CW 12.26.11

26 DECEMBER 2011 Section One e off Two e 38 Volume Number r9

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Your Weekly Connection to Agriculture

Farm News • Equipment for Sale • Auctions • Classifieds

Making Grass Angels Pagee 2

Knowing soybean stages simplifies communication Page A5

Columnists Lee Mielke

Mielke Market Weekly A12 Paris Reidhead

Crop Comments

A7

Auctions B1 Classifieds B22 Farmer to Farmer A13 Fellowship of Christian Farmers B29

When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. ~ Matthew 2:10-11

Making grass angels

by Troy Bishopp CANASTOTA, NY — As the lake effect band of snow hovered 20 miles north, 30 hearty graziers braved a frigid west wind while giving up the morning’s deer hunt and Christmas shopping on a quest to see and discuss winter grazing strategies at Dave and Suzie Taylor’s Thistle Dew Beef Farm.

The cold, surprisingly sunny day devoid of snow cover in an area the locals call “The banana belt of Madison County” was no deterrent for man or beast in being out on the stockpiled pasture. The day was also made a little warmer with New York Beef Farmer Cooperative Inc., Project Manager, Bee Tolman and Chairman Paul O’Mara announcing the group had secured $250,239 as part of Governor Cuomo’s Regional Economic Development Council initiative funding to the Central New York Regional Council to assist in start-up operations of the cooperative in Madison County and launch a meat CSA. “We’re going to be looking for more producers to fill the customer’s local need,” said Paul.

Dave welcomed the

farmers and gave a brief history of their grazing experience: “Four years ago we would have scoffed at the idea of grazing this late into the season because we used to start feeding hay in early October due to overgrazing.

That was until we caught the rotational grazing bug, got a grazing plan and were introduced to the benefits of portable fencing via the conservation district’s beginning grazier fence kit. These tools plus monthly mentoring have revolutionized our land and cattle management,” he concluded.

The 90 acre grass farm with its 46 head of cows and calves has averaged 50 more days of grazing for the last three years since adopting planned grazing and learning to stockpile fields around Aug. 10 which has saved them over $2,500 per year in hay savings.

The grazing group discussed the animal number to acres needed ratio, for making this work.

“People say you can graze around one animal unit (1,000 pounds) to one acre for the season, but to make this extended grazing system work for us

and make hay for winter we shoot for around 2 acres per animal on our soils,” commented Dave.

As the graziers staged around the pasture, Dave and Suzie made feeding cows look like child’s play by reeling up the polywire between the old grazed off paddock and the luscious third cutting standing grass in less than 30 seconds.

“Now that’s what I call a labor savings,” said Suzie.

Questions from the audience of snowbirds ranged from determining the right size paddock, how to plan for stockpiling, what were the contingences for bad weather, pugging the soil concerns, quality of the forage meeting the animal’s needs and health concerns with relation to Johne’s disease from feeding on the ground. Credit their management style of moving daily with not having as many issues as discussed.

“Since we move them every day we notice the little things and make quick adjustments according to what we see with the animal’s condition and how we want our land left for spring. It takes some prac-

Page 2 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Farmers celebrating winter grazing by making snow angels; Left to Right Judy Cary, Harmon Hoff, Garth Brown, Edmond Brown.

tice and patience, when the neighbors look at you a little funny sometimes,” said Dave.

So what knowledge did farmers gain from the unorthodox winter grazing?

Jonathon Ling, Farm Manager from J&D Farm commented, “I needed to see this practice in action.

I went home with a formula (250 pounds dry matter/inch/acre) for calculating the feed in my fields, even in the winter!”

“I got some validation that there are no steadfast recipes when farmers bring different scenarios to the table and that you gain wisdom by doing. I also saw how important water placement and backfencing is in reducing pasture damage,” said Matt Campbell of Ridgeville Farm.

Karl Palmer from Sugar Daddy Ranch added his own synopsis, “I can appreciate Dave and Suzie’s enthusiasm to share money saving ideas with us. It motivates me to do a better job on my own farm. And having coffee and Christmas cookies on hand didn’t hurt either.”

Dave and Suzie summed up their winter grazing hosting role: “We wanted to show others what’s possible in saving money, growing healthy

Dave and Suzie Taylor pose with their Australian Shepherd Cowdog.

Photos by Troy Bishopp cattle and pastures, feed- Protection Alliance, The ing local markets and re- Upper Susquehanna Coalition and the NYS ducing erosion.”

This gathering of winter Agricultural Environmengrazing knowledge and tal Management Program.

To learn more about Christmas cookies from Troyer’s Country Store planned grazing initiawas supported by the tives and approaches, Madison County Soil and call Madison County SWWater Conservation Dis- CD at 315-824-9849 or trict, The Finger Lakes- visit madcoswcd.com and Lake Ontario Watershed U-S-C.org

Group shot of winter grazing attendees

Mohawk Valley Young Farmer’s meeting ~ more than just a social event

by Elizabeth A. Tomlin Members of the Mohawk Valley Young Farmers group met at the home of dairy farmers Chris and John Nellis in Montgomery County for their Dec. 15 meeting, where Dr. Harold Fisher, DVM, instructed an informative presentation on dairy management, specifically addressing the issue of milk antibiotic residue and testing.

Dr. Fisher, who practices with the Herkimer Veterinary Associates, handed out recently released 2012 Milk and Dairy Beef Drug Residue Prevention manuals to the group. The manuals, which are published by the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), are intended to assist farmers in improving their herd’s health, while minimizing the risk of pharmaceutical traces being

found in food.

“Residue is anything that is detectable in the milk that shouldn’t be there,” Fisher stated, explaining that any type of treatment or antibiotic that leaves any trace of a pharmaceutical that is detected through specific testing qualifies as residue.

Fisher commented that new testing methods have made it easier to detect traces of residue.

“One thing that’s changed,” Fisher reported, “is that our testing equipment is much better.”

Sensitive tests can detect a drug from a treated quarter even when the milk has been highly diluted in a bulk tank by the milk of a multitude of cows.

The Food and Drug Administration

Mohawk Valley A3

Dr. Howard Fisher, DVM, (left rear) explains a residue sensitivity chart used for serum and urine screening in dairy cows to attendees at the Mohawk Valley Young Farmers December meeting. Dairy farmer and Herkimer Veterinarian Associates Practice Manager Chris Nellis (center rear) and David Balbian, Central NY Dairy Management Specialist (far right) added to the discussion.

Photo by Elizabeth A. Tomlin

New York Farm Bureau Foundation News

by Sandie Prokop A County Farm Bureau Board becomes an “Executive Club” member when each member makes a $25 donation. This year we had 67 percent of all County Farm Bureaus participate, which was a slight increase from last year. The funds received above a certain point allowed us to add Ag Master Kiosks. To thank the County Farm Bureau Boards, Dean Norton and Paul Bencal again sponsored a special prize.

And the winner is… Franklin County Farm Bureau!

The next item on the Dec. 12 evening program was the drawing of the winner for the 5th annual Foundation Raffle — which was sponsored by the D.A. Collins Companies, a tremendous partner to all as they help maintain our infrastructure. The winner, Winnie Nelson from Schoharie County chose the cash ($500 or an iPad2) and has pledged half of her winnings to the NYFB Foundation. Richard Ball sold the ticket and was entitled to a $50 farmers’ market certificate, which he has generously donated back to the Foundation.

Our live auction had some last minute changes. When Bill Magee found that a legislative session would keep him in Albany, we were lucky to

have a very capable local auctioneer come to our rescue. Matt Manasse of Mel Manasse & Son, Auctioneers, carried out the live auction. Matt has been a true supporter of NYFB, Broome County Farm Bureau in a BIG way and the Foundation for many years.

Our live auction items included a beautiful hand-made Child’s Chair from Cattaraugus County Farm Bureau; two 2012 season passes for all NYS County and Youth Fairs donated

by The NYS Association of Agricultural Fairs; An Adirondack Chair/Bench from the South Lewis FFA; from Schuyler County Farm Bureau a Collection of 100 Local Items in celebration of Farm Bureau’s 100th Anniversary; An Original Centennial Painting, a oneof-a kind painting commissioned by the Broome County Farm Bureau in honor of Farm Bureau’s 100th anniversary and a radio-controlled John Deere Radio Control Tractor donated by Dean and Melanie Norton for a TRUE GREEN farmer!

The Foundation is grateful for the support that is shown in so many ways for the Foundation’s Tools, Resources and programs. We extend our sincere thanks to all our supporters for their enduring belief in the Foundation’s agricultural education program.

Matt Manasee was a last minute substitution as our Foundation Auctioneer.

Mohawk Valley A2 (FDA) will not accept drug residue in milk or meat. Milk with drug residue will not be used by a milk plant and will contaminate an entire truckload of milk. Farmers responsible for selling contaminated milk are subjected to severe penalties.

Fisher pointed out there are several reasons why antibiotic residue is unacceptable in dairy products and meat.

One reason is that there are a percentage of people who are highly allergic to antibiotics — and even minute doses can be fatal. Continuous low-level intakes of antibiotics from milk and food may result in a buildup of antibiotic-resistance, and antibiotics interfere with growth of starter cultures used in making yogurt and cheese.

However, another very important reason, according to Fisher, is “public perception and consumer confidence in our product. One report of antibiotic laden milk shoots down the good PR of milk as a wholesome product,” Fisher stated. “It’s going to drive the market price of milk down — and cause more regulations. If there’s a perception of drugs in our food supply, they’re going to come down on us.”

Relationships with the beef cattle industry are also negatively affected by antibiotic residue found in dairy beef.

Although statistics show that only about .3 percent of violated residue in contaminated meat going through the U.S. slaughterhouses is from the beef industry, a high percentage of that .3 percent is from dairy.

“Dairy beef is 90 percent of the problem,” Fisher reported. “We need to do a better job.” Fisher advised the young farmers that offenders are now listed on a website.

Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) tests for various drugs and chemicals, and compiles a Residue Violation Information System List, which is posted online and updated weekly.

Fisher stated that in the last local case he was aware of, the farmer was prevented from selling any animals without contacting the FDA for a period of one year.

He pointed out that a well-planned drug use program could avoid drug residues. Charts in the Drug Residue Prevention manual show a variety of screening tests that may be used by farmers to avoid contamination to bulk milk and equipment, and may be used

to screen newly purchased animals.

“When treating one quarter, we all know that all quarters need to be discarded,” he reminded the young farmers group. “Antibiotic treated cows should be milked last, and marking cows and making sure they are identified appropriately; all of these things are pretty straight forward.”

Fisher also reminded the farmers that keeping records are very important, and all people working on the farm should be instructed to keep documented records. People speaking other languages who are employed need to be able to keep records, too.

“If you have a residue and you have no records, FDA is really coming at you with a vengeance,” Fisher said. “If you have records, you have a leg to stand on.”

Fisher pointed out that the manual has sample record keeping pages that could be copied, and said even a simple composition notebook could be used for record keeping. “You have to write everything down, what the cow number was, what you treated her with, the dose, the round of administration, everything.”

David Balbian, Central NY Dairy Management Specialist, who attended the meeting, mentioned that some farmers are having suspicions that the effects of molds or mycotoxins in feed have caused a positive drug residue result in testing. It is noted that pregnant cows and dairy cows are more susceptible to the effects of molds and/or mycotoxins than other cattle.

The National Drug Residue Milk Monitoring Program is insisting that dairy industry responsibilities are more important than ever, and preventing drug residues in milk and cull dairy cows is a priority.

“You need to sit down with your veterinarian and discuss treatment protocols,” advised Fisher. “Preventing drug contamination of milk and meat is the responsibility of every farm.”

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) updated version of the Milk and Dairy Beef Drug Residue Prevention Manual for 2012, containing the residue prevention manual can be found online at www.nationaldairyfarm.com.

Harold E. Fischer, DVM may be reached at 315-866-9999.

For more information on the Mohawk Valley Young Farmers, contact Missy Potter at melissa.potter@ny. nacdnet.net.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 3

Winnie Nelson our 5th annual raffle winner…truly supports the Foundation!

Dean Norton, President NYFB; Judi Whittaker, Broome County; Bob Stallman, President American Farm Bureau pose with picture commissioned by Broome County FB of FB Centennial, purchased by Broome CFB and presented to President Stallman.

Meat Goat Farming For Beginners Designing your herd health program, stress, and the importance of biosecurity

by Judy Van Put The third class of the CCE of Delaware County’s Meat Goat Farming for Beginners course included a presentation by Christine Camaan, DVM, Ruminant Health Services in Unadilla, NY, on Designing Your Herd Health Program. Dr. Camaan discussed ways to improve your herd’s health, and one of the topics she discussed was preventing stress.

Stress is one of the factors that will have an effect on herd health; as stress causes animals to produce dexamethazone — a steroid that is immunosuppressive. There are ways you can prevent stress in your animals.

Psychological stress factors are reduced by socialization and training, moving slow and easy, handling gently with a calm deep voice; moving without a lot of fanfare.

The animals need to feel safe and secure. Animal grouping, or changes in groups all of a sudden

can cause stress because some animals may have to deal with others they don’t like, which can cause them to worry.

Their exposure to human handling should be consistent, calm and quiet, slow and easy. Any time you expose animals to upsetting experiences, it is upsetting to them and will be harder to get next time. Make sure you modify your facilities, such as using holding pens or keyhole feeders to cause less stress and make the job easier. Remember housing, handling and care facilities should provide comfort and cleanliness, with adequate ventilation and air exchange, access to feed and water, good lighting and footing. In addition, your methods of capture and restraint should be as easy as possible for the animals.

She also stated that maintaining health requires preventive medicine, forethought and planning. Two of the most

important requisites of a good health plan are good record-keeping and protocols: Records should not too complicated, or chances are that they won’t get done. Good records will provide historical information, such as name, date of birth, sex, sire and dam, date Bo Se is given, disease testing, weight records, FAMACHA scores, fecals and vaccinations. These records may also provide reminders for future action. They enable you to look back and evaluate your programs. Records of growth rates in kids help you decide which mothers are best, for example.

Protocols are more like lists to make sure you don’t forget anything.

These “checklists” are great for employees, farmsitters, helpers in training. They also maintain consistency in how you run your farm. Even having standard operating procedures for clean-

Cover photo by Troy Bishopp Suzie Taylor poses in the winter stockpiled grass with her happy cows.

Country Folks Western Edition U.S.P.S. 482-190

Page 4 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

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ing the barn makes it easier for untrained labor or when you change labor. In addition, it gives you something to use to evaluate labor salary increases. Examples of protocols include feeding schedules, breeding (when you put buck in, and how to determine which does have been serviced), kidding, newborn kid care such as allowing the dam and kid to bond undisturbed for 60 minutes; weighing the kid and dipping the navel with iodine; if nursing not observed within four hours, feeding colostrums; if disease is present and how to eliminate the spread. Protocols are important to keep your farm operating more smoothly and in case of emergencies, such as if you were to leave or be in the hospital, you can hand the list to someone to take care of your farm.

Biosecurity is the way to keep infectious agents out of your farm.

This is not a new idea, but is the key to preventing diseases for which neither effective vaccines nor satisfactory treatment exists. When biosecurity measures are adopted they will protect your animals and the animals of others. Zoonotic diseases are communicable from animals to humans.

The main ways that disease can enter your herd are via animals; food products; Organic debris on equipment and vehicles, such as 4wheelers or any vehicles

with tires with tread (manure gets in between the tread if you drive through a contaminated area and then onto a clean area, you bring in disease) and on people and their clothing. Humans carry diseases, often unwittingly on their clothes and boots, because they are closest to the animals.

Dr. Camaan suggests wearing coveralls over your clothing and changing the coveralls before going to a new farm — turned inside out and placed on the floor until they are washed.

Following are some Biosecurity basics all animal farmers should use on the farm: 1. The goal is to prevent the introduction of disease-causing agents by people, other animals, tools, vehicles.

2.

Use scrubbable boots, or dedicated barn footwear.

3. Clean and disinfect barn clothing, equipment etc. after use. Wash with hot water and detergent.

4. The best advice — wash hands often.

5. Washing all washable surfaces. Just by washing with hot water and detergent actually removes 98% of germs.

6. Know where visitors to your farm have been; provide shoe covers or boot wash and disposable protective clothing if they have contact with other animals. Keep a list for visitors, and have people register their name, address and phone number. Include a column where they can list what animals they have.

7. Provide boot covers, keep a trash can handy to dispose. If people ask why, it’s to make sure nothing is coming in to your farm, and nothing is spread anywhere else.

8. Change clothes after visiting other farms or remove coveralls and launder.

9. Quarantine new or returning animals from fairs, breeding, and handle them last. Keep them a sufficient distance away from your animals, from 25 to 50 feet away.

10. Do barn chores with youngsters first, handle quarantined animals last.

Dr. Camaan provided these guidelines for disinfection: 1. Surfaces must be clean first before disinfection 2. Follow directions and observe precautions for products chosen - use the proper dilution and contact time necessary to kill the germs. Read the label to see if the product is safe for animal feed contact. Is protective clothing or eyewear required?

3. Do not mix different disinfectants!

4. Dispose of left- over solution properly. Containers may need to be rinsed three times.

She also suggested farmers consider having hot water in the barn or nearby, explaining that if you have to walk 50 yards thru the snow and into house, you are less likely to do it, and you’ll be much more likely to use hot water even when needed.

Feedlot and cow/calf topics to be presented at January conference Farmers interested in learning how to increase their competitiveness and profitability in the current beef cycle should attend the New York Cattle Feeder’s Conference and Winter Beef Management meeting, on Jan. 20-21 at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Syracuse, NY. At the New York Feeder’s Conference on Jan. 20, speakers from Iowa State University, Cornell Veterinary College, Land O’Lakes Purina and Penn State University will discuss the economic outlook for cattle and grain prices, cattle health, performance, and carcass quality. Each of these speakers has been tasked with providing benchmarks that commercial cattle feeders can use to assess productivity, efficiency and profitability of their feedyards. Concluding the day will be a panel of local cattle feeders that will kick off a discussion of the specifications of cattle required to be profitable in an environment of high input prices.

Highlighting the second day of the conference (Jan. 21), Darren Williams of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association will speak about the Master’s of Beef Advocacy, www.beef.org/mastersofbeefadvocacy.aspx program. This six session on-line course gives producers training on “telling your beef story” when speaking to a non-beef audience. Other topics include carcass ultrasound, designing an effective vaccination program, DOT regulations, factors that undermine your profitability, maximizing your breeding program and a history of the Beef Check-off.

Speakers will include national and local beef experts.

For meeting information, contact Brenda Bippert, New York Beef Producer’s Association, at 716-902-4305, nybeefproducers@aol.com, www.nybpa. org/. For information on the education program contact Mike Baker, Cornell Beef Extension Specialist, 607-2555923, mjb28@cornell.edu, www.ansci.cornell.edu/beef/index.html.

Knowing soybean stages simplifies communication

by Sally Colby Although winter crop meetings will soon be here, think ahead to midApril: you’re scouting soybeans and there’s evidence of insect or disease issues. You call your certified crop advisor or extension agent for advice, and they want to know what the growth stage is.

Can you answer accurately?

Del Voight, Penn State Extension grain crop specialist, explains that producers should be familiar with the commonly understood stages of soybean growth, from emergence to harvest. “In order for us to talk intelligently with others, we go by these growth stages,” said Voight during one of several soybean workshops held recently throughout Pennsylvania. “A critical time is the first 20 days. Then later in the season, the pod fill stage becomes critical.

Then it’s important to harvest beans in time to reduce shatter loss.”

The first stage of growth is emergence, or VE, when the first two cotyledons and growing points emerge from the ground. In the next stage, VC, the cotyledons are expanded, and unifoliate

leaves are expanded and unfolded. Next is the trifoliate stage, or V2, in which the margins of leaflets of the second trifoliate no longer touch.

V5 is the stage in which the margins of the leaflets of the fifth trifoliate no longer touch.

“We use indeterminate varieties of soybeans,” said Voight. “They fluctuate in growth — their height is not fixed. The plant can grow very tall depending on conditions.

Determinate varieties grown in the south get up to a certain height and stop. As nights get shorter and days get longer, the plant is triggered to enter the reproductive stage. As soon as there is a flower, the plant is into the R stages.”

The soybean plant is susceptible to infection by rhizobium during the first 21 days of the life; the critical time for nitrogen production. “It takes about four pounds of N per bushel,” said Voight.

“A 60 bushel crop needs about 240 pounds of N. It also needs P — at least 40-50 pounds of phosphate per 60-bushel crop. And it needs about 80 pounds of K. If we don’t account for that, we’re going to be mining

our soil rather than farming it — you’ll see soil test drop.”

During this 21-day stage, the rhizobium produces that nitrogen.

Voight says that Ohio State research showed that rhizobium infection at the tiny root hairs is critical. “The natural rhizobia can get lazy,” he said. “You’ll get infection, and if you squeeze the nodules, they’ll be green or white. They’re not producing anything. Today’s rhizobia strains are much more aggressive and produce more nitrogen. For a very cheap treatment, the return on investment is high — about 200 percent.”

Voight says that growers should check plants for nodules when there are two leaves — the first trifoliate.

Early rhizobia infection is critical. “It’s like corn,” said Voight, “you want N on between D6 and D8 for massive uptake of N. It’s the same with beans. If the nodules become fixated later in the season, it’s too late.” One of the main factors that optimizes rhizobia growth is a higher pH, around 6.5 to 6.8, so soil testing essential.

Voight says that on virgin ground, or ground

that has not had soybeans for five or more years, producers should triple inoculate with rhizobia. “But you can still have problems,” he said.

“If you have excessive moisture levels after emergence, you won’t get infection. If it’s too dry, they can die. There are also a relationships with seed treatments.”

In the R1 stage, the plant has one flower, then flowers spread up the plant resulting in the R2 stage which is fully flowered from bottom to the top of the plant. “It’s full bloom,” said Voight.

“Walk into the field, open the canopy, and look all the way to the soil and see flowers — that’s R2.”

Voight says that R3 is a critical stage for getting the most response from fungicides. The R2 stage lasts about 10 days, then the R3 stage is about 10 to 15 days, depending on the weather. “If you’re a custom operator, and your growers’ beans are entering the R2 stage and you have three weeks of work to do, you could miss that window,” said Voight. “You have to be ready to treat beans at the R3 stage.”

Identifying the R3 stage is simple: from the top of

2012 Conservation Stewardship Program sign-up cutoff date as we approach mid January. We will alert our readers and sustainable agriculture networks of any possible extension, which if granted would likely run through later January or early February. At this point in time, however, to be assured a chance to compete to enroll in the program you must submit an application by Jan. 13.

• Continuous sign-up, but if you miss the cutoff you wait a full year — While CSP is a continuous sign-up program and producers can apply to enroll at any time of the year, NRCS applies a cutoff date for applications to be considered during a particular fiscal year.

Once the cut-off date is past, producers may continue to apply for the program, but they will not be considered for entry until the spring of the following year, in this case spring of 2013, so if you want to enroll in 2012 you must get an application filed by

Jan. 13.

Process and timeline The application form, available at local NRCS offices, is a fairly short and simple one. Producers will also need to fill out the NRCS-CPA-1200 form. It is the same short generic two page form that is used for all the NRCS conservation programs offering financial assistance to farmers and ranchers.

Prior to submitting the CSP application (or an application for any other USDA conservation assistance program) you must have a farm record number established with the Farm Service Agency. If you do not currently have one, go to FSA first to establish your farm record.

All producers who have submitted their completed short conservation program application form by Jan. 13 will then have until early March 2012 to sit down with their local NRCS staff person and fill out the

CSP Conservation Measurement Tool (CMT) which will be used to determine program eligibility, environmental benefits ranking, and CSP payment amounts. The CMT session will generally last an hour or more.

NRCS currently expects to complete the ranking process by early March. Farmers and ranchers with the highest environmental benefits scores on the CMT will be chosen for enrollment.

NRCS will then schedule on-farm verification visits and develop a CSP plan and contract for each enrollee. The agency currently expects that process to last through mid to late April. The first annual payments for fiveyear contracts awarded in this round will be made on or after Oct. 1, 2012 and then every Oct. 1 thereafter.

For detailed background information on CSP, visit the NSAC webpage.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 5

On Friday, Dec. 9, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced that the fiscal year (FY) 2012 ranking period cutoff for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is Jan. 13, 2012.

Interested farmers and ranchers have until Jan. 13, 2012, to complete the initial application form to compete for a spot in the 2012 enrollment class for the program.

To sign up, producers should visit their NRCS local service center.

• Extension possible, but not definite — The ranking cutoff leaves NRCS with roughly one month (during the busy holiday season) to publicize the program and conduct outreach through its state and local offices. We hope that this will be enough time for NRCS and partners to reach out to producers; however, given the tight turnaround, NRCS may end up extending the ranking

Penn State Program Development Specialist Dwight Lingenfelter, left, helps field crops extension educator Del Voight distribute young soybean plants for growers to examine.

Photo by Sally Colby the plant, count down suggests sampling at both three to four nodes. Any two and six inches. Voight that are 1/4 inch or mentioned a study done longer are R3. At this by agronomist colleague point, plants are fully Doug Beegle that showed flowered and starting to that it takes nine years for push pods. R4 is a fully surface-applied lime to redeveloped pod at one of act to the six-inch furrow the four uppermost slice. Voight recommends nodes on the main stem using the quick Cornell with a fully developed pH test for the two-inch leaf. R4 is the most criti- test, or surface test, and cal stage for seed yield — send the six-inch samples any stress to the plant to a soil lab.

The biggest issue for between stages R4 and is convincing R6 causes more yield re- Voight duction than any other growers to drop the corn head and get the beans stage.

Once the pods are pres- when they’re fit. “Every ent, they begin to fill. day that you wait after maturity, “The bean in the pod is physiologic connected by a thin you’re losing about a thread,” said Voight. “As pound of dry matter per soon as that thread is day,” he said. “As the disconnected, the bean pods shrink and swell, has reached physiologic the shattering can be maturity. Ten to 14 days tremendous. It isn’t very later, you’re running the hard to go from two to combine.” Voight added four bushel yield loss to that in any given field, 10 to 15 bushel yield loss. there will be variation in That was okay when growth due to drainage, beans were $4, but now they’re $12.” exposure and slopes.

Voight suggests that Voight mentioned that about 70 percent of soy- growers use the Corn Soybean Field bean fields tested last and year were below 6.0 pH. Guide, published by Pur“If you go to a reputable due Extension and dislimestone quarry, you tributed through numershould get 95 and 105 ous state extension servpercent CEC (cation-ex- ices. “The critical time is getting the plant in the change capacity).”

The results of soil sam- ground and protected, ples are important tool for then up and growing,” soybean growers. Be- said Voight, summarizcause the pH of samples ing the growth stages. taken at different depths “Keep track as it goes can vary greatly, Voight through the stages.”

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Page 6 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

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Crop Comments

by Paris Reidhead Field Crops Consultant (Contact: renrock46@hotmail.com)

Super-frost, right on time As I’m writing on a Tuesday morning, winter is still two days away, according to the calendar. Personally, I’m hoping for a white Christmas. And since a large portion of our readership actually receives their Country Folks (with its Monday date) on Saturday, my Merry Christmas wish to you is on time. To everyone else who reads this, I’m trusting that your Christmas just past was truly blessed. Thus far winter’s warning shots have been quite gentle throughout most of the Northeast.

An exception to that statement occurred about ten days ago when three inches of white fluff piled on most of Central New York, with the mercury right at the freezing mark. I had to creep home at about 30 miles per hour from a customer who lives 55 miles away. Between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. that evening, highway maintenance crews were conspicuous by their absence; I know they’re trying to economize with road salt, fuel, and manhours. Fortunately, there were very few other idiots on the roads beside me. I had about a thousand pounds of weight in the back on my pick-up, so my rear wheels had enough authority to find pavement through all this snowball quality fluff.

Last year I told anyone who would listen (plus some who wouldn’t) that winter started on Halloween. November 2010, according to my electric company’s bill, was five degrees colder than the same period 12 months earlier. My NYSEG bill for November 2011 showed an average temperature of 43 degrees Fahrenheit, which was three degrees warmer than one year ago. This comparative warm spell made possible the production of another batch of biodiesel, which certainly didn’t happen last year (our refinery is not winterized).

We experienced our first bout of serious subli-

mation on Dec. 18, as the temperature plummeted to 3.3 Fahenheit in Hartwick, NY. This happening compares very favorably with the previous year’s first sublimation taking place on Dec. 10, with the mercury nose-diving to minus three at sunrise. For those who have forgotten, sublimation is the transition of a substance from its solid phase to its gas phase, without first passing through an intermediate liquid phase. In the case of water, freezing begins at 32 degrees F (zero degrees Celsius). Even below the freezing mark, a little extra energy, normally from the sun, causes the ice or snow to melt into liquid water, which then evaporates.

However, as the temperature drops to 14 degrees F (-10 degrees C) and below, frozen water is able to change to gaseous state from the solid state, without melting at all. This fact helps snow and ice quietly fade away without ever becoming liquid. Not surprisingly, at these lower temperatures, new-fallen snow does not readily become snowballs, nor snowmen, because what helps the snow assume the shape crafted by human hands is moisture in that intermediate phase.

There are at least two important benefits of sublimation. The first one is a boon to everybody: much of the water vapor squeezed out of snow and ice by super-cold temperatures, particularly on starry winter nights, ends up forming cloud layers. These cloud layers tend to put the brakes on radiational cooling; this fact has meaning for anyone paying a heating bill. The second benefit is pretty much agricultural: cold intense enough to trigger sublimation enhances the soil-weathering effect. Such weathering, absent snow cover, breaks down fall-plowed furrows, as well as broadcast mined soil amendments, such as ground limestone and rock phosphate. If the ground is frozen in these cold temperatures, it’s possible to apply limestone, rock phosphate, and even gypsum. These mined inputs will be nicely broken down by spring planting time, and thus more biologically available to germinating seeds.

If winter 2011-2012 is a little milder than the previous winter, I can learn to live with that, even

if there’s less total sublimation. On Dec. 5, 2010, snow began to fall in our part of Central New York, and there wasn’t a day without new snow until Feb. 7. That was the day on which rain fell, adding to a mass of snow and ice on our metal roof. I wrote about that event in a column called “Glacier meets Chimney”. The huge mass of ice, snow, and rain pushed against the new (four-month-old) chimney, which was not properly secured to our house, causing it to topple over into our driveway.

Mercifully, enough chimney still stood to convey away the exhaust gases from our oil burner. The chimney was rebuilt during warm weather… by a different mason.

As few weeks ago, one our paper’s writers elated that she had seen woolly bear caterpillars with wide black bands, which symbolized a mild winter ahead. There are maxims, as well as legends, that are fun to believe. I like that caterpillar’s prophecy. When I was substitute-teaching at the local vocational school, a few years ago, I asked the conservation instructor about the woolly-bear forecast tool. He said that there was no scientific basis. Then I asked him about wasps’ nests being built higher off the ground in anticipation of a big snow load; he said some years wasps do that, other years they don’t… it’s perfectly random. I asked him if beavers built more ponds in anticipation of a drier summer; he said no to that, there’s more beavers, so they need more ponds.

My disillusionment had begun to compound itself. Then Sue and I went to Switzerland for the first time 10 years ago, and I looked forward to talking to the locals about their thirteenth century hero William Tell. They told me that Tell was just a legend, a story that made them feel good… there was no historical proof of his existence. I was so disappointed to learn that. Upon returning to the U.S., I told my sister, who is editor-in-chief for a major publisher in New York City, what I’d learned about William Tell. She told me that she already knew that. Moreover, that if I was sitting down, she could share with me some recently findings regarding Johnny Appleseed. You know, a man can only handle so much enlightenment.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 7

FOCUS ON AGRICULTURE American Farm Bureau Federation

A storm of estate taxes threatens farm country

by Lynne Finnerty Two recent news reports contained troubling year-end news for farm families.

Farmland values are booming.

Minnesota farmland prices are nearly 30 percent higher than a year ago, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. It’s a similar catastrophe in Iowa where, an Iowa State University survey shows, high corn and soybean prices have driven average farmland values to a new record of almost $7,000 per acre.

I know what you’re thinking: “Isn’t that good news for farmland owners?”

Well, yes, it is good news. That is, unless the farm family patriarch or matriarch dies after December 2012, when current estate tax relief will end. Higher farmland values mean that more people will face the difficult task of figuring out how to pay the estate tax and keep the farm in the family — without having to sell land or other assets needed to farm.

Estate tax relief would have expired last year, but Congress passed a bill to set the exemption at $5 million and the top tax rate at 35 percent for two years. Unless Congress extends the exemption and rates, or even better, eliminates the estate tax, a $1 million exemption and a top tax rate of 55 percent will kick in on Jan. 1, 2013.

Farm families will be outside the exemption on as few as 143 acres in Iowa, where the average farm size is about 330 acres. In Minnesota, the transfer of just 166 acres from one generation to the next will come with a tax bill of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

For all the talk these days about

buying local food from family farmers, you’d think that keeping farms in the family would be a top priority for Congress. But if estate tax relief expires, then it’s almost certain that some of today’s farm families will be selling land rather than selling corn and tomatoes at the local farmers’ market or grain at the local elevator.

Some are able to avoid the tax through savvy planning. But, the cost of estate tax planning, an ongoing endeavor due to changes in farm structure and tax law, is a heavy burden on a farmer’s bottom line in a time of high production costs.

While farm income rose 28 percent this year, production expenses rose 12 percent to $320 billion. Some agricultural experts warn that increases in costs for feed, fertilizer and fuel — and land — could outpace increases in farm income after 2013, due to the cyclical nature of crop profitability.

They advise farmers and ranchers to save now for the rainy days ahead, something that’s easier to do if you don’t have to pay lawyers and estate tax planners.

Today’s record-breaking farmland values should indeed be good news for farmers, but the threat of estate taxes to their families’ ability to continue their agricultural heritage puts a damper on things. Farmland values combined with the expiration of estate tax relief and the aging of America’s farmers and ranchers forecast a perfect storm that could leave fewer farms in business to feed their communities and our nation.

Congress needs to take action early next year to stop this gathering storm.

Lynne Finnerty is editor of FBNews, the American Farm Bureau Federation’s official newspaper.

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Page 8 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Building a Farm Website and Social Network Building a Great Farm Website and Social Network will be the subject of a workshop on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua, NY. If your farm does not have a nice site on the Internet, you are losing sales and public relations opportunities.

Even dairy farms, vegetable growers, and others who tend to wholesale products can keep the community and buyers informed

about your products and practices much more effectively on-line with a simple farm website.

Recently, new tools have come along to make farm website development easier and cheaper than ever. If you have been holding out, now is the time to get your farm on-line.

In this workshop, we will look at several ways to set up an inexpensive website that actually looks good. It’s not as hard as you would think, and during the workshop, we will build a site from scratch so

you can see how it is done. We will also look at how social networking services and blogs are used by farms like yours, and we will learn when it is better to hire a local website developer to help you get the job done right.

Fee: $15 per farm, feel free to bring questions and ideas you have about having a farm website.

Register or more information: Call Nancy Anderson at 585-394-3977 x427 or send name, address and phone number to nea8@cornell.edu.

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Call 888/596-5329 Fax 518/673-2381 Email: subscriptions@leepub.com

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Bring your New Membership cards to the Virginia Farm Bureau Booth 211 at the Virginia Farm Show & receive a free sorting stick*. Sticks will be available for purchase for non-members or you can become a member on the spot and receive all of the benefits that Virginia Farm Bureau has to offer.

Page 12 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

It’s Not the Holiday “Dip” We’d Like to See Issued Dec. 16, 2011 Cash cheese prices declined for the fifth consecutive week.

The blocks closed December 16 at $1.5625 per pound, down 9 1/4cents on the week but still 24 cents above a year ago. The barrels dropped to $1.5350, down 3 3/4-cents on the week, and 17 cents above a year ago. Seven cars of block traded hands on the week and 22 of barrel. The NASSsurveyed U.S. average block price lost 2 cents, averaging $1.8606. The barrels averaged $1.8325, down 8 cents.

Stewart Peterson’s Matt Mattke speculated in Tuesday’s DairyLine that cheese prices might remain close to current levels, pointing out that $1.58-$1.60 is a “key range of support” and “pretty important level to stay above,” because, if we don’t, he warned that we could see the market test $1.54 and possibly as low as $1.48. He quickly added that, if cheese prices stay at current levels, it doesn’t necessarily mean prices will take off and move higher either.

He also contrasted the trading activity and pointed to the large volume of butter particularly that changed hands the last week of November and first week of December and reminded us that the first couple weeks of December are typically not seasonally strong for cheese prices.

Sometimes the first week of December is positive, he said, but the second, third, fourth, and whenever we have a fifth week, they’re typically down weeks so “we’re kind of in the seasonal doldrums.”

He pointed out that, historically, if cheese finishes December on a down note we have seen some pretty decent rebound in January so, “perhaps there’s a little bit of a silver lining here.”

Butter reversed two weeks of small gains despite a small uptick on Thursday and finished

Friday at $1.6025, down 3 3/4-cents on the week, and a nickel below a year ago. Fifteen cars were sold. The NASS average inched 0.4 cent lower, to $1.6245. NASS powder averaged $1.4418, down fractionally, and dry whey averaged 65.37 cents, up 0.7 cent.

California’s Milk Producers Council (MPC) reported in its December 9 newsletter that butter production continues to increase in line with higher seasonal milk production and butterfat content.

It quoted USDA’s Dairy Market News saying that retail and food service sales leading into and over the holiday weekend have been good to very good, helped greatly by retailers’ ads and promotions.

Buyers who have not already placed orders for the next big wave of expected consumer demand are now taking advantage of the current lower prices to place those orders. All aspects of the butter manufacturing and marketing channel are very active, producing, shipping, converting and packaging.

MPC said price increasing two weeks in a row “may be a possible indication that the long, but unsteady, fall which began the last week in August may be at an end,” and added that “DMN hears from butter exporters of possible growing interest as U.S. prices are super competitive with Europe’s but major competition for those sales continues to be Oceania, where milk production is booming.

Mattke praised the whey market which “has had a phenomenal year,” rallying from the 32 cent level to the mid 60s and “we haven’t seen much of a setback this year.”

“It’s been a pretty quiet, pretty steady and controlled rise,” he said, but recalled that, in 2007, whey got to the mid 70s.

He advised that we keep an eye on that market because every penny movement in whey translates into 6 cents on the milk price though he warned “we could see

a setback at any point.”

Meanwhile; schools are or will be closing for the Christmas/New Year’s holidays sending more milk to the cheese vat and pressure prices.

Hopefully, Super Bowl will keep cheese demand strong. I have to mention that my favorite team is the Green Bay Packers and I think it a safe bet they will be in the Super Bowl again so it’s so appropriate that the “cheese heads” will be driving cheese demand.

The Agriculture Department’s latest Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook said that an improved feed price outlook is balanced by lower milk prices in 2012. Production in 2012 is forecast to rise slightly based on higher milk output per cow. Exports are likely to decline next year compared with 2011, contributing further to the lower milk price outlook.

Cow numbers were virtually unchanged from the November forecast and dairy cow slaughter for the January to October 2011 period was about 4 percent above the corresponding 2010 period, and replacement heifer prices are steady.

This suggests no major liquidation is in the offing, according to the Outlook, but cow numbers are expected to decline slightly next year.

Output per cow continues to rise, and lower expected feed prices are the

basis for the increase in the December projected output per cow to 21,315 pounds this year and 21,610 pounds next year.

Looking “back to the futures;” the Class III average for the first six months of 2012 stood at $16.63 on November 4, $16.72 on November 11, $16.78 on November 18, $17.16 on December 2, $16.84 on December 9, and was around $17.02 late morning December 16.

California starts 2012 with a 79 cent drop in its January Class I milk price. The Northern price was announced at $19.88 per hundredweight. The Southern price is $20.15. Both are up $3.43 from January 2011however. The Federal order Class I base price

is announced by the USDA on December 23.

Like a broken record, U.S. fluid milk demand continues to slip. USDA reports that sales in the August to October period were estimated at 13.62 billion pounds, down a half percent from the same period a year ago, based on Federal Order and California state data. Year-to-date sales were off 1.4 percent.

Class I demand is settling into non-holiday week norms, according to USDA. Cream demand is on the rise as production of various butterfatbased products such as dips, whipping cream, and sour cream pushes higher to reach store shelves before holiday grocery shopping begins.

