Issuu

FARMER UNION

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SIXTH SUMMMIT

OVER 250 GATHER AT NDFU TO TALK PRECISION AG

FEBRUARY 2017

UNION FARMER MAGAZINE Volume 64 • Number 2

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

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GURU

EDITOR: Chris Aarhus 800-366-8331 ext. 118 caarhus@ndfu.org Annual subscription is $30 with membership. Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, ND POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NDFU • P.O. Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402-2136 Copies mailed this issue: 33,487 • USPS 016-211

GARDEN OF THE

AT 81, SUTTON'S RAHLF STILL PROVIDING A STRONG FARMERS MARKET

September 2016 – Volume 63 • Number 9

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President: Mark Watne • Vice President: Bob Kuylen • Secretary: Ellen Linderman Treasurer: Terry Borstad • Wes Niederman; Shane Sickler; Dennis Stromme; Jim Teigen and Ronda Throener 2

February 2017

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Fair practice rules good for farmers

orth Dakota Farmers Union and National Farmers Union have always worked hard to ensure equity in contractual arrangements for family farmers. This last December, we had a great win with the release of Farmer Fair Practices Rules, which aim to level the playing field for family livestock producers and poultry growers. It was a long time in coming. A provision for them was included in the 2008 Farm Bill that authorized USDA to improve Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) regulations. But lawmakers, until recently, repeatedly blocked the funding needed for USDA to finalize these protection rules for family farmers. The interim final rule gives producers protection against unfair or discriminatory contract practices. Two proposed rules were also released that provide oversight for pricing and payment practices. For years, livestock producers and poultry farmers have endured a heavily concentrated market with little protection against unfair, anticompetitive practices. This has led to further

concentration in the livestock industry and a number of family farmers going out of business. Monopolistic practices, through integration and full ownership of food production systems, put family farms at risk. The Farmer Fair Practices Rules do not fix all fraudulent practices in the livestock and poultry industries, but the rules are certainly an important step in the right direction. Both producers and consumers benefit when markets are competitive and practices and processes are transparent. We look forward to thoughtfully reviewing the published rules and providing feedback to ensure the final rules work for family farmers. Moving forward, the new administration and Congress need to keep these rules in place and appropriate the necessary funding to enforce them. They also should consider further enhancement to bring the protection that livestock farmers deserve. This is especially important because equitable rules are essential for keeping a diverse number of farmers producing livestock for our nation’s food security. s

First NDFU female BoD member passes

osephine “Jo” Jacobson, 85, of Crosby, passed away Jan. 14 at Sanford Medical Health Center in Bismarck. Josephine was born March 24, 1931, to Reuben and Sylvesta Benson on a farmstead in Gooseneck Township, west of Crosby, N.D. Jo attended school in Crosby. She attended college in Williston, continuing on to receive her teaching degree from Minot State College. Jo was teaching at the Liberty Rural School in Frederick Township when she married the janitor “Abner” (who lived and farmed down the road) on Dec. 31, 1950. They would start a family soon after. They spent the next 66 years, 13 days and several hours together, mostly living on the farm where they raised their five children, before moving to Crosby. Jo and Abner loved travel. Trips included multiple camping trips in the army green canvas tent when the kids were young; traveling to all 50 states and many of the Canadian provinces; several Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

visits to Norway, Sweden and Denmark to find family and research. She also traveled to England, Belgium, Netherlands, West Germany, France, Hungary, Yugoslavia and Turkey as part of a USDA delegation. Jo taught elementary school in the Alamo School District and also substitute taught at Divide County. In addition to teaching, Jo took a very keen interest in many organizations. She took leadership roles with North Dakota Farmers Union as the first female on the board of directors, lobbyist and field staff, Commission on the Status of Women, state and national president of the Rural Electric Woman’s Association, Town & Country Study Club, Liberty Homemakers, Sons of Norway, Crosby Senior Citizens and many more. Jo was an avid reader and always kept a keen ear to local, national and world events. She was not afraid to express her opinion on issues or politics. Jo’s faith was also very important to her. She was a member of Skabo Lutheran Church and was a current member of Concordia Lutheran Church in Crosby. s February 2017

NDFU ALLOWED TO INTERVENE IN CORPORATE FARMING LAWSUIT BY PAM MUSLAND, NDFU

A U.S. District Court judge granted a motion allowing North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU) to intervene in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of North Dakota’s corporate farming statute. NDFU had petitioned the court for intervenor status in October of last year. The ruling allows the state’s largest farm organization to participate in the ongoing litigation. Current state law prohibits non-family farm corporations or LLCs from owning farmland or engaging in production agriculture; the law is being challenged by North Dakota Farm Bureau and other litigants. Farmers Union led a referral last year of a law that would have allowed corporate ownership of land by dairy and swine operations. That measure was defeated by 75 percent of voters and failed to 4

February 2017

“We’re going to do everything we can to make sure the will of the people is honored and family farming remains the backbone of our agricultural economy.” – Mark Watne, NDFU President

pass in every single county. NDFU President Mark Watne issued the following statement on Chief Judge Daniel L. Hovland’s Jan. 11 ruling: “We’re extremely pleased with the judge’s ruling today. It gives us the ability to actively participate in the legal defense of a law that is incredibly important to family farm and ranch agriculture in our state … a law Farmers Union has consistently defended since we first helped enact it in 1932. “The vote last June was pretty clear. North Dakotans want family farms as their primary business structure and system of agricultural production, not corporate farming. “We’re going to do everything we can to make sure the will of the people is honored and family farming remains the backbone of our agricultural economy.” s Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

