Leader: Technology for a Sustainable Future

LEADER

June 2021

Volume 26 | Issue 2

Technology for a

SUSTAINABLE FUTURE How farmers are adapting to remain ahead of the curve

Plus: Meet Our 2021 Scholarship Winners!

In this issue Member Spotlight

6

Investing in the Next Generation Through the addition of technology, the Hepler family of Pitman, Pennsylvania, improved a dairy operation that has been a part of their family for generations.

10

Sustainability Practices Harvest Results While owners Ed Boyce and Sarah O’Herron created a picture of serenity at Black Ankle Vineyards in Mount Airy, Maryland, conservation and sustainability are at its core.

14

The Grass Really is Greener at Collins Wharf Sod Eddie Moore and his father, Fred Moore, Jr., use GPS on mowers and other technologies to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and conserve resources at Collins Wharf Sod in Eden, Maryland.

18

Planting Seeds for the Future Multi-generational farmers Matt Light and father, John Light, from Clearbrook, Virginia bring technology and experience together to push their farm operation to a whole new level.

Events and Reminders 4 July - August 2021

Industry 22 The Time to Invest in Rural Infrastructure is Now 24 Technology is Redefining Agriculture

Social Media facebook.com/MidAtlanticFarmCredit @midatfarmcredit @midatfarmcredit mafc.com/blog

Our Association

26 2021 Scholarship Winners

youtube.com/user/MidAtlanticFC

28 2021 Virtual Showcase

mafc.com/podcast

Community 29 Property Listings

2 LEADER

JUNE 2021

President’s message

Investing IN THE

FUTURE

Innovation is nothing new in agriculture. Ever since the first seeds were planted centuries ago, farmers have been adopting new practices to help them combat the challenges they face and make their operations more efficient. Think about where our industry would be today if someone didn’t invent the irrigation system, tractor, temperaturecontrolled poultry houses, or precision ag technology. And the exciting part is that we’re just getting started.

The future of agriculture relies heavily on technology, and many of our members are putting new, modern machinery to use, often alongside some of their tried and true practices, creating a blend of old school and new school. This combination not only helps their operation take a step into the future, but helps our industry lead the way in sustainability.

Larry Hepler of Pitman, Pennsylvania is a sixth generation farmer. Once both his son-in-law and grandson expressed an interest in taking over the family business, Larry knew it was time to upgrade to a new milking system. The robotic system helps them milk 80 head so efficiently, they have plans to expand in the future.

Blank Ankle Winery, owned and operated by Ed Boyce and Sarah O’Herron, is located in Mount Airy, Maryland. Not only do they create some of the state’s best wines, they have one of the most unique venues, with a tasting room made with walls full of

straw insulation and an eco-friendly living roof.

Over in Eden, Maryland, Collins Wharf Sod Farm was quick to adopt the latest technology, with plans to add more. Eddie Moore and his father, Fred Jr., grow over 600 acres of various types of grass, and credit their use of GPS and irrigation with their operation’s success.

Matt Light and his father, John, in Clearbrook, Virginia work together to blend the farming family’s multi-generational experience with today’s modern practices. Precision agriculture allows the fatherson team to better monitor their chemical usage, eliminating waste and keeping their land more sustainable for future yields.

These member stories illustrate the importance of technology in our field (pun intended), but the lack of access to reliable internet throughout our rural communities has become very evident, especially as we all tackled the virtual world COVID-19 forced upon us. Check out pages 22 and 23 for a special feature on this subject, written by Todd Van Hoose, President of the Farm Credit Council.

We also announce the 16 recipients of the Farm Credit Foundation for Agricultural Advancement’s 2021 scholarship program. Flip to pages 26 and 27 to meet the students creating the future of our industry. Maybe one of them will design the next agricultural innovation.

Enjoy your summer,

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

3

EVENTS and REMINDERS

Please visit mafc.com/blog/upcoming-farmer-resources-events to stay updated on all virtual and in-person events.

July 2021 1 Wheat & Barley

Premiums Due

5 Independence Day (Observed)

Offices Closed

15 Spring Acreage

Report Deadline

August 2021 16 Spring Crop

Premiums Due

questions or ideas

Leader

If you have any questions or ideas for the editorial staff of the Leader, contact Katie Ward at 888.339.3334, email her at kward@mafc.com or write her at MidAtlantic Farm Credit | 45 Aileron Court | Westminster, MD 21157. This publication is for you, our reader. We’d love to hear from you!

MidAtlantic Farm Credit, ACA Thomas H. Truitt, Jr., CEO

MidAtlantic Farm Credit Board of Directors Brian L. Boyd, Chairman T. Jeffery Jennings, Vice Chairman Paul D. Baumgardner Julie Bolyard Anthony M. Ill John Travis Hastings

Laura M. Heilinger Fred R. Moore, Jr. Michael S. Nelson Jennifer L. Rhodes Alan N. Siegfried Douglas D. Scott

David R. Smith Fred N. West Charles M. Wright IV

We hope you enjoy this digital-only issue. To receive the Leader in your inbox, send an email to Katie Ward at kward@mafc.com.

4 LEADER

JUNE 2021

The Leader is published quarterly for stockholders, friends and business associates. If you wish to no longer receive this publication, please email: unsubscribe@mafc.com. Use “Unsubscribe Leader” in the subject.