Demand for condensed

skim is also increasing prior to the holiday. As winter weather envelopes much of the northern tier of states, dairy farmers in those areas are turning their attention to feed crop yields and feed input costs. Recent opportunities to buy feed grains at lower prices have helped, but forage prices and availability remain challenging. In the Utah/Idaho milk shed, announcement of a new yogurt manufacturing facility scheduled to open in mid 2012 has milk processors recalculating milk supply and demand, according to USDA. The milk production season in Oceania has passed the peak in both New Zealand and Aus-

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FARMER TO FARMER MARKETPLACE JD 620 WFE runs good, $4,000. 315-3630262.(NY) COCHINS BANTAMS for sale, nice colors to choose from, take one or all sixteen, $5 each, leave a message. 518-9935593.(NY) JD 655 crawler loader, very good condition, $12,900 obo. 6 ft. round hay bales for bedding, $25. 585-554-4736.(NY) ‘96 Dodge V-10, one tone, runs good, little rust, dual wheel, $3,000 bo. 585-8131348.(NY)

OXYGEN/ACETYLENE torch set, with tanks and cart, $600 OBO; Also, Angora mix bunnies for sale, great Christmas gift, $20.00 OBO. 585-526-7051.(NY) 20 big square 1st cutting baleage , $20 each or make offer. Moses Shetler, 5651 Knoxboro Road, Oriskany Falls, NY 13425 500 GAL. double wall tank, $400; 716-6494960.(NY) TWO 13.6x38 6 ply Goodyear tires and tubes, 1/4 tread, no brakes, $200 or best offer. 607-264-3090.(NY)

WANTED: WOODS 315 batwing mower, working or for parts. 315-635-3392.(NY)

SNOW BLOWER for tractor, asking $1,000; 2 Reg. Hereford cows, excellent bloodlines, 3 year old, $1,000 or reasonable offer. 315-363-8966.(NY)

WANTED: WTB vacuum pump for one bucket milker, a donkey preferably neutered male. For Sale: 2 male beagle pups, $100 obo. 518-993-4720.(NY)

FOR SALE: Duetz Fahr round baler, 4x4, model 2.40 cp, field ready. 518-6735474.(NY)

3300 JD Diesel combine, 3R corn head, 13’ rigid grain head, good working condition, $4,500 OBO, Py 315-536-0536.(NY)

A FARMALL M wide front, $500; 20.8-38 tires on Farmall M rims, $695.; Heavy duty snow plow built, $395. 315-942-4069.(NY)

3x10 WOOD FIRED evaporator, $3,000; Also, mallard ducks. Write Ben Schwartz, 388 Cottrell Road, Waterloo, NY 13165.

FOR SALE: Feeder calves, Angus-Irish black cross, all natural 6-8 months old, call Riverside Cattle Farm. 716-569-3484.(NY)

ROUND BALES, 4x5 grass hay, $40, $30 based on cutting, quantity discounts, dry barn, stored, never wet. 518-6386370.(NY)

HAY FOR SALE: 1st cutting Timothy mix, no rain, $2.50 per bale. 518-725-6309.(NY)

WANTED: Discharge conveyor for mixer wagon, hydraulic driven, at least 33” wide, any condition. 716-913-3008.(NY) WANTED: WTB Vermeer bale wrapper and New Holland Disc Mower. Y’all call anytime. 276-988-9654.(VA) BABY DOLL Southdown ewes, 5 total, 1 ram, $150 ea. 607-263-2409.(NY)

JAMESWAY direct express 18” smooth belt, 60’ long with incline and motor, $2,000; Balzer 1016a silage table, $6,000.

585-969-2204.(NY)

CAT 3208, Claus rims, 1700 loadstar, AC cultivator, Oliver 1650 for parts, or whole, 2 horse mowers, 2 mills. 607-849-3856.(NY)

EARLy 50s gas pump, gulf tokiem #39, tall, older, restoration, excellent condition, $1,600, cash only, firm. 315-2520360.(NY)

WANTED: Need a farmer in Central NY interested in raising lambs. 518-3324171.(NY)

OLDER BELGIAN mere, kid broke, price to sell, to good home only, makes good produce horse! 315-858-9236.(NY)

FRENCH ALPINE REG. buck, www.freewebs.com/mayrholm, Price $300, Kids due in spring 2012. 315-6368835.(NY)

MANY IH 1066s, 1466s, fender and cab tractors $6,500 - $12,000. 340 dual baler w/ bale spear, nice, $1,500; 518-6772854.(NY)

FARM MARKET, 27 acres, two large buildings, house, on State Road new state park, needs TLC, lots of potential, $130,000.

585-493-2398.(NY)

CALF-TEL hutch for 2-3 larger calves or large dogs, goats, etc. $195.00 413-5683484.(MA)

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Page 14 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Mielke from A12 tralia and the decline is gradual. USDA says manufacturers and handlers indicate that milk volumes are generally sufficient to maintain near capacity production schedules.

Producers and handlers believe the positive close of last season which carried over to the spring of the current season is a contributing factor for good milk volumes at this time.

Spring and early summer weather patterns have generally been good in both countries.

In other international news; the December 9 CME Daily Dairy Report said that October U.S. dairy export volumes of milk powders, whey, lactose, cheese and butterfat totaled 281million pounds, down 2 percent from September (dailyaverage basis) and down 9.1percent from a year ago.

Shipments of skim milk powder and nonfat dry milk, the largest U.S. export category, totaled 76.1 million pounds in October, down 13.6 percent from September, and down 30.1 percent from the record-high levels of a year ago. Cheese exports, on the other hand, amounted to 37.3 million pounds, up 8.5 percent from September, and up 22.2 percent from a year ago.

In the first 10 months of the year, U.S. dairy exports were valued at $3.96 billion, 29 percent higher than last year, according to USDA. This is already a record-high figure for a full year, even with two months to go in 2011.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) gave a thumbs-down on a 4b milk price hearing petition. In a letter to Western United Dairymen (WUD) CEO Michael Marsh, CDFA director Kevin Masuhara, denied a request for a public hearing on the California Class 4b milk pricing formula.

Masuhara said CDFA would review the issue in

mid-2012 to determine if a hearing was necessary at that time, according to Dairy Profit Weekly. The current dry whey sliding scale in the Class 4b formula has been in effect since September 1 and Masuhara said the three-month period was not long enough to determine how the formula will perform.

As the result of a June 30-July 1 hearing on the issue, CDFA raised the whey factor paid to California dairy farmers, from a permanent 25 cents per hundredweight, to an adjustable rate between 25 and 65 cents.

In its December 2 petition, WUD called for the new hearing, proposing changes to the Class 4b formula to more closely reflect the whey value generated by the federal order Class III formula.

The 4b price in the California order and the Class III federal order price reflect minimum prices paid to dairy farmers for milk used in cheese processing.

WUD was joined by other dairy farmer groups in calling for the hearing, including the Milk Producers Council, Dairy Farmers of America and California Dairy Campaign but several processing groups and companies asked CDFA to deny the request. They argued that further adjustments would negatively impact their ability to expand and innovate at a time when California milk production is growing and more manufacturing capacity was needed.

In another political arena; the consuming public continues to demand integrity in the food it consumes and animal traceability is an important part of that demand. Jamie Jonker, National Milk’s vice president of Scientific and Regulatory Affairs, discussed a letter he authored to USDA regarding animal identification and traceability standards in Thursday’s

DairyLine broadcast.

He said that USDA has for a number of years been contemplating how it might revise U.S. animal traceability and National Milk communicated its support for mandatory animal identification and how it “fits with animal disease traceability,” Jonker said. The Federation reaffirmed its support of RFID tags being the official identification for dairy cattle.

The current USDA identification proposal

doesn’t go far enough, according to Jonker. Occasionally a tag will fall out of an animal’s ear by getting snagged on something, he argued, and the tags the Federation is recommending is being used by dairy producers within their own management system and it would be nice if USDA had an allowance where you could replace the tag with the exact same number so that it can continue to be used in identifying that animal in that management

system.

The tags are also used in breed associations, he argued, so keeping that number the same with the animal during its lifetime, even if it happens to lose a tag so that it can be replaced with the exact same one.

When animals cross state lines, they’re required to have an interstate certificate of veterinary inspection (ICVI) meaning that they have been reviewed by a veterinarian to insure that they meet the ani-

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mal health standards moving from one state to another. National Milk supports this concept and believes it should continue but want USDA to move from the paper ICVIs currently used to an electronic ICVI. The paper base version has many drawbacks, he said, including the length of time required to search volumes of records and the quality of the data that’s actually entered on the forms such as legibility.

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Quality Craft Tools • G Quality Metal Works • 207 Recyc Systems, Inc • 339 Restora Life - Natural Way Feeds • 202 Rockbridge Farmers Coop • 148 Rural Community Insurance Service • 140 Ryder Supply Company • 502 Salford Farm Machinery, Ltd • 137 Sanimax • 310 Southern Farm Supply • 215 Stone Hill Construction, Inc • 527 Sukup / LnR Feed & Grain Sys. • 212 T.A. Seeds • 113, 114 Taylor Manufacturing, Inc • 311 Tech Mix, Inc • 505 The Power Connection • 136 Trissel Equipment • 107 Uncommon USA, Inc • 531A United DHIA • 506 VA Golf Cars Inc • 172 Valley Feed Co • 500 Valley Implement Sales • O-6A Valmetal Inc • 214 Virginia Bin Service • 512 Virginia Department of Agriculture & Consumer Srvcs • 120A Virginia Farm Bureau • 211 Virginia Simmental Assoc. • 510 Virginia Trailer Sales/Double H Equipment • O-14 Vulcan Materials Company • 513 Waste Solutions Forum • 132, 133 Whitesel Brothers Inc / W.S. SE Gea • 108 Williams Brothers Tree & Lawn Service • 503 Wood-Mizer Products, Inc • O-9 SKID STEER RODEO SPONSORS Virginia Farm Bureau - Diamond Level TROPHY SPONSOR Virginia Farm Bureau GIVEAWAY SPONSORS Camping World of Roanoke VA Golf Cars Inc

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 15

Advance Agra Service, LLC • 508 AIC - Agricultural Instruments Corp • 316 Agco Corporation • 201, O-3 Agri-King • A Agri-Plastics Mfg • 213 Agri-SC • 126 Agri-Service, LLC • O-4B Agrotain International • 144 Airgas • 141, 142 AKE Safety Equipment • 206 American Farm Products • 504 Amerseal Tire Sealant • 162 Animat, Inc • 528 Augusta Cooperative Farm Bureau • 127, 128 Bath Fitter • 515 Beverage Tractor • 100, 102, O-4 Binkley & Hurst LP • 210 Bonny View Farms • O-6 C&C Farm Supply • 134, 135 Camping World of Roanoke • 340, 341, O-4A Cargill Animal Nutrition • 145 Channel Bio, LLC • 517 Charvin Farm Ag Plastics • 315 Chemgro Seeds, Inc • 139 Christian Farmers Outreach • 522 CID Attachments, Inc • 203, 204 Cloverdale Supply, Inc • 216 Cobra Torches • 509 Concrete Jack • 156 Conklin Agrovantage • 313, 314 Country Folks Farm Chronicle • 146 Countryside Organics • 138 Croplan Genetics / Neodak Seeds • 518, 519 Cummings & Bricker, Inc • 105, 106, O-15 Dew Eze Manufacturing • O-11 Ed Hoover Construction • 534 Emm Sales & Service, Inc • O-2A Farm Credit • 125 Farm Family Casualty Insurance Co • 205 Farmer Boy Ag • 118, 119 Fetterville Sales • 143 First Bank & Trust Company • 163 Fisher Auto Parts • 329 Garber Farms • O-7

HORSE TALES

Page 16 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

By Judy Van Put Back to the barn…keeping horses healthy and safe We’ve been fortunate to see a slower transition to winter weather here in the northeast.

Generally, in our area of upstate New York, there is enough cold weather and snow on the ground by the end of November to end our horses’ pasture days, but this year, the transition has come later, and the horses have enjoyed those last bits of grass longer into the year despite having to keep them close to the barn during the biggame hunting season.

They have made the changeover to hay for their daily sustenance, in addition to those precious bits of green in between.

By this time, most horse owners will have prepared their barns and turnout areas for winter horse keeping — but it is a good idea to check your paddocks and turnout areas on a regular basis, especially for those horses that have been used to being pastured for much of the year. We’ve heard many tales of horses longing for their summer pasture to find an escape route via a broken or cracked board, stretched wire, unsecured gate.

Check for fallen trees or branches in or around the fenced-in area that might have broken or loosened up fencing.

Look for and tend to loose nails, replace cracked boards, straighten and sturdyup fence posts. If you have electric fence or wire, tighten and check the tension on your fencing, and be sure there is

no short in your electric system.

If you have a cribber or “fence chewer,” cover wooden fence, rails and stalls with wire mesh, or use an anti-chewing paint. We have a young cherry tree just outside the paddock fence that one of our horses started chewing on; and since cherry bark is poisonous to horses, we wrapped the trunk in burlap and tied it securely. Remove any overhanging branches, especially those of red maple, the wilted leaves of which are also poisonous if ingested by horses.

Keep an eye on your paddock or turnout area to make sure your horses have good footing. Remove as many rocks or obstructions as possible, and level out rough or hilly areas if necessary.

Before the heavy snow comes, we often will spend time removing rocks that tend to push up through the soil each year. Try to level and remove any buildup of loose and mucky soil and old hay piles to provide firmer footing.

Check to see that there is proper drainage in your turnout area, especially if you have a watering trough, spring or automatic waterer.

Drag or rake muddy and uneven areas and install gravel or other material to provide better drainage. You may need to dig a trench and install perforated pipe covered with gravel to lead water away from the area. Remember that muddy and wet areas in the early winter soon become icy and slippery as the weather gets colder; your horse

Check electric wires, outlets, fuse boxes to be sure all free of cobwebs and are in good repair. You may need to switch to Ground Fault Circuit Interruptor (GFCI) outlets for safety's sake.

Photo by Judy Van Put

can slip and fall and suffer injury if the ground is not solid and well drained.

There are a number of areas of your barn that will need to be monitored for safety as well. If your barn has running water, check for leaky faucets, pipes and hoses, and make sure your plumbing is in good shape before the cold weather sets in. You may want to consider applying heat tape to your exterior water supply pipes and shutoff valves. For safety’s sake, plug the heat tape directly into a receptacle (do not use an extension cord) and make sure that it is not in an area where curious horses can access it.

Inspect your barn’s electric wiring, outlets and light fixtures; protect light bulbs with cages or safety shields, and upgrade, if necessary, to Ground Fault Circuit Interruptor (GFCI) outlets. Check wiring regularly for rodent damage, and watch that any electric lines that may run across the ceiling rafters of your stalls or barn aisles are affixed securely to the rafters — wires that are hanging down can be dangerous and can become entangled around a horse’s head should he rear unexpectedly.

Clean cobwebs and dust often, as they will build up quickly (especially if you store your hay and bedding where your horses are kept) and can become a fire hazard. A fire can be

started from dusty cobwebs touching a hot light bulb — and can travel quickly along ‘ropes’ of cobwebs from one end of the barn to the other, dropping sparks and flames from stall to stall.

Floors and aisles should be swept and kept free of hay and organic matter on a daily basis, preferably when your horses are outside, so as not to cause them to breathe in excess dust.

Check your stall flooring on a regular basis, inspecting rubber mats for holes or wear, and wooden floors for cracks or holes; replace boards if necessary. If you have a dirt floor, you will have to fill in low spots with dirt, sand or clay

from time to time. Stall doors should be operating smoothly and have no protruding or loose nails or screws. Windows should be protected with wire mesh or grills to prevent breakage.

Your feed room should have a solid, hinged door that is horse-proof and rodent-proof. If there’s a gap between the floor and the bottom of the door, tack or nail a rubber strip along the bottom of the door so that it sweeps along just above the floor, to provide a rodent-proof seal. If you do not have a separate room for feed, make sure that the container you keep your feed in is not accessible to hungry or mischievous horses — and

that it is rodent-proof.

Keep your feed bins and pails clean; use up old feed from the bottom before starting a new bag.

Check the expiration dates on your horse’s medications, de-wormers and feed supplements from time to time, and toss those that are outdated. If your barn is unheated (as most are) take medications and liquids into the house that might freeze in the barn during the winter.

By taking the time to keep your turnout in good repair, and your barn tidy and well-organized, you’ll rest assured that your horse is safe and secure and sheltered from the from the cold and inclement weather of winter.

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Penn State sharing dairy farm profitability research in free conference call series UNIVERSITY PARK, PA — For the past several years, the Penn State Extension Dairy Team has been conducting research about key aspects of dairy farm profitability. Penn State researchers will share this information at a series of informal conference calls, starting in January.

Titled “Show Me the Money: Strategies for Dairy Farm Profitability,” the program is open to anyone in the dairy industry at no cost, courtesy of a USDA grant. Callers will learn dairy profitability

strategies gathered from the research, and will have an opportunity to discuss strategies for improving their own dairy farm profits, all from the comfort and convenience of their home or office.

The format for the conference calls will be short presentations by Penn State researchers or other agribusiness professionals, followed by opportunity for questions and discussions from participants.

Each call will be no more than one hour in length, and will be made using a toll-free

phone number.

The series features calls on five topics, offered on various dates and times. Each topic will build off of the previous topic discussed, but participation in all calls is not required.

Topics, dates and times include: • Topic #1 – Current Research Update: Whole Farm Assessment Tools to Identify Strategies for Increased Dairy Farm Profitability. Offered Jan. 18, 12 to 1 p.m. and repeated on Jan. 19, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Financial and production data have been

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contact the Penn State Extension Dairy Team office toll-free at 888373-7232 or complete the online registration form at www.extension.psu.edu; click on “dairy” to find the Penn State Extension Dairy Team program list.

Upon registering, participants will receive a toll-free conference call number to dial into to participate in the phone call. Pre-registration no later than five business days prior to each call is required to receive printed materials that will be discussed during the calls. Last-minute registrations will be accepted, but printed materials will only be available to those who register at least five days in advance.

This program is funded through USDA Dairy Profitability Special Grant #2009-3443719958. The series qualifies for SmartStart credit from AgChoice Farm Credit. Participants must attend 3-5 conference calls to receive 1 SmartStart credit.

Resource Management Strategies for Small Livestock Farms Nutrients, Pastures, Barnyards, Exercise Lots, Compost… What are Best Management Practices and how do I use them on my operation?

What watershed is my farm located in and how do our farm practices impact it?

A four-part series will be offered on Jan. 21, Jan. 28, Feb. 4 and Feb. 18 in the Demonstration Room at the Farm & Home Center; 21 South Grove Street; East Aurora, NY 14052.

Each session will be 9 to 11:45 a.m.

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ter prepare for borrowing tomorrow.

• Topic #4 – The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Investments. Offered Feb 29, 12 to 1 p.m. Return on an investment is critical for a dairy operation when expanding or just renovating and updating equipment. How do you get the most “bang for your buck” when investing in your dairy?

Dr. Lisa Holden, associate professor, Penn State Department of Dairy and Animal Science, will discuss good and bad investment decisions and how they affect the bottom line.

• Topic #5 – Best Management Practices for Profit.

Offered March 14, 12 to 1 p.m. and repeated on March 15, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Rebecca White, senior project associate, and Dr. Lisa Holden will discuss key best management practices that can improve profitability.

There is no fee to participate in this conference call series, but pre-registration is required. To pre-register,

/ 888-280-0952

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agement, Barnyard and Exercise Lots, Grazing Basics, Pasture Plants and Renovation, Weed Management, and Making and Utilizing Compost. (NYS DEC Pesticide credits in application for the Feb. 18 session on Weed Management.)

In addition, two Field Sessions are planned for April 2012 for demonstrating the Cornell Soil Health Testing and Weed Identification. The sessions are tentatively scheduled for April 21 and April 28 respectively.

The series will assist participants in completing New York State Soil & Water Conservation Committee – Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) assessments of current farm practices. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Erie County is providing these courses through an agreement with the Erie County Soil & Water Conservation District.

Cost is $30 for all six sessions and course materials including a

copy of the 2012 Cornell Guidelines for Field Crops and a Cornell pH test kit.

Proper management of nutrients and pastures provide for healthy livestock, and protect our land and waterways.

From “AEM is Good Horsekeeping” - … by managing… pastures more effectively and incorporating the benefits of a sound waste management system, [farm] managers can increase forage production, lower production costs, improve aesthetics and promote a healthier environment.

Pre-registration requested by Jan. 16. To register, contact Deborah Murphy at 716-6525400 x 176.

For more information, contact Sharon Bachman with CCE-Erie County at 716-652-5400 x 150. For persons with disabilities requiring accommodations, please contact Sharon Bachman at 716-652-5400 x 150 by Jan. 16.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 17

Five Star International 1810 S.19th Street Harrisburg, PA 17104

collected on dairy operations from across Pennsylvania.

Learn more about what information was collected, what types of farms were used, and some of the overall themes from 2009 and 2010. Penn State Profitability Assessment Dairy Tool data summary information will be discussed.

• Topic #2 – Forage Quality, Feed Costs, and Financials. Offered Feb. 1, 12 to 1 p.m. Virginia Ishler, Penn State nutrient management specialist and manager of the Penn State Dairy Research Complex, will discuss how forage qualities and feed costs affect your Income over Feed Cost and what changes you can make today to increase cash flow.

• Topic #3 – Loaning Money to Farms: Opportunities, Risks, and People. Offered Feb 15, 12 to 1 p.m. Richard Stup, director of business management services at AgChoice Farm Credit, will discuss what banks look for when lending to farms. Find out what you can do today to bet-

A Few Words

by Phoebe Hall

Visiting grandkids Five of our grandkids were here for a visit last week and Grandpa took them out for awhile, keeping them busy most of the afternoon. They came in all excited. Grandpa did this and that, I finally got to the meat of all their jabbering. Grandpa had taken a ladder and one of the oldest grandsons had helped him cut down the wasp

nest in the tree by the wood heater.

They thought they’d struck gold! I disagreed. There could have been a few wasps still alive in the old nest, but there weren’t, although I’m still not sure I should trust my husband in the future.

The kids were so excited as they placed the paper wasp nest in their van, along with pieces from the rock they com-

mandeered. They had also wanted to visit the site of the TNT rock their Grandpa blew up when he was in Agriculture class back 50 plus years ago. They asked if they could take a few pieces home to show their parents their find.

When their Mom saw all the clutter in her van she asked what it was all about. The kids filled her in on all their goings on. How many kids can tell stories like the ones they have been told and probably shouldn’t have been?

This week as I was waiting for my husband to come out from the chi-

ropractor, I saw a couple who are a little older than we are that we’ve known for years, walking into the office. My husband had been fussing with rambunctious animals in the barnyard, which made for another trip to the chiropractor. I don’t know who will retire first, my husband or the chiropractor, but I know who should.

When this other couple entered the office, my husband smiled and asked them if they had milked cows for a living.

They didn’t recognize him, so both the wife and husband smiled. “Who is that?” he heard the hus-

band mumble, and she answered, “I have no idea.” “We share the same great grandson,” my husband hinted to them.

They guessed for awhile, naming almost all of their great grandchildren. Finally they guessed the right one and they had a good laugh, since we haven’t visited with them much lately.

When my husband came out from his doctor’s appointment, the couple was still waiting.

So they visited for a few more minutes before we left for our next destination. As we made our way to our next destination, my husband re-

membered that he had been so busy chatting with the other couple that he’d forgotten to pay for his doctor’s visit.

By the time we realized what had happened, we were on the other side of town and decided to stop back on the way home.

So later on we made another quick visit to meet our obligation to the doctor. The office staff just laughed, knowing what dairy farming and being grandparents and great grandparents can do to someone.

But it’s worth it all.

Children’s children are a crown to the aged, (Proverbs 17:6a) NIV

Apply now for the 2013 Corn Board The National Corn Growers Association Nominating Committee is now accepting applications from members for the 2013 Corn Board.

Through the Corn Board, members can become an integral part of the organization’s leadership.

The NCGA Corn Board represents the organization on all matters while directing both policy and supervising day-to-day operations. Board mem-

bers serve the organization in a variety of ways.

They represent the federation of state organizations, supervise the affairs and activities of NCGA in partnership with the chief executive officer and implement NCGA policy established by the Corn Congress.

Members also act as spokespeople for the NCGA and enhance the organization’s public standing on all organiza-

tional and policy issues.

In a recent Off the Cob interview, NCGA President Garry Niemeyer stressed that every grower, even if he or she is unaware, has a wealth of knowledge and perspective to offer the organization. He also noted that serving fellow farmers through the Corn Board rewards volunteers with training and experience that hone leadership and

communications skills.

Characterizing Corn Board service as “the opportunity of a lifetime,” Niemeyer then encouraged prospective candidates to “step forward and take that chance.”

Applications are due Friday, Jan. 13. Nomi-

nated candidates will be introduced at the March 2012 Corn Congress meeting, held in conjunction with the Commodity Classic in Nashville, TN. Corn Board members will be elected at the July 2012 Corn Congress in Wash-

ington, D.C., and the new terms begin Oct. 1.

For more information, growers may contact Kathy Baker at NCGA’s St. Louis office at 636733-9004.

Source: NCGA News of the Day, Wednesday, Dec. 14

315-923-9118 Clyde, NY

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Page 18 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

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PENNSYLVANIA MARSHALL MACHINERY INC. Rte. 652 east of Honesdale, PA Hours: Mon.-Sat. 8 am-5 pm 570-729-7117 www.marshall-machinery.com

New York Farm Bureau offers testimony at Assembly Hearing Joint hearing examines agricultural disaster relief and preparedness ALBANY NY — The New York State Assembly Committees on Agriculture and Government Operations held a hearing on Dec. 15 to examine issues related to the State’s disaster relief and preparedness

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“On behalf of the nearly 30,000 members of New York Farm Bu-

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“While there is clearly more to be done to allow our farm families to recover from these storms, that does not

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Overall, Suarez highlighted the responsiveness of the Governor and State agencies to both storms and their

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aftermath. Some important points covered in New York Farm Bureau’s comments included: • Praise for the overall communication efforts made by State Agencies but also the need to constantly evaluate and improve • Highlighting the need to work with the

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December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 19

Department of Environmental Conservation to ease requirements for clearing, cleaning the dredging ditches, streams, rivers and various tributaries that feed them to mitigate future flood events.

• The need to find a repository for large scale generators to assist Dairy farmers who are without power for long periods of time • A recommendation that the State consider providing training to first responders in livestock safety and emergency response • A recommendation that those farms designated as “Wholesalers” as opposed to “Direct Marketers also be allowed to apply for disaster funding through the Agricultural and Community Recovery Fund • Complimenting State Agencies for being flexible with deadlines, permits and reporting requirements in the wake of recent disasters “Governor Cuomo and his staff as well as the entire state workforce deserve tremendous credit for their tremendously helpful response to the recent storms,” said Julie Suarez, Director of Public Policy for New York Farm Bureau.

“The fact that 97 percent of all roads and bridges are now accessible and communities are receiving funds to assist recovery efforts, is a testament to their dedication and persistence. Moving forward New York Farm Bureau will continue to work with all of the stakeholders to complete the recovery process.”

Page 20 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Penn State Extension offering cash flow planning workshops for dairy producers UNIVERSITY PARK, PA — The dairy industry is constantly changing and evolving. The perception is that producers can do very little to control milk income and on-farm profitability.

This is not true, explains Virginia Ishler, nutrient management specialist with Penn State Dairy Extension. “Producers can learn to manage risk to control their future,” said Ishler.

“Exerting control requires that producers know their break-even income over feed cost and their milk margin break-even. Knowing these costs will help dairies adapt to changing conditions as they develop,” notes Ishler.

Penn State’s risk management team has developed a one-day workshop where producers can complete their annual cash flow and determine their income over feed cost/milk margin breakeven.

Knowing this vital information will allow producers to use several risk management tools to maintain an operation’s margin — something that is especially important when milk prices are trending low and feed costs are trending high. “And with many parts of the country experiencing extreme weather conditions, including flooding and drought, earlier this year, it will be important to monitor a farm’s margin with potential high feed costs on the horizon,” adds Ishler.

Managing Your Milk Margin to Improve Your Dairy Cash Flow workshops will be offered at sites around Pennsylvania. Producers will create a cash flow for their dairy as they determine their income over feed cost at the workshop.

Training is hands-on and is limited to small groups of no more than 8-10 farms at each site.

Each workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Several extension specialists will be on site to work one on one with

each farm. They will assist each farm with data entry and to help ensure accurate information is being entered.

The workshop’s morning session provides a hands-on opportunity to actually complete the individual’s dairy cash flow. This portion of the workshop will focus on entering the ration and

crops and annual cash flow information into Excel. Producers will bring their own data to the workshop to use in the planning process. Some intermediate knowledge of computers is helpful.

The income over feed cost and cash flow checklist is located at www.das.psu.edu/dairyalliance/education/prof-

itability. With all the information from the checklist it should take approximately two hours to enter in the farm’s information and to have the income over feed cost and milk margin breakeven numbers by lunch time.

During the afternoon session, discussion will center on how to make

decisions using these numbers, especially related to cropping strategies. Discussion will also include monitoring the farm’s financials and making decisions earlier so profitability is not compromised.

Program dates and locations include: • Jan. 25: Bradford County, Edgewood

Restaurant, Troy, PA • Jan. 27: Berks County, Blue Mountain Family Restaurant, Shartlesville, PA • Jan. 31: Centre County, Visitor Center, State College, PA • Feb. 2: Cambria County, Keystone Restaurant, Ebensburg, PA

Penn State A21

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Acadian AgriTech • 910 Adams County Nursery, Inc • 115 Advanced Sprayer & Water Tech • 931, 932, 933, 934 Agraquest, Inc • 705 Agricultural Data Systems, Inc • 602 Agro One • 421 Amaizeingly Green Value Products, ULC • 108 American Takii, Inc • 709 Andre & Son, Inc / Nature Safe • 114 Applied Agricultural Technologies • 214 Arctic Refrigeration Co. • 518 BASF - The Chemical Company • 402 Bayer Crop Science • 201, 300 BCS Shop • 325, 424 BDI Machinery • 403, 405 Bejo Seeds, Inc • 320 Belle Terre Irrigation, LLC • 519, 521, 523 Biagro Western Sales • 700 Blackberry Patch • 106 Burgess Baskets • 107 Business Lease Consultants, Inc • 604 CAS Pack Corporation • 103 Clifton Seed Co • 303 Community Bank, NA • 924 Community Markets • 200 Compac Sorting Equipment • 423, 425, 522, 524 Conklin Agro Vantage • 806 Cornell Pesticide Management Education Program • 804 Cornell University-NYSAES • 100 CropCare Equipment by Paul B LLC • 719, 721, 816, 818 Crop Production Services • 600 Country Folks Grower • 1014 Dow Agro Sciences • 606 DuBois Agrinovation, Inc • 503 DuPont Crop Protection • 909, 911 Durand-Wayland • 205 Empire Tractor • 117, 119, 121, 216, 218, 220 Farm Family Life & Casualty Insurance Co • 101 Farmer’s Choice Foods • 915 FB Pease • 102 Fingerlakes Trellis Supply • 605, 607

Food Bank Assoc of NYS • 504 Frontlink, Inc • 941, 942 Gowan Company • 501 Grimes Horticulture • 304 Growers Mineral Solutions • 319 Growers Supply • 217 Growth Products • 210 GVM, Inc • 723, 725, 820, 822 Hansen-Rice, Inc • 904 Harris Seeds • 901 Haygrove Tunnels, Inc • 307 Hill & Markes, Inc • 808 Hillside Cultivator Co., LLC • 301 Hillside Orchard Farms • 419 InterCrate Inc • 603 IPM Laboratories, Inc • 112 J&M Industries, Inc • 703 Kepner Equipment, Inc • 1005, 1006 Koppert Biological Systems • 805 Kube Pak Corp • 706 Lambert Peat Moss, Inc • 938 Lansing Sales & Service, Inc • 929 Lee Shuknecht & Sons, Inc • 906 Lucas Greenhouses • 520 Maier Farms • 305 Mankar Ultra Low Volume Sprayers • 1000 Marrone Bio Innovations • 701 MAS Labor H-2A, LLC • 203 Mid-Lantic Labeling & Packaging • 903 Mike Weber Greenhouses, Inc • 809 Miller Chemical & Fertilizer Corp. • 316 Monte Package Company • 206 N. M. Bartlett, Inc • 801, 803, 900, 902 Natural Forces, LLC • 221 Natural Industries • 321 New York Center for Agricultural Medicine & HealthNYCAMH • 623 Nichino America, Inc • 506 Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York • 109 Nourse Farms, Inc • 707 NTI Global • 1001

NY DOL - Rural Employment • 122 NYS Department of Ag & Markets • 1013 NYS Department of Ag & Markets-Crop Insurance Education • 204 NYS Flower Industry • 111 NYS Vegetable Growers Association • 950 O. A. Newton • 819, 821, 920, 922 OESCO, Inc • 525, 624 Oro Agri Inc • 202 Paige Equipment Sales & Service, Inc • 711, 713, 810, 812 PCA - Supply Services • 418 Penn Scale Manufacturing Co • 116 Pennsylvania Service & Supply, Inc • 937 Phil Brown Weldin Corp. • 323 ProducePackaging.com® • 502 RE & HJ McQueen • 209, 211, 213, 215, 308, 310, 312, 314 Reed’s Seeds • 407 Rupp Seeds, Inc • 406 Rockford Package Supply • 302 Seedway, LLC • 318 Siegers Seed Company • 400 Sinknmore Div - Polyjojn Enterprises Corp • 618 Spectrum Technologies, Inc • 625 Stark Bro’s Nurseries & Orchards Co • 207 Stoke Seeds, Inc • 401 Stokes Blueberry Farms & Nursery • 212 Summit Tree Sales • 507 Suterra, LLC • 505 Syngenta • 702, 704 Targit Sales Associates, LLC • 807 Tew Manufacturing Corp • 935 The Horticultural Society • 907 Treen Box & Pallet • 919 Tuff Automation • 802 USDA NY Agricultural Statistics Service • 113 Valent U.S.A. Corp • 306 Van Ernst Refrigeration • 620 VirtualOne • 500 Wafler Nursery • 404 Wessels Farms • 601 White’s Farm Supply, Inc • 619, 621, 718, 720

For trade show and exhibiting information, please contact Dan Wren, Lee Trade Shows, P.O. Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

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For Registration Information go to https://nysvga.org/expo/register/ For Exhibitor Information go to www.leetradeshows.com

The 2012 Empire State Fruit and Vegetable Expo is sponsored by: New York State Vegetable Growers Association Empire State Potato Growers New York State Berry Growers Association New York State Farmers’ Direct Marketing Association

New York State Horticultural Society Cornell University Cornell Cooperative Extension NYS Flower Industries

Year end accounting on your dairy farm

by Peggy Murray, Farm Business Mgt. Educator (Lewis County) The year 2011 is winding down, crops have been harvested and equipment is being put away for the year.

Now is the time to take

a look at the financial side of your business.

Fine tune your accounting system and make sure that it is up to date and meets the needs of your business. Is your chart of accounts set up to

give you an accurate picture of your business? Your accounts should not only be for tax purposes but they also should be set up to help you make good financial decisions.

Also, make sure to

reconcile your checkbook so that you have accurate numbers for year end. Are all income and expenses accounted for?

Accounts Payables are another area to look at. Did you make payments on expenses that were actually accrued in 2010; will you have expenses for 2011 that will not be paid until 2012? If so, this will affect your bottom

line and adjustments should be made to show the profitability of your business in 2011. For tax purposes — farming is on a cash basis so these accounts payable do not affect your tax liability but do affect the profitability of your business.

Loan Payments — make sure to separate principle and interest on any loans. Interest is an expense — principal

is not. Although both affect cash flow, only the interest is used in calculating your profitability.

Make an appointment with your tax preparer. Every farm business is different, but all need to make sure they have a tax plan so they won’t have to pay unnecessary taxes. Jan. 1st is too late — before year -end is the time to do this.

Penn State from A20 • Feb. 3: Lebanon County, Penn State Extension Office, Lebanon, PA • Feb. 14: Huntingdon County, Penn State Extension Office, Huntingdon, PA • Feb. 16: Cumberland County, Penn State Extension Office, Carlisle, PA • Feb. 22: Crawford County, Holiday Inn Express, Meadville, PA • Feb. 23: Fayette County, AgChoice Farm Credit Office, New Stanton, PA • Feb. 28: Somerset County, Penn State Extension Office, Somerset, PA • March 7: Blair County, Penn State Extension Office, Altoona, PA Advance registration is required. Husbands and wives and other dairy coowners/co-managers are encouraged to attend together to develop their cash flow as a team. The fee is $40 per farm. Thanks to a grant from the Center for Dairy Excellence, producers with CDE Profit Teams may take advantage of this training at a discounted rate of $20. A total of 40 scholarships are available at this reduced rate; first-come, first-served. For more information or to register, call the Penn State Extension Dairy Team toll-free: 888-373-7232.

Additional details are available at: www.das.psu.edu/dairy-alliance/education/managing-risk-to-control-your-future This workshop qualifies for 2 SmartStart credits from AgChoice Farm Credit.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 21

Page 22 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Commissioner appoints Dairy Promotion Advisory Board

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Darrel J. Aubertine announced the appointment of the 14th New York State Dairy Promotion Advisory Board.

The New York State Dairy Promotion Advisory Board consists of: • Arnold Dueppengiesser of Perry, endorsed by Dairylea Cooperative, Inc. • David “Skip” Hardie of Lansing, endorsed by New York Farm Bureau • Terence Ives of Bainbridge, an at-large member • Georgia Macauley of Mt. Morris, an at-large member • Ronald McCormick of Java Center, endorsed by Niagara Frontier Cooperative Milk Producers’ Bargaining Agency, Inc. • John Mueller of Clifton Springs, endorsed by Rochester Cooperative Milk Producers’ Bargaining Agency, Inc. • Kim Nelson of West Winfield, an at-large member • Carol M. Rea of Cambridge, endorsed

by Agri-Mark, Inc. • Edwin Schoen of Phelps, endorsed

by Dairy Farmers of America • Carroll Wade of Jasper, endorsed by New York State Grange The 10-member Dairy Promotion Advisory Board advises the Commissioner on the disposition of approximately $12.5 million a year in funds collected from milk producers under the producer-approved New York Dairy Promotion Order.

The Board also recommends promotion programs, nutrition education programs, program information and other supporting services, as well as various dairy product quality research proposals.

Each board member serves for three years.

Nominations were submitted by milk producers under the New York Dairy Promotion Order.

The first New York State Dairy Promotion Advisory Board was

appointed in May 1972 at the request of dairy producers.

New York State has 5,380 dairy farms that produce over 12.5 billion pounds of milk annually, making New York the nation’s fourth largest dairy state. The dairy industry is the

State’s largest agricultural sector, contributing significantly to the State’s economy by generating $2.2 billion at the farmgate, over half of the State’s total agricultural receipts, and providing some of the highest economic multipliers in the State.

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2012 Dairy Summit offers hands-on insight acres of pasture land.

Keynote speakers for the event include Dr. Bruce Jones, University of Wisconsin Madison, who will discuss the “Key Principles for Success in Dairy Today and Tomorrow,” and Dick Beardsley, author of the best-selling book, “Staying the Course,” who will share a stunning story of overcoming extreme obstacles.

Gigi Vitae, president and COO of Fonterra’s North America division, will discuss how a global marketplace, dairy policy and the farmer’s mailbox price interrelate, with exports having a significant impact on what happens domestically. Drew Wilkins, procurement manager for Cargill Regional Beef in Wyalusing, PA, will showcase Cargill Meat Solutions’ commitment to providing great-tasting meats to their customers and how that commitment begins at the farm gate.

For farms interested in renewable energy, a panel discussion on Thursday morning will show how renewable energy technologies are providing opportunities for dairy producers to capture additional sources of income. Jerry Bingold from the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy will be part of the panel discussion and will show how national initiatives are opening new avenues for producers to benefit from this technology.

Six breakouts will be part of this year’s summit, with breakout sessions held on early Wednesday morning, Wednesday afternoon and early Thursday morning. The six breakouts include: • The Dairyland Initiative: A Guide to Welfare-Friendly Dairy Housing, hosted by Dr. Nigel Cook, University of Wisconsin-Madison, to share the ideas and standards needed to produce an economically-viable dairy industry with animal well-being as the number

Page 24 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

A look ahead to 2012

by Bob Gray As we move into the new year it is important to take a quick look back on what happened in 2011: Reform of Dairy Policy: We have gotten off to a good start here with the House and Senate leadership support of the Dairy Security Act. It is something we can build on in 2012.

Agriculture Immigration Reform: A mixed bag but we have to keep pushing.

Any kind of immigration reform legislation is not likely to pass in 2012. However there may be some administrative remedies that can help in the short run.

Environmental Regulations: The good news is that we have the attention of our Members of Congress in helping to thwart the over-zealous regulatory efforts of EPA. The pushback has helped to stop and slow down some onerous regulations that have been proposed by the agency. On the downside, EPA continues to push forward on new and more stringent regulations — and legislation to stop these efforts has often been bottled up in the Senate.

Agriculture Program Funding: There is no question that there will be continued cuts in many USDA program such as Conservation, Rural Development and Energy. For the current fiscal year (FY2012), the EQIP program which supports projects at the farm level for manure management actually received an increase in funding over last year’s level.

However more cuts in USDA programs are expected in the near future and we will need to make sure animal agriculture receives its fair share of funding.

Increasing Truck Weights on Interstate Highways: There may well be a light at the end of the proverbial tunnel on this as support has been building in Congress to give states the authority to increase truck weights on their interstate highways — if they opt to do so — all of which will mean greater efficiency in hauling, and less truck traffic on state and local highways.

Marcellus Shale Development: We want to remain as the clearing house for information on this vital issue. It is an issue that will be part of the landscape for years and years to come. We intend to continue to keep everyone informed.

Trade: Good news with the ratification of the South Korea, Columbia and Panama Free Trade Deals.

The South Korean agreement will be most helpful to dairy. Next in line is the Trans Pacific Partnership trade agreement on which negotiations are currently underway. Since New Zealand is part of the TPP, those of us in the dairy industry have to be vigilant.

Political Outlook: Some sunshine but mainly cloudy with storms cropping up periodically and without warning. We have to live with the political gridlock here in D.C. and work our way through it.

Source: NDFC E-letter for Dec. 21

one goal.

