Union Farmer - October 2016

FARMER UNION

www.ndfu.org

SUMMIT SPECIAL STUDRUD PROVIDING BREWING COMPANY WITH CLASSIC BARLEY

OCTOBER 2016

SIGN UP FOR AUTOMATIC DUES PAY

O

ctober starts a new membership year for NDFU. For members whose dues are not paid through an affiliated cooperative or FUMIC billing, we are now offering automatic dues pay.

On or near Oct. 10 of each year, we will automatically

collect your dues via direct withdrawal. Login to the member portal and select membership dues and then select “Direct Withdrawal” for a yearly recurring dues payment.

If you would like to pay dues for one year only with a credit card select “Credit Card.”.

Beginning this year, membership cards will not automatically be mailed to you.

Membership cards can be printed from the membership portal or downloaded to your smart phone. A paper copy is available by contacting our office at 1-800-366-8331 ext. 127. p

For more information, email us at info@fumic.com or www.fumic.com

UNION FARMER MAGAZINE Volume 63 • Number 10

F

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

UNION

www.ndfu.org

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: 34,361 • USPS 016-211

GARDEN OF THE

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

September 2016 – Volume 63 • Number 9

FIND US ON THE WEB:

www.ndfu.org

http://issuu.com/ndfu

Read the Union Farmer online

CONNECT WITH US: North Dakota Farmers Union North Dakota Farmers Union Youth Program ND Farmers Union Tours

@NDFarmersUnion

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

October 2016

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

IT’S CO-OP MONTH!

CO-OP PROCLAMATION SET FOR OCT. 3

G

overnor Jack Dalrymple will proclaim October as “Co-op Month” on Monday, Oct. 3, at an official proclamation signing event in Bismarck. The proclamation recognizes the valuable contributions that cooperatives bring to North Dakota.

Cooperatives are part of a tradition in America.

Cooperatives are businesses organized by people to provide needed goods and services.

When people join together to form a cooperative, the business is founded on their values and

needs: democratic principles; community commitment and interaction; cooperative buying power and economic advantage; people helping people. While investor-owned businesses have a structure that pushes them to deliver profits to shareholders, cooperatives have a structure that pushes them to meet their customers’ needs. Cooperatives put people ahead of profits.

Cooperative earnings are returned to members through improved services, lower prices or refunds. Cooperatives come in all sizes, from small buying clubs

to businesses included in the Fortune 500. Many cooperatives are household names, for example Land O’Lakes, Ocean Spray, Sunkist, ACE Hardware and the Associated Press.

In the United States, there are 29,000 cooperatives with more than 100 million members.

Cooperatives operate in every industry including agriculture, energy, financial services, food retailing and distribution, health care, child care, insurance, housing, purchasing and shared services, telecommunications and others. p

REPEATING HISTORY 40 YEARS LATER

L

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

ess than a decade ago, director Bill Krueger saw a familiar last name when he looked at an application for the manager position of the Menomonie (Wis.) Farmers Union Cooperative.

A native of Jud, Krueger had relocated and made his home Bill in Wisconsin.

Krueger And when he saw the name “Paul Diemert” on the application, it stirred up memories.

“I said, ‘Do you know Joe Diemert?’” Krueger said. “He said, ‘Yeah, that’s my dad.’”

The board made the hire, and

Paul Diemert came aboard. And with that, a near replication of the path their fathers took years ago.

Bill’s father, Leonard, was director and then chairman of the Farmers Union co-op in Edgeley, mostly through the 1950s and 60s. During the latter half of that time, Joe managed the co-op.

“Forty years later and 400 miles away, history repeated itself,” Bill said. “It’s kind of ironic.”

October is co-op month, and Krueger stays involved. He retired from his post as director of what is now Cedar Country Co-op, but is still Dunn County Farmers Union (Wis.) president.

He said co-ops are “more important today than ever.”

“Co-ops really benefit the

farmer and the consumer,” said Krueger, who still comes back to North Dakota each year to work his farm near Jud. “They’re more important today than ever. It gives us a tool – a source to go out into the market and have the clout to purchase and manufacture the products we use on the farm.”

Krueger said education about cooperatives is vital to their success.

“One of the things that really helps bring (co-ops) back into focus is Farmers Union youth camps,” Krueger said. “Young people learning the value of co-ops and why they exist.

(NDFU) has done a wonderful job of maintaining and gaining membership in all age levels.” s

Forty-four North Dakotans participated in the National Farmers Union’s legislative fly-in in September.

NDFU PARTICIPATES IN D.C. FLY-IN

BY PAM MUSLAND, NDFU

Forty-four North Dakotans participated in the National Farmers Union’s legislative fly-in in September to raise awareness of the worsening farm economy, which has been on a downward spiral since 2014. Average net farm income in North Dakota has dropped from $76,404 in 2014 to $28,600 in 2015, a 63 percent decline alone.

“The safety net in the 2014 Farm Bill hasn’t done its job,” said NDFU President Mark Watne.

“We need an effective safety net that ensures food security for our nation. We’re calling for corrective action and evaluation of price support levels, so that farm programs serve their purpose of stabilizing farm income during low commodity cycles.”

Watne said low farm prices are predicted to continue for the next several years, which will present challenges to the survival of family farms and rural communities.

Punishing low commodity prices and rising input costs have added to farm debt, he noted, which has deteriorated credit conditions for many producers who are unable to make loan repayments. Currency fluctuations, trade deals, and corporate consolidation are other variables impacting farm income.

“Six companies now control a majority of the global seed and chemical markets,” Watne 4

October 2016

Hawaii Farmers Union United President Vincent Mina addresses NDFU summer staff during the fly-in in Washington, D.C.

District 6 Director and State Secretary Ellen Linderman, right, was part of the fly-in.

said. “As producers, we bear the economic brunt of these consolidations that bring about less competition in the marketplace, less innovation, and increased costs for farmers and ultimately, consumers.”

Farmers Union members are also urging members of Congress to oppose any legislative changes

to the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires renewable fuel to be blended into the nation’s fuel supply, and to oppose the TransPacific Partnership. Watne said multilateral trade agreements have generally failed to increase export opportunities. The U.S. trade deficit last year alone was $531 billion. p Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

What will it take for action?

I

s our government listening?

NDFU just finished an NFU fly-in where we had 44 participants. Our members carried the message of low commodity prices, the growing cash flow crisis for farmers, the need to reestablish the Renewable Fuel Standard, the concern with mergers in the agriculture supply industry, and trade deals that do not deliver.

We found great reception and concern, but I’m not sure we moved people to action. It seems we all understand the challenge but most are unwilling to step up and support essential food production to guarantee food security for our nation.

When it comes to food, U.S. consumers and citizens reap the benefits of America’s highly successful family farm model of food production. Millions of farms produce low cost, high quality food that is second to none, allowing Americans to spend less than 10 percent of their disposable income on food. This system provides our country with national security, renewable wealth, a trade balance, and vibrant rural communities.

Without question, the ability of a country to feed itself is a measure of its strength and success, and we see that today.

Venezuela, once a country with a robust agricultural sector, is now forcing citizens to work in neglected fields as a way to fight their current food crisis.

Decades ago, the oil-rich country put all its revenue-generating eggs in one basket – oil – and started importing food. The lack of investment in agriculture has been devastating. With the worldwide plunge in oil prices, Venezuela can no longer pay for imported food and other Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

FROM LEFT: Farmers Union Insurance General Manager Mark Anderson, North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne, FUI District 1 Manager Mike Rene and FUI Sales and Marketing Manager Kevin Ressler were four of 44 representatives from North Dakota on the National Farmers Union fly-in in September in Washington, D.C.

necessities for its citizens.

In Japan, two-thirds of farmers are 65 years old or older. The country is struggling to keep farms running as young people shun the work and foreign workers pick up the slack, many illegal, causing other problems.

The investment a country makes in agriculture is perhaps its greatest responsibility to citizens. Just as in other countries, America needs to reinvest in agriculture and our family farm system, which currently is the envy of the world. The intrinsic value of families, passing land and knowledge of that land from generation to generation, is immeasurable when it comes to our agricultural engine.

