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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
MEMBERS GATHER FOR THE 104TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION IN GREAT FALLS The 2019 state convention theme Exploring Ideas, Innovation and Impact brought members together from all over the state. The event was held October 25-26 at the Heritage Inn. The convention featured workshops on precision agriculture, trade, grizzly management, malt barley testing, suicide prevention and more. Keynote speakers included Dr. Sreekala Bajwa, Roger Johnson, Luc Swensson and entertainment by hypnotist Erick Kand and a murder mystery dinner theatre. Members elected state officers including Walter Schweitzer to serve as President. "I am humbled that my neighbors and fellow Montana Farmers Union members have entrusted me with this great opportunity and responsibility.” C O N T I N U E D PA G E 6
FIX USMCA AND FINISH TRANS PACIFIC AGREEMENTS
by the directors of NFU (National Farmers Union) asking Congress to fix USMCA. To gain NFU support for USMCA, Congress must provide needed protections B Y WA LT E R S C H W E I T Z E R for American family farm-ers and We currently have a trade agree- ranchers.The agreement should ment with Canada and Mexico; strengthen labor, environment, it is called NAFTA.I support the and enforcement provisions; recresolution unanimously approved tify language related to prescription drugs; strengthen anti-dumping protections for agricultural NONPROFIT ORG goods;GAINS and re-establish Country• COOL TRACTION IN US POSTAGE of-Origin Labeling (COOL) auPAID thority. CONGRESS
IN THIS EDITION:
LIVINGSTON, MT PERMIT NO. 93
SomeADOPTS AG organizations are • MFU SPECIAL OR-
• •
promoting ratification of the USMCA. you get aTRADE chance, ask DERS ONIfHEMP, & how USMCA benefits the family farm. They don’t have a good CSKT answer. Some say it allows wheat 2020 WOMEN’S growers to exportCONFERwheat to Canada. While it does create a path to ENCE deliver PREVIEW wheat to Canada, the Canadian Wheat Pool will only acBILL BOOST cept WILL wheat grown fromMENTAL Canadian varieties. Others say it helps the HEALTH SERVICES dairy farmers but if you ask the dairy farmers they say it allows the milk processor to pit US dairy farmers against Canadian dairy
farmers and favors large multina- ing farmland in Mexico, South tional dairies. America and Ukraine to wean itself from US farm products. Our efforts should be focused on Family farmers and ranchers are getting trade agreements with key sacrificing our markets so that Asian customers we lost when the multinational corporations can US pulled out of the TPP (Trans build their technology in China Pacific Partnership). Our com- without sharing their patents. I petitors have been able to export have a suggestion why don’t these their products to these Asian mar- companies build their technology kets without the excessive tariffs in countries that respect their patimposed on US products because ents and leave our markets alone. we signed out of the TPP. We The sooner agreements with Chihave only renegotiated one agree- na, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore ment and that is with Japan. This and other Asian Countries can be agreement is basically the same as signed the quicker we can start TPP but it doesn’t immediately trying to rebuild these markets. reduce tariffs for US products. I have always said it is easier to Tariff reductions are phased in al- keep a customer than to get one lowing our competitors a market back or find a new one. We have advantage for several more years. our work cut out for us because we will have to fight to get our The trade war with China has cost markets back and work to find us markets that we have spent de- new ones. . cades developing. China is not only the largest soybean importer but has become the largest beef PAGE 8 7 importer. PAGE The USA producers 2017 Arrowpeak Sneakon Peek the while are sitting the of sidelines Camp theme 2017 Producers our competitors are establishing revealed! long termConference agreements with China. China is building ports and buy-
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT I am honored to have been elected Montana Farmers Union President by producer members who drove treacherous wintery roads to attend the convention. I look forward to visiting with you at an event near your community. One of my main goals is to grow our membership and I need your help. Please let our office know about events in your community that would be enhanced with MFU participation by mailing, calling or emailing the details of the event to our office. Plesae call (406)452-6406 or email the information to mfu@montanafarmersunion.com. I want to thank Alan Merrill for his 14 years of service as MFU president. He and his family have dedicated three generations to Montana Farmers Union and played a role in making MFU what it is today. Thank you to the Merrill family. As President I started by chairing the MFU board meeting Sunday. The board evaluated the state convention and the board unanimously agreed to commend the staff on their hard work. Jan Tusick was elected Secretary/ Treasurer. Monday morning was an all staff meeting which provided an opportunity to get
to know each other and to make a few plans as a team. Every staffer works hard each day to further the MFU goals and objectives. One of my goals is to organize a few more MFU events near you and I am counting on your help planning and turning out people to these events. Please respond to the survey in this newsletter.
