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M O N TA N A
GRASS ROOTS WHEAT TRADE WITH CANADA to be automatically designated at the lowest grade or feed grade While Montana family farms en- status. Canada claims this system joy accessing markets in Canada is to protect the quality of wheat with many of our commodities, processed into the Canadian marone problem continues to exist ket. Montana Farmers Union bewhen it comes to wheat trade. lieves this an unfair trade barrier. Producers continue to have very Canada’s VRS only allows a few limited ability to access Canadian test plots to verify data to be used wheat markets because Canada for approval. Canada controls the has restricted wheat purchases number of varieties to be tested to only the varieties approved by making it very difficult for the Canada. While there have been U.S. to register varieties in Cana number of barriers in the past, ada. the primary barrier today is the Canadian Variety Registration According to the U.S. DepartSystem (VRS). ment of Agriculture, wheat trade with Canada is so restrictive unThe restrictive policy of accept- der the VRS system that in 2017 ing only registered wheat varieties only 50,751 tons of wheat were approved by Canada is not fair. shipped from the U.S. into CanTheir market system limits all for- ada. That is less than 2% of the eign grain forcing Montana wheat of 2.8 million tons of Canadian BY KIM MANGOLD G OV E R N M E N T A F FA I R S D I R E C TO R
wheat shipped to processors and millers in the U.S.
promises for harmonization beten the two countries. To truly harmonize grain movements between the two countries we need to remove the unfair trade practice of Canadian’s restricting wheat purchases to their approved variety list.
wheat shipped to processors and millers in the U.S.Throughout trade discussions, I frequently heard discussions and promises for harmonization between the two countries. To tru
Montana Farmers Union recently contacted Montana State University about participating in meetings to discuss the process of varietal acceptance between both countries. Dr. Bajwa, MSU Vice President, has indicated that she will participate in these discussions. Since technology transfer could be a vital part of this process, Dr. Bajwa will bring in University experts. This summer, the Pacific Northwest Regional (PNWR) meeting is going to be held at Big Sky, Montana. C O N T I N U E D PA G E 6
PRIMARY DEBATES
NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE
PAID
tentatively scheduled for April 25, 2020. The democrats will debate at 7 p.m. with the republications following. May 2, 2020 is the tentative date for the congressional race. Republicans will kick off the congressional debate at 7 p.m. with the democratic debate following.
LIVINGSTON, MT PERMIT NO. 93
Candidates have beeen invited and most have confirmed their attendance. Both debates will take place at the CMR Auditorium. Montana Farmers Union will ask candidates for governor and congress to put agriculture and rural issues frontand-center when they debate in Great Falls in late April and early May. MFU is partnering with Northern Plains Resource Council, Montana Cattlemen Association, U.S. Cattlemen Association and Cowles Media Group to host a congressional primary debate and a gubernatorial primary debate in Great Falls. The gubernatorial debate is
Each party will debate for 45 minutes and moderated by David Parker, professor of political science at Montana State University. The debates will be broadcast statewide by Cowles Media and Northern Ag Network. The debates are free and open to the public. More information will be available in the next edition of Montana Grassroots.
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Watching the Kansas City Chiefs come from behind in their playoff games to win the Superbowl gives me a little hope for the family farm. What we are missing is the MVP quarterback and Hall of Fame coach to guide us down the field to success. Many in the agriculture community had hoped for a come back win with the recent announcements of the treaties. Instead it seems we have had a series of turnovers.
ECONOMIC OUTLOOK SERIES EXAMINES AGRICULTURE IN MONTANA
The first big turnover was the trade agreement made with Japan. At first glance this play looked like a winner, but it turned out to be a fumble. Because the Japanese trade agreement only begins to phase out the tariffs over several years, it leaves the USA at a competitive disadvantage with our major competitors like Australia, Brazil, Canada, etc.
discover that under NAFTA North Dakota had received approval for some of their varieties to be sold into the Canadian as food grade wheat. Digging a little deeper I found out the approval was driven by Canadian Processors and growers. They wanted the North Dakota varieties because they performed better.
The USMCA was a trick play that left us in the same place we started with one less down. As it turns out the USMCA is no different than NAFTA and leaves the family farmer in no better position than we started.
