Farming in the Heartland Fall 2016

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 32

Farming 16 Ford F-150

16 Ford F-350

in the

HEARTLAND An Agricultural, Farming & Rural Development Supplement Covering Freeborn County, Mower County & Surrounding Areas

Fall 2016

16 Ram 2500 16 Nissan Titan

We have roots in this land too For decades, Bremer has been committed to agricultural banking. From loans, cash management and insurance, to retirement, estate and succession planning, we’re here to help farmers and farm businesses grow with imaginative and resourceful solutions. To find out how we can help you, call or stop in today.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 2

R E S T O R E R E P L A C E

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 31

R E F R E S H

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 30

Shopper

The

and

Freeborn County

Shopper The Mower County

Would like to remind all our area farmers to be alert to the dangers and practice farm safety this season!

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 3

Overhead Power Lines

Entanglement with overhead power lines and farm equipment is one of the most common electrical hazards on the farm. Many types of farm equipment can come in contact with overhead power lines. Tractors with front-end loaders, portable grain augers, fold-up planters, dump truck beds and sprayer booms are all examples of equipment that can easily get caught in overhead power lines.

Recommendations: • LOOK UP! before moving or transporting equipment especially around buildings, grain bins or entrance/exiting fields and farms.

• Power lines should be at least 18 feet above the highest point of grain bin where portable augers or other portable filling equipment is used.

• Considering burying electric lines to reduce the risk of accidental contact.

• Remember some equipment during transportation is actually taller than when in use.

• Another thing you need to be careful of is bumping into the guy wires on electrical poles. This will cause sagging in the overhead lines and will make entanglement more likely.

• Always stay alert and never take unnecessary risks.

If your equipment becomes entangled in power lines, stay in the tractor or truck unless the tractor or truck starts on fire.

Jump as far from the tractor as possible but land on both feet.

Then hop with feet together to get to safety!

If on fire, contact 911…if you are staying in the vehicle, contact FMCS Operations at 800-734-6421.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 4

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 29

The Ongoing Discussion of Soil Health

Farming in the 1800’s By John Haymond, Executive Director, Mower County Historical Society Before the American Civil War, the huge expanse of the Midwestern prairie was often referred to as “the Great American Desert.” It was not called that because anyone actually believed it was a real desert, but because the agricultural technology of the time had not yet developed the equipment necessary to effectively turn the tough prairie sod into productive farms.

For thousands of years, plow design had followed more or less the same lines, regardless of whether the draft animals in use were horses, oxen, or water buffalo. The main digging element of the plow, called the moldboard, was usually made of wood which wore out quickly.

The addition of metal edges to the moldboard lengthened the life of a plow, but it wasn’t until moldboards were made entirely of metal that a truly effective farming plow came into common use.

As settlers pressed farther west in America and began farming their

homesteads, the standard plows that had worked well enough back east proved to be inadequate to the harder work of cutting the prairie. Two innovations in plow design changed that dynamic, and opened up the vast agricultural potential of the frontier.

The first was the addition of a coulter to the standard plow design. The coulter was essentially a small blade mounted forward of the moldboard, and it acted as a first cut to open up the tough layer of grass and roots for the plow, which could then dig deep and turn up a good furrow.

The second improvement was in the metal of the plowshare itself. Standard plows of the early 1800s were made of cast iron, and the sticky soil of the prairie constantly stuck to the iron as a farmer worked, requiring time-consuming pauses to clean the blade. In 1838 an Illinois blacksmith named John Deere designed and built the first plow with a polished

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steel share, to which he added a few other touches that resulted in a self-scouring plow. Working with this improved implement, a farmer could plow more ground in a single day than ever before. Deere’s invention was an instant commercial success – by 1841, he was making nearly 100 plows a year, and was selling every plow he could make.

Oxen were widely used as the primary draft animals in the early days of American farming, and that was true in Minnesota as elsewhere in the country. Oxen were stolid, hard-working, and strong, but they were slow. A farmer working a 40-acre field would walk nearly 330 miles in the course of plowing that field, and it would take a double yoke of oxen at least 25 10-hour days to complete the job.

Horses were faster. They could be skittish, cost more to feed, and tired out quicker than oxen, but a double team of horses working that same 40-acre

field could do the job in 16 10-hour days, and that meant a farmer could plow more acreage in the planting John Haymond season than he could before. The downside, if there was one, was that while older oxen could be butchered for beef, no one was very keen on the idea of eating their retired horses.

Another edition of Farming in the Heartland means another article from the Freeborn Area Soil Health Team promoting healthy soil and clean water through the use of cover crops.

That’s right folks, the Soil Health Team nor the talk of cover crops are going away any time soon. In fact, both are growing in popularity! In the month of August, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) released the

The Freeborn Area Soil Health Team is not going away anytime soon either. By the years end, the local team will have held 6 educational events for farmers right here in Freeborn County.

During these 6 events, over 300 participants will have attended. These 6 events promote farmer to farmer

When the walk-behind plow was eventually replaced by the sulky plow, upon which the farmer could ride, the rate of work increased again. Where a walk-behind plow was essentially limited to two acres per day, a sulky plow raised the potential rate of work to as much as seven acres a day.

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results from their 2016 Cover Crop Survey. With over 2000 participants from across the nation the data told a story of enthusiasm and rising yields. The 2016 results noted that “acreage planted to cover crops continued its steady rise among survey participants… and is projected to grow in 2016”. SARE also stated that “Multi-year data shows the yield boost increases as cover crops are planted year after year, a revelation that points to an appealing long-term benefit of the conservation practice”. The full report is available online at www.sare.org/covercropsurvey.

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The Soil Health Team’s next event will be their 3 rd annual Winter Conference. It is being held January 26th at Wedgewood Cove in Albert Lea. The day will start at 10am and end at 2:30pm.

Featured speakers are Sarah Carlson and Jerry Ackermann. Carlson a Cover Crop Research Coordinator for Practical Farmers of Iowa and Ackermann a Strip Till farmer near Worthington MN have spoken at National conferences to educate farmers on improving the health of their soil and the health of their crops. The event will end with a presentation by the Soil Health Team themselves on data that they have collected right here in Freeborn County. Please RSVP to this event by January 19th for meal count. Cost of event will be $20 (cash or check) at the door.

3-4 CEU’s will be available in the Soil and Water category for this event.

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learning with the end goal of healthier soils and cleaner water for our community. Want to learn more about the team, or want to attend an event? How about learn how to make your poor soil good and your good soil better? Visit the Freeborn County NRCS/SWCD/FSA office to learn more about the team and sign up for our next event!

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 28

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 5

October is the Official Start of the New 4-H Year Past 4-H’ers as well as NEW youth who are interested in joining 4-H can get enrolled anytime after September 15th for this next year. Here are a few frequently asked questions and answers about 4-H! Who can participate in 4-H? 4-H serves youth in grades kindergarten through one year past high school from all backgrounds and interests. 4-H offers membership without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, disability, or handicap. To join, contact your local county Extension office.

How can I participate in 4-H? As a Cloverbud - Cloverbuds is an age appropriate, non-competitive experience for youth grades K-2. Cloverbuds join a local 4-H Club and participate with their club in their activities also. There are separate county led activity days held bi-monthly that youth get to meet new friends, work with mentors, make projects, play games and have healthy snacks.

Join a local 4-H club — 4-H clubs are groups of youth who meet regularly to work on 4-H projects, perform community service, develop leadership skills and learn to work together. Guided by one or more adult volunteers, a club can be any size, from a small group of neighborhood kids to a large group from a school or county. Visit a club meeting in your area before joining and see what 4-H has to offer! There are 12 4-H Clubs in Freeborn County!

Participate in 4-H in school OR afterschool

at various elementary schools in our county!

Participate in 4-H Adventures — 4-H Adventures are one-time events where youth can participate in a 4-H project or activity.

You need not be enrolled in 4-H to participate. These activities may include 4-H overnight camp, project nights, or Summer or Winter Leadership outings.

What can I do in 4-H? If you’re enrolled in a 4-H club, 4-H has something for you! There are many 4-H project areas from Robotics to Shop to Foods to Photography to Crafts and Fine Arts plus all of our animal projects. If you don’t see a project that interests you, just ask! We can help you create your own project.

How do I enroll in a club?

You may enroll online at mn.4honline.com OR by completing paper forms at the local Extension Office.

How much does it cost to participate in 4-H? 4-H is a publicly funded program of University of Minnesota Extension and Freeborn County. Most clubs charge a nominal fee of $5-$10 per 4-Her per year. This helps provide funds for club events as well as insurance for the 4-H’ers when they are at a 4-H sponsored event.

Some events will have additional costs such as overnight camps or a project training night. Scholarships are ALWAYS available and provided for any youth.

We have your back.

Project costs vary, and many don’t require a big investment.

For example, members enrolled in crafts might use supplies from around the house to practice the skills they are learning and, therefore, would have no additional expenses. 4-H’ers who buy and keep a saddle horse, however, might have to make a large investment.

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All adults who work with 4-H youth must complete the Volunteer Selection Process, including a criminal history check. Contact the Freeborn County Extension Office at 377-5660 for more information about how you can become a 4-H volunteer!

For more information about 4-H or how to join, please contact the Freeborn County Extension Office at 377-5660 OR come and visit us at the Freeborn County Courthouse!

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How can I volunteer for 4-H? Capable, caring adult volunteers are always needed to help lead and assist with 4-H activities. Orientation and training is provided, so no previous experience is necessary. 4-H volunteers are supported by a professional staff, including 4-H Program Coordinators and 4-H Extension Educators.

There are also various 4-H support and advisory groups made up of interested adult volunteers.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 6

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 27

Sharon M. Danes, Extension Specialist and Professor - Family Social Science

Speak Carefully

Be specific. Listeners are not mind readers. Define the problem or name the feeling. Other’s likely won’t know what we want or feel if we leave them guessing.

Stay focused. Discuss only the issue at hand. Getting off the track and bringing up old issues is confusing and irritating.

Don’t say things you don’t mean and threaten things you won’t carry out.

Say less. Silence is helpful when emotions are strong, when we feel stressed, or when we are tired. Often, during those times, we say things we do not mean. We tend to exaggerate or escalate the situation to magnitudes that are not real.

Say it with tact. Ban blaming. Keep comments descriptive rather than critical, blaming, or all-knowing. Avoid criticism and sarcasm. “I” statements are less threatening to the listener.

Listen Attentively

Listen with empathy. Put yourself in the speaker’s shoes. Try to understand their perspective. You don’t have to agree with the other point of view to understand or empathize with it.

Listen without interrupting. Sometimes it’s necessary to stop talking to hear all of the words. Eliminate both mental and physical distractions. Concentrate on the words and pay attention to the nonverbal gestures.

Receive criticism successfully. Put your shields up. Act like a coffee filter and strain out the emotional grounds — like

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How we talk and how we listen are always important, but when the pressure is on, our communication styles become even more important. During stressful times, it’s easy to experience misunderstandings that sometimes result in adding more stress to the situation. At times like this, it’s helpful to reexamine how we communicate.

Whether we are communicating with lenders, creditors, or family members, the three principles for effective communication remain the same: 1. Speak carefully.

2. Listen attentively.

3. Respond accurately.

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fear or anger — from the facts.

Accept what is said without giving advice. There are times when we believe the speaker is wrong, and we want to tell them. It would feel so good to tell them what to do. However, even when the advice is eventually followed, the timing is important. It’s best to listen, to support, and to let the feelings be heard before offering any advice.

Speak Carefully

Get all the facts. Listen carefully until you understand what is being said. Ask the speaker to clarify anything that you don’t understand. But don’t ask too many questions — that can be distracting.

Check your interpretations. The goal of communication is to understand.

Listeners interpret what is being said, so check with the speaker to be sure that what you heard is what the speaker meant. Ask the speaker if your perspective is accurate. For example, you can say “Do I understand you to mean...?” or “Did you say...?”

Be honest. Stay honest as you say, “I

understand why you feel that way.”

Acknowledging and accepting the speaker’s feelings does not mean that you agree with them.

Listen to yourself. Make a conscious effort to hear how you speak. Do you have a positive or negative attitude?

What is your tone of voice? A steady stream of snappy responses puts others on the defensive.

Although we may not always get what we want, it’s important to make our wishes known so we don’t build up resentment. Listening to understand others’ needs and wants with sensitivity demonstrates a caring attitude. When everyone involved in the communication process speaks and listens carefully, it’s easier to share perceptions and feelings while moving toward understanding one another.