NDFU LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES • Uphold the current Corporate Farming Law • Defend the need for state agricultural research • Monitor funding for state programs that provide quality of life and education for rural areas • Advocate for landowner rights and improved reclamation practices • Protect our current property tax relief in North Dakota

SESSION TO FOCUS ON BUDGET CUTS BY KAYLA PULVERMACHER, NDFU

With commodity prices down and oil revenues still relatively stagnant, what is the North Dakota Legislature working on? Three words: Cutting. The. Budget. In its first week, the Appropriations Committees adopted a revised revenue forecast. The revenue forecast is the state’s “best guess” as to what revenue from areas like agriculture, oil, tourism and sales will be for the upcoming biennium. This forecast helps the Legislature’s budget. This new forecast reduced 2017-2019 estimated revenues by $170 million from the last estimate that was projected in December. The final revenue forecast of the session is expected in March. Following then-Governor Jack Dalrymple’s budget address Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

in December, the Legislature’s budget review swiftly rejected it. As a result, agency budgets are currently contained in two different bills – one that includes former Governor Dalrymple’s executive recommendations as outlined in December, and another introduced by the Legislature. This is not normal practice and will make following dollars difficult. Adding to the confusion are amendments that will contain Governor Doug Burgum’s budget priorities. The most significant victim to budget cuts for family farmers is agricultural research. For example, the NDSU Extension Service, which is contained in SB 2020, would undergo major changes. Extension is currently in a hiring freeze and analyzing what programs or positions could

be eliminated. Dalrymple’s proposed budget introduced a 10 percent cut in funds, which equates to about $3 million of the Service’s budget. Approximately 80 percent of its budget goes to employees. And just this week, Burgum announced his proposal of cutting the budget by 15 percent. This number will undoubtedly lead to hard decisions on programs and research into the near future. As the Legislature continues its work, North Dakota Farmers Union is on hand to represent its members’ policy. You can do your part as a member by connecting with your legislators on the importance of agricultural research to family farmers. Keep up to date on the latest news by signing up for NDFU’s legislative newsletter at ndfu.org. s February 2017

A gamechanger. All-new member benefits. NDFU is proud to bring you a new, exciting package that features more benefits and better discounts. Health, travel, dining, auto and more. Stay tuned.

MILTON ERICKSON retired farmer north of Maddock

Co-op No. 3 restored BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

Milton Erickson may not use his 1939 Coop No. 3 tractor much anymore, but he and his brother Kenny still enjoy looking at it. That’s why the two had the tractor restored six years ago, and is currently at their beck and call, ready any time they need a shot of nostalgia. “We haven’t really used it for any work or anything — it’s been in some parades,” Milt said. A far cry from its heyday, when it was used for virtually everything. Its multiuse ability made it popular, and the high speeds in which it traveled meant it could get you to and from the field with ease. “It’d go about 25-30 miles per hour, and I clocked it at 45 miles per hour,” Milt said. “If I had to milk cows, I’d unhook the plow and just drive it home. We used it for so many things.” Their father, Andrew, bought the Coop tractor from the Farmers Union Oil Company of Maddock. When they brought it home, they noticed a difference right away. “They had such a fantastic governor on them,” Milt said. “We put it on our threshing machine, and it was no comparison whatsoever (to the other tractors).” Kenny said the tractor’s power came from a Chrysler industrial engine that had little problem dealing with the everyday grind of the farm. “(The engine) was probably a little bigger than what the cars had back in the 30s,” Kenny said. The Ericksons have three Co-op tractors on their farm. This one and another restored Co-op they own were on display at the 75th anniversary of the local cooperative in Maddock, which is now CenDak. The tractor doesn’t only sit in a shed and look pretty, however. It does have hydraulics and is still occasionally used. “We go out mowing with it,” Milton said. “That’s all we’ve really used it for.” s

GIPSA RULES FAIR FOR

or almost a month now, we’ve watched what DTN Ag Policy Editor Chris Clayton calls “the visceral political fight” over three changes to livestock marketing rules proposed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, or GIPSA. “Visceral” is a fitting word to describe Big Meat’s reaction to the Dec. 14 rules announcement. Meatpackers and their contracting partners at the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), the National Chicken Council (NCC), and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) hate the proposed rules and made their view plain that day. The NPPC, however, went even further. It called the proposed rules an “apparent

ALAN GUEBERT The Farm and Food File NOTE: Guebert spoke at the 2016 NDFU convention

attack on rural America for its role in helping elect Donald Trump president.” Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack labeled that hair-onfire analysis as “absolutely absurd.” The Secretary was too kind; NPPC’s reaction was 100 percent baloney. It, like its contract-enforcing packer pals, of course knew the proposed rules originated in the pre-Trump 2008 Farm Bill. Big Meat’s political allies in Congress, however, effectively bottled up the changes after

Republicans retook the House in 2010. That ended in 2016 when Congress approved USDA’s funding without the previous years’ GIPSA handcuffs. Free to follow the law — the bipartisan 2008 Farm Bill law — USDA did its duty: it released the long-inwaiting rules Dec. 14. Big Meat went to DEFCON 1 an instant thereafter. In perfect contrast to the packer-captured meat groups, however, the nation’s two largest general farm groups, the American Farm Bureau