• The Potential of Alternative Feeds to Improve IOFC, hosted by Dr. William Weiss, Ohio Ag Research and Development Center, to outline the considerations to make when evaluating alternative feeds, including feed efficiency, nutrient composition and shrinkage.

• Using Genomics to Strengthen Your Herd’s Future, a panel discussion with three dairy producers sharing how they’ve found success in using genomics to build their future herd.

• Strategies for Improved Reproduction, a panel discussion with three producers providing insight on what they’ve included in their herd management programs to improve reproduction and what results they have had.

• A Roadmap to Robotics, a panel discussion with two producers who have used robotic milker systems for several years and can share the stumbling blocks they’ve found along the way and how they’ve gotten the new technology to benefit their business.

Understanding the Ins and Outs of Succession Planning & Estate Tax Laws, a panel discussion with Vicky Trimmer with the Persun & Heim law firm, Tim Sutherland, financial planner with AgChoice Farm Credit, and a dairy producer offering advice on smoothing transitions between generations.

Sponsors and exhibitors have already committed to supporting this event, with more than 25 organizations already reserving spaces in the summit’s trade show. Session breaks and an evening reception are held within the trade show, giving summit dairy

producer participants the opportunity to learn more about the latest offerings available to help their dairy business.

Registration brochures with more program and registration information are available online at www.padairysummit.org. To request a copy of the brochure, e-mail info@padairysummit.org with your contact information. The deadline for reservations is Jan. 30.

The cost to register is $200 per person, with a $100 discount for dairy producers available through the Lancaster Workforce Investment Board (WIB). Additional scholarship opportunities and discounts for one-day participants and multiple participants from the same farm are also available.

For more information about the summit, contact Caroline Novak from PDMP at 717-889-1065 or caroline@pdmp.org or Jayne Sebright from the Center for Dairy Excellence at 717-259-6496 or jsebright@centerfordairyexcellence.org.

Cliff Hanehan

HARRISBURG, PA — The program is set for the 2012 Pennsylvania Dairy Summit, scheduled on Feb. 8-9 at the Lancaster Host Resort in Lancaster, PA. Offering a mix of cutting edge industry discussions and hands-on farm management insight, this year’s summit is expected to draw more than 500 dairy producers and industry leaders together to gain new insight, gather different ideas and expand their knowledge base.

The summit is hosted annually by the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania and the Center for Dairy Excellence, with support from the Penn State Extension Dairy Team and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The Dairy Summit is now in its seventh year, with participation and support for the annual event continuing to grow.

New this year, the summit will offer a one-day “Core Dairy Track” to provide dairy managers who have difficulties getting away with meaningful information to take back and quickly apply to their operations. Continuing education opportunities through the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists, the Pennsylvania State Board of Veterinary Medicine and Farm Credit’s SmartStart program are also part of the event.

A highlight of the summit, this year’s producer showcases feature Hanehan Dairy Farm in New York, presented by Cliff Hanehan, and Greenstone Grazing in Georgia, presented by John Neizen. Hanehan Farms’ location at Stillwater, NY, includes 700 milking cows and 1,100 acres, while the farm’s satellite operation in Sydney, NY, managed by the next generation of Hanehans, also has 700 milking cows.

Greenstone Grazing is a 700-cow management-intensive grazing dairy with 300 irrigated and 70 non-irrigated

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Extension holding calf health and heifer management workshops UNIVERSITY PARK, PA — Dairy producers and their employees can improve their calf raising and heifer management skills at two different workshops organized by Penn State Extension and offered at sites across the commonwealth, January through March.

The Calf Health and Management Workshop will focus on calf care for animals from birth through 6 months of age. Colostrum management, calf health, vaccines for calves and younger heifers, calf and weaned calf housing, and calf and weaned calf nutrition are among the topics to be explored. Animal well-being issues will also be discussed.

The Heifer Management Workshop explores all factors necessary to effectively and efficiently manage a successful heifer program. The emphasis is on animal well-being as it relates to management of heifer nutrition,

health and vaccination programs, reproduction and synchronization, and housing systems.

“These workshops are for managers or employees who manage, care and feed calves and heifers,” explains Dr. Jud Heinrichs, professor of dairy and animal science at Penn State, who will be one of the workshop instructors. “Calves and heifers are the future of a dairy farm and their health growth, and well-being are important to the success of the dairy.”

Other workshop instructors include Dr. Ernest Hovingh, Dr. Robert Van Saun, and Dr. David Wolfgang, Penn State Extension veterinarians; and John Tyson and Dan McFarland, Penn State Extension engineers.

Each one-day workshop will be offered from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on these dates at the following sites:

Calf Health and Management Workshop • Mifflin County: Jan. 24, Penns Valley Christian Retreat, McVeytown, PA; and • Blair County: Jan. 31, The Park at Morrison's Cove, Martinsburg, PA. Heifer Management Workshop • Westmoreland County: Jan. 27, Penn State Cooperative Extension Office in Westmoreland County, Greensburg, PA; • Franklin County: Feb. 23, Penn State Cooperative Extension Office in Franklin County, Chambersburg, PA; • Blair County: Feb. 28, The Park at Morrison's Cove, Martinsburg, PA; • Bradford County: March 1, Edgewood Restaurant, Troy, PA; • Mercer County: March 6, Penn State Cooperative Extension Office in Mercer County, Mercer, PA; and • Lancaster County: March 8, Shady Maple Smorgasbord, East

Earl, PA. Advance registration is required.

The registration fee is $25 per person, per workshop.

Pennsylvania dairy producers and their dairy employees may attend this workshop for the discounted fee of $12.50, thanks to a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. To receive this discount, recipients must be willing to provide their Social Security Number to the Department of Labor and Industry at the workshop. Those unwilling to provide SSN will be charged the full rate of $25. Pennsylvania agribusiness professionals and non-PA dairy producers/employees are not eligible for this reduced registration fee.

To register, call toll-free, 888-3737232, or register online with your credit card at www.extension.psu .edu. Each workshop qualifies for 2 SmartStart credits through AgChoice Farm Credit.

Another landmark day for the beef business in New York Dec. 3 was another landmark day for the beef business in New York.

Trowbridge Farms held another Customer Preconditioned Feeder Calf Sale in Canandaigua, NY, in conjunction with the regular Finger Lakes feeder calf sale. At the top of the market were these vaccinated calves from Trowbridge customers at $1.43 per pound. Cattle feeders have long known the value of Trowbridge sourced, vaccinated cattle, and this market has again shown that demand.

This event is one of many things that make up the well known Trowbridge customer service program.

Preceding the sale, on Friday night, Dec. 2, Trowbridge Farms also hosted an educational seminar for customers and friends, with more than 30 people in attendance. Topics included a presentation from Phil Trowbridge on how to score feet and udders in cattle.

The Trowbridge family thanks all who participated in the weekend events, and look forward to seeing breeders at their upcoming producer meetings throughout the spring, and their annual bull sale on May 5, 2012. More information is always posted at www.TrowbridgeFarms.com.

A farm bill in an election year?

Trowbridge Family.

Photo courtesy of Shanahan Cattle Promotions

by Bob Gray Well, nothing is easy legislatively these days and going back to square one on the Farm Bill next year is going to be very interesting. Not only is it a Presidential elec-

tion year, the entire House of Representatives and a third of the Senate will be up for re-election.

There are certainly a lot of questions that will have to be answered.

For example, will the

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December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 25

SPECIAL OF THE WEEK

$23 billion in cuts proposed by House and Senate Agriculture Committee leadership to the Deficit Reduction Committee still be in order ... or will a new budget baseline have to be established? Since the Farm Bill process that took place in the hectic weeks leading up to the failure of the Super Committee on Nov. 23 was less than transparent, many members of the Agriculture Committees want to start over.

Timeliness in getting a Farm Bill done will be very important. If the process drags on into next summer with the Presidential and Congressional elections looming in November the Farm Bill could well be put off until 2013. So it is going to be very interesting!

Source: NDFC E-letter for Dec. 16

Scholarships available for future leaders to attend dairy summit HARRISBURG, PA — Funding is available for students and young adults ages 17-25 who want to attend the 2012 Pennsylvania Dairy Summit, providing financial assistance to cover registration and hotel costs.

The summit will be held Feb. 8 and 9 at the Lancaster Host Resort and Conference Center in Lancaster. It features cutting edge information for today’s dairy managers and agribusiness leaders.

The deadline to apply for scholarships, sponsored by the Center for Dairy Excellence and Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association, is Jan. 13.

“Attending the summit is an excellent way for our industry’s young people to gain insight into the opportunities and challenges that exist in today’s dairy industry,” said John Frey, executive director of the center.

“It’s also a great opportunity to meet other dairy producers and industry profession-

als who are passionate about the future of Pennsylvania’s dairy industry.”

To be eligible, applicants must operate a dairy farm, be employed on a dairy farm or be enrolled in an agricultural degree program in a college or trade school. All applicants will receive a Workforce Investment Board discount and must agree to attend and pay a $25 registration fee.

Scholarships are on a firstcome, first-served basis for

Dairy Leader Scholarship winners to offset hotel costs.

Up to 25 one- or two-night hotel scholarships are available at a maximum value each of $220, or $110 per night, and may be used only on Feb. 7 and/or 8.

The Pennsylvania Dairy Summit is hosted jointly by the center and the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania. Supporting partners are the Penn State Extension Dairy Team and the Pennsylvania Department of Agricul-

ture.

Send applications to Emily Yeiser, Center for Dairy Excellence, 2301 North Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110. Applications can be faxed to the center at 717705-2342 or e-mailed to eyeiser@center fordairyexcellence.org.

Winners will be notified by Jan. 17. Scholarship applications and complete conference information are available at www.padairysummit.org.

Page 26 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

New York Farm Safety Program increases rebate to farmers by $100 to $865 Farmer hotline open at 877-ROPS-R4U COOPERSTOWN, NY — In late October, livestock farmer Edward Machuga had a large tree limb he had just cut spring back at him as he sat on his tractor.

The limb stuck his rollbar, and Machuga walked away unharmed. He had recently installed a rollover protective structure (ROPS) on his tractor through a life-saving program sponsored by the New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health (NYCAMH).

“That limb sprung up from the bottom, came across and caught that bar, otherwise I don’t know what it would have done to me,” Machuga said. “It was a good thing that I had that protection on my tractor. My grandson drives it all the time so I feel safer that he has the rollbar, and I feel safer too,” he adds. Machuga, of Bradford, NY, is in the process of retrofitting his third John Deere tractor through the

ROPS Program.

NYCAMH’s New York State Rollover Protection Structure (ROPS) Rebate Program has successfully targeted the leading cause of death on farms — tractor overturns. Now in its sixth year, NYCAMH refunds farmers 70 percent of the cost of installing a roll bar and seatbelt on a tractor.

This equipment is 99 percent effective in preventing harm to the operator in the event of an overturn.

On Dec. 15, the rebate maximum increases from $765 to $865, an additional $100 savings for New York farmers.

Wayne Conard of Ridgedale Farm in Sharon Springs, NY, also had a near accident after retrofitting his tractor. “We were in

the middle of harvesting oats last summer when a loaded wagon came loose, came up and bounced off the top of the rollbar right above my head,” Conard explains. “It probably saved my life.”

The ROPS program has been so successful that it expanded in recent years to New Hampshire, Vermont and Pennsylvania.

“Our program has increased by ten-fold the number of farmers making their tractors safe by retrofitting them with rollover protection systems,” said Dr. John May, director of NYCAMH. “This is important because a farmer’s risk of dying on the job is eight times higher than that of the average American worker.”

ROPS is just one of many life-saving programs sponsored by NYCAMH. For nearly 25 years, the organization has worked with New York farmers to decrease the number of farmers killed and injured on the job, address worksite hazards, prevent costly injuries and reduce workers compensation costs.

“I tell farmers now that if they want to

hang around, put the protection on your tractor,” Machuga said.

For more information

or to register for the ROPS rebate program, call 877-ROPS-R4U (or 877-767-7748).

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Progressive Agriculture Organization visits Washington, D.C. Officials of the Progressive Agriculture Organization (Pro-Ag), were in Washington, D.C. in mid-December conferring with several members of the Agriculture states of various members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, as well as meeting with different individual members of Congress.

The officials had high level meetings with the staffs of Senator Stabenow (D-MI), Senator Harkin (D-Iowa),

Senator Roberts (R-KS), Senator Leahy (D-VT), Senator Gillibrand (DNY), and Senator Reid (D-NE). Senator Harry Reid is the leader of the U.S. Senate.

The officials also had high level meetings with Agriculture staff members of members of Congress including: Collin Peterson (D-MN), Louise Slaughter (DNY), Tom Marino (RPA), Richard Hanna (RNY), and Chris Gibson (R-NY).

Arden Tewksbury,

Manager of Pro-Ag, stated, “There is growing concern in Washington D.C. concerning the financial crisis facing the majority of dairy farmers across the United States. However, it is very evident that thousands of dairy farmers need to speak up and let their Senators and members of Congress know what should be done to correct the crisis.

Pro-Ag and the National Family Farm coalition are moving forward with

S-1640, the Federal Milk Marketing Improvement Act of 2011.

While S-1640 has been obtaining additional support from many farm organizations, the Pro-Ag offi-

cials realize that more support for S-1640 must be obtained.

The question is, do you dairy farmers want to have your milk price based on the cost of producing milk, or do

you want other people to price your milk? The decision is yours!

Pro-Ag can be reached at 570-8335776 or e-mail progressiveagricultureorg@ gmail.scom

2012 Pesticide Training and Recertification Classes CANANDAIGUA, NY — A series of pesticide training and recertification classes are being offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension. Anyone interested in obtaining a pesticide certification and meets the DEC (Department of Environmental Conservation) experience/education requirements or current applicators seeking pesticide recertification credits should attend. This training is NOT a 30-hour certification course.

The Pesticide Training and Recertification classes will be held at Cornell Cooperative Extension — Ontario County on Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. with the exam being offered on March 5, from 7 p.m.–11 p.m.

The cost for the pesticide training to obtain a license is $120, includes training manuals and attendance at all four classes. This does not include the $100 DEC exam fee, due the day of the exam. Certified applicators, private and commercial, seeking recertification credits will receive 2.5 core credits per class. The cost for recertification is $70 for all four classes or $20 per class. To receive registration material or for additional information, contact Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County at 585-3943977 ext.

427, e-mail nea8@cornell.edu or ext. 436, e-mail rw43@cornell.edu The registration form is available on-line at www.cceontario.org

Congressman Chris Gibson (L-R) (R-NY), who represents the 20th district in New York State; Arden Tewksbury, Manager, Pro-Ag, and Congressman Richard Hanna (R-NY) who represents the 24th district in New York State.

Photo courtesy of Pro-Ag3

ASA announces new communications director

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tainability and farm policy. He has worked in various public relations roles with agencies and the radio broadcast industry.

Delaney is from the Kansas City area. He has a bachelor’s degree in Persuasive and Political Communication from George Mason University and is working toward a master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from West Virginia University.

Bob Callanan, who has served as ASA Communications Director based in St. Louis, moves into a new position as ASA’s Project Development Director, where he’ll develop program concepts and proposals to be presented to state soybean affiliates, qualified state soybean boards, and industry partners.

Communications Coordinator Cassandra Langley will have an expanded role at ASA’s headquarters in St. Louis, assisting Delaney in the implementation of communications developed there.

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December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 27

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American Soybean Association (ASA) CEO Steve Censky announced that Patrick Delaney has joined ASA as Communications Director, effective Dec. 15. Delaney is based in Washington, D.C. within ASA’s Washington Policy Representative Office of Gordley Associates.

“ASA is pleased to welcome Patrick to our team,” Censky said. “His experience in ag policy communications will serve him well in his role with ASA, where he will craft timely communications on policy decisions and issues happening in Washington, as well as talking points and analysis to keep ASA’s farmer-leaders and state affiliates informed.”

Delaney comes to ASA from the United Fresh Produce Association, where he managed staff, advised leadership and communicated to key audiences and stakeholders on all publicity matters, including advocacy and crisis communications on nutrition, labor, food safety, immigration, trade, sus-

Home,, Family,, Friendss & You Team mac ‘n’ cheese with holiday leftovers Macaroni and cheese is, without doubt, one of America’s most popular comfort foods. It’s quite adaptable and can be served as a festive side to roast beef, lamb or pork, chicken or turkey. It’s also the perfect partner to enjoy with that leftover holiday ham, and travels well, too, for tailgate or bring-a-dish gatherings.

Its roots here are in the South, and was first served at a White House dinner hosted by Thomas Jefferson.

His cousin Mary Randolph help to popularize it with a mention in her cookbook “The Virginia Housewife,” published in 1824.

The macaroni dish featured here is simple to prepare using a mixture of three distinct cheeses, and has an incredible rich, creamy texture, thanks to a combination of Jarlsberg and American cheese. The fresh goat cheese adds just the right touch of delicious tangy flavor.

While a curly pasta version is pictured, you also can use classic elbow. With so many tasty possibilities, don’t feel limited to the variations suggested below.

until coated; mix in diced cheese.

4. Transfer to prepared casserole dish and sprinkle with buttered breadcrumbs. If desired, sprinkle with additional paprika. Bake 30 minutes or until center is bubbly-hot and crumbs are golden. Serves 8 to 10.

VARIATIONS When combining pasta with cheese sauce, fold in: • 2 cups cooked small shrimp or shredded cooked chicken (or 1 can of tuna) with 1 cup frozen petite peas.

• 2 cups small cubes of chorizo, kielbasa or ham, with 1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes. Instead of buttered breadcrumb topping, use crushed, lightly salted tortilla chips.

• 2 cups small broccoli florets and 1 cup each (cooked, well drained) lean, chopped beef and chopped mushrooms.

• 2 cups cooked crumbled bacon or prosciutto and 1/4 cup fig jam. (c) 2011 King Features Synd., Inc.

2 cups (8 ounces) elbow macaroni or other curly pasta 1/2 stick butter, divided 1/3 cup unseasoned fine dry breadcrumbs 1/2 teaspoon paprika 3 tablespoons flour 3 cups milk 1 4-ounce log soft Chevrai (unripened goat cheese) 2 cups coarsely shredded Jarlsberg cheese 1 cup diced American cheese 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 2-quart round ovenproof casserole dish. Cook pasta until al dente; transfer to colander and drain.

2. In same pasta pot over very low heat, melt butter; remove from heat. Measure off 2 tablespoons butter and, in small bowl, combine with breadcrumbs and paprika. Set aside.

3. Return pot to heat. Blend in flour and simmer until bubbly (1 minute). Gradually whisk in milk, goat cheese and shredded Jarlsberg. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until mixture is creamy-smooth and thickens slightly. Return pasta to pot and toss

‘Tis the season to receive delicious food gifts such as sausage, cheese and hams, says Londa Nwadike, the University of Vermont Extension food safety specialist. If you receive a gift of food this holiday season, ensure quality and safety by following the storage guidelines listed below.

• Cans or jars of meat: Check the label to determine if refrigeration is required. If so, it can generally be refrigerated for six to nine months unopened. If refrigeration is not required, the unopened product can be stored for up to two years (However, the sooner you consume it, the better the quality will be.) After opening, you can store the product safely in the refrigerator for three to four days.

• Country ham: If unsliced, dry-cured ham is shelfstable for one year. If sliced, ham may be refrigerated for two to three months. Once cooked, it can be refrigerated for three to five days.

• Sausage: Dry fermented sausage that is NOT labeled “keep refrigerated” can be stored unopened at room temperature for four to six weeks or in the refrigerator for up to six months.

Once opened, sausage will keep about two weeks in the refrigerator. If the package says “refrigerate,” keep the product refrigerated and use it within three weeks once opened.

• Turkey: Frozen uncooked turkey can be stored in

Page 28 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Three cheese macaroni

A handy guide to storage of food gifts the freezer for up to six months without loss of quality or safety. Otherwise, refrigerate for use within one to two days.

• Game birds: If raw, store in the refrigerator no more than one or two days before cooking, or three days after cooking. Frozen birds will keep up to one year in the freezer.

• Cheese: Most hard or processed cheeses can be safely stored unopened for three to six months in the refrigerator and three to four months if opened.

• Nuts: Refrigerate after opening to preserve freshness and prevent rancidity. Nuts also may be frozen for up to a year after opening to retain quality and freshness.

Madison County Dairy Princess Emily Livermore was recently at the Share-A-Caring Christmas presented by Nye Ford in Oneida, NY. Livermore partnered with WMCR and handed out goodies to the crowd such as cookies, cheese, pizza, milk, and oranges. Livermore also talked with the crowd and the people listening on the radio about the importance of 3every-day of dairy. Livermore would also like to remind everyone at home to make sure to get their 3-every-day of milk, cheese, and yogurt.

Photo courtesy of Emily Livermore

This week’s Sudoku solution

Statement from New York Farm Bureau on agreement to allow Fage Yogurt Factory expansion to move forward “This morning’s ( Dec. 16) news that Governor Cuomo was able to bring together local leaders in Fulton County to resolve differences over the proposed $100 million expansion of the Fage yogurt factory in Johnstown is welcome indeed. This expansion will not only create 150 new good paying jobs in the local area, but it will also serve as a vehicle for New York’s dairy farmers to expand and reinvest in their business.

“Fage currently produces 52,000 tons of yogurt each year and has

quadrupled its production since opening in 2008. Since it can take up to three gallons of milk to make a gallon of yogurt, the benefits for upstate dairy farmers and their families is obvious. This proposed expansion will provide much needed stimulus to the upstate economy in general and the agricultural sector in particular.

“Fage located its facility in Johnstown precisely because of the access that location provided to supplies of fresh quality milk. The ex-

pansion of Fage, taken in combination with the Chobani yogurt plant in Chenango County and the announcement of two more yogurt processing facilities in Genesee County, promises significant benefits to upstate dairy farmers and consumers.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Governor Cuomo to expand the production of milk to meet increasing demands brought on the by the rapid growth of the processing sector. Identifying additional economic development initiatives

for dairy farms to help them meet these demands is crucial. Any such investment, however, will be returned a thousand fold, as every dollar invested will stay in New York’s economy.

“Once again, Governor Cuomo has been able to bring people together to do the right thing for New York State-and on behalf of New York Farm Bureau and its nearly 30,000 member families, I offer my sincerest thanks and congratulations.”

Inaction by Congress will likely result in lapse of biodiesel tax credit As the end of the year approaches and acrimony among Congress increases, it is unlikely that Congress will address a tax extenders package or the biodiesel tax credit before both expire on Dec. 31. Congress appears to be at an impasse over legislation to extend the payroll tax break, and no action is likely on extensions of other tax incentives.

This is a disappointing end to an otherwise very positive year for the biodiesel industry.

The industry set a record for production in 2011, with more than 800 million gallons produced through October. It is possible that the year -end volumes could approach 1 billion gallons.

There is still the possibility that Congress, as it has done in the past, could enact a retroactive tax extenders package next year. The biodiesel tax credit lapsed in 2010, resulting in a significant drop in production, job losses and some plant closings.

Eventually, it was extended retroactively for 2010 and through 2011.

Leaders in both parties have indicated a desire to consider a tax extenders package early in 2012. Another positive sign is that a draft package of tax extenders, recently circulated by Senate leaders, includes the biodiesel incentive. For this reason, the American Soybean Association (ASA) will continue to urge Congress to come together on a bipartisan basis to ex-

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ners, will continue to stress the positive economic impact the biodiesel tax incentive delivers across the country, and continue

to urge policymakers to end the cycle of uncertainty by enacting a longer -term biodiesel tax credit as soon as possible.

Grain marketing webinar series starts Jan. 18 A fast paced, fact based, interactive webinar series has been designed to keep you informed on the current state of the corn and soybean markets on the East Coast. In addition to the sharing of market news and trends, this educational series features a “marketing strategy lesson” twice each month.

An additional component of this activity that many farmers enjoy is the ability to participate in the Commodity Challenge market simulation. We have a specific challenge set up for webinar participants. The Commodity Challenge is a time tested, web based grain marketing “competition.” Farmers have the opportunity to

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practice marketing strategies without really risking anything put their pride.

Each participant receives: • Access to the twice monthly interactive webinars; • Access to recorded and archived webinars for review at any time; • Use of the exclusive Commodity Challenge marketing game for this series; • Opportunity to compete for the Commodity Challenge awards; and • John Hall's weekly grain market commentary delivered via email.

For additional program details and registration information c h e c k http://goo.gl/mqQS2 or contact John Berry, johnberry@psu.edu, 610-391-9840.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 29

New facilities and renovations for:

tend the biodiesel tax credit early next year.

ASA, along with the National Biodiesel Board and our biodiesel industry part-

Your Connection to the Northeast Equine Market

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4-H to offer Public Speaking Contest Community support is encouraged JAMESTOWN, NY — Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County 4-H Youth Development Program has scheduled its annual Chautauqua County 4-H Presentation Day for Saturday, March 10, 2012, at the Cassadaga Valley Central School. Over 75 youth are anticipated to participate in this year’s public speaking day.

Participants will enhance their public speaking skills, learn the research process, gain the ability to think and speak in front of a large group, develop poise and self

confidence, and experience “Mastery.” 4-H presentations are 5 to 15 minutes in length depending on age and experience. Each presenter will be evaluated on a number of criteria. The delivery and subject of the speech will be judged on proper use of equipment and visual aids, efficient organization, proper grammar and vocabulary, understanding of the subject matter, and that the presentation has one main theme with logical steps. The presenter will also be evaluated on neatness and appropriate dress, eye contact, volume and rate of their

voice, posture and poise, enthusiasm, and response to audience questions.

4-Her’s will be awarded a blue, red or white ribbon for excellent, good and worthy presentations. Each presenter is evaluated using the Danish System whereas they are scored based on their own age and abilities, not compared to other participants.

Each 4-H Presenter will be evaluated by a team of three judges. The judging teams are comprised of two 4-H Adult Volunteers and one 4-H Teen who evaluate each youth and provide encouragement

and feedback on how to improve their presentation skills in the future.

Nearly 40 4-H Adult and Teen volunteers will be serving as evaluators for this event.

Approximately 10 youth will be selected for outstanding awards which may include an opportunity to participate in a District Presentation Contest.

Chautauqua County 4H is seeking adults that have an interest in helping provide quality youth development. Adults are needed to help evaluate public presentations on Saturday, March 10.

If you are available and interested in supporting this excellent youth development opportunity pleas contact Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County 4-H Office at 716-664-9502,

Melinda Waag of the Fredonia Fireworks 4-H Club delivers her presentation at last year’s 4-H Presentation Day.

4-H dairy participants practice for competition Join 4-H Today JAMESTOWN, NY — Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County 4-H Dairy members are practicing for the 2012 4-H Dairy Bowl Contest.

Can you name the six major breeds of dairy cattle in less then 30 seconds. If

you were a 12 year old and actively involved in the Chautauqua County 4-H Dairy Bowl contest you would have rattled off Holstein, Jersey, Guernsey, Brown Swiss, Milking shorthorn, Ayrshire, before most of us had a chance to take a breath.

4-H Tractor and Machinery Operation Certification Program offered connect an implement or any of its parts to or from such a tractor.

Equipment Operation — This allows youth who successfully complete requirements to operate or assist to operate the following equipment: hay mower, hay baler, forage harvester, forage blower, feed grinder, crop dryer, auger conveyor, the unloading mechanism of a non-gravity type self-unloading wagon or trailer, corn picker, cotton picker, grain combine, power posthole digger, power post driver, a nonwalking rotary tiller, potato digger, or mobile pea viner. This includes starting, stopping, adjusting, feeding, or any activity involving physical contact associated with the operation of the equipment listed. Youth must have satisfied all the requirements for the Tractor Operation and must have completed a total of at least 24 hours of instruction.

The schedule for the course is as follows: There will also be three Sunday Sessions from 1-4 p.m. with the locations to be announced. Two of the sessions will be for more hands on learning and the last session will be for the driving test.

Mondays — Jan. 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27, and March 5 (written test) or March 14 (written test date if one of the scheduled sessions are cancelled due to weather) 7:30 p.m.– 9:30 p.m., Steuben County Office Building, South Conference Tentative Sunday, March 4 or March 11 TBA (driving test) location to be announced 1-4 p.m.

For more information about the Steuben County 4-H Program contact Cornell Cooperative Extension at 607664-2300 or visit us on the web at www.putknowledgetowork.com.

studying the latest trends and emerging knowledge of the dairy industry as well as providing a sound teaching of the fundamentals of dairy cattle.

Did you know an average dairy cow consumes 35-50 gallons of water per day? And Cows spend 6 to 10 hours per day chewing their cud, also known as mastication, or rumination. Our 4-H junior dairy bowl members are faced with questions similar to this as they compete against teams and as individuals in the district state and national dairy bowl contests. Chautauqua County Youth Dairy Bowl is open to interested participants. Participants will be practicing for a District Competition and then competing for a chance to advance to the State competition to be held in late April at Cornell University.

The next Dairy Bowl practice is scheduled for Dec. 29 at the Frank Bratt Ag Center in Jamestown. To learn more about Chautauqua County 4-H Dairy Bowl or how you can become involved in 4-H contact Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Office and speak with Emily Kidd or Lisa Kempisty 716664-9502.

Donors give record $16 million to National FFA Foundation in 2011 Two months ago, the National FFA Organization announced a new record membership of 540,379 students thanks to more than 17,000 students in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands signing up during the 2010-11 school year.

On Dec. 13, the organization’s fundraising arm, the National FFA Foundation, announced it raised a record $16 million through corporate and private financial contributions to support FFA in 2011.

The foundation welcomed 40 new corporate sponsors in 2011, raising the total number to 1,212. Three new corporations combined for a $3 million gift to FFA. The foundation also drew more than 80 new companies and organizations as exhibitors at the 2011 National FFA Convention & Expo, the nation’s largest gathering of students. More than 53,350 FFA members, teachers and school administrators attended the 2011 event.

“We were well positioned in 2011 with the resources we needed to ensure our members received the ultimate FFA experience through our programs and key

initiatives,” said National FFA Foundation executive director Rob Cooper.

“Our core programs, including career development events, proficiencies, scholarships, award competitions and more, were funded at 90 percent — another record high. Without the commitment of our donors, it would be impossible for FFA to make a meaningful difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of students.”

Providing opportunities that help FFA members grow and succeed is the work of the National FFA Foundation. Foundation donors make possible award and recognition programs, scholarships, service learning activities, global engagement programs, national FFA convention functions, educational materials, teacher training and much more.

Created in 1944 and governed by a 19-member national board, the foundation gives companies, organizations and individuals opportunities to provide financial resources and cooperation in support of FFA programs and other agricultural education organizations.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 33

Youth who will be 14 and over as of March 1, 2012, can take the course for certification. Participants who want to earn their certification must pass both the written exam and the driving test.

The cost for this course is $15 for 4-H members to cover the cost of materials and is payable to CCE by Monday, Jan. 9, 2012, with the registration form that can be found on the website at www.putknowledgetowork.com and click on 4-H Youth Development and then click on other programs or by contacting Kim at Cornell Cooperative Extension at 607-664-2306.

Non 4-H members are eligible to take this course but in addition they will need to complete a 4-H enrollment form as an independent member by Monday, Jan. 9 which is found on the above website and pay the $5 4-H enrollment fee.

The Hazardous-Occupation Order for youth under 16 makes it unlawful to hire or even permit without pay any youth under the age of 16 to participate in any work activities listed as hazardous, unless: 1. The youth is employed, either with our without compensation, by their parents or legal guardian, or 2. The youth 14-15 years old has a training certificate which provides an exemption from certain hazardous work activities.

3. The Tractor and Machinery Operation Program allows for youth under the age of 16 who successfully completes the program to engage in agricultural work activities below if they are 14-15 despite the fact the activities are listed as “agricultural work activities classified as hazardous for youth under 16”.

Tractor Operation — This training allows youth who successfully complete requirements to: operate a tractor over 20 PTO horsepower, or connect or dis-

Youth involved in the 4-H Dairy Bowl program practice regularly to enhance their knowledge of dairy cattle and the dairy industry. The 4-H Dairy Bowl is a skills contest with the primary objective to provide an opportunity for youth enrolled in a 4-H dairy project to demonstrate their knowledge of dairy related subject matter in a competitive setting where attitudes of friendliness and fairness prevail. It is also hoped that these contests will prove to be an educational experience for both participants and spectators.

Dairy bowl participants can be 9-13 years old and participant as a novice or junior member or 14-19 years old and participate as a senior member. Participants in Chautauqua County and throughout the state have been studying from over 14 assigned resources, for hundreds of questions used for the Dairy Bowl Contest. Chautauqua County is proud to have 4-H Alumnus and a member of the Dairy industry Sarah Bean as our 4-H Dairy Bowl Coach. Sarah in conjunction with 4-H Dairy Youth Coordinator, Lisa Kempisty work diligently to ensure the youth are

Page 34 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

RFA corrects record in letter to Senate committee Critics of biofuels miss few opportunities to mischaracterize scientific studies and comments in their quest to demonize domestic production of ethanol and other renewable fuels. In a letter to the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee leadership on Nov. 30, a group of usual antiethanol suspects grossly misrepresented the finding of two recent papers on American biofuels and American biofuel policy — one from the National Academies of Science and one from United Nations Committee on Food Security (CFS). These groups, including corporate livestock, food manufacturing, fossil fuel production, and other industries, are seeking a hearing on domestic biofuels and the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

Clarifying the record, the Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to the same EPW Committee leaders that directly refutes the statements made in the Nov. 30 letter and provides additional research confirming the benefits of domestic biofuel production.

“A recent letter to you from several anti-biofuel organizations grossly misrepresented and distorted the findings of recent studies by the National Academies of Science (NAS) and United Nations Committee on Food Security (CFS),” wrote RFA President and CEO Bob Dinneen. “We are writing to address the letter’s obvious mischaracterizations of these two studies, particularly as they relate the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

Judging by their erroneous description of the studies’ key conclusions, it seems the authors of the Nov. 30 letter likely did not even read the studies to which they refer.”

Specifically, the RFA took exception to assertions made in the Nov. 30 letter that the NAS study offered definitive conclusions about the environmental impacts of ethanol or the efficacy of the RFS. “While the Nov. 30 letter suggests the NAS report offers definitive conclusions about the environmental impacts of biofuels, the co-chairs of the panel distinctly emphasize in the study’s preface that ‘… our clearest conclusion is that there is very high uncertainty in the impacts we were trying to estimate. The uncertainties include essentially all of the drivers of biofuel production and consumption and the complex interactions among those drivers: future crude oil prices, feedstock costs and availability, technological advances in con-

version efficiencies, land-use change, government policy, and more,’” the RFA pointed out.

The RFA also highlighted a finding of the NAS report conveniently omitted in the Nov. 30 letter that “…using biofuels holds potential to provide net environmental benefits compared to using petroleumbased fuels …”

Some of the participants in the NAS research work have also questioned its applicability given its incompleteness and lack of definitive conclusions. “For example, it has been reported by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (publishers of the journal Science) that Dr. Virginia Dale, an ecologist at the DOE’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, believes the NAS report “is not based on the most current information” and could be “misleading if the assumptions of the analysis are not considered.”

Dr. Dale encouraged readers to “read the details with care,” an admonition the authors of the Nov. 30 letter clearly ignored,” the RFA wrote.

Regarding the U.N. CFS study, the RFA noted that no mention of the RFS or specific biofuel policies were included in the study. “In fact, the brief CFS report, which simply summarizes recent discussions by the committee’s expert panel on food security and nutrition, doesn’t even mention the RFS a single time,” the RFA wrote. “Moreover, in regard to biofuels, the report recommends only that the expert panel should consider a review process that considers both the positive and potentially undesirable impacts of biofuel policies around the world. Much more of the report is focused on constructive recommendations to address food security concerns, including reducing food waste and post-harvest losses, “tightening up” speculation on the futures market to “avoid price manipulations,” revisiting international trade rules, increasing investment in agriculture technology and research, and other actions that impact global food security.”

The RFA believes that this letter and the claims made by these groups do not warrant a hearing by the Senate EPW committee. However, the RFA concluded that “should your Committee decide that hearings are indeed warranted, we ask that your witness lists be fairly balanced to include representatives from the biofuels industry, and academics such as Dr. Dale who understand the enormous promise of biofuels.”

JANUARY 3-4-5, 2012 YORK FAIR GROUNDS • YORK, PA TUES. 9-4 • WED. 9-4 • THURS. 9-3

DAUPHIN COUNTY COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SEMINAR ROOM 2 LOCATED IN THE TOYOTA ARENA

SEMINAR SCHEDULE TUES. JANUARY 3, 2012 11am-11:30am The Fate of Pesticides in the Environment, Paul H. Craig, Penn State Cooperative Extension (1 Core Credit)

11:30am-12pm Soybean Pest Management Update, Del Voight, (1 Category Credit)

1:00pm-1:30pm Surfactant Management To Increase Pesticide Efficiency, Mena Hautau (1 Core Credit)

1:30pm-2:00pm What’s New in Herbicides for 2012, John Bray (1 Category Credit)

WED., JANUARY 4, 2012

11am-11:30am Soybean Pest Management, Del Voight (1 Category Credit)

11:30am-12pm Spill Management, Bill Ridon (1 Core Credit)

1:00pm-1:30pm What’s New in Herbicides for 2012, John Bray (1 Category Credit)

1:30pm-2:00pm Pesticide Record Keeping Requirements, Bill Ridon (1 Core Credit)

New risk management tool available to help producers achieve GAP certification WASHINGTON, D.C. — Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan, along with leaders from food and agriculture organizations, recently introduced a free online tool to help U.S. producers of all sizes achieve Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) harmonized standards and certification, helping to further expand economic opportunities for American agriculture.

USDA’s GAP audit verification program focuses on best agricultural practices to verify that farms are producing, and packers are handling and storing, fruits and vegetables in the safest manner possible to minimize food safety hazards. The free

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safety program is in the best interest of consumers, buyers, and the farmers themselves.

USDA is proud to have worked with private, public and non-profit partners to introduce this free tool to farmers seeking to gain certification as a Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) producer.”

The online tool, part of FamilyFarmed.org’s OnFarm Food Safety Project, is the first of its kind and was developed by a broad coalition of farm and produce industry partners. It is available at www.onfarmfoodsafety.org/ USDA’s GAP audit verification program, administered by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), focuses on best agricultural practices to verify that farms are producing fruits and vegetables in the safest manner possible to minimize risks of microbial food safety hazards. USDA’s voluntary audit based program verifies adherence to the recommendations made in the Food and Drug Administration’s Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables.

To generate a food safety plan using the tool, the user must answer a series of questions on topics including worker health and hygiene, agricultural water, previous land use, soil amendments and manure, animals and pest control, packinghouse activities, product transportation, agricultural chemicals, and field harvesting. In addition to helping farmers create a food safety plan, the tool offers farmers a full-set of record keeping templates to document their food safety efforts as well as useful food safety resources.

Once users have completed their farm’s food safety plan and compiled necessary documentation, they have the capacity to apply for GAP food safety certification, a process asked for by many larger buyers. Large buyers including Compass Group, SYSCO, and Chipotle Mexican Grill supported the project financially and with technical assistance.

Groups that participated in the development and review of the tool include: Chipotle Mexican Grill, Community Alliance with Family Farmers, Compass Group, Earthbound Farm, Farm Aid, FDA, NSF Agriculture, Produce Marketing Association, SYSCO, The Organic Center, Western Growers, Wallace Center at Winrock International, Wild Farm Alliance, University of California at Davis, United Fresh Produce Association, and USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

The Obama Administration, with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack’s leadership, has worked tirelessly to strengthen rural America, implement the Farm Bill, maintain a strong farm safety net, and create opportunities for America’s farmers and ranchers. U.S. agriculture is currently experiencing one of its best years in decades thanks to the productivity, resiliency, and resourcefulness of our producers. Today, net farm income is at record levels while debt has been cut in half since the 1980s.

Overall, American agriculture supports one in 12 jobs in the United States and provides American consumers with 86 percent of the food we consume, while maintaining affordability and choice.

The Obama Administration has aggressively worked to expand export opportunities and reduce barriers to trade, helping to push agricultural exports to record levels in 2011 and beyond. Strong agricultural exports are a positive contribution to the U.S. trade balance, support more than 1 million American jobs and boost economic growth.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 35

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online tool — developed by FamilyFarmed.org with funding from USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) — helps farmers design a customized manual to meet GAP harmonized standards and certification requirements, including USDA GAP standards and mitigate business risks by answering just a few questions.

“USDA believes that a strong farm safety net — including effective, market-based risk solutions for producers of all variety and size — is crucial to sustain the vitality of American agriculture,” said Merrigan. “Effectively managing risk is important to all producers, and having an acceptable food

Evaluating feed additives at the farm level

by Michael F. Hutjens, University of Illinois

Feeding high-producing cows continues to challenge dairy farmers and nutritionists. Also, dairy profit margins vary as milk prices and feed costs shift yearly. Feed costs represent the largest input cost to produce milk (estimated to be 35 to 50 percent). Feed additives are a group of feed ingredients that can cause a desired animal response in a nonnutrient role, such as pH shift, growth, or metabolic modifier. Several feed additives contain nutrients, such as sodium in sodium bicarbonate or protein in yeast culture. Feed additives are not a requirement, nor are they a guarantee for high productivity or profitability.