At first, I was angered by the unfairness of Canada’s ability to downgrade our wheat to feed just because it was not on their approved variety list. Sharing my frustration with Kim Mangold she suggested that maybe we could work with Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER) to allow Montana State University (MSU) to test our varieties utilizing the Canadian grading system to get them approved for sale into Canada as food grade wheat. I have reached out to MSU President Cruzado and MSU Dean of Ag Dr. Bajawa to encourage them to work with PNWER and AG Canada to develop testing protocol to get Canadian approval of our varieties.
The China Phase 1 was our hail Mary pass. Promises of doubling agriculture sales to China was going to be our winning touchdown but the ball fell to the ground with time running out. The ag commodity markets fell when the deal was signed. It has been a couple weeks since the Phase 1 announcement and the biggest news out of China is that they finished filling their 2019 wheat quota by buying a million ton of wheat from Australia, Canada and France, none from the USA. We are not done yet. We do know that our coach has been calling the wrong plays. If Like most family farmers, I am an optimist. we are going to be successful, we will have to While researching USMCA and NAFTA I take the ball into our hands and make our own found little difference between the two. I did plays to save the family farm.
by the U.S. Census and reports by the USDA. Fuller presented a wide range of data with a snap shot of the Montana agriculture economy. The study polled Montana farmers on B Y LY N D S AY B R U N O their view of the industry comparing 2018 E D I TO R and 2019. When asking farmers whether their farm operation today is better off, worse off The Bureau of Business and Economic Reor about the same compared to a year ago search, a research department within the Col54% said worse off, 42% said about the same lege of Business at the University of Montana, and 4% said better off. is hosting a series of workshops examining various factors of industry including agriculLooking ahead to the next year when farmers ture with a year-end review. were asked if they expect their operation to be better off financially, worse off, or about Kate Binzen Fuller, Assistant Professor and the same as now 52% said worse off, 10% Extension Specialist for Montana State Unisaid better off and 38% said they expect their versity, presented the findings of the 2018 finances to stay the same. Montana Agricultural Year in Review at the workshop program’s first stop in Great Falls. The study looked at the communities leading Fuller’s presentation was based on findings in value-added agriculture and identified Lewfrom a study conducted by MSU, numbers istown as the key leader followed by Havre.
Fuller discussed weather conditions such as drought and their effect on crops and beef exports ranging from 2012-2019. As reported by the USDA in 2019 the U.S. exported more beef to South Korea than Canada, Mexico and Japan. This is in comparison to 2018 when Japan purchased the most American beef. Fuller also talked about pulse production in the state which decreased in 2016, but rebounded in 2018. In regards to net farm income, research showed in 2019 net farm income was down significantly from 2012. The Bureau of Business and Economic Research will hold The 2020 Economic Outlook Seminar in several cities. For information on the workshop series visit http://www.bber. umt.edu/.
Kim mangold and laura peterson at the National Farmers Union Women’s Conference in San Diego
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!! IN THIS ISSUE
Member Recruited by
Robert & Anne Johnson, Malta Gary & Pat Lofing, Columbus Tyler & Julie Cook, Forsyth Sheena & Billy Schiffer, Rosebud Harold & Janice Wallace, Terry Paula Pederson, Circle Trevor & Sarah Bogunovich, Pompeys Pillar Laverne Ivie, Broadview Duane & Julie Wacker, Roundup Gregory Sunwall, Froid XLNT Properties LLC, Belgrade Perry Schultz, Three Forks Duane & Teresa Mahlum, Underwood MN Roger & Norma Fowler, Shelby Michale Hagen, Power Leonardi Farms Inc, Hamilton Mitch McClure, Ronan Nikki Ginoff, Stevensville Elk Creek Colony, Augusta Chad & Holly Kuntz, Custer Katon Gerky, Chinook Bernard “Chris” Christiaens, Chris & Melanie Skoyen, Chinook Paul Smith, Denver CO Ray Abry, Greenridge Biosolutions, Ronan Sam Belanger, Greenridge Biosolutions, Ronan Chad & Misty Danielson, Great Falls Mitch & Leann Haider, Chinook Seville Colony, Cut Bank Randy Barrett, Great Falls Dale & Janelle Yatsko, Stockett John & Linda Leatham, Dexter MI Travis Skoyen, Chinook Cary Kolstad, Leger Summer Barrett, Billings Roxie Davis, Drummond Carrie Eklund, Somers Sarah Harding, Whitefish Andraya Kuhr, Havre Julianna Stone, Geraldine Shanna Swanson, Lewistown Heidi Tungesvick, Winifred Shayla Verploegen, Havre Christine & Eric Mack, Grass Range Amy OHoyt, Polson Jaye Dee Han, Rudyard Emily Hess, Whitefish Whitney Pratt & Jedd Sankar-Gorton, Whitefish
