FARME R UNION
www.ndfu.org
BACK IN ACTION! NDFU members attend 95th annual convention to debate policy and action
JANUARY 2022
GET TO KNOW A FARMERS UNION INSURANCE AGENCY
Marcus Fischer Agency I grew up on my family’s ranch north of Rhame. After high school, I attended North Dakota State University and majored in Agricultural Systems Management. After graduation, I started working as a crop production specialist with Cenex Harvest States. I was recruited by the Farmers Union Oil in Bowman, and my wife and I made the decision to move back to the area where I was raised. I was approached by Farmers Union Insurance agent Bob Craig about filling his position as he moved onto management. Twenty-two years later, it has proven to be one of the best decisions for me and my family. My wife Mary and I have been fortunate to call Bowman our home along with our children Tim, Michaela and Kevin. Being an agent is more than a job to me — it’s a career that I have been proud to be involved in. I work to help people that are not just customers but friends and family in the area we are proud to call home. I strive to work 1-on-1 with our customers to meet their individual needs.
Marcus Fischer, at left, with his family.
Being part of the Farmers Union family has been part of my family’s involvement in our community. My wife serves on the local Bowman/ Slope board and is our county’s EPIC youth director, helping tie our family involvement even deeper. All three of our kids have grown up in the Farmers Union youth program all the way through earning their
Marcus Fischer Agency 3 1st St. NW Bowman ND 58623 PH: (701) 523-3207
UNION FARMER MAGAZINE Volume 69 • Number 1
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: 37,653 • USPS 016-211
Torchbearer award and working at Farmers Union camp after high school. My family is actively involved in the local Bowman County FFA chapter. I can be seen even driving bus to FFA events and helping as needed. I am a member of Knights of Columbus and St. Charles Catholic Church.
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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 • January 2022 • Union Farmer
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
Watne reelected NDFU President
M
ark Watne of Velva was reelected to a ninth year as North Dakota Farmers Union president by more than 500 members attending the organization’s 95th annual state convention Dec. 10-11 in Bismarck. In his message to voting delegates, Watne emphasized the importance of having highly engaged members lead the organization, especially at a time when great diversity of opinion is hampering the ability to have dialog in rural America, legislatively. “We are unique. We are grassroots. What we’re struggling WATNE with is maintaining generational family farms on the land … we have to think big picture and quit arguing amongst ourselves,” he said. Watne outlined organizational successes, including disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers, and construction of a new youth KUYLEN camp facility at Jamestown, along with issues the organization is tackling, namely market concentration and supply chain bottlenecks. Farmers Union members adopted three special orders of business during the two-day convention. The first called for a comprehensive, farmerfocused approach to climate change initiatives. The second order urged passage of mandatory price reporting for livestock to improve price transparency and discovery, and reinstatement of mandatory country-of-origin labeling (COOL). The third order urged swift action to address supply chain challenges, including investigations into disruptions and companies engaged in price gouging; initiatives to address truck driver
shortages; steps to increase rail competition and limits on rail rates; and investments in fertilizer and propane infrastructure in North Dakota. On Saturday morning, a panel of experts addressed monopolization and ways to create fair markets for farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Other convention speakers included National Farmers Union President Rob Larew, U.S. Sen. John Hoeven, USDA Under Secretary Robert Bonnie, NDSU crop economist Frayne Olson, state climatologist Adnan Akyuz, Tammy Krings of The Conversations That Matter, and others. The Agraria Mutual Group (doing business as Farmers Union Insurance Company) also held its 78th annual meeting in conjunction with the NDFU state convention. In other elections, Bob Kuylen of South Heart was reelected vice president. Jon Iverson was reelected District 1 director for Benson, Cavalier, Grand Forks, Nelson, Pembina, Ramsey, Towner and Walsh counties. Tyler Stafslien of Makoti was reelected to the District 3 seat. That district encompasses the counties of Burke, Divide, Mountrail, Renville and Williams. Wes Niederman Jr. of Elgin was reelected to the District 5 seat. District 5 comprises a nine-county area: Burleigh, Emmons, Grant, McLean, Mercer, Morton, Oliver, Sheridan and Sioux. Ronda Throener of Cogswell was reelected to represent NDFU members in District 7. The district encompasses the counties of Barnes, Cass, Griggs, Ransom, Richland, Sargent, Steele and Traill.
IVERSON
STAFSLIEN
NIEDERMAN
THROENER
NDFU.org • January 2022 • 3
95TH STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK
Watne reflects on past year as NDFU president BY PAM MUSLAND, NDFU
“We are unique. We are grassroots,” said NDFU President Mark Watne to convention goers on Friday morning, Dec. 10, as he reflected on challenges and his vision of sustaining the organization decades into the future. “There are things we have to do now to be successful to maintain the ideals of our organization and be able to pass on the farm and ranch to the next generation.” Member organizing is key, he emphasized. “It means you actually connect with people and connect them into our advocacy system.” But with the pandemic creating greater diversity of opinion and even anger, Watne said, “We’re losing our ability to have dialog, which is really challenging for us as a farm organization. We have to think big picture and quit arguing amongst ourselves.” To thrive and achieve organizational success, Watne said members need to be highly engaged and willing to step up to leadership tasks. “We need individuals that want to help develop membership. We can’t have people that are lone wolves [doing all the work] and then forget about taking it to the next generation.” Education is also paramount to success, he said, but extremely difficult if members aren’t reading material or communicating. “We need access to you, so we can get [accurate and science-based] information into your hands.” Watne also outlined organizational successes in his report, including NDFU’s new camp facility at Jamestown and disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers. “In 2020, about 60% of your income came from the government,” he said. “None of us want that. We want it from the marketplace.” 4 • January 2022 • Union Farmer
Farmers Union’s efforts to address market concentration in the agriculture industry, supply chain bottlenecks, and enforcement of antitrust laws is receiving national attention through its “Fairness for Farmers” campaign launched in March. On the near horizon for farmers, Watne sees great commodity demand for soybeans to produce 100% renewable diesel fuel. “It’s not a blended product. California is paying a premium price and states are starting to follow California’s lead,” he said. But with so few soybean crushing facilities in existence in the country and only 5% of soybeans grown in the U.S. crushed here, expansion hinges on crushing capacity. Watne said five new crushing facilities are being considered in the U.S. along with refinery conversions to produce more renewable diesel fuel. The ADM soybean crushing plant and refinery under construction at Spiritwood, for example, is projected to procure 30% of all soybeans grown in the state when it is complete in 2023. “I think it’s going to be the next demand carrier,” Watne predicted of renewable diesel fuel.
DELEGATES TO THE NATIONAL FARMERS UNION CONVENTION FEB. 27-MARCH 1 IN DENVER
District 1: John Kelly (Pekin), Don Rude (Tolna), Mary Rude (Tolna), Sheila Rude (Tolna), Gary Smith (Maddock), Keith Smith (Maddock). Alternates: Adam Leiphon (Crary), Beth Olson (Maddock).
District 2: Shawn Kaylor (Velva), Kendra Larsen (Granville), Kyle Larsen (Granville), April Marquart (Anamoose), Philip Neubauer (Bottineau), Kellen Olson (Anamoose). Alternates: DeAnne Finken (Douglas), Loren Johnson (Kenmare).
District 3: Troy Hedberg (Kenmare), Patti Jensen (Tioga), Steve Keith (Sherwood), Ron Jensen (Kenmare), Denise Miller (Flaxton), Steve Miller (Flaxton). Alternates: Jerri Keith (Sherwood), Lacey Ethen (Sherwood). District 4: Dean Baar (Gladstone), Paulette Baar (Gladstone), Sarah Ewoniuk (South Heart), Jon Pierce (Gladstone), George Siverson (Bowman), Dylan Witte (Regent). Alternates: Lenci Sickler (Gladstone), Bob Kuylen (South Heart).
District 5: Dave Berger (Center), Deb Berger (Center), Bailie Graner (Huff), Bill Kershaw (Menoken), Karen Kershaw (Menoken), Miles Tomac (Mandan). Alternates: Dave Porsborg (New Salem), Matthew Rebenitsch (Fort Rice). District 6: Sandy Franke (Jamestown), Jordan Gackle (Kulm), Josh Heinrich (Kindred), Lynn Haro (LaMoure), Pam Henningsen (Monango), JP Lueck (Spiritwood). Alternates: Christof Just (Berlin), Charles Lindemann (Carrington).
District 7: Deb Banish (Rutland), Mike Banish (Rutland), Bob Bruns (Valley City), Brad McKay (Page), Wyatt Sundquist (Forman), Ben Vig (Sharon). Alternates: Justin Sherlock (Dazey), Ron Halvorson (Binford). NDFU.org • January 2022 • 5
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
NDFU Policy and Action Chairman Bradley McKay (middle left) of Page leads the Policy and Action debate with NDFU Vice President Bob Kuylen (middle right).
Delegates pass three special orders Each year, delegates at North Dakota Farmers Union’s annual convention conclude the Policy & Action debate by passing special orders of business. These documents address specific, timely issues and highlight strong priorities for NDFU’s advocacy work. This year, delegates to the convention passed three special orders dealing with the lack of competition in food and agriculture, supply chain disruptions and climate change. For the second year in a row, delegates called attention to alarming levels of concentration in the industries that farmers buy from and sell to. A new special order of business calls for strict
antitrust enforcement and legislation to strengthen antitrust laws. The order also urges continued efforts to support local and regional processors, increase price transparency and reinstate mandatory COOL. NDFU’s members also addressed ongoing supply chain challenges in a second special order. Citing high fertilizer and agriculture chemical prices, the order urges investigations into supply chain disruptions and enforcement against price gouging. The delegates also supported actions to address trucker shortages, increase rail competition and eliminate harmful import barriers. Finally, the special order calls for investments in
fertilizer and propane infrastructure in North Dakota. A third special order highlights NDFU’s position on climate change and efforts to reduce or offset carbon emissions from other sectors. The delegates urged a comprehensive, farmer-focused approach to climate change that strengthens conservation programs and provides rewards for early adopters. The order also calls on USDA to regulate carbon markets to provide consistency, fairness and transparency. Finally, the delegates underscored their support for renewable fuels and increased investment in public climate research.
KEY CHANGES TO NDFU’S POLICY AND ACTION DISASTER PROGRAMS
• We support a permanent disaster program as part of the farm bill. Permanent programs should be triggered when abrupt market disruptions cause a sustained 20% drop in cash prices. • We believe Livestock Forage Program payments should be increased to the full estimated value of lost forage. • We support granting the Secretary of Agriculture authority to release CRP acres for emergency haying and allowing producers to hay 100% of their CRP in times of drought.
LIVESTOCK REFORM
• We support allowing interstate sales of state-inspected meat. • We support cost-share to help custom exempt facilities achieve state inspection standards. • We support legislation requiring packers to purchase 50 percent of cattle from the cash market and allowing them to hold cattle for no more than 14 days. • We support the development of a cooperatively owned livestock processing facility in North Dakota. 6 • January 2022 • Union Farmer
WATER
• We believe legal assessment drains provide crucial relief for North Dakota farmers and protect local, county and state road infrastructure. • We support the authority of water resource districts to create, construct, operate, manage, maintain and improve legal assessment drains.
RENEWABLE FUELS
• We support the development of sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel processing facilities and infrastructure.
POSTAL SERVICE
• We encourage the Postal Service to allow any inhabited rural residences to receive mail at that location and not determine routes based on population or mileage.
TAX
• We support the continuation of the stepped-up basis in the valuation of farm assets.
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
Hoeven: NDFU members are innovative BY CHRIS AARHUS AND PAM MUSLAND, NDFU
Sen. John Hoeven complimented North Dakota Farmers Union members as he addressed them at their state convention Dec. 10-11 at the Bismarck Event Center. “You really are an innovative bunch and do a great job for all of our farmers across the state and nationally,” he said. Hoeven outlined his efforts to secure $10 billion in disaster assistance in September, including $750 million for livestock producers, to help farmers and ranchers weather the severe drought. “The challenge is now to get that money out,” he said, noting existing USDA programs were modeled to expedite distribution. Additionally, Hoeven said he is working through the Department of Justice, USDA and legislatively to address market concentration in the meatpacking industry. “We’ve got to get after it. We’ve got to get some solutions to pricing and transparency in the market,” he said. “And we’re working on more alternatives for smaller processors to get going, selling locally or statewide. “At the end of the day, we can put forward any ideas. But when you show up, that really makes a difference.” Sen. Kevin Cramer addressed members via video, talking about the drought. Cramer also spoke about the infrastructure bill he supported that will help rural communities, and thanked NDFU for its endorsement on the bill. Gov. Doug Burgum opened the convention with a welcome video.
Roger Zetocha of Stirum, left, asks Sen. John Hoeven a question during a question and answer session with NDFU members.
“Fairness for Farmers” gaining momentum BY PAM MUSLAND, NDFU
Farmers Union’s longtime fight to level the playing field in the marketplace for family farmers and ranchers is gaining national attention and momentum. “Of all the things we work on at Farmers Union, so much of it gets distilled down to having a level playing field and fairness in markets to create success,” said National Farmers Union President Rob Larew to convention goers on Saturday morning, Dec. 11. “Inevitably, what we have is farm income down and food prices up. If consumers aren’t capturing any benefit, we know where it’s going: record profits for monopolies throughout the food system.” In March, National Farmers Union (NFU) launched the
National Farmers Union President Rob Larew speaks to the convention about the “Fairness for Farmers” campaign.
“Fairness for Farmers” campaign to draw attention to the impacts of market concentration. “At its heart, it’s about capturing the voice of family farmers and
ranchers,” he said, and using those testimonials to push the envelope. See LAREW — PAGE 11 NDFU.org • January 2022 • 7
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
NDFU Government Relations Director Matt Perdue, at right, leads a panel talking about monopolization in the food industry and how it affects rural America. Also in the panel were Lori Capouch, at left, of the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives and Oklahoma Farmers Union President Scott Blubaugh. Andy Green, USDA’s senior advisor for fair and competitive markets, was on the panel via Zoom.
Panel addresses monopolization BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU
Monopolization in the cattle industry was a major theme of the NDFU state convention this year. A panel, “Combatting Monopolization: Creating Fair Markets for Farmers, Ranchers and Rural Communities” moderated by NDFU Government Relations Director Matt Perdue featured — via Zoom — USDA’s Andy Green, who is the senior advisor for fair and competitive markets. Also on the panel was Oklahoma Farmers Union President Scott Blubaugh GREEN and Lori Capouch, who is the rural development director for the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives. Green said the problems in the system were exacerbated by the pandemic. “Only 2 percent of hogs are negotiated on the cash market – only 20 percent of cattle,” Green said. “The pandemic showed the problems with consolidation, and we know the benefits are not flowing back to the farmers and ranchers. There is pandemic profiteering by these corporations. We want the earnings to go back to those who put in the sweat equity, and we’re trying to address that.” Blubaugh called the problem a “national security issue.” A fire in Holcomb, Kansas in 2019 caused a Tyson Meats plant to close, eliminating 6 percent of America’s beef processing. In June, a cyberattack on beef-processing giant JBS led to the shutdown of nine plants, though ultimately 8 • January 2022 • Union Farmer
the plants were reopened when JBS chose to pay a ransom of $11 million. “We are vulnerable in this country,” Blubaugh said. “Those big plants go down, and you’re eliminating 5 percent of the total beef supply overnight. Workers got sick during the pandemic and couldn’t work, and some plants [slowed] to only 50 percent. Live cattle prices went down 30 percent and retail food prices went up, so the consumer was paying more and ranchers were receiving less.” Green added that it goes beyond just affecting farmers. “It’s our entire supply chain nationally in almost every sector,” Green said. “The size of these facilities has become so large that if you take one company out of it, you lose 25 percent capacity. Glyphosate, for instance, is overwhelmingly manufactured in China because of low labor and environmental standards. They have a practice that takes land away from farmers and gives it to foreign corporations for free. And we wonder why we have a hard time getting access to this [market]. We need to take a new approach that looks at deconsolidation and diversification.” Large-scale processing also negatively affects small-town grocery stores, as bigger companies are less likely to deviate from established routes in population centers, Capouch said. “We’ve got a volume problem,” Capouch said. “The suppliers … they’re all driving the same roads and stopping at stores that use their business model. And if you don’t buy enough
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
USDA’s Bonnie: US ag does great job BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU
Agriculture is far more efficient in addressing climate change than other parts of the world. That was the message from USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie when he spoke to more than 500 NDFU members via Zoom at their state convention Dec. 10 at the Bismarck Event Center. “We have farmers practicing newer management and soil health,” he said. “And the good BONNIE news is there is a significant opportunity to do even more there and do it in a way that benefits agriculture.” Bonnie, who was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Nov. 16, said finding “alignment” on farming and ranching practices is key going forward. “Things that benefit the climate — like improved soil health — combined with gains in productivity,” he said. “Productivity matters, and American agriculture is really good at productivity.” Bonnie stressed that decisions made on farming practices are not taken lightly, and that farmers and ranchers will be heard in the process. “The overriding principle is that it has to work for agriculture,” he said. “We have to innovate and volume, they’re not stopping.” With U.S. family farms and ranches on the decline, Perdue asked the panel what could be done to fix the issues in the processing sector and locally that could lead to more income in rural America. “We’re revitalizing the Packers and Stockyards Act now,” Andy said of his work at the USDA. “We see a role for cooperatives across this sector, and it’s exciting to see co-ops forming in poultry. We want to support more of that in other sectors. The role they play in helping balance economic power in the market is critical. We’re fortunate that there are funds to address supply chain resiliency. The vision is to build a more regional processing system.” Capouch talked about the Walsh County Distribution Hub, which is a cooperative in northeast North Dakota made up of multiple small-town grocery stores. The co-op buys in a larger volume from one location and takes product to the remaining grocery stores with its own truck. The end goal, Capouch said, is for small-town grocery stores to have competitive prices with big box stores in cities.
do it in a way that works for producers. We need to be flexible and allow producers to build their own climate smart practices and let them figure out the way that they’ll implement them into their own operations.” Those decisions should be backed by strong data, Bonnie said, and that’s where the USDA comes in. “It’s going to be really important for the USDA to collaborate with universities and others – these partnerships are critical,” he said. “We have to provide good data and good information so producers can make the best decisions.” Bonnie addressed competition and consolidation, stating that the USDA will prioritize support for small and regional processors to increase competition. $500 million for meat and poultry processing capacity was included in the American Rescue Plan Act. “USDA is focused on addressing this issue, making sure farmers and ranchers have better access, and that consumers have fair prices for both local and regional food systems,” he said. Bonnie also touched on biofuels, noting USDA’s commitment to producers and rural communities. He also spoke about drought conditions. “We’re trying to utilize conservation programs to build resilience to drought in a way that helps producers,” he said.
“We need to start enforcing the antitrust laws of this country. How fair is this, and how long can they continue sucking the wealth out of rural America? It can’t continue much longer.” Scott Blubaugh Oklahoma Farmers Union president “It provides the structure that allows independent grocers to purchase product together and increases the volume for all three [stores],” she said. “We’re only focusing on primary supplies right now, but we’re hoping it saves transportation costs.” Blubaugh said fighting for fair markets for farmers and ranchers may be noble, but it won’t be easy. He said some action from the Department of Justice could go a long way in “fixing a broken system.” “We need to start enforcing the antitrust laws of this country,” Blubaugh said. “How fair is this, and how long can they continue sucking the wealth out of rural America? It can’t continue much longer.” NDFU.org • January 2022 • 9
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
Dr. Frayne Olson, the crop economist for North Dakota State University, discusses the corn and soybean markets.
Olson: “Shock” value comes from exports BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU
Lower corn yields associated with drought may have led to shortages in the upper Midwest, but NDSU Crop Economist Frayne Olson said the national crop as a whole was strong. Olson spoke about commodities markets at the NDFU state convention Dec. 11 at the Bismarck Event Center. He opened his presentation by nothing that despite a corn harvest with lower yields in North Dakota and surrounding states, the eastern cornbelt (states east of the Mississippi River like Illinios, Indiana, etc.) had a banner year. “We’re looking at a near-record large corn crop,” Olson said. “Even though there was some drought and lower yields here, the eastern cornbelt had a fantastic year. What we’re seeing in North Dakota right now is very strong basis levels. The difference between the futures market and cash market is tight. That signals the local cash market is working hard to get [producers] to sell crops to push it down the line because there are people in this region that need that grain now. If you look at the eastern cornbelt, it’s the opposite because they had such a big crop. “[2021] was the second largest corn crop in history.” Olson shared the latest numbers of American corn use, showing the country is using 85 percent of the corn it grows and exporting the remaining 10 • January 2022 • Union Farmer
15 percent. Of that 85 percent, roughly a third goes to ethanol, a third to animal feed and residuals and another third is for food, seed, etc. However, Olson stressed the 15 percent in the export market as the biggest deal for farmers. The U.S. exported a record 67 million metric tons of corn in 2020-21, but that number has dropped to under 37 million as of early December for 2021-22, as Chinese purchases fell off extensively. Olson said volatility with China makes corn exports something to keep an eye on. “The shock to the [corn] marketplace typically comes from the export market,” Olson said. “That’s where the shock value is. Last year we had record corn exports. If I’m forecasting for next year, am I looking at a higher [export] number next year? Probably not.” Olson said Brazil and Argentina — known for their strong soybean crops — are becoming major players in the corn export market, which could affect the global marketplace. Olson said producers will need to watch corn prices carefully this spring. “The new crop (market) has a different dynamic than the old crop,” Olson said. “We’ve really had a nice trend line up on corn from last spring. I think we’re gonna see the new corn crop prices do the See FRAYNE — PAGE 13
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
Akyuz: 71% of state still in drought BY PAM MUSLAND, NDFU
“Cautiously optimistic” is the phrase state climatologist Adnan Akyuz used to describe the outlook for the 2022 growing season. Speaking to members on Friday, Dec. 10, in a preconvention session, Akyuz said much needed precipitation in the fall has moved the state further away from a repeat of the 2020-21 drought. “We have a good start to avert drought next year,” he said, but 71% of the state is still in some form of drought with 9% in extreme drought, primarily in northwestern North Dakota. “There’s a big scar down in the soil,” he said. “The drought conditions are improving but we’re still not out of there yet. The scar is so big that impacts will be felt.” In historical terms, Akyuz said last year’s drought set records. It was the earliest onset of “exceptional drought” conditions ever recorded in the state by the U.S. Drought Monitor – 16% by May 18 – since the monitor was established in 2000. (Exceptional drought is the highest drought classification, indicating the worst conditions with widespread crop/pasture losses, and shortages of water in reservoirs, streams, and wells, creating water emergencies.) The drought also marked the largest extension of exceptional drought conditions recorded. And it was the longest lasting exceptional drought on record (May 18 through Oct. 12). Leading up to the drought, Akyuz said North Dakota was the driest state on record since 1895 for multiple periods in March and April 2021. By April, the drought was the worst since 1930 based on the SPI (Standardized Precipitation Index) with
LAREW — FROM PAGE 7 Two of NFU’s key champions on the issue are Sen. Jon Tester of Montana and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. He noted Ellison has been proactive in connecting Farmers Union with state attorneys general across the country, which has enabled Farmers Union to pull resources together to collectively go to the Department of Justice. “This is the piece we’ve been missing over the years,” Larew emphasized. Federally, Larew said lip service has been paid over the years to farmers and ranchers in the form of listening sessions. “We thought it was going to lead somewhere,” he said, “but our stories and testimonies were placed neatly in files and put in storage. What we’re seeing now is a real change.”
Dr. Adnan Akyuz of NDSU is the state climatologist.
a ranking of -2.95 compared to the droughts of 2008 (-2.16) and 1988 (-2.12). Along with record high temperatures that enhanced the evaporation rate of any precipitation that fell during the growing season, Akyuz said the lack of snow cover last winter contributed to drought conditions. “There was no snow cover so solar radiation was absorbed by the soil to make it warm and dry. We want white stuff to cover the soil and fan off solar radiation,” he said. Looking toward the 2022 growing season and the impact of rainfall received last October, Akyuz noted, “Any precipitation is going to be good compared to the previous growing season. This is a good start compared to the precipitation in last season.” Larew said President Joe Biden’s message during his signing of an executive order in July that committed the federal government to full and aggressive enforcement of antitrust laws was spot on: “Capitalism without competition isn’t capitalism. It’s exploitation.” Additionally, Larew said legislative bills are being crafted in a bipartisan way to address price discovery and transparency in the meatpacking industry. “When ranchers come together to talk about the issues, we have a lot more common ground. It’s to packers’ advantage to exploit our differences,” he said. With the Fairness for Farmers campaign building traction and capacity, Larew stressed the importance of farmers and ranchers speaking up. “We’ve got to keep this momentum going,” he said. “Tell your story.” NDFU.org • January 2022 • 11
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
North Dakota Farmers Union’s 2021 Torchbearer class had its ceremony and banquet on Saturday night at the NDFU state convention in Bismarck.
NDFU youths earn Torchbearer status BY PAM MUSLAND, NDFU
Courage. Intention. Compassion. Connection. Those were the words Tammy Krings, owner and CEO of Minneapolis-based The Conversations That Matter, used to describe “Inside Out Leadership” in her address on Saturday, Dec. 11, to the 2020 and 2021 Torchbearer classes. “Leadership is not about doing more, but being more,” she said. “Welcome to an alumni network of others who have gone before you and put this work to action. You are a part of an exclusive circle.” Reflecting on her experiences as a first-time Farmers Union camper to youth education director for NDFU, Krings encouraged Torchbearers to live out their Farmers Union values, day to day. “This is the inside-out piece,” said Krings, who is a Torchbearer. “To always know that these values are who you are because who you
Tammy Krings, CEO of Minneapolis-based The Conversations that Matter, gives the keynote speech at the Torchbearer ceremony. Krings is a Torchbearer.
are is how you lead. And when you lead from your values, you get to influence the world in ways you can’t image.” The Torchbearer award is the highest honor that can be achieved in North Dakota Farmers Union’s youth program.
2021 Torchbearer Class
Emily Ames (Wimbledon), Andrea Arnold (Esmond), Arand Bartlett (Kenmare),
Haidyn Becker (Valley City), Mara Bjornson (Spiritwood), McKenzie Current (Valley City), Madison Grieve (Jamestown), Sierra Heinz (Rolette), Katrina Just (Berlin), Johnathan Ketelsen (Ray), Amber Knutson (Valley City), AJ Kotta (Valley City), Krista Kramer (Fargo), Christian Lassey (Cartwright), Ariana Marklevitz (Center), Draven Nadvornik (Dickinson), Jacob Pfeifer (Valley City), Thomas Pfeifer (Valley City), Marshall Taylor (Bismarck), Rebecca Willer (Jamestown) and Angie Vetter (Linton).
Three youths win scholarships Former NDFU President Alan Bergman with scholarship winners Madison Grieve, Sierra Heinz and Katrina Just. 12 • January 2022 • Union Farmer
Madison Grieve of Jamestown, Katrina Just of Berlin and Sierra Heinz of Rolette are the 2021 recipients of the $1,000 Bergman Scholarship from North Dakota Farmers Union. The scholarship was established by Alan Bergman, past president of NDFU. To be eligible, applicants must be current Torchbearers and have at least a 2.50 GPA. The recipients were selected by a panel that evaluates each applicant’s responses to essay questions that relate to Farmers Union, rural issues and personal leadership skills.
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
CEO highlights giving Farmers Union Industries (FUI) CEO Dan Hildebrandt highlighted the large donations of meat the company made to food banks during the pandemic in his speech to the NDFU convention. FUI donated 330,000 pounds of ribs to food banks in five states including the Great Plains Food Bank in Fargo, which received 36,000 pounds. FUI also made a $50,000 donation to breast cancer awareness. “We made generous donations to the communities where we are located, too,” Hildebrandt said. “We donated to the fire departments, police, scholarships for school, parks – we like to give to places where a lot of people can take advantage of it.” Hildebrandt went through each of the six companies that Farmers Union Industries owns and said the company overall had an excellent year. FUI is owned by Farmers Union Enterprises, which is made up of five Farmers Union states — North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Minnesota and Wisconsin. From FRAYNE — PAGE 10 hula dance a little bit. There’s a lot of uncertainty in the market over what [producers] are going to do on planting acres.”
SOYBEANS
Coming off the second largest soybean crop in history, the U.S. has no shortage of soybeans either, Olson said. “A fantastic year, with the same distribution problems as corn,” he said. Olson said the profit margins for the soybean crushing industry have been strong for 12 months because of the need for soybean oil, and that’s brought stability. However, with exports, China is still “the 800-pound gorilla in the room” according to Olson. The U.S. exported nearly 39 million metric tons of beans as of early December, which is down considerably from the 60 million metric tons it bought last year. After China’s purchase of 21 million metric tons of U.S. beans, the next biggest importer is Mexico, which buys less than three million metric tons. However, Olson said last year was a bit of an anomaly, and that this year’s purchases by China are more in line with historical averages. He noted that producers should be watching Brazil closely, as its farmers are two to three weeks ahead on their soybean harvest. “The question becomes, how long is our export season [in the U.S.] going to be?” Olson said. “China buys U.S. soybeans because, for a portion of the year, we are the best marketplace. When the Brazilian harvest comes online, they sell their beans cheaper than we do. If they’re two to three weeks ahead on their harvest, that likely means
Dan Hildebrandt is the CEO of Farmers Union Industries, which is owned by Farmers Union Enterprises (FUE). FUE is made up of the Farmers Union divisions in North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
our export season will be shorter. What does that mean for U.S. producers marketing their soybeans? You better get after it.”
WHEAT
With wheat, Olson said the American crop was relatively small because of the drought. Wheat exports have been mostly stable over the last five years, but will likely drop off this year, Olson said. The Philippines is typically the No. 2 wheat customer for the U.S., behind Mexico and ahead of Japan (although China made large purchase last year that appears to be a one-time thing, Olson said). “Most of our wheat is going to traditional customers,” he said. “The question is, who do we sell our excess wheat to if we have a big year? We used to sell to countries like Egypt and other countries in that area, but they’re buying from the Black Sea, primarily Russia. If we cut our prices for those markets, Russia drops them even lower.” Olson said the Philippines, which dropped its U.S. wheat purchases by a third this year, sees the price of American wheat as too high. “Buyers are having sticker shock,” he said. “China made a big purchase last year but declined to buy any from us this year. Spring wheat exports could drop, but I don’t think exports will drop off as hard as what [USDA] is focusing on.” For wheat, Olson said there’s no reason to hold onto it, at least from a marketing standpoint. As it stands right now, there isn’t really a market for excess wheat, Olson said. “If you’ve got wheat in the bin, what are you waiting for?” Olson asked, rhetorically. “If you’re storing it for better prices, I’m not sure what you’re gambling on.” NDFU.org • January 2022 • 13
SNAPSHOTS FROM
CONVENTION The A Capella Agents performed the national anthem.
The State Youth Advisory Council was on hand to greet members.
Grand Forks County Farmers Union President David Gorder was Friday’s auctioneer for the live auction.
One of the live auction items was an NDSU-colored quilt.
Members enjoyed visiting and perused the many silent auction items on the convention floor.
The youth convention featured a variety of events including a bowling trip.
95TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION • DEC. 10-11 • BISMARCK EVENT CENTER
Policy and Action debate!
The ABBA tribute band, “Dancing Dream” played Friday night.
Karen Kershaw of Menoken, left, won a brand new Polaris Ranger in a giveaway. NDFU also gave away two iPads, an Apple laptop and two Harley Davidson electric balance bikes.
Too Old To Stand entertained the convention Saturday night. NDFU.org • December 2021 • 15
Lindsey Miller, ND Miss Winter Show and a junior at Dickinson State, joined Ransom County Rodeo Princess Sienna Miller, who is a fourth-grader, as they talked about their experiences becoming rodeo queens at the Burke County Fall Festival Nov. 18 in Powers Lake.
Counties hold fall festivals Adams • Nov. 7 • Hettinger Bowling Alley BOARD: Bruce Hagen (president), DeJon Bakken (VP), Connie Hourigan (secretary-treasurer), Tyler Campbell, Scott Mattis, Arlene Walch, Shanda Laufer.
Burleigh • Oct. 25 • Tumbleweed Bar & Grill, Lincoln BOARD: Denise Brown (president), Randall Ryberg (VP), Lois Sundquist (secretary-treasurer), Bill Kershaw, Tracey Miller, Arlene Olson.
Barnes • Sept. 19 • Valley City Country Club BOARD: Robert Bruns (president), Bradley McKay (VP), Jill Olson (secretary), Justin Sherlock (treasurer), Dwight McMillan, Braylen Bruns.
Cass • Dec. 2 • Casselton Pizza Ranch BOARD: John Buchholz (president), Mark Nesemeier (VP), Kristi Brink (secretary-treasurer), Lyle Bartholomay, Ross Lockhart, Kevin Camas, Joel Baumgarten.
Benson • Nov. 12 • Maddock Event Center BOARD: Keith Smith (president), Christie Jaeger (VP), Joann Bergrud (secretary), Karen Smith (treasurer), Chris Arnston, Mark Williams, Matt Gilbertson, Tammy Meyer.
Cavalier • Nov. 22 • Research Extension Center, Langdon BOARD: Jon Iverson (president), David Lundeby (VP), Terry Jacobson (secretary), Doris Hoffarth (treasurer).
Bottineau • Nov. 16 • Norway House, Bottineau BOARD: Tyler Neubauer (president), Craig Johnson (VP), Wanda Gravseth (secretary-treasurer), Lyle Gravseth, Susan Steen, Kenneth Klebe.
Dickey • Nov. 19 • Dickey County Fairgrounds, Ellendale BOARD: Thor Sand (president), Trevor Hokana (VP), Darell Wall (secretary), Ryan Brokaw, Peter Kronberg, Evan Merkel, Mark Bobbe, Pam Henningsen.
Bowman/Slope • Nov. 16 • Bowman Lodge & Convention Center BOARD: George Siverson (president), Terry Mrnak (VP), Mary Fischer (secretary), Joy Kinsey (treasurer), Leonard Fischer, Lauren Klewin. Burke • Nov. 18 • Powers Lake BOARD: Kayo Grubb (president), Steven Overlee (VP), Shalene Nygaard (secretary-treasurer), Brandyn Ganskop, Scott Grote, Keith Mogren.
Divide • Nov. 30 • Bypass Restaurant and Lounge, Crosby BOARD: Devin Jacobson (president), Michael Nelson (VP), Sommer Nelson (secretary-treasurer), Steve Dhuyvetter, Ryan Nordstog, Mark Knudson, Mark Holm. Dunn • Nov. 7 • Catholic Workman Hall, New Hradec BOARD: Shane Sickler (president), Gregory Bezdicek (VP), Richard Regeth (secretary), David Sickler (treasurer), Lenci Sickler, Eugene Brown, Russ Stein.
Eddy • Nov. 29 • New Rockford Eagles Club BOARD: Jerry Schuster (president), Kent Myhre (VP), Kathryn Fleming (secretary-treasurer), Austin Langley, Casey Weber, David Fleming, James Ludwig. Emmons • Oct. 17 • KC Hall, Linton BOARD: Lori Schmidt (president), Leonard Weichel (VP), Darius Aberle (secretary), Andrew Vetter (treasurer). Foster • Nov. 22 • Carrington Pizza Ranch BOARD: Charles Linderman (president), Darwin Topp (VP), Ellen Linderman (secretary-treasurer), Bryce Carr, Tim Aljets, Jim Holth. Grand Forks • Nov. 30 • Virtual convention Did not report county officers at press time. Grant • Oct. 21 • Our Place Café, Elgin BOARD: Ryan Petrick (president), Gregory Scholes (VP), Linda Koepplin (secretary-treasurer), Eric Friesz, Wes Niederman. Griggs • Nov. 30 • Cooperstown Pizza Ranch BOARD: Ronald Halvorson (president), Robert Johnson (VP), Lori Christopherson (secretary-treasurer), Bruce Sedler, Alice Dehoff, Wayne Christopherson, William Rahlf. Hettinger • Nov. 21 • Mott Armory BOARD: Janice Ottmar (president), Curtis Wax (VP), Carol Herberholz (secretary-treasurer), Adam Greff, Anita Friedt, Randeen Schulz, Dylan Witte. Kidder • Nov. 11 • Pettibone Community Building BOARD: Michelle Ziesch (president), Crystal Hotovec (VP), Sheri Martin (secretary-treasurer), Stacie Fettig, Abbigail Stroh, Cassidy Lyngaas. LaMoure • Nov. 21 • Edgeley Armory BOARD: Ronald Van Bruggen (president), Lynn Haro (VP), Josh Heinrich (secretary-treasurer), Kevin Isakson. Logan • Nov. 16 • Downtowner, Napoleon BOARD: Carmen Rath-Wald (president), Rick Marquart (VP), Megan Marquart (secretary), Brandy Wald (treasurer), Jack Horner (director), Isadore Gross (director), William Becker (director).
The daughters of Renville County Farmers Union EPIC Coach Thurstan Johnson hold up their youth awards at their fall festival Nov. 4 at the Prairie Bistro in Mohall.
McHenry • Oct. 10 • Velva Wildlife Club BOARD: Kellen Olson (president), Clint Gjellstad (VP), April Marquart (secretary-treasurer), Nathan Watne, Ryan Blumhagen, Wade Howe. McIntosh • Nov. 30 • Virtual convention BOARD: Brandon Meidinger (president), Lori Blocker (VP), Fern Schauer (secretary-treasurer), Scot Schaunaman, Ryan Wolf, Carl Lindgren, Robert Mosbrucker. McKenzie • Oct. 20 • Rough Rider Center, Watford City Did not report county officers at press time. McLean • Nov. 2 • Turtle Lake Senior Center BOARD: Wes Weible (president), Ronald Bloom (VP), Georgean Lick (secretary-treasurer), Richard Britton, Waldo Westrum, Roxann Bloom. Mercer • Oct. 5 • Beulah Civic Center BOARD: Michael Eslinger (president), Dawn Martin (secretary), Ralph Bieber (treasurer), Marvin Sutheimer.
See COUNTIES — PAGE 21
Lance Boyer of Farmers Union Insurance spoke to Griggs County Farmers Union members about health insurance at their fall festival Nov. 30 at the Cooperstown Pizza Ranch. NDFU.org • January 2022 • 17
CHS ANNUAL MEETING • DEC. 2-3 • MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
RENEWABLE DIESEL CREATED THE BUZZ AT CHS ANNUAL MEETING
R
enewable diesel was the hot topic at the annual CHS meeting Dec. 2-3 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Whether the education sessions were about carbon, grain markets, energy markets or sustainability, renewable diesel was involved – and for good reason. It’s clearly the future. Renewable diesel – which is made from vegetable and palm oil – is different than biodiesel, which is a blend fuel like ethanol. With renewable diesel, it’s a 1-to-1 replacement, meaning it’s chemically identical to petroleum diesel (the only way to tell the difference is by carbon dating). Low carbon intensity feedstocks like animal fat and used cooking oil might be preferred by renewable diesel plants, but the belief is that high intensity carbon feedstocks such as soybean oil will be a big part of the process because of our ability to grow it in large quantities. Canola oil is not yet an approved feedstock, but that approval is expected to happen in the next two years. But what’s driving demand with renewable diesel? The Low Carbon Fuel Standards (LCFS) program implemented by California in 2010. Since renewable diesel’s carbon footprint is considerably smaller, states that have implemented the LCFS (or 18 • January 2022 • Union Farmer
will in the future) see switching from petroleum diesel to renewable as the fastest way to meet their goal. California is the major market with millions of drivers, but the LCFS is being implemented in other states, too. Oregon started in 2016 and Washington will soon follow. It’s under consideration in midwestern states like Minnesota, Wisconsin and Colorado. Two states also considering it are Pennsylvania and New York, large markets that would significantly increase demand for renewable diesel. Industry preparations show America is readying for renewable diesel. Refineries in Dickinson, Cheyenne, Wyo., and Martinez, Calif., have been converted to renewable diesel, and soybean crushing plants are going up in Spiritwood (near Jamestown) as well as near Shell Rock, Iowa. Additionally, ADM – which is building the Spiritwood plant — is expanding and modernizing crush facilities in seven states. CHS is expecting 15 percent crush growth in the U.S., evident by the expansion of its crushing facilities in Mankato, Minn., and Fairmont, Minn. If that wasn’t enough, Canada also has an LCFS program and will likely need help from the U.S.
NDFU’S FAMILY FARMS CHOPPER WAS ON DISPLAY AT THE CHS ANNUAL MEETING DEC. 2-3 AT THE MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER.
filling its needs. And overall, we could see our soybean exports drop, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Crushing our soybeans at home benefits us more than relying on export markets like China. It’s not without its caveats, though. The food vs. fuel debate will continue, especially with rising costs, though CHS Chief Ag Economist Paul Hughes pointed out that the price of vegetable oil in grocery stores is rarely affected by the fluctuations in the market because it’s such a small quantity overall. The other item to keep in mind is the emergence of electric vehicles, which could slow the need for any type of diesel, though the electric market is more geared toward light passenger vehicles. For corn, soybeans and wheat, the battle for acreage will be ongoing, as American farmers don’t have much room to expand. The information from CHS spells good news for farmers, who are likely to see strong markets for corn and soybeans — and hopefully canola — for the foreseeable future, especially as more states pass an LCFS program.
ENERGY
A breakout called, “The Future of Energy in a Carbon-Cutting World” provided a glimpse into CHS’s energy diversification. Rather than picking one avenue and guessing wrong, CHS is “scenario-planning” for the future by looking at different ways the world could fill its energy needs. This includes agriculture, in which the world’s energy needs come from what’s grown out of the ground. Another is battery technology, which could be key in replacing gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035. Regardless of the hype surrounding renewables and the electric
Darker green states/provinces have implemented an LCFS program. Lighter green states/provinces are considering it, legislatively.
vehicle market, CHS believes this process to be an evolution, not a revolution. CHS leaders reinforced that they would continue to use all available methods to power the CHS cooperative system. It does own a Tesla charging station in Miles City, