FARMER UNION
www.ndfu.org
'EPIC' DEVOTION
Hettinger County's Nadvornik celebrates 45-plus years as Farmers Union youth director
FEBRUARY 2021
GET TO KNOW A FARMERS UNION INSURANCE AGENCY
Ressler-Sipma-Beuchler Agency I started with Farmers Union Insurance on Nov. 1, 2003. Born and raised in Bismarck, I entered active duty Air Force after high school where I was a weapons specialist on F-16s at Mountain Home, Idaho. Upon returning, I moved back to Bismarck and met my wife Kim. We have two children: Sidney Josh Ressler (14) and Connor (11). We were both nervous but excited when the opportunity came to move to Minot and take over the agency. Since then, Minot has become home. Kim is a teacher with Minot Public Schools. The best part of my job is helping people understand policies and coverages. As an agent, it is my duty to inform the customer of the risks associated with their insurance needs and to help them pick the best coverages to cover that risk at a price that is affordable. I have been involved with many groups over the years. Most notably, the Magic City Lions Club, Souris Valley United Way, Roosevelt Park Zoo and was a founding board member of the new Minot Country Club. I love volunteering. My dad always said you can't complain if you're not willing to put the time in to help fix it.
I’ve been an agent with Farmers Union for more than seven years, joining the agency in September 2013. My wife Keri is the owner/ operator of Sticks and Stones by Keri. Together, we have two children: Maren (21) and Jaxson (14). Originally from Bowman, I’ve lived in Minot since 1997, attending Minot Shaun Sipma State University where I played baseball for two years and earned a degree. Eventually, I worked for KXMC as a reporter/anchor. In 2011, my home was destroyed in a flood which I rebuilt (with some help from family and a few friends) while being displaced for more than three years. It was the flood that started me down the path to becoming an insurance agent. I truly enjoy being a trusted professional helping people protect life, health and property. Being an agent also allows me to give back to the community, the region and beyond. I have volunteered with Farm Rescue since 2006. I currently serve as a board member. I also stepped into a larger role in Minot being elected to the city council in 2016 and then mayor in 2018. The RSB Agency has donated to numerous fundraisers for different nonprofits and capital campaigns.
Resser/Sipma/Beuchler Agency 300 3 Ave. SW, Suite C Minot ND 58701 PH: (701) 852-3116
UNION FARMER MAGAZINE Volume 68 • Number 2
The UNION FARMER is published monthly by North Dakota Farmers Union at 1415 12th Ave SE, Jamestown, ND 58401. 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 • PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402-2136 Copies mailed this issue: 32,408 • USPS 016-211
I grew up in Westhope and have lived in Minot since 2001. When my husband Fred and I got married, I left the credit union and joined the Ressler/Qvale agency as a CSR in 2004. I worked along side Josh and Gerry for 11 years until 2015, when I was hired as an agent. Fred and I have two kids: Ben, who is a Lezlie Beuchler freshman, and Hannah, a sixth-grader. We spend our time in the winter following the kids to theater performances and basketball games (though COVID-19 has changed that a bit this year) and enjoy spending time at the lake and taking in a few Twins games each year. I love my job because I love interacting with people in our community. I’m a Class B girl at heart and one of my favorite memories is attending state tournaments. I am proud to work for a company that has such a strong relationship with the NDHSAA. I’ve had people thank me for our sponsorships on several occasions. I am a current board member for the Minot Optimist Club, chairing the father-daughter dance. We are proud to have been able to use monies raised to help support the expansion at our local animal shelter. I have also been a member of our school booster club.
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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 • February 2021 • Union Farmer
BE CAREFUL ABOUT "INTEGRATING FARMERS" A two-word term, “integrating farmers,” is being floated around in the press and in conversations. In this context, it means farmers working directly for a fully integrated food industry. In essence, farmers lose their independence and grow crops or livestock under contract, but still own the assets (e.g. land, equipment, etc.). Farmers indirectly become employees with limits placed on opportunity. Integration is generally used with the words “vertical” or “horizontal” and describes how an entity expands or grows to have more market share or influence. In the food industry, it is becoming common as food processors own systems from the farm gate to the retailer and even supplies, such as seed the farmer uses. Do not confuse “integrating farmers” with “integrated farming.” An integrated farming system is a more integrated approach to farming compared to monoculture approaches. It refers to agricultural systems that integrate livestock and crop production and may sometimes be known as integrated biosystems. In these systems, an interrelated set of enterprises is used so that the products or waste from one component becomes an input for another part of the system. This reduces costs and improves production and/or income. Since it utilizes products and waste as a resource, farmers have an increase in productivity for the whole farming system. I hope I have not lost you in the terms. The reason for this message is that we need to be very careful not to fall fully into the trap of integrating
farmers. We do not want to have our open markets left without multiple buyers and our only avenue to produce is for a specific market that has the ability to make decisions for our production and pricing choices. We see the results of the effort to integrate farmers into the livestock industry. First, this industrialization hasn’t helped rural America and the consolidation reduces farmer autonomy and redistributes costs and benefits across the food chain, squeezing farm incomes. Secondly, an integrated system comprises cropping methods and other agricultural production techniques that require farmers to adjust management measures to meet outside criteria. The effects of integration are playing out now as some of the biggest agriculture companies in the U.S. – Tyson Foods, Dairy Farmers of America, Bayer, Pilgrim’s Pride, Kroger, Cargill, JBS USA, and even the U.S. Department of Agriculture – are facing a number of price-fixing probes and other market-related litigation. Late last year, turkey was the only meat product in the U.S. not under investigation for price-fixing. The solution is antitrust enforcement and stronger laws limiting corporation farm operation and ownership. We have ignored these laws too long. It is time to mobilize forces to address this massive concentration of ownership in the food production industry. Both farmers and consumers are suffering and will suffer more if integration is not addressed.
To those who have already donated ...
THANK YOU! FOR YOUR GENEROUS GIFT TO THE NDFU FOUNDATION
Donations of more than $1,000 are recognized at the state office on the NDFU Donor Recognition Wall. Giving levels include: COBALT – $1,000 to $4,999 BRONZE – $5,000 to $14,999 GOLD – $15,000 and above.
MAIL DONATIONS TO: NDFU Foundation P.O. Box 2136 Jamestown ND 58402 Please note if the gift is in honor of someone. For more information, contact Lucy Bardell at 701-952-0114 or lbardell@ndfu.org.
NDFU.org • February 2021 • 3
"We believe 20% of the earnings should be deposited into a new Agriculture Innovation Fund. Governed by a citizen board, those dollars would be invested into worthy value-added projects. These investments would strengthen North Dakota’s economy and farmers’ and ranchers’ profits." — Matt Perdue, Government Relations Director
4 • February 2021 • Union Farmer
POLICY HOPPER FROM NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION
Legacy Fund should support ag In 2010, North Dakota voters passed a constitutional measure establishing the Legacy Fund. The purpose of the fund is to create a perpetual source of revenue from the state’s finite oil and natural gas resources. One of the key issues North Dakota’s legislators are grappling with this session is what legacy we want to leave with the earnings from that fund. Each biennium, 30% of total oil and gas production and extraction taxes are deposited into the Legacy Fund. Since the first transfers in 2011, the Legacy Fund’s principal has grown to $6.3 billion. The State Investment Board invests the principal, which has netted a 5.2% return over the life of the fund. In the current biennium, Legacy Fund earnings have totaled nearly $500 million so far. As the principal continues to grow, Legacy Fund earnings can be put to work making important long-term investments that will benefit future generations. The earnings first became available for expenditure at the end of the 2017-2019 biennium. Since the end of the last legislative session, the Legacy Fund Earnings Committee has traveled the state to hear concerns about outdated school buildings, crumbling infrastructure and new economic opportunities. In the first weeks of this session, several proposals for utilizing Legacy Fund earnings are already under consideration. One proposal would invest $100 million to expand the state’s natural gas infrastructure. Another would invest $50 million in helping coal-fired power plants improve carbon capture. Other proposals would support unmanned air systems, higher education, cybersecurity and parks. Of course, there will also be pressure to use the earnings to plug the hole in the state budget. NDFU is working hard to ensure that
agriculture is not left behind in the Legacy Fund earnings discussion. We believe 20% of the earnings should be deposited into a new Agriculture Innovation Fund. Governed by a citizen board, those dollars would be invested into worthy value-added projects. These investments would strengthen North Dakota’s economy and farmers’ and ranchers’ profits. Amid the economic shocks of the coronavirus pandemic, there has been broad agreement over the need to diversify North Dakota’s economy. NDFU believes that economic diversification can best be achieved by building upon our already strong economic base. Slaughter plants, soybean crush facilities, ethanol refineries and other value-added businesses would create jobs, spur additional investment and strengthen the state’s tax base. Most importantly, investments in valueadded processing can help reverse the trend of tightening margins in agriculture. They will support development of regional supply chains and free producers from the grips of multinational corporations. Ultimately, the Agriculture Innovation Fund would give future generations of family farmers and ranchers a better chance at success. The legacy of past generations lives on in the family farms and ranches that dot the North Dakota landscape. By investing Legacy Fund earnings in an Agriculture Innovation Fund, we can honor our state’s family farming heritage and build a better future for all North Dakotans. As legislators sort through a growing heap of funding requests, NDFU’s primary goal will be to ensure agriculture remains at the forefront of the conversation. — Matt Perdue, Government Relations Director
NDFU.org • February 2021 • 5
Cement your legacy at The North Dakota Farmers Union Foundation invites you to become a permanent part of the new Farmers Union Camp by purchasing a personalized engraved brick paver that will forever be part of the new camp location. This is an easy way to leave a lasting legacy, and at the same time, donate to the new Farmers Union Camp.
