March Union Farmer

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

UNION FARMER www.ndfu.org

In this issue 4.

Land values soar

8.

Dakota Pride Cooperative receives grant

12.

Salute to a soldier

23.

Step up and get involved

CELEBRATING 85 YEARS March 2012 – Volume 59 Number 3

March/April

2012

to It’s time s e x pay ta

Annuities may be the key to your retirement planning. They

allow you to earn interest on your financial contributions while deferring your overall tax liabilities. Whether you pay taxes in March or April, ask your hometown Farmers Union Insurance agent to show you how the numbers can add up in your favor.

North Dakota Union Farmer

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

Annual subscription is $5 for members (paid in membership dues) and $12 for non-members.

NDFU membership dues are $25 annually.

Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, ND.

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DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EDITOR: Anne Denholm 1-800-366-8331 • www.ndfu.org adenholm@ndfu.org

STATE DIRECTORS: Jon Erickson; James Kerzman; Wes Niederman Jr.; Dennis Stromme; Ben Vig

President: Elwood “Woody” Barth Vice President: Bob Kuylen Secretary: Ellen Linderman Treasurer: Terry Borstad

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NDFU PO Box 2136 Jamestown N.D. 58402-2136 Copies mailed this issue: 35,200 • USPS 016-211

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Celebrate American agriculture is responsible for providing the necessities of everyday life ... food, fiber, clothing and even fuel. That’s the message of National Ag Day, which is celebrated March 8, 2012.

National Ag Day is a time when producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies and countless others across America gather to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by American agriculture.

As the world population soars, there is even greater demand for the food, fiber and renewable resources produced in the United States.

Agriculture provides almost everything we eat, use and wear on a daily basis, and is increasingly contributing to fuel and other bio-products. A few

generations ago, most Americans were directly involved in—or had relatives or friends involved in— agricultural-related endeavors.

Today, that is no longer the case.

Americans need to understand the

value of agriculture in their daily lives.

Celebrate Ag Day with Ward County at a special spaghetti dinner March 22 from 11:30 - 1 p.m. at the Moose Lodge in Minot.

Keep it Local coalition rallies support By anne Denholm, NDFU

Controversy over Measure 2, the proposed amendment to eliminate property taxes in North Dakota, reached new heights after six press conferences were held throughout the state in February.

The coalition called “Keep it Local North Dakota” hosted the events to explain their stand against Measure 2. The group represents more than 200,000 people from civic organizations and businesses.

North Dakota Farmers Union is a member of the Keep It Local North Dakota, a non-partisan coalition of concerned citizens, associations and businesses, dedicated to preserving the right of local control over local services.

On June 12, 2012, North Dakotans will be asked to vote on Measure 2 which will amend our state’s constitution by eliminating Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

all property taxes and require the state legislature to replace property taxes with other state tax revenue.

The Keep it Local coalition makes the following points: • Measure 2 mandates that the Legislature replace the revenue lost from the elimination of property taxes from other sources. It would be up to the Legislature to determine how to offset the loss in revenue. As a result, it is likely the burden would simply be shifted to state fees and other taxes.

• If Measure 2 passes and becomes part of the state constitution, it will be extremely difficult to remove or correct.

• Tax policy should be made by elected officials and not locked into the state constitution. Measure 2 would make the Legislature reponsible for determining the funding for more than 2,000 political subdivisions.

• Measure 2 imposes a onesize fits all government in North Dakota. It will be difficult for the Legislature to determine the specific needs of each community or county.

• Power goes to Legislature.

Local citizens now vote on local issues like parks projects, water and street projects and building new schools.

• Out of state property owners would pay no tax but still receive services. Currently $126.8 million or 16.7% of all property taxes are paid by non-resident property owners. Measure 2 would leave this property untaxed and create potential problems with recreational and real estate speculators.

Supporters of Measure 2 want to abolish property taxes because they believe property taxes are unfair For more information go to: http://keepitlocalnd.com/

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Rising land values

by Anne Denholm, NDFU

Just prior to the end of the year, the North Dakota tax department certified the agricultural land values for 2012 and distributed them to 53 counties.

The information shows that on average, agricultural land values for 2012 will increase 29 percent over 2011 values across the state. The increases range by county from 19 percent to almost 39 percent. This is a significant increase and has generated questions about what is causing the price jump.

According to North Dakota Tax Commissioner, Cory Fong, agricultural land values are not based on market value. He said, “In other words, unlike residential or commercial property, agricultural land values are not based on recent and comparable sales.”

Agricultural land values are based on the land’s agricultural 4

value, taking into consideration the productivity of the land, cost of production (input costs), capitalization rate (average of mortgage interest rates), and acres of county cropland and noncropland. This calculation, which is performed prior to December 1 each year by the Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics at North Dakota State University (NDSU), results in an average agricultural value per acre of cropland, non-cropland and inundated agricultural land for each county. These average values per acre, calculated by NDSU, are provided to the tax department and the department certifies and distributes these values to the 53 counties at the end of each year to use when setting their agricultural land values.

While the good production years being included in the 2012 calculation contributed to the

increase in agricultural land values for 2012, along with acreage shifts between non-cropland and cropland in isolated counties, the major contributor to the overall increase in agricultural land values is the capitalization rate, which was reduced from 7.4 percent for 2011 to 5.864 percent for 2012. The change in the capitalization rate, alone accounts for 26 percent of the 29 percent average increase in agricultural land values.

Fong explained, “Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring and I, along with the staff from NDSU, met and discussed these issues just after the first of the year. We all agreed that given the significant increases in agricultural land values for 2012 and the resulting questions being generated, it is important that we begin to get the word out about why this is happening.” s

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

They’re here...

soybean cyst nematodes

After high infestation, a soybean field will exhibit above-ground symptoms that may be mistaken for other problems.

By Anne Denholm, NDFU

Producers learned more about soybeans at the “Getting it Right” meeting on Jan. 27 in Jamestown.

North Dakota State University Extension Service faculty and staff presented current research-based information to help area farmers with soybean production decisions for the 2012 growing season.

Sam Markell, NDSU extension pathologist, provided an update on disease outlook and results from field research conducted last year. Hans Kandel, extension agronomist, talked about variety selection, chlorosis prevention and water management. Greg Endres, extension specialist on cropping systems, gave information on soybean management, chemical products and weed issues.

During Markell’s presentation, producers heard about soybean cyst nematodes. “This is going to be our biggest management problem for soybeans. Once you have a soybean cyst nematode problem, you own it and can’t get rid of it. The good thing is that you can manage it,” he said.

Soybean cyst nematodes are small plant-parasitic roundworms that attack the roots of soybeans.

Most nematodes can only be observed with magnification.The presence of nematodes can’t be detected until the population has spread and begins to cause above ground symptoms. The cysts can Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

move and spread quickly.

Markell explained, “Anything that moves soil can move a cyst.

One of the biggest ways it spreads is on equipment that has soil on it like on a pickup, combine or tractor.

When soil blows around or when floods occur, you can bet that the cysts are moving, too.”

The infestation into North Dakota began in 2005 when it was first detected in Richland County.

Since that time, the nematodes have spread into several counties and Markell suspects that it has already reached Stutsman County.

“It’s probably here. It’s pretty widespread,” he said. “If you don’t have it now, you probably will soon but if we’re on the front end of this problem now, we can manage it.”

Above-ground symptoms mimic other culprits like herbicide

injury, drought stress or other plant disease so detection of soybean cyst nematodes is difficult. Markell recommends that producers test soil at hot spots in the field like at field entrances, fence rows or where soybeans appear to be stunted or yellow. Soil testing can be done at any time but harvest season is best. Soil samples may be sent to an area lab for processing.

Once diagnosed, farmers can use crop rotation and different soybean varieties to help control the population of soybean cyst nematodes. Markell added, “Crop rotation is important and should be a part of your management program. We have a lot of nonhost crops and resistant soybean varieties that will help reduce the number of hatched eggs.” s

Soybean cyst nematodes are small parasitic roundworms that attack the roots of the soybean. Most nematodes can only be observed with magnification. The program was sponsored by the North Dakota Soybean Council.

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Grant awarded to Dakota Pride Cooperative

During a recent trip to Japan, representatives from Dakota Pride Cooperative met with their foreign customers and saw how soybeans are used to manufacture tofu. Pictured from left to right: Vance Taylor, David Teigen, Hiraota Mistubashi, Soji Komamoto and Judge Barth.

