FARME R UNION
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PASSION FOR LOCAL BEEF Group of five start beef processing plant with retail store to serve Edgeley, surrounding area
AUGUST 2022
GET TO KNOW A FARMERS UNION INSURANCE AGENCY
Chris Arnston Agency I was raised on a farm south of Maddock. After high school, I attended the University of Minnesota Crookston and then graduated from NDSU with a degree in ag engineering. I worked as a design engineer for DuraTech Industries in Jamestown for seven years before moving with my family to Maddock in 2011 to work with my dad, Doug, in the agency. Doug retired in 2015 while Jane, my mom, continued to work as a CSR (Customer Service Representative) until December 2018. My wife Brenda and I have three daughters. Keely graduated this spring and will attend the University of Jamestown this fall, Kinsey will be a sophomore, and Kami will be a sixth grader this fall. The things I like the most about my job are the variety and the opportunities to work with so many good people. No two days are the same. We sell and service many different lines of insurance, so I get to work with many different customers and deal with a variety of situations. Good support is essential. The two CSRs in my office, Cindy Odden and Olivia Arnold, keep everything running smoothly. Being from a rural area, agriculture is our bread and butter. Farm and ranch insurance, farm auto, crop, hail, and agribusiness are all very important to our business and they are areas I enjoy working in.
Having grown up in Maddock, I came back with the assumption that I knew everyone. I was wrong. I have had the opportunity to work with, learn from, and get to know a lot of good people over the past 11 years. I spend my free time mostly with my family and running around with our kids’ activities. I enjoy golfing in the summer, pheasant hunting in the fall with my dog Krash and skiing during the winter. I serve on my local township board, Maddock Sports Boosters board, Benson County Farmers Union board, and the Central Plains Rural Water District.
Chris Arnston Agency 105 Central Ave. Maddock ND 58348 PH: (701) 438-2263
UNION FARMER MAGAZINE Volume 69 • Number 8
The UNION FARMER is published monthly by North Dakota Farmers Union at 1415 12th Ave SE, Jamestown, ND 58401. EDITOR: Chris Aarhus 800-366-NDFU caarhus@ndfu.org Annual subscription is $30 with membership. Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, ND. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NDFU • PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402-2136 Copies mailed this issue: 36,459 • USPS 016-211
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President: Mark Watne • Vice President: Bob Kuylen • Secretary: Wes Niederman Treasurer: Ronda Throener • Bob Finken; Jon Iverson; Shane Sickler; Tyler Stafslien; Michelle Ziesch. 2 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
Priorities for the next Farm Bill Writing of the new farm bill is once again upon us, as the current bill expires in 2023. More than ever, the need for a farm bill with responsive programs is essential. We currently have skyrocketing input costs, consumers concerned about food price inflation, supply instability due to the pandemic and a war, and market prices all over the board as speculators try to outguess trends. NDFU, along with many other state Farmers Unions, has worked on National Farmers Union priorities for the upcoming farm bill debate. The following is a summary of those priorities:
FARM PROGRAMS
• Maintain and improve the farm safety net programs in the commodity and crop insurance titles. • Increase loan rates and other price-based triggers to reflect higher commodity prices and input costs. • Consider a shift in structure from revenuebased to commodity-based programs. • Permanent disaster program o Address ongoing challenges created by ad hoc disaster legislation and programs, including long delays in implementation and unfair targeting of support. o Incentivize the use of sustainable/ climate-smart farming practices. o Avoid undermining existing risk management products. o Apply appropriate eligibility and payment caps. o Explore ways for past ad hoc disaster programs to be reflected in the farm bill budget and baseline. • Crop insurance title o Continue current program with additional coverages for perils. o Make risk management products more accessible for specialty crop producers and diverse cropping systems. o Improve Whole Farm Revenue Protection to expand its use and adoption.
COMPETITION
• Advocate for a dedicated competition title. • Advance Fairness for Farmers priorities, including: o Cattle market price discovery and transparency; o Increased enforcement of the Packers & Stockyards Act; o Reinstatement of mandatory country-of origin labeling (COOL); o Support for local and regional food systems that increase competition and resilience. • Reform checkoff programs to be producer controlled and regularly reviewed.
ENERGY TITLE
• Focus on support and expansion of biofuels and renewable energy usage and infrastructure. • Continue to support the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems (including wind and solar) and energy efficiency improvements.
FURTHER CONCERNS
• Recognize the need to increase farm bill funding or baseline. • Urge lawmakers to support a strong nutrition title.
As NDFU works to influence the direction of the farm program, we will be looking for help from our members to push these concepts forward.
GET THE LATEST NDFU.org/emailsignup NDFU.org • August 2022 • 3
Torres-Small visits NDFU USDA undersecretary meets with NDFU members, regional processors to discuss concerns, expansion 4 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne, middle, talks about market concentration in the cattle industry to Xochitl Torres Small, USDA’s undersecretary for rural development, Monday, June 27, at the NDFU state office in Jamestown. At left is Sen. John Hoeven; second from right is USDA Rural Development State Director Erin Hill-Oban; and at right is USDA Farm Service Agency State Director Marcy Svenningsen.