16x16
6 • January 2021 • Union Farmer
4x8
8x8
the new NDFU Camp
•• NDFU BRICK PAVERS ••
4"x8" – $250
8"x8" – $450
16"x16" – $850
8"x16" – $550
12"x24" – $1,050
Payment can be made with cash, credit card, check or directly on our website at ndfu.org. Scroll to the bottom and click on the ad! To order by phone, contact Heidi Sagaser at 1-701-952-0102. Please consider making this donation to support the North Dakota Farmers Union Foundation! NDFU.org • January 2021 • 7
WINTER WEBINARS
NDLA hosting Zoom education for ranchers BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU
With the pandemic, the North Dakota Livestock Alliance (NDLA) wasn’t able to hold its annual winter conference. In its place, the NDLA is hosting a free Zoom webinar series full of education for ranchers. The first two have been completed and are available to watch at ndlivestock.org. The NDLA is made up of North Dakota Farmers Union and other likeminded organizations set on improving livestock education and development in the state. Executive Director Amber Boeshans said the alternate webinar route isn’t ideal, but providing education is necessary, regardless of the pandemic. “We wanted to keep our organization members and guests healthy, and we didn’t know how things would go,” Boeshans said. “It worked out well in that more folks have been able to attend online. We’ve had very good live attendance and really good viewership on the recording. They’re posted so people can view them at their leisure and refer back to them.” The webinar series started with “The benefits of leasing in a challenging environment,” which focused on why leasing should be part of a rancher’s “financial toolbox.” The presentation was led by John Edgington, an ag lender with CoBank. On Jan. 21, Ty Eschenbaum of A1 Development Solutions taught the second webinar, “Opportunities in livestock development – five steps to success.” The webinar discussed a stepby-step process for implementing new livestock or increasing existing operations. NDLA is holding the third webinar on Feb. 10
and it will be led by Jamie Good and Nathan Kroh from the North Dakota Department of Agriculture. Titled “Direct meat marketing: The rules, opportunities and sales tools,” the webinar focuses on “combining multiple levels of meat inspection, sales options and tools for local marketing to meet your goals.” The final webinar is titled “Thinking outside the box…diversifying the feed bunk.” Dr. Karl Hoppe from the NDSU Carrington Research Center will explain how ranchers can take advantage of North Dakota’s diverse feedstuffs in difficult times, such as droughts or floods. It’s set for March 10. Boeshans said NDLA wanted to provide education that could benefit the most ranchers. “NDLA supports all species of animal ag, regardless of herd or flock size,” she said. “We really wanted to make it accessible and useful to everybody. We hope it’s something they enjoy engaging in. “There’s a lot of good stuff happening in animal agriculture. I’m impressed and humbled by the producers in our state. They do an excellent job of staying on top of everything.” For now, Boeshans said the organization fully intends on hosting its regular conference next year in person, though it will consider moving its annual meeting from the winter to the summer. “It would make our tours a little easier and get people to destinations without the worry of bad roads,” she said. “But it’s also beneficial to see winter management processes in ag. We’ll discuss and see what we want to do.” Producers can visit ndlivestock.org to watch the previous two webinars or register for the next two. The live presentations also feature door prizes.
North Dakota
Livestock Alliance North Dakota
Livestock Alliance
DIRECT MEAT MARKETING: RULES, OPPORTUNITIES AND SALES TOOLS
In times of drought, flooding and everything between, North Dakota has diverse feedstuffs that can help your operation be successful.
Combining the multiple levels of meat inspection, sales options and tools for local marketing to meet your goals.
March 10 – 11 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Register at ndlivestock.org
Feb. 10 – 11 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Register at ndlivestock.org JAMIE GOOD ND Dept. of Ag
KARL HOPPE NDSU Extension
NATHAN KROH ND Dept. of Ag
THE BENEFITS OF LEASING IN A CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENT In today’s challenging climate, creative solutions are a must! A creative solution like leasing should be part of your financial toolbox. Join us to learn how leasing can help you preserve working capital, manage taxes, secure fixed rate financing, aid in estate planning and much more. Watch the video online at ndlivestock.org
THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX: DIVERSIFYING THE FEED BUNK
OPPORTUNITIES IN LIVESTOCK DEVELOPMENT – 5 STEPS TO SUCCESS Discussing the step-by-step process to explore new livestock or increasing existing livestock operations on your farm. Watch the video online at ndlivestock.org
JOHN EDGINGTON CoBank
TY ESCHENBAUM A1 Development Solutions
NDFU.org • February 2021 • 9
Get your book today! North Dakota Farmers Union has released its second book in the "Our Family Farm" series from author/illustrator Dana Sullivan.
$16.95 plus tax
4 • August 2020 • Union Farmer
When a school bus goes into the ditch because of slippery roads in a snowstorm, the Rhodes family hopes to save the day with the help of the local cooperative!
DEAL!