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 888.339.3334 or writing: MidAtlantic Farm Credit | 45 Aileron Court | Westminster, MD 21157

WE'RE WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU GO. Available on your computer, tablet or smartphone, get 24/7/365 access to your Farm Credit accounts with AccountAccess. Click the button below to sign in or set up your account.

Click Here for AccountAccess

member Spotlight

Investing IN THE

NEXT GENERATION WITH FUTURE FARMERS IN MIND, THE HEPLERS INSTALL A ROBOTIC MILKING SYSTEM Story and photos by Michelle Kunjappu

Not too long ago, the Hepler family was at a crossroads: sell the cows and continue with chickens and raising Holstein beef, or transition away from the tie stall barn, install robotic milkers, and continue the dairy farming that has been a part of their family for generations.

The cows stayed.

6 LEADER

JUNE 2021

“A

lot of the reason that we adopted this technology is so we could pass it on to the seventh and eighth generation,” says Larry Hepler, sixth generation family farmer. Taking into consideration the interest from son-in-law Dalton and grandson Reese, Larry and his wife, Debbie, chose to make the investment in the Pitman, Pennsylvania farm and move ahead with an entirely new milking system.

“You have to have the vision that you need to invest to move forward,” says Debbie. “It’s the vision and the understanding that this is how farming works — that you always have to keep moving forward.

“Larry doesn’t mind moving ahead and investing in the farm,” she adds. “It took me a while to see that, since my goal was no debt, but I’ve thought about it and see that we have to move forward.”

The newly-installed robotic milking system, which went online around the end of March this year, makes dairying less labor intensive and offers an alternative

to the constant milking schedule, allowing the family more flexibility.

“We expect it to get a whole lot better,” says Larry, noting that their herd of Holsteins came out of a tie stall barn and are working on the learning curve of adjusting to not only moving around more, but heading over to the holding pen where a robotic arm takes care of the milking on a continual basis.

Currently, the family is working together to farm 280 acres, milk 80 head, raise their own replacements, and feed out the steer calves until market weight.

Three broiler chicken houses gives additional diversity to the farm.

Larry and Dalton work on the farm full-time, along with full-time employee Sam Scheib.

Debbie, who handles all of the farm’s bookwork, is “busier than ever” with the new glut of information flowing in from the robotic system, which not only milks the cows, but also receives and synthesizes an

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

7

member Spotlight "Installing this new system is just a part of how the Hepler family keeps adjusting to the new applied science that keeps agriculture moving forward." enormous amount of information from each cow, transferred to the software from a tag in each cow’s ear.

“It has been exciting to walk through and be a part of this opportunity with the Hepler family,” shares Austin Benner, Farm Credit loan officer.

“They are willing to invest in new technology, grow their business, and include the next generation in the transition from a barn built almost 40 years ago to the state-of-the-art facility they have today,” says Austin. “I believe that commitment to moving forward showcases the traits, along with a strong business plan, that make them a great family to embrace technology to remain competitive in an ever-changing industry.”

The Hepler farm has seen its share of change and transition over the years. In 1795, Larry’s forbearers got a land grant reward in gratitude for their services in the Revolutionary War. Growing up on the dairy farm passed down through the generations, Larry remembers milking

8 LEADER

JUNE 2021

cows in a bucket and carrying it out to dump it in the top of a milk tank. Later, he recalls, they dumped the milk in a dumping station, which was carried out through a hose to the milk house. In 1984, he built 60 tie stalls and installed a pipeline.

After he purchased the farm in 1986 from his father, Larry grew the herd over the years, “finding a way to milk more cows” by building a free stall barn under the feed room and switching somewhere between 10-22 cows in and out at milking time.

“Until I knew I had someone who was interested in continuing to milk cows, I would have probably sold the cows and taken care of chickens,” he says.

With support from Debbie and interest from upcoming generations, however, Larry decided to invest in a robotic milking system. He had participated in several county Holstein club tours, had seen a robotic milking system, and been impressed. “When I saw it, I thought, ‘this is the wave of the future’.”

Dalton, who worked on a potato farm growing up, began assisting at the Hepler dairy farm during summers while he was in college, where he studied welding engineering. The summers spent helping at the farm gave him enough experience to be on board with the expansion - and his part in it. With a variety of systems and manufacturers vying for their attention, it was up to Dalton to help sort them out.

“Larry made me go see them all,” says Dalton. This assignment included three trips to Canada to see robotic milkers there, several on-farm tours, and a 30cow demonstration at a large fair.

Now that they have installed the system, they can work on utilizing it more effectively as they learn the ins and outs of the system. “We’re so new at this that we’re going to try a lot of things yet,” says Larry. “If we throw the batter against the wall and it sticks, we’re going to keep throwing the batter. That’s probably a never-ending process.”

The software is so thorough, Dalton shares, that the system can “test conductivity of the milk and the color of the milk and rate it, then every day my computer sends me a reminder of what I should look at.” He adds that the information gathered from the software’s herd summaries “helped me with a cow whose conductivity numbers were high, found that she was getting mastitis, and I caught it early enough that I had it cleared up in three days”.

Another aspect of the increased information available to him now is that with all the information generated on each cow, the program was able to make

a baseline for her and offer reminders on when to check her for heat, for example. “It’s like 1,000 eyes looking at every cow all at once,” he says, to the point of being “almost information overload” according to Larry.

