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M O N TA N A
GRASS ROOTS F E E D I N G T H E F U T U R E T H R O U G H F A R M E R S U N I O N E D U C AT I O N A P U B L I C AT I O N B Y M O N TA N A F A R M E R S U N I O N
IN THIS EDITION:
PAID
GREAT FALLS, MT PERMIT NO. 93
NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE
Montana delegation: back row: Chris Christiaens, Alan Merrill, Justin Loch,Walter Schweitzer, Ben Peterson,William Downs, Colter DeVries; Front Row: Barry Francis, Cindy Palmer, Sarah Rachor,Wendy Palmer, Bruce Shultz
MFU MEMBERS HEAD TO THE CAPITOL FOR THE THE NATIONAL FARMERS UNION FLY-IN
The primary topics of concern for all the states delegations were to pass a strong Farm Bill, trade concerns, and the renewable fuel standard (RFS). Those of us from Montana modified those topics to be more specific to Montana and added BY BEN PETERSON M F U B OA R D O F D I R E C TO R a couple more state specific concerns; rural broadband, rural healthSeptember on Capitol Hill means care, CSKT Water Compact, Indusagriculture shows its face en masse. trial Hemp, and pre-existing health Roughly 350 members of Farmers conditions. We carried our concerns Union from all over the nation con- and personal stories to not just our verged on our federal government. I own states congressman and senawas one of the members represent- tors, but representatives from other ing Montana. This was not my first states as well. time inside the Beltway, my fourth actually. I knew what we were PAGE 7 trying We started with a trip to the USDA to accomplish the goals I wantMFUand Collaborates on building for a briefing from National ed to achieve. Food Safety Program Farmers Union on our primary topics, as well a concise course on “Lo-
bbying 101.” The USDA added to our morning by giving us updates on their activities and latest completed agricultural statistics. Secretary Sonny Perdue was even able to address us in regards to the Farm Bill conference and the economy. “Farmers want to help those who help themselves,” said Perdue. “I hear a lot about sustainability in agriculture – and there’s nothing more sustainable than profitability.” Other officers representing the USDA addressed Farmers Union delegates including Gregg Doud. Gregg Doud is Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the office of the U.S. Trade Representative. C O N T I N U E D PA G E 8
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2018 MONTANA FARMERS UNION ANNUAL CONVENTION AGENDA Friday, October 26, 2018 9:00 – 11::00 Low-Stress Cattle Handling led by Curt Pate: Montana ExpoPark Livstock Pavillion 10:00 BREAK – TRADE SHOW OPENS 10:30 – Noon Montana Farmers Union Insurance Meeting
6:00 - 7:00 Reception sponsored by Farmers Union Insurance 7:00 – 8:30
Entertainment: Lyndy Phillips
Saturday, October 27, 2018 7:30 – 8:30 am
FUE Leadership Breakfast: Walter Schweitzer & Cindy Palmer
Noon – 1:20 pm
Opening luncheon Keynote: Keith Horton, Cargill
1:30 – 3:30
General Session: Welcome, audit report, FUI Report; Nominations; Bylaws & Policy
8:40 – 10:00 General Session: (Voting 8:40 -10:30) Credentials, Resolutions, ByLaws
3:30 - 4:00
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10:00 - 10:30
4:00 - 5:00 Concurrent Workshops: 1.) Promoting Awareness of Best Forage- management practices:Dr. Emily Mec cage, Montana State University 2.) NFU Food Safety Collaborative: Jan Tusick, LCCD; Andrea Sarchet, MDOA Food Safety Coordinator & David Wise, Farm Food Safety Consultant
10:30 – 11:00
- BREAK
NFU Update: Matt Perdue
11:00 – Noon Industrial Hemp in Montana: Kirby Hancock; Colby Johnson & Laura Garber Noon - 1:30 Youth Luncheon; keynote: Riley Slivka, youth awards Agenda continued page 4 2
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IN THIS ISSUE
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!! Member
Perry Dolphay, Whitewater Cody & Michelle Math, Whitewater Ron & Kathryn Hagen, Hudson WI Patty Glen, Billings Eva Harris, Billings Victoria Rusnak, Livingston Gerald & Carol Nash, Bridger Charles Strobbe, Red Lodge Kavon Farms Inc., Westby Shane & Theresa Ward, Edgar J Patrick Johnson, Loomis CA Raymond & Vivian Johnson, Helena Richard Thomas Moore, Choteau Jeff Rumpel, Lincoln Lloyd & Virginia Bache, Plains Orville & Lynn Verlanic, Thompson Falls James & Elizabeth Irish, Hysham Cory & Saundra Strizich, Great Falls Jordan & Samantha Garcia, Fort Benton Kathy Nyman, Great Falls
MONTANA FARMERS UNION
Message from the President, Alan Merrill; Page 4
Recruited by Shane Anderson Shane Anderson Ron Watts James Mathews K J Fauth Daryl Hansen Wes Schwend Wes Schwend J R Johnson Melissa Wacker Aeric Reilly Todd Crum Mathew Luedtke Mathew Luedtke Sally Miller Sally Miller Andre Marcure MFU Lodge MFU Lodge MFU Lodge
Registration for 2018 MFU Convention Page 5
PHONE: (406) 452-6406 1-800-234-4071 FAX: (406) 727-8216 mfu@montanafarmersunion.com www.montanafarmersunion.com Board of Directors:
Public Comment Sought on Bear Management Plan, By Chris Christiaens; MFU Joins NFU in Fight to Prevent Mega Mergers Page 6 MFU Partners on Food Safety Collaborative, By Jan Tusick Page 7 NFU Fly-in, By Ben Peterson Page 8 Farm to School Summit, By Violet Green Page 9 Washington Corner, By Roger Johnson Page 10
2018 MONTANA FARMERS UNION ANNUAL CONVENTION AGENDA CONTINUED 1:30 -3:15 USCA Update: Jess Peterson Montana Department of Agriculture Mediation Program: Jim Auer 3:15 - 3:30
PO BOX 2447 300 RIVER DRIVE NORTH GREAT FALLS MT 59403
Candidates Run or District 1 Board Position Page 11 MFU Works with USCA on Important Ag Issues Page 12
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3:30 - 4:30 Legacy & Estate Planning: One Montana & partners 4:30 - 5:00 A look at the Cultivating Connections Internship Program: Laura Garber, program participants 5:00 Convention Concludes. See you next year!
