April 2020

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APRIL 2020

M O N TA N A

GRASS ROOTS work on behalf of membership at the community level and with our state and national legislators is what makes MFU truly a grassroots organization.

businesses, as well as assistance to the health care system. The USDA will receive $23.5 billion.

This includes direct payments to farmers and ranchers of $9 billion, and $14 billion for the ComThe board of directors and staff modity Credit Program. Farmers participated in conference calls and ranchers, like all Americans, with Senators Tester and Daines, will also receive a direct payment Congressman Gianforte and to each individual that filed a tax Governor Bullock. Critical top- return with less than $75,000 adics were discussed that affect the justed gross income.

Montana Farmers Union membership. President Walter Schweitzer The Small Business Administramoderated the calls. The board of tion will supervise the Paycheck directors asked a series of ques- Protection Program (PPP) and pertaining to the challenges producers are eligible. The PPP MFU BOARD TALKS TO tions farmers and ranchers are facing. will provide funding for up to 8 STATE LEADERS weeks of payroll costs including

BY KIM MANGOLD CARES ACT benefits. Also, there is funding to D I R E C TO R O F G OV E R N M E N T assist with interest on mortgages, A F FA I R S Each call initially focused on the rent and utilities. PPP funds must Montana Farmers Union board $2 trillion CARES Act and the be applied for and are allocated has 10 directors who represent qualifying language and programs on a first come first serve basis. districts throughout the state. that affect agriculture and rural FDIC is implementing a 3-month They are farmers and ranchers Montana. The CARES Act pro- holiday on loan payments. Lowho know first-hand the strug- vides assistance to employees and cal banks and credit unions have gles producers are facing. Their businesses, including agriculture made a commitment to recognize NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE

PAID LIVINGSTON, MT PERMIT NO. 93

this loan holiday. Interested parties must contact their own bankers.

Inverness rancher and board of director Jeff Bangs asked a question about further Market Facilitation Payments due to continuing trade issues. However, given the focus on COVID-19 and the CARES ACT, it did not sound like this is under current examination.

Healthcare The two major issues discussed in every call involved the medical crisis and the financial crisis today. Jordan rancher and board of director Brett Dailey brought up concerns about our small rural hospitals and the lack of funding and staff to care for everyone during the peak of the coronavirus.

C O N T I N U E D PA G E 4

IN THIS ISSUE....

- Tips to keep your mental health sharp - Economic impact of COVID-19 on cattle markets - Details of the CARES ACT as it relates to agriculture - Evaluating the history of agricultural exports

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APRIL 2020

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Coronavirus is impacting all of us in many different ways. The anticipation of what will happen next is part of many conversations.

I have been remote conferencing with phone or video nearly every day since the middle of March. The whole country is reeling from the economic shutdown nationwide. Some of this could have been prevented had we taken seriously the threat in January and started ramping up our testing. Knowing the severity of the infection by region/ state and where the hotspots are located are critical to managing a disease outbreak. Because testing didn’t get started until late March our leaders are being forced to make difficult decisions about social distancing requirements without having proper information.

up the chain at slaughter plants risking workers and food safety but won’t allow your local butcher to slaughter and sell meat. Brazilian Coronavirus has put a microscope on our food owned JBS plants in the US have had millions supply chain. It is corrupt and broken. The of pounds of meat recalled each year for the multinational meat packers took advantage of last several years. How is that better than your the crisis by price gouging the consumers and local butcher? Now, we are seeing these large the producers. The packers charged more for processors shut down because of coronaviboxed beef and paid the producers less for rus outbreak in the workplace. This is going live animals; this is wrong anytime but taking to cause even more disruption in our supply advantage of Americans during a crisis is a chain. We should be processing more of our whole new level of wrong. Leaders from all food regionally, but our local butcher shops over the US are asking for an investigation. seem to be getting more scrutiny. American There really is no need for an investigation of agriculture had become good at feeding the their guilt, the packers did this in plain daylight world. I just worry that the system we have and the NCBA (the packers lobbying arm) ad- may prevent us from feeding ourselves. mitted it in a letter to the White House. The only question that needs an answer is, how With adversity comes opportunity. Coronavimuch did the price gouge cost? Was it $500 rus has put a microscope on our food proper head, $600 or even more? Multiply this cessing and distribution system. I hope our by the number of head and fine the packers leaders will see that food security should be a this amount or more. Collecting that fine priority. As more large multinational processwill probably fully reimburse the agriculture’s ing plants shutdown, everyone will see we portion of the CARES act. It is not just the have a broken system. This is an opportunity meat packers. Milk processors are selling dairy to address the US food system. We need to products at higher prices, grocery stores are decentralize our processing, take it out of the rationing dairy products and the processors hands of a few multinational corporations, are paying the producers less. The processors and put it back in the hands of many in all are also refusing to buy milk originally des- regions of the US. tined for schools and restaurants telling the producers to dump milk down the drain.

These monopolies have dictated policy to Congress and USDA for too long. Concentrating our processing in the hands of a few is not only bad economic policy, it is bad policy for food security. It seems insane that the USDA has allowed multinational packers to speed

ON THE MONTANA FAMILY FARM TV SEGMENT

Cowles Media Reporter Nikki DiRico is filming a television segment taking viewers inside the perspective of Montana Farmers Union President and Geyser rancher Walter Schweitzer.

Part 1 of the television segment looks at the everyday struggles of farmers and ranchers and the future of agriculture in Montana. Part 2 covers truth in labeling and the importance of transparency for the consumer. Part 3 examines how COVID-19 is impacting the ranching industry specifically referring to price gouging by the multi-national meat packers. As President Schweitzer notes the packers have been selling more boxed beef at a higher price and paying the cattle producer less.

The Montana Family Farms segment airs statewide on Cowles Media station affiliates and on the Montana Farmers Union’s website in the Media Library section at https://montanafarmersunion.com/links/media-library/.

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APRIL 2020

IN THIS ISSUE

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!!

Call with leaders contined; Apply for the Beginning Farmers Institute program today!