Buy both books for only $25
Visit ndfu.org or go to https://north-dakota-farmers-union.square.site to purchase your children's books online! Call Becky at 701-952-0108 to purchase your children's books over the phone NDFU.org • June 2020 • 5
NDFU.org • August 2020 • 5
EDITOR'S NOTE: This story is the beginning of a semi-regular series featuring longtime EPIC coaches, or youth directors, in the North Dakota Farmers Union youth program. 12 • February 2021 • Union Farmer
SERVING YOUTH
Having grown up in the program, Nadvornik has been a youth director for 45-plus years.
N
ancy Nadvornik doesn’t know of a time without Farmers Union. As a child, she followed her parents to county meetings. Her mother, Viola Hummel, was the youth director for Hettinger County Farmers Union. Her father, Reuben Hummel, was Hettinger County Farmers Union president. “I’ve been in Farmers Union all of my life,” Nadvornik said. “As soon as we could start, we went to day classes.” Years later, Nadvornik is still committed to the program. She became a youth director out of high school and has served more than 45 years in that position. “Nancy has Farmers Union blood in her veins,” said NDFU Education Director Bri Sorensen. “She has dedicated her life to Farmers Union and especially our Farmers Union youth. I want to express my personal appreciation for Nancy’s commitment and love of Farmers Union and our youth program. I am proud to
work with her and call her a friend. May she continue to inspire us for years to come!” Farmers Union Insurance agent Brad Greff echoed those sentiments. “She lives and breathes Farmers Union,” he said. “You won’t get anyone more dedicated to Farmers Union, the organization, the camp and the (day) school. All of my kids would attest to that as well. They all went to day schools and camp with her as their leader. She’s amazing.”
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
STORY BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU EDITOR / PHOTOS BY DUSTIN MONKE
NDFU.org • February 2021 • 13
George and Nancy Nadvornik on their farm north of Mott.
Nadvornik grew up on her parents’ farm near Mott, milking cows and growing wheat, barley and oats with her sister Darlene, who also participated in the youth program and still helps with day classes. “We just had a little old schoolhouse, and we went once a month for meetings and had classwork, too,” recalled Nancy. Nancy met her husband George and they eventually had two kids: Allen and Amy. The couple now enjoys nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild, and still reside on her parents’ original farm. “I’m trying to get all of my grandchildren (into the youth program),” she said. The youth program has remained strong in Hettinger County, thanks to the hard work of Nadvornik as well as good recruitment from Greff. “I think I had about 20-something last year, which is good because our community is mostly older people,” she said. “I think we’re doing pretty good on that.” With the pandemic, Nadvornik said the education has continued, albeit on their own. Day classes as well as summer camp attendance are integral to earning North Dakota Farmers Union’s Torchbearer Award,
which is the youth program's highest honor. “We handed out packets for them to take home,” said Nadvornik, who is a Torchbearer. “We didn’t want them to fall behind in their classwork and stuff.” When she started out over 40 years ago, it was largely workbook-driven. Since then, she said the curriculum allows for a little more creativity. “You put your own version into the lessons to hopefully make it interesting for them,” she said. Nadvornik has fond memories of camp from her time as a camper but also as a parent. “We played a trick with my daughter,” she recalled. “She took a little stuffed monkey along to camp, and we hid it. And she’s such an actor. She had all of the counselors believing we let her bring a real monkey, and they were looking for it. She played it up to the hilt. She had everyone looking.” Nadvornik said the goal of being an EPIC coach is to engage with youth and turn them into leaders. “We try to keep the kids involved and keep our future leaders going. They’re our future, so we want to keep them in the program. And we like to work with kids.” NDFU.org • February 2021 • 15
Farmers Union
CAMP
GRADES 3-6 (4 DAYS, 3 NIGHTS)* – $115** GRADES 7-12 (5 DAYS, 4 NIGHTS)* – $165** *Grade youth will have completed by the end of the school year **Early bird price. Price will increase after May 15.
Register now at ndfu.org!
