus on running your business!

RECORD-KEEPING

TAX SERVICES

Financial Record-Keeping to Strengthen Your Business

Ag-Specific Tax Planning and Preparation

In this video, Ashley LaCourse, Farm Credit East accounting specialist, expressed the importance of a strong recordkeeping strategy. Farm Credit East accounting professionals are trained in ag-related rules and regulations. They work with customers on-farm or from a Farm Credit East branch office to provide monthly, quarterly or annual reports to help strategize and plan for the future.

Joe Baldwin, Farm Credit East financial services leader, discusses the intricacies of agricultural taxation, and how they’re ever-changing. “Farmers can feel confident they are getting a tax return that is really accurate,” said Joe. Even more, our experts go above and beyond to make sure any possible deductions or available credit is captured.

APPRAISALS

PAYROLL

Expert Appraisals for Agricultural and Rural Assets

Payroll Services to Help Strengthen Your Business

“Residential or commercial appraisers don’t always understand the differences in land types and soil qualities, or the specialized buildings specific to agriculture,” explained Rebecca Stone, Farm Credit East accredited rural appraiser. “Farm Credit East appraisers specialize in agriculture, so we have the required knowledge and expertise needed to appraise these types of properties.” In this video, Rebecca explains the specialized services Farm Credit East offers to appraise agricultural and rural properties and assets.

Andrew Desiderio, Farm Credit East tax specialist, helps customers take the stress out of paydays with accounting and payroll services. “By having your payroll processed at Farm Credit East, you can ensure it’s processed on time, accurately and efficiently,” Andrew explained. Our payroll specialists are trained and educated in the rules and regulations specifically as they relate to agriculture. Whether your business is small or large, seasonal or year-round, Farm Credit East’s ag-specific payroll services can help you achieve trouble-free payroll periods, eliminate the hassle and technicalities of payroll processing, and ensure your business remains compliant with all federal and state regulations.

Farm Credit East provides these specialized financial services for all types and sizes of farms, including full- or part-time. It is not necessary to have an existing relationship with Farm Credit East to use these services – they are available to anyone involved in Northeast agriculture, commercial fishing or forest products.

CHECK OUT THE VIDEOS MENTIONED ABOVE AT FARMCREDITEAST.COM/VIDEOS SUMMER 2018

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INSIGHTS FROM A DAIRY LEADER

A PEOPL E BUSINESS

With a dairy of more than 4,000 milking cows across three locations, George Mueller and Willow Bend Farm are names familiar to many in upstate New York agriculture. His career has spanned tremendous advancement in agriculture and withstood many industry cycles, but what he notes most is the resounding quality of the people involved in agriculture. This includes the employees who have worked for him that are key to the operation and the many others working in the industry, both farmers and support professionals — “They’re a great breed,” said George.

Growing up 20 miles north of New York City in New Rochelle, NY, George Mueller was far from a farm boy. But his mother, having grown up on a farm in Dutchess County, wanted to expose George to her roots. So, during his teenage years, he worked on her brother Norval Budd’s farm in Shortsville, NY, and he absolutely loved it! This is the same location George farms today.

George says he’s been very fortunate throughout his life and career.

He attended Cornell University and was part of the ag fraternity, which afforded him great industry connections, including the opportunity to gain experience on a fraternity brother’s family farm operation

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FINANCIAL PARTNER

following graduation. After serving two years in Korea (during peace time, so again, very lucky!), George returned home to his uncle’s farm.

Throughout his more than 60-year career, George has experienced and learned a lot. It’s an industry that most definitely comes with challenges, but as George joked, “That’s part of the fun! It’s putting together all of the resources — ­ the people, the fertilizer, the land, the animals, the markets. Sure, sometimes the weather will turn or machinery will break and things won’t go as expected, but that’s all part of the challenge.”

George was hit with some of those challenges pretty early on. He started farming in 1957. That first year he purchased 40 yearling dairy heifers and sold them for twice the purchase price a year later, so he purchased double the heifers the next year. The third year, the dairy heifer market crashed and he could not sell them. George realized this business model wasn’t sustainable, so he and his uncle decided to give milking a try. Together they set up what George called a ‘poor man’s milking parlor’ with nine stanchions connected to a large loafing barn. Luckily, they made a little money and kept making improvements.