Shane Anderson Shane Anderson Ron & Blayne Watts Ron & Blayne Watts Ron & Blayne Watts Kaylen Lehner K J Fauth
Bale Grazing Shows Potential for Improved Soil Health; New Cow/Calf Herd Record Book promotes COOL Page 4 INDHemp Growers Meeting Announcement Page 5
K J Fauth K J Fauth Austin O’Dea Dean Derby Craig Parker Melissa Wacker
Exciting News for Arrowpeak Camp; Shultz Elected VP of National Farmers Page 6
Korey Fauque Mathew Luedtke Bryan Jones Andrew Luedtke Andre Marcure MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office Great Falls MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office
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:
NFU Women’s Conference Offers Workshops on Advoacy and Building Community; MFU Presents Traveling Workshop Series Page 7 Trade Show Chatter; Education Update Page 8 National Farmers Union Policy Committee Prepares for NFU convention; MFU Names NFU Convention Delegates Page 9
MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office MFU Office Jan Tusick Kim Mangold Pam Gerwe Pam Gerwe
Washington Corner by President Johnson; Education News Page 10 & 11
3
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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BALE GRAZING SHOWS POTENTIAL FOR IMPROVED SOIL HEALTH BY JUSTIN LOCH M E M B E R S H I P D I R E C TO R
Recently I attended the Montana Soil Health Symposium in Billings.The event was very well attended and provided lots of great information for improving soil health in various conditions. The workshop on bale grazing stood out to me as it could potentially work well on my family’s cattle operation. Bale grazing is a great concept that has many benefits. The main goal of bale grazing is to help build and repair soil nutrients to increase and improve biomass in pastures. Bale grazing can be more cost effective than reseeding pastures or putting out fertilizer. The way bale grazing works is the producer sets round bales out on a schedule of about every three days. The rate is usually around 25 pounds of forage per animal per day along with free choice of the existing pasture they are currently on. The bales should be placed in areas where forage is thin and soil quality needs improvement. Bringing in forage from outside your operation is beneficial because it can bring added nutrients that may be missing in your pasture area. As animals eat the forage and digest it they are adding and spreading new nutrients into the soil.
the bales are high quality and the cattle seem to like the hay. In pastures where forage qual ity might be lacking cattle can actually stay on the land longer and the odds of overgrazing are less. Some producers will continue to supplement the cattle with range cake and mineral during the bale grazing process.
Also worth considering is the need to move bales around when feeding. This is to ensure the same areas aren’t continually being hitwhich can cause nutrient overload to the soil. For this reason producers need to regularly monitor their soil each season. If a producer is setting bales close to water sources they will also need to be aware of waste runoff that The main benefit of bale grazing is what it will occur. can do for your pasture. If done correctly producers will see an increase in forage, crude At the end of the day bale grazing can be a protein, and biomass. In addition, producers low cost, high benefit practice for producers While some producers may fear that cattle will should experience a more fertile and nutrient and may be worth trying. As input costs conleave a lot of wasted hay, studies have shown dense soil and greener and dense grass in win- tinue to go up producers need to finds new that there is less waste then typical daily feed- ter months that may have been lacking in the ways to save and be innovative. Why not give ing. Cattle eat on the bales, but also use the past. Bale grazing can help save on labor, fuel bale grazing a try? existing pasture forage. They will come back and equipment costs. This is due to only having to feed every 3 or 4 days rather than daily. to where the bales are set and clean it up if
NEW COW/CALF HERD RECORD BOOK PROMOTES COOL BY LAURIE LOHRER C E N T R A L M O N TA N A R E S O U R C E COUNCIL
The recently released 56 page “COOL Cow/Calf Herd Record” book features a bright red, water-resistant cover, and space for ranchers to record calving activity, herd health, bull inventory, disease treatment. A useful tool for producers who want to improve their herds and profitability, the “COOL” is pocket sized and has
space to inventory up to 400 cow/ calf pairs, complete with calendar and notes section. The books are available free in Lewistown at select farm and feed stores, the livestock auction, veterinarians and equipment companies.
beef and pork which is only “processed” in the US to be labeled “Product of USA”. Country of origin labeling lets ranchers show their product was raised in the USA and lets consumers know where their meat comes from.