JUNIOR CAMPS GRADES 3-6
HEART BUTTE ~ near Elgin June 14-17 — BOTTINEAU, BURKE, DIVIDE, MCHENRY, MOUNTRAIL, RENVILLE, WARD, WILLIAMS June 21-24 — ADAMS, BOWMAN/SLOPE, GRANT, HETTINGER, MORTON, SIOUX July 5-8 — STATEWIDE July 12-15 — BURLEIGH, SHERIDAN July 19-22 — BILLINGS/GOLDEN VALLEY, DUNN, MCLEAN, MERCER, MCKENZIE, OLIVER, STARK
JAMESTOWN July 5-8 — BENSON, CAVALIER, EDDY, FOSTER, GRAND FORKS, GRIGGS, NELSON, PEMBINA, PIERCE, RAMSEY, ROLETTE, STEELE, TOWNER, TRAILL, WALSH, WELLS
July 16-19 — STATEWIDE July 19-22 — EMMONS, KIDDER, LAMOURE, LOGAN, MCINTOSH, STUTSMAN July 30-Aug. 2 — STATEWIDE Aug. 2-5 — BARNES, CASS, DICKEY, RANSOM, RICHLAND, SARGENT
SENIOR CAMPS
June 7-11 – HEART BUTTE, GRADES 7-12 June 28-July 2 – HEART BUTTE, GRADES 7-9 July 12-16 – JAMESTOWN, GRADES 7-12 July 26-30 – HEART BUTTE, GRADES 10-12 July 26-30 – JAMESTOWN, GRADES 7-9 Aug. 9-13 – JAMESTOWN, GRADES 10-12
AWARD TRIPS
(invitation only) May 1-2 – 7TH & 8TH GRADE LOCK-IN June 27-July 2 – ALL-STATES LEADERSHIP CAMP Aug. 3-6 – THIRD-YEAR AWARD TRIP
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LICE INFECTING CATTLE HERDS In the midst of one of the mildest winters in North Dakota history, many ranchers are faced with lice infestations in herds even though they have treated their cattle. Some even have treated more than once and still are seeing the effects of lice in their livestock. “We are experiencing lice populations that are apparently much more difficult to control than previously,” says Gerald Stokka, North Dakota State University Extension veterinarian. “We cannot be sure as to the reason for reduced lice control, but the possibility of resistance to our control products is certainly on the minds of our veterinary practitioners.”
LICE SPECIES COMMON IN U.S.
Five species of lice commonly are found in the U.S., with certain regions of the country seeing variation in the species present. The common species are categorized as sucking (pierce skin and suck blood) or biting (feed on skin debris). Sucking lice include the short-nosed cattle louse, long-nosed cattle louse and little blue louse. The most common biting louse is the red louse, also known as the cattle-chewing louse. Lice infestations increase during cold weather and subside during warm weather in response to the increased surface temperature of their host. Although most cattle become louse free in the summer months, carrier animals (about 1% to 2%) remain infected and serve as a source of reinfestation during fall and winter months. Lice essentially spend their entire life on the animal and cannot survive off the host for more than a few days, according to Stokka. The life cycle of lice on cattle varies from three to six weeks. Transmission generally requires animal-toanimal contact. However, lice have been shown to grasp the legs of horn flies or houseflies and take a trip to another animal.
DIAGNOSING A LICE INFESTATION Determining a lice infestation in cattle is generally an easy diagnosis for veterinarians and many producers. One indication of a lice problem is cattle that appear to have itchy skin. Another sign is characteristic hair loss patterns in the neck, across the shoulders and withers, and in the udder area. Some hair loss may be significant enough to result in frostbite to hairless areas, especially in extended cold winter weather. However, light infestations are easy to overlook when examining animals individually unless the veterinarian or producer does a careful inspection. A detailed exam starts with looking for nits, then exploring for lice by carefully parting the hair. “A systematic and defined approach to the examination of cattle for the presence of lice will enable the examiner to have a higher level of confidence in attaining accurate results,” Stokka says.
LICE CONTROL
The pioneer avermectin (macrocyclic lactone) products such as Ivermectin and Dectomax have been used extensively to control lice because of their effectiveness. With the development of the systemic “pour on” products, along with generic products, the use increased and, in some cases, these products have been used multiple times per year. These products are absorbed through the hair follicles, so dirt and other foreign material on the backs of cattle will limit absorption. Other control products are strictly topical with no absorption. “So whether we are dealing with resistance in lice or less efficacy at the appropriate dose, the result is the same - a lack of adequate control,” Stokka says. Here are a few options to help curb lice outbreaks:
This cow is showing hair loss because of lice. Photo courtesy of NDSU Ag Communications.
Leave the lice alone. At this time of the year, colder weather will be an issue, thus treatment will be necessary. However, in March and April, the best solution may be to let the cattle itch for a while. Lice populations will begin to decrease in activity rapidly as the weather warms. Treat only those animals showing clinical signs of itching and hair loss. Some animals may be more sensitive to the effects of lice infestations, while others can handle some lice with natural resistance. If the entire herd is showing hair loss consistent with a lice infestation, then herd treatment is necessary. Determine the type of lice causing the infestation and use the correct control methods for that type. For example, sucking lice feed on blood and serum from the animal. These lice are controlled more effectively with a systemic injectable product. In contrast, biting lice feed
on the dander and scurf on the skin. They are controlled more effectively with a topical treatment. Use an injectable and topical treatment to control both types of lice. However, no licensed products are labeled to be used concurrently. “When looking at topical treatments to treat biting lice, it may be in your best interest to look for name-brand products, and to use one with a higher volume dosage,” Stokka says. “Biting lice will be controlled more effectively by the parasiticide if they come in contact with it. Thus, the higher-dosage products will give you more coverage on the animal and more area for the lice to come in contact with the product.” For more information on controlling lice, contact your veterinarian or the NDSU Extension office in your county. Article and photo courtesy of NDSU Ag Communications.
