October Union Farmer 2014 by North Dakota Farmers Union

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

Sunset near Medina – Photo courtesy of Tyrel Schlecht, NDFU

In this issue

It’s Co-op Month!

NDFU voting guide

18.

WOTUS Q & A

31. President’s message

October 2014 – Volume 61 • Number 10

North Dakota Union Farmer

The UNION FARMER is published monthly by North Dakota Farmers Union at 1415 12th Ave SE, Jamestown, ND 58401 Annual subscription is $30 with NDFU membership. Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, ND.

October 2014

EDITOR: Anne Denholm 800-366-8331 • www.ndfu.org adenholm@ndfu.org POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NDFU, PO Box 2136, Jamestown, ND 58402-2136 Copies mailed this issue: 34,736 • USPS 016-211

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President: Mark Watne Vice President: Bob Kuylen Secretary: Ellen Linderman Treasurer: Terry Borstad James Kerzman; Wes Niederman Jr.; Dennis Stromme; Jim Teigen; Ronda Throener

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Celebrate Co-op Month!

Governor Jack Dalrymple proclaimed October as “Co-op Month” on Monday, Sept. 29, at an official proclamation signing event in Bismarck. The proclamation recognizes the valuable contributions that cooperatives bring to North Dakota. Cooperatives are part of a tradition in America. Cooperatives are businesses organized by people to provide needed goods and services. When people join together to form a cooperative, the business is founded on their values and needs: democratic principles; community commitment and interaction; cooperative buying power and economic advantage; people helping

people. While investor-owned businesses have a structure that pushes them to deliver profits to shareholders, cooperatives have a structure that pushes them to meet their customers’ needs. Cooperatives put people ahead of profits. Cooperative earnings are returned to members through improved services, lower prices or refunds. Cooperatives come in

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

all sizes, from small buying clubs to businesses included in the Fortune 500. Many cooperatives are household names, for example Land O’Lakes, Ocean Spray, Sunkist, ACE Hardware, Nationwide Insurance and the Associated Press. In the United States, there are 29,000 cooperatives with more than 100 million members. Cooperatives operate in every industry including agriculture, energy, financial services, food retailing and distribution, health care, child care, insurance, housing, purchasing and shared services, telecommunications and others. p

October 2014

Union Farmer â€˘ www.ndfu.org

CHS and CHS Foundation Giving $4 MILLION TO

CHS PATRONAGE CASH DISTRIBUTIONS IN

NORTH DAKOTA COMMUNITIES SINCE

2008

NORTH DAKOTA, 2000–2013

390 million

CHS stewardship in 2013:

1.4 MILLION

1.3 MILLION

Rural youth leadership programs such as North Dakota 4-H, FFA and Ag in the Classroom

Plant Chronology

North Dakota Farmers Union Camping and Generation KEY programs

September 2012 Joint press announcement by North Dakota Governor Jack Dalrymple and CHS President and CEO Carl Casale

920,000

Support for North Dakota State University

150,000

Precision ag curriculum at Bismarck State College

December 2012

Scholarships at Bismarck State College, Dickinson State University, Minot State University and NDSU; plus college club mini-grants

January 2014

$ $

130,000

30,000

Local ag safety grants, including grain bin extraction equipment for rural communities

Phase 1 (Pre-FEED) study completed – including economic feasibility, technology and safety considerations

Phase 2 (FEED) – (Front End Engineering and Design) study completed – including preliminary engineering and facility layout, and related initial cost estimates

June 2014

Strong North Dakota stewardship CHS is committed to supporting the communities in which we do business. For decades, CHS and the CHS Foundation have made substantial contributions to North Dakota programs (including flood relief) to help build vibrant communities, improve agriculture safety and develop future leaders. Since 2011, CHS has also honored and rewarded individuals in North Dakota through our Cenex® Tanks of Thanks® program.

Air permit granted by North Dakota Department of Health

September 2014 CHS Board of Directors approved plant construction

First Half 2018 Commissioning and start-up of plant

Sharing success with area farmers As a farmer-owned cooperative, CHS shares a portion of its earnings directly with farmers, ranchers and local co-ops. In the last five years, CHS has returned nearly $2 billion to its owners across the country.

Dedicated to safe operations CHS is a Fortune 100 company and the nation’s leading farm supply cooperative, supplying crop nutrients, grain marketing services, livestock feed, food, food ingredients, business solutions and energy products (including Cenex® brand refined fuels, lubricants and propane). For more than 80 years, CHS has served the petroleum and agricultural industries with a strong track record of safely handling chemicals. Visit chsinc.com to learn more about CHS and visit chsstewards.com to read about the health and safety commitment at our refineries, pipelines and other facilities. If you have questions, please contact Annette Degnan, Marketing Communications Director, at (651) 355-6126 or annette.degnan@chsinc.com.

5500 CENEX DRIVE

INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, MN 55077

651-355-6000

CHSINC.COM

Union UnionFarmer Farmer• •www.ndfu.org www.ndfu.org

October 2014

155

The strength and power of co-ops Cooperatives thrive in big cities, small towns and rural areas. From child care to senior housing, insurance to agricultural marketing, financial services to utilities, cooperatives operate in most sectors of the economy. Co-ops are driven by service rather than profit. They are all guided by the same core principles:

1. Open Membership

Cooperatives are formed by people looking for solutions to shared problems. They are open to all who use their services and are willing to accept the responsibilities of membership.

cooperatives. CHS Inc., a Fortune 100 company, is the country’s largest cooperative. • Electric cooperatives serve 12 percent of the nation’s population. • About 7,000 federally insured credit unions serve approximately 9.2 million members. • More than 250 purchasing co-ops offer group buying and shared services to more than 50,000 independent businesses. • More than 6,400 housing cooperatives provide dwellings for some three million residents. • Food cooperatives have been innovators in the marketplace in

the areas of unit pricing, consumer protection and nutritional labeling. • 260 telephone cooperatives provide service to 1.2 million households and are often the first to provide advanced telecommunication services to rural areas. • Some 700 purchasing cooperatives offer group buying and shared services to more than 6,000 members. • There are more than 1,000 mutual insurance companies that total more than $80 billion in net written premiums. s

2. Democratic Control

Co-ops are controlled by those who use the co-op’s goods and services. Each member gets one vote to help make the organization’s policies and decisions.

3. Economic Participation

Members equally buy in and democratically control the capital based on the amount of business they conduct rather than the dollars they invest.

4. Independence

Cooperatives are independent, self-help organizations. If a co-op enters into an outside agreement or raises external capital, it still retains autonomy and democratic control.

5. Education and Training

Cooperatives train their members, directors and employees so they can best contribute to the co-op’s development. They also educate the general public about cooperatives.

6. Cooperation

Cooperatives work together through strong local, national and regional structures to most effectively serve members.

7. Concern for Community Cooperatives focus on local development through policies and programs directed by their members.

Here’s some other facts:

• About 30 percent of farm products and farm supplies in the United States are marketed through more than 3,000 farmer-owned 6

October 2014

LIVE COOPERATIVELY www.Co-opMonth.coop

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

No longer with beef checkoff group National Farmers Union’s (NFU) recent announcement that it is withdrawing immediately from a USDA beef checkoff working group was met with support by North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU). “Our national organization has been at the table for three years, trying to reform the way checkoff dollars are administered,” said NDFU President Mark Watne. “Consensus is not in the cards and at some point, you have to redirect your time and resources elsewhere.” The group was designed to bring together vested parties from across the beef industry to reach a consensus on reforms. At issue is whether to raise the current $1-per-head checkoff to $2 and the process for deciding how the Cattlemen’s Beef Research & Promotion Board (CBB) spends that money. Currently, the CBB contracts with just six organizations to carry out all of its promotion and research efforts. Chief among them is the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a policy-driven organization. “NCBA will not give up control of the CBB purse strings and allow ranchers to determine the best use of checkoff funds,” said Watne. “Ranchers should not be paying to fund overhead for policy-driven organizations that oppose their interests.” As a member of the NFU Board of Directors, Watne voted for the following reforms and recommended that the secretary of agriculture rewrite the program under the Commodity, Promotion, Research and Information Act of 1996. · Give the CBB authority to carry out checkoff projects on its own, similar to other checkoff oversight boards. · Allow the CBB to enter into checkoff contracts with nonpolicy organizations and private companies, such as ad agencies and public relations firms, in order to prevent policy-driven organizations from using checkoff

dollars to fund overhead for political activity. · Make the beef checkoff completely refundable. · Hold a referendum on the continuation of the beef checkoff every five years. USDA’s beef checkoff working group included: CBB, NFU, NCBA, American Farm Bureau Federation, American National Cattlewomen, Federation of State Beef Councils, Livestock Marketing Association, Meat Importers Council of America, National Livestock Producers Association, National Milk Producers Federation, and the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association. The beef checkoff became mandatory in 1988.

Other Insight:

• The lion’s share of checkoff dollars – between 90 to 99 percent – go directly to the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). NCBA has become a mouthpiece for the meat packing industry and is frequently opposed to issues important to family farmers and ranchers. The beef industry desperately needs a separation wall between the policy organization and the promotion organization. • While most cattlemen support Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL), NCBA sued USDA to stop the implementation of the rule, costing taxpayers and NFU dearly. NCBA also opposed the farm bill, which was supported by nearly every farm group in the nation.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

• NCBA opposed Livestock Disaster Assistance and GIPSA. NCBA supports the proliferation of larger feedlots, more vertical integration and increased industry concentration, all of which slowly squeeze family farmers and ranchers out of business. • After three years of pushing for reforms in the beef check-off program, NFU decided that the process had become a bridge to nowhere. Sadly, it became clear that there is no willingness from the key player within the group – NCBA – to allow real reforms to take place. NFU remains willing and eager to engage with others who are interested in reforming the beef checkoff, such that it operates in a manner like other checkoff programs. • USDA needs to reform the checkoff system from the top down. The new system should allow the CBB to operate on its own; the CBB must have the autonomy to enter checkoff contracts with various agencies on its own; the beef checkoff must be completely refundable; a referendum on the continuation of the checkoff should be held every five years. • NFU recommends that USDA consider rewriting the beef checkoff program under the 1996 Generic Research and Promotion Act. • In the late 1990s, the pork industry’s policy organization was completely separated from its checkoff income stream and that has benefitted pork producers and the industry as a whole. s October 2014

NDFU, FUE donate $100,000 – Fargo chosen as site for national ag center The National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Board recently announced that Fargo will be the site of the National Agricultural Genotyping Center. North Dakota Farmers Union and Farmers Union Enterprises teamed up to donate $100,000 for the project. NDFU will have a representative serve on the board. “This is a first-time-ever, huge step for a farmer-led association

that gives growers more influence on research agendas,” said Dr. Richard Vierling, director of research at NCGA. “This can help growers increase production and lower costs. We’re really excited about Fargo and the commitment from the many forward-thinking people involved in this project. The commitment from North Dakota State University, North Dakota Corn Growers, Gov. Jack Dalrymple, the

state’s congressional delegation and many others really helped sell the plan to our team.” The National Agricultural Genotyping Center will translate scientific discoveries, such as the information from the maize genome project, into solutions for production agriculture, food safety, functional foods, bioenergy and national security. s

People’s Law School at four state sites Family law, wills, estate planning, human rights and housing discrimination, landlord-tenant issues, domestic violence and criminal law are among the topics that will be covered in free People’s Law School classes beginning in October. The classes are sponsored by the State Bar Association of North Dakota (SBAND), and will be held in Williston, Devils Lake, Fargo and Bismarck. “Many people have questions about legal issues, and the answers are not always easy to get,” says Tony Weiler, executive director of SBAND. “These People’s Law School classes will provide information and explanations on

many legal topics.” The People’s Law School will be taught by volunteer lawyers during a five-week period beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 7. Each two-hour session will cover at least one topic. Weiler says time will be reserved during the presentation for questions. “The instructors may discuss privately any legal problems participants may have or will refer them to an attorney who specializes in that area of the law,” he says. There is no charge for the Tuesday evening classes, but registration is required online at https://www.sband.org Resources%20for%20the%20 Public/people-law-school.aspx.