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Message from the Montana Delegation Page 14 Preview of the 2019 Women’s Conference Page 15
Alan Merrill, President Rollie Schlepp, Vice President, Conrad Erik Somerfeld, District 2, Power Jeff Bangs, At-Large Director District 1& 2, Inverness Brett Dailey, District 4, Jordan William Downs, District 5, Molt Ben Peterson, At-Large director, Judith Gap Kelly Rutledge, District 1, Big Sandy Sig Rudie, Fairview, At-Large director Paul Kanning, Distric 5, Flaxville Jan Tusick, District 6, Ronan State Office Staff: Jan Johnson, Office Mgr., Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer Lyndsay Bruno, Communications Director Chris Christiaens, Legislative & Project Specialist Justin Loch, Membership Director Dave Snuggs, Facility Director Violet Green, Education Coordinator Maggie Shane, Continuing Education Coordinator Copyright © Montana Farmers Union, 2018 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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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
reading this as I told all of the congressional people we met with, we are not here to whine and have people feel sorry for us, but we are dead serious about people losing their multigeneration farms and ranches if we don’t get a Farm Bill. Dreams of living on a farm and producing good, safe food and raising a family with values of the great farm life will end. I am not being negative, but it is now becoming a reality. It’s hard for me to write like this, but this is a harsh reminder of what we went through in the 80’s. True, we don’t have the high interest rates, but commodity prices are in the tank.
What we need for the survival of family farming as we know it today is leadership that cares about agriculture and family farms. We need people that put politics aside and actually are concerned about agriculture and not the office they hold. Senator Tester and Senator These are desperate times. The Montana Daines did a great job of working together to Farmers Union Fly-in was a big success, in my make a good Farm Bill in the Senate. Please opinion. For the majority of the senate and write your legislators and tell them how imthe house offices we visited about agriculture portant it is to understand all the issues conissues all listened with great concern. The cerning the 2018 Farm Bill and the effects of progression of the 2018 Farm Bill was our the current trade war. main priority. Some responded with a positive expecting the farm bill to be passed on time, while others not knowing what to expect. We as a Montana group expressed our concern that not only farmers need a Farm Bill, but also the overall farm economy will benefit Congressman Greg Gianforte: from one. Rural Montana will be affected with 1419 Longworth HOB the lack of a Farm Bill. All agricultural busiWashington, DC 20515 nesses will feel the pain of the lack of a Farm Bill. What seems to be the sticking point on Phone: (202) 225-3211 the farm bill is SNAP. Some legislators insist that if someone isn’t working they shouldn’t Senator Steve Daines: get food stamps. Also to note are the effects Washington, D.C. of the trade war including tariffs that will in- 320 Hart Senate Office Building crease costs while low commodity prices make Washington, D.C. 20510 it impossible stay in business.
p: (202) 224-2651
I met people from other states saying a Farm Bill is crucial for their 2019 operating loan. The banking industry needs a new Farm Bill. They want some type of security net by years end. The change in farm country is here now and it’s crucial we have some type of security for the new farmers in transition who are taking over the farm operation. For those
Senator Jon Tester: 724 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510-2604 202-224-2644
MSU BEGINS NEW SEMINAR SERIES IN AGRICULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCE TOPICS B Y M S U N E W S S E RV I C E
A philanthropic foundation dedicated to agricultural research and educational programs has funded a new academic seminar series at Montana State University. The Bair Ranch Foundation Seminar Series, housed in the Department of Animal and Range Sciences, part of MSU’s College of Agriculture, will bring nationally renowned experts in agricultural and natural resources to MSU and the Bozeman community to share their expertise. The series begins this 2018-2019 academic year, and will include experts on topics related to agricultural policy, wildlife, livestock genetics and the United States beef industry.
The schedule is as follows: • Sept. 19: Vince Smith, professor in the
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Department of Agricultural Economics and Economics, will present a research seminar at noon. His seminar is titled “Food Aid Cargo Preference: Costs, Benefits and Implications for U.S. Humanitarian Aid Efforts.” Oct. 3: Kevin Ellison, grasslands ecologist at the World Wildlife Fund, will present a research seminar at noon. His seminar is titled “Landscape Scale Interactions between Birds and Agriculture.” Oct. 17: Amilton de Mello, meat science and food safety program leader at the University of Nevada, Reno, will present a research seminar at noon titled “Bacteriophage Applications in the Meat Industry.” Oct. 31: Matthew Cronin, scientist with Northwest Biology Company, will present a research seminar at noon, “Population Genetics of Wildlife and Livestock.” Nov. 14: Matthew Spangler, professor and beef genetics specialist at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, will present a research seminar at noon, “Past, Current and Future Approaches to Genomic Selection.” At 6 p.m., Spangler will deliver a community talk, “Genetic Selection of Livestock: Why it Matters to You.”