The book also communicates the value of COOL/”Country of Origin Labeling for Beef and Pork” to ranchers and their suppliers, each time it’s used. Most food products in the US require country of origin labeling. Beef and pork are exempt, however a USDA loophole allows imported
Brainchild of CMRC member and Fergus County rancher Alan Shammel, the book also gives producers actionable ways to speak out in favor of COOL, with the goal of making it mandatory. “USA cattle producers work hard, using all available best management practices, to produce a 4
superior product for consumers. By the same token, they should not be blamed for inferior products imported into this country,“ said Shammel. “COOL would allow consumers to discover where their beef and pork come from, something that’s becoming more and more important to all of us”. The COOL Cow Calf Herd Record Book was produced by Central Montana Resource Council and sponsored by Montana Farmers Union, Montana Cattlemen’s Association and Northern Plains Resource Council.
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EXCITING CHANGES FOR ARROWPEAK SUMMER CAMP BY VIOLET GREEN E D U C AT I O N C O O R D I N AT O R
There is no place like summer camp! Montana Farmers Union is excited for the 2020 summer camp program, which is right around the corner. As MFU is preparing for this year’s camp we have some extremely great news we would like to share with all of our members. First, I am happy to announce the newly remodeled kitchen. MFU started remodeling the kitchen in the fall of 2019 and will finish the final touches this spring. With this great update our cooks will be able to function better! We’ll be able to have actual dishes, instead of those paper plates, bring back KP duties, and have way more storage!
model by forming more co-ops during camp, learning about agriculture from professionals in different areas of agriculture, fun new outdoor games and new outreach activities. Other exciting news includes a possible start of new trail construction at the end of July. We are sad it won’t be done until after this year’s camp, but looking forward to the future of hiking. We are also excited about the addition of adding new camp SWAG to our co-op store in addition to the usual items of snacks and drinks. The store will include clothing, water bottles, mugs and more for purchase.
IO AT
Montana Farmers Union plans to pursue this issue until we have in place a procedure to approve Montana wheat varieties for sale into Canada as food grade.
SHULTZ ELECTED VP OF NATIONAL FARMERS
SL AT
ER
Montana wheat is well known around the world for producing the highest quality grains. Our varietal research is beyond reproach. Having worked with wheat markets for 15 years, I can tell you that our foreign buyers believe in our research, our production methods and our ability to produce the highest quality milling wheat.
GI N
CO
IO
OP
Montana has an opportunity to meet with our neighboring Provinces to address this trade barrier. Montana Farmers Union believes limiting wheat from Montana because of the quality of our varieties is foolhardy.
LE
N
Arrowpeak Summer Camp is located in the Other things campers can look forward to Highwood Mountains. The program is open is a camp full of fun and new activities.This to youth ages 8-18. Registration opens April year camp will focus more on the cooperative 14 at montanafarmersunion.com.
W H E AT T R A D E C O N T I N U E D
EDUCATION
M ON TAN A F A R ME R S U N I O N 2020 Y O U T H C A MP S
At the National Farmers Annual Convention members reelected President Paul Olson( far right) and MFU member Bruce Shultz(center) as vice president.
Member Bruce Shultz of Raynesford was elected Vice President of National Farmers at the organization’s annual convention in Minnesota. According to National Farmers Shultz said he wants to see the organization move into new geographic regions. National Farmers operates in the Northeast, Midwest, the Plains and California. The organization assists grain and cattle producers with marketing and risk management and has served American producers since 1955. Visit nationalfarmers.com for more.