Participants can enroll in all classes offered, or only for the topics that interest them, Weiler says. The locations are: • Bismarck – Oct. 7 through Nov. 4 at the Sanford Health Conference Room, 701 East Rosser Ave. • Devils Lake – Oct. 7 and 14 at the Chatauqua Gallery at Lake Region State College. • Fargo – Oct. 7 through Nov. 4, at Lofstgard Room 114, North Dakota State University. • Williston – Oct. 7 and 15, at Williston State College. The topics scheduled for each class can be found at www. sband.org or call 701-255-1404. s

Truck weight workshops

The North Dakota TruckWeight Education and Outreach Program will be holding workshops this month. The program promotes voluntary truck-weight compliance to reduce damage to public roads and highways from overweight vehicles. Concerns from state, county, city and township transportation authorities regarding damage from heavy trucks will be addressed and road weight restrictions explained for various times of the year. The

October 2014

goal is to provide information and explanations to attendees on how to haul the most legal weight, without violating the truck-weight laws. How you configure your truck, with proper axle spacing and tire size, makes a difference. Workshops will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 7, in Minot; Wednesday, Oct. 8, in Mandan; and Tuesday, Oct. 14, in Stanley. To find other workshops and get detailed information, go to: www.ndltap.org or call 701-3289855. s

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

2014 NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

Your vote is your voice as an American citizen. It’s your opportunity to be heard, to hold elected officials accountable for their decisions and to have a say in important issues that affect your community. On election day, every vote matters. This year, the general election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 4. All North Dakota voting information may be accessed through the official portal web site: https://vip.sos.nd.gov/ VoterInformationPortal.aspx. Proper identification is also required at voting time. North Dakota does not have voter registration. However, in order to vote in North Dakota, you must be: • A U.S. citizen • At least 18 years old on the day of election

• A North Dakota resident • A precinct resident for 30 days preceding the election. Many counties also allow for early voting. Dates and availability differ by county. To find your local voting place and times, go to: https://vip. sos.nd.gov/WhereToVote. aspx?tab=0 or contact your local county courthouse for more information. All eligible North Dakotans have the option to request a ballot before the day of an election in a process known as absentee voting. An application is required to be submitted anytime within the calendar year of an election. Ballots are not available until the fortieth day before an election. For more information or to access the application, go to: https://vip.sos.nd.gov/absentee/. In this special section, North

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Dakota Farmers Union has organized questions and answers from the Democratic and Republican candidates for the United States Senate and Congressional races, the North Dakota Governor’s race and the Public Service Commission. p

FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO WWW.NDFU.ORG OR CALL 1-701-952-0104 WITH ANY ELECTION QUESTIONS. October 2014

Agriculture Commissioner

DOUG GOEHRING Republican

Is the office of agriculture commissioner equally important to urban and rural North Dakotans? Why or why not?

GOEHRING: The office is important to all North Dakotans and I am proud of the work we do every day to help grow our state’s economy and assist our farmers and ranchers to be successful through the numerous programs we oversee and the services we provide. Agriculture is a large consumer of supplies, equipment, technology and services that support our farmers and ranchers and their families. Agriculture supports almost 25% of the workforce in the state. North Dakota agricultural exports have grown by over 70% since. That’s important to all of North Dakota, rural and urban. In addition, we can’t forget about the multitude of farm products, where value is added off the farm, and distributed for mass consumption, such as food, composites, energy and clothing. As a result, our state’s farmers and ranchers are feeding and fueling our nation and world and adding important value to our national and global economies. TAYLOR: I believe the race for agriculture commissioner is, first and foremost, about agriculture, which plays a critical role in the main street economies in every one of North Dakota’s 53 counties. So I believe the success of agriculture affects everyone in the state, rural and urban, and we know that everyone gets to vote for the office of agriculture commissioner. An effective agriculture commissioner finds common ground to bring together rural and urban constituents

October 2014

to both preserve our strong agricultural heritage, and ensure a modern and successful enterprise that sustains families and communities across North Dakota. Obviously, the ag commissioner has one of three votes on the IC (oil and gas development, Bank of N.D., Housing Finance Agency, State Mill & Elevator to name a few) and the Water Commission, and that vote can have positive impacts for both rural and urban folks. Our ancestors gave the ag commissioner a seat at those tables for a reason, and that reason was to advocate for agriculture.

Do you support the state’s anti-corporate farming law? As ag commissioner, how will you use your position to preserve this law? GOEHRING: I am opposed to organizations such as Ducks Unlimited and other activist groups owning agricultural land. I support farmers and ranchers having access to a small percentage of outside capital but only for purchasing equipment and for operating costs but not for purchasing land. TAYLOR: I have long supported our state’s anti-corporate farming laws, going back to my 10 years as a state senator. There, I represented a large, rural farming district in north central North Dakota, and I have a voting record and public statements as evidence of my commitment. I would use my voice as agriculture commissioner to continue that support for family farming and ranching. I would, however, also use my seat on the Industrial Commission (IC), which oversees our state-owned Bank of North Dakota to help farms with the credit and capital needs that some would say is the reason

RYAN TAYLOR Dem-NPL

our anti-corporate farming laws should be changed. The Bank of North Dakota, under the IC, could help with those credit needs, and other legal structures, such as LLCs and LLLPs, which can be utilized while keeping our family farm focus.

Through your seat on the North Dakota Industrial Commission, how will you ensure North Dakota landowners are being treated fairly during this unprecedented oil boom?

GOEHRING: One of our most precious resources is our farm and ranch land. And, balancing our interest to preserve and protect our land while upholding one’s constitutional right to develop their minerals is among our greatest challenges on the Commission today. I believe we are accomplishing that by focusing on mitigating risks, minimizing impacts, and enforcing existing laws and regulations, all while reducing the footprint on our prairie. As it relates to ensuring landowners are being treated fairly, the department’s mediation program has been very successful helping landowners address their concerns and resolve their disputes with oil and gas related companies and avoid costly litigation. TAYLOR: I’ve made my commitment to landowners a focus of the campaign from the beginning when we announced our Landowner’s Bill of Rights (www.taylor4nd.com/LBOR). During this oil boom, we need to balance the needs of farmers and ranchers who are working to raise a crop and graze cattle above the ground with the work Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

of the energy companies who are extracting oil and gas from below the ground. This won’t happen without a dedicated and passionate voice on the Industrial Commission advocating for our

GEORGE SINNER Dem-NPL

As North Dakota’s lone voice in the U.S. House, what are your priorities and how will you be heard?

surface owners. As they say, good fences make for good neighbors, and good policies will make for good neighbors between the agriculture and energy sectors. It’s

not a balanced debate to simply take the side of the oil industry and try to convince others that it suits agriculture when it doesn’t. p

U.S. Congress

SINNER: My top priority in Congress will always be to represent the best interests of the people of North Dakota. We have a diverse cross section of agricultural, energy and other economic interests in our state, so we must find a way to work together. As the lone congressional representative, I will work tirelessly to make sure the voice of those I represent is heard. Right now there is far too much gridlock and partisan bickering at the federal level. Washington needs more people who are willing to reach across the aisle in the spirit of compromise and represent the people, not party politics. Whether it’s sponsoring legislation important to North Dakotans or listening to my constituents, I want my voice to be a voice for North Dakota. CRAMER: While North Dakota priorities are always my priorities, many national priorities must also be worked on. I had a productive freshman term passing farm and water development legislation. Other bills to help farmers also passed the House like delaying implementation of Obamacare for individuals and small business owners and making bonus depreciation and 179 expensing permanent. The Senate has yet

to consider any of these pro-farmer bills. We have cut spending three years in a row for the first time since the Korean War, much more needs to be done. The threat of radical Islamic terrorism has been ignored for six years and must be addressed. We must restore America’s military readiness. Being North Dakota’s only member of the House is a privilege I don’t take lightly. The solutions to our nation’s challenges are available to me through the people I represent. Staying in touch makes me and America better.

How will you advocate for fair and adequate rail service for agriculture in this state?

SINNER: I have been in private

business for 35 years, and I know that there’s nothing like competition to motivate businesses to do better. There is currently no penalty for delivering grain cars late and railroad contracts are too one-sided, leaving elevators and agriculture producers at a disadvantage. In North Dakota, the rail system is our lifeline to the global marketplace. BNSF and CP currently have monopolies overseen by the Surface Transportation Board. When railroads are not performing, we have no other recourse nationally than to work with the STB and ask that they level the playing field. That’s why I asked the STB to return to North Dakota to hold

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

KEVIN CRAMER Republican

a public hearing, where I asked them to open the rail lines to allow other rail companies to service the current backlog. Along with long-term investments in infrastructure, positive intervention from the STB will provide relief to our famers in the short-term. CRAMER: I’ve been engaged daily since last winter with the railroads, regulators, shippers and farm groups. I was the first member of Congress to file comments at the Federal Surface Transportation Board, advocating for agriculture commodities. I meet regularly with railroad executives keeping pressure applied on the people most able to improve service. My team and I communicate weekly with STB Commissioners and staff finding ways to utilize their powers. Since mid-April I publish weekly service updates provided by BNSF and CP. My reports are re-published every week by major agriculture communications outlets. Good information is critical. I remain committed to using all of the influence of my office to advocate in as effective a manner as possible for North Dakota’s agriculture producers and shippers, including with our Canadian neighbors who must work with us, not against us. Rhetoric is easy, results require measured leadership.