FARMERS VS. BIG MEAT

Federation (AFBF) and the National Farmers Union (NFU), offered vigorous endorsements for all three GIPSA proposals. AFBF’s president, Zippy Duvall, a Georgia poultry farmer, noted the rules, if finalized, will “better protect individual farmers from discriminatory treatment” in the market, provide “greater transparency,” “…hold companies accountable and give farmers a voice.” NFU’s president, Roger Johnson, agreed and added that ag’s ultimate customers, consumers, are also winners under the new rules. “Both producers and consumers benefit when the markets are competitive and the practices and process are transparent,” he offered. But that’s precisely what the Big Boys hate about the rules: all provide more sunshine to livestock and poultry markets that now are dominated by inthe-dark, contract production.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

For example, GIPSA’s interim rule would allow farmers and ranchers to “only prove they were treated unfairly by a company to win a legal remedy,” explained Chuck Abbott for the Food and Environmental Reporting Network Dec. 15. It would replace today’s standard that requires the producer to provide proof “that harm has been done to the entire market” before any individual is granted relief. That’s like a high school quarterback singlehandedly beating the Dallas Cowboys in the Super Bowl. It will never happen unless the field is leveled. Which is what all three GIPSA rules do, says Iowa’s GOP Sen. Charles Grassley. The rules “enjoy bipartisan support in Congress [and] I’m glad [USDA acted] to help level the playing field…” But that political support will be quickly tested because a Trump-led USDA can kill the

interim rule and two proposed rules by simply withdrawing them without fanfare or even a tweet. Right now, however, that choice will carry a heavy political cost. The packerbacked meat groups claim Trump is their rule-killing, free market champion so he must, and will, withdraw the GIPSA rules. AFBF, NFU, and other groups like the Organization for Competitive Markets see it differently. They point to “working” rural Americans — and, in particular, farmers and ranchers — as Trump’s core political supporters. He wouldn’t betray them for Big Meat right out of the box, would he? Politics aside, there’s a better reason to keep GIPSA’s proposed Farmer Fair Practices Rules: It’s the right thing to do for farmers, ranchers, and all Americans who believe in fair play and open, transparent markets. s

December 2016

TOP: Attendees pay attention at the sixth annual Precision Ag Action Summit Jan. 16 at the North Dakota Farmers Union Conference Center. LEFT: Justin Risovi of Winfield, right, goes over a display with David Beckman of Dakota Agronomy.

FIVE GENERATIONS OF LEARNING Manvel’s Ferry sees value in Precision Ag education

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

Logan Ferry seeks to learn more about how to best utilize seeding techniques in his fields. He’s only 22, so it’s a work in progress. But the fifth-generation Manvel farmer attended the sixth annual Precision Ag Action Summit, held Jan. 16-17 at the North Dakota Farmers Union Conference Center in Jamestown. “It could make things a lot simpler,” Ferry said. “I’m interested in variablerate application. We’re still a few years out from it, but I’m interested in seeing what I can do with it. Our situation is pretty flat, so it’s more in the drains. Put less seed in those drains where you know it’s going to be wet since you’re going to lose out anyways. So, we’d be saving that way.” Variable-rate application means spreading at different rates on the same field. Ferry attended as part of NDFU’s Grow to Lead program, which fosters leadership among young members. “We have a pretty good group here,” Ferry said. Ferry farms near Manvel, which is close to Grand Forks, with his father Tim and uncle Tom. The family has been part of the area for almost 150 years. “We’ve been a family farm since 1870,” Ferry said. “Where we homesteaded, that’s where our farm is.”

That history helped shape Ferry into who he is, as he can’t recall ever wanting to be anything but a farmer. He went to school at North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton and took on his own responsibility when he purchased sugar beet stock. “I’ve always been part of the farm, but I got more involved in college,” he said. “I got started through American Crystal Sugar and bought beet stock. I started that way, and now I’m working myself in with the family.” The Precision Ag Action Summit is another step in Ferry’s education. He said the breakouts the first day were especially great as it was easier to ask a question in a smaller group. Ferry hopes to use technology to help communicate more efficient ways to farm. “I was interested in the farm logs and ways to make the farm more systematic, so I know what’s going on, and my dad knows what’s going on,” he said. “So we can all be on the same page. Any time the next generation comes in, there’s a little bit of a gray area there. It could make it simpler for everybody.” The summit was put on by NDFU and the Red River Valley Research Corridor, with Dakota Precision Ag Center, NDSU Extension Service, GK Technology, Simplot SmartFarm and Dakota Plains Cooperative serving as co-organizers. s

ELLENDALE CO-OP GIVES TO CHARITY FARMERS UNION OIL HELPS WITH FUNDING FOR SERVICE DOGS BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

Looking to give back for Coop Month in October, Farmers Union Oil Company of Ellendale turned to a local cause. Fred Wangler, the co-op’s general manager, had heard of Service Dogs For America (SDFA), a local organization out of Jud that “enhances and empowers the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnership,” according to servicedogsforamerica.org. The promotion was in conjunction with Dickey Rural Networks, a telecommunications company headquartered in Ellendale. “We were just trying to figure out something to do for Co-op Month,” Wangler said. “I know they were looking to raise money for service dogs. 14

February 2017

I thought it would be a good program to have two local coops working together. It had been promoted a little bit, so I knew they needed some more money. I figured it would be a good project for us.” The promotion was done through the convenience store in which SDFA receives a penny for every gallon of gas sold and a nickel for every gallon increased over the previous year. It’s meant over $2,000 toward service dogs. “We’re locally owned in Ellendale, so we try to give money back to worthwhile projects in our area,” Wangler said. Cost is certainly the biggest issue, Wangler said, in attaining a companion or service dog. SDFA has four types of dogs it trains: • Mobility-assistance dogs help disabled persons retrieve dropped items, bump buttons

for automatic doors and other daily tasks. They can summon for help, tug open doors and turn lights on and off, providing the home has been properly retrofitted. • Emergency medical response dogs can be trained to comfort their partner in case of a seizure and encourage them to come out of that state. Through scent, they can also be trained to detect when blood sugar suddenly drops in diabetes patients. • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder dogs can distract from and alleviate stress related to PTSD that contributes to their well-being. • Facility dogs are most often placed in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. They’re trained to be polite and welcoming to every person they meet. To learn more, go to servicedogsforamerica.org. s Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

115TH ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION SAN DIEGO 2017

March 5-8 , 2017 Catamaran Resort Hotel San Diego, Calif.