REGISTRATION OPENS APRIL 14
www.montanafarmersunion.com/arrowpeak-camp/
junior 1 june 21-25 (ages 8–11)
junior 2 (ages 8–11) jun 28-jul 2
senior/teen 1 (ages 13-19) july 12–17
teen 2 july 19–24 (ages 12–15)
THEME • mathletes vs. athletes • tacky farmer/hick day NIGHTS • farm animal day • banquet night (senior/teen camp only)
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NFU WOMEN’S CONFERENCE OFFERS WORKSHOPS ON ADVOACY AND BUILDING COMMUNITY BY LAURA PETERSON
I joined Kim Mangold in representing Montana at the National Farmers Union Women’s Conference on January 19 – 21 in San Diego, California. The conference featured guest speakers and sessions on cooperatives, on-farm legal compliance, business structures, self-care, politics, and Ag credit. The keynote presentations were delivered by the Secretary of the Oregon Department of Agriculture Alexis Taylor and Colorado’s Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenburg. This event provided an opportunity to connect with like-minded women from across the country and to grow our advocacy skills and knowledge of the industry. One key takeaway came from the Women Food & Ag Network on effective messaging and building strength through community power. Kim Mangold and Laura Peterson at the National Farmers Union Women’s Conference in San Diego
MFU PRESENTS THE TRAVELING WORKSHOP SERIES FOCUSING ON HEALTHY COMMUNITIES Montana Farmers Union is pleased to offer the traveling workshop series Cultivating Healthy Communities this spring and again this summer. The series will focus on farm stress management and the farm economy. In the first April series, Dr. Randall Fortenbery with Washington State University will present on farm economics. Darla Tyler-McSherry with MSU Billings will present on stress management and mental health for both April dates. Below is a list of locations and dates for the series:
April 6-8:
• 4/6 Lewistown @ 6:00pm – Central Feed Grilling at Big Spring Brewery • 4/7- Fairfield @ 7:00am –Community Center • 4/7 -Havre @ 6:00pm – location TBD • 4/8- Shelby @ 7:00am –Community Center
April 20-23:
• • • •
Sidney @ 6:00pm –Location TBD Glendive @ 7:00am-Location TBD Miles City @ 6:00pm – Location TBD Billings – time and location TBD
The workshops are free and open to the public. To locate a workshop near you, and to register online go to montanafarmersunion.com. To register by phone call 1-800-234-4071. 7
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TRADE SHOW TALK
the hard part is finding processors and hemp companies that are standing behind contracts. WITH JUSTIN LOCH Montana has quickly risen to the biggest hemp Tradeshows are a big part of what MFU does growing state in the US, but many hemp pro throughout the year. I love being a part of ducers haven’t been paid. Hopefully, hemp in tradeshows, because when I visit with at- Montana will evolve. Hemp companies need tendees, it’s not all business. As a small town to help producers by honoring contracts and farm kid, one of the highlights is talking high school sports. Not only do we discuss the current season, but years past and relive the glory days. The economy is a main source of conversation in agriculture. Producers are trying to do more with less to stay afloat. While it’s nice to come to a farm show or tradeshow to meet friends and visit with Ag businesses, many producers have hidden stress and anxiety. They may not be able to afford the new equipment or technology that could help improve their operation. They may have to come face to face with the business they owe money to because last season didn’t cash flow like expected. But at the end of the day, there are many in the same boat walking the isles of each tradeshow MFU attends.MFU understands the stress producers are up against and face. We want each producer to know we are here to help and understand. Whether you are a member or not, we are planning a two-week roadshow in April and a one in August to service Montana to help producers gain knowledge and resources associated with Cultivating Healthy Communities. Look out for upcoming dates and locations or contact our office. Not everyone that attends a farm show or tradeshow is a producer. But if you eat, you are all part of the agriculture system. MFU provides education at all tradeshows as it relates to agriculture, youth education and consumer education. One piece of information that connects consumers to producers is the regularly updated “Farmers Share of the Retail Food Dollar” put out by National Farmers Union. This piece gives consumers an idea of how little compensation the producer actually gets. The producer receives just 14 cents of each dollar spent on food. Tradeshows are a great way for the general public to come and ask questions about how agriculture fits into their life.
providing good quality seed. Markets and processing need to improve. Whether you are a member of MFU or not, please stop by and visit the next time you are at a farm show or tradeshow. We would love to visit with you.
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
Retail: Farmer:
$6.03 $0.64
Retail: Farmer:
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:
Retail: Farmer:
$3.79 $0.11
Beer
Retail: Farmer:
Retail: Farmer:
6-pack cans
$4.59 $1.50
Flour
King Arthur, 5 lbs.
$2.29 $0.93
Retail: Farmer:
$4.39 $0.39
@NFUDC
Retail: Farmer:
Retail: Farmer:
Retail: Farmer:
$2.29 $0.34
$4.59 $0.70
/nationalfarmersunion
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$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
Producers and consumers also want to know if there is a future in industrial hemp. So far,
Retail: Farmer:
Soda
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.
$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:
Bread
Tomatoes
Cereal
Retail: Farmer:
Top Sirloin Steak 1 lb.
1 lb.