As the world population doubles, the United States and a few other countries will no doubt take on the lion’s share of feeding the world. We need to implement new tools and ways of thinking to ensure family farm success and longevity. We need to make farming and ranching attractive to more young people

and financially rewarding for all producers, so they can carry on the tasks and responsibilities of a sustainable food production system.

North Dakota Farmers Union is exploring a new national priority food security concept that should be fully funded from current taxation policies, exempt from the farm bill budgetary process or the reduction of current farm program title dollars. Producers would earn a payment that is tied to the production of high quality food and quantity, land conservation, environmental practices, and education of beginning farmers.

The stipend would guarantee consumers of food abundance, while strengthening America’s commitment to our family farm model of food production.

It’s time to find solutions to inherent problems in agriculture that continually threaten the sustainability of our commodity production system. It will take all of us working together to create this new paradigm. p October 2016

5

A Women In Leadership Development (WILD) regional event was held Aug. 27 at the Comfort Inn. Rebecca Undem was the keynote speaker in front of a group of 18. She’s the author of How Mommy Got Her Groove Back, a book about “embracing both the quaintness and the quirks of living and working in rural America.”

The annual state conference is likely moving from January to September of 2017, though a date has not yet been finalized.

Keep an eye out for the details in upcoming issues of the Union Farmer.

TOP: Faye Hagen, left, and her daughter Elizabeth Huso show the crafts they made at a WILD regional event Aug. 27 at the Comfort Inn in Bismarck.

LEFT: Speaker Rebecca Undem talks to a group of 18.

COUNTY HOLDS FIRST EPIC IN 5 YEARS

W

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

hen initial sign-up resulted in a small number of participants for an EPIC event in Ramsey County, first-year coach Andrea Miller wasn’t fazed.

“I kind of anticipated a lower attendance the first year and that we’d need word of mouth to get around about it,” Miller said.

Not long after, Miller’s number ballooned into a good starting point for re-engaging youth in Ramsey County. The first day camp was Aug. 7 in Devils Lake, and Miller said she felt it was a strong debut.

“We had multiple age groups, so we wanted to make sure everyone was entertained,” Miller said.

“We did a variety of activities to appeal to younger and older kids.”

It’s been five years since Ramsey County held an EPIC event as it’s been without a teacher. Enter Miller, a former Nelson County camper while growing up in Tolna.

“I attended all of these events when I was younger,” said Miller, who taught the class with her husband Scott. “Being on the teaching end is much different. My husband and I hadn’t taught anything, and he didn’t go through Farmers Union classes. We weren’t sure what to expect.”

County president Adam Leiphon said Andrea Miller fit the mold as an EPIC coach.

Ramsey County EPIC participants work on a project in Devils Lake. It was the first EPIC event for the county in five years.

“We’ve had problems finding someone willing to take on the job that had a Farmers Union background and an understanding of what we’re looking for,” Leiphon said. “(The state office) found Andrea, and she was more than willing to take on the job. She jumped in with both feet. I can’t say enough good things about her. We’re so glad to have her.”

Miller thought the kids enjoyed themselves, especially with the separate age groups – 11-andyounger, and 12-and-older.

“The older ones really wanted to show off different songs and things they did at Farmers Union camp – interactive things,” Miller said. “The younger kids were really into projects. We did thank-you cards for the community, and we got to see how creative they were.” s

MEMBERS TAKE IN NEW STADIUM North Dakota Farmers Union members took the bus down to the Minnesota Vikings preseason game Aug. 28 against the San Diego Chargers.

It was the inaugural home event for U.S. Bank Stadium, the Vikings’ new facility. The Vikings won the game 23-10.

Go to ndfu.org for a list of upcoming tours or contact Jeff or Carma at 1-800-366-8331.

Roy Musland (left) poses with Sharon and Bill Dunaway, all of Jamestown, before the game starts.

TRAVEL WITH US!

North Dakota Farmers Union Excursion Tours

AGENT WINS AWARD Farmers Union Insurance agent Jay Fuglie won the Williston Herald’s Reader’s Choice Award for auto and home insurance.

Branson Christmas Express 2016 #1 Oct. 31 – Nov. 6 #2 Nov. 28 – Dec. 4

SAVE THE DATE

2017 PRECISION AGRICULTURE

ACTION SUMMIT JANUARY 16 & 17 th

th

NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION CONFERENCE CENTER 1415 12 th AVE SE, JAMESTOWN, ND

Join us for the 6th annual Precision Agriculture Action Summit to learn about the current trends of precision agriculture, technological applications and demonstrations for successful implementation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER

Go to theresearchcorridor.com/precisionagsummit2017 or contact Ryan Aasheim at 701-499-6994 or ryan@theresearchcorridor.com.

Register before Dec. 1, 2016 to receive the early bird rate. #PrecisionAg2017

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

SAVE THE DATE

2017 PRECISION AGRICULTURE

NFU Convention, San Diego

Feb. 26 – Mar. 11, 2017 Highlights: Sea World, San Diego Zoo San Diego City Tour to include: Winery, Old Historic San Diego, Urban Farms, Harbor Cruise plus much more Watch for details to follow Go to www.ndfu.org for details or call 800-366-8331 ext. 108, Carma or ext 111, Jeff October 2016

7

AROUND THE STATE The LaMoure County Farmers Union held a Young Producer Trap Shoot event on Aug. 31. Ron Van Bruggen gave a presentation about cooperatives, and Chelsey Jacobson gave a presentation on NDFU membership benefits.

Other things that were highlighted were upcoming projects and events.

McInto sh County Farmers Union h eld a burge r feed an d potluck on Sep t.

11 at La ke Hoskin s Picnic Shelter.

, members n board ers Unio Olson and Bill rm a F County Arlene Burleigh arvin Dockter, ustomer ilton’s c ,M from left erved lunch at W s Kershaw n day. tio apprecia

lph ent Ra Presid eiser for e ic V Union Gloria Olh art of rmers to h as p nty Fa 500 check u o Beula C r $ Merce resents a rk Market in m. p a r ra Biebe Heritage P ards prog w w the ne munity Ste m the Co

Burleig h Coun ty took west to their m to embers Researc ur the Fluffy F on a ie h Exten sion Ce lds Winery an bus trip out d nter. Ab ove is th the Dickinson e winery tour.

ENJOY YOUR MEMBERSHIP PERKS!

Thank you for being a member of North Dakota Farm

Please take advantage of the member benefits that are available be a part of a progressive organization that stands up for agricu

NEW! Land O’Lakes vehicle discount!

Active farmers and ranchers as well as retired landowners can get a discount of up to $11,500 on a new pickup truck if they belong to a Land O’Lakes cooperative or affiliated partner!

Check to see if your co-op is one of many that belong to Land O’Lakes by calling Greg at 605-695-8844 or Linda at 866-456-1265.

NEW! Wilhelm discount on GM parts!

Don Wilhelm Inc., in Jamestown is giving a 10-percent discount on all GM parts! Discount does not include oil changes or tires.

Membership Card

John Smith 111111 2016 Associate Pay (Non-Voting)

For more benefits, go to www.ndfu.org/benefits

A tour of the underground facility showed the public how grain uses the conveyors to reach the bins.

GRAND OPENING HELD IN GWINNER Public gets tour of new CHS grain, fertilizer facility

C

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

HS Dakota Plains Ag held a grand opening for its new grain and fertilizer site Sept. 7 in Gwinner, opening the facility up for guided tours.

A large crowd showed up for tours and also received a look at the rail operations on a day that celebrated the completion of a large project that will serve Gwinner and the surrounding area.

“It was important to our producers, growers and owners that we have an opportunity to source a cooperative grain system,” General Manager Dennis Novacek said. “It made a whole lot of sense to come together on a project this size.”

The grain tour took people through the electronic operations

CHS Dakota Plains Ag General Manager Dennis Novacek, middle, readies to cut the ribbon during the grand opening of the new grain and fertilizer plant in Gwinner.

and then underground, where tour guide Charlie Johnson followed the path of the conveyer.

The facility is set to hold 2.2 million bushels of grain.

Fertilizer Hub Plant Manager Dustin Kath went the opposite direction, describing a state-ofthe-art computer system before leading the tour up several flights of stairs to the top of the bins, also showing the conveyer system.