Technology has much to offer in the animal comfort area also, as newly-purchased cow brushes have become a favorite of the herd. And tunnel ventilation has increased cow comfort and overall health, they believe. The performance of the tunnel ventilation system in the chicken barns convinced them that it was beneficial and could drop the temperature appreciably, so they copied that ventilation system for the new dairy barn.

Installing this new system is just a part of how the Hepler family keeps adjusting to the new applied science that keeps agriculture moving forward. As they hope to expand to 150 cows, possibly adding in Jerseys for components, they also are looking at renovating the old tie stall barn to include a robotic calf feeder for the calves.

With a goal of passing on a legacy of not only healthy and productive animals but also land, the Heplers have instituted numerous conservation practices such as no-till, riparian buffers, and a nutrient management plan — different things to improve the water quality. “If we don’t take good care of the land, they won’t have good land for the future,” says Larry.

“I’d like to see it go for 12 generations — I won’t be around for that but I hope it keeps going,” he adds.

“I've enjoyed farming all my life and I hope they do too.”

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

9

member Spotlight

Sustainability practices HARVEST RESULTS Story and photos by Andrea Haines

Oftentimes, there’s an overwhelming feeling of peacefulness or accomplishment that comes along with looking across a vast area of conserved land. Many land stewards know this feeling, whether it’s looking over a rolling hillside of apple trees in an orchard or viewing a landscape of crops blowing in the wind. Similar to waves crashing in the ocean, the feeling is grounding.

10 LEADER

JUNE 2021

O

wners Ed Boyce and Sarah O’Herron of Black Ankle Vineyards in Mt. Airy, Maryland, understand this sentiment so much that they incorporated a personalized terrace area where visitors can come and enjoy the green lawn and threaded lines of grapevines that cascade around the winery. “We wanted to make the winery a welcoming place for customers to come and enjoy the sunshine, along with the culture of the wine-making lifestyle,” shares Sarah. “Now that the limitations on guests are starting to improve, we have been making alternative plans for how to accommodate in-person visitors.”

The allure of the vineyard may be the enjoyable wine and pristine scenery, but beneath the structures and beyond the landscape is where the conservation and sustainability practices begin. The couple began their research years ago, traveling to places that are well versed in winemaking skills.

Wine is typically stored in caves due to their cool and preserving atmosphere, but not every vineyard can install such an area. Instead, the visitor area is kept at a certain temperature due to its plaster-type walls filled with straw insulation. “You can take a peek at the ‘truth window’ (a viewing box to check on the

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

11

member Spotlight

“The use of the system [Tock] has also been a great business asset, too, not only for the change of plans and market, but giving them the ability to track consumer trends and develop new ideas.” state of the straw) and also a see-through archway,” says Sarah. “The straw bale construction maintains a dry, cool area for our wine.” The post and beam construction, all wood taken from the farm, makes an ideal location for the straw. “There was no metal used,” she explains. “We decided to keep away from metal due to the changes in temperature and the possibility of condensation build up.”

Farm Credit loan officer Mary Jane Roop explains, “They have a great ‘R-value’ rating. Typically, a grade of 18 is good for insulation, but they are at a value of 50, which generally means they conserve a lot of energy.” Mary Jane has been working with the couple on their journey with construction projects and planning new ideas. “She’s been an asset to our business because she knows the importance of product turnaround,” expresses Sarah. “A lot of work goes into planning buildings and features, but there is also a length of time until you start seeing growth and a profit from the vines. Farm Credit understands that part of business, and we felt that they were a great fit for us for that reason.”

The rooftop of the winery is also very eco-friendly, supplied with a line of solar panels. Visually, the winery building looks like a home from “The Hobbit’s Shire”, 12 LEADER

JUNE 2021

with plaster walls and a living, green roof adorned with plants. “It’s cooler in the summer when the plants are in full splendor,” shares Sarah. “The plants on the roof are also a great way to blend into the landscape, too.”

Speaking of greenery, Black Ankle Vineyard likes to promote a crop that is low on spray usage. “We aren’t totally organic, but we do most of our weed control mechanically. It is very labor intense, but we feel that it is worth the effort,” explains Sarah. The wooden banisters are preserved vines and the rocks are used to decorate the patio area from around the farm. Even the décor is scattered with fossil-like leaf imprints and customers’ names in cement stones. “We also have a geothermal system in the old farmhouse and six car charging stations,” she shares.

Since the start of pandemic and regulations on limited in-person customer visits, the winery put into place an online system to help maintain their “new normal”. The vineyard still offers curbside pick-up stations, online ordering, a mailing list, and even combined business ventures with a few locally-owned restaurants to help sustain them through the abnormal timeframe. “Our virtual system is called ‘Tock’, we also utilize our POS (point of sale) system that was already in place. These tools enable us to use the systems

through an iPad so that we can communicate with multiple people on our team. Our kids were even able to help with curbside service,” shares Sarah. “Close to 60 percent of our orders have been from our wine club subscriptions. We are very thankful to have some very devoted followers of our products.”

Since Maryland’s allowance on more in-person visitation, the vineyard still remains cautious with their guests’ and staffs’ health and wellbeing. “We are still enforcing safer gathering practices,” she explains.

“Our online system has been a great tool in being able to allow guests to make reservations. We can then prepare for where they will be able to gather, keeping people distanced but also allowing some freedom to enjoy the surroundings. We want people to feel like they can relax while they are visiting us.”