Then came the ‘60s. Milk price increased 20 percent, so George invested in the business, expanding the dairy to a double seven milking parlor. From then on, just about every six years, they added on another 200 free stalls.

They eventually put 400 cows through that milking parlor, milking around the clock. In 1988, the dairy made the big move to a double 24 milking parlor, and continued to grow.

By 2003, the Willow Bend facility was getting pretty crowded with 1,200 cows and 1,500 calves and heifers. It was time to expand. Willow Bend was fortunate to merge with a nearby dairy farmer and build a brand new facility with a double 25 parlor. Today, this operation milks 2,000 cows.

Most recently, Willow Bend purchased another dairy 20 miles west. This facility currently milks about 900 cows in a double 14 parlor. It is in need of some upgrades, but with the current low milk price, expansion plans are on hold … just another challenge to work through!

George first got started with Farm Credit (Production Credit at the time) in 1976 when it came time to build a free stall barn. His local bank wanted nothing to do with building a barn. “I’ve been with Farm Credit from then on and it’s been a wonderful relationship,” said George. He later served on the board of Farm Credit of Western New York.

“We also use a number of Farm Credit East’s services and I can’t say enough about them,” George continued. “One of the best things about Farm Credit is the quality of people. I’ve worked with quite a few different employees over the years, but I have never run into poor quality. They’ve all been excellent.”

“New York agriculture is wonderful to be a part of and watch it prosper.”

Speaking of people, George would be remiss not to mention his son John Mueller, the farm’s current manager. “He didn’t plan to be a farmer,” explained George. “He spent three years with Agway learning a lot about managing people. Then an opportunity opened at the farm, so he came home to learn the trade and has really blossomed. He is key to our operation today.” John’s wife, Sally, also does the operation’s payroll.

As George reflects on his career and the future of the industry, he expresses nothing but optimism. “New York agriculture is wonderful to be a part of and watch it prosper,” said George. “We have excellent soils, close proximity to people and excellent markets — Boston, New York City, Montreal — and for the most part, really good weather. This is a wonderful place to be living and farming. We are blessed.”

His advice to those entering the industry? “Don’t let it scare you. Jump in with both feet, find your niche and learn everything you can,” said George. “And getting along with people is key.”

SUMMER 2018

11

Committed to Northeast Rural Communities Farm Credit East employees are committed to assisting our customers with the credit and financial services their businesses need — and that commitment extends beyond the farms, docks and forests. Our employees live in the same communities we serve, and they’re committed to helping those communities thrive. In some cases, this is providing financial support to community support organizations, and at other times staff get involved, raising funds for cancer research, volunteering at a local food bank, community clean-up or building a float for the local dairy parade. Here is just a sampling of Farm Credit East staff helping out in the local community.

Auburn Gets Plan ting This spring, Farm Cr

edit East’s Auburn, Maine, off ice volun teered at lp plant, transplant and move flowers an in preparation for the d seedli ngs far m’s opening day.

Joh n F. Mu rphy Homes (JFM) purchased the well-k nown W hiting Farm in 2014 and reopene spring of 2015 as a d it in the nonprofit organizati on that provides ser and children with int vices to adults ellectual and develop mental disabilities. a pleasure for the Au It has been burn team to develop a relationship with fol ks over the past the JFM few months, and the y look for ward to ret the su mmer to help ur ning in with fal l planti ngs!

W hiting Farm to he

Batavia Helps Educate The Public au hosts Each June, the Genesee County Farm Bure ren to ever yday Kinderfar min’, an event to expose child parlor to learn farm duties. Students tour the milk ing into the milk head about milk ing the cows and then from the farm house to learn about how the milk goes stall barn to the grocery store. They also tour a free and have to learn about cow com fort and feeding local dairy the with the opportunity to make butter Farm Credit princesses. As in past years, staff from help out as tour East’s Batavia, NY, office were happy to to talk with guides, traff ic control, and were available students about agriculture.