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NATIONAL POLICY COMMITTEE PREPARES FOR NFU CONVENTION BY SARAH RACHOR
I was lucky enough to be chosen to represent Montana on the national policy committee this spring. After being on the state policy committee last year, I realized that I really enjoy working on our organization's policies. This is not a responsibility I have taken lightly, especially being from Eastern Montana and farming a different variety of crops than many other areas of our state. I really wanted to make sure I was representing all types of agriculture in our vast and diverse state. Montana is one of the states that doesn't always get a representative on this committee, so it is a good opportunity to see where our national policy and state policy can align. Our national policy committee was the best group of people you could hope to work with. We had a diverse group from around the country, with all sorts of different styles of agriculture, age ranges, women, men, and a vast array of experiences from Montana, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Illinois, and North Dakota. Throughout the week, we had our fearless NFU staff members with us, helping us find answers to questions that arose as we talked our way through the policy book. We had visitors throughout the week, including staffers from both the house and senate ag committees, as well as representatives from the ag industry. As a group, we worked together really well toward a common goal of getting some updates to the policy book, especially in key areas where we had some expertise at the table. There were updates to conservation and co-ops as well as additions regarding industrial hemp. Since this budding industry was a mere mention, we felt that it ne-
National Farmers Union Policy Committee meets in Washington D.C.; photo courtesy of national farmers union
MFU SENDS DELEGATES AND STAFF TO NATIONAL FARMERS UNION ANNUAL CONVENTION
eded to be a more prominent addition in order to support this emerging crop. The policy book guides the ideals of our organization and gives our staff direction on specific issues our members find important.It may not be the most exciting reading for everyone, but I encourage our members to review it. The national policy book is located at https://nfu.org/policy/ and you as members have an opportunity every year to make changes to reflect our ever changing industry, at both a state and national level. You can send changes at any time for the committee to review but they must be presented to the committee ahead of time to be included. The policy committee will also hear changes at National Convention in Savannah, GA on Saturday, February 29th and Sunday, March 1st.
Eleven MFU members will represent Montana as delegates at the 118th National Farmers Union Convention in Savannah, GA. Delegates to the convention are responsible for reviewing the national organization’s policies, which provide direction for NFU decision-making and policy priorities throughout the year. The following members and staff will attend the convention:
Delegates:
Staff:
Jeri Copenhaver, Helena Tyce Erickson, Dutton Laura Garber, Hamilton Lilly Green, Great Falls Kirby Hancock, Bozeman Cory Kelly, Chester Paul Neubauer, Havre Maggie Shane, Floweree Walter Schweitzer, Geyser Will Downs, Molt Jan Tusick, Polson
Lyndsay Bruno, Great Falls Violet Green, Great Falls Justin Loch, Great Falls Kim Mangold, Helena
NFU Policy Committee Sarah Rachor, Sidney
FUE Couple
Laura Garber & Henry Wuensche, Hamilton
Member: Erik Somerfeld, Power Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for live convention updates! 9
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fa, hay, distillers grain, infant formula, and pet food. Additionally, the country will accelerate its approval of agricultural biotechnology traits, which currently takes between 5 to 7 years. Under new regulations, the process will be shortened to about 2 years.
B Y RO G E R J O H N S O N N AT I O N A L F A R M E R S U N I O N
Less than a month into the new decade and already a lot has happened in the agriculture world. The U.S. and China signed a trade agreement, ending a two-year-long trade war. But that wasn’t even the only big trade deal to be wrapped up in January – Congress also passed the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which will replace NAFTA. If that weren’t enough, USDA has introduced several new rules, including one that would more clearly define anticompetitive business practices in the meatpacking and processing industries as well as a rule that would move forward with changes to conservation programs prescribed by the farm bill. FIRST PHASE OF U.S.-CHINA TRADE DEAL FINALIZED In an effort to ease the tensions of a twoyear-long trade war, President Donald Trump and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He signed the first phase of a trade agreement between their respective countries. According to text made available after the signing, China will increase its purchases of American goods and services by at least $200 billion over the next two years. This includes $32 billion worth of agricultural products over an established 2017 baseline of $24 billion, bringing the annual average to roughly $40 billion. China will make a number of changes to facilitate these purchases. It has removed barriers that have previously hindered the importation of American products like beef, pork, poultry, seafood, dairy, rice, potatoes, blueberries, barley, avocados, alfal-
President Trump purportedly instigated this trade war to address China's unfair trade practices, including currency manipulation and intellectual property theft. The deal includes some minor changes on both issues; China has agreed to strengthen legal protections for patents, trademarks, and copyrights as well as comply with preexisting intellectual property regulations and strengthen. Similarly, China has promised to uphold previously established currency commitments, refraining from "competitive devaluations and the targeting of exchange rates for competitive purposes." The deal does not address government subsidies given to state-owned entities, though it may be included in an anticipated second phase deal.