Mary Jane adds, “The use of the system has also been a great business asset, too, not only for the change of plans and market, but giving them the ability to track consumer trends and develop new ideas.” They have even begun to expand on an additional location in Clarksburg, Maryland, named Live Edge Vineyards.

“The Clarksburg location will be similar to our current location,” explains Sarah. “We will also have an additional farm for the development of grapes.”

The couple has always encouraged industry growth. There were 12 wineries in Maryland at the beginning of their journey, and the industry is growing each day. “We like to collaborate with our neighbors because that develops a stronger connection and also a ‘consumer need’ for product,” comments Sarah.

“Melissa, our general manager has even started four acres of grapes. We are excited for her new opportunity, too.” The winery has also been a source of personal development for special needs programs, offering autistic persons employment in a safe environment during the pandemic.

Mary Jane expresses, “It’s been a joy to watch their dreams become reality because they have such ‘drive’ and adaptability to unexpected circumstances. The connections they have made within the industry is commendable, and their customers see their success and enjoy it, enhancing more word of mouth promotion.”

Sarah reveals, “We want our winery to take on the feel of a ‘coffee shop’ mentality. The store and tasting room is typical of vineyards, but I believe we offer something more for our visitors in the sense of connection. When guests drink their wine, they can sit back and enjoy the scenery and literally see where the grapes were raised and harvested.”

The summer months ahead are looking positive with excitement of food trucks, live music, open spaces for families to gather, a dog-friendly atmosphere, and of course, wine. Black Ankle Vineyards supplies guests with a vast array of wines, sure to please any palate.

You can find Black Ankle Vineyards online at blackankle.com Facebook: @blackankle Instagram: @blackanklevineyards VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

13

member Spotlight

THE GRASS

REALLY IS GREENER AT COLLINS WHARF SOD

Story by Nancy L. Smith Photos by Nancy L. Smith, Collins Wharf Sod, and Philadelphia Phillies

There is a bit of Maryland’s Eastern Shore in the City of Brotherly Love.

Practically all of Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies, is blanketed in sod from Collins Wharf Sod Farm in Eden, Maryland.

14 LEADER

JUNE 2021

Photo courtesy of Collins Wharf Sod

E

ddie Moore and his father, Fred Jr., a member of MidAtlantic Farm Credit’s Board of Directors, can boast that their sod has also previously covered Washington Nationals Park and FedEx Field both in Washington, D.C. and Camden Yards in Baltimore. “One World Series and two All-Star games have been played on our grass,” Fred notes proudly. The farm also provides about 98 percent of the grass at Congressional Country Club, located in Bethesda, Maryland.

Eddie’s great-grandparents began the farm 100 years ago, growing fresh-market fruits and vegetables.

Eddie became interested in growing grass at age 12 and asked for permission. His grandfather, Fred Moore, Sr., said, “I’ve been trying to kill grass my whole life and you want to grow it,” Eddie recalls. But Fred Sr. supported Eddie’s dream. “We started with about 60 acres of fescue and bluegrass. Now, we’re growing about 600 acres of a lot of different varieties of grass,” says Eddie. That’s enough to cover a baseball park

Photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Phillies organization VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

15

member Spotlight

"He [Eddie] believes precision agriculture 'leads to sustainability through efficiency'.” about 260 times.

Eddie, who employs 15 to 18 mostly full-time workers, has incorporated technology throughout the operation and plans to implement more.

He says, “I use GPS technology for tillage, mowing, spreading fertilizer, and spraying. It really cuts down on overlap which equates to time savings.

It contributes immensely to the quality of our product when you can get an even spread of a chemical or a product.” Fred adds, “We can spray more efficiently and more economically, meaning we get better use of all the material with the GPS.” Eddie says the biggest savings is from using GPS on mowers. “When you’re doing that every day for eight to 10 hours a day, those overlaps are important.”

Fred notes, “With GPS, the mowers can go to any spot in the field and you just press a button and the tractor drives to the other end of the field.”

“Last year we installed variable rate irrigation. It 16 LEADER

JUNE 2021

allows you to order supplemental water on certain parts of the field. We’re becoming a lot more costefficient in what we apply and where we apply it.

Customers wouldn’t know anything about this, except the quality of our product,” Eddie says.

He also uses automated harvesting equipment that rolls and stacks sod on a pallet, eliminating the need to hand-stack the rolls. Eddie explains, “It drives itself automatically. It senses the last pass that you made and follows it.” He believes precision agriculture “leads to sustainability through efficiency.”

The farm also incorporates technology that is not directly related to crop production. “We installed our own radio system. We used to have to text everybody and now we are in communication with each other in a 10- or 12-mile radius.”

Eddie is excited about his next innovation — e-ticketing. “We will be able to notify customers when loads are cut, when they are going to be delivered, and

Photo courtesy of Collins Wharf Sod

better service our customers’ needs.” Farm Credit loan officer Amy Rowe says, “This will set them apart from their competitors. It’s extraordinary for the sod industry.”

Eddie is looking forward to more technology. “I can’t wait for autonomous mowers. To be able to put a mower out into the field and let it do its job — that’s very intriguing to me.” Such equipment is not yet commercially available but Eddie promises, “I would be one of the first to sign up for it.”