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Cortland Fuels Up With Milk Farm Credit East’s Cor tland, NY, offic e participated in the Cor tland Cou nty Dair y Parade in early June. This year’s them e was “Fuel up with Milk” — staying active and healthy can be accomplished by drin king milk. Staff were excited to win Best Busi ness Float for 2018.

Enfield Pitches In At Regional Food Bank In April, staff from Farm Credit East’s Enfield, Conn., office headed to Foodshare, the Greater Hartford area’s regional food bank, to sort through 5600lbs of bread, Bok Choy and yams. Foodshare works to maximize access to nutritious food and other resources that support food security. Produce seconds and grocery products past the sell-by date are donated to FoodShare from local grocery stores. The Enfield team was tasked with sorting through the products and repackaging for distribution.

Middletown Raises $5,800 For Cancer Research For the eighth year, Farm Credit East’s Middletown, NY, office participated in the Pine Bush, NY, Relay for Life to support the Amer ican Cancer Society.

In total, friends, family and customers of the Middletown office generously contr ibuted more than $5,80 0 toward cancer research and awareness — ranki ng in the top 10 of all fundraising teams! Overall, this year’s event raised $157,617, exceeding their goal of $150,000!

Potsdam Shows Their Support Of The “Cow-Munity” To kick off June Dairy Month, the St. Lawrence County dairy princesses host an annual dairy princess parade. Farm Credit East’s Potsdam, NY, office is excited to participate in this event each year. In line with the theme for this year’s parade, “cow-munity,” Potsdam staff created a float showcasing the many activities staff is involved in. Their goal was to let the community know that Farm Credit East staff are so much more than just their tax preparer, appraiser or loan officer, but are also actively involved in the “cow-munity.” They were excited to win second place in the commercial division for the most creative and colorful float.

SUMMER 2018

13

WASHINGTON Update Robert A . Smith Executive Vice President

LOOKING BACK AND FORGING AHEAD 40 YEARS IN PUBLIC POLICY For 20 years, I had the pleasure of writing this column for Financial Partner. As my Farm Credit East responsibilities shifted, my colleague Tom Cosgrove took over the column three years ago. Tom has done a great job, but as I close out my Farm Credit career, I have the honor of writing one last Washington Update.

Throughout my 40 plus year career,

commercial fishing and forest

working for the New York Farm

products, someone else with

require a better understanding of

Bureau, the New York Department

different motives and beliefs will.

modern-day agriculture among

of Agriculture and Markets, CoBank and Farm Credit East, I have had the opportunity to advocate for farmers and rural businesses. It has been the opportunity of a lifetime!

In 2005, I wrote a column titled, Farmers Beware: Congress comes back in Session. While it may (or may not) have been written in jest, the reality is that telling agriculture’s story in the halls of Congress or to state governments is a constant challenge. But, if producers and their organizations don’t tell the great (and very real) story of American agriculture,

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FINANCIAL PARTNER

As I think about success or failure with legislative efforts, a number of things come to mind:

“

• Sound agricultural policies

public policy makers. Participation in the public policy process and engagement with the media by those directly involved is the best way

… if producers and their organizations don’t tell the great (and very real) story of American agriculture, commercial fishing & forest products, someone else with different motives and beliefs will.

to build an understanding of the

the country. This issue and others

made sense — those that feed the

impact, good or bad, of proposed

are ripe for compromise.

world working together with those

legislation and regulations.

• Public policy makers need

• The ability for Northeast

dedicated to ending hunger.

farm businesses to be competitive

While there are many challenging

to understand that farmers are

is essential to long-term success.

public policy issues, I feel good

business people and face real

State laws and regulations that

about the future of Northeast

business challenges. Over the past

place Northeast farmers, forest

agriculture. There is an interesting

40 years, there has been a constant

products businesses and commercial

balance today between farm

growth of new regulations. In

fishermen at a competitive

businesses competing globally,

some cases they originate with a

disadvantage undermine the long-

and entrepreneurs, many who are

law passed by Congress or a state

term ability to grow agriculture and

just getting started, working

legislature to address a real or

create economic activity and jobs

directly with consumers in the local

perceived problem. In other cases,

in the Northeast.

food space. It is clear that farming,

they reflect the views of the federal or state executive branch. Taken alone, each regulation may (or may not) be manageable for a business to address, but with the proliferation of regulations covering nearly every facet of a business’s operations, business owners get overburdened with how to comply and the cost of doing so.