Source Turner, L. H. & West, R. W. (2014). The SAGE Handbook of Family Communication.

Los Angeles, CA: Sage Publications, Inc.

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The Many Different Uses of Pumpkin Autumn is the season when pumpkins are ripe for the picking, and thousands of people flock to local farms and roadside vendors to select perfect pumpkins. Many pumpkins are turned into decorative jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween, only to be tossed in the trash come November 1. That could be because many people are unaware of the various ways they can put pumpkins to good use. Pumpkins are gourds and members of the squash family and have been grown and used for thousands of years. Evidence suggests that pumpkins date back to 7000 B.C., possibly originating in Mexico. Today they are widely used for decorating around Halloween, but there are many other things that can be done with pumpkins. ~ Create a food vessel. Pumpkins can be transformed into bowls to hold soup, punch, fruit, or even dips. Make sure the pumpkin has been cleaned well of its

~ Make pumpkin puree. Puree from a pumpkin can be used in all types of recipes, from soups to baked goods. The puree also can replace the oil in cake recipes. Cut the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and stringy membranes. Then place it cut-side-down in a pan with a little water in the bottom. Bake at 350 F for around 90 minutes. The flesh will become tender and easily removable.

Blend the resulting puree in a food processor and reserve flesh for recipes. Some pumpkins are sweeter or better to use as part of recipes. Check the variety you’re purchasing. ~ Whip up a facial. Use some pumpkin puree

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pulp and seeds, as well as the stringy flesh that is inside. Rub the inside walls of the pumpkin with oil to keep them from drying out and caving in, then fill with your food of choice.

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with a little brown sugar and a dash of milk to create a vitamin-rich facial mask. ~ Get illuminated.

Turn hollowed-out mini pumpkins into candles. Melt soy wax, beeswax or the gel type of candle wax that can be found at most craft stores.

Add your favorite scent and place a wick into the bottom of the pumpkin.

Then pour the wax into hallowed-out space and allow it to harden. Try the same thing with bumpy and multicolored gourds for added decorating appeal. ~ Turn the pumpkin into a flower pot.

Fill a hollow pumpkin with soil. You may not have to worry about scraping the pumpkin completely clean because the pulp can be used to help fertilize the potting soil. Plant your favorite fall flowers into the festive and earthfriendly flower pot. When the pumpkin shows signs of rotting, simply put the whole thing into a traditional flower pot or bury it directly in the ground. ~ Make pumpkin stock. While vegetable or meat-based stocks may be

the standards, pumpkin can be used to make stock as well. Clean out the seeds from the stringy guts of the pumpkin and put the guts into a pot filled with water. Add celery, carrots or any other aromatic vegetables for extra flavor.

Allow to boil for at least 30 minutes.

The stock is ready when it begins to change color. Strain and reserve the stock for use in a variety of recipes. ~ Add to compost bins. Pumpkins are rich in zinc, vitamin A and vitamin C, among other nutrients. You can add the discarded pumpkins to your backyard compost bins to further replenish the soil. ~ Turn into a billowing cauldron.

Instead of a standard jack-o’-lantern, put a glass jar into the carved pumpkin, add dish soap and hot water to the jar and then put in a piece of dry ice.

Bubbles and smoke will pour out of the pumpkin to create a spooktacular effect.

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 26

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 7

Livestock and the Environment: MPCA Feedlot Program Overview In Minnesota there are about 18,000 feedlots in operation, according to the 2010-2014 registration period. They range in size from small farms to large-scale commercial livestock operations. Agriculture including livestock comprises a major portion of the state’s economy. Many organizations and programs work with livestock producers to ensure that we continue to have a healthy livestock industry and a healthy natural environment. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) regulates the collection, transportation, storage, processing and disposal of animal manure and other livestock operation wastes. The MPCA Feedlot Program implements rules governing these activities, and provides assistance to counties and the livestock industry. The feedlot rules apply to most aspects of livestock management including the location, design, construction, operation and management of feedlots and manure handling facilities. The MPCA feedlot

staff are located in St. Paul and six regional offices: Brainerd, Detroit Lakes, Mankato, Marshall, Rochester, and Willmar. They work in the areas of land application of manure, permitting, data management, technical assistance, and compliance with feedlot rules. On the web: www.pca.state. mn.us/zihy6a1 Training and technical assistance The MPCA provides training opportunities and assistance to counties and livestock producers. County feedlot officers receive inspection and permitting training, covering all aspects of the program. MPCA technical staff conduct workshops and presentations for county staff and producer groups.

Contacts For more information about the Feedlot Program contact Forrest Peterson at (320) 441-6972.

More information is also available on the MPCA website at www.pca.state. mn.us/hot/feedlots.html.

For more information Producer organizations also provide environmen-

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tal management information to their members. Many dairies have qualified for the Environmental Quality Assurance designation through the Minnesota Milk Producers Association.

The following Web sites are good information sources for feedlots and manure management: • Manure and Odor Education Research – University of Minnesota Extension: www.manure.umn.edu/ • Minnesota Department of Agriculture: www.mda.state.mn.us/animals. aspx • National Agriculture Compliance Assistance Center: www.epa.gov/oecaagct/anafocom.html Summary of Feedlot Registrations by Size in Freeborn County Less than 300 AU - 333 300-999 AU- 69 1000 or more AU - 18 Total Feedlots - 420 Number of Registered Animals in Freeborn Co Beef Cattle: Calf - 2,705

Cow and Calf pair - 2476 Feeder Cattle or Heifer - 6379 Slaughter or Stock - 6987 Dairy Cattle: Calf - 2492 Heifer - 1843 Mature (over 1000 lbs) - 1508 Mature (under 1000 lbs) - 155 Chickens/Broilers: 5 lbs and over- 877 under 5 lbs- 20465 Chickens/Layers 5 lbs and over- 215 under 5 lbs- 128 Swine: 55-300 lbs- 220,121 over 300 lbs- 24.349 under 55 lbs- 83.338 Sheep or lambs: 2600 Turkey: 5 lbs and over - 82.7 Duck: 288 Elk: 46 Goat: 152 Horses: 418

Farm Loan Program Assistance Article submitted by Adam J Gritz, USDA Farm Service Agency, Fillmore County Farm Loan Manager Farm Service Agency Farm Loan Program assistance is available to eligible applicants who • Are unable to obtain conventional credit • Will be the owner or renter of a not larger than family sized farm • Have sufficient training and/or experience in managing and operating a farm • Are citizens or lawfully admitted aliens • Show repayment ability for the requested loan • Show sufficient security for the requested loan Loans are available for machinery, livestock, crop operating and real estate purposes. Now is the time to discuss 2016/2017 credit needs with your current lender. If Farm Service Agency assistance may be required, contact the Farm Service Agency as soon as possible to be ready for the 2017 operating cycle.

Other eligibility requirements apply to certain loan types. Contact the Farm Service Agency for a full discussion of your circumstances to determine if you may be eligible for loan assistance. To find your nearest office location, please visit http://offices.usda.gov.

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance

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Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: 1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; 2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or 3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Re-Elect

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SINCE ELECTED, PEGGY HAS...

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Endorsed by the

3 Co-authored a bill that prevented DNR overreach Minnesota 3 Co-authored a bill and voted for tax relief on ag land Farm Bureau 3 Supported programs to combat livestock disease 3 Continues to work for common sense reductions in regulations

Peggy knows how important agriculture is to our area!

Re-Elect

PEGGY

RE-ELECT

FOR

BENNETT HOUSE 27A

People before politics.

104 Main Street, Rose Creek

program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs).

Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Visit www.Bennett4House.com to learn more about Peggy and her positions!

PEGGY BENNETT

NOVEMBER 8TH! She will continue to be a strong voice for Minnesota farmers!

Prepared and paid for by the Bennett for MN House 27A committee • PO Box 308 • Albert Lea, MN 56007

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 8

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 25

“The Power of Endowment” An Endowment Fund at Work

An endowment is established by a donor who makes a gift to create a lasting legacy in support of the community or a specific cause.

These funds are invested so that the endowment continues to grow forever.

A portion of this endowment is used annually, as a grant, to support the cause specified by the donor.

remains strong at over $60,000, allowing for continued good work to be done for the ARC of Mower County.

In memory of her husband, Alice and her children established the Qual Family Memorial Fund with a gift of $18,000 for the eternal care of programming opportunities at the ARC.

Donors make a difference with the gifts they provide for charitable funds. These funds benefit the community forever and create lasting legacies. We invite you to join in giving back, getting connected and building a better community.

Over the past 5 years, the Qual Family Memorial Fund has awarded over $8,000 in grants to support various activities at the ARC of Mower County.

Today, the fund balance

Executive Director, Austin Area Foundation

Austin Area Foundation 110 1st Ave SE, Suite 6, Austin

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(1) Offer valid from August 3, 2016, through October 28, 2016. Offer on the purchase of any new X700 Signature Series and Z355E ZTrak model. Get $700 off X700 Signature Series and $200 off Z355E Residential ZTrak Mower.

The $700 off X700 Signature Series and $200 off Z355E Residential ZTrak Mower cannot be used in addition to the 2016 Turf Drive Green $250 coupon offer. (2) Term limited to years or hours used, whichever comes first, and varies by model. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at JohnDeere. com/Warranty or JohnDeere.ca/TUWarranty for details. John Deere’s green and yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol and JOHN DEERE are trademarks of Deere & Company. *The engine horsepower and torque information are provided by the engine manufacturer to be used for comparison purposes only. Actual operating horsepower and torque will be less. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s website for additional information.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 24

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 9

USDA to Provide Financing Option for Farmers Article submitted by Kirk W Phelps, Mower County Executive Director, USDA Farm Service Agency U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide a new financing option to help farmers purchase portable storage and handling equipment. Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced changes to the Farm Storage Facility Loan (FSFL) program. The loans, which now include a smaller microloan option with lower down payments, are designed to help producers, including new, small and midsized producers, grow their businesses and markets. The loans are also now available for used and portable grain handling equipment.

The program offers a new “microloan� option, which allows applicants seeking less than $50,000 to qualify for a reduced down payment of five percent and no requirement to provide three years of production history. Farms and ranches of all sizes are eligible. The

microloan option is expected to be of particular benefit to smaller farms and ranches, and specialty crop producers who may not have access to commercial storage or on-farm storage after harvest.

These producers can invest in equipment like conveyers, scales or refrigeration units and trucks that can store commodities before delivering them to markets.

Producers do not need to demonstrate the lack of commercial credit availability to apply.

Earlier this year, FSA significantly expanded the list of commodities eligible for Farm Storage Facility Loan. Eligible commodities now include aquaculture; floriculture; fruits (including nuts) and vegetables; corn, grain sorghum, rice, oilseeds, oats, wheat, triticale, spelt, buckwheat, lentils, chickpeas, dry peas sugar, peanuts, barley, rye, hay, honey, hops,

maple sap, unprocessed meat and poultry, eggs, milk, cheese, butter, yogurt and renewable biomass. FSFL microloans can also be used to finance wash and pack equipment used Kirk Phelps post-harvest, before a commodity is placed in cold storage.

To learn more about Farm Storage Facility Loans, visit www.fsa.usda.gov/ pricesupport or contact a local FSA county office. To find your local FSA county office, visit http://offices.usda.gov/.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 10

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 23

SDSU Ag Engineering Department Improves Students’ Hands-On Learning

Caramelized Spicy Pumpkin Seeds

Ingredients 3 tablespoons white sugar 1/4 teaspoon cumin 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1 pinch cayenne pepper

IN THE RAPIDLY EVOLVING realm of precision agriculture, hands-on experience is critical for students as they prepare for future careers in the industry. SDSU students are gaining that experience through eight Kubota utility vehicles outfitted with auto-steering systems – and other precision ag bells and whistles.

2 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds, washed and dried Cooking spray 2 teaspoons salt, or to taste 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoons white sugar

Nic Uilk, an instructor in the Department

Directions Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, stir together 3 tablespoons of sugar, the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne pepper, and set aside.

Place the pumpkin seeds on the prepared baking sheet, spray them with cooking spray, and sprinkle with salt to taste. Bake the seeds in the preheated oven until lightly golden, 20 to 25 minutes.

Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, and stir in the toasted pumpkin seeds along with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook and stir the seeds until the sugar forms a coating on the seeds, 2 to 3 minutes.

Stir the caramelized seeds into the bowl of sugar-spice mixture, toss to coat, and let cool.

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes

Dirk Seeger

of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, notes that it is a major coup for SDSU to be able to offer these unique vehicles for students to work with. “No other university has eight,” says Uilk.

The Kubotas were added to the SDSU program in October 2015. SDSU faculty worked with Sioux Falls-based Raven Industries to install auto-steering systems on them to allow students to gain

College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences

“These pumpkin seeds are both sweet and spicy at the same time.They have much more flavor than any other pumpkin seeds.”

“Voted

#1 for Out-of-State Students by College Magazine” Departments Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering Animal Science Biology & Microbiology Dairy & Food Science Department Economics Natural Resource Management Agronomy, Horticulture & Plant Science Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences

Licensed in Minnesota

Cell 507-402-2656 www.ronholtanrealty.com • E-Mail seeger_d@yahoo.com

MLS

201 S. Washington • Albert Lea, MN • Office 507-377-3174

BEHR BUYS OLD FARM MACHINERY & OTHER SCRAP METAL • Plows • Balers • Pumps • Harvesters

• Tractors • Rakes • Cultivators • Grain Augers

• Irrigation Equip • Trailers • Disk Mowers • Tillage Equip

Tubs and Roll-Offs Available

2275 Dale Ave, Riceville, IA 641-329-5356 www.BehrIM.com/Riceville

Farmers Feed the World 1-507-438-7857

rep.jeanne.poppe@house.mn Paid for by the POPPE for the People committee.

experience during labs. Uilk explains that previously an auto-steer tractor would be borrowed from a dealership and demonstrated during lab time. Now, with eight utility vehicles in the department, a lab with 16 students means two students share a vehicle and gain ample experience in the driver’s seat.

Through support from other equipment and precision ag companies, the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department has also acquired three two-row planters to pull behind the Kubota utility vehicles and continues to work with other farm equipment manufacturers to obtain additional North American planter brands. Plans are in the works to add more planting equipment and four sprayer units by the Fall 2016 semester.

Uilk notes, “Troubleshooting any precision ag equipment and systems really requires hands-on experience.

Having this equipment in our department is providing SDSU students that critical experience.”

With farm ground located just one mile from campus, Uilk says students are given opportunities during lab time to gain skills with auto-steering set-up, calibration and adjustment, as well as driving operation.

Austin Carlson, a 2016 SDSU graduate

For more information about the college, Visit: www.sdstate.edu/abs/ Call: 605-688-5133 Email: sdsu.academic.programs@sdstate.edu For more information about admissions Email: sdsu.admissions@sdstate.edu Phone: 1-800-952-3541

from Garretson, SD, with a degree in Agriculture Systems Technology, is excited for future students attending SDSU who will have the opportunity to work with the equipment. “These vehicles provide the necessary hands-on learning for precision agriculture, electronic controls, electronic communication and diagnostics, and proper machinery setup and maintenance for planting and applicator portions of agriculture.”

Uilk notes that going forward, precision agriculture technology is continually changing, and SDSU will strive to evolve and adapt their equipment and systems as well. He says, “We plan for a continually developing platform to keep the technology current for students.”

Some of the classes the equipment is currently utilized in include Introduction to Precision Agriculture, Farm Machinery Systems Management, Electrical Diagnostics for Farm Machinery, and Emerging Technologies in Agriculture.

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 22

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 11

4 Technologies That Will Usher in the Next Generation Farming

Baked Spaghetti Squash with Beef & Veggies

Joseph Byrum, PhD, MBA, PMP/Strategic Marketing Executive in Global Product Development and Head of Soybean Seeds Product Development at Syngenta.

Farmers increasingly look toward scientific and technological collaboration and innovation to help them grow food more sustainably. (Credit: Syngenta) Technology that promises to unleash agricultural productivity is here today.

The combination punch of advanced mathematics, automation, advancements in sensor systems and next-generation plant breeding are setting the stage for the next Green Revolution, which is what we need to ensure a sustainable future.

Forget about the days when farmers guessed the best time to plant by looking up a forecast in the Farmer’s Almanac. Next-generation farms are putting science and technology to work to deliver a step change in yields , growing more from less. Here are four of the most exciting developments to watch out for in 2016.

1. The mathematics revolution We’re long overdue for a mathematical revolution in agriculture. The power of advanced mathematics is boosting farm productivity made accessible by the processing capabilities in the latest generation of computing hardware and software. For example, farmers can now know the best time to plant crops by looking at historical data and using simulation models to make informed choices based on current conditions, rather than guesswork. Plant breeders also take advantage of advanced mathematics to identify crop varieties with higher yields and other desirable traits. Finally, the mathematical revolution can help schedule everything from the harvest to loading trucks in a way that ensures

fresh crops make it to the market. In other words, the mathematics revolution brings to the entire agricultural supply chain the power to make informed decisions about using natural resources wisely.

2. The sensing revolution The mathematics revolution can only deliver these benefits if the simulation models are fed high-quality data. That need is being met by advanced sensor technologies that are enabling a real-time understanding of what’s happening on the modern farm, unlike anything seen in the past. The latest equipment takes advantage of networks of smart sensors that monitor the health of the soil along with a plant’s water and nitrogen needs. Knowing precisely how much water is needed helps optimize irrigation, conserve scarce resources and maximize yields. Getting the amount of nitrogen and water right is absolutely

essential to preserving the environment.

For livestock, collars equipped with RFID, biometric sensors and GPS combine to allow real-time monitoring of the location and health of farm animals, en-

suring that ranchers and farmers will be able to respond quickly to any potential problem.

3. Putting it together with automation Automation works hand-in-hand with the advanced mathematics and high-resolution sensing to ensure that planting, harvesting, irrigating and the application of other inputs are performed with absolute precision. Agricultural robots, or agbots, are automating tedious tasks.

Combine hundreds of these energy-efficient agbots and you end up with robotic farm swarms, which work in a network to monitor conditions and harvest crops without the need for human intervention, which means fewer farm injuries and less environmental waste. Such projects are currently in testing stages.

4. Next generation plant breeding for corn Growing plants in a smarter way represents only half of the task agriculture faces. It’s just as important to breed better plants. That’s why perhaps one of the most exciting advances to watch for is the development of corn hybrids selected and adapted to thrive when planted in high densities. This makes possible a step change in yield delivered per acre.

Higher productivity in agriculture isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. The world’s population will grow by two billion in the decades ahead. We can only feed all of these people if we are smart about how we boost yields in our industry. Paying attention to the environment, biodiversity and the needs of smallholder farmers is key to doing this in the right way.

As these advances continue to develop in 2016, it will be clear that the future has never been brighter in agriculture.

Ingredients 1 spaghetti squash, halved and seeded 1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes, drained 1 pound ground beef 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup diced red onion 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 clove garlic, chopped 2 1/4 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese Directions Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Place squash on a baking sheet, and bake 40 minutes, or until tender. Remove from heat, cool, and shred pulp with a fork.

Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until evenly brown. Drain, and mix in the green pepper, red pepper, red onion, and garlic. Continue to cook and stir until vegetables are tender.

Mix the shredded squash and tomatoes into the skillet, and season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook and stir until heated through. Remove skillet from heat, and mix in 2 cups cheese until melted. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish.

Bake 25 minutes in the preheated oven. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, and continue baking 5 minutes, until cheese is melted.

We support & appreciate our local farmers!

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Ashland Farms, St. Ansgar, IA Bill Dix, Janesville, IA Bushel Boy Tomatoes, Owatonna, MN Hilltop Greenhouse & Farm, Ellendale, MN Honeytree Farms, Brownsdale, MN Kittelson Brothers, St. Ansgar, IA La Surena Cooperative, Austin, MN Otranto Hydroponics, Otranto, IA Sweet Corn Jakes, Thompson, IA Trumps Orchards, Faribault, MN White Clover Farms, Paynesville, MN

“Baked spaghetti squash, peppers, and onions are mixed with beef and cheese in this delicious casserole.”

Thank You!!

Squash

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 12

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 21

Potato Sausage Supper

Ingredients 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced (I like to leave the skin on and it saves time) 1 pound smoked kielbasa or Polish sausage, cut into 1/2-inch slices 2 medium onions, sliced and separated into rings 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cheddar cheese soup, undiluted 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of celery soup, undiluted 1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas, thawed

15 YEAR NON-PRORATED WARRANTY

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Joel and Carrie Nelson Jed, Lucy and Mac

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Directions 1. In a greased 5-qt. slow cooker; layer a third of each of the potatoes, sausage, onions and cheese soup. Repeat layers twice.

2. Pour celery soup over the top. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender. Add peas and cook 30 minutes longer.

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 15 min. Cook: 6 hours

This is a very easy, delicious crock pot meal that will satisfy anyone hard at work during harvest season.

You can easily double the recipe for a larger group or it makes great leftovers.

Yield: 6-8 servings.

Austin Village Cooperative Senior Living

“Hello Everyone: I’m Ken Wurzburger.

My wife, Ruth, and I farmed for 32 years three miles north and four miles east of Austin.

When we retired we were looking for a maintenance-free life style in a secure facility where we could meet new friends in a quiet, comfortable atmosphere. We found all that and much more at the Village Cooperative in Austin. If you would like to learn more about the advantages of affordable Co-op living give Norma a call.”

Call Norma for more information | 507-433-1310 2301 10th Street NW, Austin, MN www.villagecooperative.com

STUSSY CONSTRUCTION, INC.

& PAULSON ROCK PRODUCTS From our quarries we produce Agricultural Lime. Our spreader trucks, which haul approximately 15 ton per load, are used to apply the lime to your field.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 20

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 13

LOVERINK DRAINAGE INC. 200 Zuyder Zee Ave S • Hollandale MN 56045 • Complete Septic Service - MPCA Licensed (Inspect—Pump—Design—Install—Maintain) •Electric Eel Service • Professional Backhoe Services • Farm Drainage — Plow, Trench • Wildlife Ponds & Plots • Land sculpting

Lee Loverink Mobile: 507•473•0200 Office: 507•256•4111 15330 580th Avenue Wells, MN 56097

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Mark Nowak Contact me for the following services:

• Financial Analysis • Ratio Analysis • Cash Flow Plans • Ultra Farm Record Keeping • Marketing Strategies

Nowak Ag Consulting

Helping farmers succeed in South Central Minnesota for over 40 years

Heating • Ventilating • Air Conditioning Electrical • Plumbing

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Repairs the Old. Installs the New. Protects Your Assets.

Progress is being made on the Cedar River Watershed District’s nearly $8.4 million, five-year initiative to build projects in area farm fields to improve water quality and reduce flooding.

Construction likely will begin this fall on one of the CRWD’s Capital Improvement Plan’s projects, with earth-moving work starting next year at numerous other CIP sites, said Cody Fox, the district’s project manager.

“There has been a lot of work involved with getting our CIP initiative launched in cooperation with landowners and various government agencies,” Fox said. “We are excited for construction to begin and very grateful for the community support through The Hormel Foundation and the CRWD project levy.”

CIP’s nearly $8.4 million budget is expected to be funded with a $3.2 million grant from The Hormel Foundation as part of the Vision 2020 community improvement initiative; $1 million from CRWD’s project levy; and the remaining $4.2 million from state funding sources, such as bonding bills.

In August, CRWD’s Board of Managers approved a project levy that will help the district fund up to 12

percent of the overall CIP cost. CRWD now is securing a 10-year, low-interest state loan for up $1 million through the Clean Water Partnership program offered by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

CRWD will pay off the loan by using the project levy that will generate an additional $100,000 a year in tax funds for projects. The state loan will operate similar to a line of credit in that CRWD can draw funds when needed and pay 2 percent interest only on the money taken out for projects. The project levy will be reviewed annually by the CRWD board.

CRWD plans to draw $400,000 of the $1 million state loan to use immediately on its CIP initiative to build 25 projects over five years for water-quality improvements and flood reduction along the Cedar River State Water Trail and Dobbins Creek watershed. Most CIP projects are targeted upstream from Austin.

Under the CIP initiative, CRWD is seeking to build 25 priority projects that range in size, complexity and location but generally are related to stormwater detention, ravine stabilization and flood-risk reduction. When entirely completed, the CIP initiative is projected to provide an 8-percent reduction

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Cody Fox, CRWD Project Manager

Culpitt Roofing Inc.