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SCOTUS TO HEAR BIOFUELS CASE In January, the U.S. Supreme Court announced it will review the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit’s decision that overturned three small refinery exemptions (SREs) inappropriately granted under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The three waivers in question were overturned because the recipients had not consistently received an exemption in the years preceding its petition. Per the RFS, all SREs issued after 2010 must be an extension of a previous exemption; the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) own data show that a maximum of only seven small refineries could have received continuous extensions of their previously existing exemptions, yet the agency has granted as many as 35 exemptions in a single year. The four co-petitioners in the lawsuit – the Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, and American Coalition for Ethanol – responded to the news, saying that they are "confident the Supreme Court will ultimately affirm the Tenth Court's decision." Additionally, they committed to "continue to defend the court's ruling and stand up for the renewable fuel producers and farmers who have been harmed by the granting of these waivers." The case won't come before the court until April, at which point it will likely take the justices several months to rule on it.
TRUMP SIGNS STIMULUS PACKAGE
President Donald Trump signed a spending package that will fund the federal government through Sept. 30 as well as allocate $900 billion for pandemic relief. The bill contains a number of provisions that will help struggling families and businesses, including additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program, the extension of federal unemployment insurance of up to $300 per week, and $600 payments for individuals who earned less than $75,000 in 2019. It also boosts support for hungry Americans by increasing the maximum monthly benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by 15 percent, facilitating donations of surplus food to food banks, and funding programs that help NDFU.org • February 2021 • 20
students, Indigenous communities, and seniors access food. Furthermore, aid is available for farmers who have incurred financial losses, biofuels refineries, broadband expansion, health care facilities, and rural mental health programs, all of which National Farmers Union (NFU) advised legislators to incorporate into the bill. The organization applauded the bill’s passage and the inclusion of these requested items but emphasized there is a “long road to recovery ahead of us and $600 checks only go so far.” As such, NFU President Rob Larew urged the Biden administration to “build on these efforts and offer additional relief as needed.”
DEMOCRATS TAKE SENATE
Democrats clinched two more Senate seats after Rev. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff won Georgia's run-off elections, securing the party a narrow majority. As a result, Democrats will control the White House and both chambers of Congress for the first time since 2011. With the Senate and the House behind him, President-elect Biden is better positioned to get his cabinet nominees approved without much of a fight. Though he has already named many of his cabinet picks, it will also give him latitude to choose more progressive candidates for the remaining positions. Additionally, Democrats will now chair all Senate committees, including the Senate Agriculture Committee. Sen. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, who previously served as chair the last time Democrats had a majority in the Senate, will more than likely return to lead the committee. In that position, Stabenow would have considerable sway over which bills the committee considers. During a conversation with a congressional pool reporter, she indicated she would prioritize climate policy, including establishing a carbon credit system for farmers. On the House side, Rep. David Scott will lead the agriculture committee. Scott has already laid out a number of his priorities for the upcoming congressional session, including establishing equity for Black farmers, addressing food insecurity, mitigating climate change, and bridging the urban-rural divide.
FOUNDING FARMERS
Roasted tomato soup INGREDIENTS (serves 4) 3 tbsp olive oil 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 small yellow onion, chopped 3 ounces dry sherry 1 bay leaf ¼ tsp crushed red chili flakes 3 cups diced tomatoes 3 cups tomato juice 3 cups water
½ tsp Tabasco sauce 1½ tsp Worcestershire sauce approx. 1 cup chunk day-old bread, torn into pieces 1 tbsp roughly chopped fresh basil ½ cup heavy cream 1 tbsp honey 6 sprigs fresh thyme ½ tsp each kosher salt & fresh ground black pepper (or to taste)
INSTRUCTIONS In large pot, heat oil over low heat. Sauté garlic/onions and cook until translucent. Add: sherry, bay leaf & chili flakes. Continue cooking until sherry is reduced by half. Add tomatoes, tomato juice, water, Worcestershire & Tabasco. Bring to a low simmer. Cook for 10 minutes. Remove & reserve bay leaf. Add day-old bread pieces; continuing to simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in basil, cream & honey. Remove from heat. With immersion blender, puree mixture until bread is broken down & consistency is smooth. Season with salt & pepper. Return bay leaf to pot. Add thyme. Let steep for 10 minutes. Remove bay leaf & thyme before serving.