Page 4

Member Recruited by

Jason Hellie, Whitewater William & Dallas Kennedy, Ekalaka Phillip & Karla Sudbrack, Saco Jack Witcher, Miles City David Sherod, Lavina Richard Walker, Huntley Stene Hultgren, Laurel Brett & Melissa Severinsen, Fairfield Jerome Strand, Reserve Joel Beck, Fairfield Jordan Heirs Inc, Plains Destry & Stacy Torgerson, Hot Springs Phyllis Hansberry, Eureka James & Georgine Powers, Libby Gerald McKenzie, Eagle Point OR Zachary Seligman, St Ignatius Flying U LLC, Missoula Alverd & Linda Marcure, Charlo Jill & Dale Vitt, Fairview Jason & Desiree Raymond, Wisdom Jeremy & Trisha Klempel, Great Falls Shelby Harwood, Geyser

Shane Anderson Tayler Kennedy Del Hansen Ron & Blayne Watts Kaylen Lehner K J Fauth K J Fauth Dirk Elings J R Johnson Mathew Luedtke Lisa French Lisa French Randy Bloom Colleen Wood Bryan Jones Andrew Luedtke Andre Marcure Andre Marcure MFU Office MFU Office Justin Hager Phillip Prewett

Three centuries of agricultural exports: When they’re hot, they’re hot and when they’re not, they’re not, Guest article by David Schaffer Page 5 Weed flora if hemp fields in west-central Montana, Guest article by Robert W. Pal & Nathan Carpenter

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Weed flora continued Page 7 Washington Corner, Page 8 Tips to keep your mental health sharp!

Guest article by Darla Tyler-McSherry Page 9

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:

Summer Camp Preview Page 10

Thank you E.L. Peterson Ranch of Judith Gap for supporting MFU’s Youth Leadership Development Program!

MFU announces scholarship winners; STEM Education coming to your community!

Page 11

In Memoriam

Mrs. Lawrence (Betty Jean) Styren, Brady

Day Camp preview Page 12 Farmers Share Page 13

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA!

@MFUfarmers

mfumt

What’s your normal?; Page 14 Producers face up hill battle with COVID-19; USCA release data on the cattle market, Page 15

@MFUfarmers 3

MONTANA FARMERS UNION PO BOX 2447 300 RIVER DRIVE NORTH GREAT FALLS MT 59403 PHONE: (406) 452-6406 1-800-234-4071 FAX: (406) 727-8216 mfu@montanafarmersunion.com www.montanafarmersunion.com Board of Directors: Walter Schweitzer, President Rollie Schlepp, Vice President, Conrad Jan Tusick, Secretary/Treasuer, District 6, Ronan Erik Somerfeld, District 2, Power Jeff Bangs, At-Large Director District 1& 2, Inverness Eric Bergman, District 1, Fort Shaw Brett Dailey, District 4, Jordan William Downs, District 5, Molt Ben Peterson, At-Large director, Judith Gap Sig Rudie, Fairview, At-Large director Sarah Rachor, Sidney, District 3 State Office Staff: Jan Johnson, Office Mgr., Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer Lyndsay Bruno, Communications Director/ Editor Justin Loch, Membership Director Kim Mangold, Government Affairs Director Dave Snuggs, Facility Director Violet Green, Education Coordinator Vicky Jo Reeves, Education & Program Assistant

Copyright © Montana Farmers Union, 2020 Montana Grassroots is the official publication of the Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, Montana Division. MFU reserves the right to reject any advertisements.

Third Class bulk postage paid at Great Falls MT 59401.

Membership: $50.00 per year Montana Grassroots is published 10 times each calendar year with two combined issues.

Article submissions are requested by the 15th of the month. Advertising space is available.

Copy Editor: Jan Johnson Editor/Designer: Lyndsay Bruno

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CALL WITH LEADERS CONTINUED

There are now more opportunities to expand telemedicine programs into mental health services which would provide a needed service in small communities that do not have access to counselors. Additionally, there is a drastic need for financial counseling in the rural communities that will assist with producers that are experiencing financial stress. Today, there is a bigger need to access all the financial resources available to farms, ranches and agriculture businesses. A thorough and helpful assistance program would go a long way in helping Montanans.

While Montana’s leadership is working to secure a safe environment for all of us, there are grave concerns about food production and medical care.

Local Food Program Manager for the Lake County Community Development Center and Board of Director Jan Tusick brought up concerns of our local food producers regarding farmer’s markets and distributions to food banks, schools and institutions. The representatives plan to work to address the concerns with local food as well as access to some of the state and federal funds.

Questions were raised about the local meat processors limitations.

It seems that many of our local butchers are prevented by USDA from processing, donating and distributing livestock to our local food banks. Given our food crisis right now, our food banks should be able to source more local food. It seems insane that a butcher can process roadkill deer for the food bank but cannot process locally raised livestock. The issue regarding the limitation of our local meat processors was addressed with Governor Bullock.

He stated that his office is trying to work out a solution with the

APRIL 2020

federal meat inspectors to allow butcher shops the opportunity to process donated livestock targeted for distributions to food banks.

of foreign meat being imported into the USA. Since foreign meat is allowed into this country, shouldn’t it receive an accurate label to allow more effective traceability of animals sent to Power Farmer and Board of Di- slaughter? Doesn’t this lend itrector Eric Somerfeld who serves self to a disaster when it comes on the State Milk Board brought to a potential tainted or contamiup the complications with the nated food product? Consumers Milk Industry in Montana. In should know the truth about food particular the issue of stores lim- sources. iting the amount of milk sold to consumers is causing market disruption. Governor Bullock stated Financial Crisis that he would raise the issue with supermarkets and stores.

Statistically, the national numbers of Chapter 12 farm bankruptcies Price Gouging have increased over 24% from the previous year. While these figures A considerable amount of dis- are less than the farm crisis of the cussion centered on the packing 1980’s we have less farmers than industry and their monopolistic we had in the 1980’s. The supbusiness practices. The Packing port provided through the trade Industry is making more mon- aid package was expected to help ey now than ever while paying farmers with the market loss reacthe Montana cattlemen less and tion from the trade wars but becharging the consumer more. It cause the USDA raised the caps is obvious price gouging. Judith allowing large corporations to get Gap rancher and Board of Direc- most of the payments it left very tor Ben Peterson stated that he little for the family farm. lost in excess of $80,000.00 on the cattle he has on feed in the last month. Peterson asked if there is support for amending the Mandatory Price Reporting rules?

