Leader: Farm Fresh Financing

Leader Farm Credit

Farm fresh financing

volume 18 | issue 2 | $3.95

Financing Rural America for More Than 95 Years

in this issue

Leader

farm | land

4 B&G Orchards—a family

volume 18 | issue 2

that works together

6 Keeping it local at

Wilson’s Farm Market

MidAtlantic Farm Credit, ACA J. Robert Frazee, CEO

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8 Connecting a

Fred N. West Chairman

neighborhood, through urban farming

M. Wayne Lambertson Vice Chairman

10 Building a farm from the ground up

your association

12 First time Borrower A-B-C’s

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13 How to Choose a Lender 14 Election Results and Live. Laugh. Farm.

Annual Meeting

15 2014 Photo Contest Information

17 The Whole is Greater

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than the Parts

If you have any questions or ideas for the editorial staff of the Leader, contact Donna Dawson at 800.333.7950, e-mail her at ddawson@mafc.com or write her at MidAtlantic Farm Credit, 680 Robert Fulton Highway, Quarryville, PA 17566. This publication is for you, our reader. We’d love to hear from you!

The Leader is published quarterly for stockholders, friends and business associates.

community

If you wish to no longer receive this publication, please email: unsubscribe@mafc.com and by putting “Unsubscribe Leader” in the subject.

18 Scholarship winners 20 Properties for sale 10 facebook.com/midatlanticfarmcredit

twitter.com/midatfarmcredit

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Paul D. Baumgardner Deborah A. Benner Brian L. Boyd Gary L. Grossnickle Dale R. Hershey Walter C. Hopkins T. Jeffery Jennings Christopher Kurtzman Fred R. Moore, Jr. Dale J. Ockels Jennifer L. Rhodes Ralph L. Robertson, Jr. Paul J. Rock Joseph D. Snapp Lingan T. Spicer

Questions or Ideas

16 Cultivating Big Dreams on a Small Scale

MidAtlantic Farm Credit Board of Directors

mafc.com/blog

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The Farm Credit Administration does not require the association to distribute its quarterly financial reports to shareholders. However, copies of its complete report are available upon request or see quarterly updates online at mafc.com. The shareholders’ investment in the association is materially affected by the financial condition and results of operations of AgFirst Farm Credit Bank and copies of its quarterly financial report are available upon request by writing: Susanne Caughman, AgFirst Farm Credit Bank P.O. Box 1499, Columbia, SC 29202-1499 Address changes, questions or requests for the association’s quarterly financial report should be directed to: MidAtlantic Farm Credit, ACA by calling 800.333.7950 or writing: MidAtlantic Farm Credit 45 Aileron Court, Westminster MD 21157

events | deadlines

message from the president

Farm fresh

financing

After years of people taking farming for granted, I really feel like agriculture is “hip” again.

I couldn’t be happier.

People who farm don’t normally like a lot of attention. They don’t want people to fuss over them, and they don’t want to brag about what they do every day. But we know that for agriculture to continue to be a viable, sustainable part of our economy in the future, we need people to understand what goes into getting food onto our tables. We need to be part of conversations about how we can ensure that everyone in America—including those folks in urban areas—have access to fresh and delicious food. We need to educate people about what will be required to feed an estimated world population of 10 billion people by the year 2050.

We need to talk about farming. All kinds of farming.

Which is why I’m so excited about this issue of the Leader. Our four feature articles each spotlight a family or group who is reaching out to the public, supplying them with wonderful food, and educating them on agriculture in the process. Like Greg Wilson and Janelle Vane of Wilson’s Farm Market, who make a special effort to always shop local as a way of supporting their neighbors in Harford County, MD. And Margaret Evans and Kevin Brown, who are in the process of moving from Vermont and purchasing a farm in Maryland to run a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture), because it would put them closer to metropolitan areas and, ultimately, a larger group of potential customers.

I think you’ll enjoy reading about the Urban Tree Connection, a group started

by Skip Wiener in Chester, PA, which works with kids to change an abandoned urban block into a vibrant community garden. And Butler’s Farm Market in West Virginia, where brothers Bruce and Greg Butler market their produce directly to an enthusiastic clientele in their Martinsburg store.

JUN event

place

13-15 Kempton Country Fair

Kempton PA

17-22 Schnecksville Community Fair

Schnecksville PA

19 DPI Golf Tournament

Snow Hill MD

21 First day of summer 21-22 Delmarva Chicken Festival

Snow Hill MD

JUL event

place

1 Deadline: Wheat and Barley premium due 4 Independence Day

Offices Closed

10 Randy Ward Memorial FFA Golf Tournament

Front Royal VA

10-13 Talbot County Fair

Easton MD

15 Deadline: Acreage Report Deadline 17 Tawes Crab & Clam Bake

Crisfield MD

18-20 Kent County Fair

Tolchester MD

18-27 Delaware State Fair

Harrington DE

19-21 Cecil County Fair

Fair Hill MD

22-27 Kimberton Fair

Kimberton PA

26-28 Somerset County Fair 27-28 Morgan County Fair

Princess Anne MD Berkeley Springs WV

These stories are diverse, and yet they have great similarities: each one of the families and organizations featured loves the connection to the land, and the responsibility of providing their families and neighbors with food.

27-8/2 Carroll County 4-H and FFA Fair 29-8/1 Frederick County Fair

Winchester VA

Whether you’re part of this “new generation” of farmers, or part of the old guard of agriculture (I proudly include myself in that latter group!), I hope you’ll take the time to read this issue from cover to cover. In addition to the features mentioned above, we have articles on new financing sources from USDA, how to get a loan from a lender like Farm Credit, and a round-up of our annual election and stockholder meetings.

29-8/3 Schuylkill County Fair

Summit Station PA

Farm Credit is proud to be a part of the farming community for almost 100 years. And we’re just as excited about what the new generation will bring.

AUG event 1-3 Great Pocomoke Fair 3-10 Berkeley County Youth Fair 9-11 Worcester County Fair 12-17 Queen Anne’s County Fair

Westminster MD

place Pocomoke City MD Martinsburg WV Snow Hill MD Centreville MD

15-17 Wicomico Farm & Home Show Salisbury MD

volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

You can’t open a magazine anymore that doesn’t make some reference to a “new generation” of farmers. Whether it’s an article on growing heirloom tomatoes in raised beds, or recipes for kale and collards, or a feature introducing agricultural producers, everyone seems to want to talk about farming these days.

And there are some who don’t want to just talk about it—they want to do it.

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B u t l e r ’s Fa r m Ma r ke t i s a s c los e a s i t g e t s t o a l oc a l on e s t op s h op p i n g c e n t e r for m a ny c u s t ome rs w h o pre f e r t o bu y f re s h , loc a l l y g row n a n d produ c e d g oods.

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G re g (lef t ) a n d B r u c e J r. kn ow w h a t b rot h e r l y t e a mwor k i s a l l ab ou t ! T h ey wor k s id e by s i de da y in a n d da y ou t ke e p i n g a l l s e g m e n t s of t h e i r bu s i n e s s g oi n g .

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B&G Orchards — A family that works together,

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plays together, prays together, and stays together! story and photos by Jennifer Showalter

There is something about the stories behind family farms that grabs at just about everyone’s heart!

Unfortunately not all of the stories are as pastoral as the operations may appear. Working day in and day out with family can be more than some can handle, but for Bruce and Greg Butler it is a way of life they feel fortunate to live.

While growing up just outside of Martinsburg, West Virginia, they watched their father, Bruce Sr., and his brother Elwood work side by side running a successful dairy operation. Bruce and Greg knew early on they wanted to make a career out of farming as well. Being the fifth generation to farm land that has been in their family for well over 100 years is something they cherish each and every day.

driven by the market Picking up on the idea of diversification early on, Bruce and Greg’s grandfather supplemented the family’s dairy income by planting apple trees intended for processing in the 1930’s. As kids helping out on the farm, Bruce and Greg quickly realized they had more interest in the orchard than the dairy. They had always been told tales of their grandfather going from door to door selling milk, giving them the idea that they wanted to eventually try retailing fruit from the family’s orchards.

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Even though they were both mainly interested in the orchard business, Bruce and Greg started off by forming B & G Livestock in 1984. At that time they were buying feeder pigs and finishing approximately

400 hogs per year while also helping their father and uncle with the family dairy and orchards.

Around 1988 the Butler family decided to participate in a dairy buyout program. Not ready to retire completely, Bruce Sr. and Elwood went from the dairy business into the beef business. The herd today consists of around 70 head of commercial brood cows.

Even though their ancestors had been raising processing apples for years, Bruce and Greg saw more opportunity in the fresh market. “Anyone can grow anything, but having the ability to market it at a fair price is as important as growing it,” says Greg. Going forward with the idea, they formed B & G Orchards, Inc. They leased several orchards over the next few years and raised apples, peaches, and other fresh fruits.

In 1992, they started a small farmers market on one of the farms they were leasing.

The Butler Fa m i l y p rou dl y ac c e p t s t h e 2 0 1 2 Wes t V i rg i n i a C on s e r va t i on Fa r m of t h e Ye a r Awa rd.