The bins can hold 27,000 tons of dry fertilizer.

In attaching a shuttle facility,

Novacek said it became important the facility moves grain in addition to fertilizer.

“The investment in a loop track to be able to take fertilizer in a quantity the market demands right now and to make the best use of this facility ­— it only makes sense to ship grain on it as well,” he said. “We’ve already got the investment in the mile-long track.”

Sargent County Farmers Union board member Colin Sundquist said he feels the new facility will lead to increased competition for farmers.

“It’ll give them a better market situation,” he said. “There’s a lot of growth in elevators out here, and this is probably one of the bigger facilities. It’s another market for them to use.”

Said Novacek: “It’s an investment for the future. You’re a steward of a cooperative, just like you’re a steward of the land. These facilities allow you to take care of the next two generations.” s

TOP: The fertilizer tour took the public to the top of the storage bins.

LEFT: Charlie Johnson leads the grain tour to its end before turning around, as construction crews were still working to finish up a few things.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

October 2016

9

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 is October 15

Contact us to repeat your ad. Limit 175 words.

FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE 4020 JD tractor; Super M IHC w/loader, F11 loader; Vermeer G baler for parts; 4000 IH swather for parts; loading chute w/panels; salt feeders. 824-2202, Oscar Klein, Mott.

FOR SALE 2007 18’ gooseneck horse trailer, 2 horse slant, w/living quarters, can pull w/1/2 ton pickup, 10,500 mi. on trailer, always shedded, like new, Star hitch, 14 ply steel tires (4,000 mi.) plus spare, rubber trailer floor, new battery, walk thru door to 9.7’ L x 7’ W living area, 2 propane bottles, 3-way 5.5 cu. ft. fridge, 110V A.C., furnace, 110V converter 45 amp., vinyl floor, knotty pine walls, light cupboards, kitchen sink & 2 burner cook stove (stainless steel), TV antenna w/ digital tv, lots of storage. 843-7257, Sharan Bethke, New Salem.

FOR SALE IHC 8220 pull-type swather w/finger reel, CFH0065831; JD 914 6 belt pickup header, H00914N665225;JD 9660 STS Bullet Rotor, 2,473 eng. hrs., 1,861 separator hrs., H0966057115721; Wheatheart jump auger, hyd. motor; Westfield augers - W 60-31, W 80-36, WR 70-46, all w/7.5 hp. elect. motors, W 80-56 - pto.; like new swing auger, MK 100-71 pto., 36’ Wilrich chisel plow w/3 bar harrow; Woods BW1800 12 hrs, like new; 40’ of Morris 3 bar harrow, good shape. 435-2765 or 6591598, Craig Hoggarth, Kensal.

FOR SALE 28’ - 53’ semi van storage trailers, some with side doors; loading ramps; flatbed trailers; converter dolly; containers; water trailers for spraying. 474-5780, Richard Rydell, Fairmount.

FOR SALE 12” Tip Tops for a truck, well built, good shape, 19’ box, 18’7” x 90” inside measurement, on 19’ box, $225 obo. 579-4250 lv. msg., Duane Wobig, New England.

FOR SALE Hesston 565 T-round baler, twine tie, field ready; Snoco grain cleaner; new 20’ Versatile sickle. 878-4966 days, 878-4957 nights, Chester Brandt, Hebron.

FOR SALE 4640 JD with 168 loader, quad range, 90% tires, 9,600 hrs., new rods & main bearing at 9,200 hrs., excellent tractor, needs cab kit, $18,000. 202-2662, Jerris Backsen, New Salem.

FOR SALE JD Model B tractor, factory wide front, 6 spd. trans., new rear tires, good tin, late model, runs great, $3,000; 9’IH sickle mower, new head, new style sickle, $2,200; 1971 Pontiac Catalina, 2 dr. hardtop, runs great, 400 engine, $2,500.

361-3319, Don Triebold, Valley City.

10

October 2016

FOR SALE 20,000 KW Winco pto driven generator in trailer, always shedded, works good, $1,200 obo. 374-7851, Gary Hoffman, Ashley.

FOR SALE JD 509 trailing rotary mower, nice condition, $1,250; Rowse 36’ dump rake, ideal for upland hay and bunching flax straw, $1,250. 509-9019 or 839-6143, Steve Axness, Minot.

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 2010 Case IH combine, 8120 deluxe cab, dual wheels; 2008 New Holland 94C 36’ draper header, auto header height; 2008 New Holland 76C 16; pickup header; 2008 Case IH 485 HD tractor, deluxe cab, 600 monitor; 4 1450 anhydrous tanks, good condition; 1963 Dodge truck, tandem; 1975 IH tandem truck, Rietin Box; 1972 Freightliner tractor w/1974 Alloy trailer, 38’; Wishek h.d. disk; 61’ Westfield 10” dia. w/Auger Jogger and never spill spout; H D8-1600 Sakundiak auger w/electric motor; HDJ - 1200 Sakundiak auger w/ electric motor; pushoff hay basket for JD 148 loader. 784-5987, David Brossart, Lansford.

FOR SALE 1910 Fosston No. 24 grain cleaner, $200; endgate drill fill, $150; in box drill fill, $125; IH Cyclo 6 row planter drums & monitor, $100. 497-3845, Roger Christenson, Plaza.

FOR SALE Bobcat CT 450 tractor, 49 hp., 150 hrs., 9tl loader, 88” bucket, 540 pto. hydrosstatic, hyd. rear, 3 pt., cab w/heat & AC, radio, lights & wipers front & rear, Sheyenne Black Max Model 600L snowblower, very nice unit, would like to sell as unit but will separate, $30,000. 845-3524, Dennis Laumb, Valley City.

FOR SALE 1996 9600 JD combine, $25,000; 930R head w/finger reel, $5,000; ‘2005’ 914 pickup head, $10,000; 224 sunflower head, $5,000; ‘2013’ 36’ tricycle style header trailer w/lights, $5,100; 1460 IH combine, Case IH 1010 head w/finger reel, 810 pickup head, $9,500; Ez guide 500 w/Ez-steer and ‘2002’ Summers 1,500 gal. 100’ boom sprayer, $20,000; 1984 895 Versatile tractor w/new tires and rebuilt engine, $21,500; 3,000 gal. Green Enduraplas water tank for hauling water to sprayer, $1,100. 7646410, Casey Lund, Killdeer.

FOR SALE IH - A, good tires, good paint, new flywheel, new starter, new battery, new seat, new exhaust, restored, nice shape, $2,500; JD LA tractor, like new, $5,000; JD #40, good shape; nice shape JD - MT, restored, $4,500. 226-6198, George Bitz, Napoleon.

FOR SALE 320 DuAll loader, 7’ bucket, 3 spool valve, good pto. pump, real straight, no wear, no welds, Oliver mounts, $600. 391-6865, Ron Gessele, Bismarck.

FOR SALE Single 3 pt bale spear, $75. 763-6163, Walter Job, Windsor.

FOR SALE 2012 MX-5 JD rotary mower, like new, very few hours, $2,100. 662-8512, Randy Olson, Devils Lake.

FOR SALE 6450 Hesston swather w/new drive tire, 14’ hay head & 20’ grain head, can lay 40’ swath, shifting draper, used little, always shedded; 496 IHC tandem disk, 25’, nice cond. 878-4841 or 290-2925, Bernhard Schwenk, Hebron.

FOR SALE Lahman stack mover, 24 1/2’ x 12 1/2’ w/12.5L-16 tires, in good shape; 2 wooden creep feeders, 1 tinned both w/ metal guards; 2 split rims, 8-25-20, 10 hole; 2 rims, 900-20, 8 hole; 265 gal. oval fuel tank; 114 New Holland haybine parts.

465-3550, Kenneth Seehafer, Drake.

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 Hs & Ms; 1 late model Super M. larryn@westriv.com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields.

FOR SALE 1959 Ford 1 1/2 ton truck, 14’ steel box, wood floor; 700 bu. hopper bin, 2 & 4 ton hopper bins. 724-3643, Duane Lock, Forman.