gress passed COOL into law. Some of the highest prices Montana family farms received for our commodities was while COOL was enforced. Within 6 months of COOL being killed by Congress for beef and pork feeder calf prices had dropped by nearly 50% and yet the price of a steak in the store stayed the same price. Over the next few years all commodities followed the downward trend. OpMy first week ended in Bozeman where I at- ponents to COOL claim other factors caused tended the MSU Agriculture Celebration. the downward trend, I disagree and suggest Montana Farmers Union is a proud sponsor we try COOL again and see if prices rebound. of MSU's Celebrate Agriculture Scholarship Dinner. I am encouraged by South Dakota Senators Thune and Rounds recognition of the misMeanwhile in Washington DC, Senator Jon leading label “Product of USA”. They have Tester submitted a resolution asking Congress introduced a bill that will stop the practice to reinstate COOL (Country of Origin Label- of letting Multinational Meat Packers from ing) for beef and pork. The consumer has the importing hamburger from foreign countries right to know where their food comes from and packaging it with a label “Product of and the producer has the right to distinguish USA”. It will require beef or pork to be born, our products from foreign products. In 2015 raised and slaughtered to be labeled “Product Congress repealed COOL for only beef and of USA”. Hopefully they will be willing to pork at the urging of multinational meat pack- work with Senator Tester to reinstate COOL. ers with the backing of NCBA, Stockgrowers and Farm Bureau. NFU and MFU had Week one went great and I look forward to invested time and money for years promoting the next two years. COOL for all AG commodities before Con-
Walter Schweitzer
re or rma-
Rollie Schlepp conducted installation of officers: John Wendland, Door Keeper;Tom Clark, Conductor; Ben Peterson, District 5 & 6 At-Large; Erik Somerfeld, District 2; Jan Tusick, District 6 and Walter Schweitzer, President.
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IN THIS ISSUE
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!!
Convention Highlights Page 4 & 5
Member Recruited by
Zachariah & Kristin Buck, Rosebud Ron & Michelle Cox, McHenry IL Rory & Christine McDowall, Miles City Howard & Johnna Newman, Ingomar Torrey Watts, Miles City RKS Properties LLC, Billings Scott & Misticka Hisdahl, Circle Brad Schraudner Revocable Trust, Bozeman Robert & Peggy McSweyn, Shepherd James Bobo, Medicine Lake R & L Petersen Farm LLC, Billings William Warfield, Livingston Hubert & Darlene Weber, Livingston Jeffrey & Kelly Heyd, Worden Ronnie Freeman, Corvallis Abigail Byers, Ronan Allen & Helen Detert, St Ignatius Matthew Pflieger, Lebanon AP Michelle Aasand & Jeremiah Blatter, Great Falls Paul Neubauer, Havre Robert Martinez & Amanda Blest, Anaconda
Ron & Blayne Watts Ron & Blayne Watts Ron & Blayne Watts Ron & Blayne Watts Ron & Blayne Watts Dallas Hagfeldt, Jr. Jesse Fleming Steve Plaggemeyer
Members Pass Special Orders of Business Page 6 Thank You Convention Sponsors! Page 7
K J Fauth Austin O’Dea Dirk Elings Daryl Hansen Daryl Hansen Melissa Wacker Bryan Jones Andrew Luedtke Andrew Luedtke Andrew Luedtke MFU Lodge
Youth Leaders Recognized at State Convention; Centennial Farm Honors Page 8 & 9
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 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 Jan Tusick, District 6, Ronan State Office Staff:
2020 Women’s Conference Highlights & Agenda Page 10 Washington Corner, Roger Johnson Page 11
Doug Crabtree Justin Loch
Study Examines Impacts of Montana Hutterite Colonies on State’s Economy Page 12
In Memoriam:
Elsie Tuss, Floweree Donald Moffett, Fallon
Tester Looking to Bring Back COOL to Washington Page 13 Rounds, Thune Push to Keep Foreign Beef from Receiving Product of the U.S.A. Label Page 14
2019 LEGISLATIVE FUND Charlotte & Ed Kelly, Chester Ben Peterson, Judith Gap Tom & Joellyn Clark, Fort Benton Jed Didier, Chester Lela Didier, Chester Scott & Misty LeFurgey, Loma William Woodhouse, Power
MFU Participates in Curriculum Planning at the National Level for ag education Page 15
Jan Johnson, Office Mgr., Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer Lyndsay Bruno, Communications Director Justin Loch, Membership Director Dave Snuggs, Facility Director Violet Green, Education Coordinator Vicky Jo Reeves, Education & Program Assistant
Copyright © Montana Farmers Union, 2019 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
SAVE THE DATE: 2020 MFU State Convention:
October 30-31, 2020 Heritage Inn, Great Falls, MT 3
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CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS Luc Swensson, founder of I love This Life Foundation and Great Falls native, gave the keynote address at the youth banquet. Luc talked about his inspiration behind starting the nonprofit. Luc’s message focused on anti-bullying, prevention and awareness of teen suicide. Luc has also created an inspiring shoe line called HOLO(Hope & Love). Each shoe is branded with a positive message. To learn more about Luc’s foundation and his efforts visit ilovethislife. org.