Br u c e J r. a n d G re g are a l wa ys l ooki n g for n ew wa ys t o b e be t t e r s t ewa rds of t h e l a n d. ( pho to by

Ba rbi e E lli o t )

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Toda y, orc h a rds s u r rou n d t h e hom e s of B r u c e Bu t l e r S r. a n d hi s l a t e b rot h e r, Elwood. L i ke t h e i r an c e s t ors, B r u c e J r. a n d G re g l i ve o n t h e fa mi l y fa r m an d c h e r i s h t h e lan d t h a t G od h a s g ra n t e d t h e m t o c a re for.

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The Butler fa mi l y t a ke s pr i de i n ra i s i n g an d bu y i n g g oods to sell in their far m m a r ke t .

T h ey va l u e t h e c u s t ome rs w h o s h op on a re g u l a r ba s i s a n d wor k ha rd t o m e e t t h e i r n e e ds.

In 1995, Bruce and Greg gave up the land they were leasing and returned to the family land of their father and uncle to expand their fresh fruit market. When planting more fruit trees and vegetables, For more information on B & G Orchards, their father often questioned them but visit gowhereitgrows.com. always supported their decisions to try

Today, Bruce and Greg are running around 250 acres of apples, 100 acres of peaches, and 35 acres of vegetables and other fruits. Of the apples they raise, 75% go for processing, while the other 25% is sold retail as fresh market apples at their market or wholesale to “trucker farmers” who resell the fruit.

All of their peaches and vegetables are sold fresh in the same manner as their fresh apples.

Feeling that diversification and marketing are key, Bruce and Greg have expanded Butler’s Farm Market into selling other things besides the wide range of fruits and vegetables they produce. The sales of the other products help insure a steadier income from the time the market opens in March until it closes in November. With fresh baked pies, jams, preserves, milk, cheese, ice cream, free-range eggs, local honey, flowers, lawn furniture, mulch, sand, and stone—shoppers have plenty to choose from.

a relationship’s value can’t be measured in dollars The joys that come from planting a seed and watching it grow is one thing for Bruce and Greg, but they find just as much reward in communicating with their customers who come to the market to buy fresh locally grown and produced goods. “A farmer’s faith has to be strong in everything he or she does from the ground to above. The financial part is important but not as important to us as the relationships we form with people like our customers, workers, and business partners,” says Bruce.

B & G Orchards truly is a family operation that is very dependent on each family member involved. “We have a pretty good sized engine here and there are a lot of moving parts. When one person doesn’t hold up, it affects everything. We have been so fortunate and blessed that everyone always has worked so well together,” says Bruce. Their dad is 80 years old but is still up and at it every morning by 5:30 working on the farm and at the market. Their mom, Virginia, bakes pies and apple dumplings in the bakery at the market. Bruce’s wife, Susan, does the books for the business, and his two kids helped at the market before they were grown. Greg’s wife, Jennifer, helps at the market during the summer as do their three children.

In addition to family members, B & G Orchards relies on others to make their engine work. During the off-season, B & G Orchards has around 10 employees, and when things are in full swing they

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add about 26 seasonal workers from Florida. Many of the seasonal employees have been working for B & G Orchards for over 20 years.

Bruce and Greg provide the seasonal workers with housing and treat them as if they are family. David Murphy, a lifelong friend of the family, manages the market and has brought many new ideas to the business over the years.

stewardship is key Having a deep love for the land and appreciation for their customers, Bruce and Greg go the extra mile to produce good, safe products in an environmentally friendly way. “God gave us this land here to do what we love to do and it’s our job to preserve it for future generations,” says Bruce.

All aspects of B & G Orchards are operated under an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. Bruce and Greg have constructed concrete pads at their well sites. These pads are environmentally friendly in case of spills when sprayers are being filled. They also use “smart” sprayer technology to eliminate excess spray applications, especially in blocks of younger trees.

Their 35 acres of vegetables are irrigated with a drip irrigation system to save water and provide an effective way to apply fertilizers. Plastic mulching also helps minimize water loss and hinders weed development. To help alleviate deer damage, they built approximately five miles of deer fence around the perimeter of their operation.

Bruce and Greg are always open to new technology and ways that can help them be better stewards of the land. Their efforts were recognized when they were named the 2012 West Virginia Conservation Farm of the Year. Butler’s Farmers Market has also been chosen as the number one farmers market for eight years running in “The Journal”, a local daily newspaper.

Bruce and Greg feel they owe a lot of their success to Farm Credit. “Farm Credit lenders have been so understanding and personal because of their farming backgrounds. They have done a great job at making us aware of things we didn’t see as well as helping us understand the financial side of our business when we were getting started,” says Greg.

Being built around strong faith and hard work, B & G Orchards is one of those family farms that is both picturesque on the inside and out. “Greg and I are not rewarded today for the things we are doing, we are being rewarded for the things we did when we were younger. The good Lord takes care of those who work hard for His purpose,” says Bruce. n

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volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

go where it grows

farm | land

new things. In 2002, Bruce and Greg fulfilled a big part of their dream by opening Butler’s Farm Market.

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G re g a n d J a n e l l e a re be s t kn ow n for t h e w i de a r ra y of f re s h s e a s on a l produ c e t h ey g row an d s e l l . H oweve r, t h e i r op e ra t i on als o i n c l u de s s eve ra l g e n e ra t i on s of a wa rd w i n n i n g Sh e t l a n d p on i e s.

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W i l s on ’s C SA of f e rs m ore o p t i on s t h a n s ome o th e rs, l e t t i n g m emb e rs g e t j u s t t h e a mou n t of f ru i t a n d p rodu c e t h ey n e e d.

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T h e fa r m’s b a r n i s more t h a n 2 0 0 ye a rs o l d. I t wa s re - s i de d a n d t h e s la t e roof re p a i re d in 2 0 0 8 w i t h h e l p f rom a re a A mi s h c ra f t s m e n .

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Keeping it local at story by Susan Walker photos by Susan Walker and Wilson’s Farm Market

You won’t find Greg Wilson or Janelle Vane shopping at a big box store like Walmart. Why? Because they are strong believers in supporting local Harford County, Maryland stores, eateries, and their fellow farmers in the area.

Greg and Janelle own a 40-acre farm off Route 1, between Bel Air and Darlington. They grow fruit, vegetables, herbs, and flowers that they sell at their retail market, Wilson’s Farm Market. Unlike most farm markets, Wilson’s is open year-round, offering seasonal produce and plants grown on their farm, as well as eggs, dairy products, meats, jams and jellies, honey, soaps and lotions, and other items produced by local farms and businesses. One customer favorite is the pies and cookies they bake every day at the market. They also sell their produce at farmers markets in Bel Air, White Marsh, and Catonsville.

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slaughterhouse. It helped me build the skills I need to take care of the farm and market now.”

His career path changed when his botany teacher took him aside after Greg wrote a paper on apple production. “He told me, ‘You should go farm. It’s clear that’s what you love.’ I took his advice and went for it,” Greg adds.

“We’ve been practicing sustainable agriculture for years”

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Janelle and G re g (f ro m l e f t ) a p p re c i a t e t h e p e rs on a l re l a t i on s h i p t h a t ha s deve l op e d w i t h t h e i r l oa n of f i c e r Br u c e Ye r ke s.

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Janelle and her team start g row i n g p e re n n i a l s an d a n n u a l s i n t h e g re e n h ou s e in Fe b r u a r y s o t h ey ’ re re a dy for sale in spring.

“We’re huge on local,” explains Greg. “I shop at the local hardware store. When we go out to dinner, we look for a local, family-owned place. If we want people to buy our locally grown produce, I think we should do the same and shop local whenever possible. And we find the quality and the experience to be better at a local place too.”

In addition to Greg and Janelle’s commitment to growing, selling, and buying local, they’ve also been devoted practitioners of what’s now called sustainable agriculture for years. “We manage the application of nutrients and hand fertilize all our plants and trees on the 22 acres we farm rather than broadcast fertilizing,” says Janelle. “It’s a financially smarter way to manage nutrients and it’s better for the environment. We rarely use pesticides on our vegetables and never on our berries.”

Greg started working on the farm he now owns as a teenager. “I had a summer job picking peaches,” he says. “I never planned to farm. After high school, I attended Harford Community College, studying wildlife biology. While in school, I did some farming, worked as a carpenter, worked on the kill floor of a local

Adds Greg, “You can pick a cherry tomato off the vine and pop it right in your mouth. I used to pride myself on growing perfect fruit. We always won blue ribbons for our peaches, but I’m not a perfectionist in that way anymore. I prefer to grow Additional market information can be found fruit that’s not covered in pesticides by visiting: wilsonsfarmmarket.net.

Everything Greg and Janelle grow, they sell retail at their market or the local farmers markets they attend. They and a small staff of seasonal workers handpick their fruit and veggies when they’re ripe, something not many farmers still do.