North Dakota Farmers Union members and area processors met with Xochitl Torres Small, USDA’s undersecretary for rural development, to discuss meat processing expansion in the state. Torres Small listened to concerns from regional processors and cattle producers over market concentration, labor shortages, supply chain issues and grant funding. “We’re hoping to support folks to create broader (processing) options for farmers and ranchers in a way that supports the local economy,” Torres Small said. “And we want feedback on how that could best fit with your operations.” USDA is investing $1 billion to promote competition and resilience in meat supply chains. The assistance includes gap funding for establishment and expansion of independent processors, and technical assistance and workforce development programs. During the meeting, NDFU, cattle producers and independent processors underscored the need for that support and provided feedback on the initiative.
“Developing more local and regional processing facilities and stronger supply chains is a win for farmers, ranchers and consumers,” said NDFU President Mark Watne. “We need more opportunities and options to market our products especially in ag sectors that are heavily concentrated like the meatpacking industry. Increasing processing in North Dakota will give farmers and ranchers more opportunities to add value to livestock in their own operation.” Torres Small’s visit to North Dakota is her first since her confirmation by the U.S. Senate in October 2021. Joining Torres Small and Watne were Sen. John Hoeven, USDA Rural Development State Director Erin Hill-Oban and USDA Farm Service Agency State Director Marcy Svenningsen. To draw attention to market concentration and the need for fair markets in agriculture, Farmers Union launched a nationwide campaign last September called “Fairness for Farmers.” Learn more at #FairnessForFarmers or ndfu.org. NDFU.org • August 2022 • 5
REAP supports ag producers, rural small businesses BY ERIN OBAN USDA Rural Development State Director
Photos courtesy USDA RD
6 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
Renewable energy and rural America. It may seem to some that these two terms are completely incompatible. In reality, however, especially for those of us living here in the Upper Great Plains, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Scattered amidst oil and gas development in western and coal mining in central North Dakota are growing numbers of wind and solar projects, some, large farms spanning hundreds of acres, and others, small, modest projects, conspicuously hidden on quonset roofs of OBAN farmsteads or near stock tanks in pastures. Whatever the reason, whether to make an operation more efficient, to diversify the grid (and your revenue stream), or to reduce our collective impact on the environment, USDA Rural Development provides programming that makes investing in these projects more affordable for
rural small businesses and ag producers. The Rural Energy for America Program, commonly referred to as REAP, provides financing as loans and grants to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems, energy-efficiency improvements, and upgrades for ag production and processing. As inflation, price increases, workforce shortages, and global supply chain issues have especially impacted our most rural communities, programs like REAP can help offset those pressures and provide long-term benefits like reducing your energy bill and lowering your inputs. Jamie Zins is a woodworker and general contractor east of Bismarck in tiny McKenzie. Interested in cutting down on his electric bill and, hopefully, investing some savings back into his business, Jamie explored the possibility of installing solar panels on his shop. After a little research and reaching out to work with USDA Rural Development, he successfully applied for REAP to finance the project. Within the first month of his solar panels’ operation, Jamie CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
NDFU.org • August 2022 • 7
immediately noticed the savings and doesn’t hesitate to credit the REAP grant he received from USDA Rural Development as a motivator for making his decision. Jamie’s example is not an isolated one. Other North Dakotans across the state have accessed REAP to improve their operations, too. Pro IT, LLC used a $14,000 grant to install a solar array. Their 20-kW system will save the computer support shop in Williston over $1,100 a year, enough to offset rising costs they’re paying for electricity. In December 2021, USDA Rural Development announced grant funding to eight separate North Dakota projects, ranging from solar array installations like those mentioned to grain dryer replacements and HVAC system upgrades. Mitchell Farms near Erie estimates that their new, more efficient grain dryer will save them nearly $50,000 a year. Not only will
8 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
that project reduce their annual expenses, but it also replaces 1.5 million kWh of power, enough to power 141 homes! Farmers and ranchers have long been some of the most conscious caregivers of our land, water and air. Indeed, the generations that will follow and your very own livelihood depend on it. USDA Rural Development programs like REAP help put projects within reach that save money in the long run and make us better stewards of the world around us. It’s a win-win! If you’re looking for more information about or are ready to apply for REAP, our team is here and available to assist! Visit our website at https://www.rd.usda.gov/ programs-services/energy-programs/ruralenergy-america-program-renewable-energysystems-energy-efficiency-improvementguaranteed-loans or contact Grady Borth at (701) 530-2047 or grady.borth@usda.gov.
Together, America Prospers
Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Loan guarantees for this program are streamlined under the OneRD Guarantee Loan Initiative
What does this program do? The program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing.
Who may apply How we get program? started? fordothis Applications for this program are • Agricultural producers withoffice. accepted year-round at your local at least 50 percent of their gross incomequestions? coming from Who can answer agricultural operations. Contact your State Rural Development Energy Coordinator. • Small businesses in eligible rural areas. What law governs this program?
Who may qualify for loan guarantees? Eligible borrowers are: • Rural small businesses. • Agricultural producers. Additional entities may be eligible for other types of loan guarantees under the OneRD Guarantee Loan Initiative. What are the borrowing restrictions for loan guarantees? • Individual borrowers must be citizens of the United States or reside in the U.S. after being legally admitted for permanent residence. • Private-entity borrowers must demonstrate that loan funds will remain in the U.S.