He asked about support to help the wool and sheep industries that are deeply impacted by the trade war as well as the pandemic.

Truth in Labeling

Most producers in Montana did not receive enough to carry them through the year financially. If bankruptcies are up 24%, then think of the number of farmers that just gave up and walked away or sold their place.

These outreach efforts by the board and staff at Montana Farmers Union helps our state leaders All of our representatives agreed understand these issues. We will to a reexamination of the Prod- continue to provide education uct of USA label and are con- and information to our federal cerned that foreign beef can dis- and state decision makers. play the “Product of USA” label.

There is concern about the safety 4

National Farmers Union's Beginning Farmer Institute (BFI) is a free training program that prepares beginning farmers of all ages and operation types for a successful future in agriculture.

Participants will attend three inperson learning sessions over the course of the year, one each in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, CA, and Nashville, TN. The sessions include farm tours, seminars on a variety of beginning farmers issues – such as business planning, USDA programs, and access to credit – as well as the opportunity to meet with members of Congress.

Each year's curriculum will be tailored to the participants' needs as determined by a pre-attendance survey. Applications for the BFI class of 2020-2021 are open through June 15. Learn more and apply at https://nfu.org/education/beginning-farmer-institute/

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THREE CENTURIES OF AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS:WHEN THEY’RE HOT,THEY’RE HOT AND WHEN THEY’RE NOT, THEY’RE NOT B Y DAV I D S C H A F F E R D I R E C TO R , A G R I C U L T U R A L P O L I C Y A N A LY S I S CENTER

In any discussion of agricultural policy and strategies to overcome low prices, one of the solutions that always in on the table is exports. It doesn’t matter whether the farmers grow wheat or raise cattle, the great hope for overcoming low prices is to negotiate trade agreements that will open new markets for US production and result in higher farm prices.

The hope is that we can export our way to prosperity.”

As Dr. Phil would say, “How’s that working for you?” To answer that question, let’s take a journey through history beginning in 17th century Colonial America.

In the early 17th century, tobacco smoking became fashionable in England so farmers in Colonial America received favorable prices for all that they could produce.

The prices were so profitable that colonial farmers increased production to the point where 40 years later the price had dropped to a point well below the full cost of production. In response some

of the American colonies enacted production restrictions on their farmers in hopes of increasing the price.

A similar story can be told for both indigo and cotton production. By the 19th century, the production of cotton in the colonies exceeded the amount that English cotton mills could weave into cloth and market. As a result, a once profitable crop was being produced at an extremely low price for lack of a profitable alternative crop for some of cotton’s acres.

In the mid-19th century as a sea of men flooded California in search of gold, some ended up in the Central Valley as farmers where they raised wheat on the flat fertile land. Their market was England and Europe and the prices were good, despite significant shipping costs. And then farmers in Argentina took note and began to grow wheat. With lower shipping costs between Argentina and Europe, the California wheat market collapsed.

MDA RECRUITS FOR NOXIOUS WEED SEED FREE FORAGE ADVISORY COUNCIL The Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) is currently recruiting for open positions on its Noxious Weed Seed Free Forage Advisory Council. The following council terms are currently vacant: • Certified Weed Seed Free Forage Producer (Eastern Region) • Certified Weed Seed Free Forage Producer (Any Region) • Outfitter’s or Guide’s Organization The following council terms expire September 2020:

Most farmers have heard stories about the agricultural boom during WWI and the bust that followed to the signing of the Armistice. A farm depression in the 1920s was followed by the Great Depression in the 1930s. WWII triggered an increase in production and exports to Europe followed by a slow slide in agricultural prices into the 1950s and beyond.

The Soviet Union’s purchase of US wheat in 1972 triggered a surge in optimism about agricultural prices and farmers were encouraged to plant fencerow to fencerow by Secretary of Agriculture Earl Butz. Farmers took his advice to heart and the 1973-1975 price spike turned once again into a slump that resulted in the farm crisis of the 1980s.

It could be argued that exports have been the great hope and great heartbreak of US agriculture while steadily growing domestic demand has been ignored.

When faced with a new source of demand for one or more agricultural products, US farmers have

• Certified Weed Seed Free Forage Producer (Central Region) • Western County Weed District Representative • Eastern County Weed District Representative • Forage Product Processor

repeatedly shown the ability to increase production to meet the new demand to the point of overproduction and falling prices. Export demand is ephemeral depending on the needs of others. The farmers in most nations are the same as farmers in the US, they want to feed their own people. For them local food production is a matter of national security and imports from the US or elsewhere become a necessity only when local production falters.

Historically, long-term high and ever-growing levels of exports have not been sustainable. While one does not want to minimize the importance of the trade agreements; a little restraint in expectations is in order. The thing that is the long-term source of increasing demand for US agricultural products is domestic demand. Perhaps then farmers and policy makers should design production systems and agricultural policies to meet this demand at a profitable price and treat exports for what they are: “icing on the cake.”

Those interested in serving on the Noxious Weed Seed Free Forage Advisory Council can submit a letter of interest and apply to MDA

by July 1, 2020. More information and applications are available on the NWSFF Council website.

Nominations can be submitted to Montana Members of the advisory council provide Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 200201, guidance to the Noxious Weed Seed Free For- Helena, MT 59620-0201, or agr@mt.gov. age (NWSFF) Program, which implements a cooperative forage and product certification system with federal, state, local, and private land managers that benefits Montanans and other states by producing and making available forage free of noxious weed seeds. Council meetings take place annually on one day in January or February.

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WEED FLORA OF HEMP FIELDS IN WEST-CENTRAL MONTANA

B Y R O B E R T W. P A L 1 A N D N AT H A N C A R P E N T E R D E PA RT M E N T O F B I O L O G I C A L S C I E N C E S / D E P A R T M E N T O F C H E M I S T RY A N D G E O C H E M I S T RY, M O N TA N A T E C H N O L O G I C A L U N I V E R S I T Y

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really functions in its growing environment.