By Anne Denholm, NDFU

Dakota Pride Cooperative received a $49,000 grant through the value added producer program from USDA Rural Development.

According to Dakota Pride Cooperative executive director Leland “Judge” Barth, the money will be used to expand their market reach. Barth said, “This grant will be used to open new markets in southeast Asia. We are excited for our future and this money will allow us to market our identitypreserved, non-genetically modified soybeans.”

Since 1998, Dakota Pride has been creating marketing opportunities for its members by adding value to their crops through an identity preserved marketing system. The cooperative has grown from strictly focusing on domestic markets to capitalizing on opportunities overseas where there is a high interest in knowing where products have been produced.

Barth explained, “We will be able to use the grant money for a variety of things like sending samples to our overseas customers, testing the soybeans, overseas trade missions and working with our legal team to develop contracts between Dakota Pride, customers and farmers here in North Dakota.”

Building relationships with 8

overseas customers is crucial.

“Reverse trade missions are important. We want our customers to visit with producers here.

We want them to see our market, ride in the combine, see how we load the trucks,” Barth added.

Dakota Pride Cooperative has been very successful in establishing a market in Japan.

The soybeans shipped there have been used to produce tofu.

New customers in southeast Asia are looking to use soybeans to make soy sauce. Barth said that understanding the end use is a key to opening up the foreign markets.

“You can’t push bean varieties.

You have to know what they need, capitalize on good timing and listen to their needs,” he said. “It also boils down to price.”

Part of the process of attracting

new customers involves education.

Dakota Pride Cooperative provides information on how and where the soybeans are produced as well as pricing, quantity, samples, analysis and non-GMO certificates.

“It all takes time,” Barth commented. “It comes down to market development and that’s why this grant will be very helpful to us.

It allows us to cover those costs incurred in the process.”

Bowdon Meat Processing Plant in Bowdon, N.D. also received a $49,500 grant to help operate their plant as well as market value-added meat products. The farmer-rancher owned cooperative was formed to open a new state inspected processing facility, replacing a plant that previously closed. Farmers and ranchers will now have a plant to locally process their livestock and also to sell their products to customers for retail re-sale across the state of North Dakota.

Value-added producer grants may be used for feasibility studies or business plans, working capital for marketing value-added agricultural products and for farmbased renewable energy projects.

Value-added products are created when a producer increases the consumer value of an agricultural commodity in the production or processing stage. s Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Global leaders meet in Switzerland World Farmers Organization (WFO) president and National Farmers Union vice president for international affairs, Robert Carlson, attended the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland last month. The forum meets annually to develop strategy to improve the state of the world. The gathering is a highlevel assembly of business and government leaders from around the world, and is privately financed.

“The world’s leaders are deeply worried about our ability as farmers to feed a growing world population and they want to hear farmers’ voices to find solutions,” said Carlson. “The good news is that agriculture has never received such prominent attention since the end of World War II, but there are some real challenges for us, too. Water supplies for irrigation are being drawn down faster than they are being recharged and the demands for using fertilizer and pesticides more efficiently and sparingly are real. On top of that, we face the uncertain effects of climate change.

We know it is happening, but we don’t really know how it will affect our individual farm production. The bottom line is that we are being asked to produce more with less.”

North Dakota Farmers Union president Woody Barth added, “It

is critical that family farmers and ranchers are heard around the world. We will continue to stand up for agriculture not only in North Dakota but for our fellow producers across international lines. We must work together to meet the world’s food, fuel and fiber needs. We should be proud that one of our own, Robert Carlson, is leading the charge with his new position with the World Farmers Organization and National Farmers Union.”

Agriculture, water use, energy development, and climate change are interconnected in a complex relationship that demands different solutions in different parts of the world. The WEF is dedicated to finding efficient, decentralized and practical solutions as quickly as possible through partnerships between private business and government policy. In the developing countries, that means a combination of many improvements to increase farm production, including sources of credit, property rights, plant and animal research, and a whole series of infrastructure improvements such as road transportation, farm supply businesses, storage for fruit, vegetables, grains and meat, and an extension service – things that already exist for the developed world’s farmers.

“To feed another 2 billion people in the next 40 years is a huge opportunity for agriculture, and we know that we can do it because we have before,” said Carlson. “The main point that I make at these meetings is one that is sometimes overlooked in the larger world view: if the world wants farmers to produce more food and fiber in a more sustainable manner, we will do it if we get a price for our products that yields us a profit. Every farmer, whether they are in a poorer country or a richer country, wants to make a profit and improve the quality of life for her or his family. We will make the investments in assets to improve production and efficiency if we have a price incentive and the ability to control some of our economic risk.” s

In December, North Dakota Farmers Union sent a letter to the Department of Labor asking for the proposed child labor safety regulations for agriculture to be reconsidered.

The U.S. Department of Labor announced that they are reevaluating the parental portion of the proposed child labor safety regulations for agriculture and agriculture-related jobs while moving forward with the hazardous occupation portions of the proposed rules.

National Farmers Union, along with other organizations like North Dakota Farmers Union, sent letters about the ruling in December.

NDFU president Elwood “Woody” Barth agreed, “In a farm family, every member plays a valuable role in the economic success of the farm. Farming is not simply an occupation, but a lifestyle that has been passed down from generation to generation. In order to ensure

the viability of our family farms for the future, it is critical that farmers are able to teach their children and grandchildren how to perform agricultural work safely and responsibly.”

Farm safety is an issue of the utmost importance to the organization. “NDFU commends the department on its efforts to make workplaces safer for youth, in implementing these efforts. It is good to know the administration responded to the concerns that were communicated on the proposed rules. The department should be able to strike a balance between the safety concerns, what is feasible for family farmers and what is enforceable for the federal government,” concluded Barth. s

WFO president Robert Carlson

Proposed child labor rule reevaluated

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

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Hazelton co-op merges with Central Dakota Frontier

By Anne Denholm, NDFU

A page in the history book has been turned. As the oldest Farmers Union Oil Company in North Dakota, Farmers Union Oil Company of Hazelton will leave its old name behind and become part of Central Dakota Frontier Cooperative. It is a new chapter for the co-op.

Over 70 people attended a meeting before voting for the proposed merger. A 75 percent approval rate was needed to make the change and 89 percent of the votes were cast in favor of the unification. Curt Abfalter, a business service manager for Business Solutions, part of Cenex Harvest States, presented information about the current market, economy and challenges for the cooperative. Increasing demands for marketing services and working capital were cited as reasons for the merger. According to Abfalter, “Combining the two co-ops would increase purchasing power and the ability to better compete in the marketplace.”

Members of the Farmers Union Oil Company of Hazelton will become patrons of Central Dakota Frontier Cooperative. Upon approval by patrons, a new board of directors will be made up of seven members.

The merger took effect Feb. 1, 2012. s

Burleigh County Farmers Union holds meeting

By Terri Lang, NDFU

Burleigh County Farmers Union (BCFU) invited SuAnn Olson, CPA partner from Eide Bailey, to speak at their meeting on Friday, February 10, at the Cenex business building in Bismarck. Olson talked about the financial impacts the oil industry has had on the residents out west. Olson’s topic “Meet the Bakkens” compared the changes in lifestyles to those of the Beverly Hillbillies. “These were like regular people hitting the big lottery.” Olson presented the history, terminology, and alarming statistics that have become a part of today’s state’s economy.

BCFU county president Arlene Olson conducted a

NDFU Youth David and Emily Dutton talk about summer camp.

Keynote speaker SuAnn Olson discusses the financial impacts of oil country.

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short business meeting. North Dakota Farmers Union outreach coordinator Terri Lang gave a report on NDFU activities and projects.

David and Emily Dutton from Menoken shared their stories of NDFU summer camp. Emily said she loved Farmers Union camp. “I met so many great friends.

We made posters, built towns, had a scavenger hunt, had fun dances, and stayed up late.” David enjoyed camp as well and indicated they set up a cooperative and a town. “We also had the rock climbing wall and that was a lot of fun.”

Members enjoyed a potluck dinner and great conversation prior to the meeting. s Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Conference held on Dakota grown local foods More than 150 local farmers, consumers and others spoke out and learned about where food comes at the eighth annual Dakota Grown Local Foods Conference, Feb. 3-4, in Fargo.