“Our CSA is pretty unique,” she adds. “Members get two kinds of fruit in each share. We also frequently include other local products like beef, cheese, or cider, which is another benefit and helps support local farmers. We work to make sure our customers feel that this is their farm too. They can walk around the farm, hang out and talk with us. They can cut sunflowers and herbs from the garden for no cost. And we let members pick their own strawberries and cherries. Customers become our friends.”

Most people don’t can fruits and vegetables or make a year’s worth of jam anymore, so Janelle—who handles marketing and the retail end of the operation—has worked hard to reach a broader customer base. She advertises in local print and online publications and through the Wilson’s Farm Market website and their Facebook page.

Greg and Janelle appreciate that MidAtlantic Farm Credit shares their focus on building relationships. “We may be a customer, but our relationship with our loan officer Bruce Yerkes is personal. You’re not talking to a stranger. You’re talking to someone who knows you and knows what’s going on. It’s a more comfortable way to bank,” says Greg.

“We still produce the same amount as we always have, but each customer buys a smaller amount,” she explains. “We sell by volume—quarts, pecks, bushels—which is a more old fashioned approach. Our customers like this because it connects them with their childhood memories of going to the farm stand with mom or dad.”

Asked what they like best about farming, Greg and Janelle both point to the results of all their hard work. “Everything is tangible,” Janelle says. “You can see and touch the results,” adds Greg. “When I pick a really pretty peach, it feels great because you know that it’s going to bring joy to the person who buys it and eats it.” n

making a connection with their customers

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volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

While hand fertilizing might sound like an old-fashioned approach to agriculture, Greg and Janelle also use cutting-edge techniques on their farm to help them maximize the yield from their relatively small acreage. They grow tomatoes in a high tunnel in bags of compost. This lessens disease pressure by keeping the plants dry so no fungicide is needed. They also use special grafted tomato plants they get from a local grower.

These plants are less susceptible to disease because you graft the variety you want onto a root with disease resistance, a sustainable way to prevent disease that’s common in Europe.

In addition to selling at the markets, Greg and Janelle offer a community supported agriculture (CSA) program. Through the program, people pre-purchase fruits and vegetables and pay for them during the winter off-season. Come spring and summer, members come to the farm or the market and pick up a pre-packed bag that contains a share of what’s currently in season. Janelle also sets up a trade table where members can swap fruits or veggies they don’t love for an equivalent amount of ones they like better.

farm | land

and that’s something that’s important to our customer too. We prefer to farm in harmony with the environment.”

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Pa r t i c i p a n t s in the P h i l a de l p h i a You t h N e t wor k prog ra m f i n i s h u p a da y a t a l a rg e ur b a n g a rde n i n P h i l a de l p h i a . A l s o k n ow n a s ‘ t h e far m ’ , t h e g a rde n s u p p l i e s food for C SAs a n d s eve ra l far m e rs m a r ke t s.

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S ki p W i e n e r, fou n de r a n d exe c u t i ve di re c t or of U r b a n Tre e C on n e c t i on , c h e c ks s e e dl i n g s s t a r t e d un de r l i g h t s i n h i s ba s e m e n t .

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Connecting a neighborhood through urban farming story by Sally Colby photos by Sally Colby and Urban Tree Connection

Skip Wiener didn’t intend to be a life-changer, but lives have been changed through a program he founded after losing his job as a landscape architect. “I went back to school at Penn in the early 1970s,” says Skip, founder and executive director of the Urban Tree Connection. “I was one of those kids who went back to school, got a degree, and had several good career-type positions.”

When Skip lost his job in 1989, instead of seeking employment again, he went to Chester, Pennsylvania and started working with youth. “In low-income neighborhoods, land was abundant but it was trashed,” says Skip. “I’d ask the kids to show me their neighborhoods and tell me what was good or bad about it. The kids took me to an abandoned street adjacent to the projects, and I looked at it and said, ‘ok, let’s build a little garden.’”

As he recruited youngsters to work with him to create the first garden, Skip and the kids eventually transformed a vacant area—a full-city block—into a small park. In addition to teaching the children about gardening, he also committed himself to providing weekly environmental programs for the youth. “Kids just poured out of the houses,” he says. “We had tremendous conflict with the drug dealers, but we stayed our ground.” Skip insisted that no fences be constructed around the gardens, and kept the trees so that the entire area was open and visible—both of which helped change the dynamic of the area.

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“The community looked at this positively,” says Skip.

“Over a period of 10 years, in a 10 square block area, we built eight gardens.” Skip noted that as the gardens were being built, relationships within the community were also being developed. Many of the women who

lived close to one another had never met, but through the gardens, a community network emerged in an area otherwise devoid of services.

“When we built the little garden on Pearl Street and collards came out of the ground, people came out of their houses,” says Skip. “I learned that there was a dormant farming culture present. Everybody in this dormant subculture knew how to farm, and when they saw things growing, they came outside and started to hang out. They knew how to grow and tend these crops.”

When he was approached by a block captain about working on a three-quarter acre abandoned property, his first thought was that it was an overwhelmingly large project. But once the old cars, rusty barrels, oil tanks and debris were removed, it became clear that the plot might be suitable for a farm. City funding took care of the cleanup, and water and soil tests proved that the ground wasn’t as toxic as Skip first thought. He brought in truckloads of leaves, added mushroom soil from nearby Kennett Square and let it all decompose to improve the soil. In two years, another city farm was ready to grow.

With the help of neighborhood teens, food growing on the farm was abundant. “Kids were also raising food on Pearl Street,”

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Q , (lef t ), exp l a i n s t o Qu ’ da i r s om e of t h e f i n e poi n t s of ra i s i n g veg e t a b l e s. You t h who participate in t h e u r b a n g a rde n p roj e c t le a r n a b ou t t ra n s p l a n t i n g , irr i g a t i on , c u l t i va t i on , ha r ve s t a n d m a r ke t i n g of veg e t a b l e s.

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A g rou p of you t h wor ke rs us e f re s h g a rde n produ c e t o p re p a re a we e kl y me a l for a l l of t h e pa r t i c i p a n t s. T h i s exp e r i e n c e h e l p s you t h l e a r n more ab ou t t h e food t h ey ’ re ra i s i n g .

Want to learn more about this project? Visit urbantreeconnection.org.

Ryan designed a water collection system with Drexel University professor, Franco Montalto, that funnels water from the roofs of seven houses near the farm, and constructed high tunnels with the help of Penn State. “He built a shed from recycled pallets and started a compost system,” says Ryan. We started calling it the Neighborhood Foods Farm. Then Dylan Baird came from Temple University’s Fox School of Business— now I had a farmer and a businessman.”

This season, Neighborhood Foods will offer 100 CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares, sell produce at four area farmers markets, and sell produce to several city restaurants. “We have a community distribution system, work shares

2 and a contract with the city to work with 25 teens who will be paid to work on the farms and farmers markets,” says Ryan. “We also have two young men who came to us as interns and are now in training to become farm managers.”

Those young men are Quinzell McCall, who goes by ‘Q’, and Raheem White. At the farm on a windy spring afternoon, the two were working on securing plastic on one of the high tunnels.

Q says that they relied on information from the Internet to learn how to put the high tunnel together. As the two walked around the farm on a late March day, they pointed out rows of new garlic emerging from the earth, and talked about how mesclun mix and arugula would soon be growing in the high tunnels. Q laughed as he talked about how just a few years ago, he wouldn’t have known what a high tunnel or arugula was.

Q and Raheem attended several hands-on pruning classes to learn how to take care of the newly planted apricot and peach trees.The importance of water became evident: in order to keep crops adequately watered, the young men had to familiarize themselves with the water collection system, the underground water storage and irrigation systems.

During the summer, Q and Raheem will help supervise the youth who come to work at the farm. “In summer, the teens who worked here had to make a meal,” says Q as he pointed out the newly constructed pavilion. “It helped a lot to have this here.

There was no shade anywhere, and the temperature in the high tunnels was 105 degrees.” The two young men were proud of a storage shed constructed last year primarily from discarded wooden pallets. Q says that the teens come to the farm with no experience with tools or farm implements, which helped him develop an appreciation for all he had learned.

Q says that when they were first at the farm, they didn’t know much about plant diseases or pest control. “There were a lot of harlequin bugs on the brassicas like collards and kale,” he says.

“We learned more about that during the off-season. We try to use organic practices, and don’t use a lot of sprays.”

Raheem says that kids start coming to the farm as soon as the weather warms up. Both agreed that the students they work with are willing to learn from them, although they’ve found that

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the students have little or no knowledge of farming. “To me, it’s interesting to know what some of them know when they start out,” says Q. “Sometimes they know about crops like kale that a lot of people don’t eat. That’s one of the reasons we do the cooking. We did a survey at the end of the program and a lot of them said that the cooking was their favorite part.”

Dylan Baird, Neighborhood Foods Farm business manager for Urban Tree Connection, says that there are eight drop-off locations for the CSA shares. “Because we’re in Philadelphia and there are a lot of great value-added producers, we also offer bread, jam, honey and coffee in the shares. It’s the foundation of a distribution system for small Philadelphia producers.”