For instance, we do not know what the most common weeds in Montana hemp fields are.

As an organic crop alternative, how competitive is hemp against problem weeds? Can the plant itself become weedy in its new growing ranges? Such questions are important to address before mass production.

Within the framework of a small research project funded by the Montana Farmers Union, we surveyed active (25 random plots) and abandoned (25 random plots) hemp farmlands, mainly in the Helena area of westcentral Montana. The field surveys were conducted in early August of 2019. The hemp was seeded, in most cases, in early June. In addition, a greenhouse competition experiment tested the competitive ability of hemp with five weeds and five native plants.

The mean coverage of hemp, in the active fields, was 60.8% and there was approximately 20.5% bare ground, which was prone to weed Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), a multi- infestation. The average height of hemp was purpose agricultural crop and an ideal alter- 36.3 inches (the smallest measured plant was native for organic farming, is becoming more 2 inches and the highest was 77.16 inches). popular among farmers in several states in the The mean stem number was 56.76/m2 (5.1 US, including Montana. However, in many plants/ft2), which is slightly lower than the respects, little is known about how this plant recommended target plant density. We found

a very strong relationship between hemp stem numbers and weed cover. As the stem number grew the weed cover decreased, and by around 80-90 stem/m2 (7.2-8.1 plants/ft2) the weed cover dropped to nearly zero.

In these active fields, we recorded a total of 23 weed species and an average of 4.4 species per plot. The mean weed cover in the studied plots was 24.17% (the lowest cover was 1.5% while the highest reached 80%). The frequency and mean cover of the ten most dominant and frequent weeds can be found in Figure 1 and 2. All listed weeds in the active hemp fields were dicots except for quackgrass; in fact, this species was the only identified grass in the entire survey. The overall abundance of dicots is not surprising as hemp is also a dicot and that makes chemical weed control against this group extremely difficult. Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album) was the most frequent weed; it was present in 72% of the surveyed plots. Interestingly, after lambsquarters, alfalfa was the most dominant weed of hemp fields with an average 5.8% mean cover of all plots.

Alfalfa is a popular crop in the area and the soil seed bank may have a significant amount of propagules which makes it a dominant and relatively frequent weed.

Figure 1 and 2. The frequency and the mean cover values of the ten most dominant and frequent weed species in hemp.

The mean coverage of hemp in the abandoned fields was 28.4% and there was approximately 40.2% bare ground. The average height of hemp was 3.83 inches (the smallest measured plant was 0.78 inches and the highest was 18.3 inches). The mean stem number was 28.4/m2 (2.55 plants/ft2). Although the investigated fields were abandoned only for one year, our results suggest that hemp could become a weedy species after its cultivation. Hemp is

not a native plant species to North America and there are reports about its weedy behavior from other parts of the world; therefore, extreme caution needs to be taken if it is to be cultivated.

weeds by 22% and by 5.2% that of natives.

(See Figure 3 on next page)

Summarizing the results of our study, we can conclude that there are numerous weed species that can interfere with hemp production In the greenhouse competition experiment, in west-central Montana. As chemical weed we found that hemp grew 34% larger in com- control is extremely difficult, if not impospetition against native plants compared to sible in hemp fields. weeds. Hemp decreased the mean biomass of C O N T I N U E D N E X T PA G E 6

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Figure 4. Greenhouse competition experiment with Figure 3. The competitive ability of hemp against weeds and native plants. weeds and natives.

Bars show the dry biomass of five weed and native species either alone or in competition with hemp.

It is important to focus on site selection and Additionally, growers need to be careful with to perform an effective pre-seed treatment. hemp production as the plant can return as a volunteer and become a weedy species on Our research also found out that optimizing subsequent crops in fallow, abandoned fields. seeding density could help to improve the And finally, hemp has a potential to enter natcompetitive ability of hemp against weeds. ural or semi-natural habitats, especially disturbed sites; therefore, extreme caution needs

(

to be applied during harvesting and transporting the crop and it seeds. In addition, the growing area and its surroundings should be frequently monitored for volunteer hemp plants, so as not to increase the soil seed bank.

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Figure 5. Field survey on an active hemp field in 2019.

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Figure 6. Field survey on a fallow hemp field in 2019 where numerous volunteer hemp seedlings emerged.

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B Y RO B L A R E W N AT I O N A L F A R M E R S U N I O N

Nearly every aspect of agriculture has been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic in one way or another. The loss of markets, lower prices, supply chain disruptions, difficulty accessing farm labor, and a lag in international trade are just a handful of the many new challenges family farmers and ranchers are now facing.

A stimulus bill will provide some assistance to affected producers, though details of how, when, and to whom funds will be allocated had not yet been released at the time of publication. Though coronavirus has captured the lion’s share of media attention, there’s always other food and farming news, including the finalization of fuel economy standards, the administration’s decision not to appeal a recent ruling that struck down certain small refinery exemptions, and progress in the federal appropriations process.

Even as food flies off grocery store shelves, commodity prices have tumbled. With fewer cars on the road and oil prices down, ethanol prices have plummeted as well. Restaurant, school, and farmers market closures have eliminated important local markets. Borders have closed and visa approvals have slowed, increasing concerns of farm labor shortages. Though international exports were expected to boost farm income this year, worldwide economic stagnation has made promised trade gains seem unlikely. All of this comes on the heels of a multi-year downturn in the farm economy, a global trade war, and increasingly extreme weather events.

National Farmers Union (NFU) has been advocating for immediate action to prepare rural communities and farm families for the impacts of the novel coronavirus.

The organization’s government relations team has been in near constant contact with legislators, the White House, and partner organizations to ensure that farmers have access to markets, qualiCARES ACT PROVIDES SUP- fied farm labor, and necessary PORT FOR FARMERS, RU- financial support, and that the RAL HOSPITALS rural health care system has the A global pandemic has upended personnel, equipment, and capital modern life as we know it. To it needs to treat an anticipated inslow its spread, millions of Amer- flux of patients. icans are staying home and most nonessential businesses have shut Many of these concerns were addown, causing a dramatic spike in dressed in a $2 trillion response, unemployment and bringing the relief, and stimulus package reeconomy to a near-standstill. No cently signed into law by Presiindustry has been spared disrup- dent Donald Trump to alleviate tion – including food and agricul- the current and potential ecoture. nomic fallout from the pandemic.