Conference organizers planned the event to encompass a wide variety of topics including production, marketing, agri-tourism and social media. Sessions were developed for people looking to learn more about the nuts and bolts of growing fruits and vegetables, how to make a business out of growing and how to be more involved in their communities.

A conference favorite was John Hendrickson from the University of Wisconsin-Madison who spoke about equipment options for small scale vegetable production. He also conducted a session on the economics of running a small vegetable farm.

Other production-focused sessions included discussions on northern fruit projects, irrigation methods for small operations, and recognizing and managing vegetable diseases.

Attendees looking for opportunities to get engaged in local foods could choose from sessions dealing with the future, scaling up local foods with farm to school and social media. A

panel discussion by farmers market managers rounded out the weekend.

The conference also included the annual meeting of the North Dakota Farmers Market & Growers Association, a listening session on USDA specialty crop block grants and appearances by North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring and Keith Groven of Black Gold Potatoes. New to the conference was an active crowd of food, farm and parenting bloggers from across the state.

The event was sponsored by the North Dakota Farmers Market and Growers Association, the North Dakota Department of Agriculture through a USDA specialty crop block grant, Nodak Mutual Insurance Co., Sysco North Dakota, Inc., and the Entrepreneurial Center for Horticulture at Dakota College. s

Building a better North Dakota A series of 12 North Dakota 2.0 community meetings led

by USDA Rural Development were held this winter. The 2.0 initiative focuses on bringing North Dakotans together to make a conscious effort in shaping the future of the state.

“Engaging and listening to communities is pivotal to building a better North Dakota,” said USDA Rural Development state director Jasper Schneider.

“N.D. 2.0 is an opportunity for North Dakotans to participate in charting out what the future of our great state looks like.”

The meetings were designed to receive feedback from a wide cross-section of people leading up to a N.D. 2.0 Summit this spring in Fargo. By collaborating, North Dakotans can capitalize on the state’s abundance of opportunities while also addressing the challenges.

NDFU board members Ben Vig and Ellen Linderman attended the ND 2.0 meeting in Jamestown.

Cabbage is healthy and versatile vegetable

By Founding Farmers Restaurant

With cabbage being one of the only crops to be consistently harvested for roughly threequarters of the year in North Dakota, we wanted to focus this month’s Farmers Corner on this healthy, hearty, versatile and delicious vegetable. At Founding Farmers, some of our most popular dishes have been made with fresh cabbage: The Cabbage. This versatile veggie can be eaten raw, where it will taste crisp or enjoyed cooked (boiled or sautéed are favorite techniques), where the flavor Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

mellows and sweetens the longer it cooks. Cabbage is chock full of healthful nutrients and vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin A and fiber. It is known to have the fewest calories and least amount of fat of any other vegetable.

Fresh cabbage should have fresh, crisp, firmly-packed leaves. Once harvested, wrap head of cabbage in plastic, then refrigerate for 1-2 weeks. If cabbage has already been cut, it will keep a few days in the refrigerator if pieces are wrapped in plastic.

Here’s an easy coring tip: first, halve or quarter the cabbage, then cut out the core. Chop or slice

leaves as needed.

And to get your creative juices flowing, here are some other ways to enjoy cabbage: • Make a satisfying stuffed cabbage as a main course.

• Try a new twist on stew: create a cabbage stew with meat or lamb on the bone.

• Add cabbage to vegetable soup for some hearty flavor.

• Pickle it! Try your hand at pickling cabbage as a sweet and savory side dish.

• Add thinly-sliced red cabbage to a green salad for a great pop of color. s 9

March 4-7 at National Farmers Union means that it is convention time in Omaha. We have put together a very diverse program this year, with a solid lineup of speakers that includes U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture Ranking Member Collin Peterson and Howard G. Buffett.

NFU is proud of its grassroots structure, and that is clear through the method by which policy is adopted in the organization.

On Tuesday evening of the convention, the NFU Foundation is hosting the third “Evening for Education” event. Funds raised at the Foundation event support Farmers Union education programs. So, if you have not already registered for convention or bought a ticket to the event, please

do so soon. Visit www.nfu.org/ convention for all the details.

Also this month, we will release the second phase of our study that we have been working on with Dr. Daryll Ray and the team at the University of Tennessee.

The second phase of the study has allowed us to develop a Market-Driven Inventory System (MDIS) that provides an alternative policy for the upcoming farm bill discussions that is fiscally responsible. As we release more details on the system, we will post details on the website.

The president released his budget in early February. NFU remains strong in encouraging the administration to take a look at where it is cutting funding, as agriculture has already taken its fair share of cuts. While we understand there will be cuts, we cannot continue to bear cuts before other

sectors take some of the burden.

There will be many times over the next few months that NFU will call on its members to contact congressmen and other officials on topics, especially relating to the farm bill. So, be on the lookout for action alerts, as these grassroots campaigns truly are making a difference.

We have nearly reached our goal with the Feeding America campaign. In these last few days leading up to convention, we have reported approximately $42,000 in contributions. We are just shy of our $50,000 goal. We are optimistic that we will meet the challenge that was put forward by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation.

As spring approaches, NFU will be very busy, as will our members.

Good luck to you all and we hope to see you in Omaha! s

Applications due for beginning farmers program National Farmers Union (NFU) encourages individuals who are contemplating starting a career in farming or ranching to apply for the Beginning Farmer Institute.

The program is also open to those across the nation who have just begun farming or are in the process of transferring an operation from a parent, relative, or non-relative.

Beginning farmers and ranchers face a seemingly unlimited number of decisions to make, from drawing up a business plan and arranging financing to learning what programs are available to make it easier to start up and sustain a successful operation.

“This program will answer the questions new farmers have, and more importantly share our expertise to answer questions that people do not always think of asking when they begin farming,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. “The Beginning 10

Farmer Institute underscores our commitment to growing family agriculture.”

Applicants accepted into the 2012 program will attend three separate education sessions, to be held in April in Washington, D.C., November in Minneapolis, Minn., and at the NFU Convention in March 2013 in Springfield, Mass. Program topics will cover business planning, understanding U.S. Department of Agriculture

programs, tax and record keeping, and marketing.

A $25 registration fee is required for accepted candidates.

The NFU Foundation will cover the costs of materials, transportation, and lodging. This program is supported by the NFU Foundation, Farm Credit and CHS Foundation.

To apply, visit www.nfu.org/ education, fill out the form and return it by the March 14, 2012, deadline. s

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

By Anne Denholm, NDFU

advancing women leaders in Women in Leadership community and politics. Her Development (WILD) had work is characterized by her an opportunity to hear asset-based approach to training a nationally recognized and the number and diversity of speaker at two regional women who participate. events held in February.

“Women’s leadership Liz Johnson, the White programming is very important to House Project’s national any organization. It’s exciting to director, was the featured get groups of women together to keynote speaker on see what they can learn and do,” Monday, Feb. 6 in Minot Keynote speaker Liz Johnson with Johnson added. “We need to and on Wednesday, Feb. 8 outreach coordinator Jane Opdahl. recognize the need for diversity in Jamestown. The WILD to improve our bottom line and events were coordinated invest in women’s leadership

by North Dakota Farmers skills.”

Union.

During her presentation, According to Carla Johnson focused on what Edinger, NDFU outreach women can do to succeed and director, “We had women encouraged people to lead in of all ages in attendance. their own communities. “We Our keynote speaker, Liz have a lot of great women Johnson was absolutely leaders and that’s a valuable wonderful and her message resource. We need to capitalize was so powerful.” on the strengths that women Johnson has bring to the table. We should coordinated White House encourage women to run for city Project (WHP) leadership council, take a board position at training programs within the local co-op and be willing to the region since 2004.

Participants enjoyed great food at each take chances.”

A leader in the design regional event.

President Elwood “Woody” and implementation of Barth agreed, “We are proud rural women’s leadership to bring educational programming to the programs, she has worked and trained organization. It’s important for all members to women from over 250 cities and towns across step up and take on leadership roles for North the Midwest. As a seasoned organizer with Dakota Farmers Union. The WILD program is over 20 years of community experience, a good example.” s she has dedicated her life to building and

This group of ladies in Jamestown got WILD and stopped to pose for this photo.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

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By Anne Denholm, NDFU

Jennifer Sundeen started work with North Dakota Farmers Union in October and as education director, she is in charge of coordinating summer camps, youth classes, volunteer training and other related duties. But she has taken on a lot more than her present job. She has literally been around the world, serving her country and living her dream.