He credits his family for his success. “It’s very important to me that I got to where I am with the

help of my family through teamwork,” he says. His father Fred Jr., wife Megan, and sister Renee Moore are important parts of the enterprise. His niece Kara Holland is also helping to implement the e-ticketing software. Through teamwork and technology, this farm can continue to grow for future generations.

Find out more about Collins Wharf Sod online at collinswharfsod.com Facebook: @CollinsWharfSod Twitter: @cwsod_

Photo courtesy of Collins Wharf Sod VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

17

member Spotlight

PLANTING SEEDS FOR THE

Photo and story by Andrea Haines

future

Driving down a country road, a typical motorist may gaze upon a field of corn, neatly planted, sprouting green leaves out of their respective rows. Unpredicted to them, there is quite a bit of science and technology behind each little seed that drops into the ground. Traditional agriculture has always moved in a direction toward feeding not just the farm itself, but the rest of the world, too.

18 LEADER

JUNE 2021

F

or Matt Light and his father, John, that came to realization when they had ongoing issues with their planter. They were looking over new products at the York Farm Show in Pennsylvania, and were stopped in their tracks when they overheard a representative at his booth talking about fixing an issue they had been trying to manage for quite some time. “What Chris [Creek] said that day stopped us in our tracks,” explains John. “I was wasting so much money and time on gear box/cables that the mention of a fix was enough to get my attention.” The solution to their problem ended up being the beginning of their use of precision agriculture technology.

The multi-generational farming father-son pair from Clearbrook, Virginia, work well together.

There is a work-family balance that can be seen when observing them together. Matt implementing the technology and John forthcoming with past experience, a definite succession pairing that is enchantingly working.

Matt obtained a degree in agriculture technology from Virginia Tech in 2012 and has been moving forward with implementing more efficient agricultural practices ever since. John agrees with the update in practices and sees it as a necessary tool to improve yields and get the most out of machinery; he’s been a

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

19

member Spotlight

forward-thinking businessman for most of his life and expressed that it is nice to see this trait in his own son.

“Precision agriculture has really changed how we farm,” shares Matt. “It’s like we pulled back ‘the curtain’ and are now able to see the full extent of what we can do to improve our fields.” Multiple platforms are used in everyday work, like GreenStar, Precision Planting, and Trimble to name a few. “We use some Kuhn and New Holland equipment, but most of our machinery is John Deere,” states Matt. Corn, soybeans, wheat, and a large amount of hay is produced on the farm. “We have one other employee, Ryan, to help with work,” Matt explains. “The land is spread across multiple locations, some is owned and some is rented.”

Matt explains that while the technology they use has cut back on the need for more labor, there

20 LEADER

JUNE 2021

is a level of common sense that still needs to be upheld to work around equipment. He shares, “I am able to collaborate with our team through the app on my phone. There is a ‘live stream’ option that is very useful. We also communicate over the phone while inside the machinery.” In fact, Matt was communicating with teammates over his earpiece while conducting this interview, a feat that makes it better for time management. “The only thing I would honestly like to improve is cellphone signal and something to better detect rocks,” he says, smiling.

Speaking of learning, John has been amazed at how much knowledge there is to acquire, but takes each new bit of information and analyzes it to perfection. “Everything we do can be recorded on the iPad,” he shares. “For our operation, we can look at singulation, pressure, pH levels, spacing when planting, fertilization levels when seeding, and more.

We are able to focus on growing the ‘perfect plant’ versus a faster plant.”

The family was able to have “land mapping” done to use in conjunction with the technology. “The mapping shows us a layout of the fields,” explains John. “The determination of high and low sections, and the type of soil, really allows us to determine what we need to do to prepare fields. We didn’t really know the potential of what these fields could do beforehand.” The Lights have even been getting more viable product from land that has been low on rain.

“As we’ve been able to really focus on balancing certain fields, each year has reaped a better yield,” states John. “Even the amount of growth we typically would get from a field edge, which is usually pretty low, has

“Precision agriculture has really changed how we farm,” shares Matt. “It’s like we pulled back ‘the curtain’ and are now able to see the full extent of what we can do to improve our fields.” elevated to the same as what we would see in the middle of the field. The edges make up about 15 percent of the field, which is pretty important if you have a lot of fields.”

The impression of agricultural bearing on the environment has been in the forefront of the consumer mind lately. Precision agriculture and technologies are a great addition to the environmental cause that agriculturalists already take seriously.

“We’ve been able to adjust our chemical loads and use organic matter in our fields,” shares John. Matt adds, “By eliminating waste upon application, we have made the land more sustainable for future yields.”

The data collected in fields like theirs have allowed science and technology an edge over plants prone to drought, pests, and more, ultimately producing a more environmentally-friendly product.

Of course, the question of cost comes into play approaching anything new and ag-related. “For us, we had been losing money on fixing issues, which ultimately led us to give this a try,” shares Matt. John adds, “Looking at the gains we have made over this period of time, I wouldn’t go back to the original way.

I honestly don’t know how others are affording to making it without these tools.”

“The Light family has been great to work with and they are respected in the community,” shares Jessica Harris, Farm Credit loan officer. “They are always looking to the future and implementing measures

that increase production and profitability for their operation.” Farm Credit has been working with John and his family for more than 30 years. Matt followed in this tradition 10 years ago when he purchased his first truck. “John has worked with us through the years for various financing with the cash grain and cattle operation. Since Matt has been back from school, he’s taken over more responsibility on the farm. In the past few years, his interest in precision agriculture has really peaked,” adds Jessica.

Jessica shares that Matt hopes to be able to expand his knowledge and use of this technology to assist their operation and other farmers in the region to better use technology in managing crop land. “We hope to continue to work alongside Matt to maintain the business plans,” Jessica explains.

Matt expresses that since Farm Credit has been involved within the family for multiple generations, the relationship is well established. “They just understand how farming works,” he shares. “The market changes, and the updates in technology - they follow all of the markets and changes with us.”

Respectful and hopeful to see how farming progresses for Matt, John gives his son ‘the nod’ of approval and will continue to support his endeavors right alongside him. Similar to the development of a field, it takes teamwork, some outside support, and a goal to stand back and look over the finished fields.

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

21

Industry

THE TIME TO INVEST IN

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE IS

Now

by Todd Van Hoose, President and CEO, Farm Credit Council

Rural America is the backbone of our country. Yet many rural Americans today don’t have access to broadband and the fast internet speeds needed to conduct their businesses, access much needed telehealth services or, as we have seen over the last year, enable their children to access schoolwork. It’s time to invest and rebuild rural infrastructure; and rural broadband connection is an obvious place to start.

T

he ability to provide resources, such as highspeed internet access, and keep people in rural America equipped to produce the goods that keep our country moving is a critical factor in America’s international competitiveness.

Losing that integrated network would threaten our leadership position in global trade.

This is why more than 260 organizations nationwide have joined together to form the Rebuild Rural Coalition. These institutions focus on ensuring that future infrastructure investments benefit rural families, rural communities, rural businesses and

22 LEADER

JUNE 2021

cooperatives, and U.S. agricultural producers. They understand that the infrastructure improvements required in rural America are fundamentally different from those required in urban areas. And together, they are working to ensure rural America receives its fair share of federal infrastructure funding.

Access to high-speed internet is vital for rural communities to maintain vibrant economies, healthy residents and a competitive agriculture sector in a variety of ways. And the need for nation-wide broadband access has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Economic Development: Lack of connectivity severely impairs communities’ potential to attract, retain and cultivate new businesses and residents. In today’s environment, there are few industries that do not rely heavily on the internet to perform their day to day operations.

Employment: Many people depend on broadband internet to identify and apply for new employment opportunities.

The ability to connect via email and video conference also expands rural employment opportunities, allowing people to work remotely for companies across our country and around the world.

Education: Teachers across the nation are increasingly assigning homework and adopting education tools that require a broadband connection, and digital skills are an everyday part of school curriculums. Without access to the internet, rural youth face the potential of falling behind their urban and international counterparts.

Healthcare: Telehealth and remote diagnostic platforms bridge the healthcare gap for rural communities. Through high-speed internet, telemedicine applications enable real-time clinical care for geographically distant patients and providers. Reducing the commute time that rural residents endure to reach the healthcare services they need is more than convenient; it spares rural residents from taking extensive time off from work if they live hours from the nearest healthcare facility. This is especially important considering the high number of rural hospital closures over the last 15 years.

Agriculture: Precision agriculture allows farmers to leverage real-time data collected across a network of variables and sources to make quick and informed decisions. As

farmers face challenges such as rising labor and input costs, intensifying global competition and adverse weather conditions, they need broadband access.

Precision agriculture technologies enable farmers to increase yields while decreasing marginal costs.

And America’s farmers and ranchers need every tool available to stay competitive in today’s economy.

Thinking about the big picture: Beyond reliable broadband, rural families also require access to safe drinking water, efficient transportation systems, accessible healthcare, increased housing options, updated agriculture research facilities and affordable energy.

The needs are many and the urgency high. We must stand together across organizations in support of improved access to broadband, as well as the other much needed infrastructure investments, to ensure a stronger rural America.

MidAtlantic Farm Credit understands their customers’ urgent need for improved access to rural broadband, and have advocated on behalf of their member-borrowers in a variety of ways over the years.

For example: they supported legislation in Annapolis to allow rural electric co-ops to offer internet service; advocated for increased access and affordability in conjunction with the Pennsylvania State Council of Farm Organizations; and collaborated with specific industry partners like the Delmarva Chicken Association to identify and vet new ways to connect their customers.

“The MidAtlantic Farm Credit legislative team consistently prioritizes the issue of rural broadband in meetings with members of our Congressional delegation,” says Kurt Fuchs, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for MidAtlantic Farm Credit. “We want our fellow community members to have access to this tool, which has become even more essential as we’ve navigated our way through the pandemic.”

As the cost of complacency increases, rural America demands the nation’s attention to address these infrastructure-related challenges. The needs specific to rural America continue to grow with time — and the longer we wait to make these investments, the more money it will cost. It is time we improve our nation’s rural infrastructure and, in so doing, empower rural communities and strengthen our economy. To learn more about the Rebuild Rural Coalition and Farm Credit's involvement, visit rebuildrural.com.

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER 23

Industry

Technology IS

REDEFINING AGRICULTURE Emily Snyder, Farm Credit EXPRESS Relationship Manager

Emily Snyder

24 LEADER

JUNE 2021

The general public still has the image of a man in overalls sitting on a three legged stool milking a cow by hand as their idea of a farmer. Nothing could be further from the truth. Agriculture is one of the most technologically advanced industries and many headlines today herald autonomous equipment.