THE SILENT & LIVE AUCTION B RO U G H T I N F U N D S F O R T H E M F U F O U N D AT I O N T O F U N D E D U C A T I O N P RO G R A M S A N D S C H O L A R SHIPS
T H A N K YO U TO A L L T H E S I L E N T A U C T I O N D O N O R S A N D S U P P O RT E R S !
M E M B E R J E R I C O P E N H AV E R TESTIFIES DURING POLICY
F A R M E R S U N I O N E N T E R P R I S E C O U P L E KO DY A N D S E R E N A C AT O R
M A N N I X C E N T E N N I A L F A M I LY H O N O R E D
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ALAN MERRILL PRESENTS LUC SWENSSON A CHECK FOR I LOVE T H I S L I F E F O U N D AT I O N
F R I D AY N I G H T E N T E R T A I N M E N T F E AT U R E D H Y P N O T I S T E R I C K K A N D
A G H O S T I N T H E H E R I TA G E I N N ? W H O D O W E C A L L ? G H O S TBUSTERS!!
PHILLIP PREWETT FUNDRAISING F O R T H E M F U F O U N D AT I O N
E V A N A N D J U DY V E R V I C K : C E N T E N N I A L F A M I LY H O N O R E D
F U E P R E S I D E N T S D U R I N G F R I D AY ’ S R O U N D TA B L E D I S C U S S I O N
AT F R I D AY ’ S L U N C H E O N T H E PA R K E R C O - O P S C H O L A R S H I P C H E C K WA S AWA R D E D
T H E W E A V E R F A M I LY H O N O R E D A S A C E N T E N N I A L F A M I LY
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CONVENTION CONTINUED
In addition officers were re-elected to represent the following districts: Jan Tusick, District 6; Ben Peterson, District 5 & 6 At-Large, Erik Somerfeld representing District 2; John Wendland as Door Keeper and Tom Clark as Conductor. The officers were sworn in at the convention’s closing banquet. Also at the convention delegates for the National Farmers Union convention were selected. The 2020 NFU delegates are Jeri Copenhaver, Doug Crabtree, Laura Garber, Lilly Green, Kirby Hancock, Hadley Gideon,Cory Kelly, Maggie Shane and youth delegate Abby Clark. Paul Neubauer and Tyce Erickson are alternates. One of the main objectives of the annual convention is the adoption of policy by membership. Each year a policy committee is selected and presents resolutions and policy items to members. In addition to policy changes, which will be reflected in the updated policy book and available on the website, the body passed three special orders. SPECIAL ORDERS OF BUSINESS: 1.)Ratification of the CSKT Water Compact
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tive session. Agriculture faces uncertainty in many areas including low commodity prices and weather that threatens adequate water supply. Water is our state’s most valuable resource and the CSKT Water Compact protects this resource in many ways. First and foremost the CSKT Water Compact removes the threat of litigation Montana water users could face. Secondly the CSKT Water Compact will provide certainty for water usage on the Flathead Reservation and statewide. The CSKT Water Compact must be ratified in a timely manner with the looming deadline for expiration or re-negotiation. MFU will actively seek ratification legislation from our congressional delegation.
global market share and the decrease in farm income. The current administration’s efforts to offset the retaliatory tariffs with MFP payments have in no way been sufficient to compensate for market losses that family farms have experienced. MFU urges the restoration of open trade with countries around the world and the elimination of current adverse trade practices that affect Montana ag.
2.) Family Farms and Trade Policy
• Ensuring the availability of quality seed • Assuring that hemp growers will have unmitigated access to the banking system and FDIC and local banks update their policies to current hemp laws • Allowing producers to sell and ship seed across state lines • Create a crop insurance program that covers producers in a manner similar to other commodities • Encourage MSU and other research institutions to begin field trials of hemp in a variety of climates around the state and region • Lobby for hemp to be regulated as a food produce by the FDA.
Access to global markets is critical for family farms in Montana. Montana agricultural exports account for about 75-80% of Montana farm incomes. Montana farmers and ranchers rely heavily on strong export markets and are struggling with the retaliatory tariffs placed on commodities that Montana farmers and ranchers produce. We support efforts to balance the trade deficit and unfair trade practices as well as expand trade with other countries.
Montana Farmers Union demands our congressional delegation introduce legislation for We urge that the retaliatory tariffs be resolved the ratification of the CSKT Water Compact to stop the monumental losses to Montana that was passed in the 2015 Montana legisla- farmers and ranchers including the loss of
Montana Farmers Union supports laws to allow production of Hemp, including, but not limited to:
THANK YOU 2019 CONVENTION VENDORS!