• In 2012 and again in 2015,

Farm Credit East produced a report on the economic impact of agriculture (Northeast Agriculture, the Overlooked Economic Engine).

These reports were significant accomplishments for Farm Credit East, adding to public discourse as to why it is important to have a

“

Northeast states.

• Compromise is important

fishing will remain strong,

It is true — the people involved in agriculture, forest products & commercial fishing are a vital par t of our economy & way of life — they stand out as the best in our societ y.

strong agriculture industry in the

forest products and commercial

”

• I will always be impressed

successful businesses throughout the Northeast.

Special thank you for her outstanding editing assistance for this and many previous columns to Kristie (Schmitt) Matuszewski, Farm Credit East Director of Marketing Communications (and previously to Karen Murphy).

One final note. I have been fortunate to work with so many outstanding farmers, industry leaders and Farm Credit colleagues that I really can’t begin to thank everyone. It is true — the people involved in agriculture, forest products and commercial fishing are a vital part of our economy and way of life — they stand out as the best in our society. It is the

in public policy and agriculture

by the generosity of the farm

efforts of farmers, commercial

has been hurt from the lack of

community. Of special note are

fishermen and forest products

compromise. For example, the

the many programs the farm

producers that enable all of us

failure of public policy makers,

community supports to address

to lead the lives we do.

from both parties, to agree on

hunger. Unfortunately, the historical

sound, balanced immigration

alliances of farm groups and

reforms and guest worker provisions

hunger/nutrition groups seems to

reflects their putting partisan

be eroding in recent Farm Bills.

viewpoints over what is good for

I always thought this alliance

SUMMER 2018

15

Steven Christianson, owner of Christianson Farm, LLC, in Readfield, Maine, along with his wife, Caroline, and son, Easton, and their FarmStart advisor Kathryn Bisson, from Farm Credit East’s Auburn, Maine, office.

FARMSTART PROGRAM SUPPORTS STARTUP FARM,

FISHING & FOREST PRODUCTS BUSINESSES Farm Credit’s FarmStart is a unique program that invests working capital of up to $75,000 in Northeast agricultural, fishing and forest products ventures showing promise of success.

Since the first investment approved in August 2006, FarmStart has invested more than $11.3 million with over 250 agricultural and fishing entrepreneurs throughout the Northeast. We recently interviewed a recipient of an investment, Steven Christianson, owner of Christianson Farms, LLC in Readfield, Maine.

“My FarmStart advisor understands my goals and how my operation works. It’s been a very good relationship.”

His FarmStart advisor, Kathryn Bisson, explained, “As a FarmStart advisor, I have a greater advisory role with FarmStart customers when compared with traditional lending relationships. I am able to assist in the preparation of business plans, the tracking and follow up of management goals and objectives, while also helping to connect customers with other Farm Credit East resources.”

“It is rewarding to be able to work with beginning farmers through the early stages of their business, and see how their hard work pays off over the next few years,” Kathryn continued.

“The FarmStart program is unique in its focus working with young

Steven was raised on a local dairy farm and has always had an interest

and beginning entrepreneurs to establish successful businesses,”

in pursuing a career in agriculture. He purchased his first two cows in

said Matt Senter, Farm Credit East senior vice president based in the

2009, and officially began his own farm business about five years ago.

Auburn, Maine office. “The combination of working capital and the

Christianson Farms is a diversified business growing a mix of

valuable insight provided by FarmStart advisors like Kathryn provides

vegetables for its farm stand, while also raising beef and hogs that are

startup businesses with much improved odds of long-term success. In

sold retail at the farm stand and direct to local customers. Today, the

a business like Steven’s, his strong farm management and marketing

farm has more than 60 animals and harvests about 300 acres of corn,

skills are complemented by the expertise of FarmStart staff and the

hay and vegetable crops.

flexibility of repayment terms.”

Steven turned to FarmStart after being denied commercial financing

For more information on FarmStart please visit

because he only had two years of crop and tax records. “Then I learned

FarmCreditEast.com/FarmStart.

about FarmStart and they were willing to work with me,” he said.