Unique experiences and lasting impressions when you travel with North Dakota Farmers Union excursion tours! Go to www.ndfu.org for more information

Union Farmer: From the past 25 years ago

50 years ago

Russell Brink (Horace), Nancy Eberts (South Heart), Sheryl Turbiville (Rhame), Sandy Wagner (Jamestown) and Cleo Weichel (Strasburg) have volunteered to be youth directors and coordinate county activities for junior and senior youth, including classes and summer camping programs. Brink is out of Cass County, and he and wife Karen are the parents of four children: Scott, Tim, Jeff and Tammy. Eberts, from Stark County, is married to Myron and has three children: Adrienne, Marvin and Mason. Wagner is newly appointed from Stutsman County and, with her husband Mark, has four children: Andrew, Matthew, Anthony and Melinda. Whittle will serve as youth director in Emmons County, where she resides with her husband Leonard and their two children: Natosha and Dion.

North Dakota Farmers Union continues its “Stop Buying” campaign to protest inflation, high-priced equipment, the interest paid on that equipment and the low prices they receive on their goods. The campaign urges all farmers to stop purchasing new equipment and vehicles for the farm to send a national message that farmers do have economic power. The campaign is to continue until such time as there is tangible evidence that constructive action is being taken by government on the major arms of the 1967 Action Program. NDFU President Ed Smith said of the campaign: “The real guts of the ‘Stop Buying’ campaign now is in the country. It’s up to county and local leaders and members everywhere to get the pledge cards signed. Every farm in North Dakota must be contacted. Coordinated drives must be planned in every rural township. Nothing will take the place of individual contact. This is a time of testing for Farmers Union leadership, local, county, state and national.”

NDSC set to host annual conference

A full agriculture safety track is planned at the North Dakota Safety Council’s annual Safety & Health Conference. The conference is the region’s largest, most innovative safety event. With 97 hands-on and classroom courses scheduled over the four-day event, there is something for every industry – including agriculture! If you are looking for impactful safety training relevant to your job, make plans now to attend and choose from a full track of ag-related courses, including: • Combustible Dust Housekeeping: Stay Safe & Compliant • If Only: A Grain Bin Entrapment Fatality Story from Leonard, N.D. • Grain Bin Safety: Lessons Learned • ATV/UTV Safety Awareness Plus, you’ll find topics such as confined space rescue considerations, fall protection, OSHA regulation updates, supervisory development and more. 16

February 2017

Join us Feb. 20-23 at the Bismarck Event Center! For full course descriptions, pricing

details, or to register, go to ndsc. org. Questions? Call (800) 9328890. s

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Lori Carlson

BY CHELSEY JACOBSON, NDFU

ori Carlson has been a member of North Dakota Farmers Union for many years, but it hasn’t been until recently that she became active again. When Lori and Richard first married, Lori was a youth leader in Stutsman County. They were active for awhile, but with all of life’s demands and raising a family, she didn’t find herself really getting involved until three years ago when she was chosen to attend the National Farmers Union Women’s Conference in Clearwater Beach, Fla. Lori has led a very busy and active life, and when she lost her run for District 29 House, she didn’t shy away from getting involved. The very next day, she attended the Stutsman County annual meeting and was elected to the county board. “You don’t hide when you lose!” Lori said. Lori also served on the Policy and Action Committee for two years, was one of the 25

Spotlight

original co-sponsors to bring the corporate farming initiated measure to a vote of the people. In the fall of 2015, she attended the NFU Fly-in to Washington, D.C. In addition to being an incredibly active Farmers Union member, Lori holds a variety of other board and committee positions around the state. She holds positions with the Barnes County North School Board, Barnes County North Education Foundation Board, Southeast Education Cooperative, North Dakota Small Organized Schools, Freedom Resource Center, is president of Stutsman County Township Association, vice president of District 29 Democrats and is the clerk for Winfield Township. And that is just the beginning of the list. When Lori thinks about role models in her life, she didn’t hesitate to answer, “My mom. She is a strong and independent free thinker who never let roles define her. And also my dad would be the other part of the equation. I am who I am because of my

Five questions with Lori What is a fun fact about you? Not many people know this, but I actually teach Cork and Canvas painting classes all over the state. If you awoke tomorrow as an animal, what would you choose to be? Can I use an insect? I would choose an ant because they say the mandible of an ant can take on way more than its weight. They are hard workers and always work as a team. They get things done while being social at the same time! But, I don’t want any in my house! If you could meet one person, dead or alive, who would it be? Abraham Lincoln, because he served at such a time of strife. I would just love to know what he was thinking at the time and understand his thought process. If you could go back in time and change something, what would it be? I would have taken school a little more seriously. I liked to have fun but I could have excelled a little bit more. What is your dream vacation spot? England because I have never been there! My grandmother’s family is English and I would love their architecture. It would be exciting to see the centuries-old buildings.