Our company is a 4 generation family business

308 West Main Street, Adams, MN

CRWD Moving Forward with Major Water-Quality Initiative

FULLY INSURED CALL OR WRITE FOR FREE ESTIMATE

NOW OPEN IN AUSTIN

Available in Galvanized, White, 30 Colors

www.culpittroofing.com

Buy All Types of Scrap Metal Hauling is Available (Free for a Limited Time) A luminum Cans BRING IN THIS COUPON AND Roll-Offs Available Receive an Additional 3¢ per lb. www.watsonrecycling.com Watson Recycling • 2700 11th Street NE • Austin (507) 355-8216 • Fax (507) 433-2354 Coupon expires 11-30-16 questions@watsonrecycling.com 2700 11th St NE Austin, MN • M-F 8-5 Closed Sat & Sun

• Vehicle Repair • D.O.T Inspections • Light, Medium and Heavy Duty Truck and Trailer Maintenance • Repair Basic Car Maintenance Repair Welding Welding Services •• Repair • Car Repair

606 West 9th Street Albert Lea, MN 56007 (507) 369-5084

957 West Avenue North West Salem, WI 54669

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Monday-Friday • 8AM–8PM | Saturday & Sunday • On Call

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in flood flows to the Cedar River.

This would be a major step toward the CRWD’s overall mission to reduce peak flood flows by 20 percent through building control structures with berms at hundreds of locations. These structures will detain flood waters, reducing potential damage Cody Fox to downstream crops and buildings as well as decreasing streambank erosion on waterways.

Established in 2007, CRWD’s main focus areas are flooding and water quality. CRWD’s boundaries include about 435 square miles, including portions of Mower, Dodge, Freeborn and Steele counties.

The largest urban area in the watershed is the City of Austin followed by the cities of Blooming Prairie, Hayfield, Brownsdale and Rose Creek.

NOT BY THE HAIR OF OUR CHINNY CHIN CHIN. The big bad wolf can huff and puff, but he won’t get in because our smart security systems protect your farm and livestock with live video surveillance, door sensors, temperature monitoring & more.

888.264.6380 heartlandss.com

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 14

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 19

Researchers Just Made a Breakthrough in Growing Crops During a Drought

Here’s How You Can Help Reduce Food Waste

By Mary Schroeder, Extension Educator - Health & Nutrition

By Ria Misra Drought is spreading across farmland worldwide—and it’s only going to get more intense. New research offers a clue on how we might be able to continue to grow the staples we’re used to but with much less water.

A lot of staple crops, like rice and wheat, actually have a defense mechanism to protect against drought. But by the time it kicks in, it’s often too late.

Researchers at the Australian National University have just identified the enzyme—phosphatase SAL1—responsible in a new paper inProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Now, they want to use it to push plants into

drought-mode early.

The researchers say the enzyme acts like a “fire alarm” in the plant. The problem is that its like a fire alarm that doesn’t start to blare until at least a few rooms of your house are already ash. The defense mechanism cuts down on water loss and usage in the plant, but it will only kick-in when the plant has been in steady drought-like conditions for a long period of time.

By the time a plant goes into water-preservation mode, it’s often already fairly mature. Unfortunately, plants are especially vulnerable to damage in their early seedling stages.

and Shrubs

Landscaping and Design, LLC

FREE Hearing Tests

507-433-6214

608 1st Dr. NW Austin, MN

Now that researchers have figured out what and where the enzyme trigger is, their next step is to figure out how to use it. So far, it’s only a first step, but in a rapidly drying world, it could end up being a pivotal one.

1 Week Left 25% Off Sale All Trees, Perennials

Center For Hearing Excellence

Amy Baarsch

So starting drought-countermeasures early could mean that plants are more likely to not only survive but to produce a larger edible product in the end.

Ends September 24

SNOW REMOVAL SERVICE Fast & Affordable

Nina Baarsch

DOUG’S PAINTING & SANDBLASTING • Farm & Industrial Equipment • In-Shop Painting • Interior & Exterior Refinishing/Painting • New & Existing Commercial Buildings

FREE ESTIMATES | DOUG, JASON & DAN EVANS 2190 S. Lincoln Ave. | Albert Lea, MN 56007 | 507.377.1508

Jason Weis, Owner weislandscapingllc@gmail.com 63118 200th St, Rose Creek 507.437.4751 or 507.460.0277 cell

Patios • Retaining Walls • Sod • Design & Installation

BRICELYN INSURANCE AGENCY Covering All Your Farm Insurance Needs Crop Farm Policies & More Ron Erickson, Agent Ann Jensen, Agent

BRICELYN INSURANCE AGENCY

Farmer’s Trust & Savings Bank Building Bricelyn, MN 507-653-4440 or Toll Free 800-779-0490

Did you know that $90 billion of edible food in the United States goes to waste each year? That’s the weight of 123 Empire State Buildings!

The amount of food waste is a growing concern. Wasted food items make up the single largest component of items going to landfills, but many foods tossed out are still safe to eat.

Fortunately, people are making system changes in producing, processing, storing, and preparing foods to reduce waste. But there are things you can do to cut food waste at home, too.

Following are some tips on that from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s ChooseMyPlate.gov website.

Plan and Save Food (and Money) Plan a weekly menu and make a grocery list with the ingredients you’ll need.

Begin by looking in your refrigerator.

Are there any foods or leftovers that your family should eat before they spoil? Put recipes on your weekly menu that feature your leftover foods. You’ll avoid throwing out those leftovers — and get the most for what you paid for them.

Be a Smart Shopper Now that you’ve developed your grocery list, stick to it so you don’t buy any food you won’t use. You can also

be a smart shopper to prevent food waste. For example, let’s say kiwi fruits are on sale, 5 for $1.00. Your initial thought is to buy 5. But then you notice the kiwi are already ripe and you remember you have other fresh fruit in your refrigerator that your family needs to eat this week.

You choose to buy 2 kiwi fruits rather than 5 — and throwing out 3 because they spoiled before you could eat them.

Understand Food Product Dating The dates on food packages can be confusing. Here are two key things to know: A “sell-by” date tells the store how long to display the product for sale.

You should buy the product before the date expires.

A “best if used by (or before)” date is recommended for best flavor or quality.

Many people throw out products after the “best if used by” date expires, thinking they’re not safe to eat any more. But that’s not necessarily the case.

Assuming you have stored foods properly and the “use by” date occurred a relatively short time ago, you can still eat those foods. Again — your goal is to prevent food waste.

Get Organized Foods are less likely to go bad when you eat older items first.

Keep your pantry and refrigerator clean and organized, with older items in front and newer ones in back. Label

leftovers with content and dates so they can be used within the next few days.

Give Leftovers New Life Give new life to leftover foods that are no longer at peak quality by using them in recipes that hide their problems. For example, add raw slightly limp broccoli to a salad, or blend overripe fruit into a low-fat smoothie.

Also remember to freeze fresh fruits you don’t consume right away so they don’t lose their luster in the first place.

Don’t Toss It — Compost It Instead of throwing out food scraps, create a compost bin. Don’t have a yard?

Your city may help you find composting or recycling options that are right for you.

Make it a goal this month to reduce food waste!

Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2015).

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 18

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 15

ALL THE LATEST 2017 MODELS!

arcticcat.com

ROYAL SPORTS

105 Main St. W. Clarks Grove

royalsports.us • 507-256-7596

Personal, Professional Tax & Accounting Service YEAR ROUND

• INDIVIDUALS • BUSINESS • FARMS Computerized Tax for Federal & All States • INDIVIDUAL • PARTNERSHIP • PAYROLLS & PAYROLL TAX

• CORPORATE • FUDICIARY ACCOUNTING SERVICE

Erik C. Newhouse, CPA

437-8511 • 204 12th St. SW, Austin fasttax@fastincometax.net • 507-437-8513

HUMAN + NATURE

At POET, we understand that the needs of our society and a healthy environment are not mutually exclusive.

By combining human ingenuity with nature’s miracle of growth, we can strike a balance. Sustainably.

Insurance from the Best!

Troy Thompson LUTCF

1330 W. Main, Albert Lea, MN 507-377-2852 troythompsonagency@gmail.com

Checking • Savings • Loans • CDs • IRAs HSAs • Safe Deposit Boxes • Debit/Credit Cards ATMs • Internet/Telephone Banking Offices at:

109 W. Park 220 E. William Ave. St. 109 W Ave. Park Ave. 2401 Bridge Ave.2401 Bridge Hollandale, MN 56045 Albert Lea, MN 56007 AlbertMN Lea,56007 MN 56007 Albert Lea, Hollandale, MN 56045 (507)(507) 889-4311 (507) 373-5500 889-4311 (507) 373-8600 (507) 373-8600

www.producestatebank.com

Serving the community since 1926!

MEMBER

FDIC

PROUDLY PROUDLY PROUDLY PROUDLY

Congratulations 2016 Freeborn County Farm Family of the Year!

Map 3.5x3.5 process

507.373.8895 POET.COM/GLENVILLE

100% 100% 100% 100%

EMPLOYEE OWNED EMPLOYEE OWNED EMPLOYEE OWNED EMPLOYEE OWNED

PROVIDING MANUFACTURING PROVIDING MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS PROVIDING MANUFACTURING PROVIDING MANUFACTURING MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONSPROVIDING AND SUPPORT SOLUTIONS ANDSOLUTIONS SUPPORT AND SUPPORT AND SUPPORT SOLUTIONS AND SUPPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY! TO OUR COMMUNITY! TO TO OUR COMMUNITY! OUR COMMUNITY! TO OUR COMMUNITY!

Congratulations to all our

Farmers!

Doug & Stacy Steele & Family ... 2016 Farm Family of the Year

FOLLOW US! FOLLOW US! FOLLOW US! FOLLOW US!

lou-rich.com

®

Contract Engineering and Manufacturing Contract Engineering and Manufacturing

almco.com

®

®®

Contract Engineering and Manufacturing Contract Engineering and Manufacturing

Iron & Non-Ferrous Metals!

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 16

Supporting local business owners for generations.

Chemical Fertilizer Feed Grain Seed Soil Sampling LP Refined Fuels Lubricants Committed to helping our owners grow.

Local expertise you can count on!

507.754.5125 www.chsrochester.com

From small businesses and family farms, to non-profit organizations and large corporations, Home Federal has been helping businesses succeed since 1934.

Call us today to discuss your financial goals.

507.434.2500

201 W Oakland Ave. • Austin, MN

507.379.2551

143 W Clark St. • Albert Lea, MN

How to keep Animals Out of HIGHEST PRICES PAID! "PUT YOUR JUNK IN OUR YARD!" We want your Iron & Non-Ferrous Metals!

Your Flower & Vegetable Gardens

Here are a few tips for keeping critters away from your favorite plants. Of course, you might decide to just put up with them if they aren’t doing too much damage – they are part of nature, after all!

Squirrels 1541A Hwy 9 • Manly - 5 Miles South of Kensett • 641-512-JUNK or 641-454-3049 Hwy 9 • Manly 1541A 1541A Hwy 9 • Manly 2792 130th St. • Belmond 2792 130th St. • BelmondChoose bulbs that aren’t these little 2792 130th St. • Belmond • 641-444-4633 or 641-430-6900 641-512-JUNK or 641-454-3049 641-444-4633 or 641-430-6900 rodents’ favorites. Good choices are allium, www.bucksrecycling.com 641-512-JUNK or 641-454-3049 641-444-4633 or 641-430-6900 www.bucksrecycling.com daffodils, grape hyacinth and scilla. www.bucksrecycling.com Place chicken wire over your beds and bulbs after planting them.

Spread some dog or cat hair around as a repellent. Replace it with fresh hair regularly.

Sprinkle chicken manure fertilizer on the soil. Squirrels don’t like the smell. Remember to follow the directions on the label.

Cats To protect your seedlings, place chicken wire on the soil or insert several sticks in the soil on an angle.

In borders, place mulch, twigs or stones between the plants to discourage cats from digging in the soil.

Install a motion-activated sprinkler.

As a last resort, use a repellent with oil of black pepper, piperine and capsaicin as the You'll love the wide selection active ingredients. Remember to follow the of salad, pizza, chicken & fixin's directions on the label. plus delectable desserts. ® Groundhogs It's Buffet Your Way Block off any areas where these animals AN ADULT ANYTIME and it's what makes us famous. like to go, like under balconies, decks and sheds. Be careful not to block off the entrance if the animal or any babies are inside.

LIMIT 2 Fence off your vegetable garden.