16

FINANCIAL PARTNER

32 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS M E E T

O U R

E ac h E arned $1, 50 0 Towar d Higher E duc at ion Farm Credit East congratulates our 32 scholarship winners, all aspiring to make a difference in their agricultural communities. This year students earned a collective $49,500 in scholarships to help them on their way to becoming the Northeast’s future leaders.

CONNECTICUT

Our scholarship supports students with a diversity of agricultural career aspirations and farm backgrounds from across our seven-state territory. Congratulations to these deserving students and best wishes for a successful educational experience.

MAINE

E LI ZAB ET H ANTO N E L L I

KATE LYN N CAYE R

Danielson, Conn.

Fairfield, Maine

GORDON COLLEGE MAJOR: BIOLOGY CAREER PATH: PLANT GENETICIST

UNIVERSITY OF MAINE MAJOR: ANIMAL AND VETERINARY SCIENCES CAREER PATH: LARGE ANIMAL VETERINARIAN

Elizabeth is passionate about studying the intersection of agriculture, botany and nutrition. She hopes to improve food-source plants as a plant geneticist.

Katelynn always knew she was interested in large animal medicine.

She plans to work at a large animal practice before starting a one-stop clinic of her own.

M E GAN DAV E N P O RT

E M I LY L AG E R S TR O M

Litchfield, Conn.

Presque Isle, Maine

UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT MAJOR: ANIMAL SCIENCE AND AG EDUCATION CAREER PATH: AGRICULTURAL TEACHER

UNIVERSITY OF MAINE MAJOR: BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION & FINANCIAL ECONOMICS CAREER PATH: AGRIBUSINESS FINANCE

Megan hopes to inspire the next generation of agriculturalists by sharing her passion for agriculture through teaching.

DAN I E L M U N CH East Lyme, Conn.

UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT MAJOR: LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT AND POLICY/ AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE ECONOMICS CAREER PATH: AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS & POLICY

Daniel hopes to apply his education in animal science, agricultural policy and agribusiness to a career in the ag industry.

MA R I S SA NACL E R I O

Growing up on a potato farm, Emily learned firsthand the reward of working for a farm business. She hopes a career in agribusiness will lead her to start her own ag business.

SAD E E M E H U R E N Searsmont, Maine UNIVERSITY OF MAINE MAJOR: ANIMAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: 4-H EXTENSION AGENT

Sadee knows that investing in the youth of agriculture is vital for the industry’s future success. She plans to provide students with the same opportunity she received through 4-H.

New Haven, Conn.

UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT MAJOR: ENVIRONMENTAL AND URBAN STUDIES CAREER PATH: SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

Marissa plans to work as an urban planner to upgrade buildings, improve water resource management and other green renovations to be environmentally friendly.

MASSACHUSETTS

RAC H E L B L AS KO Northborough, Mass.

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST MAJOR: ANIMAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: LARGE ANIMAL VETERINARIAN

Via research, teaching and her coursework, Rachel plans to build a well-rounded skillset that will enable a successful career as a large animal veterinarian.

SUMMER 2018

17

R AC H E L L AWLO R

NE W YORK

Weymouth, Mass.

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST MAJOR: HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: PUBLIC HORTICULTURE MANAGEMENT

Rachel hopes to fuel her passion for the care and management of plants through research and internship experiences that will lead her to design and manage public floriculture.

NATA S H IA SAWAB I

E LLI E AI N S LI E Little Falls, NY CORNELL UNIVERSITY MAJOR: ANIMAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE

With an aspiration to promote agricultural innovation and technology, Ellie hopes to have an agricultural career abroad.

Ware, Mass.

N I C H O L AS AM O D I O

HOLYOKE COMMUNITY COLLEGE MAJOR: SUSTAINABLE STUDIES CAREER PATH: FARM MANAGER/OWNER

White Plains, NY

Using the skills she’s learned in bio-genetics and soil management, Natashia hopes to own a farm and market local produce to the community.

J AC OB T U L LY Dunstable, Mass.