October 2014

The farm bill has been passed but it is still in the rulemaking phase. As Congressman, how will you ensure that this farm bill will continue to be beneficial after the rulemaking phase, and be implemented in a timely manner? SINNER: First and foremost, I

won’t vote to derail the farm bill as our current Congressman did. After Congress passes a farm bill, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture is charged with writing the actual rules for how the programs will be implemented. In order to ensure that the rulemaking and implementation phases are efficient and ultimately effective, we must first draft legislation that

charts a path toward success for North Dakota’s, and our nation’s, farmers. I grew up on a farm and have worked in agricultural finance for the past 35 years. I know what is important to these hardworking men and women, and I will take my decades of experience with me to Washington. I plan to serve on the House Committee on Agriculture, and it will be a top priority, after passage, to provide the necessary oversight to ensure farm bill initiatives are carried out in a way that will be most beneficial to our nation’s farmers. CRAMER: The farm bill was a major legislative victory. Passage of the Cramer amendment is critical to rule making, limiting agency discretion in wetland mitigation. I monitor the process regularly, staying in contact with

agriculture stakeholders including producers to gain feedback on the implications of various scenarios. We call, write and meet with senior USDA and key committee staffers to share what we learn and to advocate for North Dakota agriculture. Just as passing legislation requires a balance of advocacy and compromise, so working with rule-making agencies demands give and take. So far we have enjoyed good relationships and mutual respect. Regarding “timeliness,” it is important for farmers to know the rules in time to make planting decisions. The USDA has provided a free year if you will, allowing time to gather enough information to make informed decisions. It is more important to make a good decision than a fast one. p

Public Service Commissioner

BRIAN KALK Republican

JULIE FEDORCHAK Republican

What is your vision of the state’s indemnity fund, and how can this fund best be structured to help North Dakota farmers? KALK: The Indemnity Fund was

set up as a “Back Stop” to provide protection for farmers when warranted. It was not intended to insulate farmers from bad business decisions. Nor should it be a substitute for good business practices. The fund is working as envisioned by the Legislature. I would not change the fund. If greater aid is required, it should be brought to the Legislature for action. FEDORCHAK: We have discussed this issue frequently this year and we tasked Commissioner Christmann, who holds the portfolio in this area, to 12

October 2014

TODD REISENAUER Dem-NPL

develop specific recommendations. I will weigh in officially on his proposals. In general, I support changes that focus on key problem areas and minimize penalties to elevators that are doing business correctly and responsibly in our state. We can and I believe should improve the licensing and regulation of both roving grain buyers and processors to better reflect the risks associated with those business models that are different from traditional elevators, and to better protect farmers from potential losses. Additional measures that I will consider in consultation with industry is more strict enforcement of 45-day conversion of sales tickets and more in-depth evaluation of the financials of the businesses we regulate. REISENAUER: The challenges

TYLER AXNESS Dem-NPL

faced by Belfield, ND, area farmer Kevin Kessel highlight why I am running for the Public Service Commission. In learning more how a seed company’s insolvency has put Kevin at a financial disadvantage and delayed his graduation from the “Beginning Farmer” loan program, I felt compelled to act. As a third generation North Dakotan, my father currently ranches on the same land we have owned since the late 1920s and Kevin’s circumstances hit close to home. Today we have major gaps in how the Indemnity Fund is administered and utilized to protect our farmers. I will not allow farmers to fall into the cracks of the system and risk their land and livelihoods. Compounding the problem, we have inattentive and unresponsive commissioners Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

at the PSC. My commitment is to bring true reform to the PSC and strengthen the agency’s consumer protection authority. Structure the state’s Indemnity Fund to work for farmers and not against them will be critical to this mission. AXNESS: I believe the Indemnity Fund is important because it provides safety and assurances for our farmers. However there are limitations set that need to be revised moving forward. One of those is the Indemnity Fund’s $6 million cap set in the 2007 legislative session, lowered from $10 million. I would like to see the cap dramatically raised or potentially removed to provide for greater funds and assurance for our farmers. With the cap as low as $6 million, if the unfortunate circumstance of an elevator crises occurs the fund will be depleted rapidly. This situation must be avoided and we can do so by raising or eliminating the cap. I also think it is wise to discuss the establishment of an adequately funded indemnity fund for noncredit-sales. Again, I’d stress the indemnity fund needs to be properly funded.

As public service commissioner, how will you use your position to advocate for agriculture in regard to rail service? KALK: Rail service for

agricultural products is falling short of what is needed and what has been promised. Increased pressure from all stakeholders, Senators, Congressmen, the Surface Transportation Board, as well as the PSC, must be a priority. The long-term solution for our farmers and producers is to provide the means to ship more oil and gas by pipeline. I have worked hard to get pipelines properly located and constructed. With increased oil and gas production, the effort on pipelines becomes more urgent and necessary. As a retired U.S. Marine Corps logistics officer I know the importance of having an effective transportation system. I have called on our railroads to increase their capacity to move all types of products. This means more track, more engines, more crews, and more efficiency.

FEDORCHAK: I have been

using my position consistently to pressure the railroads to improve service. I organized meetings with the railroads in April to quiz them about plans for addressing the backlog. Subsequently, we requested data comparing service between industries, which the railroads refused to provide. When the railroads failed to meet their deadlines for erasing the backlog, I drafted and my colleagues jointly signed a letter to the STB urging greater involvement. This helped lead to the historic STB field hearing in North Dakota in September. Also at my direction, the PSC secured legal council with extensive rail service to help target our actions with the STB for maximum results. At the STB hearing, I offered four specific actions to improve service. I will continue to use my position to pressure the railroads to improve both service and safety on their system in our state. REISENAUER: As Public Service Commissioner I will be a strong advocate for North Dakota farmers by ensuring producers have the ability to get their commodities to market via rail. This past August, I proposed a common sense set of solutions that restores accountability as well as providing a means to ending rail congestion, and modernizing rail infrastructure in North Dakota. Specifically here is what the Rail Access and Increased Line Safety (RAILS) plan calls for: • Require Railroad Commodities Data and get a true understanding what is being shipped and if preferential treatment is occurring. • Conduct an Infrastructure Investment Study that will be used to modernize and increase capacity. • Creation of a State Rail Inspection Program that will give North Dakota local control of rail safety. • Hold a First Responders Roundtable to address training, equipment needs of local departments. AXNESS: It is important to provide strong leadership for North Dakota farmers in regard to equal rail access. North Dakota Century Code vests the PSC with broad oversight of railroads within our borders. In order to address the backlog emergency and prevent future congestion, I have

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

introduced Railroad Access and Increased Line Safety (RAILS). RAILS requires railroads to submit the data related to volume of commodities shipped to the PSC. This action will provide transparency to the public and open up the dialogue between industries reliant on the rail system. We will bring everyone to the table. We’ll also study the capacity needs and infrastructure inadequacies of our current rail system. Railroad companies, agriculture groups, oil and gas companies, and AMTRAK will be asked to submit their information to the PSC. Once it is determined what investments are needed, the state will match up to 25% of the rail upgrade investment.

As oil production continues to increase, pipelines for oil, natural gas, and other materials will be developed. How will you balance the need for infrastructure with the rights of landowners? KALK: I am a firm supporter

of property rights. Landowners must be protected and properly compensated when pipelines are constructed. I will continue to hold hearings well ahead of any decision deadline and will continue to encourage landowners to get involved early in the process, so their concerns can receive a fair hearing. All stakeholders must have a part in the decision making process. Local officials, grower groups, along with state agencies like the State Historical Preservation Office, all have a role to play in determining the impact of pipeline project construction and maintenance. We need more pipelines and I am committed to ensuring that landowners are a key part of that process. FEDORCHAK: Safe, efficient pipeline infrastructure is a key for living in harmony with the energy industry long term. We can balance infrastructure development with landowner rights by focusing on transparency and accountability. The public needs good information from companies seeking access to their land, and they need access to the Commission on projects we October 2014

site to express concerns. I am committed to listening ALWAYS, and responding whenever feasible to landowner requests on projects. My record shows many examples of advocating for project changes requested by landowners. Furthermore, I do not support expanding eminent domain authority to facilitate pipeline development. North Dakotans are reasonable and I believe will support projects if treated appropriately. Finally, pipeline companies must be held accountable for highquality reclamation after pipeline construction. This issue will be a priority for me if elected in November. REISENAUER: As North Dakota’s crude production continues to increase, it is essential that the Public Service Commission develops a comprehensive pipeline plan.

Why are you running for this statewide position, and why is this position important to North Dakota farmers and ranchers?

KRAUS-PARR: I am running for

Attorney General because violent crime has rapidly intensified, increasing every year since 2003. The current Attorney General, after 14 years in office, has become complacent and isn’t doing enough. We need to increase personnel and infrastructure to help combat crime. As Attorney General, I will effectively advocate for an increase in local law enforcement. The Attorney General sits on the Industrial Commission. This Commission is an extremely

October 2014

it is not enough to simply site a pipeline and walk away from oversight as this PSC has done. Landowners deserve the assurance that their elected officials on the PSC are ensuring the best quality pipe is being constructed and the system is then monitored to prevent and minimize incidents that negatively impact the land. Our VIP plan consolidates and streamlines pipeline oversight, holds companies accountable for land reclamation to the highest standard, and gives landowners a one-stop-shop for all pipeline questions and concerns. It is important to have leaders willing to stand up for landowners and protect their property. I promise to be available and responsive to landowner needs and concerns and refuse to say, “that’s not my jurisdiction.” p

Attorney General

KIARA KRAUS-PARR Dem-NPL

Respect for and upholding the rights of individual landowners will be critical for how we can balance oil production and agriculture in our state. Increased transparency is the first step. Landowners need a voice and an authority that will listen and be responsive especially during the siting and permitting process. I believe that getting landowners engaged early in this process will prevent situations that seem to boil over all too often. Finally, landowners need to know that they have a partner that will work with to fairly recoup costs from surface damage, right of way maintenance and easement access. That is what I will bring to the PSC. AXNESS: Increasing pipeline capacity is important for this development. Pipelines have the ability to reduce crude traffic on our rails, opening up the system for our agriculture commodities. However

important organization tasked with sensibly shaping the future of North Dakota. Because the Commission oversees the oil and gas industry and the agricultural industry, it has the power to help guide the unprecedented growth in our state. As a member of the Commission I will be a voice supporting land reclamation, eliminating wasteful flaring, train congestion, and pipeline spills. I won’t allow special interests to run roughshod over the farmers, ranchers, and everyday North Dakotans that built this state. STENEHJEM: The Attorney General plays a critical role in promoting and preserving our agricultural heritage. Like most long-time North Dakota residents, my family is deeply rooted in our farming industry from the days we grew potatoes at Arnegard to our

WAYNE STENEHJEM Republican

wheat farm near Mohall. I will continue to vigorously protect our ag sector, enforcing our corporate farming laws and prosecuting scam artists who target farmers with shoddy construction projects and phony paving operations. On the Industrial Commission, I will continue to promote the operations of the Bank of North Dakota and its critical ag lending programs, and maintain unwavering support of the ND Mill and Elevator. I will closely monitor over-regulation by federal agencies, including the Waters of the U.S. rule, regional haze regulations among others. Working with NDFU and other ag interests, I will intercede when these efforts demand our involvement. p Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

RYAN RAUSCHENBERGER Republican

Tax Commissioner

Why are you running for this statewide position, and why is this position important to North Dakota farmers and ranchers? RAUSCHENBERGER: Since

joining the Tax Department in 2009, I have worked closely with the Legislature and the Governor to deliver $2.4 billion in historic income and property tax relief. This has meant North Dakota families have been able to keep more of their hard-earned money, seniors on fixed-incomes have been able to remain in their homes, businesses have been able to expand, and our state’s farmers and ranchers have been able to invest more in their operations.