The bill, which is the most expen-

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sive in the country’s history, provides $130 billion for hospitals, $150 billion for local and state governments, direct payments to individuals, and $300 billion in financial aid for small businesses.

offer prompt financial assistance to struggling family farmers and ranchers. On the final point, he underscored the importance that aid “be targeted to farmers, not large agribusinesses,” and that it include payment limits and inThe package earmarks funding come caps. specifically for rural communities, including support for lo- “We are deeply concerned with cal hospitals, broadband access, the immense and increasing prestelehealth, distance learning, and sure that our rural health system small businesses and coopera- and economy are facing,” Larew tives. Additionally, many farmers wrote. “You must act now to adwill be eligible for assistance; the dress the looming threat of mass bill replenishes the Commodity closures and consolidation of Credit Corporation (CCC), which family farms. The ripple effects is used to stabilize, support, and of these changes would be cataprotect farm income and prices strophic to our rural communithrough initiatives like the Mar- ties.” ket Facilitation Program (MFP).

Another $9.5 billion has been set FUEL ECONOMY RULE A aside to help specialty crop grow- MISSED OPPORTUNITY ers, farmers who support local The U.S. Environmental Protecfood systems, dairy farmers, and tion Agency finalized the Safer livestock producers.

Affordable Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles Rule, which sets fuel How, when, and to whom these economy and greenhouse gas funds are distributed is largely at emissions standards for model the discretion of the U.S. Depart- year 2021-2026 passenger vehiment of Agriculture (USDA). In cles. a letter sent to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, NFU Under previous regulations, fuel President Rob Larew urged the economy and CO2 emissions agency to “swiftly and efficiently standards increased 5 percent implement assistance and distrib- each year. This rule, however, reute resources,” emphasizing that laxes the annual change to just the capacity of the rural health 1.5 percent each year. Additioncare system and the success of ally, the rule does not include recfamily farm agriculture depends ommended provisions that would on immediate and prudent action. have supported homegrown biofuels.When the rule was proposed Larew outlined his priorities for in 2018, EPA requested input on the assistance package. He called the benefits of increasing fuel on the secretary to provide nec- octane levels. boost octane and essary support to rural hospitals, increase vehicle efficiency. The ensure that rural Americans have Washington Corner can also be access to health insurance, and found at www.nfu.org/corner.

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TIPS TO KEEP YOUR MENTAL HEALTH SHARP B Y D A R L A T Y L E R - M C S H E R RY, F O U N D E R , A S K IN EARNEST MSU BILLINGS STUDENT H E A LT H S E RV I C E S D I R E C T O R

As I’m writing this from my kitchen table, I’m looking out the window and marveling at our Montana weather patterns. It was sixtyfive degrees two days ago, and this weekend Mother Nature showered us with over three inches of snow. We Montanans, especially farmers, know the unpredictable nature of spring is just one of the several things that can create stress. Stress has an immense impact on our mental health. Mental health is just as crucial to the success of your farm as is your physical health. Just like taking care of ourselves physically is important, we need to take care of ourselves mentally, too. Let’s look at a couple things we can do every day to help improve and protect our mental health.

With the snow melting, it won’t be long until you are putting in long hours seeding spring crops, working fields, spraying, gearing up for harvest, etc. Unfortunately, all too often those projects take a toll on your sleep, in terms of both quantity and quality.

1.)Get plenty of sleep. Most adults need at least seven to eight hours per night.

Teens and people into their early twen-

APRIL 2020

ties need nine or ten hours. Of course, Other strategies to improve your rest include: there are times of the year that isn’t possible, such as seeding or harvesting or be- 1.) Release stress before bed. If you have ing up all hours of the night with livestock. a hard time “shutting your mind off ” once you’re in bed, try having a notepad and pen Tips for creating a restful environment for sleep: by your bed. Briefly jot down the thoughts that are keeping you awake. The idea is • Keep your room dark. This means turn- that you are “releasing” those stresses from ing off the TV, lights, and electronics. your mind to the pad. After a good night’s • Keep your room quiet. Again, turning off sleep, you can look at them tomorrow. the TV, music, etc. Some people find white noise, such as a fan or a machine that mimics 2.)Be physically active. It doesn’t have to be the sounds of ocean waves or rainfall helpful. high intense or high impact. Walking is a ter• Use a room humidifier. Run the humidifier rific exercise, and little is needed other than all year, not just during the dry winter months. comfortable clothing and good shoes. The Research shows that people report more rest- benefits of exercise on our mental health ful sleep in an environment that is slightly are well-documented. Exercise helps burn humid Scent can help us sleep better, too. off excess stress hormones, promotes bet• Use essential oils. Studies have shown a few ter sleep, can connect us with nature, not to drops of lavender essential oil on your sheets mention the benefits for our hearts, lungs, and pillowcases can help produce a more rest- circulation, joints and our entire bodies. Acful sleep. Check with your medical provider if cumulating about an hour’s worth on most you are pregnant prior to using essential oils. days of the week is a great goal. If you • Establish a routine to prepare for sleep. can’t imagine walking that long right now, Many people have a hard time “shutting their that’s ok. Start small. Begin with something mind off ” when it’s bedtime. Try spending more manageable, such as ten minutes. The the last thirty to sixty minutes before bed benefits are so worth it. And you are too. engaging in something you find relaxing and pleasurable, such as reading a book, listen- For more information on mental health ing to or playing music, enjoying a hobby, strategies, check with your medical provider or doing some gentle stretching. The goal is and county extension office as they have a to begin to quiet the body, which will help wealth of information. Please visit www. quiet the mind, and vice versa. askinearnest.org to learn more about the issues of mental health, suicide and farming.