Contact Carl Yeoman at carl.yeoman@montana.edu or 406-994-7440 for more information or visit montana.edu/news. 4
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REGISTRATION FOR THE 103RD ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MONTANA FARMERS UNION “MOVING AGRICULTURE FORWARD” HOLIDAY INN - GREAT FALLS OCTOBER 26-27, 2018 NAME_____________________________________________ SPOUSE___________________________________________
CHECK IF APPLICABLE:
YOUTH (NAMES & AGES):
VISITOR
MEMBER ________ ________
_______________ ______________ ______________ ADDRESS__________________________________________ CITY__________________________STATE______ ZIP_____ REGISTRATION FEE INCLUDES ALL MEALS ON PROGRAM, ALL BREAKS,THE MFU INSURANCE RECEPTION AND ENTERTAINMENT. PRE-REGISTRATION BY OCTOBER 19 COST X #REGISTERING = PER ADULT
TOTAL
$50.00 X _____________ _________
PER YOUTH(12 YRS & UNDER) $25.00 X _____________ + _________ TOTAL REGISTRATION _________ REGISTRATION AFTER OCTOBER 19 COST X #REGISTERING =
TOTAL
PER ADULT
__________
$75.00 X ___________
PER YOUTH (12 YRS & UNDER) $30.00 X ___________ + __________ TOTAL REGISTRATION __________ DAILY REGISTRATION WILL BE $20.00. MEAL TICKETS SOLD SEPARATELY. MAIL THIS FORM IN WITH YOUR PAYMENT TO THE MFU OFFICE, PO BOX 2447, GREAT FALLS MT 59403 OR REGISTER ONLINE AT MONTANAFARMERSUNION.COM. GROUP RATES ARE AVAILABLE AT THE HOLIDAY INN GREAT FALLS. CONTACT THE HOTEL TO MAKE A RESERVATION. 5
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PUBLIC COMMENT OPEN ON GRIZZLY MANAGEMENT PLANS
BY CHRIS CHRISTIAENS P R O J E C T & L E G I S L AT I V E SPECIALIST
I have been hearing from members living in the northwestern and north central part of the state over the past couple of days that we should talk about the topic of grizzlies and the public interactions with them both in rural Montana, but also in towns within this area. There are hearings sponsored by the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks being held in the communities of Great Falls, Conrad, Missoula and Kalispell.
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FWP would maintain a grizzly population that include female sows and offspring in what will be called a Primary Conservation Area. The Primary Conservation Area is broken up into four management areas within the ecosystem mentioned in the areas situated within the areas of public meetings. The area known as the PCA is the current core bear recovery area and is made up of land, 85% which is considered public. There will be three zones in this area of which a zone is a buffer around the Primary Conservation Area. Zone 2 is meant to provide the ability for the grizzly bear to move between the Northern Continental Divide System and the ecosystems of Bitterroot, Cabinet-Yaak and the Great Yellowstone. The 3rd zone is the one I am most familiar with as it includes the land east of the Rocky Mountains and west and north of Great Falls. A number of folks are concerned as it has become common to have one or more grizzlies in or around homes in this area. The animals found in this zone will be managed by conflict response, but not captured or removed because of being in this zone as purposed. If you wonder what this Northern Continental Divide System covers it includes, Glacier National Park, parts of the Flathead and Blackfeet Indian Reservations, five wilderness areas, four national forests, the BLM as well as private and state lands. If interested citizens were unable to attend any of the briefings, public comments are accepted by FWP about the proposed rules through October 26th. Before the rules go into effect you have an opportunity to participate and share your views.
The reason for hearing from the public is that it is expected that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has suggested a proposal that will remove the label of threatened species for the MFU JOINS NFU TO grizzlies living within the Northern ContinenADVOCATE AGAINST tal Divide Ecosystem which encompasses the communities where meetings are being held. MEGA MERGERS At the current time there are over 1,000 grizzlies living in this area and Montana considers In September U.S. Representative Mark Pocan the population recovered, as do the popula- (WI-02) introduced The Booker-Pocan Food and Agribusiness Merger Moratium and Antition I have talked with. trust Review Act of 2018 (S.3404/H.R. 6800). Plans are being put together to assure there The legislation that would impose a temporary are safeguards in place to assure the state will moratorium on mergers between large farm, not be threatened with the grizzly becom- food and energy companies and establishes a ing endangered again. The State of Montana commission to strengthen antitrust enforcethrough the FWP has asked for input from ment.Montana Farmers Union has joined Nafolks living within the areas and sharing the tional Farmers Union and 19 Farmers Union plans. A rule has been proposed whereby the states to endorse the legislation.
