February 2013 Union Farmer

Mission Statement: North Dakota Farmers Union, guided by the principles of cooperation, legislation and education, is an organization committed to the prosperity of family farms, ranches and rural communities.

UNION FARMER www.ndfu.org

Harrison, age 4, is the grandson of Bottineau Farmers Union Insurance agent Brad Trebas.

Harrison lives in Bismarck.

In this issue:

15. Touring the southwest

17.What’s cooking with Emma?

21.Winter is for the birds

23.Oil and gas leasing Q & A

February 2013 – Volume 60 Number 2

North Dakota Union Farmer

The UNION FARMER is published monthly by North Dakota Farmers Union at 1415 12th Ave SE, Jamestown N.D. 58401.

Annual subscription is $30 annually with NDFU membership.Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, ND.

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DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EDITOR: Anne Denholm 800-366-8331 • www.ndfu.org adenholm@ndfu.org POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NDFU PO Box 2136 Jamestown N.D. 58402-2136 Copies mailed this issue: 35,288 • USPS 016-211

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President: Elwood “Woody” Barth Vice President: Bob Kuylen Secretary: Ellen Linderman Treasurer: Terry Borstad James Kerzman; Wes Niederman Jr.; Dennis Stromme; Jim Teigen; Ben Vig

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Learning about using technology on the farm and ranch

Precision Agriculture Summit held in Jamestown Jan. 21-22

More than 250 agriculture producers, researchers, agronomists, manufacturers, business leaders, economic developers and students gathered at the 2013 Precision Agriculture Action Summit to learn about the state of precision agriculture, including trends, technological applications and demonstrations for

focused on providing farming professionals with information to successfully integrate precision agriculture into farming operations.

“Precision agriculture increases efficiency for farming professionals all over the world,” said Delore Zimmerman, executive director of the Red River Participants had the opportunity to see new computer applications that could be utilized in farm operations.

Valley Research Corridor. “This featured product and technique summit provided attendees demonstrations. with hands-on experience The Red River Research and valuable education Corridor and North Dakota Farmers to incorporate precision Union co-hosted the conference agriculture into their own at the NDFU conference center in farming efforts.”

Jamestown. Co-organizers included Presenters included NDSU Agricultural and Biosystems industry experts, Titan Machinery was a vendor at the summit.

Engineering and the Dakota producers, practitioners Precision Ag Center. s successful implementation. and technology “It is great to be a co-host of this developers who gave event,” said North Dakota Farmers presentations about Union President Elwood “Woody” in-field sensors, Barth. “It was wonderful to bring all vegetation indices these people together – both our and nitrogen rate members, producers and friends – and commercial to learn about the new and exciting sensors. There also concepts precision agriculture were demonstrations brings to our industry.” of variable rate, This major event for the industry soil, livestock and is one of only a few precision spatial management agriculture conferences held applications. An Checking out new tools and information. nationwide. This year, the summit exhibition area Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

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Call to action: tell your story

BY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

The 2013 North Dakota State Legislature is officially under way and the North Dakota Farmers Union legislative team is working to determine the impact of bills on our membership and to advocate for NDFU’s Program of Policy and Action. The team also keeps members educated about issues the legislature is considering that will affect farmers and ranchers and the rural way of life.

NDFU General Counsel and Director of Government Relations, Kristi Schlosser Carlson, reported, “The legislative team stays focused on our Policy and Action that has been developed democratically by our grassroots membership.

That is one reason NDFU is such an effective voice at the legislature. We are most successful, however, when members play an active role in the legislative process.”

She explained that members have the opportunity to receive weekly legislative updates by e-mail. “Just let us know and we’ll send you the “Stand Up, Speak Out” publication each Friday.

We also invite you to share your story with your elected representatives. Talk to them when they are home on the weekends, and attend or host town hall meetings. E-mail, write or call your legislators any time. You can also visit the capitol and testify during a hearing. Don’t be afraid to speak up and talk about your experiences. NDFU can help you understand the process and get involved.”

Carlson said that all North Dakotans should learn about the process and find out what happens at the state legislature. “The legislature’s actions in these three months will affect your farming and ranching operation, your school, your taxes, your roads and bridges, the state’s landscape and our future. It’s important to know how its actions become laws and how to become involved in that process.” s

Meet the NDFU Legislative Team

Woody Barth, NDFU President

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Kristi Carlson kcarlson@ndfu.org

Richard Schlosser rschlosser@ndfu.org

Mark Watne Staff Executive Director

Pam Musland pmusland@ndfu.org

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Weible testifies at the Capitol

BY AMANDA MARTIN, NDFU

The legislative session is in full swing, and many bills have been introduced including house bill 1145, the fire insurance tax distribution fund. Members from McLean County traveled to the Capitol on January 16 and county president Wes Weible testified in support of the fire insurance tax distribution fund.

Weible said, “ I wanted to testify in support of this bill, because our small towns with volunteer based fire departments and ambulances struggle. I am part of the Turtle Lake community and I know how much work our volunteer firefighters put in, and they don’t get paid. The costs the departments cover when answering a fire call are very high.”

The fire insurance tax distribution fund is a special fund in the state treasury. It is related

to the use of insurance premium tax collections for firefighting.

More money is needed in many communities in North Dakota, because a majority of these fire departments are volunteer based.

The bill states that the insurance premium tax collections will be distributed to fire districts through the insurance commissioner.

The insurance commissioner will distribute $800,000 per biennium to the North Dakota’s firefighter’s association. In addition, funds up to $50,000 per biennium, as necessary to the firefighters death benefit fund.

The bill also supports the emergency medical services, by putting more money into the fund through insurance tax distribution, similar to the fire insurance tax distribution fund.

Weible stated, “I am in favor of this bill, because it will help

Wes Weible testified for Bill 1145.

our state’s fire departments and emergency medical services.

There seemed to be no opposition while testifying, and many fire departments, emergency medical services, and police came to support the bill. It was packed in the room.” s

Learn more about the process Basics on bills:

Bills create, amend, or repeal law. To become law, a bill must have a public hearing before legislative committees, must be publicly voted upon by the committees, and then must come before the full House of Representatives or Senate for final vote.

The bill must pass the House of Representatives and the Senate by a majority vote of the members in each house, then sent to the governor for approval. If the governor vetoes the bill, it can still become law with 2/3 vote in both houses.

The Legislature also considers resolutions. Resolutions propose constitutional amendments, express opinions, request studies by committees meeting between sessions, and congratulate or console; they do not have the effect of law.

NDFU General Counsel and Director of Government Relations, Kristi Schlosser Carlson explained, “Additionally, citizens themselves can directly create a law via the Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

initiated measure process, which is laid out in the North Dakota constitution.”

All citizens may testify before the North Dakota Legislative Assembly on any bill or resolution.

First, find out when and where a certain bill will be heard.

Lists of the bills, committees, committee members, and the days and places committees meet are available online at www.legis.nd.gov and can be viewed on the monitors.

• Anyone present at a hearing usually gets a chance to speak, but sometimes it is not possible because of large turnouts.

Tips for Testifying:

• Legislators are your neighbors who want to hear what you have to say; they may ask you questions as well.

According to the State of North Dakota’s website, there are some tips on how to testify: • Plan your testimony, and if you know others testifying, try to coordinate with them.

• It is helpful but not necessary to have written copies of your comments available.

• The first people to testify will be the bill’s sponsors, followed by those in favor of the bills and then by those opposed to the bill.

• If you do not get a chance to testify, you can always submit written testimony.

• Do not be nervous or worried about doing something wrong.There are no “rights and wrongs” about testifying.

• Be respectful in your comments and while you are listening to others.

• When finished, you can stay to hear committee debate. If the committee doesn’t vote then, the vote will be published in the next days. s Check out the www.legis.nd.gov for additional tips.

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How a bill becomes a law

Bill preparation

Bills are usually prepared by the Legislative Council for introduction by a legislator. If a bill is not prepared by the Legislative Council, the bill must be reviewed by the Legislative Council office for proper form and style.

Bill introduction

After opening a session, the presiding officer calls for an introduction of bills. Any legislator may hand the bill to the bill clerk.

Bill number assignment

The bill clerk assigns a number to the bill and the Chief Clerk of the House or the Secretary of the Senate reads the bill by title only (first reading of the bill - 9th order)

Committee assignment & introduction The presiding officer refers the bill to the proper committee. In committee, the bill is explained and discussed.

Public input

Public hearings are held on every bill.

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Committee report & recommendation

The full committee may: • Report the bill unfavorable or favorable, with or without amendment; or • Request the bill’s re-referral to another committee with or without any amendment.

Each committee reports to the House or Senate on the bills that have been referred to the committee.

Calendar placement & consideration

All bills, regardless of type of committee report, will be placed on the calendar for final passage.

If the committee recommends an amendment, it is placed on the calendar and adopted or rejected before the bill is placed on the calendar.

Floor debate

When a bill comes up, the bill is read again and can be passed or defeated. It is debated on the House or Senate floor.

Chamber & second house consideration After debate the bill is passed or defeated. If passed, the bill

is delivered (messaged) to the other house.If the second house passes the bill in the same form, the bill is enrolled, signed by presiding officers, and sent to the Governor. If the second house amends and then passes the bill, it is sent back to the first house for concurrence. If the first house does not concur, the presiding officers of both houses appoint a conference committee.

Conference committee

The conference committee makes recommendations to both houses and both houses must approve the bill.

Enrollment

The bill then is enrolled, signed by the presiding officers, and sent to the Governor. If signed or if forwarded to the Secretary of State without being signed, the bill becomes law.

Veto override or by vote If vetoed, the bill can still become a law by a 2/3 vote in both houses. A bill, once passed, may be repealed, whole or in part, through a vote of the electorate– a referendum. A law also may be proposed and acted upon by the electorate by means of an initiated measure. s

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

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What you need to know about oil and gas leasing North Dakota Farmers Union provided a breakout session at the 2012 state convention on mineral rights and how modern drilling techniques are changing the impact on surface and mineral owners and how legal agreements and forms need to account for some of the changes.