China, and we need reliable and robust agricultural export markets." USDA RELEASES NEW LIVESTOCK COMPETITION RULE In response to anticompetitive and abusive business practices from the increasingly consolidated meatpacking and processing industries, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a proposed rule that would more clearly define when a company has shown “undue or unreasonable preferences and advantages” for one farmer over another. The rule outlines four criteria for determining when an action has shown undue preference. An action may be permissible if it can be justified on the basis of cost savings, if it can be justified on the basis of meeting the terms or prices offered by a competitor, or if it can be justified as a “reasonable business decision that would be customary in the industry.” Though National Farmers Union (NFU) is encouraged by the administration’s efforts to address this issue, the organization is concerned about the final criterion. Lax antitrust enforcement over the past several decades has enabled the poultry and livestock industries to engage in manipulative and discriminatory practices, making those practices customary. As a result, the rule could strengthen the status quo, leaving farmers with little recourse when confronting unfair but typical treatment. It is unclear if the rule’s other provisions will provide needed protections to farmers.
Even if the rule does not enable bad behavior as feared, it does not go nearly far enough to protect farmers from the many other difficulNational Farmers Union (NFU) was cautious- ties they have been suffering at the hands of ly optimistic about the agreement, though powerful corporations. “In order to provide maintained some reservations about its long- farmers with the protections they need and term implications. "It is a good sign that our deserve,” said NFU President Roger Johnson, two countries appear to have found common “we strongly urge USDA to strengthen its ground," said NFU President Roger Johnson. definition of ‘undue or unreasonable prefer"But this deal must deliver more than vague, ence’ as well as introduce additional rules to unenforceable, short-term commitments - we ensure fair treatment and competition in the need real and lasting behavioral change from livestock sector.”
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NFU URGES STRENGTHENING OF CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM As the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) works towards 2018 Farm Bill implementation, the agency introduced the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) interim rule, which outlines how it plans to make changes to the program prescribed by the 2018 Farm Bill.
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would introduce a new supplemental payment for advanced grazing management as well as one-time payment for developing a comprehensive conservation plan. Finally, it would provide specific support for organic and transitioning to organic production activities.
efits. Johnson also advocated that payments only be made to those actively farming, suggesting that USDA prohibit payments to cashrent landlords. Finally, he requested that soil health be given greater consideration within the program, particularly given its importance to climate change mitigation and adaptation, water and air quality, and crop yields.
National Farmers Union (NFU) opposes the USDA's proposed increase in payment limits, as it would benefit the largest operations at The Washington Corner can also be found at the expense of smaller farms. In comments, www.nfu.org/corner. CSP, the largest work lands conservation pro- NFU President Roger Johnson outlined his gram, provides financial and technical assis- concern with the provision and made other tance for on-farm conservation efforts. The recommendations to improve CSP. More sperule would make a handful of changes to the cifically, he urged USDA not to penalize longprogram. For one, it would increase payment term stewardship by prioritizing first-time rates for adoption of cover crop rotations applicants; instead, applications should be from $200,000 to $400,000. Additionally, it ranked based on overall environmental ben-
EDUCATION NEWS 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
COLD CAMP CHALLENGE Montana Farmers Union’s Educational Program Assistant here and I would like to share with you our newest program Cold Camp Challenge. This program is designed to share with your student’s fun and innovated ways to learn about things that are related to farming. We are prepared to come to your schools free of charge and set up our programs and lessons in your gym, cafeteria, or library during the recess times that your students cannot go out because it is too cold. All I will require is for a place to set up; some assistance, a head count and a one or two day notice to make sure we are available. Some of our programs include, but are not limited to: Bees Facts and Wax, Team work and the Helium Hula Hoop, Taste it Don’t Waste.
Summer Day Camps Oh, and don’t forget our Summer Day Camp program instructions again are free as well! I have already started booking our summer day camps which will run from the week of June 15th through August 14th. I will need is a place to set up, one or two volunteers from your team and some help spreading the word. As for the students, they will need to bring a sack lunch, and appropriate clothing.
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