E

ach of the major equipment manufacturers have an autonomous tractor on the horizon. Like, it-doesn’t-even-have-a-cab autonomous. You probably haven’t seen one of these in real life yet, although it is entirely likely that over the last several years you’ve seen tractors outfitted to run grain carts driverless.

Undoubtedly, you know irrigation systems now have sensors that respond to real-time field conditions.

Maybe you or your crop consultant are scouting with drones now. The trend that encompasses all of these examples? Mobile apps. Everything can be done with or tracked from your phone, right at your fingertips!

On my family’s farm, we just installed two robotic milkers. We’re a month in, and it’s hands down one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. Cows are healthier. Milk production and quality are up. A task that used to take several people is on its way to becoming a one man show.

Why the shift? Labor is a huge challenge no matter what kind of operation you have, and especially for

seasonal work. Saving time and creating efficiency are key to success. And honestly, some of this technology really isn’t cost-prohibitive anymore. The grain cart I mentioned? That system is around $55,000. One robotic milker? About $150,000. I bet your payroll numbers versus the cost of equipment over its useful life would be intriguing to many.

Another example of agricultural innovation is the Farm Credit EXPRESS (FCE) equipment financing program, offered through MidAtlantic Farm Credit.

FCE offers competitive rates and terms at many local dealerships, providing easy, on-the-spot financing for farm equipment, irrigation systems, equine, and ag commodity trailers. This program allows you to take advantage of cash discounts from the manufacturer for new or used equipment, with decisions within minutes.

Visit farmcreditexpress.com or ask a local dealer for information about Farm Credit EXPRESS rates when you're ready to upgrade your equipment and add some new technology to your farm.

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER 25

Our Association

•••••••

Brandon Bixler East Earl, PA

SCHOLAR McKenna Breeding Felton, DE

Cahlen Cheatham Myersville, MD

Colton Devalle Damascus, MD

Zachary Baker Adamstown, MD

Skyler Slimmer Myersville, MD

Lynne Thomas Fallston, MD

Rachel Waldner Harrisburg, PA

We are excited to introduce the sixteen winners of the Farm Credit Foundation for gricultural Advancement’s 2021 student scholarship program. Each of these students will be awarded $10,000 to pursue careers in the ag industry, totaling $160,000. The 2022 scholarship program will open in September of 2021. For more information and to apply for a scholarship, visit FCFoundationForAg.org today.

26

LEADER

JUNE 2021

SHIP WINNERS • • • • • • • Taylor Halbleib Elizabethtown, PA

Maddie Musser Mount Joy, PA

Arilyn Oatman Holtwood, PA

Paige Peiffer Lebanon, PA Sarah Scott Bird In Hand, PA

Leslie Webb Greenwood, DE

Rachel Widmaier Cambridge, MD

Garrett Wright Mardela Springs, MD

The non-profit Foundation was established in 2015 and is funded by participating association MidAtlantic Farm Credit. The Foundation awards scholarships valued at $10,000 to high school seniors or students currently enrolled in an advanced educational program. The applicants must be planning to pursue a career in agriculture and reside in a county within MidAtlantic Farm Credit’s five-state territory. Previous scholarship recipients may apply again.

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER 27

Our Association

We are excited to announce that we will be holding our Virtual Showcase again this year! This contest was created to give our 4-H and FFA youth an opportunity to share their summer fair projects, as some shows may look different this year due to COVID restrictions. We are proud to once again offer an opportunity for students to enter their youth livestock, dairy, horse, poultry or rabbit projects.

The contest will open on July 15 to 4-H and FFA youth, ages 8-18, who reside in our footprint.

All essay and video submissions are due by 11:59 pm on September 15, 2021 and must be submitted electronically. Each participant is limited to one entry. All winners will be announced in November on our Facebook page. The entries will be judged by selection committee using the contest scoring rubrics found on each contest’s page.

Junior Division: 8-13 years of age (as of January 1, 2021) Senior Division: 14-18 years of age (as of January 1, 2021) For more information and to enter the contest, visit mafc.com/showcase today!

Immediate family members of MidAtlantic Farm Credit Staff or Directors are not eligible to apply.

28 LEADER

JUNE 2021

Properties FOr Sale Camden Wyoming, Delaware

Beautiful and mostly clear 12.3 acre farmland just south of Camden and a short drive to Delaware’s beaches. Property zoned agricultural residential, allowing for two homes with a farm use, single residential, agricultural, some conditional commercial or can be subdivided. $309,000.

Contact Tyler Anaya, Keller Williams Realty-Central Delaware, 302.943.2274, tyler@theriveragroupde.com.

Ellendale, Delaware

Check out this well-kept farmhouse with an updated HVAC system, hardwood floors, and a large wood burning fire place. Featuring a four-door bay garage and a pole building with overhead doors and several sheds. Includes a poultry operation growing for Amick, with two houses approx. 21,000 square feet each and two smaller houses approx. 12,000 square feet each. Up to date and well managed. The contract will transfer. $915,000.

Contact Wes Cromer, Masten Realty LLC, 302.448.1032, wcromer@mastenrealty.com.