From various questions at the convention, to various questions asked on NDFU’s oil field bus trips, we have compiled some of the most common questions and answers to assist mineral and surface owners. Many of the concerns have changed from leasing questions to surface damage agreements and pipeline easements.

Additional questions and topics will be published in the future and everything will be posted on www. ndfu.org. We are also exploring the possibility of hosting educational meetings for members and guests later this winter or early spring.

These questions and answers are not a substitute for legal advice. Persons are urged to seek professional counsel for answers to their specific questions.

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It turns out that my father had another child years ago that no one knew about but him. He paid child support to the mother for years, but there was never any adoption completed. This child recently called and now wants a share of the oil well that my brothers and sister are sharing royalties in. Now what?

You need to determine who owns the mineral rights. If your father’s will divided his mineral rights among all of his children, that needs to be understood. If your father had no will, North Dakota intestate succession law will need to be followed to determine current ownership of the mineral rights.

If your father gifted or sold the mineral rights to specific children, his other children are likely NOT to have any current ownership in the mineral rights. Contact an attorney to help determine what happened to your father’s mineral rights.

How do I know that one of these horizontal legs from an oil well two miles away from my farm isn’t sucking the oil and gas from my mineral acres?

Oil and gas production is highly regulated under North Dakota law that is administered by the Industrial Commission. Oil and gas producers are required to report their activities to the Industrial Commission and much of this information is public. The information is available at the Industrial Commission web site: https://www.dmr.nd.gov/oilgas/.

The location of the horizontal bores also is a matter of public record: https://www.dmr.nd.gov/OaGIMS/ viewer.htm.

Much of the oil being produced in western North Dakota is found in shale and thus does not easily move. With current production and fracking technology and practices, oil is drawn from an area approximately 300 feet along a horizontal bore; that is, a horizontal bore captures oil from a swath approximately 600 feet wide.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

If a horizontal bore has not accessed your mineral rights, your minerals are not being captured or produced.

I received a division order in the mail saying I am to receive .00025 share of a well on mineral acres I own. I don’t think that is right. How do I find out if that is correct?

Mineral rights are a matter of public record. You need to make sure you know what mineral rights you own. The percentage reflects your mineral rights in the 1,280 acre spacing unit.

The oil company that drilled on our land is holding up our royalty payments because they need a certified death certificate on my grandfather who died 40 years ago.

Why is that any of their business?

The oil company needs to know who currently owns the mineral rights. If grandpa owned the mineral rights at one time and the public record does not indicate how the rights transferred at the time of his death, steps need to be taken to update the public record of ownership in the county Register of Deeds. A death certificate is one such document to reveal the transfers to the current owners.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

My brother says that if the oil company doesn’t pay royalties in six months after the well is drilled, the company has to pay us an 18% interest penalty. The oil company says we are not entitled to any royalty until my father’s estate is settled.

Who do I believe?

Until your father’s estate is settled, mineral ownership is not clearly documented. The estate must be settled to determine current ownership. Once current ownership is clarified, the oil company is required to make the necessary payment of royalties.

My lease spells out various conditions for surface damages, payment for crop loss, placement of pipelines and tanks and other similar clauses. Why does this matter to me if I don’t own any surface acres or own the surface where the well is drilled?

These terms in a mineral lease are not important to someone who owns ONLY mineral rights.

Horizontal drilling, as well as severed mineral rights lead to the situation your are describing.

Negotiate to revise the mineral lease (if it has not yet been signed) to remove unnecessary language.

North Dakota Department of Trust Lands is responsible for managing state-owned resources, including mineral rights owned by the state. A sample of the mineral lease used by the Department of Trust Land is available (see http://www.land.nd.gov/minerals/ Docs/leaseform.pdf). This lease is mentioned, not as a recommended mineral lease for mineral owners, but as an example that mineral owners may want to study as they prepare to negotiate with mineral developers.

Consider including a statement in the mineral lease which states that the mineral lease pertains only to mineral rights and that a subsequent agreement will be necessary to compensate for surface damages, in accordance with North Dakota law.

An oil company wants to run three pipelines across my land to gather oil, salt water, and natural gas. Can I prevent this, or ask for more compensation than they are offering?

This firm is likely seeking an easement to construct and operate pipelines to connect the wells and thereby reduce trucking costs and truck traffic in the community.

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Finding answers to common

As with any easement, the surface owner can grant the easement, but what is the solution if the surface owner is unwilling to grant the easement or is holding out for more compensation?

In some states, the mineral developer may rely on the dominant nature of the mineral estate relative to the surface easement. However in North Dakota, state law apparently grants the mineral developer the power of eminent domain for a pipeline. See N.D.C.C. 49-19-01 and 49-19-12 at http://www.legis.nd.gov/cencode/ t49c19.pdf “Every person: 1. Owning, operating, or managing any pipeline or any part of any pipeline within this state for the transportation of crude petroleum, gas, … or carbon dioxide to or for the public for hire, or engaged in the business of transporting crude petroleum, gas …is a common carrier…

“Every common pipeline carrier … has … the right and power of eminent domain in the exercise of which it may enter upon and condemn the land, right of way, easements, and property of any person necessary for the construction, maintenance, or authorization of its pipeline.”

As stated in N.D.C.C. Chap.

32-15 at http://www.legis.nd.gov/ cencode/t32c15.pdf (the law on how eminent domain is exercised), a jury is available to determine the amount of compensation if the parties do not reach a negotiated settlement. The availability of a jury as the final solution provides the parties a level of protection if a negotiated settlement cannot be reached. It does not appear that North Dakota Surface Damages statutes (N.D.C.C. chap. 38-11.1) apply to disputes involving pipeline easement, but the Department of Agriculture Mediation Service might be available for the surface owner (N.D.C.C. 6-09.10-04 at http://www. legis.nd.gov/cencode/t06c09-10.pdf).

A concern is whether the surface owner adequately considers the impact of pipelines on surface user, such as the farmer or rancher who leases from the surface owner. Surface owners may want to consult with their tenant before finalizing a settlement with a pipeline company.

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I don’t own any mineral acres, but the oil company wants to drill a well on my land. They are offering a “surface owner agreement” and will pay me a one-time payment of $5000 for about five acres. Is this fair?

Shouldn’t I get some annual payment for as long as the well is producing? Do I still have to pay taxes on these acres, and does it change the taxable valuation of my land?

North Dakota law addresses this question somewhat differently from several other oil & gas producing states.

North Dakota law requires that surface owners be compensated for damages caused by oil & gas production. See N.D.C.C. chap.

38-11.1 at http://www.legis.nd.gov/ cencode/t38c11-1.pdf. More specifically, the purpose of the law is to compensate surface owners and users for damages to and interference with the use of their property caused by oil and gas development.

The law specifies two types of damages: 1. Damage and disruption. The mineral developer must pay the surface owner for damages sustained by the surface owner and tenant for a) lost land value, b) lost use of and access to the surface owner’s land, and c) lost value of improvements caused by drilling operations.

• “Drilling operations” means a) drilling an oil and gas well, b) subsequent production and completion operations, and c) oil and gas exploration activities.

• The amount of damages may be determined by mutual agreement between the surface owner and the mineral developer.

• Payments under this law are intended to compensate the surface owner for damage and disruption.

• The payments contemplated by this law only cover land directly affected by drilling operations.

• The surface owner must be compensated for harm caused by exploration only by a single sum payment.

2. Loss of Production. The mineral developer must pay the surface owner for damages sustained by the surface owner and tenant for loss of agricultural production caused by oil and gas production and completion operations.

• “Agricultural production” means the production of any grass or crop and the production of any farm animals.

• The amount of damages may be determined by mutual agreement between the surface owner and the mineral developer.

• Payments under this law are intended to compensate the surface owner for loss of production.

• The damages for loss of production must be paid annually unless the surface owner elects to receive a single lump sum payment.

For both types of damages, in the absence of an agreement between the surface owner and a farming tenant as to the division of compensation, the tenant is entitled to recover from the surface owner that portion of the compensation attributable to the tenant’s share of the damages.

The mineral developer must provide: a) a 7-day notice before entering the land for activities that do not disturb the surface (e.g., inspections, staking, surveys, measurements, and general evaluation) and b) at least a 20-day notice before commencing drilling operations. The notice for drilling operations must include: • a plan of work and operations to enable the surface owner to evaluate the effect of drilling operations on the surface owner’s use of the property; • a plat map showing the location of the proposed well; • information advising the surface owner of the surface owner’s rights and options under North Dakota law; and • a written offer of settlement to compensate for damages.

The person offered compensation may accept or reject any offer. If the person rejects the offer of compensation from the mineral developer, that Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

questions on gas/oil leasing person may bring a court action for compensation.

Bottom line: it is up to you to: 1) decide whether the offer is adequate and 2) use North Dakota law to establish the parameters for negotiating compensation from the mineral developer.

The North Dakota Department of Agriculture offers a mediation service to help resolve disputes between surface owners and mineral developers. See N.D.C.C. 6-09.10-04. Valuation of your remaining land for tax purposes is resolved by local government.

A company wants to mine sand and gravel from my farm. I don’t own the mineral rights. Can someone else sell the gravel out from under me?

Yes, but remember that North Dakota state law treats sand, gravel and clay differently from other minerals. Under North Dakota state law, sand, gravel and clay are usually retained with the surface rights. Be sure to check the public record to determine ownership of the rights to sand, gravel and clay.

If the rights to sand, gravel and clay have not be explicitly separated from the surface rights, the current surface owner should still own and control those specific minerals.