Some restrictions apply. Not valid with any As a last resort, use a repellent with oil of other offer or with online orders. black pepper, piperine and capsaicin as the 1300 18th Ave NW • Austin Valid September 30, 2016 active ingredients. Remember to follow the 507-396-2677 Austin Pizza Ranch only directions on the label. www.pizzaranch.com

"PUT YOUR JUNK IN OUR YARD!"

Buck’s Recycling Buck’s Recycling

HEATH REINDAL 507-874-3863 507-473-0345

HEATH REINDAL For All Your Electrical Needs 507-874-3863 507-473-0345

1.00 off

$

BUFFET

Stop In & Check Out Our Full Service Retail Meat & Deli Counter

Earning Your Trust Since 1915

Bring your banking home.

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 17

State & National Grand Champion

SMOKED MEATS Best in Show

SUMMER SAUSAGE

CUSTOM PROCESSING At It's Best!

Beef • Pork • Lamb

202 Ash Ave. S. New Richland, MN 507-465-3888

Skunks and raccoons Use garbage cans with lids that are difficult for these animals to remove. Metal cans are good because they can’t be chewed. Scrub out your garbage cans regularly to remove any odors that might attract animals.

Block off any areas where these animals like to go, like under balconies, decks and sheds. Be careful not to block off the entrance if the animal or any babies are inside.

These animals sometimes dig up lawns to find their favorite white grubs. If they aren’t causing too much damage, leave them be, because they’re your allies in keeping down the grubs! You will need to replace any patches of lawn that they dig up every day, though.

If your lawn suffers serious damage, apply nematodes (microscopic worms that are parasitic on white grubs) between mid-August and mid-September to reduce the number of larvae in the soil.

As a last resort, use a repellent with oil of black pepper, piperine and capsaicin as the active ingredients. Remember to follow the directions on the label.

Deer Plant deer-resistant shrubs. You can consult the following books for advice: In English: Hart, Rhonda Massingham. Deerproofing your Yard & Garden, 2nd ed. North Adams, MA: Storey Publishing, 2005.

Install a deer fence.

As a last resort, use a repellent made from dehydrated rotting eggs. Remember to follow the directions on the label.

Adams Health Care Center

AHCC is committed to providing the highest quality nursing care and rehabilitative therapies. Our committed, reliable and trustworthy care team take pride in providing outstanding care for you and your family.

Skilled Nursing Staff • Individual Care Planning • Homelike Atmosphere Weekly Physician Visits • Therapies • Home Health Services Ministerial Visits • Group and Individual Activities Rehab Therapy - 5 Days a Week Cedar Courts Apartments Assisted Living Meals • Housing and Much More!

507-582-3263 • 810 W. Main St, Adams

www. adamshcc.com

Iron & Non-Ferrous Metals!

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 16

Supporting local business owners for generations.

Chemical Fertilizer Feed Grain Seed Soil Sampling LP Refined Fuels Lubricants Committed to helping our owners grow.

Local expertise you can count on!

507.754.5125 www.chsrochester.com

From small businesses and family farms, to non-profit organizations and large corporations, Home Federal has been helping businesses succeed since 1934.

Call us today to discuss your financial goals.

507.434.2500

201 W Oakland Ave. • Austin, MN

507.379.2551

143 W Clark St. • Albert Lea, MN

How to keep Animals Out of HIGHEST PRICES PAID! "PUT YOUR JUNK IN OUR YARD!" We want your Iron & Non-Ferrous Metals!

Your Flower & Vegetable Gardens

Here are a few tips for keeping critters away from your favorite plants. Of course, you might decide to just put up with them if they aren’t doing too much damage – they are part of nature, after all!

Squirrels 1541A Hwy 9 • Manly - 5 Miles South of Kensett • 641-512-JUNK or 641-454-3049 Hwy 9 • Manly 1541A 1541A Hwy 9 • Manly 2792 130th St. • Belmond 2792 130th St. • BelmondChoose bulbs that aren’t these little 2792 130th St. • Belmond • 641-444-4633 or 641-430-6900 641-512-JUNK or 641-454-3049 641-444-4633 or 641-430-6900 rodents’ favorites. Good choices are allium, www.bucksrecycling.com 641-512-JUNK or 641-454-3049 641-444-4633 or 641-430-6900 www.bucksrecycling.com daffodils, grape hyacinth and scilla. www.bucksrecycling.com Place chicken wire over your beds and bulbs after planting them.

Spread some dog or cat hair around as a repellent. Replace it with fresh hair regularly.

Sprinkle chicken manure fertilizer on the soil. Squirrels don’t like the smell. Remember to follow the directions on the label.

Cats To protect your seedlings, place chicken wire on the soil or insert several sticks in the soil on an angle.

In borders, place mulch, twigs or stones between the plants to discourage cats from digging in the soil.

Install a motion-activated sprinkler.

As a last resort, use a repellent with oil of black pepper, piperine and capsaicin as the You'll love the wide selection active ingredients. Remember to follow the of salad, pizza, chicken & fixin's directions on the label. plus delectable desserts. ® Groundhogs It's Buffet Your Way Block off any areas where these animals AN ADULT ANYTIME and it's what makes us famous. like to go, like under balconies, decks and sheds. Be careful not to block off the entrance if the animal or any babies are inside.

LIMIT 2 Fence off your vegetable garden.

Some restrictions apply. Not valid with any As a last resort, use a repellent with oil of other offer or with online orders. black pepper, piperine and capsaicin as the 1300 18th Ave NW • Austin Valid September 30, 2016 active ingredients. Remember to follow the 507-396-2677 Austin Pizza Ranch only directions on the label. www.pizzaranch.com

"PUT YOUR JUNK IN OUR YARD!"

Buck’s Recycling Buck’s Recycling

HEATH REINDAL 507-874-3863 507-473-0345

HEATH REINDAL For All Your Electrical Needs 507-874-3863 507-473-0345

1.00 off

$

BUFFET

Stop In & Check Out Our Full Service Retail Meat & Deli Counter

Earning Your Trust Since 1915

Bring your banking home.

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 17

State & National Grand Champion

SMOKED MEATS Best in Show

SUMMER SAUSAGE

CUSTOM PROCESSING At It's Best!

Beef • Pork • Lamb

202 Ash Ave. S. New Richland, MN 507-465-3888

Skunks and raccoons Use garbage cans with lids that are difficult for these animals to remove. Metal cans are good because they can’t be chewed. Scrub out your garbage cans regularly to remove any odors that might attract animals.

Block off any areas where these animals like to go, like under balconies, decks and sheds. Be careful not to block off the entrance if the animal or any babies are inside.

These animals sometimes dig up lawns to find their favorite white grubs. If they aren’t causing too much damage, leave them be, because they’re your allies in keeping down the grubs! You will need to replace any patches of lawn that they dig up every day, though.

If your lawn suffers serious damage, apply nematodes (microscopic worms that are parasitic on white grubs) between mid-August and mid-September to reduce the number of larvae in the soil.

As a last resort, use a repellent with oil of black pepper, piperine and capsaicin as the active ingredients. Remember to follow the directions on the label.

Deer Plant deer-resistant shrubs. You can consult the following books for advice: In English: Hart, Rhonda Massingham. Deerproofing your Yard & Garden, 2nd ed. North Adams, MA: Storey Publishing, 2005.

Install a deer fence.

As a last resort, use a repellent made from dehydrated rotting eggs. Remember to follow the directions on the label.

Adams Health Care Center

AHCC is committed to providing the highest quality nursing care and rehabilitative therapies. Our committed, reliable and trustworthy care team take pride in providing outstanding care for you and your family.

Skilled Nursing Staff • Individual Care Planning • Homelike Atmosphere Weekly Physician Visits • Therapies • Home Health Services Ministerial Visits • Group and Individual Activities Rehab Therapy - 5 Days a Week Cedar Courts Apartments Assisted Living Meals • Housing and Much More!

507-582-3263 • 810 W. Main St, Adams

www. adamshcc.com

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 18

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 15

ALL THE LATEST 2017 MODELS!

arcticcat.com

ROYAL SPORTS

105 Main St. W. Clarks Grove

royalsports.us • 507-256-7596

Personal, Professional Tax & Accounting Service YEAR ROUND

• INDIVIDUALS • BUSINESS • FARMS Computerized Tax for Federal & All States • INDIVIDUAL • PARTNERSHIP • PAYROLLS & PAYROLL TAX

• CORPORATE • FUDICIARY ACCOUNTING SERVICE

Erik C. Newhouse, CPA

437-8511 • 204 12th St. SW, Austin fasttax@fastincometax.net • 507-437-8513

HUMAN + NATURE

At POET, we understand that the needs of our society and a healthy environment are not mutually exclusive.

By combining human ingenuity with nature’s miracle of growth, we can strike a balance. Sustainably.

Insurance from the Best!

Troy Thompson LUTCF

1330 W. Main, Albert Lea, MN 507-377-2852 troythompsonagency@gmail.com

Checking • Savings • Loans • CDs • IRAs HSAs • Safe Deposit Boxes • Debit/Credit Cards ATMs • Internet/Telephone Banking Offices at:

109 W. Park 220 E. William Ave. St. 109 W Ave. Park Ave. 2401 Bridge Ave.2401 Bridge Hollandale, MN 56045 Albert Lea, MN 56007 AlbertMN Lea,56007 MN 56007 Albert Lea, Hollandale, MN 56045 (507)(507) 889-4311 (507) 373-5500 889-4311 (507) 373-8600 (507) 373-8600

www.producestatebank.com

Serving the community since 1926!

MEMBER

FDIC

PROUDLY PROUDLY PROUDLY PROUDLY

Congratulations 2016 Freeborn County Farm Family of the Year!

Map 3.5x3.5 process

507.373.8895 POET.COM/GLENVILLE

100% 100% 100% 100%

EMPLOYEE OWNED EMPLOYEE OWNED EMPLOYEE OWNED EMPLOYEE OWNED

PROVIDING MANUFACTURING PROVIDING MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS PROVIDING MANUFACTURING PROVIDING MANUFACTURING MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONSPROVIDING AND SUPPORT SOLUTIONS ANDSOLUTIONS SUPPORT AND SUPPORT AND SUPPORT SOLUTIONS AND SUPPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY! TO OUR COMMUNITY! TO TO OUR COMMUNITY! OUR COMMUNITY! TO OUR COMMUNITY!

Congratulations to all our

Farmers!

Doug & Stacy Steele & Family ... 2016 Farm Family of the Year

FOLLOW US! FOLLOW US! FOLLOW US! FOLLOW US!

lou-rich.com

®

Contract Engineering and Manufacturing Contract Engineering and Manufacturing

almco.com

®

®®

Contract Engineering and Manufacturing Contract Engineering and Manufacturing

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 14

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 19

Researchers Just Made a Breakthrough in Growing Crops During a Drought

Here’s How You Can Help Reduce Food Waste

By Mary Schroeder, Extension Educator - Health & Nutrition

By Ria Misra Drought is spreading across farmland worldwide—and it’s only going to get more intense. New research offers a clue on how we might be able to continue to grow the staples we’re used to but with much less water.

A lot of staple crops, like rice and wheat, actually have a defense mechanism to protect against drought. But by the time it kicks in, it’s often too late.

Researchers at the Australian National University have just identified the enzyme—phosphatase SAL1—responsible in a new paper inProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Now, they want to use it to push plants into

drought-mode early.

The researchers say the enzyme acts like a “fire alarm” in the plant. The problem is that its like a fire alarm that doesn’t start to blare until at least a few rooms of your house are already ash. The defense mechanism cuts down on water loss and usage in the plant, but it will only kick-in when the plant has been in steady drought-like conditions for a long period of time.

By the time a plant goes into water-preservation mode, it’s often already fairly mature. Unfortunately, plants are especially vulnerable to damage in their early seedling stages.

and Shrubs

Landscaping and Design, LLC

FREE Hearing Tests

507-433-6214

608 1st Dr. NW Austin, MN

Now that researchers have figured out what and where the enzyme trigger is, their next step is to figure out how to use it. So far, it’s only a first step, but in a rapidly drying world, it could end up being a pivotal one.

1 Week Left 25% Off Sale All Trees, Perennials

Center For Hearing Excellence

Amy Baarsch

So starting drought-countermeasures early could mean that plants are more likely to not only survive but to produce a larger edible product in the end.

Ends September 24

SNOW REMOVAL SERVICE Fast & Affordable

Nina Baarsch

DOUG’S PAINTING & SANDBLASTING • Farm & Industrial Equipment • In-Shop Painting • Interior & Exterior Refinishing/Painting • New & Existing Commercial Buildings

FREE ESTIMATES | DOUG, JASON & DAN EVANS 2190 S. Lincoln Ave. | Albert Lea, MN 56007 | 507.377.1508

Jason Weis, Owner weislandscapingllc@gmail.com 63118 200th St, Rose Creek 507.437.4751 or 507.460.0277 cell

Patios • Retaining Walls • Sod • Design & Installation

BRICELYN INSURANCE AGENCY Covering All Your Farm Insurance Needs Crop Farm Policies & More Ron Erickson, Agent Ann Jensen, Agent

BRICELYN INSURANCE AGENCY

Farmer’s Trust & Savings Bank Building Bricelyn, MN 507-653-4440 or Toll Free 800-779-0490

Did you know that $90 billion of edible food in the United States goes to waste each year? That’s the weight of 123 Empire State Buildings!

The amount of food waste is a growing concern. Wasted food items make up the single largest component of items going to landfills, but many foods tossed out are still safe to eat.

Fortunately, people are making system changes in producing, processing, storing, and preparing foods to reduce waste. But there are things you can do to cut food waste at home, too.

Following are some tips on that from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s ChooseMyPlate.gov website.

Plan and Save Food (and Money) Plan a weekly menu and make a grocery list with the ingredients you’ll need.

Begin by looking in your refrigerator.

Are there any foods or leftovers that your family should eat before they spoil? Put recipes on your weekly menu that feature your leftover foods. You’ll avoid throwing out those leftovers — and get the most for what you paid for them.

Be a Smart Shopper Now that you’ve developed your grocery list, stick to it so you don’t buy any food you won’t use. You can also

be a smart shopper to prevent food waste. For example, let’s say kiwi fruits are on sale, 5 for $1.00. Your initial thought is to buy 5. But then you notice the kiwi are already ripe and you remember you have other fresh fruit in your refrigerator that your family needs to eat this week.

You choose to buy 2 kiwi fruits rather than 5 — and throwing out 3 because they spoiled before you could eat them.

Understand Food Product Dating The dates on food packages can be confusing. Here are two key things to know: A “sell-by” date tells the store how long to display the product for sale.

You should buy the product before the date expires.

A “best if used by (or before)” date is recommended for best flavor or quality.

Many people throw out products after the “best if used by” date expires, thinking they’re not safe to eat any more. But that’s not necessarily the case.

Assuming you have stored foods properly and the “use by” date occurred a relatively short time ago, you can still eat those foods. Again — your goal is to prevent food waste.

Get Organized Foods are less likely to go bad when you eat older items first.

Keep your pantry and refrigerator clean and organized, with older items in front and newer ones in back. Label

leftovers with content and dates so they can be used within the next few days.

Give Leftovers New Life Give new life to leftover foods that are no longer at peak quality by using them in recipes that hide their problems. For example, add raw slightly limp broccoli to a salad, or blend overripe fruit into a low-fat smoothie.

Also remember to freeze fresh fruits you don’t consume right away so they don’t lose their luster in the first place.

Don’t Toss It — Compost It Instead of throwing out food scraps, create a compost bin. Don’t have a yard?

Your city may help you find composting or recycling options that are right for you.

Make it a goal this month to reduce food waste!

Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2015).

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 20

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 13

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Progress is being made on the Cedar River Watershed District’s nearly $8.4 million, five-year initiative to build projects in area farm fields to improve water quality and reduce flooding.

Construction likely will begin this fall on one of the CRWD’s Capital Improvement Plan’s projects, with earth-moving work starting next year at numerous other CIP sites, said Cody Fox, the district’s project manager.

“There has been a lot of work involved with getting our CIP initiative launched in cooperation with landowners and various government agencies,” Fox said. “We are excited for construction to begin and very grateful for the community support through The Hormel Foundation and the CRWD project levy.”

CIP’s nearly $8.4 million budget is expected to be funded with a $3.2 million grant from The Hormel Foundation as part of the Vision 2020 community improvement initiative; $1 million from CRWD’s project levy; and the remaining $4.2 million from state funding sources, such as bonding bills.

In August, CRWD’s Board of Managers approved a project levy that will help the district fund up to 12

percent of the overall CIP cost. CRWD now is securing a 10-year, low-interest state loan for up $1 million through the Clean Water Partnership program offered by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

CRWD will pay off the loan by using the project levy that will generate an additional $100,000 a year in tax funds for projects. The state loan will operate similar to a line of credit in that CRWD can draw funds when needed and pay 2 percent interest only on the money taken out for projects. The project levy will be reviewed annually by the CRWD board.

CRWD plans to draw $400,000 of the $1 million state loan to use immediately on its CIP initiative to build 25 projects over five years for water-quality improvements and flood reduction along the Cedar River State Water Trail and Dobbins Creek watershed. Most CIP projects are targeted upstream from Austin.

Under the CIP initiative, CRWD is seeking to build 25 priority projects that range in size, complexity and location but generally are related to stormwater detention, ravine stabilization and flood-risk reduction. When entirely completed, the CIP initiative is projected to provide an 8-percent reduction

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in flood flows to the Cedar River.

This would be a major step toward the CRWD’s overall mission to reduce peak flood flows by 20 percent through building control structures with berms at hundreds of locations. These structures will detain flood waters, reducing potential damage Cody Fox to downstream crops and buildings as well as decreasing streambank erosion on waterways.

Established in 2007, CRWD’s main focus areas are flooding and water quality. CRWD’s boundaries include about 435 square miles, including portions of Mower, Dodge, Freeborn and Steele counties.

The largest urban area in the watershed is the City of Austin followed by the cities of Blooming Prairie, Hayfield, Brownsdale and Rose Creek.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 12

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 21

Potato Sausage Supper

Ingredients 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced (I like to leave the skin on and it saves time) 1 pound smoked kielbasa or Polish sausage, cut into 1/2-inch slices 2 medium onions, sliced and separated into rings 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cheddar cheese soup, undiluted 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of celery soup, undiluted 1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas, thawed

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Directions 1. In a greased 5-qt. slow cooker; layer a third of each of the potatoes, sausage, onions and cheese soup. Repeat layers twice.

2. Pour celery soup over the top. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender. Add peas and cook 30 minutes longer.

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 15 min. Cook: 6 hours

This is a very easy, delicious crock pot meal that will satisfy anyone hard at work during harvest season.

You can easily double the recipe for a larger group or it makes great leftovers.

Yield: 6-8 servings.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 22

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 11

4 Technologies That Will Usher in the Next Generation Farming

Baked Spaghetti Squash with Beef & Veggies

Joseph Byrum, PhD, MBA, PMP/Strategic Marketing Executive in Global Product Development and Head of Soybean Seeds Product Development at Syngenta.

Farmers increasingly look toward scientific and technological collaboration and innovation to help them grow food more sustainably. (Credit: Syngenta) Technology that promises to unleash agricultural productivity is here today.

The combination punch of advanced mathematics, automation, advancements in sensor systems and next-generation plant breeding are setting the stage for the next Green Revolution, which is what we need to ensure a sustainable future.

Forget about the days when farmers guessed the best time to plant by looking up a forecast in the Farmer’s Almanac. Next-generation farms are putting science and technology to work to deliver a step change in yields , growing more from less. Here are four of the most exciting developments to watch out for in 2016.

1. The mathematics revolution We’re long overdue for a mathematical revolution in agriculture. The power of advanced mathematics is boosting farm productivity made accessible by the processing capabilities in the latest generation of computing hardware and software. For example, farmers can now know the best time to plant crops by looking at historical data and using simulation models to make informed choices based on current conditions, rather than guesswork. Plant breeders also take advantage of advanced mathematics to identify crop varieties with higher yields and other desirable traits. Finally, the mathematical revolution can help schedule everything from the harvest to loading trucks in a way that ensures

fresh crops make it to the market. In other words, the mathematics revolution brings to the entire agricultural supply chain the power to make informed decisions about using natural resources wisely.

2. The sensing revolution The mathematics revolution can only deliver these benefits if the simulation models are fed high-quality data. That need is being met by advanced sensor technologies that are enabling a real-time understanding of what’s happening on the modern farm, unlike anything seen in the past. The latest equipment takes advantage of networks of smart sensors that monitor the health of the soil along with a plant’s water and nitrogen needs. Knowing precisely how much water is needed helps optimize irrigation, conserve scarce resources and maximize yields. Getting the amount of nitrogen and water right is absolutely

essential to preserving the environment.

For livestock, collars equipped with RFID, biometric sensors and GPS combine to allow real-time monitoring of the location and health of farm animals, en-

suring that ranchers and farmers will be able to respond quickly to any potential problem.

3. Putting it together with automation Automation works hand-in-hand with the advanced mathematics and high-resolution sensing to ensure that planting, harvesting, irrigating and the application of other inputs are performed with absolute precision. Agricultural robots, or agbots, are automating tedious tasks.

Combine hundreds of these energy-efficient agbots and you end up with robotic farm swarms, which work in a network to monitor conditions and harvest crops without the need for human intervention, which means fewer farm injuries and less environmental waste. Such projects are currently in testing stages.

4. Next generation plant breeding for corn Growing plants in a smarter way represents only half of the task agriculture faces. It’s just as important to breed better plants. That’s why perhaps one of the most exciting advances to watch for is the development of corn hybrids selected and adapted to thrive when planted in high densities. This makes possible a step change in yield delivered per acre.

Higher productivity in agriculture isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. The world’s population will grow by two billion in the decades ahead. We can only feed all of these people if we are smart about how we boost yields in our industry. Paying attention to the environment, biodiversity and the needs of smallholder farmers is key to doing this in the right way.

As these advances continue to develop in 2016, it will be clear that the future has never been brighter in agriculture.

Ingredients 1 spaghetti squash, halved and seeded 1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes, drained 1 pound ground beef 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup diced red onion 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 clove garlic, chopped 2 1/4 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese Directions Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Place squash on a baking sheet, and bake 40 minutes, or until tender. Remove from heat, cool, and shred pulp with a fork.

Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until evenly brown. Drain, and mix in the green pepper, red pepper, red onion, and garlic. Continue to cook and stir until vegetables are tender.

Mix the shredded squash and tomatoes into the skillet, and season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook and stir until heated through. Remove skillet from heat, and mix in 2 cups cheese until melted. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish.

Bake 25 minutes in the preheated oven. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, and continue baking 5 minutes, until cheese is melted.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 10

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 23

SDSU Ag Engineering Department Improves Students’ Hands-On Learning

Caramelized Spicy Pumpkin Seeds

Ingredients 3 tablespoons white sugar 1/4 teaspoon cumin 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1 pinch cayenne pepper

IN THE RAPIDLY EVOLVING realm of precision agriculture, hands-on experience is critical for students as they prepare for future careers in the industry. SDSU students are gaining that experience through eight Kubota utility vehicles outfitted with auto-steering systems – and other precision ag bells and whistles.

2 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds, washed and dried Cooking spray 2 teaspoons salt, or to taste 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoons white sugar

Nic Uilk, an instructor in the Department

Directions Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, stir together 3 tablespoons of sugar, the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne pepper, and set aside.

Place the pumpkin seeds on the prepared baking sheet, spray them with cooking spray, and sprinkle with salt to taste. Bake the seeds in the preheated oven until lightly golden, 20 to 25 minutes.

Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, and stir in the toasted pumpkin seeds along with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook and stir the seeds until the sugar forms a coating on the seeds, 2 to 3 minutes.

Stir the caramelized seeds into the bowl of sugar-spice mixture, toss to coat, and let cool.

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes

Dirk Seeger

of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, notes that it is a major coup for SDSU to be able to offer these unique vehicles for students to work with. “No other university has eight,” says Uilk.

The Kubotas were added to the SDSU program in October 2015. SDSU faculty worked with Sioux Falls-based Raven Industries to install auto-steering systems on them to allow students to gain

College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences

“These pumpkin seeds are both sweet and spicy at the same time.They have much more flavor than any other pumpkin seeds.”

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experience during labs. Uilk explains that previously an auto-steer tractor would be borrowed from a dealership and demonstrated during lab time. Now, with eight utility vehicles in the department, a lab with 16 students means two students share a vehicle and gain ample experience in the driver’s seat.