Evaluating Feed Additives at the Farm Level (4 R’s) Four factors can be considered to determine if a feed additive should be used: anticipated response, economic return, available research, and field responses. Response refers to expected performance changes the user could expect or anticipate when a feed additive is included. Several examples are listed below: • Higher milk yield (peak milk and/or milk persistency) • Increase in milk components (protein and/or fat) • Greater dry matter intake • Stimulate rumen microbial synthesis of protein and/or volatile fatty acid (VFA) production • Increase digestion in the digestive tract • Stabilize rumen environment and pH • Improve growth (gain and/or feed efficiency) • Reduce heat stress effects • Improve health (such as less ketosis, reduce acidosis, or improve immune response) Returns reflect the profitability of using a selected

Page 36 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

NTPA honoree a fan of soy biodiesel If tractor pulling represents the ultimate test for fuel, one recently crowned tractor-pull honoree says soy biodiesel passes with flying colors — as in the green, red, blue and orange tractors streaking down the track.

Bob Campbell, a puller and soybean farmer from western Ohio, recently won the 2011 Puller of the Year award in the National Tractor Puller Association (NTPA) Light Pro Stock class. The United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff sponsor this class to demonstrate biodiesel’s benefits.

Under this sponsorship, Light Pro Stock pullers use biodiesel in competition.

“Biodiesel’s a good product,” said Campbell.

“It runs better than normal diesel because the cetane rating’s higher. It also adds lubrication, which is important in a pulling tractor because you’re pumping about 10 times more fuel than in a stock tractor, and it lubricates the injection pump.”

USB Communications Program Chair Russ Carpenter commended all Light Pro Stock class competitors for supporting a fuel that can

be made from U.S. soybean oil.

“Competitors in the Light Pro Stock class have shown once again that biodiesel can meet the needs of even the most demanding of diesel users,” said Carpenter, a soybean farmer from Trumansburg, NY. “Congratulations to Bob on such a super year; I’m proud that the winner is a U.S. soybean farmer.”

Campbell farms in Rossburg, Ohio. He entered his tractor, a John Deere 4430 he calls the “Green Gangster,” in 16 events last season, won four of them and finished in the top five in most of the others.

The soybean checkoff funds biodiesel research and promotion efforts through the National Biodiesel Board to increase the availability and use of soy biodiesel.

Biodiesel qualifies as the United States’ first domestically produced advanced biofuel under the revised federal Renewable Fuels Standard.

This requirement calls for the use of at least 1 billion gallons of biodiesel annually beginning next year.

For more information on the United Soybean Board, visit www.unitedsoybean.org

additive. If milk improvement is the measurable response, a break-even point can be calculated. For example, a consultant recommends an additive that raises feed cost 10 cents per day. If milk is valued at 12 cents per .45 kg, every cow must produce .38 kg more milk to cover the added cost associated with the additive.

Another consideration is if all cows receive the additive, but only cows fresh less than 100 days respond. Responding cows must cover the additive costs for all cows (responsive and nonresponsive cows). One guideline is an additive should return $2 or more for each dollar invested to cover nonresponsive cows and field conditions that could minimize the anticipated response.

Research is essential to determine if experimentally measured responses can be expected in the field. Studies should be conducted under controlled and unbiased conditions, have statistically analyzed results (to determine whether the differences are repeatable), and have been conducted under experimental designs that would be similar to field situations.

Results obtained on individual farms are the economic payoff. Dairy managers and nutritionists must have data to compare and measure responses.

Several tools to measure results (to evaluate responses on a farm) include DHI milk records (peak milk, persistency, milk components, and milk curves), reproductive summaries, somatic cell count data, dry matter intake, heifer growth charts, body condition graphs, and herd health profiles, which will allow critical evaluation of a selected additive.

Take-Home Messages • Dairy managers must evaluate each feed additive based on the "4 R” approach.

• Feed manufacturers should add an additional “3 R's” when selecting feed additives.

• Each dairy manager must evaluate the choices of available feed additives and determine if a product is warranted.

This article is an excerpt from Feed Additives for Dairy Cattle. To view the article in its entirety, visit www.extension.org/pages/11774/feed-additivesfor-dairy-cattle.

Source: www.extension.org

Hello, I’m Peggy Your Country Folks Classified Ad Representative I’m here to make it easy for you to place your ad.

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Lee Publications, Country Folks Classified, PO Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

Worm compost can suppress plant disease, regulate nutrients, research finds

by Aaron Munzer Organic growers could soon have another weapon in their arsenal, courtesy of the humble worm.

Cornell researchers have found that vermicompost — the product if composting using various species of worms — is not only an excellent fertilizer, but could also help prevent a pathogen

Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology, Ph.D. student Allison Jack has shown that beneficial microbes in vermicompost can colonize a seed’s surface and protect it from infection by releasing a substance that interferes with the chemical signaling between the host and the pathogen.

“We know the microbes

that has been a scourge to greenhouse growers.

By teaming up with a New York composting business, they believe they have found an organic way to raise healthier plants with less environmental impact.

Building on previous research conducted by Professor Eric Nelson’s research group in the Department of Plant

are actually adding something the zoospores don’t like,” Jack said.

“Now we just have to find out what it is.”

Eric Carr, a master’s student in Nelson’s lab, is focusing on the suppressive qualities of vermicompost on a different stage of the life cycle of Pythium aphanidermatum, a pathogen whose mobile spores infect

seedlings, causing them to “damp off,” or wither, shortly after germination. The research, he said, helps contribute to opportunities to turn waste products like manure into important disease-suppressive soil amendments.

“At some point in our lives, we’re going to have to start using these types of natural resources and

Coming Soon - The newest publication in the Lee Publications, Inc. family of agricultural papers

GROWER

Wine & Grape

The NEWSPAPER for the wine and grape industry December 2011

Volume 1 Number 1

Newport Vineyards: Record harvest, grand expansion plans

In this issue

~ Page 2

Second generation returns to Shade Mountain Winery and Vineyards ~ Page 3

ng i m o C on So

Sustainable practices focus of grape annual convention ~ Page 5

New Publication for the wine and grape industry Page 4

Sustainable practices focus of grape annual convention Page 5

Calendar of events Page 7

Wine and Grape Grower will offer features, news and information on growing grapes, and making and selling wines.

As readers of Country Folks and Country Folks Grower you know the value of our publications as you run and improve your business.

If your current business or future plans include grapes or wine you can now have a publication with those same benefits for that branch of your business.

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You can reach us at P.O. Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428 or call 800-218-5586 • Fax 518-673-2381 • Email: dwren@leepub.com

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 37

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use them more efficiently; when that times comes, we’ll have a better idea of how it works,” Carr said.

Certain composts can suppress diseases, research has shown, but what is still unknown is which of the thousands of undescribed microbes in healthy compost are responsible for suppressing which diseases.

Another challenge in identifying suppressors and harnessing them is the variability of different composts.

To overcome this issue, Jack has teamed up with Tom Herlihy, who produces 2.5 million pounds of vermicompost a year through his Avon, NY, company, Worm Power. Because his dairy manure feedstock is regular and the process controlled, Herlihy’s end product is highly consistent, a quality that’s good for growers and for scientists like Jack.

Most seeds are treated in this country with chemicals,” Herlihy said.

“If we know our vermicompost can suppress Pythium, wouldn’t it be nice if we could come up with a vermicompostbased solution, rather than a chemical one?”

There could also be economic benefit if the Environmental Protection Agency, for example, allows Herlihy to market his product as a biopesticide.

A related project at Cornell focuses on vermicompost’s organic fertilizing capability. Horticulture assistant professor Neil Mattson was recently awarded a $203,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to study how organic growers can incorporate vermicompost into their potting mixes for better nutrient management. The three-year research project will begin this spring.

“What a lot of these growers tell us is fertility issues are the hardest to solve organically,” Mattson said. “This is a community that is doing a lot of great things. We want to make their production systems even more profitable. We want to promote production systems that promote healthy environments.”

Aaron Munzer is a freelance writer in Enfield, NY.

Country Folks

Page 38 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Proud to be the Official Publication of: • Northeast Dairy Herd Improvement Association • New York Ayrshire Club • New York Forage & Grasslands Council • New York Beef Cattlemen • New York Brown Swiss Association • New York Corn & Soybean Growers • New York Meat Goat Association • New York Milk Producers • New York Pork Producers • Empire Sheep Producers • FARMEDIC • Maine Beef Cattlemen • New England Milk Producers Association • New England Sheep & Wool Growers Association • Vermont Dairy Herd Improvement Association

Country Folks Your weekly connection to agriculture.

www.countryfolks.com 518-673-3237

Published by Lee Publications, Inc. PO Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

Make Crop Insurance Work for You Crop insurance has been paying claims to those who suffered losses this year. Did you get yours?

Buying crop insurance is a task that requires a knowledgeable purchaser, careful crafting to your farm operation and a well-informed, responsive crop insurance agent.

While selected counties have crop insurance available for some crops, a written agreement can be requested from your crop insurance agent for most coverage anywhere in NYS, if you have experience growing the crop or similar crop.

Crop insurance changes every year. Take another look. Soybean coverage is now available in 38 counties (all, with a written agreement), hay and pasture are now available statewide, pilot contract-grown fresh market green beans crop insurance is now available in 9 counties (but not other counties, since it is a pilot program).

CAT coverage is minimum crop insurance - and usually not sufficient to cover your cost of production, farm loan payments and replacement costs. Run the numbers and then insure to stay in business in the event of a crop failure.

Deadlines for purchasing or modifying a number of crop insurance policies: Onions February 1 Most Spring Planted Field Crops and Vegetables March 15 AGR-Lite (for first time buyers) March 15 (renewals Jan 31)

If you don’t have a crop insurance agent, lists are available on the web at http://www3.rma.usda.gov/apps/agents/.

New York Crop Insurance Education Risk Management Agency USDA New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets Sarah Johnston 1-800-554-4501 visit us at: www.agriculture.ny.gov/AP/Crop Insurance.html

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section A - Page 39

Contact a crop insurance agent to help you evaluate your risk exposure in all areas of your operation and create a risk management plan.

Page 40 - Section A • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Country y Folks

Section B

AUCTION SECTION and MARKET REPORTS Beginner Maple Producer Workshop set for Jan. 17 in Canandaigua A Beginner Maple Producer Workshop will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012, 6:30 -8:30 p.m., at Cornell Cooperative Extension Center, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua, NY. Stephen Childs, New York

State Extension Specialist in the Department of Natural Resources at Cornell University, will be the presenter. The workshop will cover a variety of aspects of maple syrup production including: why make maple

syrup, tree identification, tree health, tapping, sap collection and handling, boiling, energy efficiency, finishing and grading syrup, canning, marketing and regulations. This workshop is aimed at the begin-

ning maple producer and would be useful to the homeowner looking to tap a few trees in the backyard.

Class fee: $10 per family.

There will be a limited number of beginner kits for purchase at the workshop.

To register or for additional infor mation, contact Cornell Cooperative Extension at 585-394-3977 x 427 or 436 or e-mail: nea8@cor nell.edu with your name, address and phone number.

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December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 1

JANUARY 3-4-5, 2012

New farmer leadership takes soybean checkoff into the future Vanessa Kummer elected to lead United Soybean Board The national soybean checkoff just wrapped up its first 20 years, but the work doesn’t end there. As the United Soybean Board (USB) launches into the next 20 years, new U.S. soybean farmer-leaders take the reins and plan to continue the focus on creating profit opportunities for all U.S. soybean farmers.

USB farmer-directors elected Vanessa Kummer as chairperson on Dec. 6, during the checkoff’s annual meeting. The Colfax, ND, soybean

farmer will have a busy agenda leading the soybean checkoff’s implementation of a new strategic plan. Kummer looks at addressing recommendations from a farmer-driven assessment of USB and help lead the U.S. soybean industry. She will continue to shepherd the checkoff as it looks to increase soybean farmers’ profitability in an ever-evolving industry.

“It is our vision to make U.S. soybeans the leader in the global oilseed industry,” says

Kummer. “We plan to create and maintain partnerships to keep U.S. soybean farmers profitable.” Kummer is the first woman elected to chair the national soybean checkoff.

The team set to lead USB and help the soybean checkoff meet global customer demands with Kummer includes the following officers: • Jim Stillman, Emmetsburg, Iowa, as Vice Chair; •Jim Call, Madison,

MN, as Secretary; • Bob Haselwood, Berryton, KS, as Treasurer; • Lewis Bainbridge, Ethan, SD; • Russ Carpenter, Trumansburg, NY; • Sharon Covert, Tiskilwa, IL; • Jim Schriver, Montpelier, IN; • Jimmy Sneed, Hernando, MS; and • Rick Stern, Cream Ridge, NJ. Marc Curtis, a soybean farmer from Leland, MS,

will continue to serve on the leadership team as past chair.

“We have a great direction and a good team to make things happen,” adds Kummer. “We’re excited to help direct action that will increase soy’s value for all U.S. soybean farmers.”

In 2012, the soybean checkoff plans to focus on specific, new strategic objectives. They include directing soybean checkoff dollars to improve U.S. soybean meal and

oil, helping ensure U.S. soybean farmers have the freedom and adequate transportation infrastructure to operate and meeting the needs of customers of U.S. soy here at home and abroad. In addition, USB made supporting the biggest domestic user of soy, U.S. poultry, livestock and fish farmers, its top priority.

For more information on the United Soybean Board, visit www.unitedsoybean.org

Rise in milk production gives corn sales a boost too

Page 2 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Milk production is on the rise according to reports recently released by the National Agricultural Statistics Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. As the U.S. dairy industry is a major market for feed corn, distillers dried grains and corn silage, the National Corn Growers Association noted that this trend benefits not only dairy but also grain farmers across the country.

“It is important to value our relationship with dairy farmers, a constant and valued customer for our product,” said NCGA President Garry Niemeyer. “In 2011 alone, it is estimated that the U.S. dairy herd will consume more than 800 million bushels of corn. As they grow, so do we thus reemphasizing the importance of cooperation

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The report indicates that production increases came from both a per cow production increase of 16 pounds and a herd expansion of 108,000 head since this time in 2010.

Source: NCGA News of the Day, Monday, Dec. 19

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December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 3

TRADE SHOWS

AUC TION CALENDAR To Have Your Auction Listed, See Your Sales Representative or Contact David Dornburgh at 518-673-0109 • Fax 518-673-2381 Monday, December 26 • 8:00 AM: Half Acre Market, Ridge Rd., Auburn, NY. Drop Off Only.

John Kelley, Empire Livestock Marketing, 315-258-9752.

• 12:00 Noon: Pavilion Market, 357 Lake St., Pavilion, NY. Regular sale.

Empire Livestock Marketing, 585584-3033 • 12:30 PM: Dryden Market, 49 E. Main St., Dryden, NY. Calves. Phil Laug, Manager, Empire Livestock Marketing, 607-844-9104 • 12:30 PM: Hosking Sales, 6096 NYS Rt. 8, New Berlin, NY (30 miles S. of Utica & 6 miles N. of New Berlin). Misc. & Small Animals. 1 pm Dairy. We now sell Lambs, Goats, Pigs & Feeders immediately following Dairy. Calves & Cull Beef approx. 5-5:30 pm. Cull cows ave. .65 top cow .76 wt. 1670# $1269.20, Bulls up to .80, bull calves top $1.58. Lambs up to $2.02, Goats $250.00, piglets up to $32.50. Tom & Brenda Hosking 607-699-3637, 607-847-8800, cell 607-972-1770 or 1771 www.hoskingsales.com • 12:30 PM: Burton Livestock, Vernon, NY. Sheep, Goats, Pigs, Horses & Hay. 1:30 pm Calves & Beef. Dale Chambers, Manager, Empire Livestock Marketing, 315-

829-3105 • 2:00 PM: Gouverneur Market, 952 US Hwy. 11, Gouverneur, NY. Calves, Pigs, Goats, Dairy and Beef. Jack Bero, Mgr. & Auctioneer, Empire Livestock Marketing, 315322-3500, sale barn 315-287-0220 • 4:00 PM: Chatham Market, 2249 Rte. 203, Chatham, NY. Regular Sale. Harold Renwick, Mgr. & Auctioneer, Empire Livestock Marketing, 518-392-3321.

Tuesday, December 27 • 1:00 PM: Central Bridge Livestock, Rte. 30A, Central Bridge, NY. Dairy, sheep, goats, pigs and horses; 3:30 PM feeders followed by beef and calves. Tim Miller, Mgr. & Auctioneer, Empire Livestock Marketing, 518-868-2006, 800-321-3211.

Wednesday, December 28 • 8:00 AM: Half Acre Market, Ridge Rd., Auburn, NY. Drop Off Only.

John Kelley, Empire Livestock Marketing, 315-258-9752 • 9:30 AM: Tuscaloosa, AL. Large Logging, Construction, Truck Tractors, Dump & Utility Trucks, Support Equipment Auction. Online bidding available. Alex Lyon & Son, Sales Managers & Auctioneers, Inc., 315633-2944, 315-633-9544 • 1:00 PM: Finger Lakes Livestock, 3 mi. E. of Canandaigua, NY. Regu-

Page 4 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

B RO U G HT ADDISON COUNTY COMMISSION SALES Rte. 125, E. Middlebury, VT 05740 Sale every Monday & Thursday Specializing in Complete Farm Dispersals “A Leading Auction Service” In Vt. 800-339-2697 or 800-339-COWS 802-388-2661 • 802-388-2639 ALEX LYON & SON Sales Managers & Auctioneers, Inc. Jack Lyon Bridgeport, NY 315-633-2944 • 315-633-9544 315-633-2872 • Evenings 315-637-8912 AUCTIONEER PHIL JACQUIER INC. 18 Klaus Anderson Rd., Southwick, MA 01077 413-569-6421 • Fax 413-569-6599 www.jacquierauctions.com Auctions of Any Type, A Complete, Efficient Service philcorn@jacquierauctions.com AUCTIONS INTERNATIONAL 808 Borden Rd., Buffalo, NY 14227 800-536-1401 www.auctionsinternational.com BENUEL FISHER AUCTIONS Fort Plain, NY 518-568-2257 Licensed & Bonded in PA #AU005568

TO

BRZOSTEK’S AUCTION SERVICE INC. Household Auctions Every Wed. at 6:30 PM 2052 Lamson Rd., Phoenix, NY 13135 Brzostek.com 315-678-2542 or 800-562-0660 Fax 315-678-2579 THE CATTLE EXCHANGE 4236 Co. Hwy. 18, Delhi, NY 13753 607-746-2226 • Fax 607-746-2911 www.cattlexchange.com E-mail: daveramasr@cattlexchange.com A Top-Quality Auction Service David Rama - Licensed Real Estate Broker C.W. GRAY & SONS, INC. Complete Auction Services Rte. 5, East Thetford, VT 802-785-2161 DANN AUCTIONEERS DELOS DANN 3339 Spangle St., Canandaigua, NY 14424 585-396-1676 www.cnyauctions.com dannauctioneers.htm DELARM & TREADWAY Sale Managers & Auctioneers William Delarm & Son • Malone, NY 518-483-4106 E.J. Treadway • Antwerp, NY 13608 315-659-2407

lar livestock sale every Wednesday.

Finger Lakes Livestock Exchange, 585-394-1515. www.fingerlakeslivestockex.com • 1:30 PM: Dryden Market, 49 E. Main St., Dryden, NY. Phil Laug, Manager, Empire Livestock Marketing, 607-844-9104 • 1:30 PM: Burton Livestock, Vernon, NY. Calves followed by beef.

Dale Chambers, Manager, Empire Livestock Marketing, 315-829-3105 • 1:30 PM: Cherry Creek Market, 6732 Pickup Hill Rd., Cherry Creek, NY. Regular sale. Empire Livestock Market, 716-296-5041

Thursday, December 29 • 8:00 AM: Half Acre Market, Ridge Rd., Auburn, NY. Drop off only. John Kelley, Empire Livestock Marketing, 315-258-9752 • 12:30 PM: Pavilion Market, 357 Lake St., Pavilion, NY. Regular sale.

Empire Livestock Marketing, 585584-3033 • 1:15 PM: Burton Livestock, Vernon, NY. Dairy Cattle followed by Beef & Calves. Dale Chambers, Manager, Empire Livestock Marketing, 315-829-3105 • 2:00 PM: Gouverneur Market, 952 US Hwy. 11, Gouverneur, NY. Calves, Pigs, Goats, Dairy and Beef. Jack Bero, Mgr. & Auctioneer,

YO U

BY

Empire Livestock Marketing, 315322-3500, sale barn 315-287-0220 • 5:00 PM: Central Bridge Livestock, Rte. 30A, Central Bridge, NY. Calves, followed by Beef. Tim Miller, Mgr. & Auctioneer, Empire Livestock Marketing, 518-868-2006, 800-3213211.

Friday, December 30 • 10:00 AM: 398 Old Schuylerville Rd., Greenwich, NY (Washington Co. Fairgrounds). Rental Returns of New Holland, Kobelco, Cat Construction Equipment, Support, Attachments, Trucks & Trailers. Online bidding available. Alex Lyon & Son, Sales Managers & Auctioneers, Inc., 315-633-2944, 315-633-9544

Saturday, December 31 • 8:30 AM: Hoover Tractor, Mifflinburg, PA. 5th Annual New Years Sale. Accepting consignments. Fraley Auction Co., 570-546-6907 www.fraleyauction.com • 9:00 AM: 5253 Rt. 364, corner of Upper Hill Rd., 1 mi. E of Middlesex, NY. Melvin & Joan Bodine Retirement Auction. Farm is sold, selling farm equipment and shop tools.

Dann Auctioneers, Delos Dann, 585-396-1676 www.cnyauctions.com/dannauctioneers.htm

Monday, January 2

THESE

EMPIRE LIVESTOCK MARKETING LLC 5001 Brittonfield Parkway P.O. Box 4844, East Syracuse, NY 315-433-9129 • 800-462-8802 Bath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .607-776-2000 Burton Livestock . . . . . . . . . . .315-829-3105 Central Bridge . . . . . . . . . . . . .518-868-2006 Chatham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .518-392-3321 Cherry Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . .716-296-5041 Dryden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .607-844-9104 Farm Sale Division . . . . . . . . . .315-436-2215 Gouverneur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .315-287-0220 Half Acre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .315-258-9752 Pavilion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .585-584-3033 FINGER LAKES LIVESTOCK 3 miles east of Canandaigua, NY on Rt. 5 & 20.

Livestock Sale every Wednesday at 1 PM Feeder Cattle Sales monthly Horse Sales as scheduled 585-394-1515 • Fax 585-394-9151 www.fingerlakeslivestockex.com FRANKLIN USED EQUIPMENT SALES, INC. AUCTION SERVICE Franklin, NY 607-829-5172 Over 30 Years Experience in Farm Equipment Auctions Frank Walker, Auctioneer P.O. Box 25, Franklin, NY 13775 fwalker2@stny.rr.com

FRALEY AUCTION CO. Auctioneers & Sales Managers, Licensed & Bonded 1515 Kepner Hill Rd., Muncy, PA 570-546-6907 Fax 570-546-9344 www.fraleyauction.com GENE WOODS AUCTION SERVICE 5608 Short St., Cincinnatus, NY 13040 607-863-3821 www.genewoodsauctionserviceinc.com GOODRICH AUCTION SERVICE INC. 7166 St. Rt. 38, Newark Valley, NY 13811 607-642-3293 www.goodrichauctionservice.com H&L AUCTIONS Malone, NY Scott Hamilton 518-483-8787 or 483-8576 Ed Legacy 518-483-7386 or 483-0800 518-832-0616 cell Auctioneer: Willis Shattuck • 315-347-3003 HARRIS WILCOX, INC. Bergen, NY 585-494-1880 www.harriswilcox.com Sales Managers, Auctioneers, & Real Estate Brokers

AUC TION CALENDAR To Have Your Auction Listed, See Your Sales Representative or Contact David Dornburgh at 518-673-0109 • Fax 518-673-2381 • 12:30 PM: Hosking Sales, 6096 NYS Rt. 8, New Berlin, NY (30 miles S. of Utica & 6 miles N. of New Berlin). Monthly Fat Cow & Feeder Sale. A group of Jersey & Jersey X steers.Misc. & Small Animals. 1 pm Dairy. We now sell Lambs, Goats, Pigs & Feeders immediately following Dairy. Calves & Cull Beef approx. 5-5:30 pm. Tom & Brenda Hosking 607-699-3637, 607-8478800, cell 607-972-1770 or 1771 www.hoskingsales.com

Saturday, January 7 • 9:30 AM: Pittsburgh, PA. Very Large Job Completion Auction for Fleischner Excavation. Online bidding available. Alex Lyon & Son, Sales Managers & Auctioneers, Inc., 315-633-2944, 315-633-9544 • 10:00 AM: 3517 Railroad Ave., Alexander, NY. Z&M Ag & Turf Auction. Public Auction Sale of Farm Tractors, Machinery, Landscape, Tools, Lawn Tractor & Mowers. Roy Teitsworth, Inc., Auctioneers, 585243-1563. www.teitsworth.com

dairy’s. Outstanding cattle all ages.

1 pm Dairy. We now sell Lambs, Goats, Pigs & Feeders immediately following Dairy. Calves & Cull Beef approx. 5-5:30 pm. Tom & Brenda Hosking 607-699-3637, 607-8478800, cell 607-972-1770 or 1771 www.hoskingsales.com

Thursday, January 12 • Portland, OR. Major Job Completion Auction. Online bidding available. Alex Lyon & Son, Sales Managers & Auctioneers, Inc., 315633-2944, 315-633-9544

Monday, January 16 • Hosking Sales, 6096 NYS Rt. 8, New Berlin, NY (30 miles S. of Utica & 6 miles N. of New Berlin) .

Monthly Lamb, Sheep, Goat & Pig Sale. 1 pm Dairy. We now sell Lambs, Goats, Pigs & Feeders immediately following Dairy. Calves & Cull Beef approx. 5-5:30 pm. Tom & Brenda Hosking 607-699-3637, 607-847-8800, cell 607-972-1770 or 1771 www.hoskingsales.com

Monday, January 9

Wednesday, January 18

• 12:30 PM: Hosking Sales, 6096 NYS Rt. 8, New Berlin, NY (30 miles S. of Utica & 6 miles N. of New Berlin). Monthly Heifer Sale. 2 groups reg. cattle from overstocked

• 9:30 AM: Cherry Creek Market, 6732 Pickup Hill Rd., Cherry Creek, NY. Monthly Heifer Sale. Followed by our regular Wednesday sale at 1:30 pm. Empire Livestock Market-

HOSKING SALES Sales Managers & Auctioneer 6810 W. River Rd., Nichols, NY 13812 Tom & Brenda Hosking • AU 005392 Looking to have a farm sale or just sell a few?

Give us a call. Trucking Assistance. Call the Sale Barn or check out our trucker list on the Web site.

607-699-3637 Fax 607-699-3661 www.hoskingsales.com hoskingsales@stny.rr.com

ing, 716-296-5041

Friday, January 20

change.com www.cattlexchange.com

Saturday, March 31

• 12:00 Noon: 73 West First Ave., Windsor, PA. Public Auction of Windsor Meat Market. Operating business with retail meat sales & custom slaughtering. Leaman Auctions, 717-464-1128 or 610-6628149 www.leamanauctions.com

• Cobleskill, NY. 31st Annual Cobleskill Dairy Fashion Sale.

Hosted by SUNY Cobleskill Dairy Cattle Club. The Cattle Exchange, 607-746-2226, daveramasr@cattlexchange.com www.cattlexchange.com

Saturday, January 21

Saturday, April 14

• 10:00 AM: Gray’s Connecticut Valley Indoor Auction, White River Junction, VT. Townline Equipment Sales Used Equipment Auction.

C.W. Gray & Sons, Inc., 8027852161

• Syracuse, NY. New York Spring Holstein Sale. Held in conjunction with the New York Spring Dairy Carousel. The Cattle Exchange, 607-746-2226, daveramasr@cattlexchange.com www.cattlexchange.com

Monday, February 6 • Kissimmee, FL. Yoder & Frey Auctioneers, Inc., 419-865-3990 info@yoderandfrey.com www.yoderandfrey.com

Saturday, February 11 • 9:30 AM: Penn Yan, NY. Farm Machinery & farm smalls plus a few household goods for Ivan & Verna Zimmerman. L.W. Horst Auctioneer, 315-536-0954

Saturday, March 24

Saturday, April 21 • Quarryville, PA. Wea-Land Holsteins Complete Dispersal. Landis Weaver & Family, Owners. Co-managed by The Cattle Exchange & Stonehurst Farm. The Cattle Exchange, 607-746-2226, daveramasr@cattlexchange.com www.cattlexchange.com

Saturday, July 21

• Atglen, PA. The Gala at Glen Valley II. Hosted by Glen Valley Farm.

The Cattle Exchange, 607-7462226, daveramasr@cattlex-

• Middleburgh, NY. Reflections of Maple Downs Sale. Hosted by Maple Downs Farm II. The Cattle Exchange, 607-746-2226, daveramasr@cattlexchange.com

KELLEHER’S AUCTION SERVICE R.D. 1, Little Falls, NY 315-823-0089 We Buy or Sell Your Cattle or Equipment on Commission or Outright In Business Since 1948!

NORTHAMPTON COOP. AUCTION Whately, MA • Farmer Owned Since 1949 Livestock Commission Auction Sales at noon every Tues.

Consignments at 9 AM 413-665-8774

ROY TEITSWORTH, INC. AUCTIONEERS Specialist in large auctions for farmers, dealers, contractors and municipalities.

Groveland, Geneseo, NY 14454 585-243-1563 www.teitsworth.com

MEL MANASSE & SON, AUCTIONEERS Sales Managers, Auctioneers & Real Estate Brokers Whitney Point, NY Toll free 800-MANASSE or 607-692-4540 Fax 607-692-4327 www.manasseauctions.com

NORTHERN NEW YORK DAIRY SALES North Bangor, NY 518-481-6666 Sales Mgrs.: Joey St. Mary 518-569-0503 Harry Neverett 518-651-1818 Auctioneer John (Barney) McCracken 802-524-2991 www.nnyds.com

TOWN & COUNTRY AUCTION SERVICE Rt. 32 N., Schuylerville, NY 518-695-6663 Owner: Henry J. Moak

MIDDLESEX LIVESTOCK AUCTION 488 Cherry Hill Rd., Middlefield, CT 06455 Sale Every Monday Lisa Scirpo 860-883-5828 Sales Barn 860-349-3204 Res. 860-346-8550

PIRRUNG AUCTIONEERS, INC. P.O. Box 607, Wayland, NY 14572 585-728-2520 • Fax 585-728-3378 www.pirrunginc.com James P. Pirrung

LEAMAN AUCTIONS LTD 329 Brenneman Rd., Willow St., PA 17584 717-464-1128 cell 610-662-8149 auctionzip.com 3721 leamanauctions.com

NEW HOLLAND SALES STABLE Norman Kolb & David Kolb, Sales Mgrs.

Auctions Every Mon., Wed., & Thurs.

717-354-4341 Sales Mon., Wed. • Thurs. Special Sales

R.G. MASON AUCTIONS Richard G. Mason We do all types of auctions Complete auction service & equipment Phone/Fax 585-567-8844

L. W. HORST AUCTIONEER 1445 Voak Rd., Penn Yan, NY 14527 315-536-0954 • Fax: 315-536-6189

NORTHEAST KINGDOM SALES INC. Jim Young & Ray LeBlanc Sales Mgrs. • Barton, VT Jim - 802-525-4774 • Ray - 802-525-6913 neks@together.net

ROBERTS AUCTION SERVICE MARCEL J. ROBERTS Specializing in farm liquidations.

802-334-2638 • 802-777-1065 cell robertsauction@together.net

PA RT I C I PAT I N G A U C T I O N E E R S

WILLIAM KENT, INC. Sales Managers & Auctioneers Farm Real Estate Brokers • Stafford, NY 585-343-5449 www.williamkentinc.com WRIGHT’S AUCTION SERVICE 48 Community Dr., Derby, VT 14541 802-334-6115 www.wrightsauctions.com

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 5

HOSKING SALES-FORMER WELCH LIVESTOCK MARKET Tom & Brenda Hosking • AU 008392 P.O. Box 311, New Berlin, NY 13411 607-847-8800 • 607-699-3637 cell: 607-972-1770 or 1771 www.hoskingsales.com hoskingsales@stny,rr.com

WEEKLY MARKET REPORT MIDDLESEX LIVESTOCK AUCTION Middlefield, CT December 19, 2011 Calves: 45-60# .18-.22; 6175# .35-.45; 76-90# .55-.60; 91-105# .70-.75; 106# & up .80-.85.

Farm Calves: .9250-.1.0250 Started Calves: .25-.32 Veal Calves: .65-1.15 Open Heifers: .55-1 Beef Heifers: .68-.86 Feeder Steers: .71-1.10 Beef Steers: .60-.84 Stock Bull: 72.50-95 Beef Bull: .73-.79 Boars: 10-11 Butcher Hogs: one at 1.30 Feeder Pigs (ea): .65-.90 Sheep (ea): 62-170 Lambs (ea): 135-230 Goats (ea): 95-165 Kid Goats (ea): 57-120 Canners: up to 65.50 Cutters: 66.50-70 Utility: 71-74.25 Rabbits: 5-22 Chickens: 6-36 Ducks: 3-26 On the Hoof, Dollars/Cwt

Page 6 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

ADDISON COUNTY COMMISSION SALES East Middlebury, VT December 19, 2011 Cattle: 170 Calves: 207 Slaughter Cows: Breakers 75-80% lean 70-79; Boners 80-85% lean 69-82; Lean 8590% lean 45-73.50.

Feeder Calves: Hols. Bul.s 92-125# 70-140; 80-92# 7090; Vealers 100-120# 65-75; 90-100# 55-75; 80-90# 5575; 70-80# 50-67.50; 60-70# 30-59.

COSTA & SONS LIVESTOCK & SALES Fairhaven, MA December 14, 2011 Cows: Canners 44-61; Cutters 61.50-70; Util 71-80.50.

Steers: Ch 118-121.50; Sel 100-118.50; Hols. 90-93.

Heifers: Ch 114-120.50; Sel 91-117; Hols. 55-84.50.

Calves: 5-82/ea.

Feeders: 15-111 Sheep: 41-100 Lambs: 105-200 Goats: 48-201/ea.

Kids: 5-150/ea.

Sows: 40 Boars: 25 Hogs: 51-76/ea.

Feeder Pigs: 37-64/ea.

Chickens: 2-14 Rabbits: 2.50-13 Ducks: 1.50-18.50 * Sale every Wed. @ 7 pm.

FLAME LIVESTOCK Littleton, MA No report NORTHAMPTON COOPERATIVE AUCTION, INC Whately, MA December 20, 2011 Calves (/cwt): 0-60# 10-28; 61-75# 15-60; 76-95# 30-75; 96-105# 30-75; 106# & up 30-40.

Farm Calves: 80-175/cwt Feeders: 36-85/cwt Heifers: 38/cwt Canners: 25-61.50/cwt

Cutters: 62-73.50/cwt Utility: 74-80/cwt Sows: 25-49/cwt Hogs: 31/cwt Boars: 13.50-17/cwt Pigs: 11-48 ea.

Lambs: 125-300/cwt Sheep: 40-125/cwt Goats: 62.50-185 ea.

Rabbits: 1-19 ea.

Poultry: .50-13.50 ea.

Hay: 11 lots, 1.60-6.30/bale northamptonlivestockauction.homestead.com HACKETTSTOWN AUCTION Hackettstown, NJ December 20, 2011 Livestock Report: 47 Calves .11-1.30, Avg .63; 48 Cows .30-.82.5, Avg .65; 9 Easy Cows .34.5-.60, Avg .49; 23 Feeders 300-500# .40-1.18, Avg .85; 9 Heifers .46.5-.96, Avg .75; 11 Bulls .58-.85, Avg .76; 21 Steers .31-.99, Avg .75; 4 Hogs .56.58.5, Avg .57; 7 Roasting Pigs (ea) 13-18, Avg 41.78; 7 Sows .45-.52, Avg .50; 34 Sheep .02-1.58, Avg .88; 28 Lambs (ea) 30-82.50, Avg 75.43, 100 (/#) .50-2.66, Avg 1.79; 11 Goats (ea) 65-145, Avg 103.60; 13 Kids (ea) 65132.50, Avg 72.88; 18 Hides (ea) 3-11, Avg 4.67; 2 Llamas 65-120, Avg 92.50. Total 392.

Poultry & Egg Report: Heavy Fowl (/#) .40-.60; Pullets (ea) 13.50; Roosters (/#) .50-1.50; Bunnies (ea) 1-4; Rabbits (/#) 1.50-4.10; Pigeons (ea) 2-3; Guineas (ea) 10.

Grade A Eggs: White Jum XL 1.65; Brown Jum XL 1.901.95; L 1.89; M 1.15.

Hay, Straw & Grain Report: 15 Mixed 2.60-3.90; 3 Timothy 3.60-4.20; 15 Grass 2.804.10; 8 Mulch 1.70-2.60; 3 Oats 2.50-2.60; 2 Wheat Straw 2-4; 1 Rye Straw 3.10; 1 Corn Screening 8.75. Total 48.

CAMBRIDGE VALLEY LIVESTOCK MARKET, INC Cambridge, NY No report EMPIRE LIVESTOCK MARKET BURTON LIVESTOCK Vernon, NY December 15, 2011 Calves (/#): Hfrs. ..30-1; Grower Bulls over 92# .501.25; 80-92# .40-.85.

Cull Cows (/#): Gd .64-.78; Lean .45-.63; Hvy Beef .62.80.

Dairy Replacements (/hd): Fresh Cows 700-1500; Springing Cows 750-1400; Springing Hfrs. 800-1350; Bred Hfrs. 700-1100; Fresh Hfrs. 600-1300; Open Hfrs.

300-800; Started Hfrs. 100300.

Beef (/#): Feeders .40-.95; Hols. Sel .80-.90.

Lamb/Sheep (/#): Market .75-1.50; Slaughter Sheep .30-.55.

Goats (/hd): Billies 75-170; Nannies 70-100; Kids 20-80.

CENTRAL BRIDGE LIVESTOCK Central Bridge, NY December 13, 2011 Calves (/#): .Hfrs. 30-1; Grower Bulls over 92# .501.25; 80-92# .50-.80.

Cull Cows (/#): Gd .60-.78; Lean .45-.62; Hvy. Beef .55.78.

Dairy Replacements (/hd): Fresh Cows 600-1400; Springing Cows 750-1350; Springing Hfrs. 800-1300; Bred Hfrs. 650-1100; Fresh Hfrs. 800-1350; Open Hfrs.

300-700; Started Hfrs. 100400; Service Bulls 300-900.

Beef (/#): Feeders .50-1.06.

Lamb/Sheep (/#): Feeder 1.60-2.30; Market 1.50-2; Slaughter Sheep .30-.75.

Goats (/hd): Billies 75-200; Nannies 50-100; Kids 20-75.

Swine (/#): Feeder Pig (/hd) 15-35.

CHATHAM MARKET Chatham, NY December 19, 2011 Calves (/#): Grower over 92# .95-1.40; 80-92# .65-.80; Bob Veal .55-.62.

Cull Cows (/#): Gd .77.7550; Lean .64-.69; Hvy. Beef Bulls .78.

Beef (/price): Feeders 111116.

Lamb/Sheep (/#): Market 1.50-1.70; Slaughter Sheep .58-.64.

Goats (/#): Billies 1.10-1.30; Nannies .75-.90; Kids .65.80.

Swine (/#): Feeder Pig (ea) 40. *Buyers always looking for pigs.

CHERRY CREEK Cherry Creek, NY December 14, 2011 Calves (/#): Hfrs. 1.70; Grower Bulls over 92# 11.375; 80-92# .975-1; Bob Veal .20-.50.

Cull Cows (/#): Gd. .635.755; Lean .60-.75; Hvy. Beef Bulls .795-.835.

Dairy Replacements (/hd): Open Hfrs. 550-710.

Beef (/#): Feeders .50-1.37; Beef Ch .95-1.25; Hols. Ch .85-1.02.

Goats (/#): Kids .80-1.25.

Swine (/#): Hog .51-.56.

DRYDEN MARKET Dryden, NY December 19, 2011 Calves (/#): Grower Bull over 92# 1.10-1.60; 80-92# .751.15; Bob Veal .10-.40.

Cull Cows (/#): Gd .66-.76; Lean .58-.67; Hvy. Beef .68.71.

Beef (/#): Feeders .70-.86; Hols. Ch .94-1.04; Sel .82.89.

Goats (/hd): Billies 120-160; Nannies 60-90.

GOUVERNEUR LIVESTOCK Governeur, NY December 19, 2011 Calves (/#): Hfrs. .70-1.30; Grower Bulls over 92# .801.70; 80-92# .65-1.10; Bob Veal .25-.53.

Cull Cows (/#): Gd .63-.79;

Gouverneur

Canandaigua Pavilion Penn Yan Dryden Cherry Creek

Vernon New Berlin

Cambridge

Central Bridge

Bath

Chatham

Lean .55-.72; Hvy. Beef .75.855.

Beef (/#): Feeders .80-1.40.

PAVILION MARKET Pavilion, NY December 19, 2011 Calves (/#): Grower over 92# .90-1.425; 80-92# .40-1.10; Bob Veal .30-.40.

Cull Cows (/#): Gd .67-.79; Lean .59-.70.

Beef (/#): Hols. Ch .88-.98.

Goats (/hd): Nannies 132.50 BATH MARKET Bath, NY December 13, 2011 Calves (/#): Hfrs. .80-1; Grower Bulls over 92# 1.101.35; 80-92# .70-1; Bob Veal .20-.40.