I hear of families who “put the minerals in a trust” in advance of any drilling on their mineral acres. What is the advantage of that? Are they trying to avoid taxes? If it is in a trust, who makes the decision on leasing or selling the mineral acres? Can these ever be changed?

They are probably trying to manage estate and gift taxes. The trustee makes the management decisions but the family member who owns the property and establishes the trust chooses who will serve as trustee. Trusts can be modified if the person who established the trust retains that authority. Retaining that authority, however, can impact estate and gift taxes. Consult an estate planning professional.

These questions and answers are not a substitute for legal advice. Persons are urged to seek professional counsel for answers to their specific questions.

I signed a lease and received $100,000 for the bonus. How is that taxed for state and federal taxes. Can I offset this with any expenses and what kinds of costs can I deduct?

Can I spread this income over several years since this is a three-year lease?

Work with your tax advisor.

Generally the income will be reported in the year it is received.Your tax advisor can help you identify whether you have any expenses associated with this mineral lease.

Generally, there are few expenses, other than professional fees incurred in clarifying your ownership of mineral rights and entering into the mineral lease. s Compiled by Dale Enerson, North Dakota Farmers Union; Responses prepared by David Saxowsky, Department of Agribusiness & Applied Economics, North Dakota State University, Sept. 2012.

If oil or salt water leaked from a well that I am receiving royalties from, but don’t own any surface acres, am I partially responsible for cleaning up and restoring the land?

No, the operation of the well and any liabilities arising from the operation are the responsibility of the oil company and the well’s co-owners. As a mineral owner receiving a royalty payment due to a mineral lease, you most likely are not considered a co-owner of the oil & gas well.

The North Dakota Department of Health is responsible for regulating activities that give rise to water quality issues. However, the North Dakota Industrial Commission is responsible for regulating the disposal of salt water in deep wells.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

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Cowboy Hall of Fame to offer free admission to children on Wednesdays

Meaningful partnerships are the foundation for success – especially when that success involves youth and education.

The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame (NDCHF) and North Dakota Farmers Union Insurance (NDFUI) entered in a new partnership allowing kids to get into the NDCHF free on Wednesdays during the 2013 summer season.

This collaboration is a natural blend for the two organizations.

Both support the western way of life and the youth of North Dakota.

Together, we will present North Dakota’s “Western Legends.”

“We are excited to have this new partnership with NDFUI. The ability to expose the rich western heritage within the NDCHF to the youth who come through our doors is important.” said Ray Morrell, NDCHF Executive Director. “This collaboration will allow us to expand that reach and continue to sustain our heritage and culture.”

At NDCHF, the Center of Western Heritage & Cultures is the premier interpretive center.

Located in Medora, it hosts three interpretative galleries (Native American, Ranching and Rodeo) as well as the Hall of Honorees where NDCHF inductees are

enshrined. Each Wednesday from mid-May through mid-September, kids visiting the Medora Center with their families will be granted free access to the award winning facility.

“Farmers Union works to develop leadership and citizenship skills in our youth through the knowledge of rural issues, knowing the history of North Dakota ranching and western way of life is an important step,” said Woody Barth, NDFU President. “NDFU has had a long history supporting NDCHF and this takes our partnership to a new level.”

State sales director, Kevin Ressler helped coordinate the latest endeavor. He said, “The ability of our two organizations to collectively reach out through the youth was an easy step in serving our members and North Dakota.

They are our future.”

Visitors to the NDCHF learn of the integration of the horse through the different cultures, experience the impact of the tribal nations through the settling of the Dakotas, how the trail drives spawned ranches in the region and how those ranches caused the friendly competition we know as rodeo.

The upper floor Hall of Honorees showcases photos and biographies of the local legends inducted into the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame.

The stories and interpretations within the walls of the Medora Center serve as a spotlight of the individual accomplishments and success of notable North Dakota figures. Their influence may have been shared in the many stories spoken at the family supper table, gatherings or chores.

The NDFUI and NDCHF sponsored ‘Western Wednesday’ experience coincides with the ongoing promotion by the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation in which several attractions in Medora are free for kids on Wednesday.

For more information, to join or to learn of the inductees to the NDCHF log on to: www. northdakotacowboy.com s

CENTER OF WESTERN HERITAGE & CULTURES: NATIVE AMERICAN RANCHING AND RODEO IN MEDORA, ND

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Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Insurance becomes star partner

BY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

During the state FFA convention in Bismarck last month, North Dakota Farmers Union Insurance agents and NDFU member relations specialist Chelsey Thronson worked at a booth to hand out free items to participants.

interests in a broad range of career pathways.

“Financially backing FFA and agricultural education creates critical educational opportunities for our students as they grow and learn about the science, business and technology of agriculture,” said national FFA Foundation executive director Rob Cooper.

“Corporate and individual donations help ensure our students will become leaders with the core skills necessary to help feed a growing

world population, put an end to hunger at home and abroad and meet the needs for food, fiber and renewable energy in ways that preserve natural resources.”

FFA has provided leadership, personal growth and career success training through agricultural education to 557,318 student members in grades seven through 12 who belong to one of 7,498 local FFA chapters throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. s

Calling all 7th & 8th graders

NDFU would like to invite you to the first annual

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Camp Kick-Off

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North Dakota Farmers Union Insurance is proud to be a star partner for the North Dakota FFA Foundation. As a partner, NDFUI provides financial support for the organization.

According to Tamra Maddock, assistant FFA director, “FFA and Team Ag Ed are essential components of the agricultural education and agribusiness programs in high schools across the state. Donations like this help us to give teachers assistance in all facets of the classroom. We will have more resources to reach the kids and fulfill our FFA motto.”

State advisor, Aaron Anderson, added, “The contributions of star partners makes a real difference in the quality of programming we can offer our students. It allows us to provide leadership training and conferences that wouldn’t have been possible. These experiences will have a lifelong impact on the students and will help lead them to successful careers in the agriculture industry.”

The Star Partnership Program is a win-win scenario for North Dakota Farmers Union Insurance, too. Sponsorship in this program provides a connection to FFA members, over 77 FFA chapters, numerous alumni chapters and college campuses in communities throughout the state. Agricultural education is practical handson learning skills for production agriculture, agribusiness and leadership. For over half a century, FFA has been a vital part of the fabric of quality education.

Maddock said, “We are lifelong advocates for agricultural education. We’re so happy to have the commitment from Farmers Union and we appreciate the support.”

FFA is structured on three levels: local, state and national.

The letters “FFA” stand for Future Farmers of America; however, in 1988 the official name of the organization was changed to “The National FFA Organization” to reflect the growing diversity of agriculture. FFA continues to help the next generation rise up to meet those challenges by helping its members to develop their own unique talents and explore their

• food & entertainment provided • meet the 2013 summer staff • dance, movies & education on social media • transportation provided at specified points • bring: sleeping bag, blanket, pillow, personal hygiene items & change of clothes (no showers)

No charge for event but must have current Farmers Union membership which is $30/year.

Register today! Go to: ndfu.org/calendar/ Click on “Camp Kick-Off and Lock-In”

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More on marketing

A group of 22 marketing club members traveled to Fargo on Thursday, Dec. 19 to visit the new trading room at North Dakota State University.

The trading room is one of the latest additions on campus that features 32 computer stations connected to up to the minute action with the Bloomberg and DTN networks. The Bloomberg network delivers business and financial information from around the world and the DTN network specializes in providing the latest ag information.

Together, the network information may be used to create specific marketing plans and influence trading decisions.

Frayne Olson, NDSU agriculture economist, provided instruction at the trading room, giving the marketing clubs a quick lesson on how to use and process information to make informed trades.

In addition to viewing the

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The trading room at North Dakota State University features 32 computer stations connected to Bloomberg and DTN networks.

trading room, the group also toured the new NDSU greenhouse. The greenhouse is used for enhanced education and advanced research in plant breeding, genetics, horticulture, entomology, plant pathology, plant nutrition and associated disciplines.

The Foster County marketing club led by Steve Metzger, a

farm management instructor from Carrington, and Joel Lemer, a county agent, teamed up with the marketing club from Eddy County led by county agent Tim Becker, to organize the trip. North Dakota Farmers Union and Arrowwood Farmers Union Co-op provided transportation on the NDFU bus. s

Fourth grade students throughout the state of North Dakota are learning how their food gets from the farmer’s fields to the grocery store shelves during special “Living Ag” classes. North Dakota Farmers Union staff provide instruction for the program. NDFU helps sponsor and operate the classroom across the state, with games and displays showing the step-by-step process.

The Living Ag Classroom

has taught over 16,000 students, teachers and parents learn about the food chain since its inception.

The Living Ag Classroom illustrates the production and distribution of our food along with the many by-products of crops and animals that are raised in North Dakota.

This year’s classes began with the KMOT Ag Show in Minot on Jan. 23 and 24. Upcoming sessions include the KFYR Ag Expo in Bismarck on Feb. 12-13 and in Fargo on Mar. 8. s

Living Ag Classes begin

Farmers Union staff member Mary Mertens taught a Living Ag class at the Jamestown Ag Show in January.

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Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Cooperative education at its best...

Quentin Burdick Center continues to grow

BY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

As global markets grow and technology changes the way business is done, leadership is more important than ever and that’s one area the Quentin Burdick Center for Cooperatives can help.

Located at North Dakota State University, the Quentin Burdick Center for Cooperatives was created in 1992. The QBCC conducts, promotes and coordinates university education and research on cooperatives.

The center helps to strengthen cooperative operations and works toward expanding employment and economic opportunities.

Center director, Gregory McKee, explained, “The center is a visible resource for cooperatives.

There are over 400 co-ops located in North Dakota. I want to do whatever I can to foster relationships and help with research, training and education.”