parents.” Lori’s second-grade teacher also made a huge impression on her and how she looks at leadership roles. “Mrs. Martell just got me!” she said. “She was assertive but gentle, which is almost impossible to do. She spoke to me, and I admired that.” “You need someone who is decisive yet kind,” Lori said about leadership. “You actually have to be a person who is open to listening because too many people go in with their minds already made up.” Lori encourages women to become involved. She can’t stress enough how important it is to step up to the plate and take on new challenges. “Just jump!” Lori said, “You have nothing to lose by trying and you have so much to offer. We never give ourselves enough credit for what we have to offer.” Getting involved in WILD and attending the NFU Women’s Conference three years ago opened Lori’s eyes to how different parts of the country view farming practices in the Midwest. “It fired me up,” Lori said. “Give the hand of friendship. I’m a farmer, you’re a farmer, we need to encompass it all. We need to include everybody in these conversations.” Lori is looking forward to being with NDFU as the organization moves forward and grows. “Everybody needs to start getting involved,” she said. “By not using our voices, we are allowing people to tell us what to do and to make the rules for us.” s

Around the state

Stark County Farmers Union members traveled to Minneapolis where they attended a Vikings/Bears game.

A free bowling and pizza party was held recently at Paragon Lanes in Dickinson for Stark County Farmers Union members and their families.

ADVENTURE AWAITS AT NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

SUMMER CAMP! rades 3-6* G Grades 7-12*

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Travel with us! North Dakota Farmers Union Excursion Tours

Mackinac Island, MI Tour May 29 - June 5, 2017

• $795 double • $1030 single Tour the beautiful Machinaw island with the historic Trolley tour, lunch at The Grand Hotel and carriage tour. Includes boat cruise of Soo Harbor, free time at Duluth Harbor and much more!

Meet the 2017 NYAC

The National Youth Advisory Council (NYAC) is a group of outstanding young leaders, elected by their peers during All-States Leadership Camp in Colorado. These youths will represent Farmers Union by attending the fly-in to

Washington, D.C., the National Farmers Union convention and All-States Camp. This year, three youths from North Dakota were chosen as part of NYAC: Lorenzo Strand, Nome; Summer Steinwand, Kulm; and Samantha Zwirner, Berlin.

Lorenzo Strand Future Plans

My plan is to graduate from the University of Kansas, then return to the family farm to take over operations.

Why did you run for NYAC?

I had the honor of serving on SYAC and with that experience I believed that NYAC would further round out my skills of being a leader.

Favorite NYAC memory

My favorite memory is going out with just the NYAC to eat and shop for the most random things!

Favorite Farmers Union memory

Winning SYAC from my cousin will always be the greatest memory I have of Farmers Union.

Summer Steinwand Future Plans

I plan on attending college next year, I’m not sure where though. Maybe I’ll be in Minnesota, maybe Oregon, maybe Colorado....I’m really not sure!

Why did you run for NYAC?

I ran for NYAC because of the people that I met at All-States. There were so many amazing people at the camp, and I wanted to be a part of representing these amazing people and creating another great camp next year for even more awesome people to come to!

Favorite NYAC memory

My favorite part of NYAC is traveling the country with five of my best friends.

Favorite Farmers Union memory

My all-time best Farmers Union memory SO FAR is every single part of All-States 2016.

2017 NYAC members, left to right: Summer Steinwand, Samantha Zwirner, Killian Harnish, Lorenzo Strand and Miriam Valley.

Samantha Zwirner Tell us about your family

I was born in the southern state of Georgia where I spent my first six years. My parents then decided to move closer to family to the small town of Berlin. I live with my parents, twin sister Hailey, brother Alan, our dog and oodles of cats.

What do you like most about camp?

The memories I make with the second family I love and learning more about what makes Farmers Union, Farmers Union.

How can people get more involved with Farmers Union? There’s something special about the way that once you are a part of it, you don’t want to let go. By attending the camps and day classes, you learn a lot! s

Serve up some love

alentine’s Day is a great opportunity to show those you love that they’re special. And at Farmers Restaurant Group, we’ll be serving up some love (and some special creations) to our amazing guests this Valentine’s Day to show how much we appreciate them. In fact, we have a farm favorite: a four-layer, six-inch round mini red velvet cake, specially designed and decorated with fondant hearts by our pastry chefs. Created exclusively for Valentine’s Day, it’s a festive version of our signature red velvet cake, made with cocoa and fresh cream cheese frosting. It’s been a big hit with guests over the years. Here are some other delicious ideas to celebrate your loved ones: • Serve warm beignets with fresh raspberry, chocolate, or caramel dipping sauces • A deliciously rich chocolate cake complete with fresh whipped cream and red berries • We love a great chocolate mousse bowl topped with fresh whipped cream, enough to share • Strawberry or raspberry macaroons make for a festive indulgence • Crumble red velvet cake over warm, freshly-popped popcorn for a sweet & savory treat

Founding Farmers mini red velvet cake, exclusively for Valentine’s Day.

• Get into the spirit: blend creative “cocktails” to be enjoyed by all, such as fresh, flavorful fruit punch with strawberry garnish or a raspberry-sparkling water blend featuring fresh raspberries and a mint leaf sprig for an unexpected pop of color s

TRUMP PICKS PERDUE FOR AG COMMISH President Donald Trump selected former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue to be the U.S. Agriculture Secretary in his administration. National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson released the following statement in response to the announcement: “Given the challenging state of the farm economy, more than ever, family farmers and ranchers Sonny need a champion in Washington. Perdue I am hopeful we will find that champion in Sonny Perdue. “USDA is more than agriculture’s agency; it is America’s agency. We look forward to working with Mr. Perdue and the new administration to create and defend a strong farm safety net and provide meaningful farm policy solutions for producers, particularly dairy farmers and cotton growers, in the next farm bill. We will also ask that USDA take a proactive approach to building opportunities for rural America, increase support for conservation as a way to manage risk on the farm, and expand market opportunities for all types of agriculture production.” NFU is also particularly interested in cabinet positions related to trade, labor, energy and the environment. The President proposed Robert Lighthizer as the chief negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). An attorney by trade, Lighthizer has primarily represented the American steel industry during his four-decade career. He also served as deputy trade representative during Ronald Reagan’s presidency. If confirmed, Lighthizer will negotiate international trade deals and represent the United States in global trade policy organizations. NFU is pleased that Lighthizer plans to withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), and looks forward to working with the trade nominee on refocusing our nation’s trade negotiation objectives to promote fair trade policies that advance the interests of American family farmers and ranchers. Andrew Puzder has been named Secretary of Labor, a position integral to regulating the national job market, abating unemployment rates, improving working conditions, and ensuring employment-related benefits. Puzder is currently the chief executive of CKE Restaurants, whose subsidiaries number Hardees and Carl’s Jr. Like Lighthizer, Puzder has a legal background, and Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

served as a lawyer before his time in the restaurant industry. NFU hopes that, pending confirmation, Puzder will implement labor policies that ensure the physical safety and economic well-being of farmers and farmworkers, as well as federal immigration reform that guarantees an adequate labor force for a growing economy. Former governor of Texas, Rick Perry, has been tapped as the incoming Secretary of Energy. Before his tenure as governor, Perry held several political positions in Texas, including representative in the state legislature, lieutenant governor, and agriculture commissioner. For nearly a year, Perry has also served on the board of directors of Energy Transfer Partners. Given Perry’s background in agriculture, NFU is hopeful he will prioritize the needs of farmers and rural communities. In particular, NFU anticipates his support for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), as it not only supports the economic interests of farmers, but it also establishes energy sovereignty and mitigates climate change. Trump also nominated Scott Pruitt as administrator of the EPA. In his legal career, Pruitt specialized in constitutional law, contracts, insurance law, labor law, and litigation and appeals. He has served in the Oklahoma Senate, and is currently the attorney general of Oklahoma. As attorney general, Pruitt has opposed several EPA measures, including the Clean Power Plan and Waters of the United States rule. NFU hopes that Pruitt will uphold the RFS as part of his environmental policy plan, and looks forward to working with the nominee on additional policies that will include the agricultural community in establishing climate resilience.

NFU asks Congress for dairy support

As a weak farm economy continues to harm all U.S. farmers, the dairy sector is in particular peril. Multi-year price lows have made it challenging for dairy producers to break even, a situation that could force many family farmers out of business. NFU has consistently asked Congress to implement greater supports for dairy producers, and expressed disappointment when direct assistance was not included in the stopgap funding. Although NFU ultimately would like to see Congress improve the long-term safety net in the farm bill, in the interim, short term relief will be necessary to protect a sector reeling from low prices and business closures. s February 2017

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Classified ad space is free and available to NDFU members. Ads will run one time only. NO ADS WILL BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. Include your name, address and phone Place your ad online:

http://www.ndfu.org/news/union-farmer-classified/

Mail: NDFU Classifieds, PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402-2136 E-mail: bthoms@ndfu.org Fax: 701-252-6584 • 701-952-0102 The next deadline isFebruary 15

FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE 1210 David Brown, 3 pt. with 2 remotes, 65 hp., $5,000. 333-9251, Ben Gerving, New Salem. FOR SALE 2 – JD 980 field cultivators, 44’, one w/wet boom, 9” shovels on 6” spacing, brand new 4 Michelin 650/65R42 radial tires: New Holland 9030 w/3 pt. pto. on both ends; 1970 IHC 1600 truck w/300 bushel Rugby box, hoist and tarp; JD 637 disk in good shape, 37’ 10 “, choice of 3 Pickett one steps, 8 row, 30”; Unerverth triples for JD tractor or combine 380 by 54; 14’ Elmers raking pickup, header w/3 9’ Sund pickups for edible beans. 341-2937, Bill Onstad, Harvey. FOR SALE W-4 IHC, 12 volt system, belt pully and pto., excellent rear tires, runs good. 789-0977 or 524-1395, Peder Mikkelson, Aneta. FOR SALE 1 new tire LT 245-75R-17, Load Range E; 15-30 McCormick tractor on steel; 2 cream separators; used 7” baler belting; Leon #3100 HD 10’ 3 pt. blade; Freeman hyd. manure scoop for H’s & M’s; 1 late model Super M. larryn@westriv.com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields. FOR SALE 2007 Exiss 3 horse slant, like new, wit rear tack and front dressing room, all carpeted, drop down doors with bars on windows, always shedded, less than 1,000 mi. on original rubber on this unit, $15,000. 435-2989 or 320-3116, Wade Rudolph, Wimbledon. FOR SALE Semi water trailers for spraying - tanks, comes, pumps, hose reels, etc; semi storage trailers and 20’ & 40’ storage containers. 474-5780, Richard Rydell, Fairmount. FOR SALE 1985 Freightliner, 300 Big Cam Cummins, 10 spd. trans., triple axle, all steel 22’ grain box w/3 rear doors, brand new roll tarp. 460-7639 or 422-3646, Jason Jochim, Selfridge. FOR SALE Michels air seeder fill augers that mount under semi-hopper, hyd. drive, remote control on and off, $3,500. 256-0797, Dave Lundeby, Osnabrock. FOR SALE 2009 JD 9430 tractor; 2009 JD 8130 tractor; 2009 1830 JD hoe drill, 50’; 2009 JD 1910, 270 bu. cart; 2012 Class 8 Lexion 750TT combine; Lexion Maxflo 1050 35’ draper header; 2009 Summers Ultimate NT sprayer; Rite-way harrow; 2007 Volvo auto-10 spd. truck; 1,500 gal. water tanks. 462-8365, Vivian Carlson, Washburn.