2019 STATE CONVENTION RECOGNITIONS THANK YOU TO OUR CAPITOL CLUB MEMBERS! Andrew & Jen Bishop, Brady Brett & Donna Dailey, Jordan Peggy Doheny, Dutton Eric & Amanda Doheny, Dutton Keith Good, Floweree Kevin & Robyn Good, Floweree Alan & Lorrie Merrill, Big Sandy Ruth Merrill, Big Sandy Beth Murphy, Great Falls Henry & Vanette Nagamori, Loma Cindy Palmer & Walter Schweitzer, Geyser Dean & Trudi Peterson, Judith Gap Jerry Redlin, Sidney Jon & Karen Redlin, Lambert
3.) Hemp Production
Kim Lockman Russell Nemetz Communications Lane Nordlund Communications Cargill Center for Mental Health DNRC Invasive Species Council Farmers Union Insurance Max Ag, Mission Mountain Food Enterprise Center Montana Beef Council Montana Farmers Union MSU Northern Diesel Mechanics Program Montana State FFA Foundation Montana Cooperative Development Center National Center for Appropriate Technology Soder’s Fleet Supply STARadio/KINX Twin Floral USDA/NASS/
Dore & Patti Schwinden, Helena Sigurd & Joyce Rudie, Fairview Kelly & Kristie Rutledge, Big Sandy Rollie & Jennifer Schlepp, Conrad Dore & Pattie Schwinden, Helena Erik Somerfeld, Power Del & Karla Styren, Brady Jan Tusick, Polson John & Claire Wendland, Rudyard
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Belt Billings Bozeman Great Falls Great Falls Helena Great Falls Fort Benton Ronan Billings Great Falls Havre Bozeman Great Falls Butte Great Falls Great Falls Great Falls MT FO
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THANK YOU CONVENTION SPONSORS FOR YOUR SPONSORSHIP OF THE 2019 STATE CONVENTION!
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MFU YOUTH RECOGNIZED AT STATE CONVENTION Four Montana Farmers Union junior youth received the Mildred Stoltz Scholarship Award at the organization’s 104th annual meeting and convention at the Youth Luncheon in Great Falls on Saturday, October 26, 2019. The 2019 Mildred Stoltz award recipients are: Mason Anderson, Madelyn McElhenney, Bailey LeFurgey and Colt Antonich. The recipients receive a plaque, $50 and a free camp registration for the next camp season. Mildred Stoltz was MFU’s education director for more than 18 years. In her honor, the Farmers Union Oil Company of Great Falls – now Mountain View Co-op – set up a fund to recognize youth for their leadership skills and cooperative spirit. Each year youth are selected from Arrowpeak Junior Camp, which is located in the Highwood Mountains.
2019 MFU TORCHBEARER: James Van Spyk Great Falls, MT
JAMES VAN SPYK 2019 Torchbearer
Mildred Stoltz winners with Education Coordinator Violet Green:Colt Antonich, Bailey LeFurgey, Mason Anderson & Madelyn McElhenney
MFU YOUTH SHARES EXPERIENCE ON STATE CONVENTION BY PHILLIP PREWETT
I'm James Van Spyk and I was born and raised in Great Falls. MT. I'm currently a senior at Great Falls High School. I plan on attending Montana State University with a major in Computer Science in 2020. I was first introduced to Montana Farmers Union 6 years ago when I attended the annual leadership camp for the first time. I instantly fell in love with the camp and looked forward to going back every year since. Two years ago I decided to help staff the camps. There was no particular reason why I joined but I found that I enjoyed every minute of it. I hope to continue cultivating the young leaders of tomorrow and myself. 8
The opportunity to attend the Montana Farmers Union convention was one I couldn’t turn down. Growing up in a family heavily involved in agriculture and Montana Farmers Union. I had the chance to attend The Montana Farmers Union youth camps. As a result of those camps I never really did lose touch with Farmers Union. I have been involved with Montana Farmers Union for eight years and have truly become an active member of the organization in the last two years. This year I ran for the Senior Youth Advisory Council (SYAC) and was fortunate to receive a place on the team. What SYAC does is plans the camps for the summer and helps incorporate the youth with MFU. Some goals I have for the camps is to show the youth more of what the camps roots are
and what Montana Farmers Union is all about. I also want to incorporate more of Montana’s food that is produced by local farmers and ranchers. This year attending the state convention was a big eye-opener. One thing that caught my eye the most was The Precision Ag Concepts workshop. I was amazed at what I had learned. Another workshop that I was very interested in was suicide prevention. It was a huge eye-opener for me to see so many farmers and ranchers that have struggled with thinking or attempting suicide. I also didn’t know what to do if that was present in my community and the workshop provided great education on how to deal with situations along the lines of suicide. MFU has had the biggest impact on my life and I don’t know where I would be without it.