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“Mega mergers are a contributing factor in the decline of farm income impacting farmers, ranchers and rural communities,” said Montana Farmers Union President Alan Merrill. “We endorse the Food and Agribusiness Merger Moratorium and Antitrust Review Act because of the potential to provide economic security for producers.” According to NFU the Booker-Pocan Food and Agribusiness Merger Moratium and Antitrust Review Act would offer a much needed strategic pause in food and agribusiness merger-mania in order to assess the impact corporate consolidation has on farmers, workers, consumers and communities and recommend improvements to antitrust enforcement. • Few firms dominate farm business landscape. The top four firms control 86% of corn processing, 85% of cattle slaughter, 71% of pork packing and 79% of soybean crushing. • Independent farm incomes harmed by growing consolidation. Farmers now only receive about 14 cents for every dollar spent at the grocery store. • Corporate domination of farming through unfair contracts. Since 2008, the annual increase in real prices have jumped nearly three times faster than typical earnings. At the same time, merger-mania has left fewer firms in control of more supermarket shelves. • Consolidation across the food chain is harming workers and exacerbating income inequality. Larger food and agribusiness companies can extract economic value from the food system by pushing down on wages, benefits and working conditions • Food and agribusiness consolidation erodes rural economic vitality. The loss of this local economic activity ripples across communities, eroding the stability and sustainability of religious congregations, schools, hospitals and other community organizations. This bill is the companion legislation to a bill introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) The bill has 5 original co-sponsors in the House. National Farmers Union does not expect action on S.3404/H.R. 6800 this calendar year. Source: National Farmers Union
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MFU PARTNERS ON FOOD SAFETY COLLABORATIVE BY JAN TUSICK LAKE COUNTY COMMUNITY D E V E L O P M E N T C O R P O R AT I O N
Recently there seems to be more headlines with a story about a food borne illness outbreak and how it was traced back to a farm. This often leaves farmers wondering how they can address food safety on their farms. In response Montana Farmers Union wants to help bridge the gap between producers and the food safety regulatory world. Currently, MFU is a collaborative partner in the National Farmers Union Local Food Safety Collaborative. Through a partnership with Lake County Community Development Corporation (LCCDC) MFU is part of a national network of Farmer Union states, who through the collaborative, are providing resources and education to small growers and processors to meet the requirement of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). In 2011 FSMA was signed into law by the U.S. Congress. The law authorized the FDA to take preventative measures to ensure the U.S. food supply is safety shifting away form a reactive approach of responding to contamination to a preventative approach of minimizing or preventing hazards. There are several major rules in relation to FSMA that deal with all aspects of the food supply chain, but the two that are most applicable to small producers and processors are: The Produce Safety Rule and the Preventative Controls for Human Food. Montana Farmers Union, Lake County Community Development Corp. and the Montana Department of Agriculture are working with
Montana farmers to increase understanding of the two rules and provide resources for on farm food safety planning. The Montana Department of Agriculture is delivering Produce Safety Alliance training for producers who must meet the requirements of the Produce Safety Rule. An online resource has been developed by LCCDC to assist growers in determining their status in the food safety matrix, how they can meet those requirements and communicate their on farm food safety approach to their markets. An on-farm food safety planning workshop that will provide growers with a planning toolkit is under development. These resources and more will be available at The 2018 Montana Farmers Union Convention. During the convention a panel discussion on food safety will be held. 7
Andrea Sarchet, MDOA Food Safety Coordinator, will share information on the Produce Safety Alliance Training and the upcoming winter schedule. She will be joined by David Wise, an On Farm Food Safety Consultant, who will give an overview of the online resource tool and other resources available to growers for addressing food safety. Lake County Community Development will host a table with resources from the National Farmers Union Food Safety Collaborative. Come find us at the convention trade show for more information. Hope to see you at the 2018 convention!
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F LY- I N C O N T I N U E D
All speakers allowed questions from the audience and answered those questions, not always to the satisfaction of the audience however. That is the part of the point of the fly-in though, to question our elected officials and their staff about the decisions they have made and will make. We are there to carry our personal stories to them to add weight to the positions we are asking them to take during their deliberations. It is much easier to ignore or marginalize a number or statistics then a face with a story.
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rth Dakota concentrated on the Farm Bill specifics with his optimism that they would get it done in September. Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa faced a tough crowd acknowledging that he has heard the anxiety about the trade tariffs harming farmers. Multiple other representatives and senators spoke before a very wary and attentive crowd.
The contingent of Ag producers hustled down a quick lunch and then headed to Capitol Hill to listen to a bevy of elected officials from the House of Representatives and Senate Ag Committees. Senator Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota urged us to “Raise your patriotic voices and fight for Agriculture,” in a rousing speech deserving of a campaign rally. Her comment, “Farmer’s deserve better than being treated like collateral damage in the administration’s trade war,” was met with a standing ovation. Senator Joe Donnelly of Indiana brought up the need for rural broadband while Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota commented on the lack of mental healthcare in agriculture. Senator John Hoeven of NoMFU President Alan Merrill presents Senator Steve Daines with the Golden Triangle Award
Time is always a precious commodity in our nation’s Capital so our elected members headed back to their deliberative jobs while many of our National Farmers Union members listened to our sibling members in Canada concerning supply management in the dairy industry. Your Montana representation took advantage of some unscheduled time to confirm schedules with our senators as well arrange for a private tour of the Capitol building the next morning.
Member and rancher Colter DeVries of Roberts, MT talks policy at a congressional meeting
meeting with elected officials the next two days. We started Thursday with an amazing tour of the Capitol personally given by Christy from Senator Daines’ office. Senator Daines also happened to be our first meeting of the day. The senate leadership is keeping its members very busy this fall so we started our meeting with the Senator’s legislative aide until Senator Daines was able to join us. We discussed our concerns about the Farm Bill, trade, and healthcare. There was also an extensive discussion regarding Industrial Hemp and its possible positive impact on Montana agriculture. The Senator was extremely gracious with his time and was very attentive to our concerns, and the impact that the decisions made in D.C. are having on Montana. The clock is king in our government and if you are not early you are late, that being said we were off to our Senior Senator’s office. Senator Tester greeted us with his usual jovial smile and after the obligatory photograph he sat down to attentively listen to us and directly address our concerns with possible solutions or his takes on the state of bills or issues we brought to him. As with Senator Daines, Senator Tester listened to our personal stories and asked questions so that he could use those examples in negotiations with other legislators on our behalf. Senator Tester, as all our elected officials were, graciously gave us as much time as possible and was open to all our concerns.