Through academic education, QBCC creates a pool of university graduates who thoroughly understand cooperative philosophy, principles and management strategies. The center is also involved in providing in-service, executive-level training for directors and management. By spreading the word about cooperative business systems, QBCC fulfills the traditional role of a land grant university and coordinates activities with other organizations and agencies in the region. In some areas it takes on a leadership role, while in others it plays a supportive role. One area of particular interest to McKee is in research. “I love to do research but I also want to do it for something that really matters and makes a difference on the bottom line,” he said.

One of his research projects was an economic impact study completed in 2011. McKee, explained, “Cooperatives are a vital component of the North Dakota economy. Owned by their customers or by privatelyheld firms, cooperatives provide a variety of goods and services Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

NDFU President Woody Barth met with Gregory McKee at the Quentin Burdick Center for Cooperatives at North Dakota State University.

to North Dakota including electricity, telecommunications, farm inputs and other services.

It was interesting to research the economic contributions to the state.

Besides their economic output, cooperatives provide jobs, wages and tax revenue to the state.

McKee’s research quantified the impact of cooperatives on the North Dakota economy. Other research projects have included impact assessment studies, creation of benchmark state averages, comparisions and start-up recommendations.

Another exciting opportunity is the online coursework offered through NDSU. Course topics include the origins of cooperative businesses, cooperative business management and governance and

cooperative business finance.

“We’re taking education to a new level. Some students have some misconceptions when it comes to cooperatives and we’re helping them think outside the box. Our classes can look at different business models and have conversations on how to get things done using the cooperative model,” added McKee. Courses are available online and at NDSU, Dickinson State University, Lake Region College in Devils Lake, Minot State Univeristy and the University of North Dakota. The center also offers individualized training sessions for cooperatives, members and directors. s 15

Town Saves Historic Opera House

This old ticket stub was found during the renovation of the Opera House.

Building to be social hub in Maddock 16

BY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

Some people wanted to tear it down but a group of concerned residents rallied the community to save the Maddock Opera House.

“We knew we needed to have a plan and a purpose.

We couldn’t just save it just because we could,” explained Paul Backstrom, the Opera House board secretary and volunteer. “We started talking and eventually everything was worked out. We decided to move the library over and put in a supper club during evening hours and also a coffee shop. We wanted a small, smoke-free bar, too. The upstairs could be finished and used for many public events including performances, plays, wedding receptions and events. The basement could be used for a game room or overflow.”

“Our ultimate goal was to enhance community life,” said Maddock Economic Development Director Erin Markestad, “We want this place to be the social hub of the town. The community has been very supportive and our plans have all come together.”

The City of Maddock owns the library and will continue operating from the new location. The supper club is subleased to Minnewaukan restaurant owner, Rick Koth.

“We want people to spend more time together and have a place to gather,” Backstrom, said. “We’ve had a great bunch of people to work this out. When we first started, we traveled to Ellendale and Lisbon to see their opera houses.

We talked to two interior designers and that helped us a lot.

We also have a retired attorney on our board who helped with research and paperwork.”

Members of the association and community donated over 2,000 hours of work to renovate the opera house. Volunteers removed ceiling beam tin, leveled the floor, installed support beams, framed in walls, applied sheetrock, taped and textured walls, painted, installed partitions, completed carpentry and metal shop work, cleaned and hauled out debris. Other people worked with the interior designer, raised money and communicated with contractors, vendors and selected items.

The group was also awarded six grants including a $62,000 gift from USDA and $45,000 from the Bremer Foundation. In total, over $650,000 was donated from grants,

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

The community of Maddock rallied to save the Maddock Opera House and initiated a major building renovation.

A special Chrismas event was held in December.

Economic Development Director Erin Markestad helped facilitate the project and wrote several funding grants.

individuals and businesses.

In December of 2012, the restaurant was officially named “Harriman’s” and the bar was christened “The Bobcat.” A special Christmas dessert theatre event was held Dec. 21-23 to open up the nearly finished first floor of the opera house. It was a sold out event. In the last two years, during October 2011 and 2012, the Dakota Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

The second floor stage will be a great asset for the new facility.

Extensive work was completed within the building.

Work will continue in the upstairs and basement.

Air Show from Fargo played to full houses of about 300 people on the second floor even though renovation there has only begun.

The Harriman name was taken from the building’s history. In 1905, the Opera House, located on the second floor, opened as a dance hall/theatre by L.W. Harriman. The first floor housed a department store. Over the years, the first floor

was also used as a hardware store and a co-op grocery store. The entire building eventually closed in 2001.

Lee Hagen, retired attorney and current board member for the Opera House, concluded, “Today, the Maddock Opera House stands tall as a great reminder of the past and as an inspiration for a successful present and future.” s 17

THE

AROUND STATE

Mark Your Calendars: Stay tuned for more information about a big event coming up on March 9, 2013 in Bismarck with the Bobcats and the Big Brother/Big Sister program!

North Dakota Farmers Union Insurance agent Al Weigel of Napoleon recently presented a check on behalf of Farmers Union Service Association to the Napoleon Care Center.

BELOW: Chahinkapa Zoo Director Kathy Diekman accepted a donation from Wahpeton area Farmers Union Insurance Agent Kyle DeVries.

Thank you to Evelyn from Bowman/Slope

Bowman/Slope County Farmers Union would like to thank Evelyn Nielson for her 38 years as the board’s secretary/ treasurer. Evelyn has been a vital part of the organization sharing her time, knowledge and wisdom. Evelyn has been a member of North Dakota Farmers Union all her life. She attended many Farmers Union camps and the All States camp in Colorado. In her youth, three day camps were held at the Star School northwest of Bowman (the rural school she attended) where her mother Alice, cooked the meals and Mrs. J.J. Sedevie was the camp director. She received her Torchbearer award when she was in high school. She and her husband, Olie, were active in the county Farmers Union along with their children Lori, Lynn and Loren. She became secretary/treasurer in 1974, volunteering her time for day classes, blood drives and everything else!

The state FFA convention was held in Bismarck at the Ramkota in January. North Dakota Farmers Union Insurance District Manager Dave Murphy and agents Lance Boyer, Chuck Wolfgram and NDFU staff Chelsey Thronson handed out brochures about job opportunities with Farmers Union along with microfiber towels.

The Brad Greff Farmers Union Insurance agency held a farm safety class on Jan. 14. Over 70 local policyholders were in attendance to learn about safety precautions on the farm.

Alliance Ag raises money for pantry Alli the cow, the mascot from Alliance Ag in Hettinger, helped raise money for the Food Pantry over the holidays. Through the efforts of Alliance Ag, $2,000 was donated along with a matching $2,000 grant from the Land O Lakes Foundation. The school’s food drive gathered 365 cans, boxes of stuffing, potatoes and more miscellaneous items to stock the shelves. Over 60 children participated and got to visit with Alli who was dressed up like Santa Claus during a classroom visit.

18

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Let’s have a

K L A T P O SH

Invite your neighbors, ers! friends and fellow farm

ges, a s Union will bring bevera er rm Fa ta ko Da rth No A staff member from , the fun. few snacks and of course event is flexible on be held in a “shop” – the to ed ne t no do lks Ta ers Union Shop n’t even need to be Farm do es de ten At . on ati t loc date, time and ideas and concerns abou er off to g llin wi be st mu members, however, they agriculture. to schedule a ion specialist in your area lat re er mb me the ll ca Feel free to ranch now!

Shop Talk at your farm or Megan Berger

rke, Divide, lley, Bowman/Slope, Bu Va en old s/G ling Bil s, Adam ms ie, Mountrail, Stark, Willia Dunn, Hettinger, McKenz e-mail: mberger@ndfu.org -5499 701-952-0128 or 701-580

Chelsey Thron

so

n Burleigh, Dickey, Emmons, Foster , Grant, Kidder, LaMoure , Logan, McIntos h, Mercer, Morton, Oliver, Sioux, St utsman e-mail: cthronso n@ndfu.org 701-952-0131 or 701-400-5431 Amanda Martin

Henry, Benson, Bottineau, Eddy, Mc nville, Rolette, Re ey, ms Ra , McLean, Pierce Sheridan, Towner, Ward, Wells e-mail: amartin@ndfu.org 701-952-0129 or 701-771-0053

Forks, rtens Mary Meass, Cavalier, Grand som,

C Ran Barnes, embina, P , n o ls ill, Walsh e Griggs, N argent, Steele, Tra ,S Richland ndfu.org merens@ -791-1561 m : il a -m e 8 130 or 21 701-952-0

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Sign up now to participa te!

19

Touring

Alaska

in 2013

August 6-17

Day 4: This morning, set out for There’s still time to book your cashmere. Then, visit the Gray an exciting full day adventure, adventure into Alaska with North Owl Farm to see the perennial searching for the wildlife that call Dakota Farmers Union. gardens and greenhouses. At the Denali home. Travel the entire 95According to Jeff Willer, NDFU Colony House Museum, learn mile restricted Denali Park Road transportation coordinator, “This about the Matanuska Colony offering the most opportunities to will be a trip of a lifetime. Let us families and visit one of the original view wildlife and experience the do all the planning and take the farm homes built by the pioneers. stunning beauty of the park. Listen worry out of your trip. This is Due to an extraordinary growing as a naturalist provides informative a customized trip planned just season (19 hours of summer narration about your surroundings, for NDFU and it will be a great daylight), the giant size of some and the natural history of the park. opportunity to see parts of Alaska vegetables have become this After lunch, try gold panning or that normally are not included in area’s trademark. A visit to the take a guided nature trail walk typical tours.”