Misako Scott, office manager for Urban Tree Connection, says that there was a true need for food in the areas where food plots have been established. She explained that the lot where the farm now stands was one of many vacant lots in the city that can be revitalized through taking them back from illegal activities.

“We’re trying to help these kids through community revitalization,” says Misako. “It’s about community cohesion—we’ve been able to pull people in from all over the place, and they can plan for their neighborhoods. It’s amazing what the land allows us to do.” n

volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

Skip says that as the program grew, he realized that he wasn’t genetically programmed to be a farmer and needed more agricultural expertise. He hired Ryan Witmer, a young corn farmer from Ohio who had interned at the Urban Tree Connection. “I asked him to come on board to help build a proper farm,” says Skip. “The challenges of building an urban farm are significantly different from building a corn farm, but Ryan had studied urban farming in Cuba, and this is what he wanted to do.”

“There’s a switch that makes the water go to the regular storm drain or to our underground storage chamber,” says Q. “The water is filtered by wood chips, gravel and plants, and goes into the chamber under the pavilion floor. The chamber holds about 4,000 gallons of water—that’s enough water to last us a month in the summer heat.”

farm | land

says Skip of the pre-teen program in another section of the city. “They called themselves the Veggie Kids. They harvested, washed and bagged produce, took it around the neighborhood and sold the produce around the projects for one dollar a bag.”

9

1

Margaret Evans tends a field of potatoes on a leased farm in Pittsford, VT, where she and Kevin Brown started Groundworks Farm.

After their move to a purchased farm in Pittsville, MD, the couple will continue to grow vegetables while expanding options for their CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shareholders.

2

Building a farm from the ground up

1

story by Sally Colby and photos provided by Groundworks Farm

Margaret Evans is in Pittsford, Vermont, finishing up the second full season of working a CSA (community supported agriculture) farm. Kevin Brown splits his time between the same farm in Vermont and one that the couple recently purchased in Pittsville, Maryland. Although the couple started their farm business, Groundworks Farm, in Vermont, they’re currently in the process of moving to Maryland’s eastern shore. Like many of today’s new, young farmers, neither Margaret nor Kevin grew up on farms.

3

“I thought I wanted to be a teacher,” says Margaret.

“I worked for Heifer Project International on their educational ranch in Arkansas. I did school programs with kids - we taught them about hunger and poverty throughout the world, and how agriculture ties in.”

4

While she was with the Heifer Project, Margaret had an opportunity to work with the garden and livestock crew, and realized that she was drawn to that aspect of the program. She says that her first experience with agriculture – moving cows and planting a greenhouse – was what connected her with ag. After that, she sought other opportunities to learn through apprenticeships.

“I did a structured apprenticeship on a farm that offered a CSA,” says Margaret, “similar to what we have now.

Apprenticing taught me a lot—I got a solid knowledge of growing vegetables and raising livestock sustainably.”

Margaret noted that after starting their own farm, they learned even more, and in some cases, had to learn quickly.

10

Kevin Brown spent much of this past winter traveling back and forth between Vermont and Maryland while transitioning to the farm on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Kevin would like to add fruit trees to the farm, which would bring more crop options to the farm he and Margaret purchased.

Although Kevin and Margaret leased the 10 acres that was Groundworks Farm in Vermont, they’re purchasing the farm in Maryland. The lease on the farm in Vermont was short-term, so the young couple had been looking for a farm to purchase. Their goal was to move to

Maryland or Virginia to be closer to their families and to take advantage of the market opportunities in a more populated area. Margaret says that they’ll have a definite advantage in owning their own land rather than leasing.

“Leasing is restrictive,” she says. “Some crops take a while to establish. The lease was a good opportunity to learn from experience, but we couldn’t reach the farm’s full potential. Owning our own farm and having that security means we can put in long-term improvements.

Kevin is thinking about adding fruit to the shares, so we’d be able to have an orchard.”

Margaret with a large sweet potato, one of the vegetables included in customers’ CSA shares.

Young greens get a good start as seedlings in a greenhouse.

Groundworks Farm grows greens for CSA shares and several farmers markets in the Washington, DC region.

Although Margaret and Kevin were successful in Vermont, they had to drive a considerable distance For more information visit to deliver to customers. “This move will make it groundworksfarm.com. easier to get produce to our customers,” says Margaret. “The farm in Maryland is 40 tillable acres, so there’s a lot of room for growth. Our plans for the first year are to do what we’ve already done successfully, then move on from there.”

Margaret says that although she and Kevin will have to make some adjustments to the longer growing season in Maryland, they plan to replicate what they did in Vermont as they discover what

farm | land their customers are looking for. At Groundworks Farm in Maryland, Margaret and Kevin will offer shares similar to what they offered in Vermont: summer and winter produce, pastureraised meat and poultry, eggs and cheese from a local supplier.

“We’re working toward a full diet,” says Margaret, who shares information with her customers about how to use fresh food. “There’s definitely a teaching component to being a farmer and having a direct connection with customers.”

Margaret and Kevin are still in the process of signing up shares for Groundworks’ 2013 season. Their goal is to offer 150 summer vegetable shares. “We had to wait to make sure everything was going to fall into place before selling shares, so it’s later than usual,” says Margaret. “We’ve had a good response, and we’re excited about the market potential. There’s a lot of room for growth, and this brings us closer to our families.”

People who subscribe to a CSA understand that each week’s share will include a variety of produce items, and the amounts and types depend on a number of factors. Margaret says that planning crops for a CSA can be tricky, but crop data from other CSA farms provided a starting point. Without a background in either farming or farm marketing, Margaret and Kevin had to learn how to manage the business end of farming along with advertising, organizational skills to plan the crops, and how much and what to purchase ahead of time.

“We think about the crop, approximate yield, and what we want to provide in the share,” says Margaret as she explained how they plan crops for the year. “On new land, we’ll quadruple those numbers because we don’t really know how it will produce.”

3

4

that year, the members won’t see it in the share. But we grow enough that we can still provide a diversified share.”

Growing plenty to reduce risk means that there’s a lot of produce left at the end of the season. To eliminate food waste, Groundworks invites people to the come to the farm to glean.

“We did it in Vermont,” says Margaret. “College students came to the farm and picked for food pantries. We hope to do the same in Maryland.”

While they were in Vermont, Margaret and Kevin conducted farm work days where members came to the farm and participated in various farm activities, which provided another opportunity for Margaret to teach. “We want to do the same thing in Maryland,” says Margaret. “We want to make our farm feel like more than where you’re buying food,” says Margaret. “We find that when people come and participate, they’re more invested and become more excited about the farm and the food. If you come out and help plant onions for the afternoon you’re going to be more excited when you get onions in your share later in the season.”

As of March, Margaret and Kevin have made four trips from Vermont to Maryland to move their entire operation. One major project was dismantling their greenhouse and putting it back together in Maryland. They were able to double the size of that greenhouse, which Margaret is happy about because she ran out of growing space. “A greenhouse in Vermont has to be ready for a lot of snow,” says Margaret. “There’s snow on the eastern shore, but the greenhouse doesn’t have to stand up to as much heavy snow all winter.”

For example, if Groundworks plans to include several heads of lettuce each week, they’ll do succession planting to make sure they can provide produce staples that they know people like to see frequently. For more unusual vegetables that aren’t included in weekly shares, they calculate how many pounds a crop such as kohlrabi will yield, how much each member will receive, and plan the crop from there.

In addition to the greenhouse, Groundworks has four caterpillar, or low tunnels that will come down and be set up in Maryland for winter growing. There’s also another high tunnel to bring from Vermont, and that one will be used to grow tomatoes and winter greens. One use for the high tunnels is to keep a supply of winter vegetables for the entire winter vegetable share. Margaret will direct-seed spinach which will result in fresh spinach for the winter CSA. She starts tomatoes in a heated greenhouse, then transfers them to a high tunnel.

Margaret noted that sometimes she needs to explain to customers that a favorite variety from the previous season didn’t do well and won’t be in the share. “It creates a connection,” says Margaret as she talked about explaining variations in shares from season to season. “Our customers have been really happy—we’ve gotten great feedback. We grow over 100 vegetable varieties, so if one kind of lettuce doesn’t do well

Kevin designed and maintains the website for the farm.

“We try to have as much information on it as possible so when people hear about us, they can go to the website,” says Margaret. “A lot of their questions can be answered there.

We also have a Facebook page, a blog and Twitter. We think all of these are important, and a great way for customers to feel more connected to the farm.” n

volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

2

11

First Time Borrower A-B-C’s story by NANCY L. SMITH

Carl Naugle chief credit officer

You’re a new farmer—or a more experienced farmer who has never sought a loan from MidAtlantic Farm Credit. You have done your research. You have a plan. You have energy and enthusiasm. You have just about everything you need to be a success.

But you need money to make it all happen. That’s where Farm Credit comes in. A loan officer can help you find the resources you need and get you started on the road to farming success.