• Small and large solar generation. • Ocean (tidal, current, thermal) generation. Funds may also be used for the purchase, installation and construction of energy efficiency improvements, such as: • High efficiency heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC). • Insulation. • Lighting. • Cooling or refrigeration units. • Doors and windows. • Electric, solar or gravity pumps for sprinkler pivots. • Switching from a diesel to electric irrigation motor.
OneRD Guarantee Loan Initiative: • Replacement of energy-inefficient equipment. WhatEnergy is an eligible area? Rural for America Program (REAP) • Businesses must be in located Agricultural producers may also use Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency in rural areas with populations of 50,000 residents or less. • Check eligible business addresses. • Agricultural producers may be in rural or non-rural areas. How may the funds be used? Funds may be used for renewable energy systems, such as:
guaranteed loan funds to install energy efficient equipment and systems for agricultural production or processing. What funding is available? • Loan guarantees on loans up to 75 percent of total eligible project costs.
OneRD • Grants forGuarantee up to 25 percentLoan of total Initiative
eligible projectfor costs. Rural Energy America Program (RE Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency • Combined grant and loan guarantee
•NOTE: Grants Agricultural – Code of Federal producers and Regulation, 7 CFRmust 4280, Subpart small businesses have NO B.
• Biomass (for example: biodiesel and ethanol, anaerobic digesters, and How we get started? soliddo fuels).
federal •outstanding Guaranteeddelinquent Loans – Code of taxes, debt, judgment or debarment. Federal Regulation, 7 CFR 5001.
program are •Applications Geothermalfor forthis electric generation or accepted year-round at your local office. direct use.
What is the maximum amount of a loan guarantee?
• This program is authorized by Title IX of the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, (2018 Farm Bill).
• Hydropower below 30 megawatts. Who can answer questions? • Hydrogen. Contact your State Rural Development • Small and large wind generation. Energy Coordinator.
The loan guarantee percentage is published annually in a Federal Register notice.
Why does USDA Rural Development do this? This program helps increase American energy independence by increasing the private sector supply of renewable energy and decreasing the demand for energy through energy efficiency improvements. Over time, these investments can also help lower the cost of energy for small businesses and agricultural producers.
funding up to 75 percent of total eligible project costs.
What law governs this program?
How do we get started?
• Grants – Code of Federal Regulation, 7 CFR 4280, Subpart B.
Applications for this program are accepted year-round at your local office.
• Guaranteed Loans – Code of Federal Regulation, 7 CFR 5001.
Who can answer questions?
• This program is authorized by Title IX of the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, (2018 Farm Bill). Why does USDA Rural Development do this? This program helps increase American energy independence by increasing
Contact your State Rural Development Energy Coordinator. What law governs this program? • Grants – Code of Federal Regulation, 7 CFR 4280, Subpart B. • GuaranteedNDFU.org Loans – Code of 2022 • 9 • August Federal Regulation, 7 CFR 5001.
On
Rur Ren
Asunta Thompson, an associate professor of plant science and potato breeder for North Dakota State University, developed the Dakota Russet, which will be used for McDonald’s fries. 10 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
DAKOTA RUSSET NDSU professor develops potato variety approved for McDonald’s world-famous fries
T
he most recent potato variety to join the list of approved McDonald’s potato varieties is the Dakota Russet, developed at North Dakota State University by Asunta Thompson, associate professor of plant science and potato breeder. The Dakota Russet has uniform, blocky tubers, creamy white flesh and golden russet skin that is well suited for fry applications. The variety produces low sugars, which results in consistent French fry color and less undesired defects like dark ends. Improved fry texture consistency can be attributed to the potatoes’ high specific gravity and consistent internal dry matter distribution (solids). “This is a dream come true,” Thompson said. “Having our russet accepted by McDonald’s for their French fries is the gold standard we all strive for. Cultivar development takes a team and this difficult achievement would not have been possible without support from the NDSU potato improvement team, potato farmers and agriculture partners. My goal since returning to NDSU in 2001 was to identify superior cultivars across market types. I focused on earlier maturity which would allow greater opportunity for economic and environmental sustainability for our farmers, while helping address the global challenge of feeding the world.” The cross (traditional hybridization) was made in 1999 and Thompson selected the seedling in the single-hill nursery in fall 2001. The variety was officially named and released in 2012. The approval process for the Dakota Russet to be accepted by McDonald’s was completed in March 2022. The Dakota Russet is one of eight varieties accepted in North America. The most recent additions to the McDonald’s North American varieties were in 2016. “Our world-famous fries always start with our potatoes. We couldn’t be more excited to introduce
Dakota Russet to our quality group of potato varieties used to produce them,” said Daniel Roche, McDonald’s global quality system manager of agricultural products. “We spend years testing new potato varieties before they are introduced to our suppliers and restaurants – including rigorous testing for quality, sensory and consumer validation – to ensure all the potatoes we use meet our high standards. The Dakota Russet has delivered a great appearance, flavor and texture – producing the same great taste our customers love.” The Dakota Russet was developed with the needs of Midwest farmers in mind, producing consistently high yields and fitting the shorter growing season with its medium maturity. The variety also thrives in a wide range of climatic conditions. It is extremely resilient, demonstrating resistance to several of the common diseases typically present in potatoes. “Based on national testing and grower evaluation, the Dakota Russet is widely adapted across North America,” said Carl Hoverson of Hoverson Farms, and partner with Ron Offutt and R.D. Offutt Farms. “It also thrives during a shorter growing season, which is important with the variable weather conditions we experience here in the Midwest. With this variety, we are able to consistently obtain an excellent fry quality.” The highly successful traits of this variety help to improve agronomic sustainability by producing more quality potatoes per acre. The Dakota Russet has begun rolling out to McDonald’s suppliers, where they are peeled, cut and prepared for restaurants to turn into the same hot, crispy fries McDonald’s customers love. As a student-focused, land-grant, research institution, we serve our citizens. Article and photo courtesy of NDSU Ag Communications NDFU.org • August 2022 • 11