Mat Valley Agricultural Showcase before returning back to Set for August 6-17, you your Denali hotel. will journey into the pristine waters of the Great Land Day 5: Enjoy some with Princess Cruises, voted of Alaska’s most the “Best Cruise Line in spectacular scenery via Alaska” five consecutive deluxe motorcoach to years by readers of Travel Whittier where you will Weekly. embark the ship, to begin From soaring a seven-night Princess snowcapped mountain cruise aboard a fabulous peaks to magnificent glacierfloating resort. rimmed fjords and colorful marine life, members can Day 6 - 11: Cruise past see it all on an Alaskan NDFU hosted a travel show about the Alaska tour and more the mammoth Hubbard cruise with Princess. The than 25 people attended. Kent Van Roeckel from Collette Glacier, one of Alaska’s cruise will offer dazzling vacations presented information on the excursion. advancing glaciers. See glacier-viewing opportunities amazing natural sights through and visits to charming Alaska Garden, the most colorful spot in Glacier Bay, a spectacular national ports.

Palmer in summer, features some park and preserve that is a Day 1: The tour begins in of these Alaska-sized flowers and treasure trove of tidewater glaciers Anchorage, Alaska. vegetables on display. Experience and scenic coastal islands. See a “farm-to-table” lunch featuring the Skagway and relive Alaska’s Day 2: See the Matanuska Alaska grown ingredients and Gold Rush days in this “Gateway Colony; what began as an tour Havemeister Dairy Farm. The to the Klondike” and home of the ambitious farming experiment Havemeisters own and operate famed Chilkoot Trail. See Juneau, put Alaska on the map and one of the few remaining dairies in the capitol city, and Ketchikan, cultivated the Mat-Su Valley as South central Alaska. Later, travel known as the “Salmon Capitol of Alaska’s agricultural heartland. to Talkeetna, a quaint town that the World” and the “City of Totems” Meet some of Alaska’s oldest serves as the jumping off point for – the largest collection of totem residents at the Musk Ox Farm.

Mt. McKinley climbing expeditions poles.

Learn about how the underwool for an overnight stay. of these magnificent animals is Day 12: Arrive in Vancouver, woven into quiviut, a fiber that is Day 3: Enjoy a scenic motorcoach B.C.where the trip ends. s warmer than wool and finer than ride to Denali National Park.

20

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

More than 55 North Dakota Farmers Union members traveled to southwest United States for an 18 day excursion trip in January.

From Wyoming to New Mexico to California, the group saw a wide variety of sites. Some of the highlights included seeing the Carlsbad Cavern National Park, Birdcage Theater, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam, Disneyland and Alcatraz.

San Xavier Mission, Tucson

Universal St

udios

Old Tucson

Disneyland

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Biosphere

Floating m

arble ball,

2

Disneyland 21

Emma Rosie’s

Homecookin ...

BY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

By the time Emma Kleingartner was 16 years old, she knew what she wanted to do when she grew up. Years later, she has her dream job as owner of a catering business called Emma Rosie’s Homecookin’.

“I started cooking when I was about 14 years old by working my way through the Stutsman County Homemaker’s cookbook, and after I helped out a local caterer, I knew for sure. It gave me such a rush being around the kitchen, bringing in food and making people happy. It was fun to be part of the event,” Kleingartner remembered.

“When my grandparents died, I prepared traditional German-Russian dishes for their funerals and had a lot of positive feedback. I was still only a teenager at the time, but I was pretty focused. That was kind of a turning point for me,” she said.

Originally from Buchanan, she left for Bismarck to attend business college and returned to Jamestown and got married. For a time, Kleingartner worked parttime for Youth for Christ and parttime at her business. “I started out slow. My husband, Alex, my 22

parents and my in-laws were all very supportive. They all had faith that I could do it,” she added.

And she did. In 2009, Kleingartner moved her business into Jamestown Livestock, running the kitchen there on Tuesdays in addition to catering. “I found out that I could do so much more with a larger kitchen,” she said. She then quit her part-time job as she needed more time to devote to catering.

In August of 2012, Kleingartner purchased a building at 324 1st Street East in Jamestown and transformed it into her own catering kitchen.

Catering is available for groups from 20-500 and Kleingartner prides herself on her willingness to create highly customized menus for special events. Food is made with fresh, quality ingredients and she limits the use of mixes and prepared foods as much as possible.

She commented,

“We truly strive to bring you delicious, high quality and wellpresented food at a reasonable price.”

Emma Rosie’s Homecookin’ won the people’s choice award in both 2009 and 2010 at an annual Jamestown Gymnastics Club fundraiser called TASTE. A people’s choice award was presented to Kleingartner at the Chocolate Fantasia at the Gladstone Inn in February 2010. Over the years, her business has blossomed: s

YEAR PEOPLE SERVED

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

1,616 3,350 5,161 6,861 10,267

Farmers Union Enterprise Leadership Couples

BY HARLEY DANIELSON, FUE COORDINATOR

About the program

A Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program was formed in 2007 with participating couples from Minnesota, WIsconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana.

The program was developed in an effort to substantiate and empower future leaders in Farmers Union in the five-state Farmers Union Enterprise region. These couples, as members of Farmers Union, are selected by their respective state presidents and are chosen by their commitment to Farmers Union, their participation, support and leadership in promoting and being a part of Farmers Union.

At our initial session, the expectations are discussed with the couples in an effort to communicate that there are expectations both ways–from them and from Farmers Union of their continued leadership involvement in the organization.

Couples gather four times a year with couples at rotating state locations, taking in various events.

The initial session starts with a summer family session which is a gathering of the participants and their families from both the current year and the new year. It’s a chance for participants to get to know the other Farmers Union Enterprise couples from their respective states, interact and learn leadership skills and gain additional knowledge about Farmers Union.

A second gathering is at one of the participating state conventions and the third gathering is at the national convention. The final gathering is to attend the Washington, D.C. fly-in during the fall. This is a chance for the group to experience lobbying.

They get to meet and interact with their state congressional representatives.

Each of the sessions involve some training with an emphasis on making the sessions interesting, fun, and a useful “tool” for the Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

participants as they go out and become involved and leaders of Farmers Union.

Some topic sessions have included leadership skill building, understanding personality profiles, public speaking, listening and conversation skills, setting goals and learning more about specific legislative topics like the farm bill and energy.

Members have also met other state presidents h y Ziesc for a question and answer d Shell m bin an E couple fro o R session and heard from a 3 FU 2012-1 e, N.D. n panel Pettibo of experts on special topics.

At each gathering we also try to plan a fun activity or entertainment.

This allows the couples to socialize in a relaxed setting and they can often learn of the lives Trent and Dawn Martin, 2011-12 FUE couple from Beulah, N.D. and farming operations of the other couples.

Currently, FUE is working with North Dakota FUE the sixth group of participants.

Leadership Couples past and Some of the accomplishments of present participants are: the members have included: 2007 – 2008 • Participation as convention Kevin and Ronda Throener delegates 2008 – 2009 • Serving as president of their Chuck and Laurie Volk county Farmers Union • Serving on the Board of Directors of their state Farmers Union • Participation in various committees • Serving as president of their state Farmers Union • Becoming youth leaders • Holding the president’s role of local gas / oil cooperatives s

2009 – 2010 Ryan and Lisa Aufforth 2010 – 2011 Christoff and Kelli Just 2011 – 2012 Trent and Dawn Martin 2012 – 2013 Robin and Shelly Ziesch 23

Winter survival for Birds

Not all birds fly south for the winter. Some birds migrate out of the state to escape the cold winter.

Others move to more heavily wooded areas. Some waterfowl will stay where is there is open water and enough food. About 30 species make their home in North Dakota throughout the year and about half of the birds survive on hibernating insects, seeds, fruits and tree buds.

Residents can help the bird population by winter feeding which helps birds survive the rigors of cold, icy and snowy weather.

Birds’ Favorite Foods:

• Goldfinch – hulled sunflower seed, oil-type sunflower seed and thistle seed • Chickadee – oil-type sunflower seed and beef suet • Evening Grosbeak – sunflower seeds of all types • Blue Jay – whole peanut kernels, sunflower seed and cracked corn • Purple Finch – oil-type sunflower seed • Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers – beef suet • White-breasted Nuthatch – beef suet • Red Polls – oil-type sunflower seed, thistle seed, beef suet • Juncos – red proso millet, oiltype sunflower seed • Brown Creeper – beef suet • Red Crossbills – oil-type sunflower seed Feeding birds is an art which must be learned through experience and observation.

On the basis of diet, birds may be roughly separated into seed eaters and insect eaters. This division is not a clear one, for 24

most birds fit into both categories at some time during their life. The use of several different feeders or combination feeders should satisfy the requirements of all.

Just as birds vary in size, shape, color, song and preferred food, so do birds differ in feeding behavior. Some feed almost exclusively in trees while other birds are nearly always on the ground.

Most common birds will visit platform feeders. Some birds, like juncos, prefer to feed on the ground on seed either kicked from platform feeders by other birds or placed on the ground for them.

Hanging tube-type feeders attract American goldfinches, chickadees and a variety of other species.

Suet attached to tree trunks in wire baskets or in other feeders is attractive to woodpeckers and starlings.

North Dakota is a good winter home for some birds including the sharptail grouse, pine siskins, brown creepers, purple finches, nuthatches, chickadees, cardinals, blue jays, woodpeckers, juncos and red crossbills. Other winter birds commonly seen in trees are the pine siskin, common redpoll and house finch. These birds eat seeds, fruit and sometimes buds.

Each species may roost together at night, and the common redpoll will also burrow into snow.

According to Janet Patton with the North Dakota State University Central Grasslands Research Extension Center, sharp-tailed grouse, gray partridge, ring-necked pheasant, and wild turkey need to find a woody, protective cover in the winter and depend upon

high-energy food like corn, wheat, sunflower and other seeds. In her article entitled, “Winter on the Coteau in North Dakota,” she gives a detailed account of the common habitats for birds.

“At night and in severe weather, grouse move from open fields to brushy areas and dig out a cavity or even dive into loose snow. Under a thick insulating layer of snow, the temperature may be warmer than the surrounding air. Ring-necked pheasants depend upon heavier brush, marshes, or ravines for roosting, sometimes burying themselves in snow.