From southern Minnesota, Sundeen attended St. James High School and during her senior year, signed up to serve in the Minnesota National Guard.

After basic training, Sundeen obtained certification in the communications field with multi-channel transmission systems, as a radio operator and in RAID training.

“The military is like one big family and everyone looks out for each other. I first joined the guard just for college money but I realized there is more to it than that. Radio operators are crucial in military communication to let everyone know current position, where troops are located and if back-up is needed.

It’s an important job,” Sundeen said.

One of the more tangible benefits of military service was the opportunity to travel. Her training brought her to several states including California, South Carolina, Georgia, Louisiana and Texas.

Sundeen also enjoyed several concerts including Tanya Tucker, Keni Thomas, Tracy Byrd, Rascal Flatts and Robin Williams. International travel was also part of her experience. In 2003, Sundeen participated in the 30th annual United States/ Norwegian Troop Reciprocal Exchange program. A group of soliders traveled to Norway and experienced life at the Norway Naval Base. At the farewell banquet held in their honor, Sundeen met Norway’s King Harald V. However, her service was not all about meeting royalty. Sundeen practiced for urban warfare, trained in close quarter combat, went on convoy patrol and completed desert operatives. It all prepared her for the news that her unit would be activated for Iraqi Freedom in 2004 for one year. Sundeen was deployed in March and left for Kuwait in October.

“We were in Kuwait for a month,” Sundeen explained, “We had to get acclimated to the climate and time change. Then, we convoyed to Iraq. It took four days because we only traveled three or four hours a day because of safety reasons. When we crossed into Iraq, you could see the landscape change. It was very rocky although there were still

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sandstorms.”

Sundeen was stationed at Camp Liberty, the largest base in Baghdad, with the National Guard 134th Signal Company. At Camp Liberty, she worked as a gopher. Sundeen said, “I got to do a little bit of everything. I worked in the post office, had jobs at different signal sites and at the helipad, manifesting flights. Operating the aerostat balloon was pretty interesting, too.”

The aerostat balloon was equipped with cameras to watch activity in the Baghdad area. Sundeen would run the cameras and monitor any questionable activity that might indicate people installing explosive devices.

Jennifer Sundeen had fun washing the aerostat balloon.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

“It was important to monitor the local activity because you never knew when danger would hit you. During my time at the Butler Range, we heard about some local merchants who ran a shop on the base. They were executed by insurgents. That was hard to hear about,” she added. “I learned to sleep with helicopter sounds and through rifle shots. You just learn to tune it all out.”

Sundeen reflected, “When I was at the airport in uniform, people would come up to me and thank me for my service but I really accepted their thanks on behalf of everyone who has ever served. Other generations were drafted and didn’t have a choice and weren’t appreciated for what they did for our country. It’s what I represent Adding helium to the aerostat balloon and I’ll take their appreciation for all veterans.”

I’m so excited to work at NDFU. Camp is great and After a year in Iraq, Sundeen was sent home, but summertime is when fun is supposed to happen. The it was during her time in Iraqi Freedom that Sundeen cooperative and leadership education we provide realized she wanted to take a new direction in her life. adds a component to the program that people should “I decided to go to college and pursue an education respect. I’m excited for camp this year and I’m really degree,” Sundeen said. glad to be here.” s So after returning to the United States, the veteran headed to Minnesota State UniversityMoorhead where she earned a bachelor of arts degree. She signed up to complete her student teaching in London, England. While there, Sundeen traveled and saw Paris, the white cliffs of Dover, explored underground tunnels, and hiked on the moors in Ireland.

“There are so many opportunities to travel and I wanted to do it all before I settled down with a family.

After college, I got married and spent some time in the classroom, teaching third grade in Waubay, S.D.,” she commented.

Looking back on all her experiences and travels, Sundeen says it all fits together, “My background gives me perspective to see all the opportunities out there. I have fun working with kids. That’s why Getting ready to convoy to Iraq

Camels wander in the desert climate.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

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Messagefromthe

Rochelle Bitz serves on the National Youth Advisory Council.

Bitz is a senior at Napoleon High School, and is the daughter of Darrell and Danita Bitz of Napoleon. Here is a heart-felt message she presented at the state convention.

Submitted by ROCHELLE BITZ

I started being active in Farmers Union when I was eight years old with day classes. Since then I have attended junior camps, senior camps, award trips, and have had the opportunity to serve on the Senior Youth Advisory Council, the National Youth Advisory Council, and to be a junior counselor. I think it’s hard to explain to people just what exactly Farmers Union camp is. Many people can say that they attend basketball camp, music camp, or and you know exactly what they went for and what they learned.

You can’t say that you learn only farming at Farmers Union camp.

You learn about cooperation, leadership, social skills, and yourself. The camp projects range from learning about the world around us, to natural disasters, to the legal system.

I remember thinking after my first year of camp that nothing could top it. I would never go to a camp that was more fun and take home even better memories, but I was wrong. Each year camp got better and better. Every year I learned more and had even more amazing

Scholarship opportunity Cenex of Bismarck/Mandan is offering eight $500 scholarships to qualifying students. The scholarships will be awarded to four incoming freshman and four current college students. To qualify, applicants and/or guardian must be a patron member of Cenex of Bismarck/Mandan and yearly purchases must be a minimum of $1,000 from any of our nine store locations.

To receive an application visit our website at: www.cenexofbismarck.com/scholarship.php or stop at any of our nine Cenex locations in Bismarck, Mandan, Dickinson, and Sterling or at our Broadway office.

Return completed applications to: Cenex - Farmers Union Oil Company Bismarck/ Mandan Scholarship Committee 219 North 20th St. PO Box 2317 Bismarck, ND 58502 Deadline: April 15, 2012 14

experiences. One of my favorite Farmers Union memories is the tradition that on the last morning of senior camp, the campers will get up early and go to a spot that overlooks the lake to watch the sunrise. It doesn’t make much sense as to why we would want to do this. We have packing to do and cleaning to get done before we leave and we’re already tired so why would we want to get up even earlier? I think the answer to that is that no one is ready to go home. We’re not ready to say goodbye to our Farmers Union family from that week and we just want to hang on to that great feeling that comes from being at camp a little while longer.

I think that all of us are a little bit unsure of our futures.

But no matter where we end up, we’ll take what we learned from Farmers Union to help grow as better individuals and help shape the future in a positive way. I would like to thank the Farmers Union organization for giving me so many incredible opportunities, all of which helped make me the person I am today. s

Youth directors wanted Emmons County and Traill County Farmers Union are seeking enthusiastic youth directors with a genuine interest in promoting youth leadership and activities for youth in the area. Responsibilities include organizing youth meeting activities, promotion, publicity and recruitment of a youth program under the direction of the NDFU youth department. Must possess good communication and organizational skills and be a self-starter.

This opportunity offers compensation, flexible scheduling with minimal part-time work. Training is provided. Application deadline: March 9. Apply online at www.ndfu.org. For inquiries, please contact the appropriate person listed below: Emmons County: Terri Lang, Outreach Coordinator, 701-336-7189 • tlang@ndfu.org Traill County: Trudy Romfo, Outreach Coordinator, 701-265-2082 • tromfo@ndfu.org Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

at North Dakota Farmers Union camp PRogram This unique camp is offered at three locations across North Dakota. Guided and supervised by trained camp counselors, campers are encouraged to find ways to develop positive and constructive attitudes about their own capabilities. Each year, campers also spend time working through a curriculum designed by National Farmers Union.