One of the perks of attending the fly-in is to take advantage of North Dakota Farmers Union’s ventures into the restaurant business. Our group indulged our palates at Founding Farmers on Pennsylvania Avenue in the neighborhood of the White House. Not one of the Montana delegation went to bed hungry. I highly recommend this stop be added to any trip to D.C. We took the remainder of our evening to prepare for our more personal The Montana delegation meets with Congressman Greg Gianforte C O N T I N U E D N E X T PA G E 8
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F LY- I N C O N T I N U E D
Representative Gianforte was our next attentive ear and after a search for a room large enough to accommodate our group sat down to listen to our, at this point to us, repetitive but realistic concerns of Montana agriculture. Since the house was not voting, Representative Gianforte was able to be much more generous with his time. My group had additional meetings with the staff of Representatives of New Jersey, Georgia, New York, Mississippi, and North Mariana Islands. We were unable to meet with any of the representatives directly, due to campaign season and Hurricane Florence. Their staff were very attentive and will be forwarding our concerns and stories to their bosses. The issues that we were bringing, as I stated before, were Farm Bill, Trade, RFS, and rural healthcare. We delved into all these issues, but two rose to the top quickly and obviously to all; trade and pre-existing health conditions.. The general consensus on trade was that the goals of the administration were our goals, but the approach was terrible and irresponsible. Regardless of party or state everyone agreed with the fact of too much stick and not enough carrot in the trade war. Ag products are being considered expendable in an active and volatile trade war that has new fronts opening faster then any producer can respond. Everyone also agreed that agricultu-
FARM TO SCHOOL SUMMIT INSPIRES BY VIOLET GREEN E D U C AT I O N C O O R D I N AT O R
The Farm-to-School Summit is a bi-annual conference that was located in Missoula this year September 13-14 at the University of Montana. This conference was a great way to get inspired to get fresh & local food into facilities unlike most food bought for schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and more which are usually bought in bulk through companies like Sysco. The summit started with pre-conference tours such as farm-to-tray, Missoula Gardens, cooking up harvest of the month, and a beef-to-school tour. These tours allowed participants to get out-side and see farm-to-school happening around Missoula and surrounding towns.Thursday night we had the opportunity to hear from Anim Steel who helped co-found
Montana delegation presents Senator Jon Tester with the Golden Triangle Award.
re producers need the pre-existing provision to stay on the law books. Agriculture production is an inherently physical profession that tends to create pre-existing health conditions. Health insurance with out coverage of preexisting conditions is like no insurance at all for many. Many of us are one severe medical issue from losing the farm. We went to Washington D.C. as a herd of Farmers and Ranchers from Montana and met with our elected
officials to plead our case. We are not a majority of our nation, we are a minority, and we need to fight to make our voice heard. If you, as a member of MFU, believe you have a story to tell that will help our elected officials understand our plight and be willing get away in September consider joining your fellow Ag producer to be represented in our federal government next Fall.
the Real Food Challenge that just launched the week prior to him talking at our conference. The national campaign is to promote a healthy, fair, and sustainable food system for youth and universities. The summit included many different classes that helped educate people in their communities how to begin a program like Harvest of the Month and farm-to-school in their regions.Classes included sessions about procurement, getting food into K-12 grades along with early childhood education, skill building, and taste of Montana. If there is any interest in having your school become part of harvest of the month or farm-to- school, please contact me and I can put you in touch with some of the great people involved in this program! 9
Farm to School Summit; Photo credit Aidan Gustin
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ta Farmers Union. “Higher prices, greater demand, or do I simply have another market that I can sell into but can’t make money in?” “Agriculture will survive this trade war, but what kind of agriculture? Will it be family farms?” asked Gary Wertish, President of Minnesota Farmers Union. “There are farmers in this room who won’t make it through the next year.” That afternoon, the group visited Capitol Hill to speak with eight members of Congress about the farm bill and what they plan to do about trade and biofuel issues.
President Roger Johnson addresses fly-in attendees
advocates visited all 535 Congressional offices to discuss some of the most critical agricultural isBetween depressed prices, trade sues, including the 2018 Farm uncertainty, unpredictable weathBill, an escalating trade war, and er, and the administration’s derenewable energy. mand destruction of biofuels, family farmers and ranchers are Fall Fly-In Brings 350 Farmers having a challenging year. Though to D.C. National Farmers Union’s governIn September, 350 Farmers Union ment relations team keeps busy members traveled to Washington, year-round working for solutions D.C., to advocate for stronger to these issues on behalf of the farm and food policy. The farmorganization’s members, the Fall ers and farm advocates spoke Legislative Fly-In an opportunity to members of Congress and for members to travel to WashU.S. Department of Agriculture ington speak with their legislators (USDA) officials about how they directly. Given all the difficulties feel about the trade war, the farm in farm country, it is unsurprising bill, and other issues that will have that this year’s event was the most a tremendous impact on their well-attended in over a decade. farms and their communities.The 350 farmers, ranchers, and farm event kicked off at the USDA, wB 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
U.S. Sens. Michael Bennet of Colorado, Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota, Chuck Grassley of Iowa, here U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tina Smith of Minnesota, Joe Sonny Perdue and other officials Donnelly of Indiana, John Hospoke with the crowd about the even of North Dakota, and U.S. administration’s policies, includ- Reps. Jim McGovern of Massaing the USDA aid package for chusetts and Chellie Pingree of farmers, rural broadband, animal Maine were among the legislators health tracking, mental health in in attendance. rural communities and the opioid crisis. But chief on the minds During the following two days, of Farmers Union members and teams of Farmer Union members USDA officials was the current stopped by the offices of all 535 trade war with China. members of Congress to highlight the key objectives for the organiGregg Doud, Chief Agricultur- zation, struggles they are facing, al Negotiator for the U.S. Trade and goals for future legislation, Representative (USTR), field- including the 2018 Farm Bill. ed pointed questions from the crowd. “For farmers selling $6.62 NFU also recognized 26 outbeans in Central North Dakota standing U.S. Senators and Repretoday, can you describe what a sentatives who have demonstratwin will look like?” asked Mark ed leadership and support at the Watne, President of North Dako C O N T I N U E D PA G E 1 4
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CANDIDATES ANNOUNCE INTENT TO RUN FOR BOARD POSITION Members Tom Clark and Eric Bergman have announced their candidacy for the District 1 board position. Both candidates share their backgrounds and qualifications as it relates to qualifying for a board position.
Tom Clark, Fort Benton Chouteau County Farmers Union
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grain farm near Fort Benton. Joellyn and I were tired of the city and decided it would be best for our family to be back in Montana. We packed our three little girls up and started our new adventure learning how to be farmers. Have loved every minute of the last eight years. 2.)How did you get involved in Farmers Union? Joellyn and I met Jeff and Katie Bangs at the Young Ag Couples Conference one year and a couple years later were approached by them to consider joining the FUE couples leadership program that Farmers Union sponsors We didn’t know anything about Farmers Union when we were asked, but through the FUE experience I learned that Farmers Union strives to protect family farms like ours so we decided we’d try and have a more active role in the organization.
3.) What opportunities has your membership in Farmers Union provided? Meeting other producers from around the state and nation. Being able to see through our experience at FUE that there are so many types and ways to farm around this great big nation of ours. To meet and discuss Ag with our national and atate political leaders. Also, to help bring healthy food, grown from farms in Montana to our schools and give some of the kids a glimpse into Ag that they may not have previously had. To truly have a voice representing Rural Montana and Ag at the state and national levels through the efforts of Montana 1.) Can you share with us your back- Farmers Union and National Farmers Union, ground? I am daily surrounded by my lovely starting out right here in Chouteau County. wife Joellyn, and three daughters. Abby is a sophomore, Sarah a 7th grader and Eva a 3rd 4.) Can you talk about your efforts as Chougrader. Both Sarah and Abby have been go- teau County Farmers Union President? ing to Farmers Union camps for the last four We have continued to provide scholarship opyears and Abby is participating in the MFU portunities for both college scholarships as Senior Youth Advisory Council. well as Camperships for the Farmers Union Summer Camp programs. We are on our I consider myself a “skip generation farmer” 3rd year of providing a county pulse growmany of my relatives before my parents gen- ers meeting which included presentations last eration including both grandparents and great year on Industrial Hemp. We have also been grandparents were either farmers themselves sponsoring the schools in Chouteau County or were involved in the Ag community and that want to be involved in the Harvest of part of rural america. the Month which is a farm to school Program through MSU. Currently Fort Benton is the I grew up in the city and had limited asso- only school doing this, but we have pursued ciation with Ag growing up. I got a degree finding community members in the other in Construction Management from MSU and schools in the County. We have also been prospent 10 years in that field before getting moting the summer camp in the parade for the call from my father-in-law about coming Fort Benton’s Summer Celebration the last back to Montana and helping out on his small three years. We are always looking for ways to
partner with other organizations or programs to bring more rural education opportunities to the county. 5.) What would be your priorities as a board member? To continue to support and build up local chapters within Montana Farmers Union. To come up with a strategy of a wagon wheel approach of providing service opportunities, education and training to the local chapters. Meaning that the state office would come up with programs and education priorities as the hub and then support the local and county chapters in implementing those priorities. 6.) Why did you decide to run for the board? I thought it would be the next step in my service to the organization after being a county president.
Eric Bergman, Fort Shaw Cascade County Farmers Union
1.) Can you tell us a bit about your background?My lovely wife Audra and I met in Choteau. I was a teaching guide/education program coordinator and she was a wilderness ranger. In addition to helping with the farm, Audra is now an instructor and program coordinator at a health and wellness center. We both still like getting out in the backcountry when we get a chance. We have one seven year old son, Leif. He is handsome, brilliant, strong and kind. I wasn't raised on a farm. My grandparents were farmers in North Dakota. My dad came to Montana from there, and I’m fourth generation Montanan on my Mom’s side. C O N T I N U E D PA G E 1 4
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COLLABORATION KEY TO MAKING THINGS HAPPEN BY JUSTIN LOCH M E M B E R S H I P D I R E C TO R
There are many different Ag organizations that one can be a part of. Each has something different that may appeal to a person and work for their beliefs. Montana Farmers Union works hard to advocate for our family farmers and ranchers. That being said, it’s also beneficial to work with other Ag organizations to create a louder more effective movement.One of the best partners Montana Famers Union along with National Farmers Union has worked with is the U.S .Cattlemen’s Association(USCA). Together we have spent countless hours and resources to fight for one of our biggest beliefs, Country-Of-Origin Labeling (COOL). Although we have yet to get COOL mandatory, MFU and USCA is still continuing to work towards making COOL mandatory. Currently COOL is voluntary, but bills are set to be introduced in the Montana Legislature this winter that would push Montana to be a Mandatory COOL state. Other states are working to do the same. MFU will continue to work with other Ag organizations in support of COOL. Montana raises some of the best beef in the world, and consumers want and deserve to know where their food comes from! Recently I attended USCA’s Producer Forum with MFU board members Brett Dailey and William Downs. MFU was a proud sponsor of this event. Jess Peterson, Senior Policy Advisor for the USCA, praised MFU and NFU for our collaboration on COOL. At this particular meeting some new challenges came forward for major discussion. The issues included discussion on Electronic Logging Devices(ELDs) for livestock haulers, and lab created meat. Both of these have the potential to affect livestock producers in a very big way. Currently there is a waiver in place for livestock haulers instead of making them stop after so many hours of service for rest. Several hauling experts spoke on the effects of what will happen should a permanent mandate be put in place. Trips that used to take a full day will now take two days and animals will have to off loaded from the truck and held while the truck and driver are out of service. There will be increased stress and shrinkage on the livestock, higher operation costs, and more manpower to help move livestock on and off