Other insect eaters include the black-capped chickadee and brown creeper. Birds of these species often flock together while feeding, along with nuthatches, which also eat and cache seeds.

These birds are among the smallest of birds in cold regions, and have an extremely high metabolic rate, maintaining a body temperature of 104 degrees F. At night they hide in dense shrubs, huddling together in severe weather.”

To accurately identify a bird, it will help to note the surroundings in which you see the bird. This practice will also sharpen your attention to little things. Key markings and minor details are sometimes the only means of differentiating between species.

Some birds are very small, so the better your eye is, the better your chance of seeing the markings to identify that bird. Bird watching will open your eyes to the different regions of North Dakota and the changing seasons. s

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Farmers receive meager share of retail food dollar National Farmers Union (NFU) released its latest Farmer’s Share report based on calculations derived from the monthly Agriculture Prices report produced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). They compared the data with price points of common grocery food items at a local Washington, D.C., Safeway supermarket.

“It’s easy to forget the true value of our farmers and ranchers, who in some cases are only making pennies on the dollar of their goods, while we’re at our local supermarket,” said NFU President Roger Johnson.

“Our Farmer’s Share report reflects the true value that our farmers and ranchers are receiving.”

North Dakota Farmers Union President Woody Barth added, “These facts clearly illustrate how little family farmers and ranchers actually receive out of the food dollar.

No one should blame farmers and ranchers for increased costs at the grocery store.”

According to USDA’s Economic Research Service, farmers and ranchers only receive 15.8 cents of every food dollar spent by Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

consumers outside the home in the United States. Additionally, more than 80 cents of every food dollar is spent on marketing, processing, wholesaling, distribution and retailing.

Among the more startling statistics noted in the latest Farmer’s Share: • Dairy farmers received $1.81 for one gallon of fat free milk (retail price: $4.19); • Wheat farmers netted only 20 cents of the $3.59 retail price

of a loaf of bread; and • Tomato growers received a mere 53 cents per pound (retail price: $3.28).

“The Farmer’s Share shows the consumer that prices may increase in the grocery store, however the farmer is not necessarily receiving extra income. This is critical information that every consumer should be aware of,” said Johnson.

“It is also a stark reminder that U.S. family farmers and ranchers need certainty and Congress’ inability to

25

Award Winning

BY FOUNDING FARMERS RESTAURANTS

2012 was an exciting year in Washington, D.C. for Founding Farmers restaurants. Not only did we open Farmers Fishers Bakers to much success in early November, but Founding Farmers continues to draw guests from around the world. Steadfast goals, a clear mission, philosophy and standards of excellence, commitment to the best food, drink and service are just a few of the characteristics that have made our restaurant great. We are grateful to our guests for their support and our fabulous team for all their hard work and we look forward to an even bigger and better year in 2013.

Awards

• Best Brunch and Best Bartender (DC’s ‘Express Night Out’s Best Of 2012 awards) • Best American Restaurant and Best Green Business (Washington City Paper, Readers’ Choice awards) • Diners’ Choice (Open Table award) • People’s Choice (Nature’s Plate award) • Power Dining Spot of the Year

Involvement

Food Day National movement committed to health and nutrition education, while emphasizing the importance of sustainability in our food system.

Tap Project’s World Water Week UNICEF global clean water cause by donating $1 per glass of tap water they received (normally free).

National Cherry Blossom Festival Annual Charity Event Founding Farmers made our mark supporting the Pink Tie Party, the annual festival kick-off charity event to support D.C.’s year-round environment, arts/culture and community programs, events and educational initiatives.

Sugar & Champagne Annual event to support the Humane Society. Our Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie was voted ‘Guest Favorite.’

D.C. Central Kitchen Food Fight Perhaps the biggest chef-driven event of the year, Food Fight brings top celebrities and local culinary talent together for a fundraiser to leave no hungry citizens in DC.

Education

Our scholarship for sustainable hospitality, created to support a George Washington University (GW) student working towards a career in the hospitality and business worlds, is in its third successful year. Dan Simons (principal of the Founding Farmers management team, VSAG) was asked to return to teach a GW seminar on effective workplace communication and professional development.

26

The Numbers: • More than 1.2 million guests have been served in the restaurant(s) since we opened • On average, more than 1,200 guests a day dine in a Founding Farmers restaurant • We have been the Most Booked restaurant on OpenTable in the entire U.S. for 24 months running!

• We have served guests from every state in the U.S. and 23 countries • Founding Farmers remains one of the most-often reviewed U.S. restaurants • Our story has been featured or included in more than 500 different print, online and TV/video mentions including Food Network, CNN, Voice of America and many more!

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Greetings from Washington!

The National Farmers Union office is once again bustling with activity in preparation for our upcoming convention. If you haven’t already done so, please make your arrangements to travel to Springfield, MA., for the convention to be held March 2-5. The Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place has been designated as the 2013 NFU Convention hotel, and reservations need to be made by Feb. 7 in order to guarantee that you will get the Farmers Union discounted rate. For information on hotel reservations, convention registration and the tentative convention schedule, please visit www.nfu.org/ convention.

Farm Bill Update

On Jan. 1, Congress hastily passed H.R. 8, the Tax Relief Extension Act, commonly referred to as the fiscal cliff bill, which included a nine-month farm bill extension. Unfortunately, the extension only extends certain portions of the 2008 Farm Bill until Sept. 30, 2013. The legislation that passed fails to provide essential disaster aid for farmers yet continues unjustifiable direct payments. The bill also does not provide mandatory funding for the energy title, specialty crops and organic provisions, or new important programs for beginning farmers and ranchers.

NFU President Roger Johnson expressed his disappointment with the extension, noting that, “Once again, Congress has left rural America out in the cold.

An extension represents a short sighted, temporary fix that ultimately provides inadequate solutions that will leave our farmers and ranchers crippled by uncertainty.”

The extension that was finally included in the fiscal cliff bill was not the version drafted by the chairs of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, but one Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

that was developed by Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-KY., without input from agriculture leaders.

NFU will continue to work with members of Congress and all interested parties during the next Congress to ensure that a farm bill can be completed as expeditiously as possible.

NFU Policy Committee meets

The NFU Policy Committee met in Washington, D.C., Jan. 14-17 to begin revising our policy manual.

This year’s committee is comprised of Jeff Eschmeyer of Ohio (chairman), George Davis of California, Tom Wingfield of Colorado (representing Rocky Mountain Farmers Union), Daniel Truelove of Illinois, Mary Howell of Kansas, Tim Velde of Minnesota, Ronda Throener of North Dakota, and Kent McAninch of Oklahoma. The committee members are all outstanding leaders in their state/regional Farmers Union divisions and were nominated by their respective state’s president to serve on the committee.

“The Policy Committee members play a vital role in carrying on the tradition of grassroots policy formation in our organization,” said Johnson.

“The committee is tasked with reviewing our current policies and offering changes and additions for the delegates to vote on at our upcoming convention. This policy is what we will advocate for during the course of the next year.”

The committee heard from a number of White House, U.S. Department of Agriculture and Capitol Hill staff to ensure members have a broader working knowledge of current legislative issues as they revise NFU’s organizational policy. Speakers included Doug McKalip, senior policy advisor for Rural Affairs, White House Domestic Policy Council; Jonathan Coppess, chief counsel, Senate

Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry and Krysta Harden, chief of staff, U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Since Congress has not yet passed a five-year farm bill, the committee and convention delegates have another opportunity to have their voices and priorities heard,” said Johnson. “The policy will undoubtedly be focused heavily on that important piece of legislation and ensuring certainty for U.S. family farmers and ranchers.”

The January Policy Committee meeting is the first part of a twostep process. The second part of the process will take place during NFU’s annual convention in March. During the convention, any Farmers Union member may propose changes to the policy. The committee then considers those proposals and submits a final copy of the suggested policy to the elected delegates at the convention for their consideration, amendment and adoption.

NFU Seeking Interns

NFU is now accepting applications for its internship program. Summer internships are two to three months in length with an application deadline of Feb.12, 2013. Extended internships up to six months are available during the fall/winter/spring sessions.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

WFO to meet

World Farmers Organization (WFO) leaders will meet at the National Farmers Union office in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 6-8.

Robert Carlson, NFU vice president of international relations, serves as president of the WFO Board of Directors. While in Washington, the group will discuss agriculture policy ahead of its General Assembly scheduled for April in Japan.s 27

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS Classified ad space is free and available to NDFU members. Ads will run one time only.

Ads must be mailed, e-mailed or faxed. NO ADS WILL BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. Include your name, address & phone number and mail to: NDFU Classifieds PO Box 2136 • Jamestown ND 58402-2136 e-mail: bthoms@ndfu.org Fax: 701-252-6584 • 701-952-0102 Deadline is the 15th of every month.

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FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

MacDon 3600 Prairie Star Model, pull type swather; Cenex 2,200 bu. grain bin to be moved; Redekop straw chopper, fits 1680 thru 2388; 1973 900 Series 1 Versatile; truck mounted drill fill auger, could be used to fill air seeder cart; misc. parts for N6 or N7 Gleaner combine filters, belts, sickle sections and sickle guards. 228-3161, Lathan Romsos, Bottineau.

FOR SALE

IHC 50T baler; Schulte RS hyd. rock picker; F10 Farmhand w/weigh all Snoco bale loader; h.d. Russell Reliance 10’ grader; 10’ h.d. V packer; 5 bottom packer w/hitch; 8 steel grain bins w/steel floor, 1,000-12,400 bu.; 6’ JD combine w/2 cyl. motor & ground driven reel; new & used 10:00x20 truck tires; IHC 2 row hyd. cult. for H or M; Peterson dual rims, 18.4-34 to 232.1-30; Letz 163 burr mill; 11’ wide push-all hay basket for DuAll loader; push-off hay basket or DuAl loader. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.

FOR SALE

48’ steel flatbed trailer, with or without 3 1,500 gal. water tanks, would also make a good hay trailer. 542-3345 or 208-0516, Daryl Klein, Balta.

FOR SALE

Heavy duty Loftness snowblower, 9’ wide, 4’ cutting height, extra large adjustable skid shoes, 2 augers, 14” diameter chute. Chute has hydraulic gear driven adjustment, fits cat. 2 or 3 hitches, hardened steel bolt on cutting edge, #80 roller chain to run augers, rated for 150 to 200 HP tractor, 1,000 PTO, hardly been used; also have a 7.5’ Inland snowblower, it is also in like new condition, has skid plates, hydraulic spout, 540 PTO, both are 2 stage with 2 augers, make me an offer. I can email you pictures. 206-0082, Marcus Fischer, Bowman.

FOR SALE

2008 John Deere 568 baler, net & twine wrap, hyd. pickup, 6,000 bales on it, $25,000. 422-3490, Butch Jochim, Selfridge.

FOR SALE

John Deere 80 tractor, good tires, original paint, good to excellent condition; four Massey 750 combines w/headers, also with p.us, lots good new bearings and other parts; Three 8’ IHC disk drills, real good condition, been inside, also disk parts, etc. 528-4222 evenings, Alvin Haugen, Alamo.

FOR SALE

2 Vermeer 605C round balers, always shedded; 400 Versatile 20’ swather, 79 model, best offer. 626-7180, Daryl Verbitsky, Butte.

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FOR SALE

2006 Balzer 20’ corn stalk shredder/ windrower for $11,500; Degelman rock picker, 3 bat, orbit drive, $1,500; Westfield 8”x54’ grain auger, $1,000. 754-2729, Conrad Jangula, Napoleon.

FOR SALE

Sale or trade: 1850 Oliver diesel with cab and 250 dual loader, transmission weak; Super 88 Oliver, gas with 2 hyd. and 3 pt., engine shot, would trade for an M gas tractor with loader. 869-2827, Max Danner, Jamestown.

FOR SALE

JD 20’ 9350 hoe drills, transports, good shape; 1991 Case IH 1660 combine with 1015 IH pickup head, 3,740 hrs., shedded very good shape. 500-1083, Roger Black, Towner.

FOR SALE

Semi water trailers - tanks, cones, pumps, etc.; nice 53’ trailer w/rollup door and flat aluminum floor; semi storage trailers; new 36’ hopper bottom trailer; containers, chassis and converter dolly. 474-5780, www.rydelltrailers,com, Richard Rydell, Fairmount.

FOR SALE

6601 JD combine, Sund pickup,field ready, not used for several years, always shedded. 701-294-2188 or 218-556-0955, Johnnie McKelvey, Warwick.

FOR SALE

JD air seeder, 24’ 777 cart with 1060 seeding tool; 7720 JD combine and 222 straight head; all in good condition. 3028317, Kyle Alfstad, Sheyenne.

FOR SALE

Knight Little Auggie and mixer wagon w/ new bottom and augers; extension on JD unloading auger for 8’ 1860 air drill; 1 Titan Goodyear, 18-4R-38, 50% tread; 4 shallow well pumps; 2,000 gal. fuel tank. 683-4809, Phil McDaniel, Englevale.

FOR SALE

10” roller mill with 220 electric motor, $150; automatic cattle headgate, $50. 448-2687, Don Sondrol, Turtle Lake.

FOR SALE

45 Dutch Low Draft Universal openers, 3” carbide spread tip, have liquid drops now, will sell with all hose manifold and plumbing but you could set up for NH3 if wanted, these are next to new and came off Flexicoil 5000 33’ air drill. 884-2446, Terry Strobel, Denhoff.

FOR SALE

Brant 7000 70’ harrow with 5/8” teeth, less than 500 acres; Precision nylon sunflower pans, 9” spacing to fit MacDon 974 30’ flexhead; 1987 Westank 9,500 gal. aluminum tanker, used for spraying, with Honda pump and mixing cone. 693-2371, Rick Frueh, Martin.

FOR SALE

shape; 1984 4400 Versatile swather, 25’ header w/pickup reels, good shape. 5000748, Tom Krebsbach, Max. FOR SALE

1985 836 Versatile tractor with LT10-A, Cummins engine, 5,183 hrs., 4 hyds, PTO., 18.4x38 tires, always shedded; IHC 800 Cyclo planter, 8 row, 30” trailing with markers & SF, SB & corn drums, shedded. 438-2482, Milton Wisness, Maddock.

FOR SALE

MacDon 972 Harvest header, 30’ draper head with finger reel, transport wheels, adaptor for Case/IH combines, fits 1400, 1600, 66 & 88 series, new guards, sickle & canvas, mint, like new condition! Not used for the last 4 yrs. and always stored inside! Brittonya 90’ pull type sprayer, trailing boom with gauge wheels, 1,000 gal. tank, mixing cone, foam marker, auto fold from tractor with adjustable rate control, stainless steel wet booms with triplet nozzle bodies, good condition; Western 70’ four bar harrow, down pressure springs on sections, new cables, great condition. 228-4656, Paul K. Berge, Souris.

FOR SALE

Farmhand loader, Model F6012-A, complete with grapple, pump & hyd. controls, removed from WE-40 Allis Chalmers, everything works good; 1994 Buick Roadmaster, LT1, Chevy engine, leather, good tires, good MPG, $2,500 obo. 626-7415 or 626-1888. Wallace Johnson, Voltaire.

WANTED

Notill air seeder, single disk, 30’ - 40’.

701-294-2188 or 218-556-0955, Johnnie McKelvey, Warwick.

WANTED

45’ of 2 bar or 3 bar harrows for JD tool bar. 826-3811, Dale Mischke, Williston.

WANTED

Old 760 Massey (with a poor or no motor). 763-6210, J Samuel Carlson, Cleveland.

WANTED

20’ - 24’ tandem axle trailer, hauling water on, prefer a gooseneck type or bumper pull type. 528-4222 evenings, Alvin Haugen, Alamo.

WANTED

The following IH tractors - 806, 1206, 1456, 856, 1256, 1066, 1466; John Deere - 5010, 5020, 6030, 4620; Minneapolis Moline - 1350, 1355; D-21 210 Allis Chalmers. 628-2130 evenings, Jerry Lumley, Stanley.

WANTED

A wide spread or beater bar for a New Holland 327 manure spreader in good shape. 538-4471, Jim Peplinski, Lidgerwood.

Late model 116 NH haybine 1475 pump, well maintained, side shields are intact, field ready, $4,000 obo; late model 660 NH baler, newer belts, rebuilt pickup attachment, well maintained, field ready, shedded, $5,000 obo; 2001 Olds Alero 4 door, loaded, leather, V6, 140,000 mi., adult owned, garaged, very nice, $3,250 pbo. 843-7176, Craig Albers, New Salem.

WANTED

FOR SALE

Continental NH3 manifolds for a 33’ airdrill, will need 45 runs. 884-2446, Terry Strobel, Denhoff.

1992 NH TR 96 combine, 3135 sep. hrs., near new 30.5x32 tires, nice clean machine; 30’ MH 973 flexheader w/VII pickup reels and Crary air reel, good

NH 456 or 1100 IHC sickle mower, 9’ or 7’. 852-1150, Art Oen, Minot.

WANTED

Tractor tires - Co-op Agri Power, long short bar, 18.4-34 and a 16.9-34, can be any make, tires must be in good shape.

771-8957, Gary Hoffart, Knox.

WANTED

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Dell 922, all in one printer; old style revolving beer bar sign; Sears Craftsman router and 2 cutting bits; round head lights, fits Lincoln or Ford; aluminum mail box; 14 gal. gas tank on wheels; 1981 Ford Custom 4x4; 8’ gray and black fiberglass pickup topper. 228-3161, Lathan Romsos, Bottineau.

FOR SALE Horse collars & related items; 45 used utility poles, 35-50’ long; new tires: 1-10:00 R20 Dunlap steel radial SP777, 16 ply, new tube & flap; 6 Bridgestone tires 245-75-R16; 4-225/60/R16 M & S; 4 used Firestone P265/70/R16 M&S; 3 Michelin P225/60/R16 M&S; 4 Hercules Ultra 215/70 R15; 2 Co-op Ready Grip G78-15 MS studded, less than 2,000 on Ford wheels; 2 Firestone L78-15 studded; 2 P25-75 R15 Cooper Weathermaster studded, less than 2,000 mi.; 2 P125 75 R15 Goodyear studded on Ford wheels; 2 P215 75 R 15 Sears Snow Handlers.

584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.

FOR SALE Red Salant, full-size accordion, would consider trade for a women’s size accordion. 838-9285, Judy Randle, Minot.

FOR SALE 05 Denali bunkhouse 5th wheel camper, 32’ long, large basement for storage, separate bunk room with entertainment center and storage, large superslide, brand new tires, queen bed up front, sleeps 9, good condition, very clean, lots of storage inside and out. Can e-mail you pictures, $16,900 or make offer. 2060082, Marcus Fischer, Bowman.

FOR SALE 2009 Keystone Raptor 3712ts toyhauler, sleeps 12, 3 slide outs, fuel storage, Onan generator and much more, nice, clean unit. 435-2121 or 659-0705, Jessica or Matt Clemens, Wimbledon.

FOR SALE Naugahyde sofa bed couch, queen size, free; hospital bed, $75; entertainment center, $20; snow blower, $295; Schwinn Sting Ray (collector) bicycle, $150 obo.

834-2216, Glynn Thompson, Fortuna.

FOR SALE 45 years ND Outdoors history and info., all years from 1976 thru 2012, $70 obo.

282-0392 or 238-3145 leave message, Gary Lammer, West Fargo.