SUNY COBLESKILL MAJOR: DAIRY PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT CAREER PATH: FARM MANAGER/OWNER

Farming is Jacob’s passion and he could never imagine doing anything else. He hopes his education will give him the tools to adapt to agriculture’s ever-changing climate.

NEW JERSEY

A NTH O NY M AT R O Hammonton, NJ PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY MAJOR: AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS CAREER PATH: FRUIT & VEGETABLE FARM MANAGER/OWNER

Anthony hopes his degree will develop his business management skills to support and grow his family’s farm.

B R I TTANY S M IT H Oxford, NJ RUTGERS UNIVERSITY MAJOR: ANIMAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: VETERINARY MEDICINE

Growing up on her family’s dairy farm, Brittany spent time caring for animals, which inspired her goal to own her own veterinary practice.

J A M I E S PE CCA Bordentown, NJ DELAWARE VALLEY UNIVERSITY MAJOR: AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION CAREER PATH: AGRICULTURAL EDUCATOR

Jamie credits her ag educators and FFA advisors for inspiring her ambition to connect students directly to agriculture.

UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND MAJOR: BUSINESS CAREER PATH: FARM MANAGER/OWNER

Nicholas plans to return to his family’s landscaping company to expand the business and improve efficiency.

AL L I S O N AU S TI N Lyndonville, NY SUNY COBLESKILL MAJOR: AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS CAREER PATH: AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION

Allison enjoys teaching others about her “unique” agricultural upbringing, and as such plans to pursue a career as a high school agricultural educator.

AM AN DA B O N D Adams, NY CORNELL UNIVERSITY MAJOR: AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES CAREER PATH: AGRICULTURAL TEACHER

Amanda hopes to combine her two passions, agriculture and education, as she works toward a career as an agricultural educator.

KATH RYN B O S L E Y Malone, NY SUNY COBLESKILL MAJOR: ANIMAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: LARGE ANIMAL VETERINARIAN

Kathryn’s interest in dairy cattle, herd health and research has inspired her career path. She also plans to be a farm partner and manager.

PATR I C K C O O M B E Grahamsville, NY DELAWARE VALLEY UNIVERSITY MAJOR: AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS CAREER PATH: FARM MANAGER/OWNER

Patrick aims to return home to his family’s livestock operation to grow, operate and manage their sustainable beef farm.

J USTI N D E PU E Homer, NY CORNELL UNIVERSITY MAJOR: ANIMAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: DAIRY FARM MANAGER/OWNER

Ever since raising his own beef cows, Justin knew he was destined for a career in agriculture. His goal is to work as a herd manager and eventually partner in a dairy.

18

FINANCIAL PARTNER

J AI M E E F R E D E R I CK

C L AI R E N O R M AN

Clifton Springs, NY

Pine Plains, NY

CORNELL UNIVERSITY MAJOR: ANIMAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: FARM MANAGER/OWNER

CORNELL UNIVERSITY MAJOR: AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: AGRICULTURAL TEACHER

Recognizing the interest in local agriculture, Jamiee’s goal is to diversify her family’s dairy operation to provide local products and educational opportunities.

FFA solidified Claire’s desire to become a teacher. She hopes to have a positive impact on future generations of ag leaders.

L AU R E N S C H WAB

A LLE N G RAU L I CH

Delevan, NY

Cobleskill, NY SUNY COBLESKILL MAJOR: DAIRY MANAGEMENT CAREER PATH: DAIRY FARM MANAGER/OWNER

A fourth-generation dairy farmer, Allen hopes to learn as much as he can in dairy nutrition, technology and management, before returning home to his family’s operation.

PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY MAJOR: AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT CAREER PATH: FARM MANAGER/OWNER

Born and raised on a third-generation dairy farm, Lauren hopes to use her education in agribusiness management to grow her family’s businesses.

J E S S I CA S K E L L I E

J A N E T HAN E HAN

Newark, NY

Saratoga Springs, NY

CORNELL UNIVERSITY MAJOR: ANIMAL SCIENCE CAREER PATH: AGRIBUSINESS RESEARCH & CONSULTING

MORRISVILLE STATE COLLEGE MAJOR: AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CAREER PATH: AGRICULTURAL RETAIL AND MARKETING

Janet grew up with a passion for dairy cattle. She plans a career in marketing agricultural products or services to directly benefit farmers.