Cull Cows (/#): Gd .66-.74; Lean .58-.65; Hvy. Beef Bulls .68-.70.

FINGER LAKES LIVESTOCK AUCTION Canandaigua, NY December 21, 2011 Dairy Cows for Slaughter: Bone Util 62-82; Canners/Cutters 45-78; HY Util 63-80.

Slaughter Calves: Bobs 95110# 40-67.50; 80-95# 3565; 60-80# 30-60.

Dairy Calves Ret. to Feed: Bull over 95# 70-160; 80-95# 65-157; 70-80# 60-90; Hfr calves 80-172.

Beef Steers: Ch grain fed 110-126; Sel 95-108; Hols.

Ch grain fed 88-103; Sel 7884.

Hogs: Slgh. US 1-3 63; Feeders US 1-3 15.

Lambs: Market Ch 80-100# 165.

Slaughter Sheep: M 70; Rams Ch over 130# 75.

Goats (/hd): L Nannies 82.50-160.

FINGER LAKES PRODUCE AUCTION Penn Yan, NY December 16, 2011 Hay: 50-170, 1st cut; 165305, 2nd cut; 265, 3rd cut.

Straw: 135-230 Firewood: 35-45 Produce Mon. @ 10 am, Wed-Fri. @ 9 am sharp!

FINGER LAKES HAY AUCTION Penn Yan, NY No report HOSKING SALES New Berlin, NY December 19, 2011 Cattle: Dairy Cows for Slaughter Bone Util .60-.76; Canners/Cutters .58-.65; Easy Cows .60 & dn.

Bulls: Bulls/Steers .65-.80.

Calves: Bull Calves 96-120# .80-1.58; up to 95# .10-.95; Hols. under 100# 1.

Lambs: 30-70# 1.47-2.02; 75# & up 1.65-1.80; Cull Sheep .5250-.60.

Piglets: 27.50-32.50.

BELKNAP LIVESTOCK AUCTION Belknap, PA December 14, 2011 Slaughter Steers: Ch 2-3 1168-1534# 117-122; Sel 1-2 1186-1466# 105.50-115.50.

Slaughter Heifers: Ch 2-3 1266-1426# 116.50-120; Sel 1-2 1105-1192# 103.50-111.

Slaughter Cows: Prem.

Whites 65-75# lean 77.50; Breakers 75-80% lean 7275.50; Boners 80-85% lean 69-72, lo dress 63-65; Lean 85-90% lean 62.50-67, hi dress 69, lo dress 59-61.

Slaughter Bulls: YG 1 11722016# 74-75; YG 2 11301700# 66.50-71.

Feeder Cattle: Steers M&L 1 300-400# 143-144; 600-700# 112.50-120; Hfrs. M&L 1 300-400# 108-119; 500-700# 95-107.50; Bulls M&L 1 400500# 135-139; M&L 2 500600# 105.50-114.

Feeder Calves: No. 1 Hols.

Bulls 95120# 105-112.50; No. 2 90-130# 90-102.50; No. 3 90-120# 47.50-77.50.

Vealers: 65-120# 17.50-40.

Slaughter Hogs: Barrows & Giltsd 45-50% lean 382# 79; Sows US 1-3 300-500# 4047; Boars 500-700# 2224.50.

Feeder Pigs: 60# 46/hd; 110-150# 45-60/cwt.

Slaughter Lambs: Ch 1-2 60-80# 170-185; Gd & Ch 23 40-70# 152.50-165; Year-

lings 116136# 91-131; Ewes Util 1-2 152-294# 48-70.

Slaughter Goats (/hd): Kids Sel 2 40-50# 87.50; Nannies Sel 1 95-100# 102.50-104; Sel 3 70-100# 47.50-52.50; Billies Sel 1 90# 140; Sel 2 110# 139; Wethers Sel 1 95100# 140-170; Sel 2 80-110# 74-80.

BELLEVILLE LIVESTOCK AUCTION Belleville, PA December 14, 2011 Slaughter Cows: Prem.

Whites 65-75# lean 73.5075.50; Breakers 75-80% lean 67-72.75, lo dress 61-66.50; Boners 80-85% lean 61.5067, hi dress 67-72.25, lo dress 61.75; Lean 85-90% lean 56.50-61.75, hi dress 64.50, lo dress 49.75-55.

Slaughter Bulls: YG 1 13961574# 73-76.25, lo dress 2095# 64.25.

Feeder Cattle: Steers M&L 2 566-695# 69-71.50; L 3 Hols. 268# 69; 638-800# 6369.50; Hfrs. M&L 2 390495# 74-80; 784# 78.50; Herefords 390# 76.

Feeder Calves: No. 1 Hols.

Bulls 94-116# 110-138; 92# 108; No. 2 94-118# 80-104; 88-90# 75-92; No. 3 78-94# 54-75; No. 2 Hols. Hfrs. 8090# 40-90/hd; Beef X 102# 100;Vealers Util 64-130# 2574.

Slaughter Hogs: Barrows & Gilts 49-54% lean 310-330# 180-265/hd; 45-50% lean 320# 175/hd; Sows US 1-3 400# 135/hd; Boars 400# 135/hd.

Feeder Pigs: US 1-3 15-55# 10-32; 70-150# 31-90.

Slaughter Sheep: Lambs Ewes Gd 2-3 144# 70; Slaughter Rams 204# 60.

Slaughter Goats: Kids Sel 2 30-40# 55-77.50; 45-60# 82.50-117.50; 65-75# 87.50120; Nannies Sel 3 170# 75; Billies Sel 2 130-140# 165177.50.

CARLISLE LIVESTOCK MARKET, INC Carlisle, PA December 20, 2011 Slaughter Cattle: Steers Ch

B7; 10.25"; 14"; Black; Composition: EPS Ads:CF: CW PDF pages:b7.pdf; -; -; -; -

WEEKLY MARKET REPORT

1.375-1595# 124-130.50; 2 Std 109-110; Hols. & Jerseys Ch & Pr 1 Jersey 1445# 125.50; 1070-1610# 113115; Ch 1290-1580# 107112.50; 1040-1785# 90-105; Hfrs. Sel & Lo Ch 120501590# 109-117.

Slaughter Cows: Boners 66-73.50; Lean 67-73; Big Middle/lo dress/lights 54.5067; Shelly 54 & dn.

Bulls: 1235-1420# 73.50-82.

Feeder Cattle: Steers 9301175# 101.50-115; Hols.

1135-1290# 78-89.50; Bulls L 1 300-520# 78-105; 185285# 86-106; one RWF 980# 80.

Calves Ret. to Farm: Hols.

Bulls No. 1 95-120# 130-137; No. 2 90-145# 110-130; No. 3 75-115# 70-105; cpl Util 65 & dn.

Swine: Hogs 250-290# 6567; 300-315# 58-60; US 2-4 61.50-63.50; Sows 350-465# 50-57; 485-570# 50.5052.50; Boners 44-49.50; Boars 600# 31.

Goats (/hd): L Billies 205232; Nannies 110-140; Fancy Kids 132-152; Fleshy Kids 85-126; Small/thin/bottle 582.

Sheep: (all wts.) 66-127 Sale every Tuesday * 5 pm for Rabbits, Poultry & Eggs * 6 pm for Livestock starting with calves. * Special Fed Cattle Sales Dec. 20 & 27. * Breeding School - Buying Open Cows Tues., Dec. 20.

CARLISLE LIVESTOCK MARKET, INC Carlisle, PA Small Animal Sale December 20, 2011 Rabbits/Bunnies: 1-11 Chickens/Chicks: .25-5 Quail: 2 Guinea: 7 Love Birds: 7-14 Turkey: 7-17 Ducks: 2-13 Pigeons: 2-5.50 Geese: 20 All animals sold by the piece.

Sale starts at 5 pm.

Mercer

Jersey Shore

New Wilmington

Dewart Leesport Belleville Homer City

New Holland Carlisle Lancaster Paradise

Eighty-Four 100-130# in strong demand for this sale.

DEWART LIVESTOCK AUCTION MARKET, INC Dewart, PA December 19, 2011 Cattle: 141. Hols. Steers 1326-1486# 103-105.50.

Cows: Prem. White 7073.75; Breakers 66-70; Boners 60.60-70; Lean 52-63.50.

Bulls: 1194-2044# 70.5075.50.

Feeder Steers: 834-1088# 85-91.

Feeder Heifers: 380-500# 63-66; 596-716# 62-80.

Feeder Bulls: 400-500# 8288; 500-700# 72-84.

Calves: 126. Bull Calves No. 1 94-122# 135-147; 90-92# 117-122; 82-88# 90-102; No. 2 94-126# 120-140; 90-92# 90-97; 80-88# 80-95; No. 3 94-124# 75-110; 80-92# 6587; Hfr. Calves No. 1 88-110# 160-215; No. 2 78-102# 125160; Util 12-70.

Sheep: Lambs Ch 2-3 4270# 212.50-220; 78-86# 190205; 92-106# 172.50-180.

Kid Goats (/hd): Sel 1 90120# 125-160; Sel 2 under 20# 21-37; 30-40# 42-60; Nannies 80-100# 55-75.

Feeder Pigs: 30-40# 31-52; 50-60# 44-47.

Hogs: 318-444# 42-61.

Hay: 29 lds, 110-290/ton.

Straw: 6 lds, 145-200/ton.

Earcorn: 3 lds, 170-200/ton.

Firewood: 16 lds, 45-97/ld.

EIGHTY FOUR LIVESTOCK AUCTION New Holland, PA December 19, 2011 Slaughter Steers: Sel 12 965-1170# 99-107; Hols. Sel 1-2 1220-1500# 82-90.

Slaughter Cows: Prem.

Whites 65-75% lean 7879.50; Breakers 75-80% lean 74.50-77.50, hi dress 79.50, lo dress 72.50; Boners 8085% lean 70-74.50, lo dress 68.50-69; Lean 85-90% lean 64.50-69, hi dress 70-71.50, lo dress 61-63.50.

Slaughter Bulls: YG 1 11401985# 82-88;YG 2 1445# 64.

Steers: M&L 3 500-700# 9395.

Heifers: M&L 1 300-500# 120-126; 500-700# 109122.50; 800-900# 102; M&L 2 300-500# 90-102.50; 500700# 82-97.50.

Bulls: M&L 1 300-500#

122.50-127.50, one fancy 152.50; 500-600# 115-125; M&L 2 250-300# 137.50140; 300-500# 102.50-119; 500-700# 92.50-107.50.

Feeder Calves: No. 1 Hols.

Bulls 90-120# 125-142.50; No. 2 90-130# 95-115; No. 3 85-120# 40-87.5; Beef 75200# 114-142.50; Vealers Util 65-120# 27.50-35.

Feeder Pigs: US 1-3 50# 35/hd.

Slaughter Lambs: Ch 1-3 50-60# 190-225; 60-80# 186200; 100-110# 160-165; Ewes Util 1-2 153-285# 4575.

Slaughter Goats: Kids Sel 1 40# 77.50; Sel 2 30-50# 30-40; Nannies Sel 1 105# 92.50/cwt; Sel 2 105# 75; Billies Sel 1 85# 155.

GREENCASTLE LIVESTOCK AUCTION Greencastle, PA December 15, 2001 Slaughter Cows: Prem.

Whites 65-75% lean 73.5075; Breakers 75-80% lean 66-71.50, hi dress 71.5072.50; Boners 80-85% lean 62-67, hi dress 67-68.50; Lean 85-90% lean 57-61.50, hi dress 61.50-64.50, lo dress 48-53.

Slaughter Bulls: YG 1 10981346# 73.50-74.50.

Feeder Calves: Hols. Bull Calves No. 1 96-124# 100110; 80-94# 50-75; No. 2 94124# 70-100; No. 3 94-114# 40-65.

Utility: 66-130# 10-50.

INDIANA FARMERS LIVESTOCK AUCTION Homer City, PA December 15, 2011 Slaughter Steers: Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 1532# 123; Ch 2-3 1426# 115; Sel 1-2 11641210# 106; Hols. Sel 1-2 1530# 89.50.

Slaughter Heifers: Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 1334# 123.

Slaughter Cows: Prem.

Whites 65-75% lean 78.50, hi dress 83.50, lo dress 74.50; Breakers 75-80% lean 72.50-80, lo dress 65.50; Boners 80-85% lean 68.5072.50, hi dress 73.50, lo dress 66.50-67.50; Lean 8590% lean 63.50-66.50, hi dress 69, lo dress 58-59.

Slaughter Bulls: YG 1 12861698# 74-81; YG 2 12641640# 67.50-72.

Feeder Cattle: Steers M&L 1 400# 120; M&L 2 400-500# 105; Hfrs. M&L 1 300-500# 105-112.50; M&L 2 300-500# 99-102.50; 500-700# 93-95; Bulls M&L 1 300-500# 121122.50; 500# 108.

Holstein Bulls: No. 1 90125# 115-132.50; No. 2 90125# 105-115; No. 3 85-120# 60-90.

Vealers: 70-120# 20-40.

Boars: 300# 34.

Feeder Pigs: US 1-3 134162# 34-35/cwt.

Slaughter Sheep: Ch 1-2 80-100# 177.50-190; 100130# 157.50-170.

Slaughter Yearlings: 125# 145-150.

Slaughter Ewes: Util 1-2 178# 70.

Slaughter Goats: Kids Sel 2 40-50# 30-42.50; Billies Sel 2 110# 100.

KUTZTOWN HAY & GRAIN AUCTION Kutztown, PA December 17, 2011 Alfalfa: 6 lds, 210-360 Mixed Hay: 13 lds, 180-280 Timothy: 5 lds, 160-260 Grass: 24 lds, 135-250 Straw: 6 lds, 180-210 Firewood: 7 lds, 30-65 Oats: 2 lds, 5.50-5.75 Clover: 1 ld, 180 Corn Fodder: 1 ld, 115 LANCASTER WEEKLY CATTLE SUMMARY New Holland, PA December 16, 2011 Slaughter Steers: Hi Ch & Pr 3-4 1285-1620# 126.50130; Ch 2-3 1115-1600# 122-127.50; Sel 2-3 11551425# 115-118; Hols. Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 1300-1555# 108116; Ch 2-3 1290-1635# 102-112.

Slaughter Heifers: Ch 2-3 1050-1425# 119-123.

Slaughter Cows: Prem Whites 65-75% lean 70.5075; Breakers 75-80% lean 68-72, hi dress 72-75, lo dress 62-66; Boners 80-85% lean 63-68, hi dress 6970.50, lo dress 59-62.50; Lean 85-90% lean 57-64, hi dress 65.50-68.50, lo dress 52-57.

Slaughter Bulls: Thurs. YG 1 865-1835# 72-76.50, hi dress 1350-1460# 87-94.

Graded Bull Calves: Thurs.

No. 1 114-128# 107-115; 94-

112# 120-124; 80-92# 75-90; No. 2 94-118# 115-121; 8092# 75-76; No. 3 80-130# 7484; 72-78# 26; Util 60-110# 20-32; Hols. Hfrs. No. 1 9095# 130-170; No. 2 85-120# 90-120.

LEBANON VALLEY LIVESTOCK AUCTION Fredericksburg, PA December 13, 2011 Slaughter Cows: Breakers 75-80% lean 64-69, lo dress 61.50-63.50; Boners 80-85% lean 55-60; Lean 85-90% lean 51.50-54.50, lo dress 44-49.

Feeder Calves: No. 1 95120# 120-145; No. 2 95-115# 100-120; No. 3 80-110# 60105; Util 70-105# 20-60.

LEESPORT LIVESTOCK AUCTION Leesport, PA December 16, 2011 Slaughter Steers: Hi Ch & Pr 3-4 1400# 128; Ch 2-3 1275-1415# 120.50-122.50; Hols. Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 15001510# 110.50-116; Ch 2-3 1315-1475# 99.50-103.

Slaughter Cows: Prem.

White 65-75% lean 72.5074.50; Breakers 75-80% lean 65.50-70, hi dress 70.50-72; Boners 80-85% lean 62.5067.50; Lean 85-90% lean 56.50-62, lo dress 50-54.

Slaughter Bulls: YG 1 1245# 77, lo dress 12401260# 65-68.

Feeder Cattle: Steers M&L 1 500-700# 129-131; L 3 500700# 56-61; Bulls M&L 2 300-500# 81-89; 500-700# 60-72.

Vealers: Util 70-110# 10-50.

Feeder Calves: Hols. Bulls No. 1 95-120# 130-147.50; 85-90# 80-100; No. 2 95130# 100-130; No. 3 80120# 50-100; Hols. Hfrs. No. 2 80-90# 70-100.

Lambs: Ch 2-3 40-60# 155165; 60-80# 169-199, few to 212.50; 80-100# 165-182; 100-120# 177.50-192.50.

Goats: Kids Sel 1 40-60# 85124; Sel 2 40-60# 5974;Nannies Sel 1 80-130# 112.50-132; Sel 2 50-80# 5674; Billies Sel 2 100-150# 91110; Wethers Sel 1 125# 141; Sel 2 75# 56.

MIDDLEBURG LIVESTOCK AUCTION Middleburg, PA December 13, 2011 Slaughter Steers: Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 1305-1480# 127.50130; Ch 2-3 1205-1565# 122-127.50; full YG 4-5 11651535# 118-120.50; Sel 1-3 1075-1395# 115-122; Hols.

Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 1320-1505# 107.50-112; Ch 2-3 12751570# 102-107.50; Sel 1-3 1350-1500# 96-101.

Slaughter Heifers: Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 1260-1450# 124-126; Ch 2-3 1165-1315# 119.501254; full YG 4-5 1145-1470# 115-119; Sel 1-3 1080-1215# 113.50-118.

Slaughter Cows: Breakers 75-80% lean 67-70, lo dress 63.50-66; Boners 80-85% lean 62.50-66.50, hi dress

66.50-67.50, lo dress 59-61; Lean 85-90% lean 57-62.50, lo dress 50-56.

Slaughter Bulls: YG 1 12502030# 74-82.50, 2135-2190# 65-72.50; hi dress 1225# 85; 2080# 84, lo dress 1402070# 60-73.

Feeder Steers: M&L 1 450480# 125-139; 517-605# 117-127; M&L 2 415-437# 90-100; 757# 100; Herefords 480-670# 77-87; L 3 Hols.

625-1105# 65-86.

Feeder Heifers: M&L 1 375497# 102-114; 520# 112; M&L 2 300-450# 80-115; 540-670# 95-102; Herefords 280-545# 77-90.

Feeder Bulls: M&L 1 400450# 117-127; 590-722# 94111; M&L 2 275-415# 85117; 565-790# 84-92; Herefords 510-607# 82-85; L 3 Hols. 245-350# 65-70; 545730# 60-72.

Feeder Calves: Hols. Bulls No. 1 95-120# 120-160; No. 2 95-120# 92-120; 80-90# 80102; No. 3 80-120# 65-90; Hols. Hfrs. No. 2 80-120# 70130; Beef X 95# 110; Vealers Util 65-120# 22-70.

Slaughter Hogs: Barrows & Gilts 49-54% lean 242-278# 66-70.50; 280-295# 6770.50; 302-355# 66.50-69; 45-50% lean 245-276# 6568.50; 285-300# 65.50-68; 310-330# 63.50-68.50.

Sows: US 1-3 405-450# 5455; 545-630# 53-57.

Boars: 425-585# 27-30 Jr. Boars 250-365# 40-51.50.

Feeder Pigs: US 1-3 20-55# 17-40; 70# 34.

Slaughter Sheep: Lambs Ch 2-3 38-65# 175-235; 73100# 142-182; 110-125# 125-140; Ewes Gd 2-3 95190# 65-85; Rams 250# 75.

Slaughter Kids: Sel 1 4060# 95-115; 65-100# 115167; Sel 2 under 20# 15-40; 20-40# 50-92; 45-60# 65110; 65-75# 85-122; Sel 3 20-40# 15-47; 45-55# 35-65.

Slaughter Nannies: Sel 1 110-130# 102-115; Sel 2 90140# 70-105; Sel 3 80-120# 40-72; Billies Sel 1 150-180# 185-215; Sel 2 130# 120.

Wethers: Sel 1 130# 142.

MORRISON’S COVE LIVESTOCK AUCTION Martinsburg, PA December 19, 2011 Cattle: 128 Cows: Steers Ch 110-117; Gd 102-108; Hfrs. Ch 108115; Gd 98-107; Util & Comm. 63-73; Canner/lo Cutter 62 & dn.

Bullocks: Gd & Ch 72-78 Bulls: YG 1 65-74 Feeder Cattle: Steers 85110; Bulls 75-100; Hfrs. 75105.

Calves: 106. Ch 95-110; Gd 75-90; Std 15-75; Hols. Bulls 90-130# 75-140; Hols. Hfrs.

90-130# 100-150.

Hogs: 43. US 1-2 75-82; US 1-3 70-75; Sows US 1-3 4555; Boars 22-32.

Sheep: 37. Ch Lambs 160180; Gd 135-150; SI Ewes 60-75.

Goats: 30-110

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 7

CARLISLE LIVESTOCK MARKET, INC State Graded Feeder Pig Sale Carlisle, PA December 16, 2011 US 1-2 (306 hd): 5 190# 270; 16 23-29# 172-264; 38 31-39# 164-214; 2 325# 120; 75 45-49# 157-170; 32 5459# 150-158; 40 74-78# 117127; 92 93-108# 101-113; 6 91# w/tails 82.

US 2 (102 hd): 56 49-55# 141-155; 15 62-71# 111-149; 9 67# w/tails 90; 22 85-95# 101-107.

US 2-3 (49 hd): 13 28.5# 250; 4 20# /tails 70; 12 3340# 140-149; 20 48# 160.

No Grade (10 hd): 4 275276# 276; 6 70# 130.

As Is (18 hd(: 3 15-20# 2066; 5 33# 122; 2 40-45# 20; 5 48-55# 51-67; 2 60-65# 5-10; 1 70# 101. *Next Sale Fri., Jan 13 for Chinese New Year 28-42#,

Pennsylvania Markets

WEEKLY MARKET REPORT MORRISON’S COVE HAY REPORT Martinsburg, PA December 19, 2011 Alfalfa: 180-200 Alfalfa/Grass: 230-270 Grass: 190-260 Mixed Hay: 180-240 Round Bales: 125-175 Lg. Sq. Bales: 155-205 Straw: 165-200 Wood: 45-70 Hay Auction held every Monday at 12:30 pm.

MORRISON’S COVE LIVESTOCK, POULTRY & RABBIT REPORT Martinsburg, PA December 19, 2011 Roosters: 2-6 Hens: 1-2.25 Banties: .25-2 Guineas: 3.50-4.25 Bunnies: 1-6.25 Rabbits: 7-13.50 Auction held every Monday at 7 pm.

Page 8 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

NEW HOLLAND SALES STABLES New Holland, PA December 15, 2011 Steers: Hi Ch & Pr 3-4 12851620# 126.50-129.50; Ch 23 1155-1600# 122-126; Sel 2-3 1278-1490# 115-119; Hols. Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 13001555# 108-112; Ch 2-3 1305-1635# 102-107; Sel 2-3 1455-1515# 96-99.

Slaughter Heifers: Ch 2-3 1050-1425# 119-123.

Slaughter Cows: Prem.

White 65-75% lean 70-74, hi dress 74-76, lo dress 64-69; Breakers 75-80% lean 66-70, hi dress 71-74, lo dress 6566; Boners 80-85% lean 6367, hi dress 67-71, lo dress 57-62; Lean 88-90% lean 5861.50, hi dress 62.50-65, lo dress 52-56.

Slaughter Bulls: YG 1 8651835# 72-76.50, very hi dress 87-94.

Graded Bull Calves: No. 1 114-128# 107-115; 94-112# 120-124; 80-92# 75-90; No. 2 94-118# 115-121; 80-92# 7576; No. 3 80-130# 74-84; 7278# 26; Util 60-110# 20-32.

Holstein Heifer Calves: No. 1 90-95# 130-170; No. 2 85120# 90-120.

NEW HOLLAND PIG AUCTION New Holland, PA No report NEW HOLLAND SHEEP & GOATS AUCTION New Holland, PA December 19, 2011 Slaughter Lambs: Non-traditional markets: Wooled & Shorn Ch & Pr 2-3 40-60# 240-280, new crop 40-60# 250-320; 60-80# 180-240, 70-80# Whiteface 224; 8090# 180-200; 90-110# 170190; 110-130# 168-184; 130150# 150-170; Wooled & Shorn Ch 2-3 40-60# 190220; 60-80# 165-190; 80-90# 160-180; 90-110# 158-176; Fleshy 156-160; 110-130# 140-160; 130-150# 147-150.

Slaughter Ewes: Gd 2-3 M flesh 120-160# 83-103; 160200# 78-93; 200-300# 74-94; Util 1-2 thin flesh 120-160# 64-84.

Slaughter Kids: Sel 1 4060# 88-116; 60-80# 110-140; 80-90# 124-144; 90-100# 122-139; 100-110# 134150; 110-120# 145-160; Sel 2 50-60# 80-100; 60-80# 88120; 80-90# 105-122; 90100# 111-131; 100-110# 118-138; Sel 3 30-40# 35-52; 40-60# 51-78; 60-80# 70-90; 80-90# 79-99.

Slaughter Nannies/Does: Sel 1 80-130# 112-132; 130180# 133-153; Sel 2 80-130# 105-121; 130-180# 116-130; Sel 3 50-80# 66-86; 80-130# 90-110.

Slaughter Bucks/Billies: Sel 1 100-150# 220-240; 150-200# 285-305; Sel 2 100-150# 175-195; 150-250# 216-235.

NEW WILMINGTON LIVESTOCK AUCTION New Wilmington, PA No report NEW WILMINGTON PRODUCE AUCTION, INC.

New Wilmington, PA No report PA DEPT OF AGRICULTURE Grain Market Summary Compared to last week corn sold steady to .05 lower, wheat sold steady to .05 lower, barley sold .10 to .15 lower, Oats sold .05 to .10 lower & Soybeans sold .10.15 higher. EarCorn sold 2-4 lower. All prices /bu. except ear corn is /ton.

Southeastern PA: Corn No. 2 Range 6.55-6.84, Avg 6.70, Contracts 5.56-5.60; Wheat No. 2 Range 5.547.04, Avg 6.39, Contracts 5.75-5.91; Barley No. 3 Range 4.70-6.50, Avg 5.56, Contracts 4.50; Oats No. 2 Range 4.25-5, Avg 4.58; Soybeans No 2 Range 10.55-10.80, Avg 10.69, Contracts 11-11.05; EarCorn Range 190-200, Avg 195.

Central PA: Corn No. 2 Range 6-7, Avg 6.57; Wheat 5.6; Barley No. 3 Range 4.75-5.25, Avg 5; Oats No. 2 Range 3.60-4.30, Avg 3.96; Soybeans No. 2 Range 1010.60, Avg 10.44; EarCorn Range 195-220, Avg 207.50.

South Central PA: Corn No. 2 Range 6.35-6.58, Avg 6.52; Wheat No. 2 Range 5.60-6.60, Avg 6; Barley No. 3 Range 3.80-5.30, Avg 4.45; Oats No. 2 Range 3-4, Avg 3.55; Soybeans No. 2 Range 10.10-11.60, Avg 10.73; EarCorn Range 180.

Lehigh Valley Area: Corn No. 2 Range 6.50-6.95, Avg 6.68; Wheat No. 2 Range 6.75; Barley No. 3 Range 4.95; Oats No. 2 Range 4.55; Soybeans No. 2 Range 10.30-11.75, Avg 10.77; Gr. Sorghum Range 5.75.

Eastern & Central PA: Corn No. 2 Range 6-7, Avg 6.62, Month Ago 6.85, Year Ago 5.92; Wheat No. 2 Range 5.54-7.04, Avg 6.21, Month Ago 6.16, Year Ago 6.84; Barley No. 3 Range 3.80-

6.50, Avg 4.86, Month Ago 4.96 Year Ago 3.72; Oats No. 2 Range 3-5, Avg 3.99, Month Ago 4.13, Year Ago 2.72; Soybeans No. 2 Range 10.10-11.60, Avg 10.66, Month Ago 10.95, Year Ago 12.30; EarCorn Range 180220; Avg 194.16 Month Ago 196.66, Year Ago 140.20.

Western PA: Corn No. 2 Range 5.53-6.50, Avg 6.01; Wheat No. 2 Range 5.24; Oats No. 2 3.20-4.90, Avg 3.96; Soybeans No. 2 10.65.

PA DEPT OF AGRICULTURE Weekly Livestock Summary December 9, 2011 Slaughter Steers: Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 127-131.50; Ch 1-3 120-127.50; Sel 1-2 115-120; Hols. Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 108116; Ch 2-3 102-107; Sel 1-2 95-100.

Slaughter Heifers: Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 124-127.50; Ch 1-3 119-124; Sel 1-2 112-118.

Slaughter Cows: Breakers 75-80% lean 66-73; Boners 80-85% lean 62-67; Lean 8590% lean 57-62.

Slaughter Bulls: hi dress 88-103; Avg dress 74-81; lo dress 67-72.

Feeder Steers: M&L 1 300500# 125-153; 500-700# 117-140; M&L 2 300-500# 100-140; 500-700# 110-116.

Feeder Heifers: M&L 1 300500# 114-138.50; 500-700# 107.50-124; M&L 2 300-500# 100-131; 500-700# 85-102.

Feeder Bulls: M&L 1 300500# 135-146; 500-700# 97125; M&L 2 300-500# 107125; 500-700# 92-114.

Vealers: Util 60-120# 20-70.

Farm Calves: No. 1 Hols. bulls 95-125# 130-170, late week 100-125; No. 2 95-125# 100-135, late week 70-100; No. 3 80-120# 60-105; No. 1 Hols. Hfrs. 84-105# 160-230; No. 2 80-105# 60-160.

Hogs: Barrows & Glts 4954% lean 220-270# 65.5072.50; 45-50% lean 220270# 61-66.

Sows: US 1-3 300-500# 58-

60; 500-700# 55-59.

Graded Feeder Pigs: US 12 20-25# 170-190; 25-30# 140-150; 30-40# 120-145; 40-60# 110-120; 80-90# 7590; US 2 15-20# 180-210; 20-30# 100-140; 20-30# 175180; 30-40# 100-150.

Slaughter Sheep: Lambs Ch & Pr 2-3 40-60# 245-305, new crop to 358; 60-80# 207250, new crop 298-312; 80110# 180-195; 110-150# 170-194; Ch 1-3 40-60# 203224; 60-80# 175-203; 80110# 161-188; Ewes Gd 2-3 120-160# 91-104; 160-200# 87-103; Util 1-2 120-160# 7884; 160-200# 72-84.

Slaughter Goats: Kids Sel 1 40-60# 90-119; 60-80# 116134; 80-100# 131-156; Sel 2 40-60# 73-104; 60-80# 105122; Sel 3 40-60# 62-83; 6080# 79-98; Nannies Sel 1 80130# 121-136; 130-180# 124-140; Sel 2 80-130# 108124; 130-180# 116-131; Sel 3 50-80# 76-91; 80-130# 90105.50; Billies Sel 1 100150# 196-211; 150-250# 253-266; Sel 2 100-150# 160-175; 150-250# 190-205.

Dewart Auction, Dewart: December 12, 25 lds Hay, 9 Straw. Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 140-400; Grass 107-310; Straw 100-270.

Greencastle Livestock: December 12 & 15, 20 lds Hay, 1 Straw. Alfalfa/Grass 105-170.

Kutztown Auction, Kutztown: December 17, 48 lds Hay, 6 Straw. Alfalfa 210-360; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 180-295; Grass Hay 135-260; Straw 175-210 clean.

Middleburg Auct, Middleburg: December 14, 37 lds Hay, 10 Straw. Alfalfa 300; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 125-310; Timothy 180-230; Grass 145305; Straw 150-240.

Leinbach’s Mkt, Shippensburg: December 10 & 13, 61 lds Hay, 22 Straw. Alfalfa 207-375; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 130-350; Timothy 150-405; Grass 140-330; Straw 122245 clean.

New Wilmington Livestock, New Wilmington: December 16, 18 lds Hay, 0 Straw.

Alfalfa 230-250; Alfalfa/Grass 195-275.

PA DEPT OF AGRICULTURE Hay Market Summary Hay & Straw Market For Eastern PA: All hay prices paid by dealers at the farm and /ton. All hay and straw reported sold /ton. Compred to last week hay & straw sold steady. Alfalfa 175-250; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 160-300; Timothy 150-200; Straw 100160 clean; Mulch 60-80.

Summary of Lancaster Co. Hay Auctions: Prices/ton, 253 lds Hay, 47 Straw. Alfalfa 130-500; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 130-470; Timothy 130-310; Grass Hay 170-400; Straw 145-250.

Diffenbach Auct, December 12, 123 lds Hay, 18 lds Straw.

Alfalfa 165-500; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 140-430; Timothy 200335; Grass 185-400; Straw 150-250.

Green Dragon, Ephrata: December 16, 52 lds Hay, 13 Straw. Alfalfa 130-360; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 130-410; Timothy 135-310; Grass Hay 170-250; Straw 165-210.

Weaverland Auct, New Holland: December 15, 27 lds Hay, 4 Straw. Alfalfa 250-360; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 150-470; Grass 175-310; Straw 175205.

Wolgemuth Auction: Leola, PA: December 14, 51 lds Hay, 12 Straw. Alfalfa 170250; Alfalfa/Grass Mix 150390; Timothy 130-325; Grass 170-290; Straw 145215.

Summary of Central PA Hay Auctions: Prices/ton, 221 Loads Hay, 50 Straw.

Alfalfa 207-375; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 105-400; Timothy 150405; Grass 107-315; Straw 100-270.

Belleville Auct, Belleville: December 14, 30 lds Hay, 2 lds Straw. Alfalfa 275-310; Alfalfa/Grass Mixed 135-270; Grass 200-315.

VINTAGE SALES STABLES Paradise, PA December 19, 2011 Slaughter Steers: Hi Ch & Pr 3-4 1330-1540# 127131.50; Ch 2-3 1200-1475# 123-128; Sel 2-3 1200-1495# 118-122.50; Hols. Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 1240-1340# 109-110.50; Ch 2-3 1260-1345# 98-104.

Slaughter Heifers: Hi Ch & Pr 2-3 12451295# 122.50126.50; Ch 2-3 1020-1420# 117.50-123.50.

Slaughter Cows: Breakers 75-80% lean 67.50-71.50, hi dress 72.50-75; Boners 8085% lean 63-68.50, hi dress 69-72.50; Lean 85-90% lean 58-62,hi dress 66.50-68.50, lo dress 49-54.

Slaughter Bulls: YG 1 1151855# 76-84, lo dress 11051505# 59-74.50.

Holstein Bull Calves: No. 1 95-120# 110-130; 85-90# 6090; No. 2 100-120# 75-110; No. 3 80-125# 40-40; Util 65115# 20-65.

Holstein Heifers: No. 2 80115# 80-130.

WEAVERLAND AUCTION New Holland, PA December 15, 2011 Alfalfa: 2 lds, 250-360 Orchard Grass: 1 ld, 310 Mixed Hay: 19 lds, 150-470 Grass: 5 lds, 175-250 Straw: 4 lds, 175-205 EarCorn: 1 ld, 210 Firewood: 6 lds, 50-100 Corn Fodder: 1 ld, 130 Oat Hay: 1 ld 225 Soybean Stalks: 1 ld, 100 WOLGEMUTH AUCTION Leola, PA December 21, 2011 Alfalfa: 3 lds, 190-215 Mixed: 18 lds, 145-395 Timothy: 3 lds, 190-285 Grass: 14 lds, 150-355 Straw: 12 lds, 175-210 Firewood: 77-80/ld

The Ethanol Shuffle Flawed carbon accounting schemes at both the federal and state level are creating a dynamic where the U.S. is importing ethanol from Brazil while simultaneously exporting greater volumes back to Brazil. This “ethanol shuffle” is occurring exclusively as the result of state and Federal fuel regulations that “treat Brazilian sugarcane ethanol as if it were the Holy Grail of biofuels,” according to Geoff Cooper, the Renewable Fuels

Association’s Vice President of Research and Analysis.

In his recent blog post, “The Ethanol Shuffle,” Cooper explores this convoluted trade relationship and how U.S. policy is turning world ethanol markets upside down.

The heart of the issue is how both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) are calculating carbon emissions for corn-based ethanol

and Brazilian sugar ethanol. Under both the federal Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and the California Low Carbon Fuels Standard (LCFS), the carbon footprint of Brazilian based sugar ethanol is deemed far superior to corn-based ethanol. This results in a growing incentive for imports of ethanol from Brazil to meet increasingly aggressive carbon standards. At the same time, a struggling Brazilian ethanol industry cannot meet its own domestic demand. As such, Brazilian ethanol producers are finding it more valuable to export their product to America

(and the carbon emissions that go with ocean transport) and import growing volumes of U.S. ethanol (and the same carbon emissions).

As Cooper writes in his blog, “So, that’s how the “Ethanol Shuffle” works.

California imports sugarcane ethanol from Brazil rather than corn ethanol from Nebraska or Kansas; and in turn, corn ethanol from the Midwest travels to Houston or Galveston via rail, then is shipped to Brazil via tanker to “backfill” the volumes they sent to the U.S. Picture the irony of a tanker full of U.S. corn ethanol bound for Brazil passing a

tanker full of cane ethanol bound for Los Angeles or Miami along a Caribbean shipping route. Remember, this is all being done in the name of reducing GHG emissions.”

Cooper explores just how environmentally destructive this practice can be. Cooper found that transportation-related GHG emissions more than double in the scenario where California imports Brazilian cane ethanol and Brazil “backfills” those volumes with U.S. corn ethanol imports. And the miles traveled in in this scenario are more than eight times the miles

traveled in a scenario where California ethanol demand is met with corn ethanol from the Midwest.

There are economic ramifications to the shuffle effect as well. In concept, California gasoline blended with imported Brazilian ethanol has been 16 cents per gallon more expensive than gasoline blended with U.S. ethanol.

All of this is compounded by trade distorting practices that the Brazilians discretely engage in to disadvantage U.S. ethanol. The RFA recently raised this point in a letter to the U.S./Brazil Council.

Forest owners applaud Supreme Court on forest roads order WASHINGTON, D.C. — David P. Tenny, President and CEO of the National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO), released the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court issued an order asking the Solicitor General for the views of the federal government on two petitions challenging

Melvin & Joan Bodine Retirement Auction

Sat., Dec. 31, 2011, 9am blizzard date Sat., Jan. 7, 2012

5253 Rt. 364 at corner of Upper Hill Road 1 mile E. of Middlesex, NY, 11 mi. W. of Penn Yan, 12 mi. S. of Canandaigua.

Farm is sold, will sell:

D ANN A UCTIONEERS , D ELOS D ANN , 3339 Spangle St., Canandaigua, NY 14424, 585-396-1676. www.cnyauctions.com/dannauctioneers.htm UPCOMING AUCTIONS Sat., Mar. 10, 3:30pm: - Seneca Farm Toy Auction, Show 8:30-2pm. Benton Fire Dept., 932 Rt. 14A, Benton Center, 3 mi. N of Penn Yan, NY. Show info hosts David and Debra Dean 585-797-4211, 585-747-5025.

Sat., Mar. 31, 9am: - Equipment Consignment Auction, Windmill Farm Market, 3900 Rt. 14A, 5 mi. S. of Penn Yan, NY. Thurs., Apr. 5, 11am: - Marvin and Mildred Koek Excellent Farm Equipment Retirement Auction, 2324 Ridge Rd., Penn Yan, NY. IH 986, IH 1420 4wd combine, ‘95 Ford 16’ grain truck; tillage, planting, harvest equip.

policy and legal importance of this case is clear.

“For nearly four decades, the EPA has cooperated with the states under established Clean Water Act authority to build a network of Best Management Practices providing flexible and effective water quality protection during forestry operations.

This has been a Clean Water Act success story. The Ninth Circuit’s decision threatens to upend this progress by replacing an efficient and flexible system that promotes clean water with a costly and inflexible permit re-

quirement that invites additional litigation. In the end the Ninth Circuit’s decision hurts forest owners and forests alike.

“While this is a significant first step, there is no guarantee that the Supreme Court will hear the case and reverse the Ninth Circuit Court’s overstep. It does, however, provide the Administration and the Solicitor General an opportunity to submit to the Supreme Court a clear and unambiguous defense of EPA’s longstanding and legally appropriate approach to regulating forest roads as nonpoint sources.”

# HOLIDAY SALE #

TOP HI GRADE CATTLE & HEIFERS

FRIDAY

DECEMBER 30, 2011

11:00 A.M.

Directions: Sale to be held at Jack Wood's Sale Barn, located on Taylor Valley Rd. Cincinnatus, Just off of NYS Rte. 26. Watch for auction arrows.

(15) Top Holstein 1st calf heifers, with size and condition, and show dairy. Some fresh by sale day, others due for January. Nice group from one place.

(14) Hi Grade 1st calf heifers out of a 22,000 lb. herd. All AI breeding. Will have sires. All bred to Jersey for January & February. Closed herd and all home raised.

(18) Head from one consignor, some good 1st & 2nd's milking well. There are some Crosses in this group, and (5) Open heifers.

(10) Cows from another consignor, with nice 2nd & 3rds, selling as they bag or freshen.

Several 1st calf heifers consigned, some registered and just fresh. Milking 60-70 lbs.

(30) Open heifers from 400 lbs. to breeding age, more cattle being consigned daily.

Registered Holstein service bull. Already bred cows & heifers.

Also selling misc. items; (2) Electric waters, like new. WIC bedding chopper w/ Honda motor. Tractor chains (20.8X38) like new. Tractor seat, nuts & bolts, and more.

Managers Note: We have good dairy cattle at this sale. Cattle & heifers look good. Selling misc. items, then cattle.

Sale Managed By:

Gene Wood’s Auction Service, Inc. Cincinnatus, NY 13040

Tel: (607) 863-3821

Visit us on the Web @ genewoodsauctionserviceinc.com

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 9

Truck: ‘99 IH 4700 T444E, 6+1, 4 yr. old 22’ steel flat bed body, Edbro hoist, lift axle, 82,234 mi, 2,557 hrs; Tractor, Vineyard and Hay Equipment: JD830 (3 cyl.) tractor, 1,988 hrs, 1 owner; Shaver 4 way post pounder; Bob Equipment grape trimmer; 10 grape totes; 600 plastic grape picking boxes; NH 1035 sp bale wagon w/Wisc VG4D, 70 bale capacity, 1 owner; Fahr KH-40 4 star tedder; Ford 3pt. 5’ rotary mower; 3pt. 6’ rotary mower; Ford 3pt. 4-16 plow; 18.4x38 bolt on duals; JD Quick Couplers; 2 poly 1,100 gal tanks; Homelite portable pumps; 30 gal trailer mounted sprayer w/boom; stone boat, 5”x10’ grain auger; Wisc VE4 engine; Herd and Gerber seeders; hydraulic cylinders; 50-8’ cedar sharpened vineyard posts; quantity used vineyard posts suitable for shorter posts or firewood; Towmotor LPG 4000 lb forklift; Glencoe 3pt 4R s-tine cultivator.

Shop Tools: Lincoln welder; Lincoln portable welder; torch set; welding table; Sears 5hp 120 gal air compressor; Craftsman tool chests; 3/4” drive socket sets; wrenches; quantity hand, electric and air power tools; 4T porta power; floor and hyd. jacks; tap and die set; new and used parts washers; bench grinder; metal band saw; portable air compressor; shop press; engine lift; transmission jack; wheel jack; bench drill press; chain falls; JD and Sears portable generators; Honda XR 2600 5hp pressure washer; Craftsman 12” table saw; bolts bins; lubricants; new JD AC165 portable heater; shop portable stairs; log chains; quantity misc. tools.

Misc equipment: Quantity new and used parts used in farming and trucking businesses; 2 sleeper cab fairings off IH and Peterbilt; aluminum diamond plate truck fenders; 9.00x20-11R 24.5 tires; cherry lumber; 120 chicken waterers; Wells Ulkut K-2467 meat saw; wood block meat table; meat hooks; 14 livestock gates 8-20’.

Antiques and Household: Regulation size slate top pod table; wainscot cupboard; Widmer grape picking box, milk cans; potty chair; picnic table; lawn set.

Info: Mel Bodine 585-554-6629 Preview: Starts Tues., Dec. 27, 9-5pm Terms: ID for bidder number, cash, check auction day. Payment w/Visa, MC, Disc. 3% fee.

Sale Order: 9am antiques, household, 9:15am shop tools, 11am truck, tractor farm equip. remaining small tools; most of Auction sells indoors.

the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals’ ruling that forest roads are “point sources” requiring an industrial discharge permit under the Clean Water Act (CWA): “We applaud the Supreme Court for scrutinizing the Ninth Circuit’s decision to disregard EPA’s 35 years of success regulating forest management as a nonpoint source under Clean Water Act. The Court is hearing not only the voice of forest owners and managers across the country but also Attorneys General from 26 states who joined a brief supporting EPA’s historic approach. The

Owens announces guidance for employers using Agricultural Labor Program Congressman’s office requested employer handbook from Dept. of Labor WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Owens announced on Dec. 16 the release of a handbook for employers participating in the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Program by the U.S. Department of Labor. The document is the product of work by Congressman Owens and his colleagues to ease the administrative burden on family farms who use the program to secure seasonal labor.

“Addressing the administrative hurdles associated with H-2A is a top priority for New York growers who rely on the program. A reliable source of labor is critical to the region’s family farms.” said Owens.

“This handbook is a positive step by

the Department of Labor to provide guidance on the program.”

The H-2A visa program allows farmers to hire foreign seasonal workers when domestic labor is unavailable. The new employer handbook, which provides straightforward guidance on using the program can be found on Congressman Owens’ website at http://owens.house.gov/UploadedFiles/H-2A_Employer_Handbook.pdf.

In July, Congressman Owens helped coordinate a meeting with New York apple growers and Deputy Secretary of Labor Seth Harris to address practical issues with the H-2A visa program. The Department of Labor’s release of the employer handbook is a tangible result of that meeting.

“The New York State apple indus-

try is greatly dependent on H-2A labor, and any effort to help growers work their way through the process is greatly appreciated. We specifically want to recognize and thank Congressman Bill Owens for the hard work and efforts of his office. Mr. Owens and his staff have been diligent in working with the DOL, DHS, and other Congressional offices on behalf of all New York State apple growers,” said Jim Allen, President of the New York Apple Association.

New York’s agriculture industry is a major driver of the economy, employing thousands in the region. It is estimated that each job in the agriculture industry supports up to three off-thefarm jobs. In New York, this means 59,000 agriculture jobs and over 150,000 related off-the-farm jobs de-

pend on the H-2A visa program. These jobs are threatened when growers do not have reliable access to labor.

“The release of the H-2A employer handbook by the Department of Labor is a first step in dealing with the complicated H-2A process and the many questions that our members have about its application,” said Dean Norton, President of New York Farm Bureau. “While there is a lot more work to be done on this issue, this is an important acknowledgement of the concerns that have been expressed by growers across New York State. I would like to thank Congressman Owens for all of his work over the years on H-2A and for his assistance in working with us to encourage the Department of Labor to develop these guidelines.”

Dairy geneticist wins Nesbitt faculty development award UNIVERSITY PARK, PA — Chad Dechow, associate professor of dairy genetics, has been named recipient of the Arthur W. Nesbitt Faculty Program Development Award by Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences.

Representing a major gift by alumnus Nesbitt, this endowed award supports faculty research, teaching or extension activities in agribusiness, dairy science or food science.

The Nesbitt Award also aims to attract additional funding for the selected faculty members’ programs.

Dechow studies genetic variation and manipulation in dairy cattle, with an eye toward improving cow health and well-being while breeding for higher milk yield and milk-produc-

tion efficiency. He is receiving the Nesbitt Award based on his proposal, “Age-associated telomere length in cattle from different management systems, lameness status and breed.”

Dechow intends to use the Nesbitt Award funding to develop procedures that will amplify or replicate the protective buffers, or telomeres, on the ends of cattle chromosomes and establish whether variation in telomere length is associated with age of the cow, genetics and cow health.

“I hope this will allow me to establish a quantifiable measure of cow stress and well-being.” he said. “We have demonstrated that genetic selection for stable body weight and body condition can help maintain high levels of cow

Page 10 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

WEEKLY SALES EVERY MONDAY HOSKING SALES - FORMER WELCH LIVESTOCK Weekly Sales Every Monday 12:30 Produce, Misc. & small animals; 1:00 Dairy; **We will now sell lambs, goats, pigs, feeders immediately following Dairy.

Calves and cull beef approx. 5:00-5:30PM. Help us increase our volume - thus making a better market for everyone. **We are Independent Marketers- working 24/7 to increase your bottom line. Competitive marketing is the way to go.

Monday, Dec. 19th sale - Cull cows ave. .65 top cow .76 wt. 1670# $1269.20, Bulls up to .80, bull calves top $1.58. Lambs up to $2.02, Goats $250.00, piglets up to $32.50.

Monday, Dec. 26th - We will be open the day after Christmas - Business as usual!!

Monday, Jan. 2nd - Monthly Fat Cow & Feeder Sale.

Monday, Jan. 9th - Monthly Heifer Sale. 2 groups of Registered Cattle from overstocked Dairy's - outstanding cattle all ages. Watch future ads and website for full details. Call to advertise your group in our next ad.

Monday, Jan. 16th - Monthly Lamb, Sheep, Goat & Pig Sale.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from The Hosking Family, the Sale barn crew & Café Girls - We appreciate all the business & friends we have made along the way.

LOOKING TO HAVE A FARM SALE OR JUST SELL A FEW GIVE US A CALL. **Trucking Assistance - Call the Sale Barn or check out our trucker list on our Web site. Call to advertise in any of these sales it makes a difference.

Directions: Former Welch Livestock 6096 NYS Rt. 8, 30 miles South of Utica & 6 miles North of New Berlin, NY. www.hoskingsales.com Call today with your consignments.

Tom & Brenda Hosking 6096 NYS Rt. 8 New Berlin, NY 13411

607-699-3637 or 607-847-8800 cell: 607-972-1770 or 1771

health in high-yielding and efficient dairy cows.

“However, our research also suggests that adopting more intensive farm-management systems to facilitate the economic survival of dairy farms has not benefited cow health, leading to a need for new measures to monitor cow health and well-being,” Dechow said.

Bruce McPheron, dean of the college, noted the relevance of Dechow’s research. “The issue of animal well-being is one of the most important aspects of animal agriculture these days,” he said.

“The subject requires scientific data upon which we can build best practices and Chad’s

work is a novel approach to filling some of the gaps in our knowledge.”

Dechow teaches all or part of the following Penn State courses: Principles of Animal Breeding, Dairy Problem Solving, Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Selection, Dairy Farm Management Systems, and Introduction to Dairy Science. He also is advisor of the Dairy Science Club and coaches the state 4-H Dairy Team.

He received his doctoral degree in animal science from the University of Tennessee in 2003, a master’s degree in animal sciences from Penn State in 2000, a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Cornell University in 1997, and

FINGER LAKES LIVESTOCK EX.

FEEDER SALES 2012 Sat., January 7 @ 10 am Sat., February 4 @ 10 am Sat., March 17 @ 10 am Sat., April 21 @ 10 am *Sat., May 5 @ 10 am (also selling Trowbridge Angus Bulls)

Sat., May 19 @ 10 am Fri., June 1 @ 6 pm Fri., July 13 @ 6 pm

Fri., August 3 @ 6 pm Sat., September 8 @ 10 am Sat., September 22 @ 10 am Sat., October 6 @ 10 am Sat., October 20 @ 10 am Sat., November 3 @ 10 am Sat., November 10 @ 10 am Sat., December 1 @ 10 am

Please Vaccinate your cattle and bring documentation with you Cattle accepted Thurs & Friday between 7:30am-6:00pm

For info call: 1-585-394-1515 Visit our website @ www.fingerlakeslivestockex.com

For

an associate’s degree in agricultural science from the State University of New York at Morrisville.

Dechow joined the

faculty in Penn State’s Department of Dairy and Animal Science in 2003 as an assistant professor.

NEW YEAR’S EVE LARGE ANTIQUES & ESTATE AUCTION Sat., Dec 31 stst, 9:30 AM COUNTRY STORE, PRIMITIVE, ADVERTISING, VICTORIAN TOYS, COLLECTIBLES, ART AND FEATURING THE FARMHOUSE ESTATE OF ANN KILLIAN-BELFAST

IEL A. CARTER N A D AUCTIONS & APPRAISALS, INC.

New Auction & Event Center • Allegany, NY, on Exit 24 Ramp-Off www.carterauctions.com

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True spirit of Christmas embodied in balsam and ribbon

by Tracy Taylor Grondine They say that charity starts at home. And for nearly 15,000 people in the Washington, D.C. area and beyond, that sentiment was wholeheartedly felt in early December as they laid wreaths on graves in Arlington Cemetery. In the true meaning of Christmas, people from all walks of life joined together to honor nearly 100,000 of America’s fallen heroes.

The effort, known as Wreaths Across America, was started by Farm Bureau member Morrill

Worcester in 1992.

Worcester, who owns a wreath company in Harrington, ME, had extra wreaths at the close of that holiday season and wanted to put them to good use.

His idea was to honor America’s soldiers buried at Arlington Cemetery. And, as good deeds are contagious, once word got around about Worcester’s goal, others from the community joined in to make it a reality.

A local trucking company stepped in to transport the wreaths,

volunteers gathered to decorate them with red ribbons and even more people joined forces to place them on older graves that were becoming less and less visited.

That was nearly 20 years ago.

Today, through the nonprofit 501c3 Worcester formed in 2007 to expand the program, national and state cemeteries also receive Worcester wreaths — nearly 600 locations in the U.S. and beyond.

Further, during the annual pilgrimage from

Harrington to Arlington, the Wreaths Across America organization makes pit stops at schools, veterans’ organizations and cemeteries to teach, honor and remember. Seeing the police-escorted caravan of tractor trailers transporting the wreaths down the highway is a sight to behold.

In 2011, Americans from far and wide came by the busloads, in carpools, by Metro and on foot to Arlington Cemetery. There were so many volunteers wanting to help out that

wreaths became scarce.

And that’s a good thing.

What was even more special was the amount of time people spent at individual gravesites reading the headstones and talking with their children about the sacrifices of those soldiers.

Because of the generous donation of wreaths and volunteer manpower, many gravesites are decorated, from those in the older section of the cemetery to those that are but a few months old.

And Wreaths Across America is hoping to more

than double its number of wreaths in 2012 to ensure more fallen soldiers are remembered during the holiday season.

It’s people like Morrill Worcester, who gave something that was so much more than just surplus wreaths, who represent the true spirit of Christmas — that of giving, remembering and honoring. It just happens that sometimes the holiday spirit is made even more special when it’s wrapped in balsam and tied with a red ribbon.

How Environmental Quality Incentives Program works in Wyoming County REGULAR LIVESTOCK SALES DURING THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY & NEW YEARS WEEKS

SALE EVERY WEDNESDAY @ 1 PM For info call: 585-394-1515

FINGER LAKES LIVESTOCK EX. 3 Miles East Of Canandaigua, NY on Rt. 5 & 20 Visit Our Web Site www.fingerlakeslivestockex.com

by Mia Halter, District Conservationist The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is one of the largest programs in the 2008 Farm Bill.

This voluntary conservation program promotes environmental quality and helps producers meet local, state and federal regulations. The program provides a payment to install one or more “conservation practices.”

Implementing certain conservation practices

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Socially Disadvantaged: • Is a group whose members have been subject to racial or ethnic prejudice because of their identity as members of a group, without regard to their individual qualities.

These groups consist of the following: • American Indians or Alaskan Natives • Asians • Blacks or African Americans • Native Hawaiians or other Pacific Islanders and • Hispanics Limited Resource Farmer or Rancher: • Is an applicant with direct or indirect gross farm sales not more than the current indexed value in each of the previous 2 years, and • Who has a total household income at or below the national poverty level for a family of four, or less than 50 percent of county median household in-

FEEDER CATTLE SALE

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come in each of the previous 2 years.

— Legal entity or joint operation can be a Limited Resource Farmer or Rancher if all individual members independently qualify.

The NRCS Website Limited Resource Farmer Self-Determination Tool • The purpose of this self determination tool is to enable potential limited resource farmers and ranchers to ascertain eligibility for various USDA programs and benefits.

• The On-Line Limited Resource Self-Determination Tool can be found at: www.lrftool.sc.egov.usd a.gov/ Please contact the Warsaw NRCS Field Office to find out more about available financial assistance Farm Bill conservation programs or technical assistance at 585-7865070 Ext.3.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 11

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improves or maintains the health of New York’s natural resources.

The 2008 Farm Bill recognizes landowners or operators who are socially disadvantage, or have limited resources, or are beginning farmers as eligible for special incentives.

These incentives include increase payment rates, and evaluation under special funding pools for which a separate payment schedule has been developed.

Historically underserved individuals and groups A Beginning Farmer or Rancher means an individual or entity who: • Is an applicant who has not operated a farm or ranch, or who has operated a farm or ranch for not more than 10 consecutive years.

• Will materially and substantially participate in the operation of the farm or ranch.

USDA implements provisions from 2008 Farm Bill to protect livestock and poultry producers WASHINGTON, D.C. — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced USDA has published the Final Rule implementing the 2008 Farm Bill provisions to better protect livestock producers and poultry growers under the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA).

“As I travel throughout the countryside, I often hear from farmers and ranchers about their concerns with the marketplace becoming more concentrated,” Secretary Vilsack said.

“While concentration certainly comes with some efficiencies, Congress recognized in the 2008 Farm Bill that additional protections for producers are warranted. Today’s rule will im-

plement these targeted protections and help provide more fairness and transparency in the marketplace.”

The provisions being finalized by the Department today were required by the 2008 Farm Bill and have been modified from the June 22, 2010 proposed rule. These sections include criteria the Secretary may consider when determining whether a live poultry dealer has provided reasonable notice to poultry growers of any suspension of the delivery of birds, when determining whether a requirement of additional capital investments over the life of a poultry growing arrangement or swine production contract constitutes a vio-

Page 12 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Owens votes to ease regulations on farms Bill prohibits further regulation of rural dust by the EPA WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Dec. 8, Congressman Bill Owens voted in favor of legislation that would rein in regulations on family farms by the Environment Protection Agency. H.R. 1633, the Farm Dust Regulation Prevention Act, would prevent the EPA from issuing new rules that regulate “farm dust.” The legislation passed the House of Representatives 268-150.

“Family farms are a main economic driver of the region, and it is critical that we work to provide the tools they need to thrive and expand,” said Owens. “This legislation provides the certainty New York farmers need to make long-term investments in their business and contribute to the economic growth of the region.”

The bipartisan bill will ensure that no new regulations will be written regarding coarse particulate matter on farms, also called “farm dust.” New regulations could prove costly for New York farmers to implement, which would hinder economic development and food

security of the region.

Earlier this year, Owens joined a bipartisan group of colleagues in urging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to exempt milk spills from being classified in the same manner as oil spills under the Oil Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure program.

On Feb. 15, Owens met with EPA Regional Administrator Judith Enck, who advised the Congressman that this proposed regulation would not be adopted.

Owens has also worked with local stakeholders and a bipartisan group of colleagues in urging the EPA to abandon a proposed rule that would over-regulate the waste oil created when motorists perform their own oil changes.

Last week, Congressman Owens voted for two bills that would reduce regulations on small businesses in New York. He also offers a forum on his website for small business owners to report regulations they believe to be unnecessary. New Yorkers can find the form at http://owens.house.go v/Contact/SmallBizRegs.htm.

lation of the Packers and Stockyards Act and when determining if a packer, swine contractor, or live poultry dealer has provided a reasonable period of time for a grower to remedy a breach of contract that could lead to termination of a production contract.

The rule also includes a section requiring contracts that require the use of arbitration to in-

clude language on the signature page that allows the producer or grower to decline arbitration and provides criteria the Secretary may consider when determining if the arbitration process provided in a contract provides a meaningful opportunity for growers and producers to participate fully in the arbitration process.

The Department also

planned to seek additional public comment on several other revised provisions from the June 22, 2010 proposed rule including changes to the tournament system of payment for poultry growers, requirements to collect and post sample contracts and to address the issue of need for producers to show harm to competition prior to asserting a vio-

lation of the Packer and Stockyards Act. However, the FY2012 Agriculture Appropriations bill passed by Congress included language prohibiting the Department from moving forward on these important provisions. Despite this setback, USDA and the Obama Administration remain committed to promoting a fair and transparent marketplace.

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PFB opposed to new restrictions on youths working in agriculture CAMP HILL, PA — Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) submitted written comments to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that include concerns about proposed changes to laws that would excessively limit work by youths on farms.

“The restrictions and regulations proposed by the labor department would negatively affect the children of farm families as well as youngsters who don’t live on a farm, including those who participate in 4-H and FFA activities. If the proposed rules are adopted, there will be a drastic change in the nature of work that youths under age 16 can perform in agriculture,” said PFB President Carl T. Shaffer.

Farm Bureau notes that DOL claims its “Notice of Proposed Rulemaking” will not change the “parental exemption” in the current law, but Farm Bureau says DOL’s new language would not include an exemption for farms that are incorporated or formed as family partnerships.

“Many farm families in Pennsylvania and across the

United States have incorporated or formed a family partnership for estate planning, insurance and other reasons.

They are still family farms with moms and dads making the decisions over what work duties their children have been trained to do and are capable of doing in a safe manner. Farmers understand that there are potential dangers on the farm and they abide by existing farm labor laws,” added Shaffer.

Meanwhile, the proposed regulations could prohibit or seriously limit 4-H and FFA youths enrolled in vocational training in agriculture, or Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE), from working on farms.

Other non-farm youths, such as neighbors, nephews and nieces, would also not be allowed to perform many typical farm tasks under the DOL notice.

Some of the new regulations would require a significant increase in the amount of coursework for tractor-safety certification for operators of all tractors, including lawn and

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garden tractors, would prohibit students under 16 from working in a barn that has mechanical equipment and prohibit students from working with animal husbandry practices.

“Farm families already struggle to meet labor needs.

Growers can’t afford to let much time pass between evaluating the current year’s harvest and diving into planning for the next year. The Mosaic Company encourages growers to keep in mind the fertilizer fundamentals while considering innovative agronomic technology. The 4 R’s of Crop Fertility are keys to profitability and sustainable nutrient stewardship in the coming year.

Simply put the 4 R’s stand for fertilizer from the right source, applied at the right rate, applied in the right time, at the right place. Fertilizer from the right source will deliver balanced crop nutrition, and farmers must carefully consider the ratio of nutrient elements applied to their soil.

Ron Olson, Mosaic Eastern Region Senior Agronomist, points out that the 4 R’s deliver more than higher yields — they support the future of agriculture. “Often farmers are too modest about the good things they are doing for the

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Page 14 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

environment,” said Olson. “Practicing and talking about the 4 R’s is a good way to engage in the conversation. If we look at the trend, it seems likely that we will see a growing interest in efficiency and sustainability, both by farmers and by consumers of farm products.”

Olson continues, “It’s important that agriculture show the regulators, our neighbors, and the world, that American farmers are being good environmental stewards with best management practices.”

Smart stewardship practices impact a grower’s bottom line, as well. According to the International Plant Nutrient Institute (IPNI), best management practices suggest that at least 40 percent of yield can be attributed to the 4 R’s.

“Sustainable best management practices such as the 4 R’s certainly provide farmers with better yields and profits,” said Olson.

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The American Farm Bureau Federation also filed comments on behalf of more than 70 agricultural organizations in response to the Labor Department’s over-reaching regulatory efforts.

The fundamentals of nutrient stewardship invaluable when fertilizer planning

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Erie County Fair receives international recognition The Erie County Fair is a proud recipient of seven prestigious first place awards from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) in the areas of Communications, Agriculture and Competitive Exhibits. The IAFE is headquartered in Springfield, MO. Award of Distinction for Communications — there are a total of 21 award categories for the Communication Awards.

• 2011 Erie County Fair website (www.ecfair.org) Award of Distinction for Competitive Exhibits — there are a total of nine award categories for Competitive Exhibits.

• Use of Fair’s Theme Throughout Competitive Exhibits; • Interactive Competitive Exhibit — Watermelon Carving Contest; • Competitive Exhibit Display Photo; and • Competitive Exhibit Display Photo Series.

Award of Distinction for Agriculture — there are a total of 13 award categories for Agriculture.

• Special or Specific Agricultural Educational Event, Exhibit or Program for the Fairgoing Public — Daily Calf Feeding in Ag-Sperience; and • Non-Fair Agricultural Event or Program — Farm 2 Table.

Additionally, the Erie County Fair

was awarded the “Competitive Exhibits Supreme Champion;” this was awarded to the fair with the highest number of points awarded in all categories.

Fifty-seven fairs in three countries compete and the entries are evaluated and judged by a team of industry leaders. These individuals are selected from the membership of International Association of Fairs and Expositions, which has over 3,000 members around the globe. The Erie County Fair is seated in the top division (Division 5) based on the 1,053,150 attendance from the 2011 Fair.

The awards were presented during

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Proposed animal disease traceability rules raise concerns CAMP HILL, PA — Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) expressed concerns over proposed rules on animal disease traceability through written comments sent to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack.

One of Farm Bureau’s major concerns with the new Animal Disease Traceability (ADT) proposal is that it actually calls for a step backward by regressing to outdated technology, limiting the ability of farmers to use more effective animal tracking procedures.

“Pennsylvania already has a rather sophisticated electronic database system to track animals and has a history of high compliance with USDA’s past identification programs. In fact, Pennsylvania is widely considered a national leader in animal disease surveillance.

We seriously question a proposal to turn back the clock to using a paper-based system when the current electronic system works so well in Pennsylvania,” said PFB President Carl T. Shaffer.

Farm Bureau is also concerned that the proposed rules would negatively impact Pennsylvania’s thriving cattle export industry, which successfully utilizes radio frequency identification (RFID) technolo-

gy to efficiently and reliably track cattle and provide disease traceability information.

When an RFID tag is scanned, it sends information directly to a computer, minimizing paperwork and the chance of human error in writing down a tag number.

“We support a voluntary national identification system, but we are leery of making changes that would use older technology, which will increase costs through additional time-consuming paperwork and the hiring of more staff,” added Shaffer.

In its comments, PFB wrote that it concurs with comments and concerns offered by the American Farm Bureau Federation. Some of those concerns focus on the shortage of accredited veterinarians to provide certificates of animal inspections, the importance of ensuring data privacy and producer confidentiality and that program costs are equitable between producers, the industry, USDA and other agencies.

“Farm Bureau looks forward to continuing its working relationship with USDA in developing an efficient and workable Animal Disease Traceability Plan and in protecting and maintaining animal health,” concluded Shaffer.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 15

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the Awards Reception on Nov. 30, during the 121St annual IAFE Convention held in Las Vegas, NV. The purpose of these competitions is to encourage fair members to share methods and ideas, in an effort to improve and enhance communications and programs at fairs.

The Agricultural Fair and Expo Industry is not only very important to rural and urban economies globally, but also is steeped in tradition and has a tremendously positive impact on the social well being of our rural and urban society.

The 2012 Erie County Fair dates will be Aug. 8-19, and the theme will be “Wild About The Fair.”

NRCS encourages producers to participate in conservation survey HARRISBURG, PA — Denise Coleman, Pennsylvania State Conservationist for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is encouraging all producers in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to participate in the Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP) survey that is currently under way.

“Information gathered from this survey is vital to help us determine how we can better help farmers protect the soil, water, and habitat in the Chesapeake Bay watershed and document onfarm conservation accomplishments.

The more farmers that respond, the more documentation we can provide to show that farmers are voluntarily taking steps to improve the Bay,” said Coleman.

The survey, financed

by NRCS and conducted

by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), will collect information about all farming and conservation practices on cultivated cropland throughout the entire Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Conservation practices help farmers and rural communities maintain productive farmland, protect the environment, and restore the health of the Bay. Since the CEAP survey was last conducted, farmers have adopted many agricultural best management practices using publicly available technical and financial assistance from conservation programs, as well as through their own initiative and at their own expense. The CEAP survey aims to capture all

of those on-farm conservation activities.

Data obtained through CEAP will help NRCS document the success of water quality improvements from the implementation of conservation practices, and will be used to maintain, modify, and improve programs that assist farmers in planning and installing conservation practices.

NASS representatives will visit approximately 590 farms in Pennsylvania through January 2012. Producers will be asked to provide information on farm production practices; chemical, fertilizer and manure applications; integrated pest management; and adopted conservation practices. As with all NASS surveys, respondents are guaranteed by law that their individual

Is there overlap in the farm safety net?

Page 16 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Recent public discussion of Federal farm programs has suggested that the current array of programs, constructed over time through successive farm acts and other legislation, has created the potential for overlap among programs. Identifying Overlap in the Farm Safety Net provides a classification of types of overlap and

a synthesis of ERS research about overlapping payments in the farm safety net, including how to identify and measure overlap among crop revenue insurance, ACRE, SURE, and ad hoc disaster assistance.

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information will be kept confidential.

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ASC mechanical engineering technology students convert farm tractor to all-electric-powered tractor ALFRED, NY — Pride was the dominant emotion recently as 19 mechanical engineering technology (MET) students and a smattering of agricultural business and welding technology students at Alfred State College gave new life to a 1949 “left-for-dead” gasoline-powered Allis Chalmers “G” farm tractor found on Craig’s List by converting it to an all-electric-powered tractor this semester. Additionally, one student from the digital media and animation program completed an internship requirement by filming a documentary of the process.

Under the direction of Dr. Matthew

Lawrence, assistant professor, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Technology, students collaborated on the project, often working on the tractor outside of class and lab time, during the rehab.

According to Lawrence, “The School of Arts and Sciences generously funded this project-based learning opportunity for seventh-semester students in the MECH 7223 energy systems class. The tractor will be ‘owned’ by Terry Tucker, dean, School of Arts and Sciences at the college, and used at the college’s Groveland facility. On one charge, the tractor can plow for

two hours or cultivate all day.”

Senior MET student Chris Graham, Elmira, admits when he first learned of the project he was skeptical. “I’m not from ‘the country,’” he said, “so had never been around tractors, had no experience with them. So my first response was ‘are you kidding me?’

But, turns out, it was a great experience. We all learned so much — and it was good, too, because we [the student group] took over the project and Dr. Lawrence allowed us to work on it on our own time… we didn’t always need to have someone looking over our shoulder. And, the project will

now take on a new life, helping the environment and supporting the college’s goal of sustainability.”

Graham, who will intern with Hardinge, Inc., in Elmira next semester, says that he likes the “hands-on aspect of learning at Alfred State. I never wanted to be stuck in a classroom all day, every day,” he says. “I wanted to be doing something, and rehabbing the tractor certainly allowed us to put our education to work!”

As a final touch, students completed the make-over by painting the tractor a bright orange to match its original paint job.

Ethanol industry urges extension of cellulosic tax incentives Advanced and cellulosic ethanol producers are urging Congress to extend key tax incentives for cellulosic ethanol beyond their expiration date of Dec. 31, 2012.

In a letter sent Dec. 12 to Congressional leaders, the Advanced Ethanol Council (AEC) pressed for the extension of the Cellulosic Biofuels Producer Tax Credit (PTC) and the Special Depreciation Allowance for Cellulosic Biofuel Plant Property.

AEC Executive Director

Brooke Coleman underscored the importance of these tax incentives, writing that they “are vital to the ongoing development of the domestic advanced ethanol industry. To ensure stability in the marketplace, and prevent unnecessary job losses, Congress should provide long-term extensions of these provisions (5+ years).”

As new ethanol biorefineries are beginning construction, the AEC emphasized the importance of consistent federal policy to this kind of mul-

ti-billion dollar investment.

“The advanced and cellulosic biofuels industry is now in the process of building new plants, innovating existing production facilities with emerging technologies, and introducing new product streams that will allow the renewable fuels sector to become more profitable, diversified and efficient,” wrote Coleman. “Several billion dollars have been invested in advanced biofuels development with the expectation that

Congress will stay the course with regard to its commitment to the industry. A tax increase on advanced biofuels at this time would curtail investment and undercut an industry just starting to close deals and break ground on first commercial plants.”

The AEC is asking Congress to extend these important tax incentives this year as part of a final tax extenders package as they are set to expire next year. “As Congress considers the exten-

sion of a number of tax provisions for the clean energy sector, we would also like to highlight the importance of timing. The mere prospect of the expiration of the PTC and Special Depreciation Allowance for cellulosic biofuels in 2012 will start to affect projects that take 18 months to build, and could drive our industry into a series of ‘fits and starts’ that has dampened investment in other domestic clean energy sectors for decades.”

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8-9, 2012 Eastern States Exposition West Springfield, MA Wednesday 10am - 7pm Thursday 9am - 4pm

800-218-5586 Fax 518-673-3245 Visit Our Web site: www.leetradeshows.com Big Iron Expo is Produced by the Trade Show Division of Lee Newspapers, Inc. Publishers of Hard Hat News, Waste Handling Equipment News, North American Quarry News P.O. Box 121, 6113 St Hwy. 5, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 17

FEBRUARY

For Information on Exhibiting or Attending Call Ken Maring

Page 18 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

National Grange: Rural Americans lose again, FCC staff analysis forces AT&T and T-Mobile merger to a halt WASHINGTON, D.C. — The recent FCC application withdrawal for the proposed merger of AT&T and T -Mobile will significantly delay the buildout of rural broadband, the National Grange said recently, and further put rural Americans behind their urban and suburban counterparts.

The withdrawal came after the FCC circulated a staff analysis on Nov. 23, that expressed a severely negative response to almost every argument AT&T made as to why this merger was a positive move for the public.

The FCC staff analysis claimed that the arguments that AT&T put

forth regarding the expanding coverage from 80 percent to 97 percent, without government subsidies, would occur anyway due to carrier competition.

National Grange Legislative Director Nicole Palya Wood said she, like many members of the 145-year-old nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is extremely frustrated by the news.

“The assumption made by FCC staff that market competition in these high-cost rural areas will drive private entities to make these investments on their own is incredibly unsubstantiated,” Wood said. “Our members suffer greatly from a digi-

tal divide that leaves them without affordable high-speed Internet access, let alone competition, which provides them a choice of providers in their areas.”

National Grange President Ed Luttrell said, “Grange members have for nearly a decade supported rural broadband expansion as a way to enhance business, educational and health options in rural areas. Many of the Grange’s more than 160,000 members face inadequate or no access to high-speed internet.”

“The rationale that build-out will happen anyway, stands in direct conflict with every statement the

FCC has put forth in the National Broadband Plan, and its press releases over the last two years, not to mention that it ignores a commitment made President Obama to make broadband build-out a top priority. Rural Americans lost big with the withdrawal of this merger application,” Wood said.

Wood said she hopes the agency will take a closer look at future proposals and assumptions made in the staff analysis.

“I would highly encourage FCC staff to explore this argument when looking into further applications,” Wood said.

Livestock, poultry coalition requests hearing on the Renewable Fuel Standard’s Impact on economy WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a letter to the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, a coalition of the U.S. livestock and poultry industry associations, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the American Meat Institute, the National Chicken Council, the National Meat Association, the National Pork

Producers Council and the National Turkey Federation, requested a hearing to discuss the Renewable Fuel Standard’s (RFS) impact on the economy.

The groups cited ongoing pressure on domestic feed grain supplies and a discovery of $9 million of fraudulent renewable identification numbers as justifications for a hearing.

“In light of the ongoing pressures that the RFS is placing on the domestic feed grain supplies, something must be done to protect livestock and poultry producers from excessively high corn prices because of the rigid RFS compliance system,” the groups told Committee Chair Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Ranking Member James

Inhofe (R-OK). “Therefore, we request that the Senate hold a hearing to examine the continued pressure on grain supplies and the impact that it is having on the bottom line of livestock and poultry producers.”

The letter noted that a 2011 National Academy of Sciences study found that since 2007, the diversion of portions of the corn crop to

ethanol production has been a contributing factor to the increased strain on livestock and poultry producers.

While other factors play a role, the RFS mandate is the sole area the U.S. government can control, the groups said.

“Not only are the meat and poultry industries asking the Senate committee to make an attempt to un-

derstand the impact on farmers and ranchers, but we also are asking the committee to consider the impact on the American consumer,” the groups said. “The livestock and meat and poultry coalition thinks an EPW committee hearing to examine the continued merits and impact of this broad reaching policy would be timely and relevant.”

CEV launches new “must haves” for 2012 meat judging teams students to study for the written exam,” said Dr. Randy Harp, Tarleton State University professor and Chairman of the National FFA Meats Evaluation & Technology CDE. “We are thrilled to have CEV on our team.”

With the launch of the Meat Science & Food Safety presentation also comes the launch of the new Retail Cut ID DVD, featuring the newly-approved cuts of the National FFA and 4-H; both “must have” resources for all 2012 meat judging teams.

Customers can visit www.cevmultimedia.com to purchase the new Meat Science & Food Safety PowerPoint and the Retail Cut ID DVD.

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December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 19

CEV Multimedia has launched the new Meat Science & Food Safety PowerPoint®, the approved resource for the National FFA Meats Evaluation and Technology CDE written exam.

This in-depth presentation is the sole reference material for the written exam for the National FFA Meats Evaluation and Technology Career and Development Event (CDE) beginning 2012. It contains updated information regarding animal care, meat handling and safety, buying meat, nutrition of meat, meat cookery, processed meats and food safety.

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Page 20 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

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The Fertilizer Institute applauds U.S. Department of Agriculture’s incorporation of 4R nutrient stewardship in new nutrient management standard WASHINGTON, D.C. — TFI Fertilizer Institute (TFI) commended the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) for embracing 4R nutrient stewardship (the right nutrient source at the right rate, the right time, and in the right place) at the national level with its Dec. 13 release of the national conservation practice standard for nutrient management.

“We are extremely pleased with USDA/NRCS’ call for 4R nutrient stewardship as part of a sustainable agricultural system,” said TFI President Ford West. “Agriculture is being asked to maintain profitable farm economics, while meeting the increased product demands of a growing population and responding to increased

scrutiny of land and resource management and the 4R’s are key to addressing challenge.”

4R Nutrient Stewardship is an innovative and science-based approach to fertilizer best management practices (BMPs) to help achieve agricultural sustainability. The 4Rs imply there are four aspects to every fertilizer application and it provides a simple framework to assess whether a given crop has access to the necessary nutrients.

Asking “Was the crop given the right source at the right rate, the right time, and in the right place?” helps identify opportunities to improve fertilizer efficiency and prevent nutrient movement from each field. The four aspects of this system for fertilizer management are interconnected, and none of the four can be right when any one of

them is wrong.

Over the past year, TFI has been working with the NRCS to provide input on their revision of this important standard. The nutrient management standard is an important tool in

the NRCS conservation toolbox. The agency’s staff uses this conservation practice to help farmers and ranchers apply their nutrients more efficiently. With the standard as a base, NRCS will offer volun-

tary technical and financial assistance to producers nationwide for planning and implementing on-farm nutrient management plans.

Farmers can use this assistance to help meet federal, state, tribal

and local environmental regulations. NRCS state offices now have until Jan. 1, 2013, to comply with erosion, nitrogen and phosphorus criteria for their state nutrient management standard.

Slayden named acting vice president of membership for NFU WASHINGTON, D.C. — National Farmers Union (NFU) is pleased to welcome Leigh Slayden to the Washington, D.C., office as the acting vice president of membership.

Slayden most recently served as the director of marketing and member services at the Association of Public Health Laboratories. Prior to that, Slayden spent more than 15 years serving in the membership department for organizations such as the American Diabetes Association, the American Chemical Society, and the American College of Physicians.

“We are very pleased to have Leigh join our staff as the acting vice president of membership,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. “She has a tremendous background in membership and marketing, and she brings a number of new ideas to NFU.” Slayden grew up in upstate New York and spent summers on her family’s ranches in South Dakota and Indiana. She earned her bachelor’s degree from University of Maryland University College.

“NFU’s mission of keeping families on their farms is a very impor-

tant one and one that I truly believe in,” said Slayden. “I look forward to working with our members and being available to them.”

In her role as acting vice president of membership, Slayden will work with state organizations in structural development, strategic planning, developing membership programs, enhancing revenue streams, building affiliate relationships and designing leadership training.

Pending NFU Board approval, Slayden will be named the permanent vice president of membership in January.

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December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 21

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Page 22 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

CODE 35 40 45 55 75 80 85 90 95 105 115 120 130 140 155 160 165 175 190 210 215 235 325 335 340 370 410 415 440 445 455 460 465 470 495 500 510 560 580 585 590 595 610 620 630 640 645 650 655 670 675 680 700 705 730 735 740 760 780 790 805 810 815 860 885 900 910 915 950 955 960 1035 1040 1050 1060 1075 1080 1085 1100 1115 1120 1130 1135 1140 1160 1170 1180 1190 1195 1200 1205 1210 1220 1225

CLASSIFICATION Announcements Antique Tractors Antiques Appraisal Services ATV Auctions Backhoe/Loaders Bale Covers Barn Equipment Bedding Beef Cattle Bees-Beekeeping Bird Control Books Building Materials/Supplies Buildings For Sale Business Opportunities Cars, Trucks, Trailers Chain Saws Christmas Trees Collectibles Computers Custom Butchering Dairy Cattle Dairy Equipment Dogs Electrical Employment Wanted Farm Machinery For Sale Farm Machinery Wanted Feed, Seed, Grain & Corn Fencing Fertilizer & Fert. Spreading Financial Services For Rent or Lease For Sale Fresh Produce, Nursery Grain Handling Eq., Bins & Dryers Groundcover Guns Hay - Straw For Sale Hay - Straw Wanted Help Wanted Herd Health Hogs Hoof Trimming Horse Equipment Horses Housing For Stock Industrial Equipment Insurance Irrigation Lawn & Garden Legal Notices Livestock For Sale Livestock Wanted Llamas Lumber & Wood Products Maintenance & Repair Maple Syrup Supplies Miscellaneous Mobile Homes Motorcycles Organic Parts & Repair Pest Control Plants Poultry & Rabbits Real Estate For Sale Real Estate Wanted Recreational Vehicles & Motor Homes Seeds & Nursery Services Offered Sheep Silos, Repairs, Silo Equip.