And, because our economy remains strong, we are in an enviable position to deliver even more tax relief. That’s why I have proposed boosting the state’s commitment to state paid property tax relief from $857 million to $1,357 billion. This further reduction in property taxes will ensure that North Dakota remains an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family. That’s why I’m excited, and committed, to running for Tax Commissioner. ASTRUP: I am running for Tax Commissioner because I feel our state’s taxpayers deserve an independent advocate on tax policy. We are receiving unprecedented amounts of tax dollars from our booming ag and energy economies. One party

JASON ASTRUP Dem-NPL

control is not good for debating the issues and that is why we see people left behind in our prosperity. It is crucial that our state develops a tax policy that provides meaningful tax relief and provides funding for infrastructure investments that benefit all North Dakotans. The Tax Commissioner’s office is important to North Dakota farmers and ranchers because the Commissioner is positioned to use the office as a bully pulpit to advocate for and protect the interests of farmers and ranchers. Although we are collecting record amounts of tax dollars from the energy sector, I feel it is important to remember who made our state great in the first place: farmers and ranchers. p

Secretary of State APRIL FAIRFIELD Dem-NPL

Why are you running for this statewide position, and why is this position important to North Dakota farmers and ranchers? FAIRFIELD: My philosophy on

public service is simple: you do the job the people elected you to do. That means… As North Dakota’s chief business officer, you don’t close your office to catch up on paperwork, you don’t overspend millions of dollars on an I.T. project, and you make sure the public is well served. As North Dakota’s chief elections officer, you make sure ballots are properly written, that

every candidate’s name is listed, that servicemen and women get their ballots on time, and voters are properly informed of their rights. And you defend every voter’s sacred right to vote: never pursuing any agenda that narrows those rights. I will be a voice for North Dakota family farmers in state government as a member of the Land Board and Emergency Commission. As I did during my 10 years in the Legislature, I will stand with farmers, ranchers, rural communities and Farmers Union. I’m running for Secretary of State because North Dakotans deserve better. After 22 years of mismanagement and mistakes, it’s time for new leadership. JAEGER: My reasons for running are the same as they were in my first election. That is, I believed then and I still do now that my work experience and my specific gifts and talents match up well with the duties of the Secretary of State. And, I was right, they do. Although elected through a political process,

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

AL JAEGER Republican

it is important that the over 40 different duties of the office are handled in a nonpartisan manner with integrity, commitment, and statesmanship. In addition to facilitating well run elections and processing important business documents, I have another role essential to the successful operation of farms and ranches. That is, the Secretary of State maintains the central database recording thousands of security agreements executed by farmers and ranchers providing them with the means to purchase equipment, seed, livestock, and supplies. It is part of the agricultural economic engine and we handle it well. p October 2014

Initiated ballot measures In the November election, North Dakotans will also be voting on eight special measures. Information has been compiled on the main measures so voters may make an informed decision that will support NDFU policy.The ballot will include: • Measure No. 1 Amends the constitution with the “inalienable right to life” at every stage of human development. • Measure No. 2 Amends the constitution to prohibit the state or political subdivisions from imposing mortgage, sales or transfer taxes on real property. • Measure No. 3 Amends the constitution to eliminate the current seven-member Board of Higher Education and replace with a three-member commission. • Measure No. 4 Places language into the constitution that requires initiated measures that have an estimated “significant fiscal impact” be placed on the general election ballot. Additionally, the measure prohibits the approval of any constitutional amendment that makes a direct appropriation of public funds. • Measure No. 5 Amends the constitution to direct 5 percent of the oil extraction tax revenue to a fund for conservation projects. • Measure No. 6 Amends Century Code to “create a presumption that each parent is a fit parent and be entitled to be awarded equal parental rights and responsibilities.” • Measure No. 7 Removes the requirement in statute that the majority of ownership in a pharmacy must be retained by a registered pharmacist. • Constitutional Measure No. 8 Mandates that school classes in North Dakota begin after Labor Day.

October 2014

NDFU recommends:

no position

4 vote NO 4 vote NO 4 vote NO 4 vote NO 4

no position

4 vote NO 4 vote NO Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

New program begins for youth North Dakota Farmers Union has developed a new program to create better connections between NDFU youth and their communities. NDFU Project manager Katie Ogaard explained, “The idea is to have NDFU youth promote Farmers Union and camp through the activities that they are already involved in. Our goal is to have NDFU be a supporting pillar in youth activities within the community other than just a summer program.” Dubbed the “Kommunity Kids” program, it allows participants to apply for up to $500 to be donated to any organization within their community. In turn, the organization must agree to share information about Farmers Union Camp with its members. The donation is to be used to purchase items that will carry the NDFU logo. Proposals should be submitted to a Member Relations Specialist (MRS). If you do not have your local MRS’s information, please contact Ogaard at 701-320-6043 or e-mail kogaard@ndfu.org. The program will be accepting applications beginning Oct.1,

2014. All applications should include the following data:

1. Name of organization that funds will be donated to. Be sure to include the proper name of the organization and who the donation check should be made out to. 2. Brief description of why you feel the donation to this organization is important. This can include the impact of the organization on the community and other reasoning. 3. Your name and contact

TEAM SPONSOR

information including phone number, e-mail address and mailing address, so we can send you the check to deliver to the organization.

4. County in which you are a NDFU member. 5. Name of the vendor that we send the NDFU logo to. 6. Any other pertinent information you feel should be considered. p

Apply for funds to sponsor a team, merchandise or apparel. Up to $500 is available from North Dakota Farmers Union.

Moderated by Al Gustin, farmer, rancher & retired agricultural broadcaster

nnnnnnnnn Doug goehring, Republican Candidate

ryan Taylor, Democratic Candidate

The event is free and open to the public. The North Dakota Heritage Center will be extending its hours on Oct. 6 so those who are attending can also visit the newly renovated facility. Those who cannot attend in person can hear the debate live on Prairie Public radio.

Hosted by...

Ag Commissioner Postcard ID file.indd 1

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

9/15/14 4:56 PM

October 2014

Q&A

Proposed rules to regulate U.S. waters under the Clean Water Act The purpose of the Clean Water Act is to restore and maintain the integrity of the nation’s waters by preventing pollution discharges. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) are charged with regulating people who use or could pollute the nation’s waters, known as Waters of the United States (WOTUS). Last spring, EPA and the Corps issued a proposed rule to clarify current permitting and regulation of WOTUS. Since then, many agriculture groups, including NDFU, have raised concerns about whether the proposed rule goes too far. The EPA/Corps is accepting public comments on the proposed rule until Oct. 20, 2014. NDFU encourages members to submit comments. Click on www.regulations.gov and search

October 2014

for docket number EPA-HQOW-2011-0880 or “Definition of Waters of the United States.” NDFU does not support expansion of the WOTUS jurisdictional waters. So at this point we stand opposed to the rule. The following are common questions we’ve heard from members. NDFU has participated in a number of meetings and calls with EPA about the rule and continues to raise these questions both in those meetings and in our official comments.

1. How might I be affected by this rule?

If you plan to dump pollutants into a WOTUS, you will need to get a permit from the EPA/Corps. The issue, then, is what activity you’re planning – and whether it

is exempt from regulation – and whether your water is a WOTUS. “Normal farming practices” that involve dredged or fill material are specifically exempted and do not need a permit even if done in a WOTUS. Those practices include plowing, seeding, and harvesting, for example, and a number of conservation practices that NRCS and the EPA/Corps agreed are exempt. However, converting a wetland is not exempt. That wetland, then, could be considered a WOTUS. For example, if you have a wetland that is a WOTUS, you can seed and harvest in it without getting a permit. But you will probably need a permit to apply pesticides. If you plan to convert that wetland, that will likely also require you to seek a permit. The Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

permitting process is difficult, and depending on the activities, you could be denied – not allowed to do the activities – or meet other requirements.

2. If NRCS has determined that something on my land is not a wetland, does that mean it is not regulated by the EPA/Corps under the Clean Water Act?

Not necessarily. This is a great concern raised by NDFU. Even though the agencies all use the same basis for defining a wetland – it has (1) hydric soil, (2) hydrophytic vegetation, and (3) meets the hydrology requirements – the agencies do not defer to each other on their determinations. That means the EPA/Corps could determine an area is a wetland under its jurisdiction where NRCS said it is not a wetland. We have told EPA that one of the greatest areas of distrust is failure of each agency to recognize and support each other’s wetland determinations and mitigation requirements.

3. Will this rule affect wetlands in the “Prairie Pothole Region?”

4. I keep hearing that ditches are now going to be regulated. Is that true? The EPA/Corps has said that it is specifically excluding certain ditches from regulation under this proposed rule. It is true that the rule specifically excludes ditches in “uplands” that don’t flow to a WOTUS with less than perennial flow. In reality, very few drainage ditches and drainage tile systems are solely in uplands. NDFU’s concern is that other parts of the rule appear to expand to include ditches no matter how often they flow. For example, we are concerned that a wetland with drainage tile that only periodically allows water to flow to such a ditch would now become jurisdictional just because it is close to the ditch. We encourage EPA/Corps to exclude all ditches with less than perennial flow.

5. Can EPA and the Corps regulate groundwater?

No. NDFU is concerned, though, that EPA and the Corps will use groundwater flow to find a connection between a water and a downstream WOTUS. If that connection creates a situation

EPA/Corps has said it is proposing this rule to provide “clarity” and “certainty” in determining what waters are regulated. The agencies already regulate discharges into certain wetlands that are adjacent to other WOTUS, but we are concerned that attempts to provide certainty mean that more wetlands will be regulated under a blanket approach. One proposal is to aggregate “similarly situated” waters – that is, to determine that a group of waters are so similar that they should be viewed as one for purposes of determining whether they will significantly impact a downstream WOTUS. NDFU is very concerned this will result in large areas in the Prairie Pothole Region falling under EPA/Corps jurisdiction just because they are near each other. We have insisted that each water has to be viewed on its own to determine whether pollution in that water will impact the downstream water’s integrity.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

where the Corps determines that pollution in the upstream water significantly affects the downstream WOTUS, the Corps could find the upstream water is also under its jurisdiction.

6. Will my stockpond now be considered a WOTUS and subject to regulation?

The rule used to be that, if you built your stock pond in a wetland that was under EPA/Corps jurisdiction, it would be regulated. It appears that the proposed rule specifically excludes all stock ponds, so it would not be regulated.

7. Why is the EPA/Corps proposing this rule?

The agencies have said they intended to provide clarity and certainty to people who would be regulated. The Corps, which is the agency that makes wetland determinations for purposes of the Clean Water Act jurisdiction, has enormous backlogs of permit applications and jurisdictional determinations of up to a year in some areas, so “clarity” is a noble goal. However, NDFU continues to push to make sure that any such clarity does not inappropriately burden farmers and ranchers. s

October 2014

Senator John Hoeven met with the North Dakota delegation during the fly-in and accepted the “Golden Triangle” award from National Farmers Union. Members traveled to Washington, D.C., in September for the event.