FOR SALE Woods mower, RM 59, 3 pt.; Coleman Powermate generator, 4,000 watt, 120 & 240 outlets, on cart; 2000 watt Pincol alternator w/5 hp. Briggs & Stratton eng.

Both units in A1 condition. 270-0184, Harold Severson, Lakota.

FOR SALE 41’ Morris 912 chisel plow, $9,000 obo; ‘87 Autocar semi, 9 spd., 425 Cat., wet kit, low miles, $6,000 obo; ‘85 GMC dually 1 ton, 350, 4x4, new tires, $4,000 obo; ‘83 Chev. 3/4 ton, 4x4, 6.3 diesel, $2,750.

263-7462 or 263-1407, Earl Roland, Bottineau.

FOR SALE MF 22’ tandem disc, excel. cond.; chaff spreader, new, works on JD 20 Series combine, machine drive; 1982 Versatile 4400 24’ swather, new AC comp., radio, shedded; 1995 MacDon 2900 25’ swather, picking reel, twin swath. 8451962, Ron Winkler, Oriska.

FOR SALE Titan 7x24 stock trailer, 2 center gates, good floor, good tires, shedded, not used in 4 yrs. 734-2251 or 220-9263 Robert Anderson or 226-8626 Seth, Wilton.

FOR SALE 750x16 8 ply tires and rims - 8 hole, 3 rib tires, 90%, fits Case tractor, $375.

628-6949 or 314-640-1884, Rose or Mike Ryan, Stanley.

WANTED Smaller 40-50 hp. utility tractor, preferably w/3 pt. & hyds., any age or make; self-propelled grain swather w/20’-24’ header. 597-3107, Ken Koch, Shields.

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 RLM JD 46” - 48” D140 100 Series: 40” - 48” aerator plugger; barrel roller, 48”; 2 - 2 row potato digger. 916-296-8740, Richard Grabowski, Selz.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Purebred Norwegian Elkhound puppies, will be ready end of Sept., after 1st shots & vet. check, $100 down to hold one.

256-3220, Danny Livingood, Langdon.

FOR SALE Pickup box stock rack, heavy duty, $150; pickup tow hitch, $100; alum. fuel tanks for semi and brackets, 75 gal. & 100 gal., $250; snare drum w/hard case, sticks & beginners book, Popplers, GF checked out & replaced tightner, $200; French horn w/case & beginners book, older horn, brass dull refurbished by Popplers, $140. 543-3843, Deb Hannestad, Hatton.

FOR SALE Amish 4 person buggy, new pull shaves, 2 black velveteen adjust. & folding seats, setup for hyd. brakes, safety lighting & switches, windows: 2 front movable, 3 fixed, naugahyde sides, top & back drop (opens) good cond, 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., h.d. trailer, $15,800; old homestead house, 26’x12’, 11’ high at peak, 2 room, sturdy, to be moved, $2,000; old grain shed, 16’x12’, 9’ high front, 7’ back, can be dismantled, $800. 628-6949 or 314799-6949, Rose or Mike Ryan, Stanley.

FOR SALE 2012 MKT Bay KZ toy trailer, 28’ L, 1 slide, sleeps 6, used 3 times, convection oven, dish satellite; old Rolling Stones magazines: HP 6100 color printer w/accessories & ink cartridges; cassette tapes & old LPs. 240-4998, Perry Miller, Minot.

FOR SALE 1994 Park Model in Good Life Resort, Mesa, AZ, 1 bedroom w/new windows & screens in 2016 and A/C in 2014, well kept, active 55+ community, $16,000, call for pics. and info. 492-6244 or 524-2119, Cheryl Thompson, Fargo.

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 215-70-R15. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley.

FOR SALE Elvis Presley albums; vintage seed scale; stained glass window; buffet from 1930s era; Pioneer stereo speakers; cuff links; tie tacs; Kennedy dollar coins; Teddy Roosevelt dollar coins; George Jones album/autographed picture/guitar pic; 45 & 78 records; peddle car for restoring.

500-9522, Monte Reiner, Minot.

GIVE AWAY Used oil, 30 gal. barrels, will help load.

482-7868, Curt Graff, Donnybrook.

FOR SALE 10x14 steel Behlen quonset sliding doors; running boards for 2015 Ford F150 pickup. 435-2521, Monica Backer, Courtenay.

FOR SALE Delta pickup tool box, 14 1/2” H x 71” W x 20 1/2” D, 2 lids w/locks $75; new 17” car tire rim w/tire from a 2012 Ford Fusion, $75. 597-3107, Ken Koch, Shields.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

FOR SALE 2005 Camp Master toy hauler, 20’ pull-behind, 8’x10’ living quarters, 8’x10’ cargo area, drop down door, levelers, plate rock guard and awning, toilet, shower, sink, microwave, rooftop AC new hot water heater, gas & electric fridge, TV receiver; 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 Men’s London Fog winter dress coat, tan Wamsutta cloth, treated w/Dupont Zepel stain repeller, zip-out warm inner lining, size 44 reg., 36” L, like new, $60. 9452720, Ranee Svenningsen, Luverne.

FOR SALE 18” Crestliner w/trailer, 115 h.p. Mercury, depth finder, trolling motor, open bow, live well, $3,500. 763-6163, Walter Job, Windsor.

WANTED Tractor parts for Case D, DC, SC, VAC, LA; some parts for R - MM; radiators for D & VAC Case, R - MM, WC Chalmers; other misc. parts. 845-4303, Henrik Voldal, Valley City.

WANTED Guillotine type tobacco plug cutter; end table w/large eagle claw legs on glass balls; vintage cuff link sets; Marantz stereo equipment; vintage steamer wardrobe trunk; Beatles records & posters; Teddy Roosevelt items. 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.

WANTED To buy heavy sheeted brass. 220-3085 or 597-3725, Ernie Hinderer, Flasher.

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

VEHICLES FOR SALE 2006 379 Peterbilt, 36K, 475 Cat, C15, 13 spd., 63” walk-in, 3.55 ratio, 355 rear ends, APU, auto. wheel balancers, stainless steel dual air cleaners & air tank, full gauge package, wooden wheel, ivory color, 1,040,000 mi.; 2013 Cross Country belly dump trailer, triple axle w/tarp, good tires and brakes, cylinders straight, excellent shape, 28K or lease option also, serious inquiries.. 307751-8110, Pete Johner, Beulah.

FOR SALE 1989 Ford F150 pickup, 2 WD, Radco topper, 54,000 mi., 392 ci., auto, AC, PS, 2 gas tanks, excell. tires and cond., licensed, always garaged, 1 owner. 952-8973 - Glen Nagel or 368-1499 Boyce, Jamestown.

FOR SALE 1952 Dodge truck, 53,000 original mi., always shedded, can be restored. 7566953, Bruce Johnson, Mohall.

FOR SALE 1981 Buick Century, auto on floor, bucket seats, air, factory installed V8 4.3L motor, mint cond.; 1951 Straight 8 Buick. larryn@westriv.com, 597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields FOR SALE 1979 Ford Club Wagon Chateau, good tires, good condition, would make a good hunting vehicle. 435-2521, John or Monica Backer, Courtenay.

FOR SALE 1974 VW Kampmobile bus, 75,000 mi., parked for 8 yrs., needs fuel lines replaced, $2,500. 629-0223, Wayne Morman, Stanley.

WANTED 1970 Chevy Chevelle SS, good to excellent condition. 435-2441, Terry (Mac) McMillan, Wimbledon.

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE 11 yr. old QH/Paint gelding, 15.2 hands, BK/WT trail rides, used all summer, does have get up and go, $2,600, would trade for well-broke Haflinger mare that rides and drives, she can have a foal at side or in foal for next year, or even a 3 in one package, would consider a pair of geldings that ride and drive. 543-3843, Deb Hannestad, Hatton.

WANTED Older well broke horse, 14-15 hands tall. 734-2251 or 226-8626 lv. message, Robert Anderson, Wilton.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Hobby farmstead - corrals, buildings, bins, house, garage w/5 acres. 824-2202, Oscar Klein, Mott.

FOR SALE Price reduced, commercial property for sale, large shop, school building and all of block 9, Alamo ND, $200,000. 5704660, Rocky Hewson, Alamo.