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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 TWINE, few bundles of binder twine. Excellent shape. 701-771-8653, Kenny Heilman, Rugby. WIRE WINDER, for barbed wire. 701-6932306, Steve Vetter, Harvey. D6 CATERPILLAR/DOZER for salvage, $3,000. Has to be removed while the ground is frozen. 701-845-3594 or 701373-5480, Donald Jorissen, Valley City. JOHN DEERE 1025R, diesel, 4-wheel drive, power takeoff front and back, power steering, winter plug-in, 3-point hitch, 51" bucket, 60" finish lawn mower, turf tires, piles snow 7' high, 300 hours. 701-3172327, Jim Enlow, Manvel. 1175 CASE TRACTOR, 2 hyd, 3 point, CAH, 8 speed transmission, 800 hrs on rebuilt engine, 7690 hrs on tractor, $7500. 4 Michelin 225/60R18 tires on alumnum wheels, 5 hole 4 1/2 bolt pattern, new, $450. set of heads for 396ci chevy, completely rebuilt $800. 701-320-1783, Dale Karn, Wimbledon. TRACTOR CHAINS, 18.4 X 34 heavy duty cross x type design. Used one winter to move 120 round bales from field. Called around and $930 to get a new set. $450. Can text pictures. 701-471-6373, Karl Rakow, Bismarck. CASE TRACTOR, IH 75A Farmall FWD w/540 loader, 3pt blade, no cab 205 hrs; closing wheels & hdw for 50 ft 3320 Bourgault air seeder; Antique pump jack/ wooden lift arms; farm scale/steel wheels; used Case IH 8230 feeder chain; dog house on 4x4 skids; Kawasaki generator KG 1500B; Lincoln electric grease gun; Simer water pump; combine pickup guards/lifters; JD black tractor tool boxes. 701-629-9003, Doug Halden, Stanley. JOHN DEERE 400 LG, 60 inch deck, snowblower with a new Briggs engine. $3500 OBO. 701-883-4508, Ken Roeker, LaMoure. FOR GIVEAWAY, Schumacher swather guards, good condition. 701-983-4445, Johnny Flemmer, Golden Valley. DEGELMAN ROCK PICKER, for parts. $100. 701-983-4445, Johnny Flemmer, Golden Valley. CASE IH MAXXUM, 125, MFWD Tractor, 850 hrs. with 755 loader; MK Martin 8 ft snowblower, used very little; JD 16 ft chisel plow; 5 section wooden harrow; IH Farmall M Tractor; Horse-drawn 2 row corn planter and a one row corn cultivator, 701-4834825, Richard Jablonsky, Dickinson. 22 • February 2021 • Union Farmer
LORRICH 3000 bushel hopper bin w/air. Leave text/message. 701-320-8390, Larry Exner, LaMoure. STEEL TRAILER, 4 wheel steel trailer to park in corral; 15-30 McCormick tractor; 2 cream separators; Late model Super M, w/ live PTO; New tire, LT245-75R-17 Load Range E, 2 new P235-70R-15; One David Bradley Metal Grain Bos; Two-wheel trailer with Model T axle and wood spoke wheels like new. Email larryn@westriv.com. 701597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields. PLOW, 3600 6 btm adjustable plow; Grain cleaner, style #055 serial #144. 2131 Carter-Day. I purchased from a grain elevator. Used to clean certified seed, but no longer in seed business. Tox-O-Wik grain dryer. Model 570 SN 578706. Built by Gilmore Tate Co. 701-5973845, Vernard Frederick, Flasher. JD 4455, one of a kind, MFWD with 3841 actual hours. This tractor has a mechanical front, powershift transmission, new tires, and looks like new. Can send pics thru phone. 701-974-3644, Loren Myran, Taylor. 1460 IH COMBINE, 3600 hours 24ft. cut; Header with finger reels, new transport, new sickle, very good condition (both always in building storage); No. 55 Flexicoil 70' sprayer - new tires & new pump, very good condition. 701-225-3516, Robert Lefor, Lefor. TRAILER, 7x30 foot 2010 Featherlight trailer. Triple axle trailer with good tires. All lights work, double latch tailgate with roll up door. Man escape door. 2 dividing gates with sliders. Just installed 6 new brakes and new rubber bumper. A really nice clean trailer that pulls straight. $20,100. 701-5162920, Aaron Subart, Robinson. ERSKINE SNOW BLOWER front mount 2 stage, 33' flex coil 5000 with 2320 Tank; 2007 Columbia Freightliner truck with engine brake; Chevy C70 single axel truck with 16 foot box hoist roll tarp. 701-3201580, David Mutschler, Wimbledon. 2010 SALFORD 570 RTS, 41 ft drags and rolling baskets, field ready, $36,000. 701320-3172, Mike Carlson, Jamestown.
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE ANTIQUE DRESSER SET with bed, bought at Dayton’s; Electric mobility chair, brand name Golden, only used few hours, weight capa. 300 lbs.; China cupboard; Craftsman table saw, 1960's vintage good condition; Craftsman router, brand new, only used few hours; Record player from 1930's, plays 78 records. China cupboard/trophy case with glass doors, are removable. Can send pictures on everything. 701-263-1206, Lathan Romsos, Bottineau. TRUCK TIRES, two 900 by 20 smooth truck tires with tubes; two 8.25 by 20 smooth truck tires, nice shape; Four 6.50 by 16 LT grip tires on rims; 12.4 by 16, 12 ply diamond tire; One tire, 700 by 15 grip tire on a rim; Three speed column transmission for older Dodge pickup. 701771-8653, Kenny Heilman, Rugby. PUPPY, registered collie, female, sable color. 701-425-6906, Yvonne Schafer, Flasher. PICKUP BOX TRAILER, with ball hitch. $100; Combine hopper trailer, had been used to haul coal $100. 701-983-4445, Johnny Flemmer, Golden Valley. SHOTGUNS, 2 Charles Daly SxS shotguns, 12 and 20, both like new, choke tubes, single triggers. 2 Ruger 10-22s, stainless and blued, international models with scopes, like new. Colt Mustang .380 auto, case and 68 rounds ammo. Call for photos/prices. 701-580-3357, Martin Hanson, Zahl. WOOD, weathered, bundled and sorted. 701-974-3644, Loren Myran, Taylor.
ALASKA JULY 17-28, 2021
WANTED TANDEM DIESEL TRUCK or a real nice Tandem fuel injection truck. Like a newer model. 701-771-8653, Kenny Heilman, Rugby. ATTACHMENTS, two 10 ft grass seeder attachments for grain drill, or two 10 ft Gandy boxes with 6 in spacing. 701-8988747, Weston Schettler, Garrison.
See Fairbanks, Denali National Park, Anchorage, glacial fjords, Skagway and Juneau on this 12-day spectacular land and sea adventure!
COCKSHUTT/CO-OP, 30 or 20. 701-3207391, Howard Stemen, Dickey. WOODEN HAYRACK, good condition. 701-269-2445, Clyde Reister, Streeter. TRACTORS, IH 806 up to 1586; JD 4520, 4620, 5010, 5020, 6030, others; MM 1000's on up; all Olivers 1963 and newer; AC 210, 220, D-21, others; will buy all running or not. 628-2130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley. HAYBUSTER 7000 hoe drills, in working order or to use for parts. 701-263-5223, Leonard Hoskin, Maxbass.
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNTS NOW AVAILABLE! Call 800-366-8331 for trip info Ask for Becky (ext. 108) or Jeff (ext. 111)
Around the state
Grafton Farmers Union Insurance agents Lynn Kadlec and Renae Fayette, middle, present Walsh County Veterans Memorial Board members Daryl Campbell, left, and Jack Maus, right, a check for $1,000 for the veterans memorial to be located at Heritage Village in Grafton.
WANTED OUTBOARD MOTOR, good condition. 125-140 hp, 2 or 4 stroke with controls and prop. 701-320-2466, Craig Neys, Jamestown. 446 ENGINE, International, gas. Must be able to bolt onto an automatic transmission. Motor must be in excellent condition; Real nice Honda 4-wheeler. Must be red with low miles. Like a 420 or a 500 series and one with power steering. 701-771-8653, Kenny Heilman, Rugby.
Farmers Union Insurance agent Cyndi Farbo of Cando, left, donated $1,000 to the Towner County Medical Center.
LIVESTOCK/FEED/SEED FOR SALE SERVICE, Registered Percheron stallion service. If you are looking to get your mares bred, we will have openings for outside mares. $200 breeding fee plus $5.00 a day mare care. 701-226-3412, LaVern Frankfurth, Bismarck.
500 GRASS BALES. Bales are perfect for grinding and adding to your silage rations. Made at 63 inches with 2.5 wraps of net. 1500# bales Made with a JD 569 premium baler with high density. Little to no weeds, mix is native and tame grasses. 701-5162920, Aaron Subart, Robinson. NDSU SPRING WHEAT SEED, registered and certified "Elgin" HRSW; Registered and certified "Barlow" HRSW; Bulk or totes. Delivery available. Please call for variety specifics. 701-739-0191, Brian Ludwig, New Rockford (and Minot).
PRAIRIE DOG HUNTERS to come & hunt on my land. Make reservations now; Want to hire somebody to put up 3-barb wire fence with steel posts in 2021. Email: larryn@westriv.com. 701-597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields.
SAFETY MADE VEHICLES SIMPLE FOR SALE
MODEL A, 1931 Ford Model A Victoria (runs/looks good). Leave text/message. 701-320-8390, Larry Exner, LaMoure.
WANTED 1930-1950 CHEVY TRUCKS, and in particular, stub nose truck. 701-974-3644, Loren Myran, Taylor.
LAND FOR RENT LAND FOR RENT, in Slope County, Section 34, Township 134, Range 100. Leave message. 701-824-0035, George Nadvornik, Mott.
COLD WEATHER SAFETY Dress in three layers:
• Base layer • Insulating layer • Wind and water resistant outer layer
Take indoor breaks to warm up with a hot beverage and high-calorie snack.
Dedicated to preventing injuries and saving lives.
A private non-profit.
www.ndsc.org
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
Sunny Portugal
Nov. 30 - Dec. 9, 2021 Trip powered by Farmers Union Insurance
Discover ancient castles and Roman ruins, groves of lemon and almond trees, beautiful beaches, quiet whitewashed villages and cobblestone streets of Portugal. Go to gateway.gocollette.com/link/1043450 for trip details and to register. This is a travel opportunity offered through Farmers Union Insurance. For more info, contact Jeff Willer at 952-9111.