Members fly-in to Washington, D.C. Roughly 250 Farmers Union members gathered in Washington, D.C., Sept. 7-10 for the national flyin. North Dakota sent 40 members to the event. The fly-In featured briefings by top officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and members of Congress and staff. While in Washington, D.C., fly-in participants heard from U.S. officials and concentrated on sharing information on four priority issues including opposing any legislative changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and rejecting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s flawed proposal for 2014 blending targets; stopping any effort to undermine Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL); bringing attention to rail issues in the Midwest;

Three members of the 2014-15 National Youth Advisory Council are from North Dakota and they helped welcome Senator Heidi Heitkamp at a meeting where she received a “Golden Triangle” award from National Farmers Union. Pictured is Nicollette Bitz, Sen. Heitkamp, Lexie Weber and Raelyn Leier.

and ensuring the Trade-Pacific Partnership (TPP) between the U.S. and the Asia-Pacific region is not supported in its current form. North Dakota participants

NDFU Member Advocacy Director Kayla Pulvermacher and NDFU President Mark Watne discuss issues with Legislative Assistant Tyler Jameson at Sen. Heitkamp’s office. 20

October 2014

shared their personal stories on how legislation affects their family farms. They also dined at Founding Farmers’ restaurants and toured the city. s North Dakota’s Summer Staff members pose with NFU President Roger Johnson during the first day’s briefing. From left to right: Kyle Knutson, NFU President Roger Johnson, Rochelle Bitz, Nathan Willer, Alyssa Steiner and Dallon Bitz. Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Congress was in town for only a few short weeks before taking another recess for campaign season in October. This is despite the number of issues important to family farmers needing to be addressed.

Country-of-Origin Labeling

We are now awaiting an October ruling from the World Trade Organization on COOL’s compliance with international trade agreements. After the ruling, there is a 60-day window for an appeal before the WTO issues a final, binding ruling. NFU contends that U.S. trade negotiators should pursue all options available to ensure that COOL remains in effect, and that there will likely be flexibility in whatever findings the WTO announces. Even if the WTO rules partially against the United States in this case, there are still more avenues for trade officials to explore to preserve basic consumer-right-to-know labels like COOL.

Renewable Fuel Standard

The fate of the RFS remains in limbo. Last November, EPA proposed to reduce the 2014 blending targets for the RFS. Yet, observers are still waiting on the Obama administration to finalize targets that were supposed to be completed in June.

is more responsive to the needs of its many customers.The STB Reauthorization Act of 2014 would establish STB as an independent agency, streamline rate case procedures, give STB limited investigative authority, and codify arbitration procedures for disputes between shippers and railroads.

Rail Issues

Trade Promotion Authority

Farmers are considered “captive shippers,” in instances where they only have one railroad as an option and competitive market structures do not exist. In the upper Midwest, where shipping by rail is often the only option for the region’s farmers, rail transportation is month’s behind schedule, resulting in farmers and cooperatives being assessed hefty fines for late deliveries. Sens. Thune, R-S.D., and Rockefeller, D-W.V., have introduced a bipartisan bill that would improve the functioning of the Surface Transportation Board (STB) and ensure that the agency

NFU favors thoughtful consideration of trade agreements by Congress and will continue to advocate for U.S. agriculture in trade negotiations. Agriculture trade runs a surplus for the United States while there is a large trade deficit in other sectors. NFU also supports requiring the U.S. Trade Representative to balance trade every time they intervene.

Voting Records Are In!

Check out our biennial voting records for Congress online at www.nfu.org. Find out how well your members of Congress did on issues that are important to you. s

Meetings with STB in Fargo and D.C. North Dakota’s agriculture industry is sustaining heavy financial losses due to substandard shipping service by BNSF Railway and Canadian Pacific Railway. A Surface Transportation Board (STB) field hearing was held in Fargo on Sept. 4. During the meeting, Gov. Jack Dalrymple shared that a North Dakota State University study showed that railway shipping delays have resulted in at least $67 million in lost farm income on crops sold between January and April 2014. The study, completed before the current harvest, also found the potential for an additional $95.4 million in lost income from the sale of on-farm grain stocks.

Other leaders and elected officials testified during the field hearing including NDFU member Roger Zetocha. He shared his personal story of lost income due to rail delays. During the National Farmers Union Fly-in Sept. 7-10, North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne, along with Member Advocacy Director Kayla Pulvermacher and Farmers Union Insurance General Manager Mark Anderson, had a chance to sit down with members of the STB as well. During their conversation, Watne was able to relay how vital action from the STB is needed for North Dakota. “Although the STB has little power over the

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

railroads, they do have the power of an emergency order,” Watne said. “They have only used this option once since its inception in the 90s and they are hesitant to use it. That being said, it is our duty to relay to the board how the lack of transportation is affecting our members, and I think that message was sent clearly.” The STB is a bipartisan, threemember committee that assumes some regulatory functions that had been administered by the Interstate Commerce Commission before its abolition. Created in 1996, the board’s mission is to resolve railroad rate and service disputes and review proposed railroad mergers. s

October 2014

A great

The third annual WILD (Women in Leadership Development) Conference was held Sept. 17-18 at the NDFU Conference Center with over 200 women in attendance. Three women received a free personal makeover from the Layered Salon in Jamestown and selected clothing from the Sugar Rush Boutique. The before and after results were revealed during the pre-conference party. Makeover participants Ranee Gienger of Center, Shelly Ziesch of Pettibone

success!

and Robyn Shock of Ashley were randomly selected from the list of registrations. Nationally known speaker Taniya Nayak energized the crowd with encouraging words that fit into the conference theme of “It’s a Flippin’ Good Life.” Nayak is the host of HGTV’s “House Hunters on Vacation.” Local Jamestown business woman, Tanea Clocksene, led a humorous interview with Julie Powell in the afternoon. Powell is the author of the bestselling book

BEFORE

and movie, Julie & Julia. Life coach Cari Rauch talked to the group about making positive changes. The conference began with a Ladies’ Night celebration on Wednesday. Hors d’oeuvres and wine were served prior to a Dress for Success presentation and fashion show. Area vendors set up booths for women to purchase merchandise throughout the conference. Door prizes were also distributed. s

THE MAKEOVER – AFTER

Robyn Shock

Sugar Rush Boutique set up a booth to sell clothing and accessories. The store also provided outfits for the makeover. Ranee Gienger

Shelly Ziesch

Robyn Shock, Ranee Gienger and Shelly Ziesch won a free makeover at the Layered Salon.

Keynote speaker Taniya Nayak from HGTV inspired the group and shared great tips.

Tanea Clocksene of Jamestown led a humorous interview with Julie Powell in the afternoon.

More than 200 women attended the third annual fall conference and learned ways to a “Flippin’ Good Life.”

See more photos on Facebook/North Dakota Farmers Union 22

October 2014

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Jana Linderman: North Dakota grown leader is planted in Iowa BY PAM MUSLAND, NDFU

There also is the challenge of building membership numbers, Jana Linderman grew up which she likens to the current knowing a thing or two about demographic challenge facing character building. That’s what agriculture. “We have loyal, her father called 10 acres of newly longtime members retiring and planted trees on their farm near moving out of state. How do we Carrington that required constant bring new people into farming?” she weeding. “The exercise lasted for asks. three summers,” she says straight With farmland around $20,000 faced before cracking a smile. “We an acre in Iowa, Linderman said had a lot of character.” economics dictate the necessity of Throw in lively discussions small farms for beginning farmers around the dinner table, in her state – those who grow for involvement in North Dakota the local food movement or grow Farmers Union’s youth program, specialty crops. and a quest for knowledge, and “It is labor intensive farming. you’ve got the makings of a They are not gardeners,” she Farmers Union state president. says, of some longtime members’ “As a young person, we had hostility toward the idea of conversations at home about bringing these new farmers politics, ideas, concepts,” said into the fold. “And some of Linderman, who was elected those beginning farmers don’t president of the Iowa Farmers have enough understanding Union in November of 2013. of conventional farming. It’s “My parents respected me Jana Linderman (at right) with her mother, Ellen, common ground we have to as an equal. They were not husband Phillip and son, Samuel. figure out if we want to retain a condescending. I participated strong organization. Linderman earned a full ride to Iowa in the conversation,” she says, “A willingness to listen and State University. She met her future acknowledging what a great gift it learn is important to growing and husband there, Phillip Burgart, was that they listened to her voice. adapting. We have to be open to and earned degrees in French and For an impressionable youth, new ideas to move the organization international studies. Then it was witnessing ideas take root at NDFU into the future.” on to Georgetown University, where state conventions during the policy Now 34 years of age, Jana had she earned her law degree. and action debate was also a a transitional “aha moment” herself She and Phillip settled in Cedar leadership gift. several years ago, shortly after her Rapids, Iowa, for his career and The debate “boils the son was born: to find a way to farm soon became Iowa Farmers Union organization down to its most the land that is so much a part of members. She was in private essential notions,” she says with her character. practice several years before passion. “Democratic. Grassroots. “It’s something we’re trying to joining an environmental nonprofit Diversity of age and types of farms. wrestle with as a family; it would be that litigated energy and utility It’s a clear vision of what we stand hard for us to re-settle permanently regulation. for and the value we bring to the in North Dakota right now, but In 2011, their son Samuel table,” especially when an individual maybe I can commute seasonally was born. She then took a break can bring an idea and “have people for a while until we figure out from lawyering and stayed active coalesce around that idea. It was a something better,” she explains. in IFU, eventually becoming the powerful experience growing up in “I’ve changed course a few times organization’s executive director North Dakota Farmers Union.” with my education and my career… and now president. For Ellen Linderman, Jana’s but I feel like I’m heading in the right “The challenge is getting people mother and state secretary on the direction because it’s bringing me enthused and energized,” said NDFU board of directors, having back to where I started from.” Linderman of her role as president. a child as a Farmers Union state To a piece of land, where her “It takes a lot of energy to keep president is “extremely gratifying. It son Samuel can play in the shade people moving forward… and a validates our youth program here in of those now grown trees, building diverse set of leadership skills and North Dakota, big time.” his own character in other ways on ideas that don’t necessarily have to After graduating from high reside just with me as the president. the Linderman family farm. s school as a National Merit Scholar, It needs to be a team effort.”