FOR SALE Approx. 11 acres w/3 bdrm. house, 2 garages, barn, quonset, storage shed, new roof on house and artisen well system, tree lined driveway and yard, large garden area, located on Cnty. Rd. 18, 5 mi. NW of Stanton, sealed bids mailed to: Harold & Mardi Vavra, 4430 15th St SW, Stanton ND 58571.Ph: 748-2841 or 207-0723.

FOR SALE, 1994 Jeep, needs work; 2000 Ford Explorer XLT, needs work, needs lower intake, brand new tires. Both will start and run.

240-4998, Perry Miller, Minot.

October 2016

11

CRAZY ABOUT BARLEY STUTRUD FAMILY FARM RAISING MALT FOR COUSIN’S ST. PAUL-BASED BREWING COMPANY

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

T

12

he fourth and fifth generations of the Stutrud family farm are stepping outside the box to solidify their future.

Since 2010, Todd and his son Josh have been producing a unique variety of malting barley for St. Paul, Minn.-based Summit Brewing Company, which has used the “Moravian-37” to create a distinct flavor for its Pilsener beer.

It’s a process that isn’t easy to come by for the average farmer, but Todd Stutrud had an in – his cousin Mark is the founder of Summit.

“My dad (Jim) had been down to the brewery for a tour, and he and Mark started talking, and Mark called a month later and asked if we would be interested in raising this barley for them,” said Todd, who farms north of Rugby. “They brought the seed up here, and we raised it.”

For Mark Stutrud, it was a chance to preserve a traditional barley quickly going out of style.

“That variety is a classic workhorse, but it also has some flavor characteristics,” Mark said. “(Brewers) are moving away from this Moravian variety and going toward greater enzyme activity. This barley might have gone away if Todd hadn’t gotten involved in reviving this classic variety. There are some very nice grain, grassy notes that give you this malt structure for beer.”

If Mark Stutrud sounds like he is a big fan of barley, that’s because he is. He calls barley “the soul of beer.”

“We’re in barley country,” Mark Stutrud said. “If we don’t have that signature flavor of malts and that malt-dance and play off hops and have a real nice balance, it’s like we’re forsaking our souls.”

It’s worked out well for Todd and Josh, both members of Willow City Farmers Union Oil with degrees Octoberfrom 2016 North Dakota State University.

Years ago, Jim Stutrud farmed and told his son Todd to go to college rather than take over the family farm out of high school. He did, getting a degree and teaching vocational agriculture in Willow City for 15 years.

“I was always told growing up that you have to go to college,” Todd said. “Economically, you need something to fall back on.”

The same went for Josh, who earned an agronomy degree from NDSU and does parttime work in that field.

“His requirement was a bachelor’s degree to come home and farm,” Josh said, pointing to his dad. “I also do our own agronomy for the farm.”

It’s a full-on family operation, something Mark is proud of. His father Odin worked at the McKenzie County Farmer in Watford City and also briefly owned the Sargent County Teller while living in Forman, before moving to Wahpeton where he had a family.

Because of his North Dakota roots, Mark enjoys a Pilsener that much more.

“When I’m having one, to me it tastes better because it has Stutrud malt in it,” Mark said.

“My pride wells up. One hundred percent of the malt in our Pilsener is from the family farm. We may make it in St. Paul, but the roots of that beer are north central North Dakota.”

Josh has high hopes for the future, one of which is trying to convince Summit to let them raise the base malt for all of their beer – a tall order for any family.

Soon, though, the Stutruds could be receiving drive-by recognition. Josh said it’s common in Europe for signs to go up outside farms denoting that a particular barley is being raised exclusively.

Consider cousin Mark on board.

“It’s a way to really recognize the farmer,” Mark said. “I like the idea because it’s a statement of performance, Union and it’s pro-beer.” s Farmer • www.ndfu.org

“When I’m having one, to me it tastes better because it has Stutrud malt in it.

My pride wells up. One hundred percent of the malt in our Pilsener is from the family farm.

We may make it in St. Paul, but the roots of that beer are north central North Dakota.”

Mark Stutrud Founder of Summit Brewing Company Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

October 2016

13

HETTICH: FARMERS NEED EMOTIONAL SUPPORT, TOO

M

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

arcia Hettich hears the conversations every day from gas stations to small-town restaurants -farmers engaging about how best to deal with low commodity prices and keep their family farms afloat.

Hettich, a longtime mental health advocate from Elgin, said farmers and ranchers are feeling the pinch, and they need to seek help if the stress starts to become too much.

“It can be harder for a farmer,” Hettich said. “They’re proud.

It’s harder for them to seek out the help they need. What would happen if they were having chest pains or numbness or other signs of a heart attack? They’d get in (for help) right away. If they’re feeling down or depressed or hopeless, no energy or poor appetite, they need to get in for services.”

For those unsure if they should seek help, mhand.org is a valuable resource that includes an online health screening. Hettich also suggests reaching out.

“We’re hurting out here in

COUNTY CONVENTIONS BOTTINEAU – Oct. 17 • 6 p.m.

Norway House

BURLEIGH – Oct. 10 • 5:30 p.m. registration, 6 p.m. meal Tumbleweed Grill, Lincoln

GRAND FORKS – Nov. 14, 6 p.m.

Public Works Facility, Grand Forks

LaMOURE – Nov. 20 • 6 p.m. meal • LaMoure Civic Center

McKENZIE – Oct. 27 • following co-op annual meeting supper Outlaws Ballroom, Watford City

MERCER – Nov. 8 • 5 p.m.

registration, 6 p.m. meal • Beulah Civic Center

MORTON – Oct. 27 • 5:30 p.m.

registration, 6 p.m. meal • Baymont Inn, Mandan

RANSOM – Oct. 30 • TBD RICHLAND – Nov. 13 • 5 p.m.

Pizza Ranch, Wahpeton

SARGENT – Oct. 30 • Gwinner SIOUX – Oct. 28 • 7 p.m. • Selfridge

High School • Youth Halloween Party

STUTSMAN – Nov. 10 • 6 p.m. • NDFU State Office 14

October 2016

rural North Dakota,” Hettich said. “Communities support each other. The people help each other and strengthen the communities in which we belong.”

However, getting past perception can be a problem. It’s estimated that one in four people in America have mental health

issues in their lifetime.

“We need to first have a conversation about the stigma and how we can forget about it,” Hettich said. “Look at what’s going on, reach out to the people around us, let them know how we feel and take the next step of getting in to see someone.” s

CONVENTION NOTICE FOR NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION To All Members: Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, North Dakota Division.

Pursuant to Article III. Section 2, of the Bylaws of this Association, you are hereby notified that the 90th Annual State Convention of the Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, North Dakota Division, will be held at the the Bismarck Event Center, Bismarck, North Dakota, December 9-10, 2016. Official business at 10 a.m., December 9, 2016.

Mark Watne, President

ATTEST: Ellen Linderman, Secretary

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF FARMERS UNION MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY, LTD. Current policyholders are hereby notified that they are members of the above named insurance company and that the annual meeting of such company will be held at the Bismarck Event Center, Bismarck, North Dakota, beginning Friday, December 9, 2016, and continuing on Saturday, December 10, 2016.

Mark Watne, President; ATTEST: Mark Anderson, Secretary

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION 1.Title of Publication: North Dakota Farmers Union Union Farmer 2. Publication #: 01-6211 3. Date of filing: 9-16-2016 4. Issue Frequency: Monthly + one special edition in October 5. Issues per year: 13 6. Annual subscription: $30 members 7. Complete address of known office of publication: 1415 12th Avenue SE, Jamestown, ND 58401 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters: 1415 12th Avenue SE, Jamestown, ND 58401 9. Full name and address of publisher: Mark Watne, NDFU President, 1415 12th Avenue SE, Jamestown, ND 58401 Full name and address of editor: Chris Aarhus, 1415 12th Avenue SE, Jamestown, ND 58401 10. There are no known bondholders, mortgagees and other security holders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities.

11. Known bondholders, mortgages and other security holders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities: None 12. Tax status has not changed during preceding 12 months.

13. Publication title: North Dakota Farmers Union Union Farmer 14. Issue date for circulation data below: October 1, 2016 Extent and Nature of Circulation 13 Issue Average Actual Number Last Run 15.a

Total Number of Press Run

35,197

34,369

15.b 15.b 15.b 15.b 15.c 15.d 15.d 15.d 15.d 15.e 15.f 15.g 15.h 15.i

(1) Paid/requested Outside County 35,197 (2) Paid In-County Subscriptions 0 (3) Sales Through Dealers 0 (4) Other Classes 0 Total Paid Circulation 35,197 (1) Free Distribution Outside Co. 850 (2) In County 0 (3) Other Classes 0 Free Outside Mail 0 Total Free Distribution 850 Total Distribution 36,047 Copies Not Distributed 100 Total 34,147 Percent Paid: 97.6%

34,369 0 0 0 34,369 850 0 0 0 850 35,210 100 35,310 97.3%

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

2016

VOTING GUIDE Y

our vote is your voice as an American citizen.

It’s your opportunity to be heard, to hold elected officials accountable for their decisions and to have a say in important issues that affect your community. On election day, every vote matters. This year, the general election will be held on Nov. 8.

All North Dakota voting information may be accessed through the official portal web site: https://vip.sos.nd.gov.

Proper identification is also required at voting time, but voters may sign an affidavit if they do not have an acceptable form of ID. North Dakota does not have voter registration.

However, in order to vote in North Dakota, you must be: • A U.S. citizen • At least 18 years old on the day of election • A North Dakota resident • A precinct resident for 30 days preceding the election.

Many counties also Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

allow for early voting.

Dates and availability differ by county. To find your local voting place and times, go to: https://vip.sos. nd.gov and click on Where to Vote or contact your local county courthouse for more information.

All eligible North Dakotans have the option to request a ballot before the day of an election in a process known as absentee voting. An application is required to be submitted anytime within the calendar year of an election. Ballots are not available until the 40th day before an election. For more information or to access the application, go to: https://vip.sos.nd.gov and click Vote by Mail/ Absentee.

In this section, North Dakota Farmers Union has organized questions and answers from the Democratic and Republican candidates for the races of United States House and Senate, North Dakota governor , North Dakota superintendent of public instruction and North Dakota insurance commissioner.

October 2016

15

GOVERNOR DOUG BURGUM Republican

MARVIN NELSON Dem-NPL

The Doug Burgum campaign declined to respond to the questionnaire from North Dakota Farmers Union.

Tell us about yourself and why you’re running for governor.

NELSON: I grew up on a small farm near Rugby. I graduated college from NDSU-Bottineau and NDSU in Fargo with an entomology degree. I’ve been an agricultural consultant since college and live by Rolla.

My wife is Susan and we have two children in Jessica and Carl. I’m also an ordained elder at Ebenezer Lutheran Brethren.

I’m running because the state of North Dakota is willing to destroy individuals through Workforce Safety and Insurance, land such as salted lands from oil development, and in general is run for out of state corporations and not its citizens. State agencies have low morale and those who most need services have trouble accessing them. People all across the state in nonprofits, nursing homes, hospitals, local government and so on are scared to speak up when they have problems fearing retribution. I’m tired of it. When the state will use its power to destroy volunteer firefighters who are injured, it’s time for a change.

Since 2007, the North Dakota Legislature has been able to provide almost $2 billion in property tax relief.

Since then, North Dakota has seen its revenues fall substantially. Will North Dakota be able to sustain this level of tax relief in the upcoming biennium, and is it a priority for you to continue it?

As a result of the depressed commodity market, family farmers will have a tough time making ends meet over the coming year. As governor, what will you do to provide North Dakota’s producers with tools to help them succeed?

NELSON: One thing we need to do is to have an ag summit. The basic question is what can we do and how do we do it. We can’t just give everyone loans. We have resources that can be used, but they must be used wisely.

Fewer and fewer implement dealers mean higher costs for producers through longer distances from service.

One thing that could be done is the state mill and elevator could be run to maximize the price of wheat instead of being run to maximize profits. Raising the price of wheat even a few cents would have a much larger financial effect than transferring some profits into the general fund. We also do need mental health services throughout the state. There were some services pushed during the last farm crises, then they faded away. We must actually commit to a vibrant, viable rural North Dakota.

About Doug Burgum The Fargo entreprenauer surprised Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem with a dominant win in the primary.

Burgum is a native of Arthur.

NELSON: In this time of tightened finances for the state, keeping the programs funded by the state is a major priority of mine. I remember what happened in the 70s and 80s where state responsibility was pushed down onto the local level and thus property tax. That is why I alone of governor candidates have not taken a no tax increase pledge. Saying the state is not going to raise taxes for any reason at any time no matter what is simply saying let’s raise property taxes. Local government has the responsibility to provide services, and those must be paid for. The fallback is always property taxes. I would really like to see the funding of social services once again taken back by the state. You should not receive different services or pay higher taxes for social services depending on where you live.

18

October 2016

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

U.S. HOUSE CHASE IRON EYES Dem-NPL

KEVIN CRAMER Republican

The Chase Iron Eyes and Kevin Cramer campaigns could not be reached for their responses to the questionnaire from North Dakota Farmers Union.

About Chase Iron Eyes Raised on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation, Iron Eyes is a lawyer by trade. He ran unopposed in the primary.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

About Kevin Cramer Cramer, originally from Kindred, seeks a third consecutive term to the U.S. House of Representatives. He was unopposed in the primary.

October 2016

195 17

U.S. SENATE JOHN HOEVEN Republican

What new policies could you bring to the table in order to ensure a cheap food policy while making sure that farmers and ranchers are still able to make a reasonable living?

HOEVEN: Our farmers and ranchers supply the highest quality, lowest cost food supply in the world. As a member of the conference committee that wrote the final version of the farm bill we focused on improving crop insurance and providing certainty so our producers can manage risk and plan for the future. As we look toward the next farm bill, we need to take what works, like enhanced crop insurance, and improve on programs like ARC and PLC. GLASSHEIM: Net farm income in 2016 is projected to be down for the third straight year to $71 billion. The government safety net is projected to be up significantly to $13.5 billion (PLC, ARC and other federal programs). The question is what to do in the next Farm Bill to give farmers greater certainty that they can make a decent living under current conditions of low commodity prices.

First, we must fight to maintain the sugar program in the next farm bill. Second, we must strengthen crop insurance to provide a guaranteed safety net for farmers.

Additionally, we should carefully examine the options for managing oversupply. The last Farm Bill cut the CRP acreage from 36 million to 24 million. We need to restore CRP crop acreage to the level prior to the last Farm Bill.

Given the roller coaster ride of farm prices, we should consider whether to make shorter-term contracts available to farmers.

The price support system also plays an important role in guaranteeing farm income. But it has some drawbacks, which require further review and discussion. For example, the system is overly complex. Because it’s hard to project what the payment will be on last year’s crop, farmers can’t use anticipated price support payments to obtain needed bank loans for operating cash. Using a five-year average could bring greater certainty to the program.

Lifting the trade embargo on Cuba, would also increase farmer profitability by expanding the market for North Dakota crops. Similarly, legalizing the growing of commercial hemp, which has relatively low input costs and relatively high price, and encouraging more organic acres could also help lead to greater farmer profitability.

Would you support disaster relief for farmers if commodity prices continue to collapse?

HOEVEN: I understand the challenges faced by farmers during this time of low commodity prices. From my seat on the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I worked with Secretary Vilsack to increase funding in the current fiscal year for FSA backed operating loans, and I will continue to work to provide increased loan authority for the upcoming fiscal year.

Also, I introduced the Capital for Farmers and Ranchers Act in July with Senator Klobuchar. This bill doubles the cap on direct operating and direct farm ownership loans from $300,000 to $600,000 and increases the cap on guaranteed operating loans and guaranteed farm ownership loans to $2,500,000 from the current $1,399,000.

ELIOT GLASSHEIM Dem-NPL

These increases will give our producers needed flexibility to help make it through this downturn.

If the current downturn continues, I believe we must look at all options, including additional disaster assistance, to help our family farmers feed and fuel the nation.

GLASSHEIM: Yes, I am committed to supporting federal funding for disaster relief for farmers.

Farmers and ranchers are continuously being asked to establish practices to ensure safe water, land conservation and animal endangerment prevention.

While we also believe these are important practices, family farmers and ranchers are asked to spend money on these practices without seeing a return. How can we begin to incentivize these practices?

HOEVEN: It is important for Americans to recognize that our farmers and ranchers are the best stewards of their land, because their livelihoods depend on it.

That is why I have fought against unnecessary and burdensome regulations. In addition to leading the effort to defund WOTUS, I passed language through last year’s appropriations bill to preserve the farm exemption to WOTUS. As a member of both the Senate Agriculture Committee and the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I have worked to expand programs that provide tools for farmers and ranchers to meet conservation objectives in ways that make sense for their operations. I have championed programs such as State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement, which gives flexibility for producers to utilize the Conservation Reserve Program. I have also continued to support the Environmental Quality Incentive Program which provides technical and financial assistance to agricultural producers looking to implement conservation practices and meet environmental regulations.

GLASSHEIM: We should make incentives available to farmers who are willing to take meaningful steps to ensure safe water quality, land conservation, and the prevention of animal endangerment. For example, Department of Interior conservation cost share payments should be excluded from taxation and landowners should be provided with tax credits for expenses associated with safe harbor agreements and other agreements that benefit rare and endangered species.

We should also increase funding for the Private Stewardship Grants Program and State Landowner Incentive Program. The Conservation Stewardship Program has been used to encourage crop rotation and cover crops.

Market-based approaches to environmental problems can also play an important role. Utilities needing to reduce carbon emissions should pay farmers who cut their methane emissions on the farm to trade conservation credits. The same approach could be taken for growing cover crops to curb water pollution or storing carbon emissions underground. In the U.S. Senate, I will favor innovative approaches with the twin goals of improving the environment and increasing farmers’ financial stability.

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER RUTH BUFFALO Dem-NPL

JON GODFREAD Republican

The Ruth Buffalo campaign could not be reached for its response to the questionnaire from North Dakota Farmers Union.

Why are you running for insurance commissioner?

GODFREAD: I am running for Insurance Commissioner, because insurance affects all our lives and this position can help ensure it is cost-efficient and effective for all North Dakotans. We all use insurance and insurance plays a critical role in both our everyday lives and in our economy as well. Without insurance, many of us would not be able to own a home or a car, or open a new business or expand an existing business. It’s with that in mind that I want to serve as Insurance Commissioner, to help improve the lives of hardworking North Dakotans.

In your opinion, what is the most important role of the Insurance Commissioner?

GODFREAD: Job No. 1 of any insurance commissioner is consumer protection. It’s a consumer protection agency and serves as the last line of defense of the North Dakota consumer. If you have an issue with an insurance claim or your insurance company, you have two options, go to court or go to the Insurance Commissioner. As a licensed attorney, I can say that by taking your insurance company to court, you will likely spend more on the legal battle than your claim is worth. By going to the Insurance Commissioner, consumers instead have an advocate to work on their behalf without the expense of hefty legal fees. This is a very valuable benefit to consumers. In my experience, I have worked with regulators, insurance companies and consumers, I understand this office from all different sides and how important this office is to our consumers.

Health insurance is a vital product for family farmers and producers. As Insurance Commissioner, how can you help make sure healthcare remains affordable and available for North Dakota’s rural citizens?

GODFREAD: Health insurance is certainly a difficult topic; we are seeing the cost of healthcare grow at ever increasing rates. While the North Dakota Insurance Commissioner has little oversight of what goes into health insurance (much of that is decided at the federal level), the Insurance Commissioner does set rates. Long range planning can hopefully help ease the rate of increases, while keeping the market competitive. What we have seen are long periods of zero or very low increases, followed by a “make-up” year with increases of 25-35 percent. Until there is a broader discussion on healthcare delivery or some changes made to our current federal regulations, the reality is the cost of healthcare is increasing, but we need to plan better and with an eye to the future to spread those increases out over a longer period of time.

The best Insurance Commissioner is one that protects consumers through vigorous defense of their rights and pocketbook, fosters a marketplace with fair and consistent regulation, and is accessible to consumers and agents alike. It is this common-sense approach that I will bring to the office. If elected, I will work hard for the citizens

of North Dakota to be the fair, consistent, and accessible Insurance Commissioner they deserve.

About Ruth Buffalo Buffalo ran unopposed in the Democratic primary. The Mandaree native has Masters degrees in Public Health, Management and Business Administration.

SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION KIRSTEN BAESLER

Why are you running for superintendent of public instruction?

BAESLER: I am running for re-election to the Department of Public Instruction because as a third generation North Dakotan who was raised and educated in North Dakota schools, colleges and universities and who chose to raise and educate my three fourth generation sons in North Dakota schools, colleges and universities I am deeply committed to our great state, its education system and foremost to our 110,000 students!

I believe my education, experiences and knowledge of North Dakota people and policy uniquely and strongly prepares me for this important job’s responsibilities.

CHIANG: DPI has said they were pleased to announce 60 percent of our students cannot read, write or do the math at an acceptable level. Is a 60 percent failure good?

I came to North Dakota with a 95 percent pass rate.

At a school with a five percent pass rate, administrators told me and I quote “Under no circumstances are you to fix math education” at our school. Because they wanted to qualify for a $250,000 per year federal grant.

I want to implement common sense teaching, not common core; which would restore our 80 percent pass rates like before 2012.

In the 2017 session, the Legislature will have to make tough decisions in order to balance the budget.

What actions can the Legislature take to ensure that education continues to be funded at over 70 percent from the state?

BAESLER: I began my career in the classroom teaching students, and that experience and perspective will always be my core. As a vice principal, school board leader, and DPI Superintendent, I have never lost this focus. In a report released last fall, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce declared North Dakota has the best conduit of talent in the nation. This is a big achievement and recognizes the high priority North Dakota gives its education system.

We must ensure that before our students leave our high schools, they are prepared to meet the growing complexity of our traditional industries, of energy and agriculture, and the emerging careers that will come as our state continues to grow and diversify. The speed of these changes demands more responsiveness from education. As our state takes appropriate action for a lower budget, we will collaborate again with legislators, employers, families and students to ensure our education system continues to lead the nation because we all want a world-class education system that serves students, parents and communities.

CHIANG: The short answer is that we need to follow the state constitution concerning school funding, which we are not. Our constitution says the state will provide a free education. It does not say the state and federal government. It does not say the state and school property tax. So the way we are funding our schools is obviously not constitutional.

The constitution does establish a school land fund.

But the superintendent has been agreeing with the rest of that those funds cannot be used for North 8 the board October 2016

JOE CHIANG

Dakota schools. As a result, less than one percent of the funds has found its way to our schools (the income from this fund was expected, by our founders, to fully fund our schools forever).

So, what is happening to these funds? The constitution established the Bank of North Dakota to take care of such funds, but the board has preferred to let New York bankers care for them at a cost of some $300 million in commissions a year.

In summary, the Legislature can investigate the less than constitutional way the School Land Funds have been handled and this would return funds from trips and parties in New York to the Bank of North Dakota and schools. Not paying commissions and properly allocating school land income would eliminate school funding shortages.

Because of increased consolidation of schools and the continuous need to bus children from rural homes to the nearest school, the length of bus rides and the condition of rural infrastructure must be considered by local communities and the state. What can you do to help provide safe transportation for rural students while taking into consideration the amount of time they spend on a school bus?

BAESLER: The need for quality infrastructure is two-fold; to efficiently move products to aid a healthy economy, and to move goods and people safely. Currently 85 percent of our schools are located within two miles of a major road or rail which transports some type of dangerous material. In my role as state superintendent, I will continue to hold the safe transportation of our students as a high priority and encourage the legislature to continue infrastructure investments strongly supporting solutions to local infrastructure needs. In 2011, the legislature established the Strategic Investment and Improvements Fund (SIIF).The SIIF holds the revenue from assets and collections earned from 758,000 sovereign mineral acres and minerals located under navigable rivers and lakes. As a member of the board that manages the SIIF, I will exercise my vote on that board to ensure funds are invested and managed wisely. With that being said about infrastructure, I will not forget my responsibility as state superintendent to collaborate with state and local partners to provide adequate and ongoing safety training annually to all school bus drivers within the state. School bus drivers transport our state’s most precious cargo – our children.