FOR SALE 2010 Case IH combine, 8120 deluxe cab, dual wheels; 2008 NH 94C 36’ draper header, auto header height; 2008 NH 76C 16; pickup header; 1992 47’ chisel cultivator w/NH3 applicator.; 4-1450 anhydrous tanks in good condition; 1963 Dodge truck, tandem; 1975 IH tandem truck, Rietin Box; Borgault air seeder 47’; Borgault harrow, 72’; 1996 8820 Case IH swather, side cutters, 25’ platform, GPS. 784-5987 or 8331472, David Brossart, Lansford. FOR SALE IHC 50T baler; Schulte RS hyd. rock picker; h.d. Russell Reliance 10’ grader; 10’ h.d. V packer; 5 bottom packer w/hitch; 8 steel grain bins w/steel floor; 1,00012,400 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; Feterl 6“x36’ electric auger. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley. FOR SALE New Holland BR7090 specialty crop clean baler, net and twine, moisture monitor, endless belts, big tires, auto oiler, bale command, wide pickup, 1,175 bale count, stored indoors, not farming anymore, $42,000 new, will sacrifice for $29,900. 597-3106 or 955-2736, lv. message, Lynette Schmeichel, Bismarck.

FOR SALE Loftsness 10’ grain bagger; 10’ grain bag unloader; 2000 Chevy 1 ton dually, flatbed, 6.5 diesel, auto. trans., good tires & paint, 118,000 mi., $8,900. 542-3345, Daryl Klein, Balta. FOR SALE 2001 New Holland 688 auto-wrap, 540 pto, field ready, $4,300; 2003 New Holland BR780 auto-wrap, 540 pto, field ready, $4,900. 2006 New Holland BR780A auto-wrap, 1,000 pto, xtrasweep picker, $5,200. Pictures on bisman website. 3208543, Kevin Raugutt, Edgeley. FOR SALE Case IH 550 Quad track, luxury cab, tow cable, 30” tracks, 6 remotes, cab suspension, Pro 700 monitor, 262 receiver, Nav II, 730 hrs., always shedded.; John Deere 3200 auto reset 5 bottom plow. Always shedded. 628-2805 or 629-9003, Doug Halden, Stanley. FOR SALE Case IH 8820 windrower, 22’ shiftable head w/finger reel, 16’ auger hay head, AC, heat, diesel, good machine. 862-3450, Bob Andes, Parshall. WANTED 806, 1206, 1256, 856, 1466 IH tractors; JD 5010, 5020, 6030, MM 1350, 1355 and others, running or not. 628-2130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley. WANTED Snow scoop for F-10 Farmhand. 475-2858, Peter Glatt, Driscoll. WANTED Old horse drawn mower, prefer International. 734-2251 or 220-9263, Robert Anderson, Wilton.

FEED AND SEED FOR SALE Pea straw bales, makes great feed for cattle, $20 per bale. 230-4100, BJ Rohr, Crary.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1981 Buick Century, auto on floor, bucket seats, air, factory installed V8 4.3L motor, mint condition; 1951 Straight Eight Buick. larryn@westriv.com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields. FOR SALE 1993 Chevrolet diesel, 4x4 pickup, 6.2L engine, extended cab, good farm truck, 233,000 mi., $3,500. 333-9251, Ben Gerving, New Salem. FOR SALE 1998 Mercury Sable, excellent condition, good tires, new fuel pump; 1973 C30 camper special, good automatic trans., 454 engine in good running condition; 1962 3/4 ton, 6 cyl. pickup. 840-5228, Larry Miller, Valley City. FOR SALE, 1995 Ford truck, 1/2 ton, auto., reg. cab, long box, 4x4, almost new rubber, good paint, glass good, receiver hitch, 3 balls - 1 7/8, 2, 2 1/2, with new coal box mounted in box, full topper, good shape, good farm & fishing truck 102,752 mi., 351 motor, must see. 934-4822, Clemens Fleck, Bismarck. FOR SALE 1996 Plymouth Voyager handicap accessible van, tires - 80%, complete set of studded tires - 80%, 147,000 mostly highway miles, dependable vehicle, $3,000. 580-0306, Russ Timmreck, Alexander. FOR SALE 1980 Chevy Malibu, 2 dr., 3.8 V6, body average, low miles on engine, $1,000. 2734125 or 269-9213, Ron Moser, Woodworth. FOR SALE 1989 Ford F150 pickup, 2 WD, Radco topper, 54,000 mi., 302 ci., auto, AC, PS, 2 gas tanks, excell. tires and cond., currently licensed, always garaged, 1 owner, $5,000 firm. 952-8973 - Glen Nagel or 368-1499 Boyce, Jamestown.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Collars & related items; 45 used utility poles, 35’-50’ long; used tires - 6 Bridgestone, 245-75-R16; 4 - 225-60-R16 M&S; 4 used Firestone P265-70-R16 M&S; 3 Michelin P225-60-R16 M&S; 4 Hercules Ultra 21570-R15. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley. FOR SALE Wreaths of all sizes; 2 small table top Christmas trees, 17”, 1 electric; 2 quilted Christmas stockings, Lg.-17”, $10; 1 - 4’ shoplight, trimmed in tan wood with deflector, $20; Wood craft hoops, $1-small, $2-lg.; Shopcraft bench grinder, 2 amp., $20; Max cooler, 150 qt. & lid “Lodge”, $25; laser light level w/tri-pod, newer, $40; Husqvarna helmet w/earmuffs & face guard, like new, $25; 9’x13’ screen gazebo in good cond., $25. 520-1330, Sharol Rogalla, Minto. FOR SALE H.D. cyls., 2” - 4”, some with hoses; 1 1/2” wrench, open & box ends, 22” long; new hand torch w/hose & valve for 20 & 100 propane tanks; 2 JD box end wrenches for hubs and front for 2 cyl. tractors; IH treshmachine wrench, cyl. tooth & straightner, old; fishing equipment. 9344822, Clemens Fleck, Bismarck.

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FOR SALE Amish 4 person buggy, new pull shaves, 2 black velveteen adjust. & folding seats, setup for hyd. brakes, has safety lighting & switches, has windows-2 front movable, 3 fixed, all naugahyde sides, top & back drop (that you can open) are in very good cond, please CALL for pics.; Air boat pontoon, 26’ custom built, two engine - 90 hp. VW w/ hand crafted wooden fan, wind and water + 4 stroke 25 hp. Mercury, new plywood & carpet, live well, canopy, etc., heavy duty trailer, $15,800, would consider trade for small payloader, D4 loader crawler in working condition. 628-6949 or 314-7996949, Rose or Mike Ryan, Stanley. FOR SALE Vintage clothes fitting mannequin with cast iron stand; outdoor, western & movie star framed pictures; Virgil Hill autographed framed picture; 45 records; Stihl battery powered lawn mower; antique lithograph prints of cigar box covers. 500-9522, Monte Reiner, Minot. FOR SALE Arctic Cat Prowler snowmobile, very low mileage and very good shape, fast machine, first $500 take it. larryn@westriv. com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FOR SALE 19’ Knapheide all steel truck box, wo/tarp, average condition and paint, $900 obo. 3854765 or 835-2055, Ron St. Croix, Kenmare.

Producers reminded to utilize LIP

Bad winter weather in North Dakota can lead to loss of livestock, and producers are reminded to check to see if they’re eligible for the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). The program is open to ranchers who suffer livestock losses due to natural disasters, such as the blizzards that have impacted North Dakota this winter. It provides benefits to producers who experience losses in excess of normal mortality caused by eligible loss conditions.Payments are equal to 75 percent of the market value. The LIP is part of the 2014 Farm Bill. Producers should contact their local county FSA office to schedule an appointment to submit a notice of loss and application of payment. To find your closest FSA office or to learn more about the program, visit offices.usda.gov.

FOR SALE 2009 Keystone Raptor toy hauler, 3,712 TS, 3 slide-outs, sleeps 8, 12’ toy hauler bay, memory foam queen in master bedroom, dual reclining leather sofa, 1 owner, no smoking & no pets, for pictures - clemensduo@hotmail.com. 659-0705, Jessica Clemens, Jamestown.

FOR SALE 2005 Camp Master toy hauler, 20’ pullbehind, 8’x10’ living quarters, 8’x10’ cargo area, full drop down door, levels, plate rock guard added, new awning added, toy haulers do not come with this, (bath has toilet, shower, sink) microwave, rooftop AC new hot water heater, gas & electric fridge, TV receiver, etc., would consider trade for a 2002-2006 Honda Goldwing trike in good condition; Studebaker hood for 1949-53 truck, good metal with original hood ornament & name plate, $450; 1980 Chevrolet Malibu hood, $150. 628-6949, Rose or Mike Ryan, Stanley. FOR SALE Old cast iron cookware, 169 pieces: Erie, Griswold, Wagner, Andresen, Keen Kutter and other brands, $1,000 for the collection, firm. 572-5903, Howard Isakson, Williston. FOR SALE 3 bedroom, 1 bath, ranch style house to be moved, 1,500 sq. ft., built in 1966, new vinyl siding, new gray metal roof, very nice. 799-4839, Curt Bunn, Sheldon.

WANTED Prairie dog hunters to hunt on my land. Make reservations now. larryn@westriv. com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields. WANTED Complete 14’ high x 20’ wide overhead door. 653-5230, Wesley Miller, Carrington. WANTED German made harmonicas; UND pottery; Fighting Sioux items; vintage lamps with Lily or Tulip glass shades. 500-9522, Monte Reiner, Minot. WANTED Old advertising signs, gas pumps, metal oil cans, crocks, jugs, clocks or thermometers with advertising, road signs, traps, shell boxes, guns, tokens, marbles, anvils, pop or medicine bottles, tin coffee cans, ND pottery, carnival glass. 220-5746 or 2580420, Val Ganje, Bismarck.

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE Registered Texas Longhorn bulls, most colors and ages, top quality bred for beef and ND weather, sons & grandsons of popular herd bulls, weighing well over a ton. 721-7746 or 362-7746, Cliff Sanders VT Longhorns, Glenburn.

Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division

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