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WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! MFU cares about our communities and wants to support events in your area! If you have information on an event you would like to share or an event you want to see in your community please fill out this form and mail it to P.O. Box 2447, Great Falls, MT 59403 or email the information to mfu@montanafarmersunion.com. What workshops would you would like to see in your community? Please circle any that are of interest to you or make a suggestion(s).
Is there an event in your community that you would like MFU to know about? If so please provide some details below.
Your name:
Candidate Forums Conventional Crops
Event name:
Livestock Estate Planning
Event location:
Speciality Crops Renewable Energy
Date of the event:
Mental Health/Suicide Hemp
Organization:
Trade Country-of-Origin Labeling
Are you interested in supporting the event in one of the following ways?
MFU Auction donation
MFU Event sponsorship
MFU rep to present/attend event.
Provide educational materials
Other: Topics:
LOOKING FOR A GIFT IDEA?
MFU is excited to announce that it will soon have MFU swag for youth and adults available for online purchase! Some of the items will include hooded sweatshirts, hats, outerwear, teeshirts and more! Follow us on Facebook for details!
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Join us for the 2020 MFU Women’s Conference at Fairmont Hot Springs February 2123, 2020. This year’s theme is Celebrating Montana Women by exploring and celebrating entrepreneurship in agriculture!
Registration: the cost to register is $95 members & $135 nonmembers. Registration includes lodging and meals. Headliner: Sarah Calhoun with Red Ants Pants
Workshops: • Women Entrepreneurs: Pushing Boundaries & Breaking Rules; Sassy Girl MediaDeanna Fusillo-Hinsz
Register today: montanafarmersunion.com
• Suicide Prevention • Succession Planning & more!
CONFERENCE AGENDA: Friday, Feb. 21, 2020 4:00-6:00: Check-in 5:00-6:00: Cocktail hour/vendor booths 6:00-7:00: Dinner- MFU Introduction 7:30-8:30: Keynote Speaker; Sarah Calhoun 8:30-9:30: Enjoy Hot Springs!!
Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020 8:00-8:30: Breakfast; MFU Presentation 8:30-9:30: Panel Discussion: Entrepreneurs in Montana; Led by Sarah Calhoun 9:30-10:00: Break/Vendors 10:00-11:30: Succession Planning; Jen Bishop 11:30-11:45: Break/Vendors 11:45-12:15: Round Table Discussion (Policy); Jan Tusick, Tammy Copenhaver, Jeri Copenhaver 12:15-1:15: Lunch 1:15-2:00: Women Entrepreneurs: Pushing Boundaries & Breaking Rules; Sassy Girl Media- Deanna Fusillo-Hinsz 2:00-3:00: Goat milk; Soap Making Workshop; Alisha Hadfield 3:00-3:15: Break/ Vendors
3:15-4:15: Suicide Prevention: Missoula County Health Department; Nancy de Pastino
Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020, cont.
4:15-5:30: Concurrent Workshops: choose one: 1.) Photography course; Alisha Hadfield 2.)Zumba; Abby Majerus?? 5:30-6:00: Break/ Vendors & Cocktail Hour
6:00-7:00: Dinner
7:00- ENJOY HOTSPRINGS!!!
Sunday, Feb. 23, 2020
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Pack-up & leave
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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
Family farmers and ranchers have been waiting for months for updates on the United States’ trade relationship with China and on biofuels policy. This month, they finally got both – but it is still unclear what the implications of either will be in the long term. President Trump announced a tentative trade deal with China, saying that the country will import up to $50 billion worth of U.S. farm goods, but the terms of the deal are as of yet unknown. On the other hand, the EPA released its plan to offset the lost demand due to the misappropriation of small refinery exemptions – but it appears that it will only compensate for a small portion of the 4 billion gallon total. Read about all that and more in this month’s Washington Corner.
tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese imports from 25 percent to 30 percent, which had been scheduled to kick in on October 15. In exchange, China has agreed to what are thus far unspecified changes to intellectual property policies and currency guidelines. The country will also reportedly make annual purchases of roughly $40 billion to $50 billion worth of agricultural goods from the United States, which will ramp up over the next two years. This is almost double the greatest value of farm products the U.S. has ever exported to China in any given year - $25.9 billion in 2012 - and about six times more than this year’s exports. Specifics of the deal are expected to be made public in the next month. It is unclear if the agreement will result in meaningful changes to China’s policies, what China plans to purchase, or if American farmers are capable of producing enough to fill such a hefty order. Even President Trump seemed skeptical that current production levels would adequate.
WHITE HOUSE ANNOUNCES TRADE DEAL WITH CHINA After many months of stalled negotiations, President Donald Trump announced that the United States had finally reached an agreement in principle with China to put the brakes on a trade dis"I'd suggest the farmers have to pute between the two countries. go and immediately buy more Though the specific terms of the land and get bigger tractors, "he deal have not yet been made pub- noted during a press conference lic, according to the President, with China's Vice Premier Liu the United States will not increase He.
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Additionally, given the often volatile relationship between the two countries, many are worried that the truce could fall apart before the deal is finalized.
sector during that time has been under the benchmark, representing a 1.4-billion-bushel decline in demand for corn and an 825-million-bushel decline for soybeans. Family farmers have, conseNational Farmers Union (NFU) quently, lost millions of dollars was encouraged by the announce- of hard-earned income, upwards ment, but hesitant to celebrate it of 30 biofuels plants have halted prematurely. "While we are glad production, and hundreds of ruto see a détente in this seemingly ral Americans have lost their jobs. endless trade war, the tangible benefits to American family farm- BIPARTISAN BILL WOULD ers and ranchers are unclear," said BOOST RURAL MENTAL NFU President Roger Johnson. HEALTH SERVICES If and when the deal is finalized, In response to a growing farmer Johnson urged the administration mental health crisis, U.S. Senators to "work with our friends and al- Jon Tester of Montana and Chuck lies" to address China's unfair Grassley of Iowa introduced the and manipulative trade practices Seeding Rural Resilience Act to with "substantive and meaningful increase access to mental health resources in rural communities. reforms." Specifically, the bill would impleEPA'S BIOFUELS FIX A BRO- ment a stress management trainKEN PROMISE TO AMERI- ing program to Farm Service Agency, Risk Management AgenCAN FARMERS Shortly after announcing its in- cy, and National Resources Contentions to offset a portion of the servation Service employees; pro4 billion gallons of demand for vide funding for a PSA campaign biofuels eliminated due to the on- bringing awareness to the issue; going misappropriation of small and direct the Secretary of Agrirefinery exemptions (SREs), the culture to work with state, local, U.S. Environmental Protection and nongovernmental stakeholdAgency (EPA) released a supple- ers to determine best practices mental proposed rule outlining for responding to farm and ranch mental stress. Heavy workloads, how it plans to do so. social isolation, and unpredictUnder the Renewable Fuel Stan- able markets are just a handful dard (RFS), 15 billion gallons of of the stressors that farmers and corn ethanol and 2.4 billion gal- ranchers cope with on a daily balons of biodiesel are required to sis. At the same time, many farmbe blended into transportation ers and ranchers don't have acfuel. However, EPA has waived cess to assistance when they need that requirement for 85 oil refin- help; 60% of rural Americans live eries over the past three years, a in areas with mental health prorate quadruple that of the previ- fessional shortages, while many ous administration. As a result, others lack broadband access or the amount of corn ethanol and health insurance. The Washingbiodiesel in the transportation ton Corner can also be found at www.nfu.org/corner. 11
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FALL ECONOMOICS CONFERENCE SHEDS LIGHT ON IMPACT OF HUTTERITE COLONIES ON THE MONTANA ECONOMY
BY JUSTIN LOCH M E M B E R S H I P D I R E C TO R
At the annual MSU-Bozeman Celebrate Agriculture weekend, I attended the fall economics conference. This was a day filled with reports and synopsis of the current and future markets in agriculture. One workshop however really caught my interest. MSU under the direction of Joel Schumacher –MSU Department of Animal and Range Science were asked to help conduct a study that was titled
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Economic Impact of Hutterite Communities in Montana.
North Central and South Central saw the most impact to employment. Results from the study showed economic contributions to In 2017 it was reported that there were 53 Montana businesses and organizations. The colonies in Montana totaling more than 5,300 Montana economy saw $365 million dollars in members. Montana predominantly has two annual revenues from Hutterite colonies. branches of Hutterites some are Dariusleut and most are Lehrerleut. For the study the The complete results of the study are now Lehreleut colonies submitted their financial available to the public at www.bber.umt.edu/ information which made up 4,318 members pubs/econ/hutteriteEconContributions2019. in 2017. Cash receipt percentages for agricul- pdf. I would encourage all who are interested tural enterprises in the Lehrerleut colonies in learning more to check out the whole study were as follows: as it was just recently released. Hutterites and Grain 38.5% their colonies do have a significant impact on Hogs 28.6% the economy of Montana. Especially in ruEggs 13.3% ral areas where they pay some of the highest Dairy 9.4% property taxes due to their livestock buildCattle 7.6% ings, shops and homes. In closing, I found Sheep/Wool 1.4% the study on the Economic Impact of HutHay 0.4% terite Colonies in Montana to be somewhat fascinating and I look forward to reading the The receipts show a diverse operation among whole study more in depth. Lehreleut colonies. I would like to thank all of our MFU members Due to the population, size and diversity of who attended our annual convention. It’s althe Hutterite’s operations, many jobs are cre- ways great to get our members together and ated for the Montana workforce. It was re- help shape our policy and strengthen our orported Hutterites contributed 2,191 off colo- ganization. Most importantly it’s a chance for ny jobs in Montana. These jobs ranged from everyone to catch up and talk about the issues healthcare, retail and market industry, manu- that affect them and celebrate successes over facturing and construction, government, farm the past year. Please know that we at MFU and farm support, and others. value each and every member and look forObviously some parts of Montana felt the ward to serving you throughout the next year. impact of increased employment more than Please join us at upcoming MFU events. others due to location of Hutterite colonies.
UPDATES AT ARROWPEAK LODGE B Y DAV E S N U G G S FAC I L I T I E S D I R E C TO R
The Arrowpeak Lodge is currently going through exciting renovation of the kitchen. The two bedrooms that were located directly off of the kitchen have been remodeled. One bedroom has been converted into a walk-in pantry which will provide over 100 squarefeet of additional storage. The other bedroom now houses refrigerators and freezers. The new kitchen will feature new cabinets, counter-tops, hardware and flooring. In addition, a large, commercial dishwasher with a sprayer, new stainless sinks and a large island will be installed. The kitchen is also getting a plumbing and electrical upgrade. All of these improvements will be completed by May 15, Arrowpeak Lodge in the Highwood Mountains 2020 just in time for the 2020 season. 12
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TESTER WORKING TO BRING COOL BACK TO WASHINGTON & BOOST AMERICAN AGRICULTURE
B Y S A R A H F E L D M A N & ROY LOEWENSTEIN
(U.S. Senate) – Aiming to Make COOL Cool Again and boost Montana’s agricultural producers, U.S. Senator Jon Tester today introduced a Senate resolution to support reinstating country of origin labeling for beef and pork. Country of origin labeling, or COOL, are laws and regulations that require retailers to inform customers what country certain commodities originated in, giving shoppers more information and allowing producers to compete in a more transparent marketplace.“Our farmers and ranchers produce the best agricultural products in the world,” Tester said. “Consumers want to buy those American-made products, and country of origin labeling lets producers show their product was raised right here in America—and ensures folks can make informed choices about the food they buy.”
made beef and pork products— a decision Tester opposed. That decision has been blamed for tumbling prices and forces American producers to compete with foreign meat without any way of showing where their product came from.Montana agricultural groups cheered Tester’s resolution, and Walter Schweitzer, President of the Montana Farmers Union, said he appreciated Tester’s collaborative approach to tackling the issue.“Montana Farmers Union, in collaboration with National Farmers Union, led the fight for COOL. We are pleased to see the commitment on the part of Senator Tester to introduce this resolution,” Schweitzer said. “Consumers deserve to know where their food comes from and they don't appreciate being misled on the origin of beef and pork, which in turn not only hurts the consumer, but also producers. Montana family farmers received historically high prices for all of our commodities while COOL was enforced and yet consumers are paying more for a steak today than when we had COOL. Meanwhile meat packers are making record profits today at the expense of family farms and the consumer.”
NOVEMBER 2019
COOL as part of the NAFTA/ USMCA renegotiation,” said Jan McDonald of the Montana Cattlemen’s Association. “Passage of this resolution will make it clear that Congress supports US beef and pork producers and understands that consumers have the right to know and choose what they purchase." “Consumers are increasingly seeking out more information on the products they choose to feed their families,” said Leo McDonnell, Director Emeritus of the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association. “The U.S. produces the highest quality, safest, and most eco-conscious beef in the world. U.S. cattle producers deserve the opportunity to showcase their product in the retail marketplace. We’re incredibly grateful for Senator Jon Tester continuing to champion Truth in Labeling efforts through the introduction of this resolution. We ask other Senators will follow his lead and choose to stand with American consumers and ranching families.”
“Family Farm Action strongly supports Senator Tester's resolution for the Country of Origin Labeling on beef and pork,” said Jake Davis, National Policy DiThe importance of a country-of- rector for Family Farm Action. origin labeling (COOL) for beef “This simple but powerful action cannot be overstated,” said Bill provides fairness for American Bullard, CEO of R-CALF USA. family farmers and transparency “It is the only tool available to for American consumers. FarmU.S. cattle farmers and ranch- ers and ranchers deserve a level ers to enable them to effectively playing field and consumers decompete against the growing tide serve the choice to buy United of cheaper, undifferentiated beef States born, raised and processed imports in the U.S. marketplace. meat.” R-CALF USA appreciates Senator Tester’s leadership in demonstrat- “Country-of-Origin Labeling suping the importance of establish- ports our rural livelihoods and Ag COOL regulations are currently ing a national system so hard- families,” said Jeanie Alderson, a in effect for several products, working American cattle farmers rancher from Birney, Mont. and a including chicken, lamb, goat, and ranchers can distinguish their member of the Northern Plains farm-raised and wild caught fish superior beef products in the U.S. Resource Council. “When we had and shellfish, and most nuts. But marketplace.” COOL in 2014, we saw hundreds in 2015, Congress repealed the of thousands of dollars going law requiring the labels for beef "Montana Cattlemen’s Asso- into rural communities across and pork, reducing the competi- ciation is very disappointed that Montana and bolstering our local tive advantage for American- President Trump did not reinstate economies as a result of higher 1133
prices. Senator Tester’s resolution works to bring back COOL to support our country’s hard working ranchers. Consumers deserve the right to know where their meat comes from, and ranchers deserve the right to an honest market.”