You need to prepare for your first appointment with Farm Credit. Carl Naugle, MAFC’s chief credit officer, advises new borrowers, “Be knowledgeable about your operation. Show an understanding of financial, marketing and production management. Hard work may be good, but does not by itself ensure success.”

what to expect Be prepared to discuss your operation and financial situation in detail.

“Assemble a list of everything you own with estimated market values and every debt you have, including open accounts, generally known as accounts payable,” Carl says. “The liabilities should indicate to whom the debt is owed, the total amount owed, the interest rate, and the required payment amount and frequency of payment.

five Cs of credit Like any lender, MAFC will look at five factors when considering loan eligibility:

1 2 3

Character. Personal and professional integrity are essential. Be prepared to demonstrate your trustworthiness and present a strong business plan.

Capacity. The cash flow from your operation must be adequate to repay the loan.

Bring a projected income and expense statement to show repayment ability.

Capital. Your net worth is the difference between total assets and total liabilities.

4

A weak capital position may not be fatal to your loan application if you have other resources, such off-farm income, outside investors, or government loans or guarantees. Your loan officer can help you with these options.

Collateral. As with a car loan or a mortgage, you must pledge assets to secure

5

the loan. If the loan is not repaid, the assets may be sold to repay the loan. Bring a list of equipment and real estate you are offering as collateral. Make sure the remaining useful life of equipment is at least as long as the loan term.

Conditions. To reduce risk, MAFC will examine not only your financial condition, but

12

will look at the economy, weather patterns and other factors. Weather risk may be mitigated with an irrigation system. The risk of crop loss can be reduced with crop insurance. Plan for the worst case scenario and you’ll be better prepared.

“The income statement may be from farm records, income tax returns or wage statements, such as a W-2. For an operation that has been in existence for several years, bring multiple year balance sheets and income statements,” he advises.

Bring a business plan showing the type of operation, marketing plans and market outlets, and details of the operating expenses for the coming year. “A monthly cash flow statement will enable the loan officer to assess your needs for the entire year,” Carl emphasizes.

MAFC can help first-time borrowers navigate the loan process because “We understand the unique characteristics of agriculture and can share knowledge based on years of serving farmers and their needs,” says Carl. “MAFC can provide assistance in connecting the borrower with mentors and educational programs.

“MAFC is actively involved in agricultural community outreach programs,” he adds.

If you have a thorough knowledge of your planned operation and its related market realities, a solid credit history and a pragmatic business plan, your first MAFC loan experience can be the beginning of a profitable, long-term relationship. n For more information on applying for a loan, call 800.339.3334 or visit mafc.com.

Just as your lender will assess your qualifications, you should assess your lender as well. The borrower-lender relationship is a two-way street, and both parties have mutual goals. Both want to ensure the long-term viability of their businesses and have high expectations for one another.

When preparing to work with a lender, you should rate the lender based on the following characteristics:

1 Skills and Qualities • Does the lender have a stake in your industry?

• Is your lender forward thinking or looking back?

• Are they involved in agricultural events?

• Do they understand your business and the risks?

• What are the characteristics of their current borrowers?

2 Capacity • Does your lender have the ability to meet current and future borrowing needs?

• What are the lender’s limitations?

• Will they grow with you?

3 Products and Services • Does your lender have a cookie-cutter or a customized approach?

• Do they offer competitive rates?

• Do they offer flexible terms?

• Do they have services beyond loan products?

• Are there special lending programs for young, beginning, and small farmers?

• What are the rates, terms and conditions of their loan package?

4 People and Lending Philosophy • Is there a team approach to loan services?

• Does your lender prefer transactions or long-term relationships?

• Do they offer stability in a changing environment?

• Is the decision-maker (or decision-making team) accessible to you?

• Does the lender have industry knowledge?

• Does your contact have the ability to help evaluate options and alternatives?

• Does your lender value confidentiality and do they display high ethical standards?

• Does your lender value your schedule, and offer you convenience and timely responses?

your association

How to Choose a Lender

5 Long-term Presence in Agriculture • Does your lender support agriculture both in prosperous and in challenging times?

• Do they have a commitment to the ag industry and its people?

• What is the financial health of the institution?

• Does your lender make an investment in their customers?

Preparing for Your Lender – a quick checklist Here’s a quick list of items you should gather together before you meet with your lender:

• Balance sheet • Income statement • Cash flow projections

2 Written Business Plan 3 Personal Consumer Credit Check (your lender will request this, but it is helpful to know what your credit check will say) • Verifies balance sheet information • Credit history

4 Credit Score (your lender will request this as well, but you should know approximately what your score is. If it has

recently changed, you may want to bring documentation that shows why it has fluctuated). You can see your credit score once a year, for free, at annualcreditreport.com.

• Range from 300’s to 900’s • Factors that impact your credit score include payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, and new credit requests.

5 Personal Characteristics (you may not be able to “bring” all of these, but your lender will definitely want to see them during your meeting) • Honesty and ethics • Open and regular communication • Involved spouse/business partner

volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

1 Financial Information and Documentation

13

Board of Directors (4 year terms of office) Central Maryland Election Region No vacant positions

2013 Annual Meeting photos from aro photos by Amber N. Bullock

Dover, DE

2013 Election Results

Chesapeake Election Region

Area lending manager Marty Desmond greets his customers Matthew and Bobbi Jo Webber before the meeting begins.

Scholarship winners Shelby Dukes, Jake Jones and Macie Willoughby accept their checks during the meeting.

Hanif Yusan is all smiles a as one of the lucky door p

Customer service specialist Shalene Arnold and marketing specialist Holly Porter await the long line of guests at the registration table.

Stacks of these unique hats are a common view at our New Holland meeting.

Anne Weaver was selecte of the beautiful handma

Crop insurance specialist Teresa Gleockler, marketing specialist Matt Ritenour and loan officer Lynn Thornton assist with registering attendees for the grand prize John Deere Gator.

Virgil Shockley Worcester County Commissioner is feeling lucky as he places his entry form into the box for the Gator giveaway.

Wanda Perkins shares the winning a tub of spring fl husband Nathan and frie Max Schnoor (right).

The tables are set neatly with a colorful salad and tempting chocolate-cheesecake dessert.

Scholarship winners Sydney Tyler and Joseph Coshun are recognized and presented their checks.

Last year’s Gator winner L out his entry slip with ho lucky two years in a row!

Board of Directors Chairman Fred West and CEO Bob Frazee are excited about distributing $28,523,430 in patronage to our member-borrowers this year.

Gray and Larry Mullin are all smiles during the annual meeting.

Dick and Dolly Mason brow programs for the evening

Delaware Election Region Walter C. Hopkins (Lewes, DE)

Keystone Election Region No vacant positions

Marva Election Region Fred R. Moore, Jr. (Eden, MD)

New Holland, PA

No vacant positions

2014 Nominating Committee (1 year term of office) Central Maryland Election Region Wayne Rhoderick Richard Schwartzbeck

Chesapeake Election Region Robert M. Hutchison William I. Mason, Jr.

Delaware Election Region Guy E. Phillips Christopher M. Wyatt, Sr.

Walkersville, MD

Joseph D. Snapp (Winchester, VA)

Salisbury, MD

Valley Election Region

John B. Kline Leon E. Ziegler

Marva Election Region Kirk D. Carmean Douglas W. Green

Valley Election Region Timothy F. French Brett B. Wightman

14

Winchester, MD

Keystone Election Region

Congratulations

William “Beau” Bassler of Winchester, Virginia is the lucky winner and now proud owner of the Gator! Look for photos and a video of Beau with his new piece of equipment on our Facebook page at: facebook.com/midatlanticfarmcredit.

ed as the winner ade quilt.

e excitement of flowers with her ends Donna and

Leo Duncan fills opes of being

wse their ahead.

Chief financial officer John Wheeler shares the details of our 2012 financial results and patronage distribution.

Live. Laugh. Farm. Show it to us in a picture!

Board of Directors Chairman Fred West presents a check to one of our scholarship winners Andrew Hilsher.

Live. Laugh. Farm. Doesn’t it fit you to a tee? We want our 2014 calendar to depict these words.

Capture what you think these words mean in a photo and send it to us and it could be selected to be in our 2014 custom photo calendar! Farming and country living go hand-in-hand—here are some ideas to get you started: • Farm animals: sheep, lambs, pigs, chickens, cows, horses and alpacas to name a few • Crops: corn, soybeans, mushrooms, wheat, grapes, vegetable garden • Action shots: plowing, planting, harvesting • Equipment: tractors, trucks, combines, or another piece of your favorite equipment We know if you take your camera with you as you walk around your farm, through a field, along a stream or as you travel down a country road—you’ll find that perfect Live. Laugh. Farm. photo.

The top photos will be selected in September and winners notified. If you submit a photo and it isn’t picked for the calendar—we may use it in an upcoming Leader or in MAFC’s annual report.

Submission Guidelines: • Photos should be from MidAtlantic Farm Credit’s service territory or submitted by MAFC customers.

Loan officer Lisa Daffin chats with customers Bill and Shirley Edwards of SB Farms, Inc.