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

October 2014

Savor the Flavors of the Fall Season! FROM FOUNDING FARMERS

At Founding Farmers and Farmers Fishers Bakers restaurants, our culinary team embraces the fall season (and the new offerings of fresh produce and other delicious ingredients) to add some variety to the menus. Experimenting with inspirational ingredients to create dishes your family can enjoy is a great way to spend chilly fall evenings together. Here are a few menu ideas to get started: • Top grilled chicken with a fresh, sweetly tart apple-cranberry relish. • Create a savory roasted fennel and honey-ginger squash puree to pour over ravioli or a similar hearty pasta. • Embrace the wonderful hues of the season by serving a chopped beet and sliced red onion salad tossed with a light vinaigrette dressing. • Sauté and combine

chopped eggplant, tomatoes, zucchini, onions, and spinach for a flavorful farmhouse ratatouille-style side dish. • Roast sweet potatoes and mix filling with curried apples for a new twist on a seasonal favorite. • Make your own creamy apple butter and spread onto a freshly baked pumpkin spice muffin or in yogurt for a flavorful breakfast treat. • Add a scoop of homemade pumpkin ice cream to warm apple pie for the ultimate in indulgence. • Finish any meal with some warm, soothing yet flavorful autumn chai tea. Taking inspiration from the farm-fresh flavors of the season is a great way to usher in fall, and a delicious way to add depth and variety to your kitchen creations. Of course, there’s always the Founding Farmers Cookbook to

turn to for reference…the holidays aren’t too far off and there’s a whole chapter of recipes for holidays on the farm. Buy a cookbook by calling Eunice at the state office at (800) 366-8331 ext. 127. s

Make farm safety a priority

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation 1.Title of Publication: North Dakota Farmers Union Union Farmer 2. Publication #: 01-6211 3. Date of filing: 9-19-14 4. Issue Frequency: Monthly 5. Issues per year: 12 6. Annual subscription: $30 members 7. Complete address of known office of publication: 1415 12th Avenue SE, Jamestown, ND 58401 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters: 1415 12th Avenue SE, Jamestown, ND 58401 9. Full name and address of publisher: Mark Watne, NDFU President, 1415 12th Avenue SE, Jamestown, ND 58401 Full name and address of editor: Anne Denholm, 1415 12th Avenue SE, Jamestown, ND 58401 10. There are no known bondholders, mortgagees and other security holders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities. 11. Known bondholders, mortgages and other security holders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities: None 12. Tax status has not changes during preceding 12 months. 13. Publication title: North Dakota Farmers Union Union Farmer 14. Issue date for circulation data below: October 1, 2014 Extent and Nature of Circulation 12 Month Average Actual Number Last Run 15.a

Total Number of Press Run

35,323

34,736

15.b (1) Paid/requested Outside County 35,323 34,736 15.b (2) Paid In-County Subscriptions 0 0 15.b (3) Sales Through Dealers 0 0 15.b (4) Other Classes 0 0 15.c Total Paid Circulation 35,323 34,736 15.d (1) Free Distribution Outside Co. 850 850 15.d (2) In County 0 0 15.d (3) Other Classes 0 0 15.d Free Outside Mail 0 0 15.e Total Free Distribution 850 850 15.f Total Distribution 36,173 35,586 15.g Copies Not Distributed 100 100 15.h Total 36,273 35,686 15.i Percent Paid: 97.6% 97.3% 24

October 2014

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

THE

AROUND STATE

County conventions have begun and in Sargent County, Ronda Throener gave a presentation. In December, a synopsis of every county convention will be published in the Union Farmer.

Alyssa M. Steiner (on left) and Jessica Simpson (pictured on right with keynote speaker Taniya Nayak) were each awarded $200 from Burleigh County Farmers Union for the WILD conference. Steiner has been very active with Farmers Union. She is the Bismarck Farmers Union Collegiate Chapter President, has worked at NDFU camp and has attended the NFU Fly-in to Washington, D.C.. She is a senior at University of Mary. Simpson and her husband live in Driscoll with their two children. She was also involved with youth activities in the past and would like to reconnect with NDFU.

Harris Saele of Devils Lake rode his rare tractor, a Shaw Du-All, in the Stump Lake Village Threshing Bee near Pekin. Burke County Farmers Union President, Allie Sagness (right) presented a $500 check to Cindy Winzenburg of Bowbells Ambulance on Aug.12. This was part of the NDFU’s Community Stewards Program. Another Community Stewards program recipient last month was the Great Plains Food Bank. The $500 donation helped provide materials for their 2014 partner agency regional meetings in Dickinson, Grand Forks, Jamestown and Minot. Directors and volunteers gathered together for a day of training sessions that focused on building community support and engaging volunteers.

Mercer County youth ride the Farmers Union float at the Beulah Centennial.

Stutsman County Farmers Union sponsored a bus tour of the oil fields and included a couple from Indiana.

Farmers Union Insurance agents worked at the Big Iron booth. Valley City’s Kirk Olson and LaMoure’s Tatem Brandt modeled the sunglasses that were given away at the event.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

October 2014

You’re Invited

State Convention Meeting:

highlightS:

at the holiday inn in Fargo

pre-regiSter and Save $$

Friday, nov. 21 and Saturday, nov. 22

• diStriCt CauCuSeS • Set poliCy and aCtion • eduCational traCkS • keynote SpeakerS • eleCtion oF oFFiCerS • torChBearer Banquet • youth aCtivitieS

The Gala:

Friday 5:30 p.m.

Buy a tiCket and get a Free wine glaSS. enjoy a SoCial hour with wine and CheeSe taSting. advanCe tiCketS only with proCeedS BeneFiting the ndFu Foundation.

www.ndFu.org The Soiree:

Friday 7 p.m.

a 1940S theme party open to everyone to CeleBrate the 70th anniverSary oF FarmerS union inSuranCe. muSiC, danCing & CoStumeS!

October 2014

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Candidacy Announcements

NDFU elections will be held at the state convention Nov. 21-22 in Fargo for officers and even-numbered districts. many diseases and quality issues. Board of Directors. Being a Board In addition to those concerns, member of this great organization the increase in oil production is truly a great honor. I have always It has been a great in the western part of the state been impressed the way NDFU honor to serve as has inundated the rail system is driven by grassroots directives. North Dakota Farmers making it difficult to have rail cars You, the members, have a strong Union president, and available to haul grain. Farmers voice, I respect and encourage I thank you for the Union has been working with our your input. privilege. There is no congressional members and the My spouse and partner, Jill, and other organization that has such a Surface Transportation Board for I still farm and ranch northeast of strong commitment to working for resolution. Mott. Along with my brother Jerome the benefit of its members and all I look forward to seeing many we raise spring wheat, canola, citizens in the world. of you at your county conventions. barley, hay, cattle and sheep. Our This year has gone by fast and Brenda and I hope to visit with family farm strongly supports the has been both challenging and many of you at the state convention cooperative way of doing business, rewarding. As president, I have in Fargo. I would appreciate your we are long time Farmers Union had several goals. It has been support to continue to serve as members.Â I am asking for your essential to develop and maintain your vice president. support to continue to represent the funding for our projects. It District 4 on the NDFU Board of has been important to have an Directors. I will try my best to see District 2 Director educated, and passionate staff. We that this organization remains a have been committed to creating by Jim Teigen strong voice and advocate for effective tools to communicate with My wife, Rita and family farmers, agriculture and the the membership, and it has been a I, farm near Rugby, good of this country. necessity to carry out the policies and work with our son adopted annually at the convention. David, his wife Jennifer, Finally, we have continued to grow and their three young District 6 Director our insurance company in order sons. We have two by Ellen Linderman to serve our membership and we other children, Jennifer will collaborate with other states to It has been an and Kevin, who work and live with help enhance their Farmers Union their families in Fargo. honor and privilege to organizations. I believe we have My involvement in Farmers serve the members accomplished many of these goals Union began at the local level of District 6 as your and will continue to work on all when I was in high school, then director for North organizational priorities. I thank you continued when we began farming Dakota Farmers Union. for your support and with your vote after college. Our whole family has My current term is up and I am will strive to make this organization participated on several levels over again a candidate for this position. the strongest it can be. the years, and my past two and a North Dakota Farmers Union is half years on the state board have a strong organization because of been particularly meaningful. Office of Vice President you, the members. I appreciate the I believe any organization by Bob Kuylen importance of our youth program, depends on the knowledge and Greetings and parent and youth leader support, involvement of its members. NDFU thank you for electing does a great job of providing the strong connections between me to serve as information for its membership our organization, local co-ops and your vice president. and, in return, those members Farmers Union Insurance. Our Itâ€™s been another provide information and energy organization has always been an challenging year for to the organization. Couple that active leader in promoting a better farming. With very cold with a dynamic staff, and you have way of life. We have done this by and wet conditions in the spring, I the recipe for an effective and taking an active role in seeking the was getting my drill stuck at least influential organization. I ask for three times a day and planting passage of a farm bill. There are so your support to continue as District went well into June. August brought many other NDFU projects such as Director. us 10 inches of rain and cold; our restaurants, the Precision Ag cloudy conditions make it difficult Conference and the WILD program. to harvest. On the positive side, And we now have received the District 4 Director Congress passed a farm bill with news that the fertilizer plant at by James Kerzman a nutrition title tied to it, which is Spiritwood will be built! NDFU Time is not very important to Farmers Union standing still, before has played an integral part in that members. We are also very we know it the North as well. I would appreciate your pleased that CHS, Inc. committed Dakota Farmers Union consideration for another term. I to building the nitrogen plant by convention will be upon am looking forward to visiting with Spiritwood. us. I would like to thank all of you at the upcoming county Even though there are bountiful you members for the conventions. p harvests in most of the state, the opportunity to represent you on the increased moisture has caused

Office of President by Mark Watne

Union Farmer â€˘ www.ndfu.org

October 2014

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. Contact us to repeat your ad. Limit-175 words.

FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE 14.9x38 Firestone tractor tire, nearly new with tube, $500. 320-1783, Dale or Sue Karn, Wimbledon. FOR SALE Versatile 850 Series II tractor, sell reasonable; Versatile 400 20’ swather for parts; JD 14’ press drill with grass seed attachment; Blumhardt pickup mount sprayer with Honda engine. 840-0832, David Berntson, Valley City. FOR SALE 8 row JD all-purpose header with trailer, $4,000; Morris 64’ drag w/sprayer, $3,000; 250 bu. King Chief grain dryer, $300; 400 International 8 row planter, 3 drums, $300; Dakota 8 row cultivator, $150. 839-8663, George Schiele, Minot. FOR SALE 8N Ford tractor with 2 bottom plow & V type snowblower, 60” with 1 wing, $2,500 obo; 84 IH Hydro tractor, 3 pt. and 1 hyd. valve, $7,500 obo; JD 300 Ind. loader and box scraper, $4,500 obo. 218-791-2296, Dave Dennison, Grand Forks. FOR SALE 1985 Massey combine, 865 converted to 860, adjustable air foil sieves, two heads - 9024 24’ and a 20’ JD sunflower header w/Bish adapter, 4,357 hrs, new front drive tires and many new parts the last 2 years, Redi-cop chopper spreads and chops straw and chaff all in one, all to go for $11,500 obo, have a few extra parts to go with also. 465-3221 leave message or e-mail terry73@gondtc.com, Terrance Al Rieder, Drake. FOR SALE Vermeer 605 Super J, dual hydraulic, twine arms, cab monitor, one season on new bars and teeth, $4,500; JD 3960 pulltype forage harvester, cab monitor, 36” 2 row corn head, 6’ pickup head, $5,500; older Haybuster tub grinder, Model 011B, 1,000 pto., $1,500. 226-2977, Bruce Land, Sterling. FOR SALE JD 610, 20’, 3 pt., mounted chisel plow with harrows; 2,000 gal. Enduraplas tank, used for water only. 870-4427, Dean Helling, Golden Valley. FOR SALE Woods rotary mower, batwing Model B320, 1,000 pto., foam filled tires; snow pusher for Skid-Steer, 8’ wide, like new. 230-1203, Dean Bittner, Devils Lake. FOR SALE 800 JD swather, 21’, good condition, needs hydraulic pump, $400; NH3 trailer, good tires, $300. 208-0217, Bob Fritel, Wolford. 28