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COVID- 19 Update: The health and safety of the campers and staff at Montana Farmers Union Camps is MFU’s top priority. We are closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and will continue to do so over these next few months. As of right now, all of Montana Farmers Union 2020 youth camps will continue as scheduled at Arrowpeak Lodge. If the current situation does not improve by May 15, we may cancel the 2020 camp season. If that happens, or if campers choose to stay home due to health concerns, campers will receive a full refund for any registration fees.

EDUCATION

MO NTANA FAR M E R S U N I O N 2020 YOUT H C A M P S

junior 1 (ages 8–12) june 21-25

junior 2 (ages 8–12) jun 28-jul 2

senior/teen 1 (ages 13-19) july 12–17

THEME NIGHTS • mathletes vs. athletes • tacky farmer/hick day • farm animal day • banquet night (senior/teen camp only)

teen 2 (ages 12–15) july 19–24

CONTACT e-mail violet green at vgreen@montanafarmersunion.com 406.452.6406 | 800.234.4071

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2020 SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDEES!

Cory Kelly Recipient of the Montana Farmers Union Scholarship & The John Korsbeck Memorial Scholarship

Maggie Shane Recipient of the Montana Farmers Union Scholarship & the Bud Daniels Memorial Scholarship Abby Fritz (not pictured) Recipient of the Flathead County Farmers Union Scholarship.

James Van Spyk Recipient of the Cascade County Farmers Union Scholarship.

Lilly Green Recipient of the Chouteau County Farmers Union Scholarship

All scholarships are selected by the Montana Farmers Union Foundation Board. All scholarships except for the Chouteau County and Flathead County Scholarships are awarded in the amount of $1,000.

Chouteau County and Flathead County Scholarships are awarded in the amount of $500. MFU is happy to congratulate these recipients. We wish them well on their future endeavors!

Andrea Rutledge Recipient of the John Korsbeck Memorial Scholarship

Montana Farmers Union is excited to announce that Farmers Union Enterprise (FUE) and STEM FUSE will be offering educational materials at no cost through July. FUE created an educational program that is based on agriculture, food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) that gives teacher access to materials that will help educate students from K-12 grades. STEM FUSE not only offers our AFNR program for free during this time, but will also be extending lessons that include math, english, science, and history subjects. Parent, teachers, or students please reach out to our office if you are interested in our program or if you would like to know more about what is available.

Please contact us by email or cell phone: Violet Green: vgreen@montanafarmersunion.com or (406)564-6025 Vicky Reeves: vreeves@montanafarmersunion.com or (406)217-6978

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Children must be a least eight years old to attend. MFU offers 100 different educational programs at no cost. There is a list of these different programs on our website.

DAY CAMPS WITH A COUNTRY SPIN

BY VICKY JO REEVES E D U C AT I O N & P R O G R A M A S S I S TA N T

Here are some examples of the educaDepending on corona virus, MFU hopes to tional programs we offer: move forward with our Montana Farmers • My Favorite Pet – Learn how to take Union’s Summer Day Camp season which care of animals. runs June through August. Day camp hours • Worm Farming and Composting – are 9 a.m. – 3pm. Schools, community centers, Play in the dirt. parks and churches make for great day camp • Planning Your Garden – Plan a garlocations. The Camp location does not need den space by looking at soil condition to have a kitchen, but it must have restroom and lighting for optimum production. facilities. We ask that campers bring a sack • Reduce, Reuse and Recycle – How to lunch and a water bottle. Also, please make reduce waste. sure campers dress appropriately for the day’s • Read the Label – How to read the laactivities and weather. We will need some as- bel on the chemicals you use. sistance in spreading the word. If your group • Food Recovery and Second Time Dishes – is larger than 10 children we request a volun- How to stretch your grocery dollars.

• Nutritional for Livestock-What our animals teer to help with the camp. should and shouldn’t eat.

Day camps are designed for campers to pick • Farm Safety – Tips on how to prevent acup information related to agriculture, commu- cidents and respond in case of an emergency. nity and cooperatives while having fun. MFU • Renewable energy – What it is and how it organizes these programs with your assistance can save energy and money? to be grade and age appropriate.

TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR FULL DAY COOPERATIVES & RENEWABLE ENERGY CAMP 9:00 - 9:30

Check-in/registration

9:30 - 9:45 9:45- 10:50

Don’t let your children sit idle. Have them join us and stay connected with their friends this summer by attending a MFU day camp!

If you are interested in putting together a day camp please contact me at 406.452.6406 or at vreeves@montanafarmersunion.com.

TENTATIVE HALF-DAY AGENDA FOR COOPERATIVES & RENEWABLE ENERGY CAMP 9:00 - 9:30

Check-in/registration

Get to know you games

9:30 - 9:45

Get to know you games

Renewable energy & dioramas

9:450- 10:50 Renewable energy & dioramas

10:50 - 11:00 Clean-up

10:50 - 11:00 Clean-up

11:00 - Noon Lunch & group photo

11:00 - 11:45 Farm safety

Noon - 1:15 Farm safety and more photos

11:45 - Noon Clean up and first leaves

1:15 - 1:30

12:30 - 12:40 Second group check-in

Clean up and break

12:40 - 1:00 Get to know you games

1:30 - 2:00 Cooperative games

1:00 - 2:00 Cooperative games

2:00 - 2:30 Clean-up

2:00 - 2:30 Emergency readiness 2:30 - 3:00

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Clean up/End of camp

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Visit nfu.org to learn more UNITED TO GROW FAMILY AGRICULTURE

The Farmer’s Share Did you know that farmers and ranchers receive only 14.6* cents of every food dollar that consumers spend?

According to the USDA, off farm costs including marketing, processing, wholesaling, distribution and retailing account for more than 80 cents of every food dollar spent in the United States.

Bacon

$6.03 $0.64

Retail: Farmer:

$10.49 $1.90

$2.99 $0.05

Retail: Farmer:

$3.39 $1.12

1 gallon, fat free

1 lb.

$1.99 $0.49

Retail: Farmer:

$3.79 $0.11

Beer

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

6-pack cans

$4.59 $1.50

Flour

King Arthur, 5 lbs.