FOR SALE Motor, no head, bad camshaft; set of fenders for IHC H or M and a radiator.

226-9196, Peter Ebach, Menoken.

FOR SALE IH Farmall hydro 70, 5,680 hrs, 148 loader w/grapple, snow bucket & tire chains; Dakota Eagle stoker furnace w/ drag auger feed; 2” Pacer pump w/5.5 hp. Honda engine; Soltera chemical transfer pump for Gramxone; Sureflow 2” diaphram pump; 3” Pacer pump w/11.5 hp. Briggs; 2” Pacer pump w/5/5 hp.Briggs; US General roll around tool cabinet; Western snow plow pump with lift w/some brackets for Jeep; older forklift, works good, hard tires, runs on propane. 570-4660 or 528-4766, Rockey Hewson, Alamo.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

FOR SALE Gently used matching beige leather sofa and loveseat, recent purchase and in like new condition, $500 for the pair. 587-5091, Virgil Sheggerud, Northwood.

FOR SALE Blacksmith coal. 438-2157 or 351-3698 leave a message, Dean Hagen, Maddock.

FOR SALE Corner curio cabinet w/lights, 76” tall, 28”wide; antique church pew, 45” long; collection of Bavarian demitasse cups and saucers. 320-5968, Susan Swartz, Jamestown.

FOR SALE Kwik Kleen grain cleaner, Model 772, cleaning cap. of up to 3,500 BPH, uses 230 volt elec. motor. 370-0078, Dennis Karsky, Langdon FOR SALE Cargo carrier, ramps, both heavy duty steel; boat anchor; wetsuit med., H-D duffel bag; wire recorder; wedding dress sz.8; bark control Collar; Fargo-by artist Larry Wamble; man’s black leather trench coat R42; man’s lg. brown leather coat; Franklin Mint Eagle Plates; RCC western hat; typewriter; Bulova wall clock. 4298390, Monica Fedora, Fargo.

FOR SALE Apollo band saw; Viking grinder/hammer mill, 2 hp., 220 volt;1997 Polaris Indy snowmobile, XTRA-12 Limited; 514 JD 5 bottom plow, packer and pony drill, kickback; 6 14” JD plow, packer and pony drill, kickback. 734-6703, Robert Anderson, Wilton.

FOR SALE MDS loader attachments: 2- MDS rock badgers w/ bobtach mounts; 7’ & 8’ MDS scoops w/ universal Euro-mounts; 7’ MDS scoop w/ bobtach mount; 8’ MDS scoops & grapples for JD 148 & 158 and 740 classic-tach; MDS sur-lock quick-tach scoop mounting system for JD 145, 146, 148, 158, 168 loaders; MDS manufacture attachments for any loader; new 7’ JD scoop w/ JD global-mount (same as Euromount); new 5’ & 6’ JD scoops for 300400-500 series JD loaders; new 7’ Koyker quick-tach scoop; 4 used Bobcat scoops 55”-80;” used 8’ JD 280 loader scoop; JD 146 loader with 7’ scoop; F-10 & 11 loaders & loader parts (pumps, cylinders, dozer attachment carriers, frames, etc.).

Allen Wald, Edgeley 701-709-0103 WANTED Prairie dog hunters to hunt on my land, make reservations now. 597-3730, email: larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields.

WANTED Land to hunt coyotes, if you would be willing to let me do some coyote calling on your land, please give me a call! 3911117, Lane Droog, Mandan.

WANTED Older snowmobiles, 1980 or older preferred, need not be in running order.

252-4916, Tyler Thoms, Spiritwood.

WANTED Old crocks, jugs with store advertising; metal advertising signs, gas pumps, metal oil cans, advertising clocks or thermometers; road signs, traps, knives, shell boxes, guns, pop or medicine bottles; highway road signs; old 1 lb. coffee tin cans; ND pottery, carnival glass; ND books - 50 yrs. in the saddle. 258-0420 or 220-5746, Val Ganje, Bismarck.

WANTED Looking for a 1975 John Deere JDX4 snowmobile with good running CCW340 reed valve engine and good slide rail track, need parts to fix up a sled for my kids. 884-2446, Terry Strobel, Denhoff.

WANTED Old motorcycle license plates. 797-7610, Tim Soma, Cooperstown.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

1984 Ford Crown Victoria LTD, 40,000+ original miles, full power, runs and drives great, this is a really nice vehicle, will go anywhere, $3,500. 834-2216, Glynn Thompson, Fortuna.

FOR SALE 1966 International 1600 truck, 16’ box.

465-3673, Bill Nitz, Anamoose.

FOR SALE 1981 Buick Century, auto on floor, bucket seats, air, factory installed V-8 4.3 liter motor, mint condition; 1951 straight eight Buick. 597-3730, larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FOR SALE 1963 Dodge truck, running order. 9482430, Clarence Sayler, Zap. FOR SALE 1997 Chevy 1/2 ton Silverado, extended wheel base with 10’x7’ flat bed, inflatable air overloads, wired for trailer pulling and trailer brakes, heavy duty tires, new transmission with heavy duty upgrade installed, very good condition. We used it for pulling our little camper and to haul our Arctic Cat side by side UTV. $5,500.

302-0037, Roger Westby, New Rockford.

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE 50 fancy, gentle, Blk-BWF Angus bred heifers, these bred heifers are all home raised, are thick, moderate-framed and weighing 1,100+ lbs., they are bred to In Focus sons and start calving on March 20, visit these bred heifers at the ranch anytime, River Cam Ranch. 878-4999 or 226-9518, Archie Wanner, Hebron.

FOR SALE Registered Percherons - 2012 all black stud colt and black filly with star, they are 3/4 brother and sister, they’ll be a small team; coming 2 yr. old filly. 226-3412, Lavern Frankfurth, Bismarck.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

House for sale or contract for deed: 3+ bedrooms, 1 3/4 baths, newer kitchen, carpet, laminate flooring, double attached garage + addition for storage, garden area, best part of town. 3483262, Clayton Vanderlinden, Glen Ullin.

FEED AND SEED FOR SALE Large mixed grass hay bales, 900 lbs.

948-2430, Clarence Sayler, Zap. 29

Emmons County Fishing Derby

North Dakota Farmers UNioN

2013 excursion tours! massachusetts experience with NFU Convention Feb 23 – mar 8, 2013 in Springfield, MA Limited seats available

??? mystery tours ??? #1 apr 29 – may 2 #2 may 13 – 16 #3 may 20 – 23 Limited seats available

Alaska Farm Tour

august 6 – 17, 2013 features a 7 night Princess Cruise which combines the best of both land and sea.

Go to www.ndfu.org for details or call 800-366-8331 ext 108, Susan or ext 111, Jeff

COUNTY CALENDAR CASS – February 27 • Board meeting • 7 p.m. • Vets Club, Casselton • plan Beer & Brats tasting social

KIDDER – June 10 • Board meeting • 8 p.m. • Fire Hall, Pettibone • plan ladies luncheon

WARD – February 4 • Board meeting • 6:30 p.m. • Pizza Ranch, Minot

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Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013 – Rice Lake Don & Laura Eberle farm

8 miles south of Strasburg on Hwy 83

10:00 a.m – 2:00 p.m.

BRing RoDS, SLEDS & iCE SKATES

sponsored by: emmons Co. Farmers Union & strasbUrg WildliFe ClUb don eberle 336-7237 or Ken Zacher 336-7482

ContaCt:

McIntosh County Farmers Union Appreciation Supper

Saturday, February 23, 2013 Dakota Family Restaurant, Ashley $11 adults - all payable at the door $ 8 students - 7 - 18 yrs. of age 6 and under - free

Must RSVP by Feb. 17: Delbert Eszlinger - 288-3895 Larry Schauer - 288-3704 Kary Lindgren - 288-3813

6 p.m. - Supper 7 p.m. - Farmers Union Updates - NDFU Vice President Bob Kuylen

and Chelsey Thronson, Member Relations Specialist

Bingo to follow

$600 in Prizes to be Given Away!

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Message from

the President

BY NDFU PRESIDENT WOODY BARTH

“United for Family Agriculture” National Farmers Union adopted a new motto last year and I think we can all agree that it fits our state organization, too. The phrase “United for Family Agriculture” really says it all. What a great concept to carry us into the future!

North Dakota Farmers Union has so many projects and activities that unite family farmers and ranchers. As we work together, NDFU will ensure that our efforts always benefit our members. From the latest Precision Agriculture Summit in Jamestown to the lobbying efforts in Bismarck during the legislative session, NDFU is there for you.

We continue to be an excellent re­source for cooperatives across the state to use for education, training and leadership development.

Plans for the proposed nitrogen fertilizer manufacturing plant in Spiritwood, N.D. are progressing

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

as promised. CHS, the nation’s largest cooperative, will use this new facility to provide farmers with enhanced supplies of crop nutrients essential to raising corn and other crops.

Through our state office, we offer a wide-ranging slate of special events throughout the year. NDFU summer camps attract about 1,000 youth each year, making it one of the most popular activities in North Dakota. The camps are structured to encourage our youth to emerge

as a new generation of leaders.

Farmers Union carries a clear voice when meeting with policymakers in Bismarck or Washington, D.C. Farmers Union continues to keep our members informed on rural issues and paves the way for them to voice their opinions.

Through Farmers Union Insurance, we offer a full line of insurance products, designed specifically for the needs of you and your neighbors. Our mutual insurance company is member owned, served by more than 100 agents across the state.

It’s no secret that North Dakota Farmers Union is the state’s largest general farm organization. We’re proud of our heritage and excited about all the things the new year will bring us. Please join me in recognizing how agriculture truly unites us all in bringing food, fiber and fuel to the world. s

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Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division

PERIODICALS – POSTAGE PAID

1415 12th Ave SE PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402

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