• Digital photos are preferred (file format should be .jpg). They must be high resolution to be used in printed materials. Also, if you are printing a digital photo to send by mail, be sure to use the appropriate paper stock as this will allow for the best reprint results.

Email your photo(s) and entry information to: ddawson@mafc.com • If you send a photo by mail, it is recommended that you place them between two sheets of cardboard or other protective material to avoid damage.

Photos being sent by mail should be sent to: 2014 Calendar, MidAtlantic Farm Credit, 680 Robert Fulton Hwy., Quarryville, PA 17566

• For best reproduction, photos should be a minimum of 5x7. However, smaller photos can be submitted.

• Horizontal photos are preferred. Vertical photos will be considered if received.

• A submission form must be completed whether you send digital photos or a photo by mail.

If sending digital photos—the same information on the form must be included in your email. If sending photos via mail—attach the completed submission form to your entry (do not use staples or paper clips).

• All entries must be received no later than August 16, 2013.

• Due to the volume of entries, photos cannot be returned. Please be sure to keep your original.

MidAtlantic Farm Credit | 2014 Calendar Photo Entry Form (Please print clearly) Volunteers collect ballots and place them into the official lock box during the voting portion of the business meeting.

YOUR NAME

PHOTOGRAPHER’S NAME

YOUR STREET AND/OR PO BOX

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

EMAIL ADDRESS

Briefly explain the photo (location, who or what is in the photo, what action is taking place (if applicable) and what season was the picture taken:

Board of Directors Chairman Fred West presents our scholarship winners Morgan Alexander, Amanda Smith and Rachel Russell with their checks.

YOUR SIGNATURE I/we own the images submitted and hereby authorize MAFC to use the photo(s) and/or reproduction of the photo(s) including the individuals in the photo(s) and/or the property in the photo(s). This includes the following media [and others not specifically mentioned] for the purpose of advertising and publicity of our services: brochures, flyers, and other collateral materials, newspaper and/or magazine advertising, direct mail campaign, annual report, and electronic media.

volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

as he is chosen prize winners.

your association

round our region

15

Although some production experience is necessary, there are many producers who may not meet the managerial requirements for traditional loans, but may be eligible for a microloan. FSA will consider an applicant’s small business experience, experience with a self-guided apprenticeship and specialized education to meet the prerequisite.

Cultivating Big Dreams on a Small Scale story by Lucie L. Snodgrass, Maryland State Executive Director, USDA Farm Service Agency

microloans gain popular footing; answer need for faster, easier credit As State Executive Director for the Maryland Farm Service Agency (FSA), I regularly meet small and beginning farmers and ranchers, military veterans and disadvantaged producers interested in making a living in production agriculture. For many, the high cost of purchasing land and equipment can be prohibitive, compelling newcomers and those struggling against odds to take risks to finance their dreams by relying on credit cards and personal loans with high interest rates. I am keenly aware, too, that the average age of our farmers and ranchers in Maryland is 57, and I am deeply concerned about where the next generation of farmers and ranchers will come from.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture understands the needs of these small, beginning and specialty crop producers. Through the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) Farm Loan Programs division, the Department responded to their needs by developing a new microloan program that provides up to $35,000 to help bolster producers who would not otherwise qualify for commercial credit during their start-up years. Likewise, it assists small, established producers who find themselves in extenuating financial circumstances.

16

Microloans are like other operating loans. They can be used to purchase

livestock, equipment, feed, seed, fertilizer and related supplies. But here’s a real benefit when compared to those credit cards and personal loans: the current interest rate for a microloan is 1.375%, making them so popular that as of May 1, USDA has already made 2,091 loans nationwide, for a total of more than $40 million.

It is imperative that we use solutions like the microloan to provide access to credit to those just starting out or those producing on a smaller scale in order to grow American agriculture. It’s important because agriculture can provide new jobs that will build our economy and ensure a safe and affordable food supply at home and abroad. In addition, these loans keep people living in our rural communities, sending their children to our local schools and doing business in our local shops.

Microloans are unlike traditional FSA loans in that applying for them is a simpler, more flexible process. By reducing the application form from 17 pages to eight and modifying requirements for experience, it‘s easy and far more convenient for both our customers and our employees. Like other FSA loans, however, microloans are targeted at producers who cannot otherwise get access to credit.

As the country moves toward more local food sources and joins the farm-to-table movement, there is an increasing number of people going back to the farm and selling their products through farmers markets and community supported agriculture. Microloans are perfect for those who want to grow niche crops to sell directly to ethnic markets, farmers markets or consumers.

Young future farmers and ranchers also will benefit. Young producers who previously secured an FSA Youth Loan to finance an agricultural endeavor, successfully repaid the debt and are of the “age of majority” according to state law, are eligible for microloans provided they cannot get commercial credit elsewhere and meet other eligibility requirements. The microloan graduates producers to a new level and further prepares them for larger FSA operating loans or commercial loans through the FSA Guaranteed Loan Program.

By expanding access to credit, FSA continues to help grow the industry on which our country was built—Agriculture. Through FSA, more than 128,000 loans totaling $18 billion have been issued. Last year in Maryland alone, we made over $10 million in loans.

Nationwide, the number of loans to beginning farmers and ranchers has increased from 11,000 in 2008 to 15,000 in 2011. More than 40 percent of USDA’s farm loans now go to beginning farmers, while lending to socially disadvantaged producers has increased nearly 50 percent since 2008. Maryland has been a leader in both categories.

At FSA, we aim for ways to help farmers and ranchers achieve their dreams, to be part of the American population that feeds the world, whether they are large-scale or smallscale operations. By supporting America’s growers, we help all Americans. We provide a secure, low-cost food supply and make a major contribution to the U.S. economy. And we do these things while nourishing millions. n For more information on microloans, contact Lucie Snodgrass at Lucie.Snodgrass@md.usda.gov.

your association

The Whole is Greater than the Parts story by Sandy Wieber

When you think of Farm Credit, you probably think of your local office, and the friendly staff members who help you there. Or you think of the person who picks up the phone when you call…the one who happily answers any questions you have.

200-person workforce that makes up MidAtlantic. You may not see (or talk to) all the staff members, but you know that they’re all an important part of our cooperative and they keep the association humming along.

In the same way, MidAtlantic is just one part of the whole Farm Credit System—a network of lending institutions in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, all dedicated to financing agriculture and rural America.

Across the country, Farm Credit has a portfolio of over $190 billion in loans, providing financing to over 500,000 members!

We’re proud to be a part of something bigger, especially an organization as critical to the country’s health as Farm Credit.

Which is why we’re changing our logo to make that more obvious.

a new look In the next few months, we’ll be

will remember that we’re part of some-

turning our logo upside down. We’ll be

thing bigger. Something that affects

making the Farm Credit part of the logo

their constituents locally, and their peers

larger, and the MidAtlantic part smaller.

nationally. After all, the Farm Credit

That doesn’t mean that we’re chang-

System is the most consistent, most

ing our emphasis on providing our local

important provider of credit to agriculture

members superior service, making local

in the country. It’s what we were set up to

credit decisions, or being an active part

do when we were created by Congress in

of our local communities. What it does

1916, and it’s what we continue to

mean is that our logo will now follow

do today.

national brand standards, and make it

You’ll see the new logo in this issue’s

obvious that we are just one small part of

Leader. Look for it in the next few months

the Farm Credit System.

to pop up on our brochures, business

By moving towards a more consistent

cards, and advertisements—we’ll be

look across the System, we’ll be helping

updating all of our marketing and sales

to build the brand of “Farm Credit.” That

materials by the end of the year.

could help us with some very important

We’re proud to be part of the Farm

audiences—such as Congress. The more

Credit System. And we’re happy that our

our individual association logos look

logo reflects that national pride!

n

volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

You probably know that your favorite staff member is just one part of the

alike, the more likely it is that they

17

Scholarship Winners story by sandy wieber

Keenan Albee Reisterstown MD Parents: Robert and Sim one Albee

Keenan is ranked nu mber one in his class of 341 stu dents, and it’s not because he’s taking easy classes. In fact, he’s taken 10 advanced placemen t courses in the last two years.

While he excels at all subjects, his true love is mechanical engin eering, where he can solve proble ms, and have a hand in designing the future.

Shelby Dukes Laurel DE

my Dukes Parents: Jerry and Tam

homore at the Shelby is a college sop , where she is University of Delaware medicine. There majoring in veterinary loves agriculis no doubt that Shelby to working ture, and looks forward her life. While with animals the rest of er of PROUD, at school, she is a memb Raisers of which stands for Puppy , a group that University of Delaware de dogs for the raises puppies to be gui visually impaired.

18

r Morgan Alexande Berryville VA

ck Alexander Parents: Linda and Chu

ool senior with Morgan is a high sch ple: this fall, big plans for little peo ginia Tech, she plans to attend Vir development. with a major in human will prepare That major, she says, really wants to her well for what she in elementary do—which is to work sn’t mean she’s education. But that doe iculture behind: leaving her love of agr her passion for Morgan plans to take m, teaching her ag into the classroo comes from. students where food

Andrew Hilsher Elizabethtown PA Parents: Daryl and Valerie Hilsher Andrew is currently a freshman at Penn State Harrisburg, but he already plans on returning to the farm. “Once I graduate I plan to take my education with me back to my family’s business, Longenecker’s Hatchery.” Andrew’s agribusiness major will prepare him to be the fifth generation to run the organization.