2012 senior Camp Heart Butte, Elgin

completed grades 7-12

Camp #1 • June 11-15 Grades 7-12

Camp #4 • July 16-20 Grades 7-9

Camp #2 • June 25-29 Grades 7-9

Camp #5 • July 23-27 Grades 7-12

Camp #3 • July 9-13 Grades 7-12

Camp #6 • July 30-August 3 Grades 10-12 - Sr. Retreat

5 days 4 nights only $125

2012 Junior Camp Wesley Acres, Valley City amp #1 • June 10-13 C Grand Forks, Griggs, Nelson, Steele, Traill, Walsh

completed grades 3-6 Heart Butte, Elgin Camp #1 • June 17-20 Billings/Golden Valley, Dunn, McKenzie, Stark

Camp #2 • June 13-16 Cass, Richland, Sargent

Camp #2 • June 20-23 Adams, Bowman/Slope, Grant, Hettinger, Sioux

Camp #3 • July 8-11 Dickey, LaMoure, Ransom

Camp # 3 • August 5-8 Mercer, Morton, Oliver

Camp #4 • July 11-14 Benson, Cavalier, Pembina, Ramsey, Rolette, Towner

Camp #4 • August 8-11 Burleigh, Sheridan

Camp #5 • July 22-25 Emmons, Logan, McIntosh Camp #6 • July 25-28 Barnes, Eddy, Foster, Kidder, Stutsman, Wells

4 days 3 nights only $75

Garrison, Triangle Y Camp #1 • August 5-8 Burke, Divide, Mountrail, Ward, Williams Camp #2 • August 8-11 Bottineau, McHenry, McLean, Pierce, Renville

You ha

ve to be ther

e!

www.ndfu.org/youthEducation/ • 800.366.NDFU • like us on FACEBOOK Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

15

Young

shepherds

By Anne Denholm, NDFU

A

s Jill and Jessi Lagein get off the bus from school, they both race to the barn. It’s time to do chores and to check on their flock.

Jill, 14, and Jessi, 15, participate in the starter flock program offered by the North Dakota Lamb and Wool Producers Association and North Dakota State University Extension Service. The initiative gives 10 ewes to each participant in hopes of encouraging them to be a part of the future sheep industry. The program is available to North Dakota residents between the ages of 10 and 18.

For the Lagein sisters of Rock Lake, N.D., the program has been very exciting.

Jessi said, “I’ve learned how to tube feed and trim hooves. We’re waiting for them to lamb right now and I’m hoping they’ll thrive and develop.”

Jill chimed in, “We’ve really learned a lot. We’ve learned how to check wool grade and a better way to flip them so they’re easier to move. Some of the information is a review of what our family already does but there’s some new things, too.”

Parents David and Jannell Lagein agreed. “This is a good family learning thing,” Jannell said. “David and I sat in the educational session and we picked up some new ways to do things. We encouraged the girls to apply for the program and were happy that they were both accepted.”

Last October, the family headed to Hettinger Research Extension Center to receive training and to pick up their ewes. According to Reid Redden, NDSU sheep extension specialist, the training session is an excellent time to teach kids about the basics. “The program gives them a lot of good information to get them going. The field day gives them hands-on time with the sheep. We talk about

Jill and Jessi Lagein of Rock Lake, N.D. participate in the starter flock program offered through the North Dakota Lamb and Wool Producers Association and North Dakota State University Extension Service.

16

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

vaccinating, trimming and getting the kids familiar with the basics of sheep husbandry,” he said.

Each youth is paired with a mentor from the association for added support. “We want to get youth involved in commercial agriculture and be successful,” Redden added. “We’ve had lots of kids start with the 10 ewes and expand their flock over the years. This is also a program that reaches out to families that don’t necessarily have a background in sheep. It’s a good stepping stone to get into the industry and that’s what it’s all about.”

Redden explained that the program is also self-sustaining, “Participants are expected to pay back a total of 60 percent of the ewe cost back to the association.

In the first year, the youth receive the sheep and pay nothing. Then, in years two, three and four of the program, the kids pay 20 percent back . Those funds help perpetuate the program so it’s ongoing.”

To be eligible for the program, applicants must show interest in the sheep industry, provide two letters of recommendation and support from a parent or guardian.

Membership to NDLWPA is required and participants must attend the annual convention to

Two lambs cozy up to Jessi and Jill Lagein.

The program runs for four years and teaches basic sheep husbandry skills.

give a progress report. It is a four-year commitment.

Application information is due by August 1 of each year. Application forms may be obtained through North Dakota State University.

Redden concluded, “This program is a keystone for development of the next generation of shepherds. Hopefully, we’re giving them the tools to be part of the agricultural community for a lifetime.”s

David and Jannell Lagein’s family raises sheep, cattle and run a grain operation with David’s brother, Darrel.

Pictured here is son Ben, age 14; Traci, 13; Jessi, 15; and Jill, 14. Oldest daughter, Rachael, is a sophomore at North Dakota State University.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

17

t d he n u o st r a at e Tommy the Turtle in Bottineau

Elementary students visited Farmers Union’s Living Ag Classroom.

Farmers Union Oil Company of Adams held their 77th annual meeting in Lankin on Jan 21. Those receiving awards were Faith Nord, office manager, 20 years; Russell Carlson, director, 30 years and Sandra Drevecky office assistant, 10 years.

Logan County Farmers Union board meets.

In February, the TAG group toured IAP in Casselton, learned marketing tips from extension, then enjoyed a social night in Fargo. From left to right: Clint Hetletved, Yolanda Zimbelman, Christoff and Kelli Just, Tawnya and Jason Ryum, Andrew and Katie Woytassek, Kevin Teigen, Ben Vig, Dave and Jennifer Teigen, Lisa Wagner, John Fjellanger, Brandon Meidinger, Jamie Feil, Delane Scherbenske, Erica Lind, Adam and Kelly Leiphon and Jessica Haak. Not pictured Judi & Jeff Hintz.

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Williams County Farmers Union sponsored a noon luncheon at the National Hard Spring Wheat Show held February 6-8 in Williston, N.D. Greg Wilz, North Dakota Homeland Security, spoke about disasters.

The Renville Farmers Union County Board handed out bags of popcorn at a girls basketball game in Mohall.

Pictured from left to right is Jared Johnson, Troy Hedberg, Scot Ness, Norine Johnson, Lisa Brekhus, Stacey Johnson and Ron Jensen.

SEND IN YOUR LOCAL FARMERS UNION PHOTOS TO:

adenholm@ndfu.org

Highway Patrol Captain Alan D. Billehus talked about traffic safety and the changes in traffic patterns and numbers at the Williams County Farmers Union membership meeting.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

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

Include your name, address & phone number and mail to: NDFU Classifieds PO Box 2136 • Jamestown ND 58402-2136 email: bthoms@ndfu.org Fax: 701-252-6584 • 701-952-0102 Deadline is the 15th of every month.

(Call to request a rerun of your ad.)

FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE 4120 Concord drill 3000 Series cart (300 bu.), rice tires, diesel motor on cart, paired row dutch openers, 4 rank, disc levelers on back 3 ranks, all run blockage monitor, Hiniker NH3, all new walking beams, wheel bearings & nylon wear pads, extra seed rollers for sunflowers & canola, Gustafson seed treater, $27,000 obo. 468-5458, Aaron Johnson, Carpio.

FOR SALE John Deere 200 stack wagon, tandem axle, extra set mow paddles, very clean; 12 Goodyear 20.8x42 tractor tires, sound 50+ tread; 300 bu. livestock self-feeder, all steel const. 224-1320 or 202-8815, Norbert Kinnischtzke, Bismarck.

FOR SALE 3100 Dual loader with bucket, four tine grapple fork made by Arena Welding, mounts included to fit 4440 John Deere tractor, complete, $1,850 obo. 286-7192, Marlowe Moses, Wing.

FOR SALE Complete shanks for IH Vibra shank digger; S tines with shovels for cult., also rolling shields for cult.; mineral feeders; two lick tanks, large size; cattle rubs; two steel feed bunks; porta-hut steel calf shelter, 12’x21’; 4,000 gal. good fuel tank, was an underground tank: dual loaders, 1-250 with scoop, very good, 1-300 with 7’ scoop and grab fork; nice F11 Farmhand loader with 8’ scoop; grab fork for F10 loader; 64’ Herman drag; United Tools rock picker; 40’ Sakundiak grain auger with 16 hp. Briggs elect. start motor; 80 bu. auger wagon from TSC; Wil-Rich 31’ chisel plow, have ext. to 35’; 34 1/2’ Wil-Rich field cult. with 9” sweeps, has Wil-Rich drags; also have some Nobel drag sections; 2 - F20 Farmalls, 1 restorable, 1 for parts (has overdrive tranny); McCormick Farmall, regular with cult., engine stuck; new set 11.2x36 tires and tubes, would fit either tractor; Farmall F14 for parts or restore; 2 - Ford 8Ns, engines run, 1 needs paint, other very restorable, not beat up; Ford 1953 Golden Jubilee, runs, new rear tires and rims, over and under tranny., a good restorable unit; have plow, cult., single disk and 3 pt. blade for these tractors; 2 - Farmall H tractors, 1 has belly mower and good tires, other has 9 spd. tranny. and new tires, parade ready, tractors are shedded; assortment of tires, call for sizes; very good adjustable drag sections, teeth are like new to very little wear; JD Multi-Imp. hitch w/2 wheels on them, would make good hitches for 3 or 4 section drags; sections also make good drags to pull behind 4 wheelers; IHC Surflex tiller, has had very little use, disk blades look like new; 60’ Marflex pickup sprayer. 252-6455, Myron Tarno, Jamestown.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

FOR SALE Tri-plex wire; copper wire various lengths; 3 phase 5 hp. Copland F-12 compressor; fans; drawbar for 9N Ford tractor; deck plating; rubber belting; 20’ JD 800 windrower; horse cultivator; hay bucker for 9N Dearborn loader. 652-3343 - Ed or 652-2642 - Gene Doeling, Carrington.