Retail: Farmer:

$2.29 $0.93

Retail: Farmer:

$4.39 $0.39

@NFUDC

Retail: Farmer:

Soda

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

$2.29 $0.34

$4.59 $0.70

Farmer’s share derived from USDA, NASS “Agricultural Prices,” 2019. | Prices based on December 2019 data.

Retail prices based on Safeway (SE) brand except where noted. | *Figure according to U.S. Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service

/nationalfarmersunion

1 lb.

Fresh Potatoes Russet, 5 lbs.

/nationalfarmersunion

$4.99 $0.64

2 liters

$1.49 $0.05

January 31, 2020 nfu.org/topics/blog

National Farmers Union | 20 F Street NW, Suite 300 | Washington, DC 20001 P: (202) 554-1600 | F: (202) 554-1654 | www.NFU.org | info@nfudc.org

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$10.99 $0.04

Boneless Ham

Fresh Apples 1 lb.

$3.89 $1.78

Fresh Carrots 5 lbs.

1 dozen

Milk

Lettuce

2 lbs.

Eggs

1 lb.

18 oz. box

Retail: Farmer:

Retail: Farmer:

Tomatoes

Cereal

Retail: Farmer:

Bread

1 lb.

1 lb.

Retail: Farmer:

Top Sirloin Steak

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WHAT’S YOUR NORMAL?

BY VICKY JO REEVES E D U C AT I O N A N D P R O G R A M A S S I S TA N T

I want to take this opportunity to share with you information about the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. First you need to stop, look at yourself, and listen to what your body is telling you. But first ask yourself this: Do you or an immediate family member have a history of heart disease, hypertension, and elevated cholesterol? If the answer is a yes, then it’s time to see your doctor.

When you see a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant they will let you know what your baselines or area of normal are. That would include your current heart rate, blood pressure, and maybe even a blood test. They will take into consideration what is normal for a person of your age, height and weight. While you’re there have an open and honest discussion about how you feel. For example, you could share information about a recent occasion when you were bending over to put a load of wash in the dryer and experienced feelings of fatigue and chest tightness. Your caregiver will listen and help you draw a conclusion as to what caused the symptoms. They can also identify some of the things that are out of the norm, and share with you how to treat the condition. Don’t forget there are always those cases where someone has never had any of the following signs until the onset of a heart attack. That is why you should know the following symptoms: •

• • • •

Jaw, back, neck, and chest pain. Women tend to have jaw pain with pressure in the chest and low back pain just below the ribs. This is especially true for women who are pregnant. Other signs can include the occasional pain in the neck. Men tend to present, in most occasions, with chest and left arm pain.

Sweating. Not like that of hot flashes.

Sudden onset of fatigue Shortness of breath that continues to get worse Heart burn

The bottom line is if it feels out of the normal trust your gut feeling and call 911. Even with the latest modes of treatment you need to get help on the way. Call 911 and stay on line with the operator to make sure the ambulance team can find you.

MONTANA FSA DATES AND DEADLINES

May 15 to July 15: Montana’s Primary Nesting Season. Non-Emergency Grazing (prior approval required) of CRP is now allowed Noninsured Crop Disaster Aswith a 50 percent reduction in the sistance Program (NAP) producstocking rate. ers with 2020 Perennial Forage intended for mechanical harvest June 1: Last day to apply for a or grazing are required to report 2019 crop marketing assistance their crop acreage 15 calendar loan or LDP for harvested Corn, days before the onset of harvest Dry Peas, Grain Sorghum, Lenor grazing of the specific crop tils, Mustard Seed, Rice, Safflowacreage. NAP producers are ener Seed, Chickpeas, Soybeans and couraged to report perennial forSunflower Seed. age acreage by April 15.

May 14: Last day of 2020 Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Spring Non-Emergency Grazing Period (prior approval required) May 15: Last day of CRP Grasslands Signup

July 15: 2020 Acreage Reporting Deadline for Spring Seeded Alfalfa Seed, Forage Seeding, CRP, Perennial Forage not covered under NAP, and all other crops not required to be reported by a previous reporting date. Please note that this is the final date that FSA can accept late-filed 2019 reports for these crops.

Aug. 3: Deadline to request a farm reconstitution or farm transfer for 2020.

July 16: First day of 2020 CRP Summer/Fall Non-Emergency Grazing and Harvesting Periods (prior approval required)

Aug. 31: Last day of 2020 CRP Summer/Fall Non-Emergency Harvesting Period (prior approval required)

June 15: Nomination Open for 2020 FSA County Committee Aug. 1: Last day to file nominaElections tions for 2020 FSA County Committee Elections to FSA (or postJune 30: Last day of 2020 Agri- marked) cultural Risk Coverage Price Loss Coverage Enrollment Period 14

Aug. 15: Acreage Deadline for Hemp

Reporting

Aug. 21: Last day of Soil Health and Income Protection Program (SHIPP) Pilot Signup Period

Aug. 31: All Hay Bales Must be Removed from Non-Emergency Conservation Reserve Program Acreage. For assistance, please contact your local FSA Office.

V O L U M E 2 9

PRODUCERS FACE UP-HILL BATTLE WITH COVID-19

BY JUSTIN LOCH M E M B E R S H I P D I R E C TO R

Covid-19 has dealt the U.S. an enormous blow in more ways than one. While each and every American has been affected by this virus in some way, farmers and ranchers are dealing with it on many fronts.

While many in the U.S. are trying to navigate day-to-day activity producers are dealing with many issues and uncertainty during this time. This virus has put up a steel curtain on their future as they try to look ahead. Most everything has come to a screeching halt across the country. Many of the large-scale fresh fruit and vegetable farms are in trouble as crops are ready to be picked, but a shortage of labor threatens harvest potential. Producers fear the

USCA RELEASES ESTIMATE ON ECONOMIC IMPACT OF COVID-19 TO U.S. CATTLE INDUSTRY

APRIL 2020

crops will be left in the fields to cery stores can’t keep up with derot if they can’t figure out anoth- mand for milk and cheese leaving er way to get the crops harvested. coolers in some stores somewhat empty and quantities limited.