A MESSAGE FROM SENATOR DAINES
In early October, I joined President Trump at the White House to celebrate the official signing of the historic U.S. Japan Trade Deal. This deal will help level the playing field in Japan’s critical market. This deal is a huge win for Montana farmers and ranchers, and one that will benefit Montana ag for generations to come. As we celebrate this victory, I remain focused on ensuring the voice of Montana ag continues to have a seat at the table as President Trump works towards a trade agreement with China.With 95% of the world’s population outside our borders, Montana producers need access to the global market. Ag is the number one driver of our economy and our products are in high demand both in across the world. As our farmers navigate the changing prices with our cattle or our wheat, and the tough weather, I will fight to ensure our farmers have the resources they need to overcome these troubling obstacles and hard times. It is my honor to serve you and all the farmers and ranchers of Big Sky Country.
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ROUNDS,THUNE PUSH TO KEEP FOREIGN BEEF FROM RECEIVING “PRODUCT OF THE U.S.A.” LABEL
NOVEMBER 2019
at a processing plant in the U.S. Additionally, Thune and Rounds wrote to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to offer support for administrative changes to the FSIS beef labeling requirements.
WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and John Thune (R-S.D.) today took steps to keep beef born, raised and slaughtered in foreign countries from receiving a “Product of the U.S.A.” label. The U.S. Beef Integrity Act would make certain that the “Product of the U.S.A.” label only goes to beef and beef products exclusively derived from one or more animals born, raised and slaughtered in the United States.
“Our cattle producers offer some of the highest-quality beef in the world,” said Rounds. “Consumers deserve to know where their food is coming from. When South Dakota families purchase beef labeled ‘Product of the U.S.A.,’ they should know with certainty that it is coming from one of our top-quality producers. Today’s beef labeling rules are misleading and allow beef and beef products from cattle born, raised and slaughtered outside of the Currently, the USDA’s Food Safety and In- U.S. to be labeled as U.S. beef. This must be spection Service (FSIS) does not require fixed for both consumers and our hardworkthat beef be born, raised and slaughtered in ing producers.” the U.S. in order to carry a “Product of the U.S.A.” label. This loophole allows beef from “For South Dakota ranchers, ‘Product of the livestock born and raised in foreign countries U.S.A’ is far more than a label. It’s a sense of to be labeled “Product of the U.S.A.” as long pride, and it represents a way of life,” said as the beef undergoes additional processing Thune. “This legislation is straightforward
and common sense, two qualities that are often lacking in Washington and are made up for by South Dakotans and their hardworking spirit. It’s with our ranchers and agriculture community in mind that I’m proud to support this bill to give consumers more accurate information about what’s on the grocery store shelf and help showcase America’s beef products – the best in the world – as clearly and as proudly as possible.”
MEMBER NEWS: Congratulations to Moore’s Mamie Hertel as the first female from Montana to become a national FFA officer! Mamie is the granddaughter of long-time members Karl and Marion Hertel. We wish Mamie all the best on her journey!
Congratulations to Jeff & Katie Bangs Jeff and Katie welcomed Thomas John Bangs on 10/24 at 4:11 p.m. Thomas John weighed 8 lbs, 7 oz. and is doing well! We wish you all the best!
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NOVEMBER 2019
EDUCATION NEWS: At the Regional Farmers Union Education Directors Leaders Conference this past September at Montana Farmers Union Arrowpeak Camp I had the greatest opportunity to meet some very dedicated leaders with great minds. Thank you for sharing your ideas and stories of success. In addition, I would like to thank you for extending the opportunity to work with Matt Shaver, Cathy Statz and Emma Lindberg. Our team will be working together on new lesson plans that will be available nationally for our communities agriculture students. Matt Shaver is not new at this and recently was involved in writing lessons that were implemented at NFU’s leadership Camp. Emma was noted as saying: “I am definitely interested in starting this work up again and would love to get the ball rolling. We would like the focus of this year’s curriculum to be the environment, which would include renewable energy. We also want to have the following subtopics covered within the curriculum. For example, what is the connection between the environment and cooperatives, civic engagement, Farmers Union history and agriculture. Just wait and see what we come up with,”said Emma.
BY VICKY JO REEVES E D U C AT I O N & P R O G R A M A S S I S TA N T
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Since 1915
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