Snowblowers Snowmobiles Snowplows Stud Service Tires & Tire Repair Service Tools Tractors Tractors, Parts & Repair Trailers Tree Trimming & Removal Truck Parts & Equipment Trucks Vegetable Vegetable Supplies Veterinary Wanted Water Conditioning Waterwell Drilling Wood For Sale

Announcements

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ADVERTISING DEADLINE Wednesday, December 28th For as little as $8.25 - place a classified ad in

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CHECK YOUR AD - ADVERTISERS should check their ads on the first week of insertion. Lee Publications, Inc. shall not be liable for typographical, or errors in publication except to the extent of the cost of the first weeks insertion of the ad, and shall also not be liable for damages due to failure to publish an ad.

Adjustment for errors is limited to the cost of that portion of the ad wherein the error occurred.

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ADVERTISERS Get the best response from your advertisements by including the condition, age, price and best calling hours.

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2 PATZ gutter cleaner chutes, one right, one left; 50’ taper board feeder; 16’-20’ Patz silo unloader; 18’ Silomatic silo unloader; 20 ton hopper bins.

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ATTENTION DAIRY FARMERS

FOR SALE: 2 row narrow green head, fits John Deere 3960 and others, $1,800. 716257-5129

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(585) 734-3264 • (585) 734-3265 Dairy Cattle SHORTHORNS Make Great CHRISTMAS Presents! Echo Farm in Hinsdale, NH has 20 Reg Shorthorn calves for sale, $600-2200 each depending on age/pedigree. 2 May’s, 12 summer’s, 3 November’s, & 3 December’s. Also, 4 bred heifers (due Jan-Mar). Please call Courtney for more information, (603)336-7706 ext10 or email:

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Alternative Parts Source Inc. Chittenango, NY •

315-687-0074

1991 LOR-AL EZ Rider F350 Spray Truck, 60’ booms, 500Gal. tank, light-bar, chemical injection, Mattracks available. Jantzi Crop & Turf Spray.

315-523-2249

1993 Peterbilt 378* 1993 Peterbilt 379* 1997 Peterbilt 379* 2004 Mac Tri-Axle dump trailer, 34’* 2005 Trailstar Tri-Axle dump trailer 34’* JD 348 baler w/ ejector

315-868-7467 Leave Message

pics available ~~~ *call for specs

Farm Machinery For Sale

Heifers & Herds Jack Gordon (518) 279-3101 Dairy Cattle

Dairy Cattle

3 BROWN SWISS first calf heifers, nice, in freestalls. Also Holstein heifers, close & fresh, all shots. 585-732-1953 50 ORGANIC Dairy Cows.

Springing heifers & shortbreds. 570-547-6343 50 WELL GROWN Freestall Heifers due within 60 days.

Joe Distelburger 845-3447170.

Herd Expansions

WANTED

jeffking@kingsransomfarm.com

518-791-2876

All Size Heifers

www.cattlesourcellc.com

Also Complete Herds Prompt Pay & Removal

WNY Farm Show Workshops: Pesticide applicator points, energy efficiency, and more!

February 2nd and 3rd, Hamburg, NY.

315-269-6600

SEVERAL USED Double 6 and 8 parlors w/ATO’s and 3” low lines complete. Several 2”: pipelines, used vacuum pumps, receiver groups, claws, ATO’s, washer boxes, etc. 585-732-1953

Best youth judge wins a registered heifer calf! Check out the youth cattle judging page @ www.wnyfarmshow.com

Dairy Cattle

ALWAYS AVAILABLE: Whether you’re looking for a few heifers or a large herd, we have a quality selection of healthy, freestall trained cattle.

Herds ranging in size from 30-200+ tie or freestall.

Electrical Let our 35 years of electrical experience go to work for you.

Visit Our New Troy, NY Location!

Providing Complete Grain/Dairy Facility Installations, Facility Power Distribution & Lighting, Motor Control Centers, Automation & Troubleshooting, and New Services & Upgrades.

DISTELBURGER LIVESTOCK SALES, INC.

Call Jeffrey at Agri-Fab & Repair, Inc.

Middletown, NY (845) 344-7170

dba AFR Electrical Service

Strong demand for youngstock, heifers and herds.

buycows@warwick.net

@ 585-584-9210

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 23

Dairy Equipment

95 WELL-GROWN freestall trained Holstein heifers due January & February. Had all shots. 315-269-6600

Dairy Cattle

We have clients in need of herds, fresh cows, bred, and open heifers. Call Us with your information or email

Sell Your Items Through Reader Ads P.O. Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

1-800-836-2888 classified@leepub.com Farm Machinery For Sale

Farm Machinery For Sale

TRANSPORT HAY ELEVATORS 1 1/2” square tubing, 14 gauge 24’ - 48’ Includes Motor & Wheels Other sizes available Call for prices.

Farm Machinery For Sale

Farm Machinery For Sale

Farm Machinery For Sale

Farm Machinery For Sale

J.D.4450, 2WD, quad, just arrived. Also J.D.4650 power shift & duals. Zeisloft Eq. 800919-3322

JD 336 wire baler w/kicker good cond $2500; Wooden kicker wagons good gears, wagons 2 and 3 years old $1600 choice. 315-224-1667 315-730-3271

JD 7720 COMBINE, 4X4, vg!, just finished our corn and beans, $16,500. Mike Franklin 607-749-3424

NEW EQUIPMENT

IH 5488, 190hp, 7800 hrs, 20.8x38 duals 70%, great condition, $20,000. 607-4351478

We Custom Build Wagon Gears - 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 Ton

MILO MFG. • PENN YAN, NY

315-536-8578

Charles McCarthy Farm Machinery TRACTORS • FARM MACHINERY • UTILITY TRAILERS

BUY ~ SELL ~ TRADE PH: 570-869-1551 Cell: 607-759-4646 4698 ST. RT. 3004

Farm Machinery For Sale

2 FORD 380 diesel engines, $1,200 for both; Mud Hog 4WD assist for combine, $1,000. 585-813-1103, 585591-0551

BIG AUGGIE 216 w/auger chute, exc. shape, $4,500.

607-279-6232 days, 607-5334850 nights

2-Gehl 970 forage wagons; Valmetel 5600 round bale chopper. 315-532-5581

Big Tractor Parts Steiger Tractor Specialist

2001 JD 7710 MFWD, 4718hrs., power quad, fresh from farm, $62,500. 3.7%Fin. Zeisloft Farm Eq. 800-9193322 2006 JOHN DEERE 6420, 4x4, cab, 16 spd. power quad w/push button 4 spd. power shift, left hand reverser, R-P axles, 100hp, Firestone radial tires, 10 front weights, 254 engine hours, same as new, $57,300. 585-393-1485

2880 Krause 9 Shank Chisel Plow Hyd., Front Coulters w/Leveler, Great Shape In Field Now

10,500 518-829-7790 $

4 USED GRAIN CARTS, Brent, Parker. Starting at $7,900. Zeisloft Eq. 800-9193322 8’ BADGER snowblower, excellent; 6-1/2’ International snowblower. New & used tires & rims of all sizes. 585-7321953 8’ SNOW PUSHER, standard quick tach, others available, 10% off thru Dec. 31st, 2011.

Pine Ridge Welding and Machine, Penn Yan, NY. 315536-2102 B&E MANUFACTURING: Kicker racks, slant bar feeders, headlock feeders, round bale carriers, low profile bale carriers. 315-536-9513

Farm Machinery For Sale

Combine Salvage

K & J Surplus 60 Dublin Rd. Lansing, NY 14882 (607) 533-4850 • (607) 279-6232

SNOW PLOW BLADES

IH 234 diesel, hydro, 2WD compact, $2,000 OBO; Gehl 3725 skid steer, gas, no attachments, $4,000 OBO. 315-536-4834 IH 361D ENGINE in-frame overhaul w/rebuilt injectors & pump, can hear run, $4,750.

315-536-7653

Ford 540 w/Heated Cab & Ford LDR 50HP Dsl ps 3pt live PTO $4,950; 4x4 Kubota 34HP Dsl, Fully Heated Cab, Hydro w/New 3pt 5’ Snowblower package $9,950; 4x4 Long 50HP Dsl $6,950; Ford NH 4630 Fully Heated Factor Cab 5560HP Dsl, Super Clean Inside & Out, Dual Outlets $11,500; 4x4 JD 4200 Heated Hard Cab 20-25HP Dsl w/JD 72” Belly Mower, “Hydro” Come & Drive it; New Quicke 980 LDR & 7’ Bkt w/Mounts to fit MF, Agco, & Challenger $4,150; Landpride RCR 2510 10’ Rotary Mower (3) Gearboxes, 540 PTO, Chain Guards, Demo, New List Over $7,400 our price $5,950; 3pt 7’ Snowblowers Good Used; PTO Generators; Lots More Tractors & Machinery In Stock

570-673-5143 HESS FARM EQUIPMENT INC. Rt. 414 2 miles East of Canton, PA

www.hessfarmequipment.com NEW IDEA 708 4WD diesel, 3300 hours, 717 combine, 713 flex head, 844 corn head, nice condition. 315-536-0798

New Skid Loader Attachments, Buckets, Pallet Forks, Manure Forks, Round Bale Grabbers, Bale Spears, Feed Pushers, Adapter Plates, Skid Steer Hitch

MARTIN’S WELDING

315-531-8672

KICKER BALE WAGONS $2,350; 8 & 10 Ton Running Gears, $1,325-$1,500; 20’ Bale Carriers, $2,750. Horst’s Welding, 585-526-5954

FANCY! 2006 J.D.7720 MFWD w/746 loader, only 1200hrs., local PA farm tractor, one owner. Both like new.

24spd., 3hyd. Both PTO. Nicest one you’ll find. Zeisloft Farm Eq. 800-919-3322

FOR SALE: John Deere 2940 4x4 with loader, 150 hours on new engine. John Deere 4040 cab, 1650 hours on rebuilt.

585-567-2306

We Rebuild Your Hydraulic Pumps, SCV Valves, Steering Valves, etc.

All Units are Bench Tested Many Used Tractor Parts Already Dismantled CALL FOR YOUR NEEDS

New Holland Hay Equipment, Round Balers, Discbines, Rakes New Holland Tractors, Skid Steers Kioti Tractors & Loaders Bush Hog Rotary Cutters, Blades H&S Manure Spreaders, Forage Boxes, Rakes Claas Rakes & Tedders

Kennedy Tractor (315) 964-1161 Williamstown, NY “We Deliver”

CASE-IH 8930 MFWD, 3hyd., both PTO, real nice one! $62,500. Zeisloft Farm Eq. 800-919-3322

February 2nd and 3rd, Hamburg, NY: New equipment for farm and forest and a used equipment auction! WNY Farm Show

• 6420 burnt • 6215 burnt • 5400 4WD burnt • 4430 qd, cab • E4020 •L4020 PS • E3020 • 3010 • 2840 • 2630 • 2010

JUST TRADED: Gleaner R62 4x4 combine w/15’ grainhead.

Priced for quick sale, $29,900.

Zeisloft Eq. 800-919-3322

1-800-982-1769

CASE 85XT skid steer, reduced to $13,500; NH LX865, 60hp, $13,500.

Zeisloft Eq. 800-919-3322

Many New Parts in Stock RECENT MODELS IN FOR SALVAGE:

NELSON PARTS 800-730-4020 315-536-3737

1. 10-25% savings on new drive train parts 2. 50% savings on used parts 3. We buy used or damaged Steigers 4. We rebuild axles, drop boxes, transmissions with one year warranty.

US or Canada American made quality parts at big savings

JOHN DEERE BALER PARTS. Winter discounts for baler repairs. New & Used hay equipment. Nelson Horning 585-526-6705

JOHN DEERE TRACTOR PARTS

MESHOPPEN, PA 18630

Farm Machinery For Sale

2000 JD 260, 4,300 hours, cab, heat, 2Spd., 78” bucket, good condition, $11,800. 315536-3176

Page 24 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

570-833-5214

Farm Machinery For Sale

JD 8420, 8200, 7920, 7700, 7405, 7210, 5500, 4955, 4560; NH 8560; Ford 8830, TW15; Case IH MX135, MX120, JX95, C80. 585-7321953

KUBOTA mini x-cavator 7000#, blade, rbr tracks, NICE, $12,500. dvburly@aol.com 585-230-3038

For Compact Tractors and Skidsteer Loaders. HP Required 20 to 50 HP sizes 5’, 6’, 7’, 8’. Comes complete with skid shoes, Cylinder & Hoses. Replaceable Cutting Edge, Quick Tach Mount, 24” Mold Board.

MFG. BY HORNING PALLET FORKS DISTRIBUTED BY:

800-879-5717 Call for Nearest Dealer

Maine To North Carolina PleasantCreekHay.com MANY IH 1066’s, 1466’s fender & cab tractors, $6,500$12,000; Du-al loader, $1,500.

518-677-2854 NEW AND USED PARTS for New Holland 770, 782, 790, 890, 892, 900, FP230, FP240.

John Deere 3940, 3950, 3955, 3960, 3970, 3975. NEW Horning crop processors.

NEW & USED New Holland baler parts & service. Closed Sundays. 607-243-8151

MACK ENTERPRISES Randolph, NY

(716) 358-3006 • (716) 358-3768 Ship UPS Daily www.w2r.com/mackenterprises/

New & Used Tractor & Logging Equipment Parts

PEOPLE WILL PAY TO HUNT on your land. Earn top $$$ for hunting rights. Call for a FREE quote and info packet toll free 1-866-309-1507 or request at www.BaseCampLeasing.com PRICES REDUCED on all combines in stock! Zeisloft Farm Eq. 800-919-3322 RECONDITIONED 4-6-8R 7000 and 7200 planters. Also, one and two row sweetcorn, vegetable, pumpkin planters w/JD Max-Emerge. FrameMount no-till coulters. Custom b u i l d p l a n t e r s . Pe q u e a Planter, 717-442-4406

Sell Your Items Through Reader Ads P.O. Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

1-800-836-2888 classified@leepub.com Farm Machinery For Sale

Farm Machinery Wanted

Smiley’s Equipment

WANTED

JD 4630, nice, $12,500; JD tractor & ldr, compact, $10,500; Hesston 4x4 & cab, $7,500; White 4x4 w/cab, 135hp, nice, $12,500; Int. 4x4, $10,500; David Brown, $3,500; new dump trailer, $5,000; 9 ton trailer, $1,500; Baler, $2,000; Round Baler $1,500; Corn Picker, $1,500; Corn & Flail Choppers, $1,200 up; ‘08 Dodge 4x4 pickup, $16,500; ‘99 Ford pickup, $2,000; IH dsl dump truck, $2,500; Brush Hogs, Discs, Harrows, Plows & more. Excavator, $12,500; Case 450 Dozer, $8,500; JD 350C Dozer, $11,500; White 4x4 ldrhoe, $9,500; Case ldrhoe, $6,000.

BUYING MACHINES DEAD OR ALIVE

518-634-2310 SUPER SHARP JD 6420 IVT, cab, MFWD, like new, 1500hrs., one of a kind, one owner, retired, $59,500.

Zeisloft Eq. 800-919-3322 USED BATWING mowers, 15’ & 20’, Woods, Bushog, JD. Zeisloft Farm Eq. 800-9193322 VERY NICE J.D.6400, cab, low hours, local farm, only raked hay. Zeisloft Eq. 800919-3322

John Deere 5460, 5820, or 5830 Choppers

814-793-4293 Feed, Seed, Grain & Corn

Custom Roasting and Cooling Your Soybeans,Corn, etc.

At Your Farm or Mill Serving All of NY State

WEILER’S GRAIN ROASTING

Fencing

SHAMROCK FARMS (585) FENCING 669-2179

DAN FITZPATRICK

8408 CARNEY HOLLOW RD., WAYLAND, NY 14572 Sales & Installations Building Since 1981

YOUR SOURCE FOR:

Buying Corn, Feed Wheat & Oats

(315)) 549-82266 Romulus, NY 14541

• Posts • Board • Split Rail • HT Wire • Vinyl • Energizers

E FARM FENCE & SUPPLY EMPIR “Miles of Quality Start Here”

• High Tensile • Split Rail • Misc. Types of Fence • Energizers • Fencing Supplies

4097 Rt. 34B, Union Springs, NY 13160 RUSTIN WILSON

(315) 364-5240

Improve Your Farm Efficiency

ALL TYPES OF FENCES Quali Guara ty nteed

(315) 549-7081 • Livestock Feeds • Ration Balancing • SeedWay Seeds • Crystalyx Products

Fencing

Heavy Duty Galvanized Gates

Cyclops Energizers Made in USA

BOARD • VINYL • WOVEN WIRE • HI TENSILE Serving The Northeast

E&A Fence LLC 518-993-5177

WANTED

771 St. Hwy 163, Fort Plain, NY

165, 175, 265, 275, 285 Any Condition

www.countryfolks.com • Visit Our Online • • Classified Section! •

Massey Ferguson 814-793-4293 WANTED: Moldy or dusty corn for corn furnace. Can haul. Ontario County,NY. 585704-0687

Feed, Seed, Grain & Corn

Feed, Seed, Grain & Corn

Feed, Seed, Grain & Corn

Feed, Seed, Grain & Corn

For Sale

R & R FENCING LLC

PUREBRED Light Gray Flemish giant rabbits, (2) lt. gray giant doe chinchillas. 585567-2306

• • • •

Equine Livestock Post Driving Pasture & Paddock Design

Grain Handling Equip.

Bins & Dryers

BRIAN ROSS

585-599-3489

9479 Alleghany Rd Corfu NY 14036 15 Years of Professional Fencing Installations “Quality You Can Trust”

NEW AND USED Grain Dryers: GT, MC, GSI. Call anytime toll free 1-877-422-0927 GRAIN DRYER 2007 Top Dry 10,000 Bushel, like new, Batch or continuous flow. 716 998-6081

Fertilizer & Fertilizer Spreading

LIME Kersch’s Ag

585-322-7778 585-734-0003

GYPSUM

Do You Grow or Sell Fruits, Vegetables, Greenhouse or Nursery Crops?

If You Answered Yes You May be Interested in Our

Country Folks Grower T M T P F C H HE

ONTHLY RADE

APER

OR

OMMERCIAL

ORTICULTURE

CALL

888-596-5329 For a Free Sample Feed, Seed, Grain & Corn

Feed, Seed, Grain & Corn

“BUYERS OF GRAIN” “Call for Market Information and Bids” 518-272-7212 or 800-833-3636 Clayton Charles - Ext. 131 - Corn • John Maloy - Ext. 102 - Soybeans Matt White - Ext. 115 - Oats

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 25

WNY Farm Show Workshops: Gas rights leasing, woodland management, and more!

February 2nd and 3rd, Hamburg, NY.

Fencing

Sell Your Items Through Reader Ads P.O. Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

1-800-836-2888 classified@leepub.com Grain Handling Equip.

Bins & Dryers

Grain Handling Equip.

Bins & Dryers

Help Wanted

Hay - Straw Wanted

WRITERS WANTED

A N MARTIN GRAIN SYSTEMS 315-923-9118

Clyde, NY

WE SPECIALIZE IN • Sukup Grain Bins • Dryers • Grain Legs • Custom Mill Righting

Help Wanted

• Hopper Feed Bins • Transport Augers • Crane Service • Dryer Service

Country Folks is looking for self-motivated free-lance writers to contribute to their weekly agricultural paper.

Knowledge of the industry a must.

Articles could include educational topics as well as feature articles.

Please send resume to Joan Kark-Wren jkarkwren@leepub.com or call 518-673-0141

WANTED

Hay - Straw For Sale

Hay - Straw For Sale

1st & 2nd CUT HAY & OAT STRAW, Large square bales, processed. 716-474-3973

ONTARIO DAIRY HAY & STRAW

BEDDING HAY, $100/Ton; Dry shelled corn, $12/per hundred weight. Mike Franklin 607-749-3424 HAY FOR SALE: 4x5 dry wrapped bales. Larchar Farms, 607-847-8393

Quality Alfalfa Grass Mix Lg. Sq. - 1st, 2nd & 3rd Cut

Call for Competitive Prices

WANTED: 1st & 2nd cut big & small squares. 315-363-9105

Help Wanted

Horses

Heating

PATTERSON FARMS

4 year old Reg. black Percheron stallion, top bloodlines. 315-406-1105

Is Looking for a Self Motivated Team Player to Join Our Team If you are a Jack or Jill of all things, we are looking for you. Repairs, crop, dairy animals and manure. Positive attitude a must and Class A license helpful.

Please Call Jon at

Help Wanted

1st, 2nd & 3rd Cut Hay

ALWAYS WANTED

STRAW

TIMOTHY MIXED HAY ALFALFA MIXED HAY 1st, 2nd & 3rd Cuttings Also Small Square Mulch

519-482-5365

Call 4M FARMS 315-684-7570 • 315-559-3378

Hay - Straw Wanted

Hay - Straw Wanted

Help Wanted

Page 26 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Also Square Bales of

CALL STEVE

Hay - Straw Wanted

Rt. 38 & 38B, Newark Valley, NY

607-642-3293

Parts & Repair

IH TRACTOR SALVAGE PARTS BATES CORPORATION 12351 Elm Rd BOURBON, IN 46504

New, Used & Rebuilt We Ship Anywhere CHECK OUT OUR MONTHLY WEB SPECIALS!

1-800-248-2955

Employment OpportunityAgricultural business in Wayne County, NY seeking a conscientious individual to do application of fertilizer and pesticides to farm fields as well as other duties. CDL license, some mechanical ability, and pesticide applicators license a plus. Full time position with benefits. Call 315-374-5847

Wet and Dry

GOODRICH TRACTOR PARTS

Our Web Address: www.batescorp.com

HAY SAVER Plus Hay Preservative, 68% Propionic Acid.

87¢ per pound. Product available in Waterloo, NY. Delivery Available. Conoy Ag, Elizabethtown, PA 717-367-5078

Round & Square Bales

Case-JD-IHC Crawlers Case-JD-Ford-IHC TLB’s Case-JD-Wheel Loaders Skid Loader Parts SPECIAL: MultiKey Construction Sets $45

Call the IH Parts Specialists:

519-529-1141

Farmer to Farmer

PARTS FOR CONSTRUCTION & AGRICULTURE

We Pick Up & Pay Cell 717-222-2304 Buyers & Sellers

NEEB AGRI-PRODUCTS

H AY

NEW, USED & RECONDITIONED

Hay & Straw - All Types

ALSO CERTIFIED ORGANIC Low Potassium for Dry Cows

Parts

315-729-0438

STARTERS, ALTERNATORS, and GENERATORS for all domestic and import engines.

Also HIGH TORQUE DIESEL STARTERS. Prompt Service 315-826-7892 Gary Sneath

Professional Services

5 YEAR OLD Belgian Gelding, 17.2hh, Sorrel, light M&T, well broke, traffic safe. 315-6882853

Custom Heifer Raising 150 Head capacity; complete service for quality raised heifers in Northern Tioga County Pa. 5 miles south of the New York border. Brubaker Dairy Farm 814-367-5062

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous

FOSTER/ADOPTIVE PARENTS NEEDED

Horse Equipment THREE-SEATER Bob Sleigh, medium size, rebuilt runners, new bed. Can be used by single draft or pole for team. Erin C. Lundy 315-493-1051

Help Wanted

Hillside Children's Center is looking for parents to provide short or long-term care for local youth. Generous daily stipend and ongoing support provided. Visit www.hillside.com/fostercare today to find out more.

Real Estate For Sale

TOP MARKET PRICES PAID For Quality Hay in 2 String Bales Looking for Long Term Supply Paid for On Scale

Also Buying All Grades of Hay and Straw in 2 String or Large Square Bales

Nick Fitzpatrick 845-901-1892 or 845-609-7315

FARMS FOR SALE Alltech is currently looking for a Territory Sales Representative with a strong dairy background for Pennsylvania. Alltech sales people are highly motivated professionals who provide a natural link between marketing, research and the customer. Alltech ranks among the top 10 animal health companies in the world. The company has experienced consistent growth since it was founded in 1980. Headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, Alltech has a presence in over 110 countries with distributors around the world.

Today it employs 2,600 people and growth continues at a rate of 20 percent.

Key responsibilities include: Regularly visit our industry partners (feed companies, consulting nutritionists, veterinarians, producers, government agencies, etc) across the territory to manage existing relationships while cultivating new relationships Drive sales by identifying customer needs and finding solutions Attend industry events and tradeshows to showcase Alltech in a positive, professional manner

The ideal candidate should have: A strong technical background: BSc, MSc or higher Strong verbal and written communication skills Interest and experience in the animal health or nutrition industries Self-motivated and proactive A valid driver’s license E-mail resumé and cover letter to: mgast@alltech.com

CLOSING DATE: JAN. 1, 2012

adenbrook.com

Help Wanted

Alltech | Pennsylvania 1860 Charter Lane, Suite 203 Lancaster, PA 17601 Fax: 717-393-9774 • mgast@allltech.com

Go to our website fingerlakesrealestate.com

SELLING A FARM Call us at 315-729-3672 Ask for Richard Schmidt We have buyers looking for farms to buy in NY RE/MAX Masters 16 Jordan St., Skaneateles, NY Office 315-685-4788

Sell Your Items Through Reader Ads P.O. Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

1-800-836-2888 classified@leepub.com Real Estate For Sale

Real Estate For Sale

POSSON REALTY LLC 787 Bates-Wilson Road Norwich, NY 13851

(607) 334-9727 Cell 607-316-3758 www.possonrealty.com possonrealty@frontiernet.net David C. Posson, Broker

Richard E. Posson, Associate Broker

All of us here at Posson Realty LLC wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

2299 - Very Nice Home - Montgomery County Dairy Farm - 110 acres of beautiful land. 70 acres tillable in 2 fields that lie flat to gently rolling. Exceptional soils, well drained, high lime. Balance woods. Good 2 story Dairy barn with 45 stalls and a side addition with 25 additional stalls for young stock. Good 4 bay shop and garage. Very nice remodeled 5 bedroom home with 1 1/2 baths. Has been completely remodeled top to bottom. With new siding, windows, and an oil fired furnace. This is a nice little farm with exceptional buildings and land. Owners have retired and have no family to take the farm over. They have reduced their original Asking price of $400,000 now to $350,000. They would like to sell this good farm before spring. All offers will be considered. #2302 - Otsego County Free stall Operation. Buildings for 300 head.

Double 8 milking parlor, 3,000 gallon bulk tank, large concrete pad for feed storage. Good 2 story 4 bdrm home. All situated on 70 acres of land w/40+/- acres tillable, gravel loem soils w/lots of additional land to rent reasonable. Great location. Mins from Cooperstown or Oneonta. Farm would work well for dairy although buildings are conducive for horses and beef. Farm has 2 trout streams. Excellent deer and turkey hunting. Nice area to live and farm. Priced to sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Asking $245,000

Real Estate For Sale

Seeds YES WE HAVE SEED CORN Conventional, GT, 3000GT, CB/LL, GT/CB/LL, Viptera, Waxy 866-471-9465 request@gristmillinc.com

Real Estate For Sale

#2272 - On the River - Minutes from the Adirondack Park. No Better Location for Roadside Sales. Located on the Beautiful West Canada Creek. Herkimer County 123 acre Gentleman's Farm. Exceptional soils. 50 acres tillable. Silt Loem. High organic matter and premier vegetable soil.

20 acres of pasture in good fence. Balance woods. Lots of firewood.

Awesome hunting. 2 story dairy barn w/65 tie stalls. Enclosed manure room. Side addition for 20 additional heifers. Large drive-in hay mow 10,000 bale capacity. Good 60x80 machinery building w/8x14 cooler for vegetables. Good 28x48 Greenhouse with water and power. Nice 2 story 3 bdrm home with a large attached 2 car garage. New windows and furnace.

Farm is currently used for roadside sales of beef, hogs, and veggies but could be Dairy again. Over 1500 ft of frontage on West Canada Creek.

Awesome fishing and kayaking. Reduced from $320,000 to $300,000 2279 - Madison County, Near Brookfield State Lands. Good little buy on a good little farm. 18 surveyed acres mostly tillable. Beautiful year round trout stream. 2 story barn with 50 stalls. Milking equipment still intact. Patz barn cleaner. Good 40x80 machinery building. Additional older 2 story barn with side addition for storage. Remodeled 2 story home. Good 2 car garage. Farm is close to the beautiful Brookfield State Forest and the Equine trail system with over 300 miles of trails for riding horses. Close to snow mobile and ATV trails, great hunting and fishing. Nice little farm to raise a few horses or beef. Farm is reasonably priced to sell. Asking $140,0000 Owner would consider fair offer.

2307- Herkimer County - 100+/- acres all wooded, good amount of road frontage. Power and telephone. Year round stream. Awesome deer & turkey hunting. Mins from the Adirondack Park. Mins from I90, hour to Albany. This is a very nice area of the Mohawk Valley region. Seller is a retiring dairy farmer from the area. Looking to downsize his land base. Would like to sell before spring. Reduced from $110,000 to $90,000 for this good property. This is an AWESOME buy anywhere! Make an appointment to see this property soon.

70+/- acres close to I81 Half tillable half woods, excellent soils, phenomenal hunting, and lots of road frontage. Being sold with mineral rights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Asking $1440,000

Tires & Tire Repair Service

Silos, Repairs, Silo Equipment NORTHEAST SILO DEMO: Need a cheap, quick & easy way to get your silo down?

Will travel, give us a call. 518568-3560

REPLACEMENT SILO DOORS & HARDWARE AGRI-DOOR Jake Stoltzfus 649 South Ramona Rd. Myerstown, PA 17067

717-949-2034 Toll-free 1-877-484-4104 W A R E H O U S E R E TA I L STORE totalling 14,000 sq.ft.

Village of Hilton, Monroe County,NY. Sitting on 2 acres, paved & fenced in parking, additional tennant income included. 585-392-7692

• Sales & Installation • On The Farm Service • A Large Parts Inventory • Willing to Travel for Service Work • 7 Days a Week, Parts & Service • Financing Available

NEEDED FOR THE SPRING of 2012: Dairy Farm to Rent or Lease for 60+cows with pasture. Current farm becoming too small. 518-321-0889. Best time to call 7-9pm

3626 Brown St., Collins, NY 14034 Shop - (716) 532-2040 Eves & Weekends (716) 532-2919

Roofing

Roofing

SOLLENBERGER SILOS, LLC, 5778 Sunset Pike, Chambersburg, PA 17201. Poured Concrete silos since 1908, Manure Storage and Precast Products. For Information: Ken Mansfield 717-503-8909 www.sollenbergersilos.com “1908-2008” Celebrating 100 Years

ART TIMMEL

ROOFING & SIDING BUY DIRECT – We manufacture Metal Roofing & Siding.

ABM & ABX Panel - Standing Seam - PBR Panel LOW PRICES - FAST DELIVERY – FREE LITERATURE

A.B. MARTIN ROOFING SUPPLY, LLC

www.abmartin.net • Email: sales@abmartin.net

3165 Route 246 Perry, NY 14530 585-237-2124

CALL FOR YOUR PRICING NEEDS Your Firestone Farm Tire Headquarters

• Radial • Implement • Bias • Flotation

• Front • Rice & Cane • Rear • Specialty

TIRE SALE 1pr. Firestone 18.4-30 8 ply, 90% . . . . .$1,000 pr.

1pr. Firestone 16.9-38 6 ply, 90% . . . . .$1,000 pr.

1pr. Firestone 18.4-34 6 ply, 90% . . . . .$1,000 pr.

1pr. Michelin 16.9R30 Radial 90% . . .$2,100 pr.

1pr. Michelin 12.4R24 Radial 70% . . .$1,000 pr.

1pr. Goodyear 320-85R34 Radial 70% . . .$1,000 pr.

1pr. Goodyear 320-90R50 Radial 70% . . .$1,100 pr.

Ph. 315-536-4783 Tractor Parts NEW AND USED TRACTOR PARTS: John Deere 10,20,30,40 series tractors.

Allis Chalmers, all models.

Large inventory! We ship.

Mark Heitman Tractor Salvage, 715-673-4829

Tractors, Parts & Repair FOR SALE: Farm machinery parts and older tractor parts.

DON’s PLACE, formerly Knapp’s. 585-346-5777

Trailers TEITSWORTH TRAILERS: Over 400 in stock now! PJ Goosenecks, Dumps, Tilt Tops, Landscape, Car Haulers, Skid Steer & more.

Best prices, largest selection.

585-243-1563

Trucks 1998 INTERNATIONAL 4900, DT466, single axle, 6 speed, 6 year old 18’ Allstar silage body, hydraulic tailgate, grain chute, very good condition, $19,500. 315-727-1290 2004 DODGE crew cab 4x4, 5.9 Cummins diesel, automatic, 59,500 miles, 8’ box, 5th wheel hitch, tonneau cover, fully loaded, new tires & brakes, no rust, like new. $24,500. 315-727-1290

Trucks The NEW

SILO Corp.

Calendar of Events WEST NOTE: Calendar entries must arrive at the Country Folks office by the Tuesday prior to our publication date for them to be included in the calendar of events. Email: jkarkwren@leepub.com

DEC 27-30, JAN 3-6, 7 & 8 Trade a Tree Program After Christmas this year, trade in your old tree for a free Seedling! The Cayuga County Trade A Tree program offers residents an opportunity to recycle their Christmas trees in exchange for a Douglas Fir transplant.

Your old tree will be turned into mulch and you receive a coupon to pick up a transplant in the spring.

Seedlings will be available for pickup on Fri., May 4, 2012 from 8 am to 6 pm at the Natural Resource Center at 7413 County House Rd., Auburn, NY. Christmas Trees can be dropped off at the Natural Resource Center on the following dates: • 2011 - Dec. 27-30 - 8 am - 4 pm.

• 2012 - Jan. 3-6 - 8 am - 4 pm.

• Jan. 7 - 8 am - noon.

• Jan. 9-13 - 8 am - 4 pm.

Contact Natural Resource Center, 315-252-4171 ext 3.

JAN 5 Building a Farm Website and Social Network CCE of Ontario County, 480 North Main St., Canandaigua, NY. 6:30-8:30 pm. $15/farm, feel free to bring questions and ideas you have about having a farm website. Contact Nancy Anderson, 585-394-3977 ext. 427 or send name, address & phone number to nea8@cornell.edu.

JAN 5 & 19, FEB 2 & 16, MAR 1, 15 & 29, APR 12 Farm Business Planning Course Ithaca, NY. All classes 6-9 pm. Cost: Sliding scale, $80 - $300 Application required.

Visit www.groundswellcenter.org for online application.

For more information e-mail info@groundswellcenter.org.

JAN 6-7 New York State Maple Conference Verona NY. Contact Keith Schiebel, e-mail kschiebel@ vvsschools.org. On Internet at www.cornellmaple.com JAN 11 2012 Madison County Crop Congress Empire Tractor, Route 20, Cazenovia, NY. 9:30 am - 3 pm. The day long meeting gives central New York crop and dairy farmers the opportunity to update themselves on new diseases, insects,

Trucks

Martin’s Farm Trucks, LLC

Trucks for All Your Needs - Specializing in Agri-Business Vehicles

Arcade, N.Y.

(585) 492-1300 • Precast Bunk Silos 6’x8” to 13’-4” High • Silo Repair Service • Salt Storage Structures

Ephrata, PA 1-800-373-3703 N e w v i l l e , PA 1-800-782-2712

Full line Pole Building material. ~ Lumber - Trusses - Plywood.

FARM AND FLEET TIRE SERVICE

Tires & Tire Repair Service

11’ center wall

10’ side wall

13’4” side wall

11’T wall

2004 FL M2 SA C&C 3126 Cat 210hp, 6spd, Air Brakes, Spring Susp, 33,000 GVW, 220k mi, Several to choose from $16,900

Eager Beaver 20 Ton Pintle 21’ flat, 6’ Tail, 6’ Ramps, 102” Wide, Air Brakes, 5 D-Rings Per Side $9,900

888-497-0310

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 27

Real Estate Wanted

Services Offered

Real Estate For Sale

Sell Your Items Through Reader Ads P.O. Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

1-800-836-2888 classified@leepub.com Trucks

legislation and products available Pesticide re-certification credits have been applied for and it is anticipated that 2.5 credits will be awarded. Lunch will be provided. Preregistration is required by Jan. 6. Contact CCE of Madison County, 315-684-3001 ext 106.

Special Farm Family Relationships Webinar 3 pm. EST. “Dealing with the complexity of family and business relationships that exist on family owned farms,” the webinar will cover these discussion points: • Estate Planning - active and non-active family members in the farm business; • Farm Transition - ownership and control; • Organization - multiple family members working together; and • Exit strategies for the retiring farmer without a successor.

Question should be submitted to c.merry@agconsultants.org at least 10 days prior to the event.

JAN 11-14 National No Tillage Conference St. Louis, MO. Registration is $279/person, with a special $252 rate for additional farm or family members. On Internet at www.NoTillConference.com JAN 14 Western NY Maple School CCE of Wyoming County, 401 North Main St., Warsaw NY. Call 585-786-2251 or email djw275@cornell.edu.

Trucks

1 (2)) 19855 FREUHAUFF 80000 GALLON N ALUMINUM M TANKS,, on hub pilot rim and 23’ boom, field spread or nurse. Very Sharp!

Call 585-734-3264

Pines 45x96 Walking Floor Trailer, Swing Doors, Roll-Over Tarp, Cheap! Priced To Sell Or Trade

1995 Steco Walking Floor Trailer, Roll-Over Tarp, Cheap!

Priced To Sell Or Trade

Trojan 1900 Articulating Loader, Detroit Power, Heat, Lights, Wiper, Runs Excellent, Cheap! Great Snow Machine Priced To Sell Or Trade

2001 International 4900 DT466, 6 Spd. Trans., 33,000 GVW, Air Brakes, Double Frame, Southern Truck, No Rust, Cheap! Price To Sell Or Trade

ADVANTAGE TRUCKS (716) 685-6757 www.advantagetrucks.com

WE DELIVER

“Exporters Welcome”

Trucks

JAN 14, FEB 11 & MAR 10 Corning Winter Farmers’ Market 1 West Market St., Corning, NY. Contact Market Manager, 607-759-7665.

JAN 17 Maple Production for the Beginner CCE Ontario Co., 480 North Main St., Canandaigua, NY. 6:30-8:30 pm. Contact CCE, 585-394-3977 ext. 427 or 436 or e-mail nea8@cornell .edu with your name, address & phone number.

Stability Amidst Volatility: Growing Crops and Feeding Livestock The Century House, 997 Rte 9 Latham, NY. 9 am - 3:30 pm. Topic include skills to use the commodity markets, dairy rations insulated from market volatility, business skills needed in a volatile economy, managing crops in adverse environments, high forage rations; snaplage, BMR corn silage, growing your own grain, crop insur-

1.

2905 Simpson Rd., Caledonia, NY

585-538-4395 • 1-800-311-2880 Since 1982

Just 1 mile south of Route 20 on 36 south

PHONE IT IN

JAN 27 & 28 4th Annual Winter Greenup Grazing Conference Century House Hotel & Conference Center, Route 9, Latham, NY. This year’s conference will feature speakers on Wye Angus genetics, grazing behavior, branding your farm’s products, leasing land to graze, extending the grazing season and more. Contact Lisa Cox, 518-765-3512.

FOR BEST RESULTS, RUN YOUR AD FOR TWO ISSUES!

Just give Peggy a call at 1-800-836-2888

IT IN - For MasterCard, Visa, 2. FAX American Express or Discover customers,

Cost per week per zone: $9.25 for the first 14 words, plus 30¢ for each additional word.

(Phone #’s count as one word) If running your ad multiple weeks: Discount $1.00 per week, per zone.

fill out the form below completely and FAX to Peggy at (518) 673-2381 MAIL IT IN - Fill out the attached form,

3. calculate the cost, enclose your check or credit card information and mail to: Country Folks Classifieds, PO Box 121, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

4.

“The Diesel People!”

JAN 25-26 Northeast Pasture Consortium (NEPC) Annual Meeting Century House Hotel & Conference Center, Latham, NY. Topics are nutrient management, silvopasture, results from grazing trials and more.

Contact Becky Casteel, 304293-2565 or e-mail becky .casteel@mail.wvu.edu

5 Easy Ways To Place A Country Folks Classified Ad

CALEDONIA DIESEL, LLC TRUCK & EQUIPMENT SALES & SERVICE

ance and LGM-Dairy insurance. $45 pre-registration due by Jan 12. Contact Gale Kohler, 518-765-3500 or gek4@cornell.edu or Aaron Gabriel, 518-380-1496 or adg12@cornell.edu.

JAN 20-22 NOFA-NY Annual Conference: The Cooperative Economy Saratoga Hilton & City Center, Saratoga Springs, NY. Contact Katie Nagle-Caraluzzo, 585-271-1979 ext.

512 or e-mail register@ nofany.org.

JAN 22-24 The National Mastitis Council (NMC) 51st Annual Meeting TradeWinds Island Grand Resort, 5500 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL. For dairy professionals from around the world to exchange current information on udder health, mastitis control, milking management and milk quality. Call 727-3676461.

On Internet at www.nmconline.org

5.

West

E-MAIL E-mail your ad to classified@leepub.com Mid-Atlantic ON-LINE - Go to www.countryfolks.com and follow the Place a Classified Ad button to place your ad 24/7!