Chestertown, Maryland

This peaceful landscape offers a 45 acre livestock farm with a pond set just 10 minutes from Chestertown’s historic waterfront. Property includes five acres of pasture and seven acres of woods. The home offers an updated kitchen, first floor master suite and separate first floor apartment. $895,000.

Contact Richard Budden, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate, 443.480.1181, rbudden@easternshoremdre.com.

Cordova, Maryland

Eden, Maryland

Hurlock, Maryland

Don’t miss this one! Beautiful 6.5 acre building lot suitable for an equestrian farmette in a lovely rural setting in northeast Talbot County. Well-maintained in pasture with run-in shelter. Perc approved for sand mound system, survey complete and marked. Check county zoning office for specific uses. $195,000.

An outdoorsman’s paradise! 22.83 acres of tillable land. Excellent farm to add to your crop producing inventory. Opportunity to add wildlife plots and vegetative buffers. No easements to restrict improvements. Property will not pass for an updated land evaluation as there is no perc. $160,000.

What an incredible offering! This private three bedroom home has a detached man cave and separate commercial grade three bay garage/ shop. Great family home in a peaceful rural setting. $339,000.

Contact Karla Wieland-Cherry, Meredith Fine Properties, 4103108421, dkcherry4@aol.com.

Contact Doug Williams, The Land Group, 410.726.1831, doug@thelandgroup.us.

Contact Tim Miller, Benson & Mangold, 410.310.3553, tmiller@nationalpremiumbeer.com.

Lower Mt Bethel, Pennsylvania

North East, Maryland

Queenstown, Maryland

Don’t miss this ranch home on 52+ acres of farmland with rolling hills and lovely views. 49 acres are preserved and 3 acres unpreserved, located around house and down to road. Home is in need of an update, featuring an attached one car garage, wood burning fireplace, kitchen, laundry, dining and living rooms. Under ACT 515 for farmland assessment. $435,000.

This 21 acre property has a history of operating as a fruit mecca. Great potential to enlarge the operation into a full produce market. Not only is there a 30’ x 200’ building, double floored outbuilding, but also 750’ of road frontage on Route 272, three homes and many outbuildings. $925,000.

Contact Cindy Stys, Cindy Stys Equestrian & Country Properties, Ltd., 610.849.1790, cindy@cshorseproperties.com.

Contact Melinda Wimer, Harlan C. Williams Co., REALTORS, 410.287.0037, Melinda.Wimer@gmail.com.

Own a beautiful 20.6 acre property on the Eastern Shore and operate a successful kennel business.

Multiple income streams from kennel, stables with training, and a vacation rental. Buyer can reside in the three bedroom, two bathroom home in this tranquil setting. Ideal for veterinarian, groomer, trainer and dog daycare. $2,399,000.

Contact Laurie Zuiderhof, Murphy Commercial, 443.756.5102, laurie@murphycre.com.

VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 2

LEADER

29

Properties FOr Sale Reisterstown, Maryland

Rocky Ridge, Maryland

Trappe, Maryland

This beautiful property is 140 acres and is a stone’s throw from Liberty Reservoir, two miles from historic Main Street Reisterstown, and three and a half miles from 795. An ideal location for hops/brewery, vineyard/winery, orchard/cidery, horses, pick-yourown, sunflowers, corn mazes, herbs, truffles. Potential for organic. $999,000.

Endless opportunity abounds at this 61+ acre property with three bedrooms and three full bathrooms, completely renovated farmhouse. New roof and septic system in 2010 and new well pump in 2018. This untapped property is eligible for many federal, state, and county conservation and forestry programs. $795,000.

Live on “Mallard Point Farm” consisting of two parcels totaling 255 acres. The main house boasts 8,600 square feet of living space on one level.

Featuring hardwood floors, solid construction, gourmet kitchen, walk-in pantry, waterside deck, guest house, three car attached garage, multiple outbuildings, and a pier. $3,950,000.

Contact Crystal Brumme Pickett, eXp Realty, LLC, 410.707.3678, crystal@tracydiamondteam.com.

Contact Elisabeth Yeager, Keller Williams Legacy West, 443.878.5088, elisabeth@yeagerhomes.com.

Contact Cliff Meredith, Meredith Fine Properties, 410.822.6272, mre@goeaston.net.

Trappe, Maryland

Spectacular Talbot County farm bordering Miles Creek consisting of five buildable parcels totaling 285.47 acres with 160 tillable. Outbuilding (40’ x 60’) with electric and concrete floor, well and two impoundment ponds. $2,400,000.

Contact Traci Jordan, Meredith Fine Properties, 410.310.8606, tljordan520@gmail.com.

Westover, Maryland

ASSISTANCE WHEN IT MATTERS MOST The uncertainty of these last several months have taken a toll on all of us. With our Member Assistance Program, you (and anyone in your household) can utilize the following benefits for FREE: • Counseling: marital, parenting, aging, work life • Legal & Financial Services • Identity Theft Recovery • And more

Country living at its finest! Farm consists of 43.97 total acres of land including 25.56 tillable acres and 18.41 wooded acres in Somerset County. The farm is not subject to any conservation easements. $230,000.

Contact Ben Alder, The Land Group, 443.865.1344, ben@thelandgroup.us.

30 LEADER

JUNE 2021

All of these services can be used on-demand and are 100% anonymous. Visit mafc.com/map for more information, or call the 24/7 hotline at 800.633.3353.