trucks. In some cases animals may even have to sit on a truck for longer periods of time which brings up humane treatment issues. An exemption is needed and MFU will continue to monitor and work where needed on this issue. Second issue is that of lab created meat or cultured meat. This meat is created in a lab from in vitro animal cells instead of slaughtered animals. USCA is working on legislation that the words “meat” and “beef ” not be used to advertise meat that is not derived from animals and slaughtered in a traditional manner. Again Montana raises some of the best beef and meat around and we deserve to let the public know and not let an imposter like lab grown meat be taken over for our ranchers’ hard work and livelihood. I encourage all of you to pay attention to these developments and use your voice when needed. MFU and its delegation recently returned from our annual legislative D.C. Fly-in. The major issues discussed were passing the Farm Bill, give an extension so programs aren’t interrupted and of course the hot button issue of trade. While back in D.C. USCA reached out to MFU and asked for help in lobbying to support the expansion of rural broadband. MFU members Barry Francis of Havre, and Colter DeVries of Roberts stayed a couple extra days and helped give a stronger voice, not only to USCA, but for all of our rural folks. Their lobbying efforts went well and they stated their work was effective. After work12
ing with and being part of USCA’s events, the past couple weeks I am reminded of the power and effectiveness that a good working relationship amongst all of the ag groups can be. I know several people are members of more than one organization and that’s great! We need to keep working not just within our own organizations, but with each other as well. A great example of this partnership is several major Ag organizations coming together to support the Young Ag Leadership Conference October 5-7 in Billings. MFU is a proud sponsor of this event and has a staff member on the planning committee. I encourage producers and supporters of Ag under the age of 40 to attend this event and support all of the Ag organizations and their efforts. In closing, keep supporting your Ag organization and don’t be afraid to step outside and support others if they are working to support what you believe in and work for.
In Memoriam:
Calvin Rice Broadus, (December 2016)
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m Bill provides that certainty. That is why I am urging my colleagues to pass a strong Farm Bill before the September deadline. There is no reason Congress should drag its feet. It is time for Washington to take a lesson from Montana farmers and get the job done on time.
A MESSAGE FROM SENATOR STEVE DAINES
nd a conference committee is working on the final version. Montana farmers need the certainty that the Farm Bill will provide, and it is time to finish the job.
A MESSAGE FROM CONGRESSMAN GREG GIANFORTE
A MESSAGE FROM SENATOR JON TESTER Thank you for recognizing this Montana farmer with this year’s Montana Farmers Union Golden Triangle Award. As a fellow farmer, I know it is irresponsible not get your job done on time. In production agriculture, if farmers don’t get their seeds in the ground on time, they suffer the consequences. If farmers wait too long to repair broken equipment, the problem only gets worse. Washington politicians could learn a lot from Montana farmers, because the deadline to pass a new Farm Bill is quickly approaching.
As Montana’s lone voice on the Senate Ag committee, I’m pleased to report that we had many important wins for Montana in the Senate Farm Bill. These include the establishment of a vaccine bank, support for disaster relief, and conservation programs. It also includes critical funding for ag research programs, as If Congress fails to act by the end of Septem- well as ensuring that rural broadband develber, the current Farm Bill expires. And kick- opment is prioritized for rural areas. I was ing the can down the road two months doesn’t pleased to support the Senate Farm Bill, and I’ll fight to ensure that the final Farm Bill indo anyone good. cludes these provisions. This summer I partnered with both parties to pass a strong Farm Bill in the Senate that pro- While the economic landscape of our state tects crop insurance, supports conservation, continues to evolve and change, agriculture and invests in rural America. But the politi- remains our number 1 industry. It is vitally cal majority in both the House and Senate are important to our nation’s future security that we can feed ourselves and the rest of the making political hay out of the Farm Bill. world. I am confident that the Senate Farm They are combining and cutting funding for Bill will give Montana farmers and ranchers CSP and EQIP, and they are slashing nutrition the certainty they need to move forward and assistance for rural seniors and families. The keep our Montana agriculture industry strong. House Farm Bill doesn’t have the bipartisan support needed to get signed into law, that is With ag producers facing so much uncertain a fact. Montana family farmers and ranchers ty, Congress and the administration need to need certainty, especially while we are fighting get the Farm Bill done and signed into law by our way through a trade war. The Senate Far- September 30. Both houses of Congress have now passed versions of the Farm Bill, a1133
I enjoyed meeting with members of Montana Farmers Union in September. It’s always a pleasure welcoming Montanans to our nation’s capital and talking about issues important to you. We had a great conversation, and I appreciate your input about trade and crop insurance. As I write this, the Senate and House are working through differences between their respective Farm Bills. I sent a letter to negotiators with requests that will benefit Montana. I urged them to support strengthened Price Loss Coverage and Agriculture Risk Coverage, keep the sugar program, and protect the Agricultural Research Service. I also asked them to maintain the Farm Credit System and to support the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network, so we can continue addressing the crisis of farmer suicide. I’ll keep working to ensure the new Farm Bill has Montana’s fingerprints on it. The differences between the House and Senate bills must be ironed out so we can get a new Farm Bill to the president. Our farmers and ranchers need the greater certainty that will come with a new Farm Bill. We’ve come a long way with the Farm Bill, but it’s time to get a new Farm Bill that works for Montana across the finish line.
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C A N D I D AT E S C O N T I N U E D
I was born and raised in Great Falls, earned a bachelor’s degree in biology/zoological emphasis, and a master’s degree in science education, both from The University of Montana. I recognize farming and agriculture as an industry that brings together many of the interests, skills, motivations, and much of the understanding I have developed over the years. Namely, I like working with living systems and working outside, I appreciate the challenges and opportunities of self-employment and rural life, and I recognize how issues of energy, economy and the environment interact in farming and how this has important implications both on our farms and in our broader society. Beginning in 2009, my wife, Audra, and I poured our modest assets and all of our efforts into starting a small farm. We began by leasing land, and three years later were able to finance a small acreage and home in Fort Shaw. The farm has been in a consistent state of evolution, but has been built on direct to consumer marketing of vegetables, pastured pork, and grass fed beef. We are slowly working more into some wholesale markets.
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of family farming. One specific concern of tunities for farmers and their neighbors. I mine is the increasing consolidation of mar- hope to honor tradition while seeking creative ket power in the agricultural industries. and innovative ways to adapt in a changing industry. 4.) What opportunities has your membership in Farmers Union provided? The friendships and connections found in mem- W A S H I N G T O N C O R N E R C O N T I N U E D bership have provided a broad education and awareness of agricultural practices and issues. federal policymaking level for family farmI have had the opportunity to add my voice to ers, ranchers, and rural communities with the the farming community at a local, statewide, Golden Triangle Award, the organization’s highest legislative honor. and national level. 5.) Can you talk about your efforts as Cascade County President? I think the county and local levels of organization can play an important role. The more opportunities for discussion and collaboration, the better it is for the democratic process. We have used the county meetings as a communication link to the activities at the state and national farmers union levels. The county has maintained sponsorship for youth scholarships. One specific project was helping to organize and host a mock hearing for agri-tourism legislation. A version of this was subsequently passed by the Montana legislature.
6.) What would be your priorities as a 2.) How did you become involved in Farm- board member? My priority would be to find ers Union? In 2012 President Alan Merrill where the interests of all Board representainvited Audra and I to participate in the FUE tives and the greater membership best overlap. Couples Leadership Program.This incredible This will help guide our actions. In general, I opportunity brought us into the organization. would prioritize maintaining and strengthenThe history, policy positions, and fellowship ing the unique voice of the Farmers Union of farmers resonates with us and we have as an advocate for a fair and thriving farm been active since. I have participated as a del- economy. egate to the National Farmers Union Convention, at the Washington D.C. Fly-in, as a MFU 7.)Why did you decide to run for the board? lobbyist during the 2017 Montana Legislative I'm an advocate for civic engagement and coSession, and am currently president of the operation. I have a strong interest in poliCascade County Farmers Union. cy and democratic governance. Serving as a Board member provides me an opportunity to 3.) What are some farm policies that are actively work toward common goals. of particular interest to you? Over the generations, we've progressed to fewer and fewer 8.)What would you say is the greatest iscitizens having a direct connection with food sue Montana agriculture faces? Ensuring production and agricultural supply chains. I that farm production and the associated land think it is important to maintain and strength- stewardship is economically viable work for en connections between the land, farming, as many people as possible is a great challenge food systems and the broader population so that I think will have importance for generathat producers have strong allies amongst tions to come. our neighbors. Farming is obviously a critical 9.)What are you hoping to accomplish as foundation to civilization, and even so, it is a board member? I hope to contribute to a a notably challenging business proposition. strong and growing Montana Farmers Union I'm interested in economic and social policies membership. I hope to help design and prothat acknowledge and support the importance vide useful learning and collaboration oppor-
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Net Farm Income Expected to Fall Again The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service (ERS) released its annual farm income forecast at the end of August. The report provides little good news for already struggling farmers and ranchers. The farm economy has been severely depressed for several years now, and farm income is expected to decrease another $9.8 billion, or 13 percent, in 2018. Other values don’t look promising either; as income plummets, production expenses are forecast to increase by $11.8 billion. And, according to ERS, “the farm business average net cash farm income is forecast to decline $16,600 (19.9 percent) to $66,700 in 2018. This would be the 4th consecutive decline since 2014 and the lowest average income recorded since the series began in 2010.” National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson said that the ERS report is indicative of the problems family farmers and ranchers are facing. “Farm income has been cut in half over the past five years, and a majority of family farmers are currently earning negative farm income,” Johnson said. “Now, largely because of volatility in trade and depressed biofuel markets, there is no improvement in prices in sight.” Johnson urged Congress to act quickly to pass a strong farm bill. He also asked the administration to “deliver on its promises to support the RFS” as well as to provide “strong, fair trade agreements” and “long-term solutions to current trade market disruptions.” The Washington Corner can also be found at nfu.org/corner.
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SAVE THE DATE: 2019 MFU WOMEN’S CONFERENCE
February 1-3, 2019 Fairmont Hot Springs Registration: $95/Members; $135 Nonmembers; includes meals and lodging Register at montanafarmersunion.com Keynote: Jolene Brown is a walking-talking spokesperson and champion for the people of agriculture. She's a farmer in Eastern Iowa, contributor to Successful Farming magazine’s popular family business column, blogger for PinkTractor.com, author of two great books and recent inductee in to the prestigious CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame. Her worldwide audiences appreciate her fun-filled spirit and valuable information.
CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS: • Workshops on personal & professional development • Tours: Headframe Spirits Inc.,Butte Brewery and Montana Craft Malt • Fantastic networking opportunities
*** Registration Opens Nov. 1, 2018
WE’RE A FAMILY OF COMPANIES. AND FAMILY IS ALWAYS THERE FOR YOU.
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