October 2014

FOR SALE 81 AC 7580, 6,538 hrs., 18.4-38 tires 50%, 3 hyds., pto., big shaft, 2,900 on new motor, Ser.# 2964, $15,000; 1958 Dodge truck, box & hoist, 8.25-20, 318 motor, $1,500. 680-2144, Michael Bunn, Sheldon. FOR SALE 1984 IHC 2300 tandem grain truck, 20’ box & hoist, roll tarp, 3 piece endgate, new red paint on cab and box, L10 Cummins, 9 spd., new camshaft and in-frame overhaul 2008 - new head, $21,500, retired. 7202809, Larry Huizenga, Burlington. FOR SALE Easy Trail 475 grain cart, excellent condition, $7,000 obo. 655-3647, Howard Strand, Brocket. FOR SALE JD 590 swather, 30’, auto fold, $3,000; 35’ Leon chisel plow w/NH3 kit, Ray-Mac hitch, harrows, $3,000. 240-1449, Erling Johnson, Minot. FOR SALE JD 4630 w/power shift, $10,000; JD 4010D, $4,000, both need some work; IHc Super M w/325 DuAl loader & heat houser, $3,500; Honey Bee loader, $2,000; 654 JD all-crop header, 36” rows, $4,000; 930 JD cutting platform w/Koehn trailer, $5,500; 200 Series JD pickup platform w/McCoy Wren pickup on trailer, $1,000; 1978 Versatile 400 windrower, $1,500; 4-whl. windrower transport for selfpropelled windrower, $250; Concord hyd. soil probe, $750; Hesston 5500 round baler, $1,000; JD rotary hoe, $500; JD 21’ drill, $500; JD 24’ drill, $500; Melroe 50’ harrow, $500; Dalman 28’ heavy duty harrow, $500; Concord 40’ air seeder, $8,000; 750 gal. fert. tank on trailer w/ground drive pump & hyd. agitating drive pump, $1,000; 45’ rod weeder to mount on tool bar w/ 3 hyd. motors, $750; Berkeley pto. irrigation pump w/hand primer, 900’ - 4” aluminum pipe w/sprinklers & 30’ 6” suction pipe, $3,000; JD 3 pt. bar, 4”x7”, about 25’, $750; 3 trailer house axles, $100 ea.; top for car lift hoist, $250; 1984 F250 Ford 4x4 pickup w/460 engine, 4 spd. trans., needs some work, $2,000. 373-5480, Donald Jorissen, Valley City.

FOR SALE Tractor parts for Case LA, DC, D, SC, VAC, Minneapolis Moline UR: engine for old U w/solid block; variety of carburetors and magnetos; radiator and other parts for 1962 Rambler; antique Briggs & Stratton washing machine engine, runs well. 845-4303 after 10 a.m., Henrik Voldal, Valley City. FOR SALE New Holland 9’ sickle mower, Model 456, new bar, new guards, new style sickle sections, new skid plates, extra new 9’ sickle, extra sections and guards, very good condition, $2,800. 361-3319, Donald Triebold, Valley City. FOR SALE #70 JD gas tractor motor, stuck, wide front, good 14.9-38 tires, sell all or parts; other parts for JD & IH tractors; straight grills for IH A, H, & M. 240-8545, Lee Keller, Minot. FOR SALE JD A tractor, early 50s model, runs good with good tires; JD riding lawn mower, one owner, used very little; ‘79 1/2 ton Chevy pickup; electric meat saw. 348-3165, Rose Opp, Glen Ullin. FOR SALE Fuel tanks – 1 - 2,000 gallon and 2 - 1,000 gallon. 763-6210, J Carlson, Cleveland.

FOR SALE H International tractor, good shape; A International tractor, good shape; 88 Massey tractor, fair shape, they all run. 320-5556, Joe Schumacher, Pettibone. FOR SALE 2 row corn cultivator for H, M or SMN: 2 row corn planter, 3 & 4 bottom plow packer and press drills; 2 Heros grain cleaners; 1 row silage cutter; Van Vetter 300 - 300 gallon milk tank. 597-3730, larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields. FOR SALE 2 heavy duty hay bale feeders, 8’ x 8’ x 5’, made with 2” tubular steel, $200 obo. 445-7427, Doris Carlson, Mandan. FOR SALE Homemade 8’ cultivator, 3 pt., $50; 54’ Summers harrow tank and hyd. motor, no sections, $100; Glencoe cultivator, 10’, $100; IHC chisel plow, 10’, $100. 2700184, Harold Severson, Lakota. FOR SALE Westfield fertilizer box; 2 ton fertilizer spreader; silage wagon with running gear; swather transport. 679-2135, Terry Kohler, Benedict. FOR SALE Woods 3180 15’ mower; JD 350 7’ mower, shedded; JD 530 baler, new belts, shedded. 845-1962, Ron Winkler, Oriska. FOR SALE Tires – 1 - 12.4-38, 1 - 15.5-38, 2 - 13.438 rear tractor tires. 728-6751, Don Keller, Norwich. FOR SALE MDS attachments for tractor loaders, payloaders, skid-steers, telehandlers; Rockbadgers for skid-steer or payloaders. 7’, 8’, 8.5’, 9’, 10’ scoops with skid-steer mounts, Euro-mounts, JD mounts, Case IH mounts, Farmhand mounts, Dual mounts, etc. w/grapples to fit or retro-fit; heavy-duty 8’ skid-steer manure fork w/grapple; heavy-duty 10’ skid-steer snow-pusher; heavy-duty MDS 7’ or 8’ rock/brush/scrap bucket w/grapple (skidsteer mounts); MDS 5,200 lb. pallet fork for JD 740 classic-tach; MDS Shur-lock quick-tach scoop mounting system for JD loaders (ie. 146, 148, 158, 168, 280, etc.); MDS Euro-Global attachment changer with skid-steer hookup; many other MDS attachments on hand or available; new Koyker 7’ quick-tach scoop; new Koyker 545 FWA loader with 8’ scoop & grapple, mounts available; JD 146 and 148 loaders with mounts; used skid-steer scoops, F-11 & F-10 loaders & loader parts. 7090103, Allen Wald, Edgeley. FOR SALE 1959 F600 Ford 2 ton grain truck, 13’ wood box; 1958 JD 820 diesel tractor, very good condition, 1,597 hrs. on overhaul, always shedded, all complete; Emerson 1 bottom plow; 4 JD cast wheel weights, No. A3404R. 945-2379, Jack Vadnie, Clifford. FOR SALE New seat for International Model A or Super A tractor, $95; set of tractor chains 24” x 10’, good condition, $90. 663-5978, G. H. Schaner. FOR SALE 4020 John Deere tractor, no cab, 2 hyd., new tires all around, 1968 or 1969 Model. 475-2858, Peter Glatt, Driscoll. Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

FOR SALE Gear box drive from Westfield auger, secondary drive for jump auger w/reverser, $400; garbage compactor for 1 ton truck, 6 yd. garbage compactor; 240 bu. feed wagon, 2 hoppers, 2 augers, hyd. drive, with or without heavy trailer; 400 amp Airco welder, 3 ph. electric, welds steel or aluminum, $300 of new tips and cones, rolls wire, on heavy cart, $1,200; 10’ wide 3 pt. blade, new cond., tilts, swivels, all hyd., very heavy duty, $2,300; new heavy duty 48” pallet & forks, $950. 789-0966, Allen Gruman, Cooperstown.

FOR SALE 53 bales, prairie hay, poly tied. 845-1962, Ron Winkler, Oriska.

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.; Peterson dual rims, 18.4-34 to 232.1-30; 11’ wide push-all hay basket for DuAl loader; push-off hay basket for DuAl loader; Versatile 8”x50’ pto. auger; Feretl 6 “x36’ electric auger. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.

FOR SALE 2007 CL 120 Freightliner, Cat 430 hp., Ultrashift, jake, cruise, air ride cab & susp., all alum., low miles; IH 9900, Cat 430 hp., 10 spd., Autoshift, 201” WB, all alum., air susp., cruise, jake, Pro sleeper, service records; Chevy 1 ton dually service truck w/6,000# auto crane, 300 gal. diesel & 100 gal. gas tank, air comp. & tank, excellent rubber, service records for both. 693-2371, Rick Frueh, Martin.

FOR SALE 2 – 6 ply, 16.9/30 New Power Torque Goodyear tires, never mounted, $500 obo. 663-3145, Joseph Bauer, Fort Rice. FOR SALE Parker 938 grain cart, 1,000 bu., $30,000; JD 9560R 800 metrics, power shift, pto., low hrs., new, $285,000; JD 637 35’ disk, 3 bar harrow, $28,500; 2009 Westfield 13x71+ grain auger, low profile topper, $8,900; 2000 Freightliner, day cab, 400 hp. Cummins, 13 spd., wet kit, 395,000 mi., $13,900; 1990 Case 9150, 280 hp., 20.8x42 duals, power shift, field ready, $30,000; JD 4640, 50 Series engine, 18.4x42 duals, Quad range, 3 hyds., $24,500. 549-3420, Shane Heck, Cavalier. WANTED 130-150 hp. tractor, Case or IH preferred, 540 pto., AC needs to work, in good shape; cattle squeeze chute, self catch in good shape. 748-2123, Kyle Riedemann, Hazen. WANTED Used 20.8R-42 tractor tires, good condition. 226-2977, Bruce Land, Sterling. WANTED Flat bed hay trailer with a tongue hitch; 14’ disc; NH 456 mower for parts. 8521150, Art Oen, Minot. WANTED 806, 1206, 1256, 856, 1466 IH tractors; JD 5010, 5020, 6030; MM 1350, 1355; others also, running or not. 628-2130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley. WANTED 4 - 16” semi-mounted plow; 8’ mounted disk. 882-3245, Roger Evanson, Lisbon. WANTED 20’ of JD 9350 drills, must be in good condition; used 2010-2014 Yamaha Grizzly 450 ATV, must be in excellent condition. 945-2379, Jack Vadnie, Clifford. WANTED F10 Farmhand snow scoop, 9’. 475-2858, Peter Glatt, Driscoll.

FEED AND SEED FOR SALE Round bales, prairie broom grass mix, $30 ea.; 70 square bales, $3.50 ea., squares stored inside. 240-8545, Lee Keller, Minot.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1994 Chevy Silverado in good cond., 4 wheel drive, 5 spd., extended cab, full seat in back, seats in good condition, 172,168 mi., 4.3L gas engine, $4,000. 848-2285, 835-2001, Jerry Landers, Kenmare.