With a drive to use advanced agricultural practices and improve farm efficiency, Jessica is eager to start a career as a research project consultant focused on commercial dairy cattle.

DA M IAN H I L L

C L ARA S TI LW E L L

Harpersfield, NY

Albion, NY

CORNELL UNIVERSITY MAJOR: ENTREPRENEURSHIP CAREER PATH: MAPLE BUSINESS MANAGER

After graduation, Damian hopes to return home to help expand his family’s maple operation with the goal of becoming owner and manager.

CORNELL UNIVERSITY MAJOR: COMMUNICATIONS CAREER PATH: AGRIBUSINESS

Clara hopes her career will include advocating the importance of agriculture to youth and working in the agricultural industry.

S TE P H E N VAI AN O

C H R I ST I NA LO N K EY Ithaca, NY

Wantagh, NY

CORNELL UNIVERSITY MAJOR: VETERINARY MEDICINE CAREER PATH: FOOD ANIMAL VETERINARIAN

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST MAJOR: SUSTAINABLE HORTICULTURE/ SUSTAINABLE FOOD AND FARMING CAREER PATH: FARM MANAGER/OWNER

Christina’s goal is to work with dairy farms to improve nutrition, genetics and reproductive technology management.

Stephen hopes to achieve his entrepreneurial dream of owning his own business to produce sustainable food and products in his local area.

FARM CREDIT EAST “CHAIR SCHOLARSHIP” RECIPIENT Farm Credit East provided an additional $1,500 scholarship upon a second tier, in-depth review of the applications.

The Chair Scholarship is in addition to the $1,500 Farm Credit East scholarship.

T H O M AS CO E N E Ontario, NY SUNY COBLESKILL MAJOR: AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT CAREER PATH: FRUIT FARM MANAGER/OWNER

Through his education, internships and extension involvement, Thomas looks forward to a career as a partner in his family’s fruit operation.

TO BE A CANDIDATE FOR A 2019 SCHOLARSHIP, CONTACT A FARM CREDIT EAST BRANCH OFFICE OR VISIT FARMCREDITEAST.COM A P P L I C AT I O N S W I L L B E A V A I L A B L E I N J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9 SUMMER 2018

19

FINANCIAL PARTNER is for the customers, employees and friends of Farm Credit East. Farm Credit East is a customerowned lending cooperative serving the farm, commercial fishing and forest products businesses in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York and New Jersey. Part of the national Farm Credit System, Farm Credit East is a full-service lender dedicated to the growth and prosperity of agriculture.

Farm Credit East 240 South Road Enfield, CT 06082-4451 Address Service Requested

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 690 Springfield, MA

HOW TO REACH US: Whether you want to praise us, complain, ask our advice or just let us know what’s on your mind, we’d like to hear from you.

WRITE: K ristie Matuszewski, Editor, Farm Credit East, 240 South Road, Enfield, CT 06082-4451 CALL: 860.741.4380 E-MAIL: kristie.matuszewski@farmcrediteast.com Copyright© 2018 by Farm Credit East, ACA. All rights reserved. Farm Credit East is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer.

FINANCIAL PARTNER is printed on recycled paper.

2019 Agricultural Views Calendar Photo Contest Help us fill Farm Credit East’s Agricultural Views 2019 Calendar with fresh imagery that illustrates the best of Northeast farming, horticulture, forestry and commercial fishing. We also look for creative photos that celebrate country life in New England, New York or New Jersey.

Your photo entry may appear in Farm Credit East’s Agricultural Views 2019 Calendar and also earn you a $100 cash prize!

• 14 photos will be selected for a $100 cash prize each.

IN SP IR AT IO N? NE ED CR EATI VE

FA R MC R E DI T E A S T.C

VI SI T

OM/CALENDAR

• Submission deadline: July 31, 2018.

• Winners will be contacted by: October 16, 2018

UPLOAD YOUR BEST SHOTS TO OUR WEBSITE BY JULY 31 FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A $100 CASH PRIZE 20

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