Joseph Coshun Union Bridge MD Parents: Jean and William Coshun Joseph is a high school senior who plans to attend Messiah College in September, where he plans to major in engineering. After school, he hopes to use his degree to help at home. “I hope to continue working on the family farm, where I can use my engineering skills to help create innovations and maintain the family legacy of farming.”

Jake Jones Milford DE Parent: Lisa Jones

Jake is a sophomore at the University of Delaware , and he is planning to “never wo rk a day in his life.” He’s referring , of course, to the adage by Confu cius, where if you do what you lov e, you’ll never work a day in your life . What Jake loves is agriculture, an d specifically plant science. He is ma joring in that field, with a mino r in food and agribusiness marketin g.

y Kirkhoff Parents: Dean and Audre

Rachael has Throughout her life, around ng bei always enjoyed Delaware at ior jun animals. As a made s ha she Valley College, r to he w allo l choices that wil d that fiel the in rk continue to wo joring ma tly ren cur is she loves: she r in no mi a h wit ce en in animal sci es com on ati du gra As agribusiness. ing opportunicloser, she is explor and genetics. ion trit ties such as nu

Sydney Tyler Frederick MD Parents: Daryl and Ann Tyler Sydney knew what she wanted to do early in life: she wanted to be a nurse. “My Nana wa s diagnosed with cancer when I was 11,” she says. “Watching the nurses help her, I just knew that was what I wanted to do one da y.” That day is coming soon, as thi s compassionate high school senior prepares to attend Stevenson Un iversity in the fall, and already holds an internship as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Rachel Russell Gore VA Parent: Sherry Russell Rachel is a high school senior who knew that she wanted to pursue agriculture as her career. This fall, she’ll begin the road to that goal when she attends Lord Fairfax Community College to major in ag economics. That major, she says, will help her share her knowledge with other people, and work towards her ultimate goal of becoming a cooperative extension agent. Rachel looks forward to planning workshops and seminars to inform people about ag.

Leslie Weller Quarryville PA

a Weller Parents: Terry and Cynthi

all farm in Leslie grew up on a sm very young a As Lancaster County. mers are far t girl, she learned tha animals, ir the stewards not just of ter. Leslie wa and d but also of the lan ut that abo e nat found herself passio up ed ow foll has stewardship, and jor in ma a h wit n on that early passio sburg om Blo at e enc environmental sci re, mo ho sop a y University. Currentl her education Leslie plans to pursue e. gre with a Master’s De

Amanda Smith Kearneysville WV

Parents: Tommie and Eliz abeth

Smith

This high school sen ior says she can’t imagine not ha ving a herd of goats or a barn full of horses within reach; she has loved animals since she was a little girl.

Going into an agricultural field was a natural for Amanda, and this fall she hopes to attend North Carol ina State University to pursue a degree in animal science. With that, she hopes to find a job that wil l keep her in touch with her first lov e—animals.

Macie Willoughby Middletown DE Parent: Robert Aaron Willoughby Jr. Macie is only a high school senior, but she already has a dream job in mind: she would like to return to the school she grew up in, but this time as a Spanish teacher. Macie found her calling recently when she was helping her younger brother study for a Spanish test. “I knew at that moment that I wanted to attend school to become an elementary Spanish Education teacher,” she says.

volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

Rachael Kirkhoff Bernville PA

community

Since MidAtlantic began awarding scholarships to area students in 2000, we have distributed over $175,000 to the youth in our area. It’s been amazing to catch up with some of our past winners as they’ve become agricultural producers, engineers, educators, nurses—some have even come to work for us! This year’s winners are no different—they are hard working, brilliant, and involved young men and women, And we’re sure that the future is bright for all of them.

Join us in congratulating our winners!

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Properties for

sale

Lincoln, Delaware

33.6 acres of mostly tillable farmland just east of Rt. 113. Good farming ground with operating irrigation well on property. Potential for subdivision (approvals have expired). Good soils for on-site well & septic. 2 entrances, one off Johnson Rd & one off of Rt. 113 via Morgan Rd. $240,000.

Contact Wes Cromer, Masten Realty, LLC, 302.448.1032.

Adamstown, Maryland

Centreville, Maryland

30 acres in southern Frederick Co. Scenic mountain views surrounded by rolling farmland. All brick owner residence, tenant house, 2 barns, shed, pool and pool house. Minutes from Marc train, Frederick city, Montgomery Co, Leesburg and West Virginia. $1,650,000.

Custom built home on 10 acres of open land. Private setting great for agricultural enthusiasts. Enjoy serenity of country life. $450,000.

Contact Sherry Burgee, Bach & Associates, 301.695.9600.

Contact Megan Rosendale, Rosendale Realty, 410.758.0333.

Chestertown, Maryland

Chestertown, Maryland

Centreville, Maryland

Paved, tree-lined drive with trickling stream leads to 6 acres of private waterfront. Extensive shoreline restoration completed. $675,000.

Contact Tammy Rosendale, Rosendale Realty, 410.758.0333.

Chestertown, Maryland

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Eastern Shore horse farm on 17.25 acres in waterfront town of Chestertown. Airy Hill Stables is an established boarding and riding facility. Features indoor riding arena with lighting, 6 pastures and 3 barns. Buildings have new metal siding.

Brick home with wood floors, woodstoves, and new appliances. $785,000.

54 acres, 37 tillable, 13 wooded with stream. Great hunting property.

No restrictions, 2 parcels, 2 percs. $329,000.

Contact Sharon Clark, Sassafras River Realty, Ltd., 410.778.0238 or 410.708.7854.

Cordova, Delaware

Contact Richard Bidden, Coldwell Banker, 410.778.0330.

Conowingo, Maryland

24 acres, house built in 2011 includes 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, cook’s kitchen, granite counters and hardwood floors. $349,900.

23 acre gentlemen’s farm in Cecil County. Located at the head of the Chesapeake Bay and includes 3 bedroom house, barn, garage, springhouse & pond. $399,900.

Lovely home on 19 +/- rolling acres with pool, pond, and 30x40 shop with well and electric. Home has 5 bedrooms, first floor bedroom, and kitchen with separate dining room, family room, living room and second floor recreation room.

Located 2 miles from Rt. 50 with easy access to Bay Bridge. $568,000.

Contact Chris Rosendale, Rosendale Realty, 410.758.0333.

Contact Charlie Roosa, Key Realty, Inc., 410.398.1247.

Contact Jim Latham, Exit Latham Realty, 410.822.2152.

Elkton, Maryland

Farmette with approximately 9.6 acres (4 acres tillable) includes a beautiful 3 bedroom, 3 bath rancher with attached garage, separate large workshop and 50x28 building with 12’ door. Perfect for motorhome, tractors, etc. Quiet setting. $429,500.

Contact Jeff Wright, Wright Real Estate, 410.829.0467.

172 acres, 1 mile from Elkton with 95 acres of fields, 7 acre pond and 65 acres wooded. Abundant wildlife. $5,814/acre.

Contact David Leager, Sassafras River Realty, Ltd., 410.778.0238 or 410.708.0891.

Dickerson, Maryland

Emmitsburg, Maryland

community

Denton, Maryland

Lovely 3 bedroom, 2 full bath stone rancher on 8+ beautiful wooded acres and nestled in the Catoctin Mountains. Close to Rt. 15 and Mt. Saint Mary’s University. 2-car attached garage, gleaming hardwood floors throughout main level and stone fireplace on both levels.

New roof in 2010. $309,900.

Contact Cindy Grimes, J&B Real Estate, Inc., 301.271.3487.

Greensboro, Maryland

160+ acres of beautiful farmland in Montgomery County Ag Reserve. Secluded home with spectacular views of Sugarloaf & Blue Ridge. Tenant house, pool & tennis court.

Could build another house. Equestrian trails—Woodstock. Poolesville School District. $2,490,000.

Contact Pat Smith, PBS, Inc., 301.530.9152.

Locust Hill Farm, 339 acre working farm with Circa 1820 brick Manor home, 6 bedrooms, renovated kitchen and 3 fireplaces in the family room, dining room and parlor. Four bedroom tenant house, 2 bedroom guest cottage, pool and 2 bedroom pool house. Barns & pastures. $3,600,000.

Three bedroom, 2 bath home on 5.72 acres located outside the town of Greensboro. Home needs a good cleaning but is ready to move in. Bring your horses, nice country setting but not too far from town. Sale is subject to 3rd party approval. $165,000.

Contact Skipper Marquess, Exit Latham Realty 410.924.3212.

Contact Mike Allison, Exit Gold Realty, 410.364.9009.

Galena, Maryland

Goldsboro, Maryland

Glyndon, Maryland

Hurlock, Maryland

EQUAL HOUSIN

OPPORTUNIT

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

REALTOR

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EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

REALTOR

Historic home is a private haven nestled in a rural farming community. Originally constructed in 1840’s and lovingly restored in 1967. Sitting on 4 acres, backs to land owned by the nature conservancy. Tall ceilings, 4 columns, 5 fireplaces, wood and brick floors. $297,700.

Substantial barn situated on 26+ rolling acres with stream, woods and building site for a future home. 3,000 sq. ft. barn could be converted into a 2nd floor apartment with barn access below. Enjoy goose, deer & turkey hunting in the 7 wooded acres. $199,900.

Contact Jonathan Olsavsky, Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty, 410.490.0369.

Contact Denie Dulin, Prudential Homesale YWGC Realty, 410.804.7141.

Contact Traci Jordan, Exit Latham Realty, 410.310.8606.

volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

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Deer Park Farm, exquisite Federal style home overlooking 2+ acre pond.

Gracious living with generous room sizes and high ceilings. Updated gourmet kitchen, 5 bedrooms, and 4.2 updated baths. Stable, bank barn, riding ring, groom’s apartment, riding trails. All on 146 acres located in the GSVH Hunt territory. $2,495,000.

REALTOR

®

Need financing for any of these properties? Call your local Farm Credit office.

All of the properties listed on these pages are offered for sale by local, licensed Realtors and Auctioneers. MidAtlantic Farm Credit is not affiliated with these properties, nor are we responsible for content or typographical errors. Please call the Realtor or Auctioneer listed for more information.

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Properties for

sale (continued)

Keedysville, Maryland

6.59 acres with easy commute to northern Virginia/Baltimore areas.

Cleared home site plus trees, bordering Antietam Creek and overlooking Antietam National Battlefield. Perc approved and utilities within 50 ft. $256,000.

Contact Frank Getz, Coldwell Banker Innovations, 301.992.9651.

Keedysville, Maryland

Libertytown, Maryland

Sub-dividable lot with a 24x32 insulated metal building with 200 amp electric services & 2 roll-up doors. Most survey work done. One lot for kids or sell off a lot after subdivision. Two percs done.

Good commuter location. $199,000.

127 acre working farm in ag preservation program. 82 tillable acres with 43 pasture includes bank barn, calf sheds and other buildings. Stone house built in 1800’s. $899,000.

Contact Sharon Lapkoff, RE/MAX All Pro, 301.432.2244.

Contact Pat Brunner, Mackintosh, Inc. Realtors, 240.529.0104.

New Market (Frederick), Maryland Rohrersville, Maryland

Beautiful country property consisting of 120 acres overlooking a spring fed pond.

This custom built home continues old world tradition of brick and stone. Borders Linganore Creek, fully fenced with run-in sheds, outdoor riding ring, 35x75 bank barn with 6 stalls. Large gourmet kitchen, 1st floor master, 2-car garage, formal gardens and so much more. $1,740,000.

Contact Maureen Olson, Real Estate Teams, 301.606.8362.

Located at the Frederick/Washington County line, not far from Burkittsville.

Incredible rural setting. Walk to Appalachian Trail and short drive to Potomac River and MARC. Conventional perc approved. $99,900.

Contact Ted Lapkoff, RE/MAX All Pro, 301.695.2996.

Taneytown, Maryland

61 acre farm, contemporary 4 bedroom home, enjoy the privacy this farm offers.

Unique dwelling, barn & outbuildings.

Large pond. Beautiful rolling land in hay & pasture. In clean & green. $399,900.

Contact Larry E. Haines, Haines Realty, 410.876.1616.

Taneytown, Maryland

Annville, Pennsylvania

Great hunting or outdoor living. Plenty of garden room and multiple out buildings.

Many upgrades including hardwood floors and granite counters. $375,000.

418 acres in Carroll County consisting of 3 contiguous properties. 165 acres with Colonial fieldstone house, 44x70 bank barn & 40x98 Morton building. 132 acres and 120 acres unimproved land, sold as unit, can be sold separately. Subject to CREP, rare opportunity to purchase large tract with road & river frontage. $1,095,000.

44+ acres plus exquisite farmhouse.

This 6 bedroom, 2.5 bath home is a must for the buyer who wants old world craftsmanship and fireplaces. Property includes its own landing strip and hanger! $735,000.

Contact Tom Boeshore, Rosendale Realty, 401.643.2166.

Contact Garry Haines, Haines Realty, 410.876.1616.

Contact Nicole Lambert, Re/Max Delta Group, Inc. 717.652.8200.

Sudlersville, Maryland

Need financing for any of these properties? Call your local Farm Credit office.

All of the properties listed on these pages are offered for sale by local, licensed Realtors and Auctioneers. MidAtlantic Farm Credit is not affiliated with these properties, nor are we responsible for content or typographical errors. Please call the Realtor or Auctioneer listed for more information.

22

All of the properties listed on these pages are offered for sale by local, licensed Realtors and Auctioneers. MidAtlantic Farm Credit is not affiliated with these properties, nor are we responsible for content or typographical errors. Please call the Realtor or Auctioneer listed for more information.

Annville, Pennsylvania

Annville, Pennsylvania

AUCTION: August 5, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.

61 acre farm. Beautiful brick ranch home with efficient heating and cooling system.

Includes two large pole barns, one for animals. 50 tillable acres. Has woods & stream. In private country setting but close to Hershey & Harrisburg. Call for showing or questions.

Contact Bob Wolgemuth, Wolgemuth Auction Service, 717.665.6684 or 717.274.5891.

Grantville, Pennsylvania

Beautifully improved 10.37 +/- acre horse facility with 7 stall stable and tack room. $34,784 worth of new fencing.

New heated waterer in both fields out back with attached run in sheds. No house but is perked and probed. Good location for Penn National horses. $275,000.

Contact Annette Cassel Means, High Associates Ltd., 717.697.2422, ext. 207.

Hamburg, Pennsylvania

Christiana, Pennsylvania

community

Need financing for any of these properties? Call your local Farm Credit office.

(2) adjacent farms available.

May be purchased as 96.6 acres (one parcel) or 131.8 acres (both parcels). Both farms are in ag preservation, Act 319 Clean & Green Preferential Tax Assessment. Over 8,800 ft. of water lines & hydrants. Fencing encompasses both tracts. $1,535,000 and $2,164,000.

Contact Christ W. Taylor, Beiler-Campbell Realtors, 888.786.8715.

Edinburg, Virginia

EQUAL HOUSIN

OPPORTUNIT

Truly outstanding describes this 56 acre East Hanover Twp, Lebanon Co, equestrian farm. An exceptional home designed with entertaining in mind and a first-class stable and grounds. Plenty of privacy and just minutes from highways and Penn National Race Course. $1,180,000.

Certified organic 28 acre farm, historic farmhouse with new wrap around porch, 4 car block garage, 2 car garage with workshop, 2 car garage attached to 28x72 barn with full second floor at ground level and 2 car block pavilion. Located close to major highways. $599,888.

Contact Mike Yingling, Re/Max Delta Group, Inc., 717.652.8200.

Contact Wasyl M. Onulack, Jr., Century 21 Keim Realtors, 610.823.7850.

Fort Valley, Virginia

Fort Valley, Virginia

Historic 1868 farm sited on 80 acres bordering the George Washington National Forest. Two story renovated farmhouse with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 large brick fireplaces, almost 4,000 sq. ft. of living space, wood floors, and 1.5 acre pond. Additional buildings on property. $925,000.

Contact Cindy Dellinger, United Country Shenandoah Valley Realty, 540.477.9791.

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

REALTOR

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EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

REALTOR

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Front Royal, Virginia

REALTOR

11+ acres partially fenced. Spacious ranch with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, country kitchen/dining room, family room with wood stove and hearth. Wood floors, laundry room, 2-car garage and full basement. Red metal siding on 50x30 barn with a spring-fed pond. $259,000.

Contact Bobby Poff, Johnston & Rhodes Real Estate, 540.975.0615.

For more information visit:

bobbypoff.com.

137 acre working farm. Included is an 1800’s farmhouse awaiting your renovations. 2 barns, one three-sided shed, assorted outbuildings & more.

Passage Creek runs through the property. Borders the National Forest. $1,100,000.

122.281 riverfront acres that is zoned agricultural. The land borders the North Fork of the Shenandoah River for 1,700+ feet in Warren County. $850,000.

Contact Victoria Stallings, ERA Beasley Realty, 540.335.1004.

Contact Vickie Henry, Sager Real Estate, 540.631.4626.

volume 18 | issue 2 | mafc.com

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

BALTIMORE MD PERMIT NO. 7175

45 Aileron Court Westminster MD 21157

Farm fresh financing.

As a young or beginning farmer, you know you need a variety of skills and resources to make your business work. You need to understand the soil, your crops, your marketplace.

You need a good head for business, and customer service.

You also need a committed financial partner. Someone who will be there for you, good years and bad. Someone who knows business—especially farm businesses—aren’t built in a day.

That someone is Farm Credit. Call us today and see why we’re the freshest option in farm financing.

888.339.3334 | Lending support to rural AmericaTM

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