NDFU holds Farm Bill meetings around the state BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU
Bryan Schaffer of Fargo would like to see the 2023 Farm Bill be less of a guessing game when it’s time for producers to choose between Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) for their crops. “It felt like I was being played by the government,” Schaffer said. “I’m hoping the next 12 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
Farm Bill makes a little more sense, because I don’t like having to decide between ARC and PLC.” Schaffer made his voice known at one of seven meetings held around the state by North Dakota Farmers Union. Meetings took place in each of NDFU’s seven districts, and they were hosted by that district’s representative on NDFU’s statewide Farm Bill Working Group. In this case, Mike
TOP: NDFU Government Relations Director Matt Perdue talks about the Farm Bill during the District 2 meeting in Rugby. LEFT: John Kelly of Pekin and Lori Carlson of Jamestown watch NDFU’s presentation on the Farm Bill during the District 6 meeting at the NDFU state office in Jamestown.
Schlosser of Edgeley hosted the event. Schaffer came to the District 6 meeting held at the state office in Jamestown. “I got a letter that said (NDFU) is looking for opinions, and I’ve got a lot of them,” Schaffer joked. “I wanted to learn more about the Farm Bill and how it works, and what’s all affected by it. Not just corn and soybeans, but also livestock and cotton and how it all works together.” Schaffer lives in Fargo, but took over his family’s operation near Edgeley. He farms corn, soybeans and wheat. He called the decision between ARC and PLC “a shell game” for farmers. “They say farmers with corn should choose this one, and farmers with wheat should choose the other one,” Schaffer said. “But you have no idea what’s gonna happen in the future.” Tyler Neubauer has a diversified farm near Bottineau, where he raises barley, durum, spring wheat, canola, soybeans, and sometimes sunflowers and flax. He attended the District 2 meeting in Rugby, hosted by David Teigen. “I’m just trying to learn as much about the Farm Bill as I can so I can make the right decisions,” he
said. “It’s important to hear what ideas everyone has in the Farm Bill and how it can benefit everyone. It’s a kickstand for all farmers and ranchers.” The meetings featured a presentation from NDFU Government Relations Director Matt Perdue, who went over the details of how a Farm Bill comes together and where money is specifically allocated. Perdue and each district’s Farm Bill Working Group representative then posed questions to farmers and ranchers to gauge their feelings on the current Farm Bill and what they want from the next one. Schaffer said he wanted to make sure NDFU had his input. “There aren’t a lot of farmers left, and not everyone has time to come and do stuff like this,” he said. “I wanted to come out and share my thoughts on the next Farm Bill.” NDFU shares its members’ thoughts and concerns on the Farm Bill with North Dakota’s congressional delegation with hopes that solutions can be found by September 2023 when the bill is scheduled to be finished. Each Farm Bill lasts five years. NDFU.org • August 2022 • 13
NFU submits testimony on fuel prices On July 13, the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy held a hearing on “Pathways to Lower Energy Prices.” National Farmers Union President Rob Larew expressed strong support for the promotion of renewable fuels, including mid-level ethanol blends, as an important opportunity to address transportation fuel costs. Larew’s testimony emphasized the economic and environmental benefits of biofuels and strengthening enforcement of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS): “Domestic utilization of crops for biofuel production helps stabilize and support prices while promoting sound and sustainable agricultural practices, reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and enhancing the nation’s energy independence and security. “NFU has urged the promotion of higher blends of ethanol, such as mid-level blends of E20-E40, which are readily available and the most costeffective means to move toward higher octane, low-carbon fuels — a widely supported goal. Additionally, ethanol reduces prices at the pump for consumers. “According to e85prices.com, the average price of E10 ($4.81) is $0.59 less than the average price of gasoline with no ethanol ($5.40). The average price decreases by another $0.43 per gallon when increasing the ethanol blend to E15 ($4.38). Midlevel ethanol blends can provide even greater savings. For example, a station in Wisconsin reported E20 at $3.65 per gallon and E30 at $3.90 per gallon. This can be compared to E10 at $4.40 and E15 at $4.30 at that same station. At other stations listed, prices for E20 and E30 were reported at prices below E10/gasoline by as much as $0.80.” Larew also testified that mid-level ethanol production needs more support from Congress, referencing bipartisan legislation pending before the House, particularly the Next Generation Fuels Act (H.R. 5089). This legislation will improve transportation fuel quality and incentivize vehicle technologies that simultaneously reduce GHG emissions and increase fuel economy. Making mid-level ethanol blends available will move this country toward meeting its long-term goals and will lead to American energy independence. 14 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
NFU TO MEET WITH VILSACK
In late June, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and a group of senior USDA officials met with a delegation of Farmers Union state division and organizational leaders. The meeting was convened to discuss how Farmers Union and USDA can continue to work together for Fairness for Farmers and encourage thriving rural economies. The meeting also focused on how Farmers Union can play a role in the secretary’s vision for a food system transformation, particularly how the investments made this year can have a lasting impact. Vilsack spoke about this goal during an event June 1 that unveiled the framework, saying “we need to be able to balance efficiency with resiliency.” On July 7, USDA hosted a webinar for Farmers Union state divisions detailing all the opportunities that are available through grants and partnerships connected to the food system transformation and related topics. Over a hundred Farmers Union member-leaders and staff participated in a briefing by USDA that highlighted programs and grants available through USDA’s efforts to transform the food system. USDA will continue to provide NFU and Farmers Union members with helpful updates about these programs, eligibility and deadlines. This direct engagement with senior staff at USDA is a great asset to our members and helps Farmers Union learn about new opportunities, both for our farming operations and our communities.
NFU HOSTS DAIRY FLY-IN
From July 13-15, NFU hosted 14 dairy farmers and advocates for a fly-in organized by Wisconsin Farmers Union and Dairy Together. Founded in 2018, Dairy Together is a farmer-led, grassroots effort to improve the economic viability of family dairy farms. Farmers Union members from several states (Wisconsin, Minnesota, Pennsylvania and Maine), along with members of other farm and dairy groups, flew to Washington to connect and meet with members of Congress to push for dairy policy reform that will foster thriving rural communities and dairy farms, with a focus on the upcoming farm bill. The Dairy Together fly-in participants called
Monopolies in the Agriculture Industry Driving up consumer prices and driving down revenue for farmers and ranchers What happens when multinational corporations in the agricultural industry use their size, wealth and power to determine the price and selection on our grocery shelves?
Farmers, ranchers, consumers and rural communities suffer.
DID YOU KNOW? The four largest meatpackers control 54% of U.S. poultry processing, 65% of U.S. pork processing and 85% of beef packing. The farmer’s share of every dollar consumers spend on food has fallen from 50% in 1952 to less than 16% today. Four corporations account for at least 75% of sales of most common grocery items.
70 % of our nation’s produce is grown in just three states.
50% of agriculture equipment is made by only two manufacturers.
President Biden and Congress must act and push back against
on Congress to support the Dairy Revitalization Farmers Union and Wisconsin Farm Bureau monopolies and abuse of market powerFederation in agriculture. Plan, which would establish a mandatory program joined forces to connect with for managed growth based on market demand Wisconsin dairy farmers in Abbotsford, Cashton and price stability in the 2023 Farm Bill. This and Chippewa Falls, with over 200 farmers program should increase farmer profitability by attending a series of meetings focused on the elevating milk prices, preventing overproduction Dairy Revitalization Plan. Another meeting was and reducing milk price volatility. A full video held in Michigan in early July. NFU and Dairy and written analysis of the plan, analyzed by Together are poised to advocate for policy reforms dairy researchers at the University of Wisconsin – that rescue America’s dairy producers and bring Madison, can be found at dairytogether.com. more opportunities for family dairy operations to In March 2022, local chapters from Wisconsin thrive. NDFU.org • August 2022 • 15
COVER PHOTO: Tim Moch of Edgeley is one of five in the area who came together to start the Butcher’s Edge, a new beef processing plant and butcher shop in Edgeley.
a passion for local beef Group of five committed to serving community with the Butcher’s Edge Garrit Irey leans inside the doorway of his holding pen, focused on garage doors that bookend the receiving area of The Butcher’s Edge in Edgeley. It’s literally a drive-through for cattle producers. “Every rancher that has dropped cattle off to this point has commented how easy this is,” he said. It’s like they thought of everything. It was just over a year ago five men got together — Irey, Jay Mathern, Grant Mathern, Tim Mock and Mike Schlosser — and secured financing for a new facility that could process 80 animals a month. They started the construction process July 15, 2021, worked through the winter and eventually processed their first animal at the end of May 2022. Not bad for what started as a simple conversation three years ago. “We were talking about how hard it is to get animals in (to be processed),” he said.
“And Tim was doing quite a lot out of his place for friends and family with his own animals.” As market concentration has put a stranglehold on meat and poultry processing nationwide leading to higher prices in the grocery store, more emphasis is being placed on regional processing businesses like The Butcher’s Edge. Already a custom-exempt facility in which it can process animals for ranchers, the business is headed toward becoming a state-inspected facility by “late summer.” That would allow ranchers who get their animals processed there to sell their own beef. More importantly, it means The Butcher’s Edge can offer a retail shop for consumers with fresh cuts and specialized products. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU
“The retail aspect drove it more than anything,” said Irey, who is also the Farmers Union Insurance agent in Edgeley. “We wanted to have a place where people could buy good, local meat. We all have a passion for it. We want people to know where their beef is coming from and be proud of it. We don’t want to bring in boxed beef from some truck out of San Francisco. We truly believe in having product (sourced) from within 60 miles of here to sell to our customers.” That passion was evident from the beginning. Irey said they toured a dozen plants throughout the Midwest, and a few of them even took a meat science course in Kansas City. “We did a lot of homework,” he said. “We toured plants and heard ideas from guys who said that if they could redo it, they would change this or do this different. And we wanted to make this as automated as possible, so this is the end result of those visits and experiences.” With help from the rural development office at the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric 18 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
Cooperatives, the business received an Ag Products Utilization Commission (APUC) grant from the North Dakota Department of Agriculture. They used those funds to complete a feasibility study. “It was very comprehensive,” he said. “They plugged in our model, with average wait times, prices, and it came back positive that we could cash flow if we hit a certain number of cattle each week.” They received financing with the help of an interest buydown from the Bank of North Dakota. From there, construction started, and the five men haven’t looked back. Not that they would have the time to do that anyway. Building a meat processing plant takes time. “We started building and framing mid-to-late October (after the concrete was poured),” Irey said. “We basically spent late fall and all winter and spring in here. It felt like every night and weekend.” They didn’t start from scratch, though. They
ABOVE: The receiving area features a drive-through chute for producers to unload their cattle for dropoff. INSET: Garitt Irey explains where two commercial smokers will go. Butcher’s Edge will eventually offer fresh meat in a retail setting including smoked meats.
chose to renovate an abandoned building on the west side of Highway 281.” “This building just sat here,” Irey said. “We were able to purchase it for a reasonable price, and it’s right off 281. That was a huge selling point. We were excited to be able to repurpose a community building.” Irey said the facility is built to process 20 animals a week but could handle 25 in the future,
if everything falls into place. It also includes a smokehouse where the group hopes to put two commercial smokers to sell smoked meats in the retail shop. “We want to do all of the value-added projects,” he said. “We want to be here for the long haul. So far, everything’s been positive. We have a social media presence on Facebook, and we have immediate openings right now.” NDFU.org • August 2022 • 19
youth video
CONTEST NDFU is holding a video contest for its members! Winning videos will be shown at the state convention in December!
Video should be: • 30-60 seconds • Educational/informative • Lighthearted • Dealing with a current issue facing ag
Requirements • Age 22 and under • Must be NDFU member • Submission deadline Sept. 30
6 • July 2022 • Union Farmer
GRAND PRIZE IS
$1000! • • • •
Second — $750 Third — $500 Fourth — $250 Fifth — $100
Contact Brittany Rodin at brodin@ndfu.org to set up video submission. Contest rules and information available at ndfu.org/videocontest
NDFU.org • July 2022 • 7
Making memories at
NDFU Camp
22 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
NDFU.org • August 2022 • 23
What’s happening around the state
USDA’s Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux responds to a question during a roundtable discussion on emergency and livestock relief programs. The Farmers Union-sponsored event was held Tuesday, June 28, near Durbin at the farm of Cass County Farmers Union President John Buchholz. Sitting beside Ducheneaux are FSA State Director Marcy Svenningsen, Under Secretary of Agriculture for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie, and NDFU Board of Directors Bob Finken, Shelly Ziesch and Ronda Throener (not pictured).
TOP: Stark County Farmers Union held a membership picnic. RIGHT: Pembina County Farmers Union held a Farmer’s Share meal in Pembina.
24 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
County events calendar AUG. 1
Wells County Senior EPIC Event Notes: Registration deadline has passed. Bowman/Slope County EPIC Event Notes: Registration deadline has passed. Ramsey County Farmers Union President Adam Leiphon, left, of Crary watches a presentation with District 4 Director Shane Sickler of Gladstone during the July meeting of the NDFU Board of Governors at the state office in Jamestown.
AUG. 2
Renville County EPIC Event Notes: Park Gazebo at Mouse River Park, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Lunch provided. Please dress comfortably for weather and wear shoes for running/hiking. Water activities included. Please bring swimsuit, life jacket, swim shoes, towel, sunscreen and bug spray. Games/activities for grades K-8. Contact Thurstan Johnson for more information at 701-833-3693.
AUG. 3
Wells County Splash Bash & Free Feed Notes: Fessenden City Park and Pool, 5-7 p.m.
AUG. 5
Sheridan County EPIC event Notes: Hoffer Lake 4-H building for K-12, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
AUG. 6
Sioux/Morton County Fair ice cream social Notes: New Salem Burke County Farmers Union held an EPIC event at the Burke County Fair.
AUG. 8
Wells County Junior EPIC Event Notes: For junior youth completing grades 1-6. NDFU bus leaving Fessenden Cenex at 7 a.m. and returning at 7:30 p.m. Contact Michelle (701-269-0277) to reserve transportation.
AUG. 17
Sargent/Ransom County Redhawks game NOTE: Registration deadline has passed.
AUG. 18
Sargent/Ransom County Junior EPIC event NOTE: Redhawks game in Fargo. Registration deadline has passed.
SEPT. 1
First day for county conventions
SEPT. 11-14
NFU Fly-in, Washington, D.C.
DEC. 9-10 Weston Sheldon poses with his finished project at a Williams County Farmers Union EPIC engineering event.
NDFU State Convention, Bismarck
NDFU.org • August 2022 • 25
Our Fam Book the third children’s book from North Dakota Farmers Union Sullivan Our Family Farm • Cows on the Mooove!
$16.95 plus tax
NDFU
akota Farmers Union Foundation
It’s the end of calving season and it’s time to move the herd! But before that, Daisy and her calf face an unexpected danger. Read about how Daisy protects her calf and joins the herd in “Cows on the MOOOVE!”
26 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
mily mil y Farm Series Don’t forget! You can get all three books for one great price!
Sullivan Our Family Farm • Cows on the Mooove!
$16.95 ISBN 978-0-578-91271-4
51695>
NDFU
9 780578 912714
© North Dakota Farmers Union Foundation
GET 3 BOOKS FOR $40 + tax
NOTE: only ONE “Cows on the mooove!” book is included in $40 deal
visit ndfu.org to purchase your books online or call the state office at 1-800-366-6338
NDFU.org • August 2022 • 27
FUI NIGHT AT THE BISMARCK LARKS
28 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
On July 13, the Bismarck Larks baseball team held Farmers Union Insurance night for food, drinks and comradery. Everyone, including those in the Mandan office and agents from the surrounding area, gathered with their loved ones to enjoy the sun and the baseball game. Even though the Larks lost a hard-fought game to the Mankato MoonDogs, the night was a win!
NDFU.org • August 2022 • 29
CLASSIFIEDS
Ads must be submitted through the online form at www.ndfu.org. Click “Classifieds” at the very bottom of ndfu.org and fill out the online form. Ads must be re-submitted each month. No exceptions! Deadline is the 15th of every month. Limit 75 words. MEMBERSHIP DUES MUST BE CURRENT!
FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE MOTOR, 10 hp Briggs and Stratton, like new. 701-321-2275, Frank Wangler, Kintyre. 4430 John Deere tractor; 4020 JD tractor with 148 loader attached; New Holland 1432 binder; 7090 New Holland baler; Please call to come and look at equipment and make an offer. 701-633-5461, Daniel Pease, Wheatland. FREE GRAIN BINS, two older 1100 bushel steel grain bins. 218-684-0483, Chuck Knudson, Arvilla. MOWERS, two 3-pt mowers, 5 ft, in good working condition. Can send pictures. 605530-2296, Vern Snow, Tolstoy, SD. 1959 DODGE D-500, overhauled 361 engine, runs good, 300 bushel all steel grain box, good tires, $1200. 701-3916865, Ron Gessele, Bismarck. 1956 CHEVY 3100, short bed, small window, 327 ci, 3 on the tree with overdrive, located in Calif. $12,000; 1965 Chevy C10, long bed, 283 ci, 4 speed located in ND. $10,000. 707-425-7315, Vernon Buchmann, Fairfield, Calif. 11’ BIN SWEEP, 1 hp electric motor, good condition. Asking $100. Also selling a set of rear tractor tire chains, used one season. Approx. 11’ long and 30” wide, like new. Asking $150. 701-597-3107, Ken Koch, Shields. 15-30 MCCORMICK TRACTOR, new tire LT245-75R-Load Range E., 2 new P23570R-15. One David Bradley metal grain box, like new. 2 pair of cowboy boots, size 6 ½ to small, like new $40. 1905 JD Metal corn sheller, 4-wheel steel running gear, 1 covered wagon running gear, saddle and 2 bridles. Email: larryn@westriv.com. 701548-8020, Larry Nagel, Shields. 1960 IH TRUCK, 2-ton, hoist, runs nice, recent shop tune-up, $2500 or best offer; Super “M” Farmall tractor with dual 345 loader. Always inside, make offer. Good for collector or hobbyist. Can text pictures. 701-655-3588, Ron Pishtek, Brocket. CHISEL PLOW, John Deere 16 ft 100, $500; 40 ft Melroe harrow, $500; JD running gear, $100. Located in Makota area. 701-852-1150, Arthur Oen, Minot.
7720 JD COMBINE w/ straight header and 14’ JD pickup w/new belts and teeth. All in real good condition. Many new parts. Not used much the last 10 years. 41’ JD 1600 Chisel plow; 42’ JD 1000 cultivator; 24’ JD 100 chisel plow, all 3 have Degelman drag attached in good condition. 701-482-7767, Gary Knudtson, Donnybrook. CULTIVATOR, used Koehn 8 row crop cultivator, Danish tines, depth wheels, 30” rows adjustable, 3 pt. hitch, end sway disks, stand, extra tines available, $300 OBO. 701-659-8238, Glen Nagel, Jamestown. 1939 INTERNATIONAL H, converted to 12 volt system, narrow front, good tires, new rear engine seal, new exhaust manifold, with Woods L306 6 ft belly mower. 701326-4180, Ron Haugen, Aneta. 1982 400 VERSATILE SWATHER, 18 foot, good running condition, stored inside, a new canvas to go with it. Don’t use it anymore; John Deere 7700 Hydrostatic Drive combine with 404 turbo engine, 145 HP, size 23.1-26 drive tires. Stored inside, 2086 original engine and separator hours, last used 2 years ago. 701-597-3525, Scott Nelson, Solen. ROCKET DRYING SYSTEM, 6-ft, for 3,000 bushel bin. Great condition. 701771-8653, Kenny Heilman, Rugby. 930 CASE DIESEL TRACTOR, 3 pt. power steering, 2 hydr., 8 SP transmission, duals; 400 Versatile 18 ft swather, cab and cooler; 4 row corn cultivator with rolling shields, 3pt; 1400 bu. Colombian grain bin. 701483-4825, Richard Jablonsky, Dickinson. BALER, John Deere 535 twine round baler; New Holland 275 square baler; IH 1086 tractor with IH 2350 loader; IH 914 Pull-type combine (excellent condition). All equipment in good working condition and stored inside. Reasonable offers considered. Delivery options available. 701-741-0286, Todd Knudson, Dahlen. NITROLATOR, John Blue anhydrous nitrolator w/hyd shut off & hoses; old front tine rototiller; combine pickup guards/ lifters; Simer water pump; used Case IH 8230 feeder chain; farm scale/steel wheels; Used 16” JD cultivator sweeps & spikes; Used Bourgault knock on cultivator sweeps & spikes; wooden dog house on skids; 3 steel bins on cones w/aeration fans. 701-629-9003, Doug Halden, Stanley. 1100 IH MOWER, reconditioned field ready, $3700; 8 wheel rake, new rake wheels, new paint field ready $1900; Double 9 rouse mower New Holland heads reconditioned $8900; New Holland 273 square baler ready to go $3000; Have many new parts, and massey disk bine, 9 ft. mower, can deliver any of these items. 701-400-5742, Gerald Miller, Mandan.
WANTED HARROW, Summers drag with auto fold, 70 ft or so with a five-bar harrow; Tripleaxel grain truck, like a year 2000 or newer. 701-771-8653, Kenny Heilman, Rugby. TRACTORS, IH 806 on up; JDs 5010, 5020, 6030; MM 950s on up. Olivers 1964 on up. AC 200, 210, 220, D-19, others. Will buy running or not. 701-628-2130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley.
30 • August 2022 • Union Farmer
FENCE HELP, want to hire somebody to build or help build a 3-barb wire fence with steel posts immediately. Email: larryn@ westriv.com. 701-548-8020, Larry Nagel, Shields. CAB, John Deere – Cozy or Curtis cab all metal and glass cab. Would fit a JD 400 garden tractor. Good to fair condition. 701527-8949, Miles Bosch, Bismarck.
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE TELEPHONE BOOTH, 1950s style, traffic signal light dual on a stand Crouse brand nice, Pennzoil cast iron lollipop base. 701220-5746, Val Ganje, Bismarck. LUND BOAT, 14 ft with floor in it, 15 hp motor, electric start, with heavy duty trailer with spare tire. Stored inside, very nice. 701-246-3469/701-720-1483, Vernon Hochstetler, Rolette. HARLEY DAVIDSON; 1989 Heritage Softail, lots of extra chrome/accessories, one owner; Admiral Blue Zip Sled, a water toy to pull behind a boat, 1970s era, Capri brand Zip water toy, late 1960s era; Dell all-in-one printer. 701-263-1206, Lathan Romsos, Bottineau. CAMPER, nice 28 ft. 2009 Starcraft Starstream bumper pull camper with large slide out. Grey in color with earth tones inside. Everything works. Always shedded when not in use. No longer use. New tires, new mattress, electric jack, equalizer hitch. Clean title. $18,000. 701-720-1191, Clifton Peterson, Ruso. FISHING MOTOR, electric, 10 hp; Lincoln welder 220 volt, shop lift. Allis Chalmers 6 ft mower w/ PTO. 701-270-0184, Harold Severson, Lakota. MEASURING WHEEL, 7 ft, $20; Eagle depth finder with transducer and wiring, $10. 701-840-1094, Brett Kapaun, Tower City. 1989 19’ ALUMACRAFT BOAT with 9.9 HP Suzuki motor and Shore Liner boat trailer with rollers. Leave message. 701-9255821, James Kimball, Noonan.
WANTED OLD STUFF, tractor signs, gas station signs, ND license plates car or motorcycle. 1940s embossed Indian Head road signs. Crocks, jugs with advertising small town store names on them. ND metal tokens or anything else old and interesting, like gas pumps, animal traps, advertising thermometers or clocks. 701-220-5746, Val Ganje, Bismarck. PRAIRIE DOG HUNTERS to come & hunt on my land. Make reservations now. Email: larryn@westriv.com. 701-548-8020, Larry Nagel, Shields GOOD, USED VEHICLE, mid-size for granddaughter. Prefer JEEP, something reliable. 701-400-5742, Gerald Miller, Mandan.
Save at local restaurants and retailers, and additional 1,000+ popular online stores, including:
NDFU.org • August 2022 • 31
Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division
PERIODICALS – POSTAGE PAID
1415 12th Ave SE PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402
Collette Tours Presents
Christmas on the Danube Nov. 27 - Dec. 5, 2022
Trip powered by Farmers Union Travel
Take a timeless trip down the Danube and experience holiday cheer in Vienna, Passau, Regensburg, Nuremberg and more. Go to gateway.gocollette.com/link/1086453 for trip details. This is a travel opportunity offered through Farmers Union Insurance.