Through support from other equipment and precision ag companies, the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department has also acquired three two-row planters to pull behind the Kubota utility vehicles and continues to work with other farm equipment manufacturers to obtain additional North American planter brands. Plans are in the works to add more planting equipment and four sprayer units by the Fall 2016 semester.

Uilk notes, “Troubleshooting any precision ag equipment and systems really requires hands-on experience.

Having this equipment in our department is providing SDSU students that critical experience.”

With farm ground located just one mile from campus, Uilk says students are given opportunities during lab time to gain skills with auto-steering set-up, calibration and adjustment, as well as driving operation.

Austin Carlson, a 2016 SDSU graduate

For more information about the college, Visit: www.sdstate.edu/abs/ Call: 605-688-5133 Email: sdsu.academic.programs@sdstate.edu For more information about admissions Email: sdsu.admissions@sdstate.edu Phone: 1-800-952-3541

from Garretson, SD, with a degree in Agriculture Systems Technology, is excited for future students attending SDSU who will have the opportunity to work with the equipment. “These vehicles provide the necessary hands-on learning for precision agriculture, electronic controls, electronic communication and diagnostics, and proper machinery setup and maintenance for planting and applicator portions of agriculture.”

Uilk notes that going forward, precision agriculture technology is continually changing, and SDSU will strive to evolve and adapt their equipment and systems as well. He says, “We plan for a continually developing platform to keep the technology current for students.”

Some of the classes the equipment is currently utilized in include Introduction to Precision Agriculture, Farm Machinery Systems Management, Electrical Diagnostics for Farm Machinery, and Emerging Technologies in Agriculture.

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 24

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 9

USDA to Provide Financing Option for Farmers Article submitted by Kirk W Phelps, Mower County Executive Director, USDA Farm Service Agency U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide a new financing option to help farmers purchase portable storage and handling equipment. Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced changes to the Farm Storage Facility Loan (FSFL) program. The loans, which now include a smaller microloan option with lower down payments, are designed to help producers, including new, small and midsized producers, grow their businesses and markets. The loans are also now available for used and portable grain handling equipment.

The program offers a new “microloan� option, which allows applicants seeking less than $50,000 to qualify for a reduced down payment of five percent and no requirement to provide three years of production history. Farms and ranches of all sizes are eligible. The

microloan option is expected to be of particular benefit to smaller farms and ranches, and specialty crop producers who may not have access to commercial storage or on-farm storage after harvest.

These producers can invest in equipment like conveyers, scales or refrigeration units and trucks that can store commodities before delivering them to markets.

Producers do not need to demonstrate the lack of commercial credit availability to apply.

Earlier this year, FSA significantly expanded the list of commodities eligible for Farm Storage Facility Loan. Eligible commodities now include aquaculture; floriculture; fruits (including nuts) and vegetables; corn, grain sorghum, rice, oilseeds, oats, wheat, triticale, spelt, buckwheat, lentils, chickpeas, dry peas sugar, peanuts, barley, rye, hay, honey, hops,

maple sap, unprocessed meat and poultry, eggs, milk, cheese, butter, yogurt and renewable biomass. FSFL microloans can also be used to finance wash and pack equipment used Kirk Phelps post-harvest, before a commodity is placed in cold storage.

To learn more about Farm Storage Facility Loans, visit www.fsa.usda.gov/ pricesupport or contact a local FSA county office. To find your local FSA county office, visit http://offices.usda.gov/.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 8

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 25

“The Power of Endowment” An Endowment Fund at Work

An endowment is established by a donor who makes a gift to create a lasting legacy in support of the community or a specific cause.

These funds are invested so that the endowment continues to grow forever.

A portion of this endowment is used annually, as a grant, to support the cause specified by the donor.

remains strong at over $60,000, allowing for continued good work to be done for the ARC of Mower County.

In memory of her husband, Alice and her children established the Qual Family Memorial Fund with a gift of $18,000 for the eternal care of programming opportunities at the ARC.

Donors make a difference with the gifts they provide for charitable funds. These funds benefit the community forever and create lasting legacies. We invite you to join in giving back, getting connected and building a better community.

Over the past 5 years, the Qual Family Memorial Fund has awarded over $8,000 in grants to support various activities at the ARC of Mower County.

Today, the fund balance

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 26

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 7

Livestock and the Environment: MPCA Feedlot Program Overview In Minnesota there are about 18,000 feedlots in operation, according to the 2010-2014 registration period. They range in size from small farms to large-scale commercial livestock operations. Agriculture including livestock comprises a major portion of the state’s economy. Many organizations and programs work with livestock producers to ensure that we continue to have a healthy livestock industry and a healthy natural environment. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) regulates the collection, transportation, storage, processing and disposal of animal manure and other livestock operation wastes. The MPCA Feedlot Program implements rules governing these activities, and provides assistance to counties and the livestock industry. The feedlot rules apply to most aspects of livestock management including the location, design, construction, operation and management of feedlots and manure handling facilities. The MPCA feedlot

staff are located in St. Paul and six regional offices: Brainerd, Detroit Lakes, Mankato, Marshall, Rochester, and Willmar. They work in the areas of land application of manure, permitting, data management, technical assistance, and compliance with feedlot rules. On the web: www.pca.state. mn.us/zihy6a1 Training and technical assistance The MPCA provides training opportunities and assistance to counties and livestock producers. County feedlot officers receive inspection and permitting training, covering all aspects of the program. MPCA technical staff conduct workshops and presentations for county staff and producer groups.

Contacts For more information about the Feedlot Program contact Forrest Peterson at (320) 441-6972.

More information is also available on the MPCA website at www.pca.state. mn.us/hot/feedlots.html.

For more information Producer organizations also provide environmen-

“ Greater Minnesota and South Central Minnesota are my priorities.

I will work for economic development, a transportation plan, and support for education, “ Greater Minnesota andMinnesota South Central Minnesota are “ Greater and South agriculture, andeconomic our seniors. ” my priorities.

I will work for development, Central Minnesota are mySouth priorities. “ Greater Minnesota and work economic a transportationI will plan, andfor for education, Central Minnesota are support my priorities. development, transportation agriculture, andaour seniors. ”

I will work for economic plan, and support for education, Strong Enough to aLead, Enough to Listen. agriculture, and Smart our seniors. ” development, transportation Strong Enough to Lead, www.schindlerforhouse.com plan, Strong and support for education, EnoughEnough to Lead, Smart Enough to Listen.

Smart to Listen. www.schindlerforhouse.com agriculture, and our seniors. ”

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tal management information to their members. Many dairies have qualified for the Environmental Quality Assurance designation through the Minnesota Milk Producers Association.

The following Web sites are good information sources for feedlots and manure management: • Manure and Odor Education Research – University of Minnesota Extension: www.manure.umn.edu/ • Minnesota Department of Agriculture: www.mda.state.mn.us/animals. aspx • National Agriculture Compliance Assistance Center: www.epa.gov/oecaagct/anafocom.html Summary of Feedlot Registrations by Size in Freeborn County Less than 300 AU - 333 300-999 AU- 69 1000 or more AU - 18 Total Feedlots - 420 Number of Registered Animals in Freeborn Co Beef Cattle: Calf - 2,705

Cow and Calf pair - 2476 Feeder Cattle or Heifer - 6379 Slaughter or Stock - 6987 Dairy Cattle: Calf - 2492 Heifer - 1843 Mature (over 1000 lbs) - 1508 Mature (under 1000 lbs) - 155 Chickens/Broilers: 5 lbs and over- 877 under 5 lbs- 20465 Chickens/Layers 5 lbs and over- 215 under 5 lbs- 128 Swine: 55-300 lbs- 220,121 over 300 lbs- 24.349 under 55 lbs- 83.338 Sheep or lambs: 2600 Turkey: 5 lbs and over - 82.7 Duck: 288 Elk: 46 Goat: 152 Horses: 418

Farm Loan Program Assistance Article submitted by Adam J Gritz, USDA Farm Service Agency, Fillmore County Farm Loan Manager Farm Service Agency Farm Loan Program assistance is available to eligible applicants who • Are unable to obtain conventional credit • Will be the owner or renter of a not larger than family sized farm • Have sufficient training and/or experience in managing and operating a farm • Are citizens or lawfully admitted aliens • Show repayment ability for the requested loan • Show sufficient security for the requested loan Loans are available for machinery, livestock, crop operating and real estate purposes. Now is the time to discuss 2016/2017 credit needs with your current lender. If Farm Service Agency assistance may be required, contact the Farm Service Agency as soon as possible to be ready for the 2017 operating cycle.

Other eligibility requirements apply to certain loan types. Contact the Farm Service Agency for a full discussion of your circumstances to determine if you may be eligible for loan assistance. To find your nearest office location, please visit http://offices.usda.gov.

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance

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Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: 1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; 2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or 3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

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3 Co-authored a bill that prevented DNR overreach Minnesota 3 Co-authored a bill and voted for tax relief on ag land Farm Bureau 3 Supported programs to combat livestock disease 3 Continues to work for common sense reductions in regulations

Peggy knows how important agriculture is to our area!

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program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs).

Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Visit www.Bennett4House.com to learn more about Peggy and her positions!

PEGGY BENNETT

NOVEMBER 8TH! She will continue to be a strong voice for Minnesota farmers!

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 6

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 27

Sharon M. Danes, Extension Specialist and Professor - Family Social Science

Speak Carefully

Be specific. Listeners are not mind readers. Define the problem or name the feeling. Other’s likely won’t know what we want or feel if we leave them guessing.

Stay focused. Discuss only the issue at hand. Getting off the track and bringing up old issues is confusing and irritating.

Don’t say things you don’t mean and threaten things you won’t carry out.

Say less. Silence is helpful when emotions are strong, when we feel stressed, or when we are tired. Often, during those times, we say things we do not mean. We tend to exaggerate or escalate the situation to magnitudes that are not real.

Say it with tact. Ban blaming. Keep comments descriptive rather than critical, blaming, or all-knowing. Avoid criticism and sarcasm. “I” statements are less threatening to the listener.

Listen Attentively

Listen with empathy. Put yourself in the speaker’s shoes. Try to understand their perspective. You don’t have to agree with the other point of view to understand or empathize with it.

Listen without interrupting. Sometimes it’s necessary to stop talking to hear all of the words. Eliminate both mental and physical distractions. Concentrate on the words and pay attention to the nonverbal gestures.

Receive criticism successfully. Put your shields up. Act like a coffee filter and strain out the emotional grounds — like

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How we talk and how we listen are always important, but when the pressure is on, our communication styles become even more important. During stressful times, it’s easy to experience misunderstandings that sometimes result in adding more stress to the situation. At times like this, it’s helpful to reexamine how we communicate.

Whether we are communicating with lenders, creditors, or family members, the three principles for effective communication remain the same: 1. Speak carefully.

2. Listen attentively.

3. Respond accurately.

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fear or anger — from the facts.

Accept what is said without giving advice. There are times when we believe the speaker is wrong, and we want to tell them. It would feel so good to tell them what to do. However, even when the advice is eventually followed, the timing is important. It’s best to listen, to support, and to let the feelings be heard before offering any advice.

Speak Carefully

Get all the facts. Listen carefully until you understand what is being said. Ask the speaker to clarify anything that you don’t understand. But don’t ask too many questions — that can be distracting.

Check your interpretations. The goal of communication is to understand.

Listeners interpret what is being said, so check with the speaker to be sure that what you heard is what the speaker meant. Ask the speaker if your perspective is accurate. For example, you can say “Do I understand you to mean...?” or “Did you say...?”

Be honest. Stay honest as you say, “I

understand why you feel that way.”

Acknowledging and accepting the speaker’s feelings does not mean that you agree with them.

Listen to yourself. Make a conscious effort to hear how you speak. Do you have a positive or negative attitude?

What is your tone of voice? A steady stream of snappy responses puts others on the defensive.

Although we may not always get what we want, it’s important to make our wishes known so we don’t build up resentment. Listening to understand others’ needs and wants with sensitivity demonstrates a caring attitude. When everyone involved in the communication process speaks and listens carefully, it’s easier to share perceptions and feelings while moving toward understanding one another.

Source Turner, L. H. & West, R. W. (2014). The SAGE Handbook of Family Communication.

Los Angeles, CA: Sage Publications, Inc.