FOR SALE 1995 Dodge Dakota, 166,170 mi., loaded, $1,500. 680-2144, Michael Bunn, Sheldon. FOR SALE 2005 Chevy crew cab, 1/2 ton pickup, white w/grey cloth, nerf bars, grill guard, Tonneau cover, 5th wheel ball plate-fold down type, lights, brake controller, 5.3 auto., 123 K mi., $12,500. 543-3843 leave message, Doug or Deb Hannestad, Hatton. FOR SALE 2004 Chevy 2500 HD Silverado, 3/4 ton, V8, LS, crew cab, tonneau cover, nearly new tires, 112,000 mi., $13,000 obo; 2008 Pontiac G8 GT sedan, V8, 75,000 mi., Goodyear Eagle tires, sunroof, alum. wheels, Onstar, excellent, $16,000 obo. 230-4428, Raymond Nelson, Maddock. FOR SALE 1970 Ford 750, 2 1/2 ton, 361 gas engine, 5 & 2 transmission, 900x20 tires, lift tag, 18’ box w/SRT 2 spool roll tarp, 72,000 mi., shedded. 208-1237, Jerry Blessum, Rugby. FOR SALE 1996 Dodge Dakota SLT 4x4, 154,000 mi., V6, 3.9L engine, auto., AC, sliding rear window, power steering, windows & locks, cruise, tilt wheel, AM/FM cassette, bed liner, auto start, tonneau cover, good condition, $3,500 obo. 320-8695, Mike Scott, Spiritwood. FOR SALE 1999 Mercury Sable, V6, good to excellent condition; 1999 Chevy S10, 4 cyl., 5 spd. manual trans., good condition. 337-2042, Dennis Ness, Garrison. FOR SALE 1970 Chevy CST, 1/2 ton, 2 whl. drive, all original, 52,000 mi., good condition, $4,500: 1975 125 Yamaha 125 Enduro motorcycle, good condition, $600. 728-6751, Don Keller, Norwich. FOR SALE 2007 Chevy Malibu, V6, LS sedan, 84,621 mi., new tires & brakes, fresh oil change, charcoal color, PW, PL, cruise, 30 MPG, $8,000. 789-0966, Allen Gruman, Cooperstown. WANTED 1966 - 1977 Ford Bronco or parts for one; also need 351W Ford V8 engine. 6801079, Dylan Ekstrom, Forman.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Baldwin Organ, Model 520, with organ music. 756-6166, Lois L. Johnson, Mohall. FOR SALE Lot of #1 1/2 coil spring, some #2 coil spring, some #2 long spring. 774-9706, Keith Zahn, Williston. FOR SALE Chest type freezer, 123 CF, in good condition, 36”H x 62”L x 28” D. 520-1330, Sharol Rogalla, Minot. FOR SALE Purebred Norwegian Elkhound puppies, born June 26th, valued for intelligence, gentleness, loyalty and friendliness, ready for loving homes Aug. 10th. 6743226 or 649-0265, Sharon Ludwig, New Rockford. FOR SALE Baldwin Chord organ with bench, 2 keyboards, 8 pedals, make offer. 748-6602, Delores Chase, Hazen. FOR SALE Studebaker hood for a 1949-1953 truck, off white - eggshell color, w/original hood ornament and name plate! 628-6949 or 314-640-1884, Mike Ryan, Stanley. FOR SALE 2 Peacock spinning wheels, like new, excellent for beginning spinners. 685-2269, Pauline Bergman, Jud. FOR SALE Old Sears twelve bass silver accordion with case, needs repair. 445-7427, Doris Carlson, Mandan. FOR SALE Printer’s box; 25” x 30” ornate picture frames; country school desk; state bird quilt, stenciled to embroider; Concordia hymnal, 1932. 346-0170, Beaulah Sears, Casselton. FOR SALE 1993 Nomad 24’ 5th wheel camper, good condition, 1 slide out, sleeps 4, AC, furnace, clean, non-smokers, $5,000 obo, upgrading to larger camper, pics. available. 720-4297, Ken Bradley, Ryder. FOR SALE Half price sale on books written by a farmer who is now 88 yrs. old. The first book “Hauling the Biggest Load” is about growing up during the Depression years, losing the farm and was written after losing his only son in an accident. The boy was 25 yrs. old and had spent over 4 yrs. in the Marine Corps. “Grief and Grieving” is a sequel and was inspired by the author being admitted to the hospital after the funeral. He found out later that he had “Broken Heart Syndrome”. Full price was originally $14.95 and $4.95. Now $10.00, postage $2.50, ND sales tax $.50 equals only $13.00. Send orders to J. Richard Hamann, 10468 95th St NE, Langdon, ND 58249-9007 or call 2562406, Richard Hamann, Langdon. FOR SALE Homemade 6’x8’ horse drawn sled; 50 cement blocks; Homco Model AE1803, 4 hp. rider mower; horse drawn potato hiller; horse drawn dirt scoop, very good condition; antique horse saddle. 9452379, Jack Vadnie, Clifford. October 2014

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE New tires – Titan 18.4x38x8 ply bias@$750 ea.; 4 Goodyear Dura Torque 18.4x38x8 ply bias@$690 ea.; 2 Titan 30.5x32,12 or 16 ply, buy 1 or 2; 8 GY Dyna Torque 480/80R42 radials@$1280 ea.; 2 GY Ultra Torque 520/85R42 radials @$1400.ea.; 2 Michelin AgriBib 520/85R42 radials@$1260 ea.; 2 Firestone 520/85R42 radials; 2 BKT 16.9x24x8ply bias@$490 ea. 709-0103, Allen Wald, Edgeley. FOR SALE Horse collars & related items; 45 used utility poles, 35’-50’ long; used tires - 6 Bridgestone tires 245-75-R16; 4 - 22560-R16 M&S; 4 used Firestone P26570-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 mi. 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 R15 Sears Snow Handlers; small cement mixer. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley. FOR SALE Four fiberglass dome tops off IH semis, will sell very reasonably, make offer. 6932371, Rick Frueh, Martin. WANTED 16’ or larger Scramper or Casita brand camper; 1980 Honda Model 90 trail bike, fair condition, running, $675. 663-5978, G. H. Schaner WANTED Oxygen tank for welding, prefer 80 CF or whatever. 256-2406, Richard Hamann, Langdon. WANTED Crocks, jugs with store advertising; old metal advertising signs, gas pumps, old metal oil cans, old advertising clocks or thermometers; old road signs, traps, knives, shell boxes, guns, old pop or old medicine bottles; old 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 Prairie dog hunters to come and hunt on my land, make reservations now. 597-3730 or larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields.

October 2014

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Brick building, 76’x26’, located in downtown Drake, ND, currently being used as a motorhome garage, call for info., $55,000 obo. 465-3400, Ron Cartwright, Anamoose. FOR SALE Residential house w/2 lots in Sheyenne, ND, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, living room, sun porch and kitchen, detached single car garage, 2 patios, very well kept and ready to move into. 341-0491, Jim Hvinden, Maddock. FOR SALE 1995 modular home in Las Vegas, NV, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, completely remodeled and updated, new carpet in Jan. 2014, canopy deck and also a patio w/2 fruit trees & rose bushes, in a 55 and over, gated community, security 24/7, comes w/ community salt water pool, tennis court, house shoe pit & workout room, park has a club house which is open to everyone, close to casinos, $35,000. 839-6529, Marvin Kossan, Minot. CONVENTION NOTICE FOR NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION To All Members: Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, North Dakota Division. Pursuant to Article III. Section 2, of the Bylaws of this Association, you are hereby notified that the 88th Annual State Convention of the Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, North Dakota Division, will be held at the the Holiday Inn in Fargo, North Dakota, November 21-22, 2014. Official business at 10 a.m., November 21, 2014. – Mark Watne, President ATTEST: Ellen Linderman, Secretary ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE OF FARMERS UNION MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY, LTD.

Current policyholders are hereby notified that they are members of the above named insurance company and that the annual meeting of such company will be held at the Holiday Inn in Fargo, North Dakota, beginning Friday, November 21, 2014, and continuing on Saturday, November 22, 2014. – Mark Watne, President; ATTEST: Mark Anderson, Secretary

2015 Excursion Tours!

Wisconsin Dells Coming in June 2015 Limited seats available

??? Mystery Tours ??? #1 May 4 -7 #2 May 11-14 #3 May 18-21 Limited seats available

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

COUNTY EVENTS

Benson – Nov. 4 • 6 p.m. • Maddock Community Center • Annual meeting Bottineau – Oct. 23 • 6:30 p.m. Norway House, Bottineau • Annual meeting Burke – Oct. 26 • Annual meeting Burleigh – Oct. 13 • Tumbleweed Grill, Lincoln • 5:30 p.m. registration, 6:30 p.m. supper • $2.50/person • Fly-in & youth report • Annual meeting Grand Forks – Oct. 27 • 6 p.m. Manvel Community Center • Annual meeting Grant – Oct. 30 • Annual meeting LaMoure – Oct. 24 • 6:30 p.m. Hakuna Matata, Edgeley • Annual meeting McIntosh – Oct. 14 • Annual meeting 8 p.m. • Wishek Armory Mercer – Oct. 16 • Oil field tour Oct. 23 • Annual meeting • Golden Valley Community Center Morton – Oct. 28 • Annual meeting Seven Seas, Mandan Ransom – Oct. 19 • Annual meeting Renville – Nov. 5 • Annual meeting The Club, Mohall Richland – Oct. 12 • Fairmount local annual meeting • 2 p.m. • Fairmount Fire District Hall Sioux – Oct. 24 • Annual meeting Selfridge High School lunch room Towner – Nov. 2 • 5:30 p.m. • Bisbee Senior Center • Annual meeting Ward – Oct. 26 • Annual meeting Holiday Inn, Minot • registration 3:30 p.m., meeting 4 p.m., supper 5:15 p.m. Williams – Oct. 22 • Annual meeting The ARC, Williston

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Opposing the Clean Water Wildlife and Parks Amendment Every election brings about a number of choices for North Dakota citizens to vote. We seem to be in a period of time that not only do we have elections for our public officials, but we have a number of measures that are added to the ballot for consideration. The Clean Water, Wildlife and Parks amendment is the number 5 measure. Our members are very clear on this measure. Our policy states, “We oppose the purchase of North Dakota farmland by environmental groups, investment groups and other outside investors.” (To access the complete Policy and Action book, go to www.ndfu.org under the green “Resources and Forms” tab.) There are a number of troubling things with this measure. First, the dollars could be used to acquire

land that will put conservation groups in competition for farmland with farmers and ranchers. Second, we passed conservation funding last session called the Outdoor Heritage Fund. It includes up to $15 million per year for conservation projects. So far, all projects that have applied to this fund that meet the criteria have been funded and they still have dollars available to fund other projects. If there was a need for more money, would not the fund be depleted? Third, this is a constitutional measure that means 5% ($4.8 billion over 25 years) of the oil extraction tax goes directly to the fund without any oversight by the legislature. Do not let the name of this measure fool you. It is simply a source of funds out of the general fund that could otherwise be used

for infrastructure and education, but instead could funnel to groups to potentially acquire land through purchase or easements, restricting the use for agriculture. Members of Farmers Union: there will be a number of ads and propaganda supporting this measure. The majority of these dollars funding this effort are coming from out-of-state organizations that see our state as a refuge and not as a major food producer. It is time to get out the vote! Call your friends, city cousins and relatives and encourage them to oppose this measure. Nearly every farm organization in North Dakota is opposing this measure. We are totally united. Let’s work together to defeat this measure. p Vote no on Measure 5!

We’re United AGAINST North Dakota Dairy coalition

The Clean Water Wildlife and Parks Amendment Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

October 2014

Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division

Use thie code to get more information about the state convention or go to www.ndfu.org

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