CHIANG: I have helped my schools as a substitute bus driver for the last 20 years. I appreciate this question.

There are two issues concerning busing — within the district and out-of-district busing. As I understand, agreed funds from oil companies to keep roads in repair are not being enforced or collected. As to the in-district routes, there are other options. Some schools could use smaller vehicles for the long runs which would shorten run time or parents could help with carpooling from longer distances to a route stop or school.

The second issue has to do with out-of-district busing.

Parents who wish to have students in a different district should provide their own transportation to an in-district route. This would save districts and students a lot of time and money.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

INITIATED BALLOT MEASURES In the November election, North Dakotans will also be voting on five special measures. Below are the recommendations that support NDFU policy.

Measure No. 1

Legislatively referred, this measure would create a constitutional amendment to require a member of the legislative assembly to be a resident of the district from which selected and would prohibit an individual from being seated in the legislative assembly if the individual does not live in the district from which selected.

NDFU recommendation

4 vote YES

Measure No. 2

This legislatively referred measure would amend the constitution to expand the educational purposes for which the foundation aid stabilization fund may be used. The measure would allow the legislature to use any excess money for education-related purposes when the balance exceeds 15 percent of the general fund appropriation.

Measure No. 3

An initiated measure that would enshrine victims’ rights into the constitution.

Measure No. 4

Creates a state statute that would increase the tax on cigarettes from 44 cents to $2.20 per pack as well as other tobacco products.

It would also create a veterans’ tobacco trust fund.

Measure No. 5

The measure would create an initated state statute to allow the use of medical marijuana.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

4 vote YES 4

No position taken

4

No position taken

4 vote YES October 2016

9

HOW YOUR LEGISLATOR VOTED Here’s how elected officials voted on SB 2351 in 2015 that would have exempted dairy and swine operations from compliance with the state’s Corporate Farming Law, allowing non-family corporations to own farmland.

District 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 13 14 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 19 20 20 21 21 22 22 23 23 24

10 22

Representative Honorable Patrick R. Hatlestad Honorable Gary R. Sukut Honorable Bert Anderson Honorable Robert J. Skarphol Honorable Andrew G. Maragos Honorable Roscoe Streyle Honorable Glen Froseth Honorable Kenton Onstad Honorable Roger Brabandt Honorable Scott Louser Honorable Dick Anderson Honorable Bob Hunskor Honorable Rick C. Becker Honorable Jason Dockter Honorable Jeff Delzer Honorable Vernon Laning Honorable Tracy Boe Honorable Marvin E. Nelson Honorable Chuck Damschen Honorable David Monson Honorable Ron Guggisberg Honorable Kris Wallman Honorable Jessica Haak Honorable Alex Looysen Honorable Kim Koppelman Honorable Christopher D. Olson Honorable Jon O. Nelson Honorable Robin Weisz Honorable Curt Hofstad Honorable Dennis Johnson Honorable Ben Hanson Honorable Ben Koppelman Honorable Mark S. Owens Honorable Mark Sanford Honorable Eliot Glassheim Honorable Marie Strinden Honorable Gary Paur Honorable Wayne Trottier Honorable Richard G. Holman Honorable Gail Mooney Honorable Kathy Hogan Honorable Mary Schneider Honorable Wesley R. Belter Honorable Peter F. Silbernagel Honorable Bill Devlin Honorable Don Vigesaa Honorable Dwight Kiefert

October 2016

Vote Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No No No No No Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes No No No No Yes Yes No No Yes

District 24 25 25 26 26 27 27 28 28 29 29 30 30 31 31 32 32 33 33 34 34 35 35 36 36 37 37 38 38 39 39 40 40 41 41 42 42 43 43 44 44 45 45 46 46 47 47

Representative Honorable Naomi Muscha Honorable Alisa Mitskog Honorable Cynthia Schreiber Beck Honorable Bill Amerman Honorable Jerry Kelsh Honorable Thomas Beadle Honorable Randy Boehning Honorable Mike Brandenburg Honorable William E. Kretschmar Honorable Craig Headland Honorable Chet Pollert Honorable Diane Larson Honorable Mike Nathe Honorable Karen M. Rohr Honorable Jim Schmidt Honorable Mark A. Dosch Honorable Lisa Meier Honorable Gary Kreidt Honorable Jay Seibel Honorable Todd Porter Honorable Nathan Toman Honorable Karen Karls Honorable Bob Martinson Honorable Alan Fehr Honorable Mike Schatz Honorable Mike Lefor Honorable Vicky Steiner Honorable Larry Bellew Honorable Dan Ruby Honorable Keith Kempenich Honorable Denton Zubke Honorable Robert Frantsvog Honorable Matthew M. Klein Honorable Pamela Anderson Honorable Al Carlson Honorable Corey Mock Honorable Kylie Oversen Honorable Rich S. Becker Honorable Lois Delmore Honorable Joshua A. Boschee Honorable Blair Thoreson Honorable Mary C. Johnson Honorable Tom Kading Honorable Kathy Hawken Honorable Jim Kasper Honorable George Keiser Honorable Lawrence R. Klemin

Vote on SB 2351 No No Yes No No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Absent or Not Voting

Yes No Yes No No Yes No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

HOUSE VOTED 56-37 TO PASS SENATE VOTED 27-18 TO PASS

District Senator 1 Honorable Brad Bekkedahl 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47

Honorable David S. Rust

Honorable Ole Larsen Honorable John M. Warner Honorable Randall A. Burckhard Honorable David O'Connell Honorable Nicole Poolman Honorable Howard C. Anderson, Jr. Honorable Richard Marcellais Honorable Joe Miller Honorable Tim Mathern Honorable John Grabinger Honorable Judy Lee Honorable Jerry Klein Honorable Dave Oehlke Honorable Tyler Axness Honorable Ray Holmberg Honorable Connie Triplett Honorable Tom Campbell Honorable Philip M. Murphy Honorable Carolyn C. Nelson Honorable Gary A. Lee Honorable Joan Heckaman Honorable Larry J. Robinson Honorable Larry Luick Honorable Jim Dotzenrod Honorable Jonathan Casper Honorable Robert Erbele Honorable Terry M. Wanzek Honorable Ron Carlisle Honorable Donald Schaible Honorable Dick Dever Honorable Jessica Unruh Honorable Dwight Cook Honorable Erin Oban Honorable Kelly M. Armstrong Honorable Rich Wardner Honorable David Hogue Honorable Bill L. Bowman Honorable Karen K. Krebsbach Honorable Kyle R. Davison Honorable Mac Schneider Honorable Lonnie J. Laffen Honorable Tim Flakoll Honorable Ronald Sorvaag Honorable George Sinner Honorable Ralph Kilzer

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Vote Yes No

Yes No No Absent or Not Voting Yes Yes No Yes No No Yes Yes Yes No Yes No Yes No No Yes No No Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Absent or Not Voting No Yes No Yes

Family farming is the backbone of our state’s economy and our communities.

Family farmers buy local and are part of the cities and towns where they live and work. That’s why on November 8th, it’s important to elect candidates that support North Dakota’s agriculture economy and family farming.

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO ASK CANDIDATES: 4 In the office you’re seeking, how will you work to ensure that agriculture continues to be the backbone of North Dakota’s economy?

4 How did you vote on corporate farming (SB2351)?

4 What are your views on North Dakota Corporate Farming Law?

4 How will you ensure that North Dakota farmland stays in the hands of family farmers?

Look to www.NDFU.org the left to see how your Visit to see representatives voted on SBon how your representatives voted 2351, the bill that would have corporate farming (SB 2351), the bill allowed corporate farming that would have allowed Corporate in North Dakota.

Farming in North Dakota.

And be sure to vote for

And be sure to vote Family Farms Family Farms onfor November 8! on November 8th!

Paid for by the North Dakota Farmers Union

October 2016

11

Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division

PERIODICALS – POSTAGE PAID

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

For more information, email us at info@fumic.com or www.fumic.com