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The Many Different Uses of Pumpkin Autumn is the season when pumpkins are ripe for the picking, and thousands of people flock to local farms and roadside vendors to select perfect pumpkins. Many pumpkins are turned into decorative jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween, only to be tossed in the trash come November 1. That could be because many people are unaware of the various ways they can put pumpkins to good use. Pumpkins are gourds and members of the squash family and have been grown and used for thousands of years. Evidence suggests that pumpkins date back to 7000 B.C., possibly originating in Mexico. Today they are widely used for decorating around Halloween, but there are many other things that can be done with pumpkins. ~ Create a food vessel. Pumpkins can be transformed into bowls to hold soup, punch, fruit, or even dips. Make sure the pumpkin has been cleaned well of its

~ Make pumpkin puree. Puree from a pumpkin can be used in all types of recipes, from soups to baked goods. The puree also can replace the oil in cake recipes. Cut the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and stringy membranes. Then place it cut-side-down in a pan with a little water in the bottom. Bake at 350 F for around 90 minutes. The flesh will become tender and easily removable.

Blend the resulting puree in a food processor and reserve flesh for recipes. Some pumpkins are sweeter or better to use as part of recipes. Check the variety you’re purchasing. ~ Whip up a facial. Use some pumpkin puree

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pulp and seeds, as well as the stringy flesh that is inside. Rub the inside walls of the pumpkin with oil to keep them from drying out and caving in, then fill with your food of choice.

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with a little brown sugar and a dash of milk to create a vitamin-rich facial mask. ~ Get illuminated.

Turn hollowed-out mini pumpkins into candles. Melt soy wax, beeswax or the gel type of candle wax that can be found at most craft stores.

Add your favorite scent and place a wick into the bottom of the pumpkin.

Then pour the wax into hallowed-out space and allow it to harden. Try the same thing with bumpy and multicolored gourds for added decorating appeal. ~ Turn the pumpkin into a flower pot.

Fill a hollow pumpkin with soil. You may not have to worry about scraping the pumpkin completely clean because the pulp can be used to help fertilize the potting soil. Plant your favorite fall flowers into the festive and earthfriendly flower pot. When the pumpkin shows signs of rotting, simply put the whole thing into a traditional flower pot or bury it directly in the ground. ~ Make pumpkin stock. While vegetable or meat-based stocks may be

the standards, pumpkin can be used to make stock as well. Clean out the seeds from the stringy guts of the pumpkin and put the guts into a pot filled with water. Add celery, carrots or any other aromatic vegetables for extra flavor.

Allow to boil for at least 30 minutes.

The stock is ready when it begins to change color. Strain and reserve the stock for use in a variety of recipes. ~ Add to compost bins. Pumpkins are rich in zinc, vitamin A and vitamin C, among other nutrients. You can add the discarded pumpkins to your backyard compost bins to further replenish the soil. ~ Turn into a billowing cauldron.

Instead of a standard jack-o’-lantern, put a glass jar into the carved pumpkin, add dish soap and hot water to the jar and then put in a piece of dry ice.

Bubbles and smoke will pour out of the pumpkin to create a spooktacular effect.

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 28

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 5

October is the Official Start of the New 4-H Year Past 4-H’ers as well as NEW youth who are interested in joining 4-H can get enrolled anytime after September 15th for this next year. Here are a few frequently asked questions and answers about 4-H! Who can participate in 4-H? 4-H serves youth in grades kindergarten through one year past high school from all backgrounds and interests. 4-H offers membership without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, disability, or handicap. To join, contact your local county Extension office.

How can I participate in 4-H? As a Cloverbud - Cloverbuds is an age appropriate, non-competitive experience for youth grades K-2. Cloverbuds join a local 4-H Club and participate with their club in their activities also. There are separate county led activity days held bi-monthly that youth get to meet new friends, work with mentors, make projects, play games and have healthy snacks.

Join a local 4-H club — 4-H clubs are groups of youth who meet regularly to work on 4-H projects, perform community service, develop leadership skills and learn to work together. Guided by one or more adult volunteers, a club can be any size, from a small group of neighborhood kids to a large group from a school or county. Visit a club meeting in your area before joining and see what 4-H has to offer! There are 12 4-H Clubs in Freeborn County!

Participate in 4-H in school OR afterschool

at various elementary schools in our county!

Participate in 4-H Adventures — 4-H Adventures are one-time events where youth can participate in a 4-H project or activity.

You need not be enrolled in 4-H to participate. These activities may include 4-H overnight camp, project nights, or Summer or Winter Leadership outings.

What can I do in 4-H? If you’re enrolled in a 4-H club, 4-H has something for you! There are many 4-H project areas from Robotics to Shop to Foods to Photography to Crafts and Fine Arts plus all of our animal projects. If you don’t see a project that interests you, just ask! We can help you create your own project.

How do I enroll in a club?

You may enroll online at mn.4honline.com OR by completing paper forms at the local Extension Office.

How much does it cost to participate in 4-H? 4-H is a publicly funded program of University of Minnesota Extension and Freeborn County. Most clubs charge a nominal fee of $5-$10 per 4-Her per year. This helps provide funds for club events as well as insurance for the 4-H’ers when they are at a 4-H sponsored event.

Some events will have additional costs such as overnight camps or a project training night. Scholarships are ALWAYS available and provided for any youth.

We have your back.

Project costs vary, and many don’t require a big investment.

For example, members enrolled in crafts might use supplies from around the house to practice the skills they are learning and, therefore, would have no additional expenses. 4-H’ers who buy and keep a saddle horse, however, might have to make a large investment.

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All adults who work with 4-H youth must complete the Volunteer Selection Process, including a criminal history check. Contact the Freeborn County Extension Office at 377-5660 for more information about how you can become a 4-H volunteer!

For more information about 4-H or how to join, please contact the Freeborn County Extension Office at 377-5660 OR come and visit us at the Freeborn County Courthouse!

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How can I volunteer for 4-H? Capable, caring adult volunteers are always needed to help lead and assist with 4-H activities. Orientation and training is provided, so no previous experience is necessary. 4-H volunteers are supported by a professional staff, including 4-H Program Coordinators and 4-H Extension Educators.

There are also various 4-H support and advisory groups made up of interested adult volunteers.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 4

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 29

The Ongoing Discussion of Soil Health

Farming in the 1800’s By John Haymond, Executive Director, Mower County Historical Society Before the American Civil War, the huge expanse of the Midwestern prairie was often referred to as “the Great American Desert.” It was not called that because anyone actually believed it was a real desert, but because the agricultural technology of the time had not yet developed the equipment necessary to effectively turn the tough prairie sod into productive farms.

For thousands of years, plow design had followed more or less the same lines, regardless of whether the draft animals in use were horses, oxen, or water buffalo. The main digging element of the plow, called the moldboard, was usually made of wood which wore out quickly.

The addition of metal edges to the moldboard lengthened the life of a plow, but it wasn’t until moldboards were made entirely of metal that a truly effective farming plow came into common use.

As settlers pressed farther west in America and began farming their

homesteads, the standard plows that had worked well enough back east proved to be inadequate to the harder work of cutting the prairie. Two innovations in plow design changed that dynamic, and opened up the vast agricultural potential of the frontier.

The first was the addition of a coulter to the standard plow design. The coulter was essentially a small blade mounted forward of the moldboard, and it acted as a first cut to open up the tough layer of grass and roots for the plow, which could then dig deep and turn up a good furrow.

The second improvement was in the metal of the plowshare itself. Standard plows of the early 1800s were made of cast iron, and the sticky soil of the prairie constantly stuck to the iron as a farmer worked, requiring time-consuming pauses to clean the blade. In 1838 an Illinois blacksmith named John Deere designed and built the first plow with a polished

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steel share, to which he added a few other touches that resulted in a self-scouring plow. Working with this improved implement, a farmer could plow more ground in a single day than ever before. Deere’s invention was an instant commercial success – by 1841, he was making nearly 100 plows a year, and was selling every plow he could make.

Oxen were widely used as the primary draft animals in the early days of American farming, and that was true in Minnesota as elsewhere in the country. Oxen were stolid, hard-working, and strong, but they were slow. A farmer working a 40-acre field would walk nearly 330 miles in the course of plowing that field, and it would take a double yoke of oxen at least 25 10-hour days to complete the job.

Horses were faster. They could be skittish, cost more to feed, and tired out quicker than oxen, but a double team of horses working that same 40-acre

field could do the job in 16 10-hour days, and that meant a farmer could plow more acreage in the planting John Haymond season than he could before. The downside, if there was one, was that while older oxen could be butchered for beef, no one was very keen on the idea of eating their retired horses.

Another edition of Farming in the Heartland means another article from the Freeborn Area Soil Health Team promoting healthy soil and clean water through the use of cover crops.

That’s right folks, the Soil Health Team nor the talk of cover crops are going away any time soon. In fact, both are growing in popularity! In the month of August, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) released the

The Freeborn Area Soil Health Team is not going away anytime soon either. By the years end, the local team will have held 6 educational events for farmers right here in Freeborn County.

During these 6 events, over 300 participants will have attended. These 6 events promote farmer to farmer

When the walk-behind plow was eventually replaced by the sulky plow, upon which the farmer could ride, the rate of work increased again. Where a walk-behind plow was essentially limited to two acres per day, a sulky plow raised the potential rate of work to as much as seven acres a day.

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results from their 2016 Cover Crop Survey. With over 2000 participants from across the nation the data told a story of enthusiasm and rising yields. The 2016 results noted that “acreage planted to cover crops continued its steady rise among survey participants… and is projected to grow in 2016”. SARE also stated that “Multi-year data shows the yield boost increases as cover crops are planted year after year, a revelation that points to an appealing long-term benefit of the conservation practice”. The full report is available online at www.sare.org/covercropsurvey.

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The Soil Health Team’s next event will be their 3 rd annual Winter Conference. It is being held January 26th at Wedgewood Cove in Albert Lea. The day will start at 10am and end at 2:30pm.

Featured speakers are Sarah Carlson and Jerry Ackermann. Carlson a Cover Crop Research Coordinator for Practical Farmers of Iowa and Ackermann a Strip Till farmer near Worthington MN have spoken at National conferences to educate farmers on improving the health of their soil and the health of their crops. The event will end with a presentation by the Soil Health Team themselves on data that they have collected right here in Freeborn County. Please RSVP to this event by January 19th for meal count. Cost of event will be $20 (cash or check) at the door.

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learning with the end goal of healthier soils and cleaner water for our community. Want to learn more about the team, or want to attend an event? How about learn how to make your poor soil good and your good soil better? Visit the Freeborn County NRCS/SWCD/FSA office to learn more about the team and sign up for our next event!

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 30

Shopper

The

and

Freeborn County

Shopper The Mower County

Would like to remind all our area farmers to be alert to the dangers and practice farm safety this season!

Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 3

Overhead Power Lines

Entanglement with overhead power lines and farm equipment is one of the most common electrical hazards on the farm. Many types of farm equipment can come in contact with overhead power lines. Tractors with front-end loaders, portable grain augers, fold-up planters, dump truck beds and sprayer booms are all examples of equipment that can easily get caught in overhead power lines.

Recommendations: • LOOK UP! before moving or transporting equipment especially around buildings, grain bins or entrance/exiting fields and farms.

• Power lines should be at least 18 feet above the highest point of grain bin where portable augers or other portable filling equipment is used.

• Considering burying electric lines to reduce the risk of accidental contact.

• Remember some equipment during transportation is actually taller than when in use.

• Another thing you need to be careful of is bumping into the guy wires on electrical poles. This will cause sagging in the overhead lines and will make entanglement more likely.

• Always stay alert and never take unnecessary risks.

If your equipment becomes entangled in power lines, stay in the tractor or truck unless the tractor or truck starts on fire.

Jump as far from the tractor as possible but land on both feet.

Then hop with feet together to get to safety!

If on fire, contact 911…if you are staying in the vehicle, contact FMCS Operations at 800-734-6421.

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 2

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 31

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Celebrating 70 Years of Family and Farmland Stewardship

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OWNER OPERATORS AND COMPANY DRIVERS Contact Mike in Recruiting

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Supplement to The Freeborn & Mower County Shoppers/September 2016/Page 32

Farming 16 Ford F-150

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in the

HEARTLAND An Agricultural, Farming & Rural Development Supplement Covering Freeborn County, Mower County & Surrounding Areas

Fall 2016

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We have roots in this land too For decades, Bremer has been committed to agricultural banking. From loans, cash management and insurance, to retirement, estate and succession planning, we’re here to help farmers and farm businesses grow with imaginative and resourceful solutions. To find out how we can help you, call or stop in today.

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