Place my ad in the following zones: Country Folks East Country Folks West Country Folks of New England Country Folks Mid-Atlantic Farm Chronicle Number of weeks to run_______

East

New England

Name: (Print)________________________________________________________________ Farm/Company Name: ________________________________________________________ Street: _________________________________________ County: ____________________ 2000 Peterbilt 379 Winch Truck Cummins 500hp, 13 speed, Air lift 3rd axle, 972k miles, Tusla 45,000# winch w/tail roller, Rubber 90% 24.5’s on aluminum $35,900

2003 Kawasaki 60Z V Wheel Loader, 4532 Hrs, cab with heat & A/C, JRB quick coupler, 2 1/4 CY Bucket, Forks Available. $48,500

(Qty 2) 2006 Mack CH613 Daycabs 427hp, 10 speed, 44k rears, wetlines, Rubber 90%, aluminum wheels, 177” wheelbase, very clean trucks. $34,500 each

City: __________________________________________ State: ________ Zip: __________ Phone #_____________________Fax #________________Cell #_____________________ e-mail address: _____________________________________________________________ Payment Method: Check/Money Order American Express Discover Visa MasterCard Card # __________________________________________Exp. Date __________________ (MM/YY)

Name On Credit Card:(Print)____________________________________________________ Signature: ________________________________________ Todays Date: ______________

Page 28 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

(for credit card payment only)

2001 Freightliner FL80 Cab & Chassis 310hp Cat, Allison Automatic, 18k front axle, 46k rears, 16’ of double frame behind cab, 60,000 miles, auto-lube system $34,000

2003 Peterbilt 357 Cab & Chassis Cummins 305hp, Allison Automatic, 20k front axle, 46k full locking rears, 16’ 8” of frame behind the cab, 189k miles. $55,000

2008 Mack Pinnacle CXU613 Daycab 445hp, 18 speed, 364k miles, 14,600# front axle, 46k full locking rears, 222” wheelbase, wetline, polished aluminum wheels. $58,950

Please check our Web site @ www.caledoniadiesel.com

15 1 Week $9.55 per zone / 2+ Weeks $8.55 per zone per week 2006 Deere 310G 4x4 Backhoe, EROPS, Extenda-hoe, 2050 Hrs. Excellent Condition $46,950

2002 Mack CH613 Day Cab 460hp, 18 speed, 14,600# front axle, 46k rears, double frame, good rubber, 527k miles. $27,900

John Deere 9500 4WD, 30.5x32’s at 90%, Straw Spreader, 3794 Sep. Hours. $25,500

16

17

18

1 Week $9.85 per zone / 2+ Weeks $8.85 per zone per week 1 Week $10.15 per zone / 2+ Weeks $9.15 per zone per week 1 Week $10.45 per zone / 2+ Weeks $9.45 per zone per week

19

20

21

1 Week $10.75 per zone / 2+ Weeks $9.75 per zone per week 1 Week $11.05 per zone / 2+ Weeks $10.05 per zone per week 1 Week $11.35 per zone / 2+ Weeks $10.35 per zone per week

22

23

24

1 Week $11.65 per zone / 2+ Weeks $10.65 per zone per week 1 Week $11.95 per zone / 2+ Weeks $10.95 per zone per week 1 Week $12.25 per zone / 2+ Weeks $11.25 per zone per week

25

26

27

1 Week $12.55 per zone / 2+ Weeks $11.55 per zone per week 1 Week $12.85 per zone / 2+ Weeks $11.85 per zone per week 1 Week $13.15 per zone / 2+ Weeks $12.15 per zone per week 2006 Deere 450J LT Dozer 1267 hours, OROPS, good U/C, 6 way blade, very clean machine $39,950

2007 Case 621D Wheel Loader, 3045 hrs, GP bucket, JRB coupler, good rubber, cab with heat. $73,950

40-45 ft. Aluminum Grain Hopper Trailers in stock and arriving weekly.

Prices Starting at $22,500

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29

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1 Week $13.45 per zone / 2+ Weeks $12.45 per zone per week 1 Week $13.75 per zone / 2+ Weeks $12.75 per zone per week 1 Week $14.05 per zone / 2+ Weeks $13.05 per zone per week

Fellowship of Christian Farmers Mission trip to Reality Ranch

by Steve Hutton, Holland Patent, NY What did I find on a mission trip with The Fellowship of Christian Farmers?

We spent a week in early November at a ranch in central Florida. I must say that I found sun and heat. Coming from upstate New York, even with the mild fall that we’ve had, it felt good. Reality Ranch is home to many different ministries and is run by a humble quadriplegic man, Pastor Randy Johnson and his parents who are in their eighties. He sponsors a rodeo once a month for school age kids. Randy serves as the Florida State Rodeo High School Chaplain. In Florida, rodeo is a high school sport and very popular.

This was the second year that FCFI has volunteered at the ranch. There were plenty of different types of work; the team built a pole barn (12 x 100-

foot) to be used for stabling rodeo horses, bleacher seat replacement and painting (over 15 gallons of paint were used), pressure washing of lots of buildings, cement work, assorted cleaning and painting, wood board fence building and doubling the size of a garage for Pastor Randy to park his handicap accessible van. Of course with all the hard work comes a need for hearty meals. A couple of mission trip ladies did a great job keeping the volunteers well fed.

I certainly enjoyed the work, good food and fellowship. We worked full days, starting at 7 a.m. and trying to finish around 5 p.m. After our evening meal we had a delightful devotional service in the small, cozy chapel located on the ranch. Most evenings Pastor Randy shared life experiences to encourage and challenge us in our daily

walk with the Lord. The ladies stayed at a home near the ranch and the guys got to experience real cowboy life by sleeping in a bunk house. It was not all work as each evening the guys enjoyed each other’s company by playing a few hands of cards before settling in for a much needed night’s sleep.

The Ranch serves as home to “Cowboy Church” held each Sunday morning. The ranch is appropriately named “Reality Ranch” as it certainly gets you grounded in reality and what is truly important in our lives. The team was there to help and we did.

Emphasis was placed on caring and unity. Fourteen volunteers from all across the U.S. and Canada served with joy. At 53, I was on the young side but found that these older folks sure know how to work. Bill Brown, area leader for FCFI, seemed to be able to come up with work to accommodate the various abilities of the team members.

On this trip I found sun, heat, great fellowship, good food and a sense of thankfulness. It was a well spent “vacation.” If you’d like to join us next year give Bill a call at 315736-5964. The dates are already set for Nov. 4-10. If you’d like to experience a life changing week, this is it.

Joyce Kitchen, Vernon Center, NY, puts a new coat of paint on the bull riding chutes.

The ranch hosts rodeos throughout the school year and also uses the facilities for theraputic riding classes.

The nearly finished building. Next year’s group will add another 100 feet to the building.

New York FCFI Outreach meetings

The group takes a few minutes off for a photo at Reality Ranch. Pastor Randy Johnson, founder of the ministry is in front. Members came from New York, Indiana, Illinois, Florida, Pennsylvania and Ontario, Canada.

need to accept Christ as their savior.

Pastor Andreas shared from his heart each evening challenging those in attendance with the following question.

“Are you a convenient Christian or a committed Christian?” Certainly a question for each of us to consider, what would your answer be? He also shared the need for all of us to become involved in reaching the lost for Christ and after all is said and done, which is really all that matters. However, sometimes there’s a lot more said than is done! He also challenged those present that “FCFI is worthy of financial support.” FCFI thanks Pastor Rob and his wife Sue for their commitment to FCFI.

Outreach meetings were held the last of September at three FCFI chapters in New York. Pastor Rob Andreas from Olcott, NY, served as keynote speaker, shown here speaking at the Mountain Valley Chapter Meeting in Delhi, NY.

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 29

Reality Ranch — Miles Pratt, Zolfo Springs, FL; John Waterman, Stittville, NY; Cliff Kitchen, Vernon Center, NY and Joe Smith, Westernville, NY, start working on a new horse corral facility. This building will be used for overnight stays by participants at the rodeos.

Several New York chapters held Outreach meetings the last part of September. Chapters serving as hosts for these dinner meetings were the Mountain Valley (Delhi) Northern NY (Adams Center) and Mohawk Valley (Utica). Each meeting started with a wonderful meal and followed with reports of chapter and national FCFI news.

The keynote speaker each evening came to us from Olcott, NY. Pastor Rob Andreas serves as a missionary with Church Planters to America and is very familiar with our purpose after working at local fairs for over 10 years representing FCFI. Under his guidance, over 1,900 people have responded to the

Fellowship of Christian Farmers ECHO Mission trip “Or what man is there of you, whom if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?” Matthew 7:9. Twelve members of FCFI spent the week of Oct. 27- Nov. 2 at ECHO (Educational Concerns for World Hunger Organization) located at North Fort Myers, FL. ECHO exists for one major reason, “to help those working internationally with the poor be more effective, especially in the area of agriculture!”

“Teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime.”

It’s one thing to share the gospel with those around the world, but they listen more intently when they have food to sustain themselves and their families.

ECHO is such an organization and therefore the reason FCFI has partnered with them for a week each year for the last five years. You can check out this great organization on the web at echonet.org.

Our group was made up of folks ranging in age from 14 to 75. There’s always

work on FCFI mission trips for everyone no matter the age or skill level and ECHO is no different. We were greeted by sunny, warm (not too hot) weather the entire week. A couple of showers did little to slow work down. Many tasks were accomplished during our stay at ECHO. Buildings went up, painting took place, lots of cleaning and just plain, much needed maintenance. There is no better way to explain our work there than through pictures.

Please take a few minutes to view them.

Maybe you’ve been considering a mission trip but have been concerned about safety, travel expenses to a foreign country or simply need to take a step of faith? ECHO might be just the trip for you. Next year’s trip is scheduled for Oct. 27 - Nov. 3. We’d love to have you join us. Contact Bill and Kathy Brown at 315-736-5964. It’s never too late in life to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate.

Building a new chemical storage facility for the ECHO research farm. Jan Barendse, Utica, NY and Ron Herrold, Westville, IN, starting the frame work.

John Waterman, Stittville, NY and Paul Davidson, Barneveld, NY replacing an old stairway in the farm shop at ECHO.

Page 30 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

Farm Show report

Jesus in Luke 15:10 says this about our faith “Likewise, I say unto you, there is more joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” That alone should be enough to keep us encouraged. Over the past three months FCFI has had the opportunity to share at events in the northeast, Canada and the south. I believe there has been lots of joy in the pres-

ECHO mission trip, Ft. Myers, FL. Always lots of painting to do as we help spruce up the facility in preparation for their Missions Conference in December. Over 250 third world missionaries will hear of new developments in food production for their respective countries. Shown (left to right) Jen Kelley, Clearwater, FL; Deb Herrold, Westville, IN and Hannah Pilmore, Deerfield, NY.

ence of angels. Thousands have heard the colored bead story and hundreds have responded. The two largest shows, International Plowing Match in Ontario, Canada and the Sunbelt Ag Expo alone had over 12,000 people come through our tents. FCF has visited with over 50,000 people from September through December. We thank God for this privilege.

Water everywhere. Seems like wherever we went this year we were greeted by lots of rain. The Sunbelt Ag Expo in Moultrie, GA was no different. It’s hard to work in a tent when you have 3 inches of standing water.

In October, I accompanied Bill Brown on an ECHO trip. I was the youngest person in the group, which made me a little nervous. However, when we arrived at ECHO and I met everyone, I felt welcome and the other participants treated me like an adult. It was a blessing to meet so many good people, who have become my friends and wonderful role models.

This trip taught me about using available resources to help produce various foods in different climates. I thank God for this wonderful experience and for the talents he has given the leaders of ECHO. Their talents allow them to be a blessing to so many in need.

Also, I learned the importance of volunteering, helping is fun! This trip has changed the way I look at myself, and my life. I am so happy I had the opportunity to go on this amazing adventure. Now I know there is a big world out there, and there are so many people to help.

I look forward to returning in 2012!

Hannah L. Pillmore, age 14 Deerfield, NY

Please stop by and visit us at The New York Farm Show in Syracuse, Feb. 2325, 2012. We have moved to the International Building and will be enjoying working out of a much larger space. If you’ve stopped by in the past, you experienced a very crowded situation. This move should allow us space to accom-

modate more visitors and workers alike.

It will also allow us the opportunity to display more aspects of the FCFI ministry. With this move to more space also comes the need for more staff. If you could spare a day to help at the booth, please give me a call at 305-736-5964.

We would appreciate the help.

Sunbelt Ag Expo — Even with a slow start due to rain on the first day of the show, we were still able to share with over 6000 visitors. God was good as usual. One of our youngest presenters, Logan Tillman, from Moultrie, GA, (cowboy hat) hard at work in the tent. Notice how intent the folks are listening to Logan. You are never too old or young to share your faith.

SEE ONE OF THESE AUTHORIZED KUBOTA DEALERS NEAR YOU! NEW YORK

NEW YORK (cont.)

NEW YORK (cont.)

PENNSYLVANIA

CLAVERACK, NY 12513

NORTH JAVA, NY 14113

SPRINGVILLE, NY

ABBOTTSTOWN, PA 17301

COLUMBIA TRACTOR, INC.

LAMB & WEBSTER, INC.

LAMB & WEBSTER, INC.

MESSICK FARM EQUIPMENT, INC.

841 Rt. 9H • 518-828-1781 www.columbiatractor.com

4120 Route 98 585-535-7671 • 800-724-0139

Crs Rt. 219 & 39 716-392-4923 • 800-888-3403

7481 Lincoln Way 717-367-1319 • 800-222-3372 www.messicks.com

PALMYRA, NY 14522

TROY, NY 12180

JOHN S. BLAZEY, INC.

2991 St. Hwy. 5S • 518-853-4500 www.randallimpls.com

111 Holmes Street 315-597-5121

SHARON SPRINGS FARM & HOME CENTER

Greenville, NY 10586

SALEM, NY 12865

GREENVILLE SAW SERVICE, INC.

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5040 State Route 81 West • 518-966-4346

5109 St. Rte. 22 518-854-7424 • 800-999-3276 www.salemfarmsupply.com

MOOERS, NY 12958

DRAGOON’S FARM EQUIP., INC. 2507 Route 11 • 518-236-7110 www.dragoonsfarmequipment.com

SHARON SPRINGS, NY 13459

SHARON SPRINGS FARM & HOME CENTER 1375 Rt. 20 518-284-2346 • 800-887-1872

1175 Hoosick St. • 518-279-9709 WATERTOWN, NY 13601

WALLDROFF FARM EQUIPMENT, INC. 22537 Murrock Circle • 315-788-1115

WHITE’S FARM SUPPLY, INC. CANASTOTA, NY • 315-697-2214 WATERVILLE • 315-841-4181 LOWVILLE • 315-376-0300 www.whitesfarmsupply.com

ELIZABETHTOWN, PA 17022

MESSICK FARM EQUIPMENT, INC. 187 Merts Dr. 717-367-1319 • 800-222-3373 www.messicks.com HONESDALE, PA 18431

MARSHALL MACHINERY INC. Rt. 652, 348 Bethel School Rd. • 570-729-7117 www.marshall-machinery.com

December 26, 2011 • COUNTRY FOLKS West • Section B - Page 31

FULTONVILLE, NY 12072

RANDALL IMP. CO. INC.

PH (585) 243-1563 FAX (585) 243-3311 6502 Barber Hill Road, Geneseo, New York 14454 WWW.TEITSWORTH.COM

ROY TEITSWORTH INC. SUCCESSFUL AUCTIONS FOR 42 YEARS

Business Liquidation Auction Sicilia Construction Inc.

Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012 • 10 AM 3104 Zoeller Road, Alden, NY • Off Walden Ave. www.teitsworth.com

Selling Equipment: Case 580 L, 4WD Backhoe w/ cab, Extendahoe NH 865 Skid Steer loader NH 185.B track Skid Steer w/bucket, forks JD 450G 6 way Dozer Yanmar B5 Mini Excavator with offset boom, thumb, rubber tracks, blade, Excellent JD 5105 Tractor w/front loader Ditch Witch walk behind trencher Multiquip Diesel Air Compressor Diesel 6500 Gen Set Gas 8000 Gen Set Power Georgia buggy

Plate Tamper Road saw Steel sidewalk and curb forms Black top tools Safety fence and cones Equipment trailers Shop Tools: Welders, Torches, Air compressor, Hand tools and more.

Selling Trucks: 1982 Mack R688 Tandem Dump, extra clean 1987 Freightliner Tandem Dump 1984 IH 1600 Crew Cab Dump 1992 Isuzu one ton service truck 2007 F350 Diesel stake body

Terms: Full payment on all items auction day by- Good Check, Visa, or M.C. 12% Buyers Fee on items under $1000., 4% on items over $1000.

2% discount for Cash or Check Removal: Small Items removed the day of the auction, Large Items by January 11th Inspection: January 4th 10AM - 4PM Roy Teitsworth Inc. Auctioneers Geneseo, NY Check our website www.teistworth.com for more information and photos or call our office at 585-243-1563.

Absolute Commercial Real Estate Auction

3104 Zoeller Rd, Alden, NY Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012 @ 11:30 AM Complete business liquidation!

Real estate sells after machinery.

Selling: Great location for commercial business. 4 acres of commercial land with a 50' x 100' shop. Fenced in lot with over an acre of stoned parking lot.

Terms: Property will be sold without reserve or minimum!

It will be sold in an 'as is' condition without acceptance of any contingencies. More information available at www.teitsworth.com.

Questions?

Call Jesse Teitsworth, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, at (585) 738-2010 or, Carolyn Schwan, Licensed Real Estate Broker, at (585) 243-2716.

Z&M Ag and Turf John Deere Dealer PUBLIC AUCTION of Farm Tractors, Machinery, Landscape Tools and Lawn Tractor-Mowers • Financee Termss Available

Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012 @ 9:00 AM

Railroad Avenue, Alexander (Batavia), NY • Complimentary Breakfast 8-9 A.M

Page 32 - Section B • COUNTRY FOLKS West • December 26, 2011

LOCATION - 10 miles south of the NYS Thruway at Batavia, just off Rt. 98 and Rt. 20 on Railroad Avenue NOTICE - 7 great John Deere dealerships, will join in 1 large public auction. This is a great chance for farmers and homeowners to purchase quality equipment the auction way. If you want great finance terms, see the sales team at Z & M early or call (585) 591-1670.

SELLING TRACTORS JD 7520 MFWD cab* JD 8760 JD 8430, 3pt hitch and PTO JD 7410 MFWD w/cab JD 5525 JD 5325 N JD 5525 w/Cab JD 6300 MFWD w/cab JD 5510 MFWD w/cab JD 6420 N MFWD w/cab JD 6200 JD 4520 JD 2440 JD 5310 MFWD w/cab JD 3020

JD 1010 w/cult JD A JD 1020 N JD 301 Backhoe- Loader Case MX270 MFWD w/cab Case MX210 MFWD W/cab* Case 5140 MFWD w/cab Case 574 Case 1086 Case 1486 Case 485 Case 826 Farmall C w/Loader Case 886 NH TV 140 w/loader* Ford 8830 w/cab MF 275 NH 4630 White 2135 Kubota M9000 MFWD w/cab and loader Kubota M8200 MFWD w/cab Kubota M8950 MFWD w/cab MF 2705 MFWD w/cab MF150 MF 65 w/loader SKID STEER LOADERS & EXCAVATOR JD 301.5 JD 317 JD 250 (2) JD 260 JD 240 NH LS170 Bobcat 553 Bobcat 301-5 Bobcat T190 Bobcat 632

COMPACT TRACTORS Cub Cadet 7265 4WD w/mower IH Cub JD 4120 4WD w/loader Cub Cadet 7264 4WD w/loader Case MX31 4WD JD 655 4WD w/ mower JD 4400 MF 135 JD 650 w/belly mower COMBINES, CHOPPERS, AND HEADS 2008 Claas 870 Forage Harvester w/ R4600 8R Rotary Corn* head and PU380 Hay head, 2050 Head Hrs. Claas RU450 Rotary Corn head JD 9500 4WD Combine JD 7700 4WD Combine (2) JD 643 Corn head JD 630F Flex head* JD 893 Corn head JD 920 Rigid head JD 222 Flex head JD 922 Flex head JD 7' hay head JD 30' Crary cws NI Uni System PLANTERS & DRILLS Kinze 2000 6R Narrow Liquid Planter Kinze 12 R Liquid Planter w/Rawson zone till* JD 1760 12R Liquid Planter JD 1760 Planter JD 630F Plantform Great Plains 30' Foldup Soybean Special 2sht Semi no till

MISC Knight 3030 Mixer wagon Haybuster Bale shreader Knight 5042 Mixer wagon HAY AND FORAGE TOOLS JD 3430 12' Windrower JD 1360 Mower conditioner JD 945 Mower conditioner NH 1432 Mower conditioner Case DCX 131 Mower conditioner Case 8430 Mower conditioner Vicon DMP 3001 Triple mower JD 582 Round baler JD 346 Baler (wire) NH 315 Baler Claas 280 Round Baler Case 8430 Round Baler Vicon 833T Rake NI 279 cut/ditioner Bush Hog 287 Mower Bush Hog 307 Mower Pequea 710 Tedder TILLAGE TOOLS IH 5 Shank Ripper AMCO F15 Disc Brillion XL 144 32' Fold Packer JD 970 Roller Harrow Unverferth 22,0 30 double rolling baskets Brillion 14' cultimulcher Case 700 7B Trailer plow 20-LAWN TRACTORS AND GATORS JD 6x4 Gator Toro 520 JD LX280 INSPECTION - Friday, January 6, 2011 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

TERMS - Full payment auction day, cash, check, MC/Visa. 2% buyer's fee waived for payment with cash or check.

NO BUYER’S FEE SPECIAL NOTE - This is an absolute auction with 6 only exceptions. The * items will sell subject to a very reasonable reserve.

John Deere credit has very attractive terms, Call Z & M Ag and Turf for details. 585 591 1670 by Jan 5, 2012 for pre approval QUESTIONS -Z & M Ag and Turf, owners: (585) 591-1670 Some items may be added or deleted due to daily business. There will be no pre Auction sales after Jan. 3, 2012 Keep checking our website at www.teitsworth.com for Catalog and pictures. You can also visit www.zahmandmatson.com

“WE SPECIALIZE IN LARGE AUCTIONS FOR DEALERS, FARMERS, MUNICIPALITIES AND CONTRACTORS”

The New York Crop Grower A publication of the NY Corn & Soybean Growers Association W inter 2011, V ol. 2 No. 4

New York a Leader in Biofuels - p. 4 NASCAR Green - p. 6

2012 NEW YORK CORN & SOYBEAN EXPO JANUARY 26, 2012

Funded by the Soybean Checkoff

Winter 2011 • New York Corn & Soybean Association • Page 2

President's Column

New York Corn and Soybean Growers Association President, Steve Van Voorhis Henrietta, 585-746-1542

Vice President, Ron Robbins Sackets Harbor, 315-382-3883

Secretary/Treasurer, Ralph Lott Seneca Falls, 315-568-9501

Board Members Roger Arliss, Pit Farm Clyde, 315-521-0488 Adam L. Craft Williamson, 315-589-2386 Todd Du Mond, Du Mond Ag, LLC Union Springs, 315-252-9191 Loren Herod, Community Bank NA Geneva, 315-781-2138 Bruce Howlett, Howlett Farms Inc. Avon, 585-746-2122 Bill Jenkins, Jenkins Farm Wyoming, 585-786-5793 Seth Pritchard, Catalpa Farm Canandaigua, 585-748-3334 Mike Stanyard, Cornell Cooperative Extension Newark, 315-331-8415 Tom Sutter, Monroe Tractor Alexander, 585-591-3239, 585-703-9628 Jason Swede, Gary Swede Farms Pavilion, 585-243-9739 Tim Taylor, SeedSource, LLC Skaneateles, 315-374-2611

Julia Robbins Executive Director

2011’s Challenges are 2012’s Opportunities

T

he holiday season is upon us, and while this is a busy time for most families, it also means a time to slow down for most farmers, with the harvest coming to an end.

Extreme weather this year was a challenge for many growers throughout New York, with a wet spring preventing some crops from getting into the ground until June; and a wet fall delaying parts of the harvest until November. But a wet spring and a wet fall was nothing compared to what farmers experienced in Eastern New York and the Southern Tier, with Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee wiping out entire crops in some cases. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with those farmers and families who lost so much of their livelihoods during these devastating storms.

I'd also like to remind our growers and agri-business colleagues about the annual Corn & Soy Expo, to be held January 26 at the Holiday Inn in Liverpool, NY. We are happy to have Dr. David Kohl, a renowned motivational speaker and educator, back this year as our keynote speaker, as well as Dr. Danny Klinefelter, an educator and economist. The expo will also feature over two dozen exhibitors representing various forms of agri-business in New York State.

I’m also pleased to announce that Julia Robbins will be joining NYSCGA as the Executive Drector. Julia comes from an agricultural background and has extensive legislative experience, most recently serving as the Chief of Staff for Assemblyman Ken Blankenbuh.

Happy Holidays to our growers and friends.

We look forward to seeing you in January at the Expo.

Now Accepting Applications for the 2013 Corn Board

T

he National Corn Growers Association Nominating Committee is now accepting applications from members for the 2013 Corn Board. Through the Corn Board, members can become an integral part of the organization's leadership. Go to www.ncga.com for the application, which provides complete information on requirements, responsibilities and deadlines.

Sackets Harbor, 315-778-1443

The New York Corn and Soybean Growers Association is a grassroots membership organization representing corn and soybean producers’ interests. The Association works to develop and expand markets, educate members, and enhance public policy for corn and soybean growers in the Empire State. The Association sponsors research on corn and soybean production, utilization and marketing and hosts educational programs.

Steve Van Voorhis, President

The NCGA Corn Board represents the organization on all matters while directing both policy and supervising day-to-day operations. Board members serve the organization in a variety of ways. They represent the federation of state organizations, supervise the affairs and activities of NCGA in partnership with the chief executive officer and implement NCGA policy established by the Corn Congress.

Members also act as spokespeople for the NCGA and enhance the organization's public

standing on all organizational and policy issues.

Applications are due Friday, Jan. 13.

Nominated candidates will be introduced at the March 2012 Corn Congress meeting, held in conjunction with the Commodity Classic in Nashville, Tenn. Corn Board members will be elected at the July 2012 Corn Congress in Washington, and the new terms begin Oct. 1.

New York is not currently represented on the National Corn Board, so get your applications in to make sure Northeastern growers are represented!

For more information, growers may contact Kathy Baker at NCGA's St. Louis office at (636) 733-9004.

P

resident Obama recently signed three free trade agreements with South Korea, Colombia and Panama into law.

These important

agreements will allow our nation's farm exports to remain competitive while supporting tens of thousands of jobs in the United States, according to the

National Corn Growers Association.

"During NCGA's testimony to the House Agricultural Committee in May on these three

agreements, we stressed that our nation's farmers gain equal access to growing markets with the ratification of these agreements," NCGA President Garry Niemeyer said. "This still holds true. We appreciate the efforts made by both the executive and legislative branches of our federal government to increase meaningful and achievable access to foreign markets.

U.S. corn farmers stand ready to meet the growing global demand for corn."

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack also released a statement praising the president and reinforcing the economic impact that these FTA's will have upon the nation's economy. "Farm exports help support more than 1 million American jobs," said Vilsack. "This year and next, U.S. agricultural exports are on track to reach new highs, leading to a trade surplus of over $42 billion, eight times greater than five years ago.

When implemented, these three agreements will increase farm exports by an additional $2.3 billion-supporting nearly 20,000 American jobs-by eliminating tariffs, removing barriers to trade and leveling the playing field for U.S. producers."

Page 3 • New York Corn & Soybean Association • Winter 2011

NCGA Applauds President's Ratification of Three Free Trade Agreements

Winter 2011 • New York Corn & Soybean Association • Page 4

Advanced Biofuels Activities Abound Across New York

I

n many ways and many places, New York is living the mission of Advanced Biofuels USA, to promote the understanding, development and use of biofuels and advanced biofuels.

York, Sunoco complies with NASCAR's strict environmental and sustainability standards.

This plant also extracts corn oil as a co-product that can be used to make biodiesel and other bioproducts.

Understanding: NASCAR fans increased their understanding of ethanol when the official fuel for NASCAR changed to Sunoco Green E15. Produced from corn in a renovated Miller Brewery in Fulton, New

"real world" projects for his startup biofuels company, even developing their own research project and writing a federal grant application during the following school year.

Cosenza's work resulted in extensive lesson plans and policies and procedures available to other companies and teachers at no charge.

Development: Research that will enable biofuel production at new levels of sustainability, open new markets for energy crops, forest materials, agricultural residues and municipal wastes abounds in New York. From Mascoma's Rome, NY, pilot facility that works on converting corn stover, sugarcane bagasse, palm residue, softwood, miscanthus, switchgrass, paper sludge and sorghum into (continued on page 5)

A dedicated entrepreneur, Larry Cosenza of Germantown, New York's C2Biotechnologies, developed an innovative approach to prepare high school students work in biotech labs.

During the summer of 2010 he worked with three paid student interns in a lab he created at the local high school. They worked on

ethanol; to Brookhaven National Laboratory's work analyzing the production of oils in rapeseed plant seeds and studies using jatropha oil in industrial furnaces.

United Soybean Board and the state soybean board's Green Ribbon Fairs use and promote soybean-based products ranging from paints used to spruce up buildings to biodiesel used for carnival ride power generators.

using a modular approach they can convert biomass within miles of a processor, reducing transportation and storage expenses.

Cornell scientists spend time at a brewery working on preventing microbes from producing methane, a harmful greenhouse gas; and instead producing useful carboxylates, precursors to the alkanes found in fuels.

And More: The operators of the kitchens at the US Open bring things full circle by collecting nearly 1000 gallons of used cooking oil for conversion into biodiesel fuel; and 50 tons of food waste to compost for landscape and farming uses.

For almost 20 years, the State University of New York's College of Environmental Science and Forestry Willow Biomass Project, has studied shrub willows as a renewable raw material for heat, biofuels and biodegradable polymers. The college's Department of Paper and Bioprocess Engineering researchers are experimenting with different strains of bacteria to ferment sugars extracted from wood into biobutanol for fuel.

What does the future hold?

Perhaps a waste-to-ethanol plant that is on the Finger Lakes regional wish list.

The growing popularity of using "sugar platforms" served by the sugars obtained from conversion of plant biomass (cellulose, hemicelluloses, pectin) to make biofuels and other biochemicals benefits Sweetwater Energy. In its demonstration facility in Rochester, NY, Sweetwater will convert several types of biomass (agricultural residues, woody biomass, etc.) to constituent sugars, with a lignin-rich co-product. By

Use: WNY Energy captures one of the co-products of ethanol production, CO2, for its new neighbor, EPCO Carbon Dioxide Products which sells that fizz to food companies.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's BioGenset project provides marketing assistance to find customers who have needs that can be met by using biodiesel and educates them about its availability for heat and power generation. Stationary systems, known as gensets, are often used by hospitals, schools, and businesses to maintain function during a power outage. Portable diesel generators are commonly used to supply power for special events, such as concerts or ball games. In New York, these are becoming powered by home-grown biodiesel.

At a New York City harbor sewage treatment plant, Patrick Kangas, a researcher from the University of Maryland, grows algae, a potential biofuel feedstock, fed with the pollutants in the wastewater. Researchers at Rochester Institute of Technology also grow algae in wastewater for biodiesel. The algae consume the nitrates and phosphates to reduce bacteria and toxins in the water.

The development Authority of the North Country teamed with researchers from Clarkson University to grow algae for fuel from wastewater in its regional landfill.

Astonished to find so much biofuels activity in New York? From energy crops to new uses for old waste and residues; from research to production, New York has it all.

NEW YORK CORN & SOYBEAN GROWERS ASSOCIATION

2012 NEW YORK CORN & SOYBEAN EXPO January 26, 2012 - Holiday Inn, Liverpool, NY AGENDA 8:30

REGISTRATION & EXHIBITS

1:30

9:30

THE WILD WORLD OF GLOBAL ECONOMICS DR. DAVID KOHL, EDUCATOR, AUTHOR, MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER

THE TWELVE BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES DR. DANNY KLINEFELTER, EDUCATOR & ECONOMIST

2:30

BREAK AND EXHIBITS

10:30 BREAK AND EXHIBITS

2:45

DR. DANNY KLINEFELTER CONTINUED, Q & A

11:00 POSITIONING YOUR BUSINESS FOR AGRICULTURE’S NEXT DECADE DR. DAVID KOHL

3:30

ADJOURN

3:45

NEW YORK CORN & SOYBEAN GROWERS ANNUAL MEETING ALL MEMBERS WELCOME

12:00 LUNCH AND EXHIBITS 1:15

CORN GRAIN YIELD CONTEST RESULTS & SOYBEAN CHECKOFF REPORT

2012 CORN EXPO REGISTRATION FORM

PRE-REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS JANUARY 14, 2012.

AFTER JANUARY 15 ALL REGISTRATIONS WILL BE AT ON-SITE PRICING.

NAME (S): ______________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ FARM: __________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________ PHONE: ______________________ EMAIL: ____________________________________ CREDIT CARD: VISA MASTERCARD AMEX NAME ON CARD: __________________________ CIN #*: ______________________ CARD NUMBER: ________________________ EXP. DATE: ______________________ *CIN # IS THE THREE DIGIT VERIFICATION NUMBER ON THE BACK OF YOUR CREDIT CARD PLEASE SEND REGISTRATION FORM WITH PAYMENT TO: NYCSGA, 2973 ST. RT. 414, SENECA FALLS, NY 13148 OR EMAIL JULIACROBBINS@GMAIL.COM

Member Registration # ____@ $50/$60 ON-SITE ____

Non-member Registration # ____@ $50/$60 ON-SITE ____

2012 Membership Dues New Member Dues @ $25 __________ Membership Renewal @ $50________

TOTAL DUE __________________

Thank You To Our Sponsors

Page 5 • New York Corn & Soybean Association • Winter 2011

(continued from page 4)

Winter 2011 • New York Corn & Soybean Association • Page 6

Despite Reductions, Corn Crop Still Forecast to be Fourth Largest on Record

D

espite slightly lower corn harvest estimates for 2011, growers are still pulling in the fourth-largest U.S. corn crop ever to meet all needs for food, feed and fuel, the National Corn Growers Association said last month upon release of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's monthly report on supply and demand.

"Even in light of slightly lowered estimates, U.S. corn farmers remain on track to produce an abundant crop that will be more than enough to meet all demand," said National Corn Growers Association President Garry Niemeyer. "Recently, we have become accustomed to setting new yield and production records every year, but 2011 reminds us that the weather still plays a major role in growing a successful crop."

Estimated U.S. corn production fell by one percent, roughly 123 million bushels, from October projections as national average yield forecasts were revised down by 1.4 bushels per acre according to U.S. Department of Agriculture reports released today. With yield estimated at 146.7 bushels per acre, total U.S. corn production is still forecast at 12.3 billion bushels for the current crop year.

minimizing the negative impact of harsh conditions, as clearly demonstrated by our ability to produce the fourth-largest corn crop on record even with drought, flooding and other severe weather. I am proud of the resilience and dedication shown by my fellow farmers and of our ability to pull through for America even when facing major challenges," said Niemeyer.

The reports also indicated lower feed and residual use projections in light of the smaller crop, with estimates revised down by 100 million bushels. Additionally, the decreased corn estimates led to reduction in the broiler production outlook. The U.S. ending stock projections for corn were lowered by a mere 23 million bushels.

New York's corn harvest is projected to be at 78.7 million bushels, down approximately 10 million bushels from last year, possibly due to the wet spring and fall, and Hurricanes Irene and Tropical Storm Lee.

"Farming has come a long way in

The reports also indicated minor changes to corn import and export markets with China now projected to import one to three million metric tons more corn this

year. At the same time, Argentina is now expected to increase corn exports by somewhere between one-half and twenty million metric tons.

According to the report, soybean production is forecast at 3.05 billion bushels, down 9 percent from last year. Based on Nov. 1 conditions, yields are expected to average 41.3 bushels per acre, down 2.2 bushels from last year. If these harvest numbers hold true, the average yield will be the second lowest since 2003 (again, possibly due to the severe weather New York experienced this year). Area for harvest is forecast at 73.7 million acres, down 4 percent from 2010. In New York, the harvest is expected to bring in 11.9 billion bushels, a decrease of just over 1 billion bushels from last year.

NASCAR GREEN: Good for the Environment, Good for the Rural American Economy

U

ntil a few years ago, NASCAR was still using dirty leaded gasoline, which regular cars ditched back in the 1970s. In a single season NASCAR drivers burned 450,000 gallons of the stuff. But now America's second-most watched sport is greening its image thanks to American Ethanol and thanks to corn farmers.

"This has been one of the largest and most successful program state corn grower groups and NCGA have ever executed and it would not have been possible without corn growers investing membership and checkoff dollars in the NASCAR effort. We look forward to expanding our efforts in 2012," Niemeyer said.

In 2008, NASCAR started using unleaded fuel. In 2011, it made an even bigger switch to Sunoco Green E15 ethanol because of its ability to reduce emissions. They now run E15 in all three NASCAR series including the Sprint Cup races that feature the biggest names in racing.

The change is evident because of the addition of a green circle around the fuel port of every car with the words "American Ethanol." Every restart during races also utilizes the branded green flag.

For the 2012 season, NASCAR will switch to electronic fuel injection systems, another change that is long overdue. Fuel injection will further reduce NASCAR's emissions and make incorporating higher-blend ethanol fuels even easier.

NASCAR joined forces with American Ethanol, a partnership of National Corn Growers Association and ethanol producer Growth Energy to further promote the use of ethanol fuel. NASCAR estimates they will reduce its stock car emissions by 900 tons just from the fuel switch.

During the 2011 season the sport's race cars logged 1.5 million miles on track on E15 and reported increased performance and no negative effects on fuel mileage.

"This partnership is able to demonstrate to the American public the many values of ethanol," said Garry Niemeyer, NCGA president.

"NASCAR is especially proud that E15 helps create rural jobs and strengthens the business prospects for family farmers across America."

Together, NASCAR's 80 million fans are putting faces like Clint Bowyer, Kyle Busch and Dale Earnhardt Jr. on the green movement in America.

Clint Bowyer, driver of the #33 Ray Childress Racing says "it's amazing how fan's input has changed. At first they were asking, "What is ethanol?" Now fans are asking, "Where do I get it?"

Those fans are also seeing NASCAR Green television commercials featuring drivers and farmers carrying the message of E15's arrival in NASCAR with an estimated media value of more than $10 million. Corn Growers across the country have also been involved in ethanol education and promotion at tracks from Daytona to Sonoma, California. In fact, when the season started in Daytona all the fans in the stands helped announce E15's arrival in the sport by waving miniature green American Ethanol flags to help start the race.

"This is phase one of biofuels for the sport. This is a long-term commitment. I would say the prevailing feeling about Sunoco Green E15 is better than good, it's actually great," said NASCAR's Mike Lynch, managing director of green innovation. "Leading up to its debut was a two-year effort with a tremendous amount of live track testing and scientists doing their due diligence. We had to be sure that the fuel would stand up to the demanding conditions of racing."

In 2011, the difference between NASCAR fans and non-fans in awareness that NASCAR is running ethanol blend nearly doubled after E15 launch, thanks to a public relations campaign that resulted in: * NASCAR Green accounting for ONE-THIRD of all ethanol industry news coverage in July 2011 in 1-month sample * 30 million impressions to date in 2011 * NASCAR Green being featured In more than 225 news stories across the country This PR campaign has also helped to turn public opinion about the production of American Ethanol thanks to: * 92% positive news stories about NASCAR Green ethanol * 6 times as many NASCAR Green stories portraying ethanol as having a net positive effect on the environment * 2.5 times as many stories portraying ethanol as helping the American family farmer * 2 times as many stories portraying ethanol as creating jobs Here in New York, we are proud to be a part of the NASCAR/ American Ethanol partnership: the Sunoco ethanol facility in Fulton, NY (Oswego County) produces E15 fuel for NASCAR.

M

ore than 200 miles separate Russ Carpenter's upstate New York soybean farm and New York City. The business connections, however, are much closer.

Starting in October 2012, the 1 billion gallons of heating oil that New York City residents use annually must contain at least 2 percent biodiesel. This blend, marketed commercially as Bioheat(r), combines B100 biodiesel and home-heating fuel.

These new standards will replace 20 million gallons of petroleum with soy biodiesel. That requirement equals the need for soybean oil from 30 million bushels of soybeans, biodiesel's largest feed stock.

The soybean checkoff helped the National Biodiesel Board complete some of the legwork

when it came to marketing Bioheat. They recognized the market potential for soybeans used as a home-heating fuel and supported educational efforts in the northeastern United States, where most home-heating oil is consumed.

Now soybean farmers, like Carpenter, see their marketing efforts coming to fruition with city officials taking note.

Carpenter hopes that New York City will set an example for the rest of the nation. The city already represents the largest municipal user of biodiesel, using B20 (20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel) in their 4,000 sanitation trucks. The city's parks department uses a B50 blend at landmarks including

Central Park, Yankee Stadium and Coney Island.

"It's a win-win for New York and other cities to use soy-based biodiesel," adds Carpenter. "As a farmer, it verifies our efforts and the investments we've made in this industry."

"With the new requirements, soybean farmers increase markets for soybean oil while New York City residents gain a cleaner, more environmentally friendly home-heating option," says Russ Carpenter, a soybean farmer from Trumansburg, NY. "I see growth throughout the region with Bioheat potentially heating millions more homes in the next decade."

The New & Improved www.nycornsoy.org Launches in January!

Page 7 • New York Corn & Soybean Association • Winter 2011

Biodiesel Big Apple Represents Big Market for Soybean Farmers

Winter 2011 • New York Corn & Soybean Association • Page 8