Livestock prices have crashed while processors were making re- While access to markets is excord profits. Now a bigger prob- tremely limited producers are left lem has exploded with some of scratching their heads about what the big packers like Tyson and to do. Quite frankly there isn’t Smithfield closing plants due to any favorable answer right now workers contracting the virus. with the uncertainty about when Shutting down plants limits the things will start to open up or protein supply to the grocery move towards a return to normal. stores which will leave a big hole One thing is clear, a producer’s in the consumer’s food supply. life doesn’t shut down. There are More importantly, what are pro- still livestock to tend to and crops ducers and feedlots going to do to get in the ground. They have with their slaughter ready ani- to keep moving forward with the mals? hope that there will be brighter days ahead. Recently, Congress The dairy industry was fighting passed a bill allocating $16 billion for its life before the virus and in farm aide. This money will be has been body slammed by mar- allocated at discretion of the Secket mis-alignment; with schools retary of Agriculture. Hopefully, and restaurants being shut down the USDA will get payments out bulk deliveries have slowed dra- to producers as soon as possible matically. Tragically, while dairy to help most producers get by unproducers are dumping milk, gro- til all of this uncertainty blows

over.

the COVID-19 pandemic to three primary sectors of the cattle production chain: feedlot, backgrounding, and cow/calf.

Task Force has spent the past month diligently working with Congress and the Administration on developing temporary, shortterm relief for cattle producers experiencing losses related to the current coronavirus outbreak.

We'd like to thank these volunteer members for their time and efforts in improving the state of the U.S. cattle industry."

USCA President Brooke Miller issued the following statement: "The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the U.S. cattle industry cannot be overstated. This report highlights just how severe those losses will be. Specifically, Mr. Crosby's report breaks out the steer and heifer price foreThe United States Cattlemen's casts, differentiates between Association (USCA) has released spring and fall calves, and values its full economic impact report stocker calves by marketing date of the COVID-19 pandemic on rather than weight to account for the U.S. cattle industry, compiled the effect on operations that run

by Brett Crosby of Custom Ag grass calves and market in AuSolutions and BeefBasis.com. gust.

per-cow funding basis for cow/ calf producers of $127.08 broken out by spring and fall calving cows and accounting for heifer retention. For stockers and backgrounders, the breakout would be on a per-head basis, regardless of sale weight. The breakout between spring and summer calves can be based on sales receipts, with June 1 as the date determining marketing class. Feedlot sector payouts would then be based on actual receipts and/or feed receipts.

"All payments would be based on the inventory each operation had as of February 15, and verification could include: sales receipts; balance sheets submitted to banks; inventory appraisals by certified Using existing market data and "Further, the report offers rec- appraisers or lenders; brand infutures market data, the total ommendations for funding dis- spections; and vet records. actual and future impact is foretribution models. For cow/calf cast to exceed $14.6 billion. The producers, it suggests an average "USCA's COVID-19 Producer analysis focuses on the effects of 15

While I don’t have the answers on how to navigate these historic and trying times, I do offer a few suggestions. Lean on family, friends, faith, and Farmers Union.

Enjoy your time with family. They will be there to support you. Dig deep in your faith. The power of prayer can do so much to turn things around for us all, and help us navigate uncertainty. Farmers Union is here to help. We support you and the Ag industry. We offer education, farmer stress and mental health resources. We advocate for better markets, fair trade and a connection to other members.

Most importantly we are here to support you and will fight to help you move forward. Please if you need anything contact Montana Farmers Union or any of our staff. Like you, we hope for better days ahead and keep plowing forward to make the future better.

To view the full report go to https://mcusercontent.com/Estimating_COVID_Publish_Final. pd.

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OUR AGENTS LIVE AND WORK NEAR

OUR AGENTS LIVE AND WORK NEAR YOU. Anaconda Stefanie Thompson 563.5991 Belgrade Craig Parker 388.6774 Bigfork Janice Erickson 692.6020 Billings Jim Mathews 656.2323 Billings Steve Plaggemeyer 294.9491 Billings Judd Long 252.9391 Billings KJ Fauth 969.2282 Billings Jeanne Benson 252.9391 Bozeman Dean Derby 556.0893 Bozeman Trent Leintz 551.2163 Bozeman Art Hoffart 586.6230 Bridger Wesley Schwend 662.3930 Chester Megan Hedges 759-5150 Choteau Scott Allaire 466.5146 Circle Kaylen Lehner 485.3303 Conrad Dirk Elings 271.7047 Dillon Judy Siring 683.2365 Dillon Sara Nye 683.1250 Dutton Will Rasmussen 476.3444 Fairfield Matt Luedtke 467.3444 Froid Austin O’ Dea 766.2205 Glasgow Del Hansen 228.2284 Great Falls Eric Hinebauch 453.8413 Great Falls Aeric Reilly 570.5853 Great Falls Jeff Thill 452.7283 Hamilton Bryan Jones 363.6583 Hardin Melissa Wacker 665.1867 Havre Cindy Schubert 265.2693

Helena Todd Crum 443.4630 Kalispell Randy Bloom 257.1252 Kalispell Charles Monroe 756.7720 Laurel Lorna Olson 628.6649 Lewistown Tom McKenna 538.8736 Lewistown Raleigh Heitzman 538.8736 Libby Colleen Wood 293.6228 Livingston Daryl Hansen 222.7151 Malta Shane Anderson 654.1589 Miles City Tayler Kennedy 874.2560 Miles City Watts Agency 874.1804 Missoula Brad Bowman 721.2540 Missoula Pam Jacobsen 721.0599 Missoula Andre Marcure 543.7184 Missoula Josh Rollins 830.3073 Plains Lisa French 826.4633 Plentywood JR Johnson 765.2051 Ronan Andrew Luedtke 676.0173 Ryegate Audrey Stoican 568.2336 Shelby KW Insurance 424.8480 Shelby Russ Seubert 434.5211 Sidney Cathy Hintz 488.8326 Sunburst KW Insurance 937.6950 Terry Watts Agency 635.5782 Thompson Falls Sally Miller 827.3221 Whitefish Rial Gunlikson 862.4700 Wolf Point Jesse Fleming 653.2200