FOR SALE John Deere disk plow, 9 disks, 24” blade, ready to use. 324-2459 evenings, Clarence Hoffer, Harvey.

FOR SALE 40’, 10” Concord, like new edge-on shanks, radial tires, no tank, $8,000; JD 3 pt. quick hitch, new, $125; JD front mount, 3 pt. hitch, fits 7-8000 Series, $1,200; 72” Land Pride 3 pt., 3 blade mower, $1,200; 5’ Sund hydraulic drive, rubber apron pickup, like new, mounted on old Vermeer baler, $750; Tough-T bin unloader doors, $75. 542-3345, Daryl Klein, Balta.

FOR SALE Powder River squeeze chute with manual head gate; Blumhardt 3 pt. field sprayer, 60’, 300 gal. tank; Westfield grain auger, 7” - 51’. 947-5871, Darrell Anderson, Sheyenne.

FOR SALE 1475 New Holland haybine, 16’, 1,000 pto., small shaft, rubber on rubber, 2300 Series head, black reel, sickle and guards good, shields all present and in good shape, field ready, $8,750 obo; 63” White walk-in sleeper with a walk through door, heat and air, $200; semi fuel tank set with hanger, it is painted over aluminum, $700. 543-3843 leave message, Doug or Deb Hannestad, Hatton.

FOR SALE 60’ Blumhardt pickup mount field sprayer in excellent condition, rear boom, Honda engine with remote electric start, 2 solenoid electric boom shut off, very low acres on unit, $3,300; 42’ of Degelman mounted harrow sections, includes 25 new harrow teeth, $1,500; 37’ of Morris mounted harrow sections, $1,500; 7,000 lb. trailer axles with electric brakes and Dayton (mobile home) style 14.5” rims, these are not trailer house axles, available with rubber torque flex or leaf spring suspensions, $350 for 1 axle and 2 rims; 42’x 2’ tall aluminum top box for a grain trailer, good condition, $1,200. 701201-0095, Glenn Belisle, Willow City.

FOR SALE 6 row Sund edible bean pickup on a JD 15’ platform in excellent condition; 16 Hemlock 6”x6”x10’x14’ timbers, good for fencing; new style 8 row Speedy edible bean cutter; 13 sheets of galvanized steel 2’x10’ roofing panels; 8 row Dakon 30” row crop cultivator; Sears Craftsman air compressor for parts; 2,200 bu. circle steel grain bin to be moved; 1966 F700 2 ton truck, 16’ box; JD 220 flexhead, poly, stainless steel platform; grain tank cover for 7720 JD combine; antiques spoked wheels and misc. metal for metal sculptures; JD Model H Series 47 metal box ground drive manure spreader; cast iron truck carrier for stationary engines; Continental general purpose, 4 cyl., air cooled motor, Model 1Y6940343; Kato light pulley drive standby plant, 500 watt, 115/230 volt, 3 ph., Model 49E04; oil, grease, anti-freeze cans - Co-op, Pure, Farmers Union, Texaco, and Standard Oil. 945-2379, Jack Vadnie, Clifford.

FOR SALE Haybuster grinder, Model 1000, electric control, one owner, no custom work, $11,000; Farmall 400 wide front, good tires; MTA wide front, good tires; several M & H Farmalls, some with loaders; 3 seated buggy; 2 seated jumper sled; 2 steel 100 bu. grain tanks with running gear; 3 good sets of harnesses for horses, IHC small 4 wheel manure spreader for horse or tractor; 3 welders, 220 volts; 3 anvils, 80, 100 & 150 lbs.

733-2375, Wilfred Kunze, Dazey.

FOR SALE Freisen 1,000 bu. hopper bottom grain bin with coated interior, $2,500. 2285872, Glenn Berge, Bottineau.

FOR SALE Gehl 1870 round baler, 6’x5’, electric tie, shedded, very good shape, $4,800; Versatile Model 10 pull type swather. good canvases, working condition, $200; Morris 80-18 Seed-Rite hoe drill, good shovels, spare parts, $400; GT 8x50, pto. drive, $200; 1,500 gal. vertical poly water tank, $250; rotary mower, 3 pt., 6’, $250; Hesston bale thrower kit, $350; IH Vibra chisel plow, 22’ w/wings, $550. 256-3844 evenings, Dennis Schill, Hannah.

FOR SALE 1997 1600A mower conditioner, field ready, $6,500. 537-3092, Aaron Bryn, Berwick.

FOR SALE New Holland Series 2300, 16’ hay head with conditioner, low hours and in very good condition, below book, will fit NH pivot-tongue, NH self-propelled tractor or bi-directional; NH Model 276 square baler. 597-3730, larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FOR SALE IHC 725 windrower, new sickle, very nice condition. 547-3316 or 341-1554, Dave Neumann, Fessenden.

FOR SALE 22’ Reiten aluminum grain box and hoist, slight damage. 754-2875 or 226-6633, Gerald Rattei, Napoleon.

FOR SALE Pair of 14.9x46, like new Michelin tires on John Deere step up rims, was on 40 Series tractor, $2,500; 8’ canola roller, $495; 214 John Deere combine 7 belt pickup head, $1,900; 1415 gal. NH3 tank with good trailer and tires, one yr. old supply hose, $2,800;1948 Ford 2 dr. sedan, fair to good body, has glass in it, not running, 98% complete, needs restoration, $1,400;1948 Olds four door sedan, very good body, grill missing, $495; 88 Oliver diesel, runs, nice tin with side panels, $2,500. 438-2520, Dennis Backstrom, Maddock.

FOR SALE 1969 Chevy 2 ton gruck with hoist and roll tarp, 8’x16’, steel box, good tires, 8,000 mi. on new engine. 693-6063, Rueben Miiller, Anamoose.

FOR SALE 2008 Redball sprayer, 100’, 1,650 gal., auto boom, triple nozzle bodies, chemical inductor, shedded; John Deere 8 row corn headers, 843 and 893, shedded and field ready. 246-3576 shop, 8712273 cell, Steve Grenier, Rolette.

FOR SALE 2003 Peterbilt 379, ext. hood, C15 Cat., 475 hp., 13 speed, 72’ sleeper. 702-4664, Shawn McGregor, McGregor.

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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

FOR SALE 2005 Summers Super Coulter, 40’ w/ hyd. hitch, straight blades on front and wavy on rear with Summers harrow, $35,000; 3 Maxion and 11 Motorola VHF programmable business band radios, $150-$200 ea., all for $2,100; 825 John Deere 12 row stiff shank cult. $4,500; 12 row s-tine cult., $950; LaForge front mount 3 pt. hitch for 8000 Series JD tractors, $5,000; Beline granular applicator complete with hose and monitor, $250; JD 250 sprayer cart, $750; 12 radial soybean cups for JD 7200 or 7300 planter, $1,000; 1 set of fingers for 12 row planter, $120; 2 steel bin roof stiffeners for 30’ diameter bins, $150; 1987 Chev. 1500 pickup, 200,000 mi., $900; pickup topper for full size pickup box, $50; 12”x72’ Feterl grain auger, $2,500; 8”x48’ Mayrath auger, $750; 8 10:00R-20 truck tires on Bud rims, $400; 2 - 6”x36’ Mayrath grain augeres, $50 ea.; dockage screener for 8” grain auger, $150; 2 spreaders for 21’ diameter grain bins, $25 ea. 247-3058 or 259-2373, John Steffan, Michigan.

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

584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.

FOR SALE 114 bu. grain grinder/mixer, 450 pto., tandem wheels, 3 screens, always shedded, $990; 8’x38” Lorenz snowblower, 3 pt. mount, 540 pto. 5973107, Ken Koch, Shields.

FOR SALE 936 Versatile, 7,700 hrs., air seeder ready, 42x20.8 tires 75%, $29,900; 2001 JD 7410 high crop, 46” front tires, used for spraying,$26,900; Ditch Witch trencher (R65) with blade, backhoe, vibration plow, $4,500; 9 yd. Leuhtono scraper/pushoff $8,500; 18 yd. Leuhtono scraper cable lift, $2,500; 2005 Crary 36’ flexhead air reel for 96 Series combines, $18,000; 1953 Ford diesel tractor with 3 pt. mower, $2,500. 361-4403, Gary Christianson, Fargo.

FOR SALE Douglas canola roller: set of 9” nylon sunflower pans to fit a 30’ MacDon 974 flex head; 1987 Westank 9,500 gal. aluminum tanker, used for spraying with Honda pump and mixing cone. 6932371, Rick Frueh, Martin.

FOR SALE 4 whl. 220 spray coupe, cab, air, hyd. boom lift; 30’ M10 Morris hoe drills with swing hitch and transport; 84 Model N7 Gleaner, 2 heads, lots of work on it after harvest 2010, not used in 2011.

848-2228 or 848-6310, Terry Coons, Donnybrook.

FOR SALE 1948 B Allis Chalmers tractor, new rubber, runs good, easy on and off step plates, $1,900; 2009 Buhler 60” Farm King finishing mower, used two days, $1,800: will sell individually or together.

302-0037, Roger Westby, New Rockford.

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FOR SALE 1996 52’ x8” Sakundiak grain auger, 25 hp., Kohler engine with Wheat Heart hydraulic mover and sweep. 320-7031, Kevin Roorda, Marion.

FOR SALE John Deere plow 5 bottom 14” with 5 coulters; Melroe 903 plow, 6 bottom, 16”, heavy duty; John Deere chisel plow, sides fold up, 18’ total width. 824-2084, Esther Kuehn, Mott.

FOR SALE 13”x91’ Westfield auger with hydraulic swing away mover; Flexi-coil stealth carbide points and 4” paired row openers; ATV sprayer with electric pump, boomless nozzles, and hand wand; New McKay sweeps. 337-6865, Brooks Heer, Douglas.

FOR SALE 2 - 18.4-38 Firestone 6 ply tires on John Deere full disc newer style wheels, one tire is new, one is 50%, new tubes, $1,200 obo. 720-7764, Ken Faris, Carpio.

WANTED 1466 IH tractor in good condition. 7332422, Mike Heinze, Dazey.

WANTED 124 or older Massey Ferguson square baler for parts. 763-6163, Bud Job, Cleveland.

WANTED NH3 tanks. 764-6410, Casey Lund, Killdeer.

WANTED In-line bale mover with quarter turn, call with info. and price, willing to trade 1475 New Holland haybine, 16’. 543-3843 leave message, Doug or Deb Hannestad, Hatton.

WANTED Dual compartment pickup box service tank, 50-70 gal. each compartment, tool box not important, hand pumps okay. 2563844 evenings, Dennis Schill, Hannah.

WANTED 55 gal. service tank with or without pump.

547-3316 or 341-1554, Dave Neumann, Fessenden.

WANTED Attachment for feeder house for John Deere combine to carry set of dual wheels.

754-2875 or 226-6633, Gerald Rattei, Napoleon.

WANTED Hyd. earth moving 5 - 8 yard, load and carry scraper. 348-3284, Kelvin Gietzen, Glen Ullin.

WANTED Allis Chalmers WD45 diesel tractor, complete, not running; Ford 4000 with 4 cyl. engine, Running but not moving with bad transmission; Select-o-Speed transmission, complete and need of repair; 15”x28” rear tractor wheels; 8’ John Deere LLA press drill with grass seeder and prefer with solid press wheels; Ford 172 cu. in., 4 cyl. industrial gas engine. 2264055, Lloyd Giese, Steele.

WANTED Spra-coupe 210. 748-6706, Kent J. Slinde, Stanton.

WANTED D21 Allis Chalmers; 5010-5020 John Deere; 1206-1256 IH; Nice 1961-1966 Chev. pickup and truck. 628-2130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Here’s the beef! Certified organic beef by quarters, halves or whole, oat finished or grass finished, $1.45/lb. live weight, individual cuts also available for purchase. prairieroseorganicfarm@gmail. com, 228-3338, Beth Rose, Willow City.

FOR SALE Set of four DYNA Torque II Goodyear tires on rims, 16.9x38, at least 50% tread, $400 obo. 529-4848 leave message, Tim Delzer, Douglas.

FOR SALE 2 Brinks fire/water safes, like new, $75; child size wheel chair, $75. 430-1793, Dean Tronson, Buxton.

FOR SALE Rag Wing Special (RW2) biplane, a great little airplane for that flying enthusiast with time on his hands to dig in and complete, made of wood/fabric construction, belt reduction and warp drive ground adjustable propeller, w/NOS 640 Rotax engine, plans, builders log and builders pictures included, fits the new Sport Plane rules, photos available, $3,500.

437-2013 or calvin@mlgc.com, Calvin Anderson, Enderlin.

FOR SALE Fancy spotted small pony harness, brand new, $650, never used; small manure spreader, 50 bu., $450. 477-5516, Evelyn Bryant, St. John.

FOR SALE Sheet steel: 4 sheets, 12 ga., 6’x17’; 5 sheets, 14 ga., 5’x10’; 4 sheets, 14 ga., 4’x8’ - sell as package. 626-7635, Roland Schmidt, Voltaire.

FOR SALE 6 new connecting rods for 1937/47 Chevy 216 engine, $150, also rocker shafts and parts; good Bronco II parts, $25 and up, driver’s door, liftgate, front and rear bumpers, V6 radiator, tail lights, drive shafts, manual transfer case, resurfaced drums and rotors with shoes and pads.

284-6831, Geo. Cook, Park River.

FOR SALE Nice wood table with glass top, 46” long, 16” wide, 27” tall, nice with flowers by window, $100; 1904 pump organ, very nice, refinished with oak finish, clean and works, $200; Japanese writing desk, very good condition, maple wood. 232-1534, Neil Krumm, Fargo.

FOR SALE Oak Mission style computer desk with hutch, like new! free office chair with purchase. 320-5968, Susan Swartz, Jamestown.

FOR SALE DESA International natural gas fireplace insert, Model CGCFTN, unvented or could be used for garage heater, can put blower on unit, measurements: height 25 1/2“, width 26”, depth 8”, clearance needed 36” top, 6” sides, bottom and rear 0”, reason for selling I thought I could switch it to LP (can’t be done) $250.00 obo. 647-2830 or 830-0137, Bruce Lindgren, Kulm.

FOR SALE Hardwood walking plow handles, $36 a pair, cost covers shipping. 628-2583, Edwin Walhaug, Palermo.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

FOR SALE 14’x20’ house addition, carpet, electric heat, 4 corner windows, loaded on mover and will deliver from Cando to Willow City area + mileage to out of way areas, $1,500.

228-2124 or 228-6066, Orlan Dreyer, Bottineau.

FOR SALE Faith, Family & Friends cookbook compiled

by Ottawa Lutheran Church, rural Aneta, 226 pgs. of favorite recipes, order yours today, $15 ea. Judy Rusten, 11736 13th St NE, Aneta, ND 58212.

FOR SALE Fuel oil parlor stove; barrel wood stove; Craftsman metal band saw; Campbell Hausfeld 5 hp., 3 ph., 80 gal. air compressor; cattle stanchions. 247-3058 or 259-2373, John Steffan, Michigan.

FOR SALE Brooder house, 10’ long x16’ wide x 9 1/2’ high with 8 windows on one side. 824-2084, Esther Kuehn, Mott.

FOR SALE 1993 36’ Hitch Hiker camper with two slideouts. 722-3621 or 720-2722, Lynn Martin, Minot.

FOR SALE Coal room heater; horse collars & related items; 45 used utility poles, 35-50’ long; new tires: 1-10:00 R20 Dunlap steel radial SP777, 16 ply, new tube & flap; 8 used sidewinder LT 245/75/15, 10 ply; 4-225/60/ R16 M & S; 4 used Firestone P265/70/R16 M&S; 3 Michelin P225/60/R16 M&S. 5842025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.

FOR SALE Farmers Union pails, (2 1/2-3 gal.?); 2 - 10 lb. cans of Farmers Union grease; assorted horse related items - wagon wheels, eveners, and poles; pickup tire chains.

579-4118, Gerald Binstock, Dickinson FOR SALE Ranch style house to be moved; 16’x80’ Detroit mobile home, 2 BA., 3 BR., air & deck; 16x24 radial recap loader tires; rock fork for FH loader; windmill complete head and tower. 286-7383, Curt Hettich, Regan.

FOR SALE Antiques - horse dump rake; single gang horse disk; horse scraper; General Electric stove; parts for a horse buggy, leaf springs, axles, metal steps and runners for a sled.

693-2371, Rick Frueh, Martin.

WANTED Prairie dog hunter to come and hunt on my land, make reservations now. 597-3730, larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

WANTED Toy tractors, all IHC, 1/16th scale: M, narrow front, gas; W9, gas; 1066, light, cab, duals; 666, gas. 584-2714, Jeanette Brodehl, Elgin.

WANTED Old pop or old medicine bottles w/town name embossed on side; old highway road sign; old animal traps, guns, shell boxes, jack knives, hunting knives; old gas pumps, metal advertising signs, metal oil cans, advertising clocks or thermometers, 1 lb. coffee tin cans; ND pottery, carnival glass, neon advertising signs. 258-0420 or 2205746, Val Ganje, Bismarck.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1989 Pace Arrow motor home made by Fleetwood, 34’, 454 Chev. chasey, 35,200 mi., rear bedroom, 2 airs, Onan 5,000 watt generator, 20’ awning, like new, always shedded except when in use. 663-9061 or 214-1154, Arnie Wagy, Mandan.

FOR SALE 2004 Buick Rainier, exceptionally clean vehicle, AWD, power/heated seats, 117K, $10,000. 437-2013, calvin@mlgc.com, Cal Anderson, Enderlin.

FOR SALE 1981 Buick Century, auto on floor, bucket seats, air, factory installed V8 4.3 liter motor, mint condition; 1951 straight eight Buick. 597-3730, larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FOR SALE 1985 Western Star with 1979 4 axle al. end dump, $18,000; 1993 Corn Husker, 40’ hopper, new brakes and tarp, $12,900; 9175 Mack TS, ps., R model, $2,500; 2005 Crossroads toy hauler, 40’, 3 slides, gem., air, 12’ garage, one owner, $26,900; 1985 KW T600 S.A. puller, $12,000; 1995 Corvette, red, 67,000 mi., $12,000; 1995 Dodge 1 ton van, Class R RV with conversion, $12,000; 1977 32’ Holiday Rambler 5th whl. camper, need some plumbing, $3,500; 1982 & 1988 Ford service trucks, 1 flat bed and 1 fiberglass body, $1,000. 361-4403, Gary Christianson, Fargo.

FOR SALE 327 engine, runs, needs overhaul, $150; 1991 Honda coupe, parts or fixup, $400; 1955 1.5 ton International truck, $500; semi dolly, $1,000. 889-2001, Jeff Lemer, Drake.

FOR SALE 1974 GMC 2 ton truck, 16’ box and hoist. 332-6364 or 226-8692, Albert Schumacher, Napoleon.

FOR SALE Ford 1957 F100 w/longbox, complete, a good restoration project, $1,000. 7482709, Jerine Miller, Hazen.

FOR SALE 1976 American Clipper motorhome, 440 engine, sleeps 6, generator, full kitchen and bath, fiberglass shell. 943-2472 or 333-8419, Fred or Vicki Smith, Wing.

FEED AND SEED FOR SALE Oat straw bales, round, 700#, baled October 2011. 626-7635, Roland Schmidt, Voltaire.

FOR SALE Large round bales with a mixture of alfalfa, broom and grass. 597-3730, larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FOR SALE Cert. Stellar, ND barley seed, 98% germ., excellent straight combining barley. 2463576 shop, 871-2273 cell, Steve Grenier, Rolette.

FOR SALE Large round bales, tied with plastic, fist apart, grass mix, aver. 1,000 lbs, easy to get to. 943-2472 or 333-8419, Fred or Vicki Smith, Wing.

SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE To: Members of the Mouse River Farmers Union Camp Association counties of Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, McLean, Mountrail, Pierce, Renville, Sheridan and Ward Where: Office of Signal Realty,

1541 S Broadway, Minot When: Friday March 2, 2012; 2 p.m.

Topics: Consideration of acceptance of bid to sell the camp property; consideration of acceptance of bids to sell lawn mower, old school bell and 11 mattresses and possible dissolution of the MRFUCA

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COUNTY CALENDAR Kidder County Farmers Union

invites you to KIDDER – June 12 – Board meeting 7 p.m. • Pettibone Fire Hall NELSON – March – Sarnia Local membership meeting • 3 p.m.

Jim Ryba home

RICHLAND – March 11 – Fairmount Local membership meeting • 4 p.m. • Fairmount Fire District Hall

STARK – March 12 – Membership meeting • 7 p.m. • Frances Schmitt’s WARD – March 14– Board meeting 6 p.m.

March 22– Spaghetti lunch o celebrate “Ag Day” • Moose Lodge, Minot 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

WILLIAMS – March 12– Prairie Pioneer Local membership meeting • 6:30 p.m.

El Rancho Motel Restaurant • supper w/meeting to follow 22

Meet, Greet & Eat Friday, March 9, 2012 • 6:00 p.m.

Pettibone Community Building Introducing Al Weigel, Kidder County’s new Farmers Union Insurance Agent

Then, Stay & Play

Card Party to follow Food, Fun & Door Prizes

* Need not be a member to attend.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Message from

the President by ndfu president woody barth

Step up and get involved Albert Einstein once said, “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”

These words ring true today.

We face many challenges in North Dakota.

With the oil boom, we have seen an increase in truck traffic, cost of living, crime rates and safety issues. Flooding has created its own set of problems in Minot, Bismarck and the Red River Valley.

Our infrastructure needs across the state must be addressed. As population decreases in rural areas, we are challenged to keep our schools open, health care accessible and meet workforce demands. We want to continue to keep young people working in our state and see the agricultural community thrive.

Rural America needs strong leadership to start addressing these problems. Leadership is all about making things happen. It’s about ordinary people willing to step forward and speak up about change. It’s about thinking differently for the future.

Farmers Union is committed to strengthening our rural communities. There is a world of knowledge available for rural leaders. We need to stand together to make our state stronger and improve our quality of life. Together, we can make a difference in North Dakota.

We want to encourage and build up our workforce.

We encourage leadership development and want to see more people get involved. Think about opportunities within your local county board or at your co-op’s annual meeting. Consider running for the board of directors, school board, or civic organization.

Become a more active Farmers Union member. If you have ideas or concerns, be sure to speak up.

Please be an active member and ask others to join in as we stand up for rural America. With North Dakota Farmers Union, you are not alone. s

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Photo by NDFU member Eloise Richmond from her home in Ryder, ND

Updates from the office: FROM WASHINGTON, D.C: • President Elwood “Woody” Barth traveled to Washington, D.C. in February to meet with all three congressional representatives from North Dakota including Senator Conrad, Senator Hoeven and Representative Berg. All three have been working hard to ensure that the farm bill goes before Congress, prior to election time when budget pressures could hamper progress. Senator Conrad shared his proposal for the 2012 farm bill that focuses on revenue loss assistance. Senator Hoeven has also signed off on this concept. NDFU is proud to support this effort as well.

STAFFING CHANGES: • Kevin Ressler has been named the new sales & marketing manager for Farmers Union Insurance.

Ressler has been a district sales manager since 2008, first in District 1 and currently, in District 4. He began his insurance career as an agent in 1988.

• After nearly 43 years with Farmers Union Insurance, Connie Pitra has decided to retire. Her final day will be Friday, March 23. Her replacement is Liza Wolff, who accepted the position of Farmers Union Service Association accountant.

• Kristi Carlson will join the North Dakota Farmers Union staff on April 2 in the position of general counsel/government relations director.

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Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division

For the latest NDFU news, scan the code or go to: www.ndfu.org

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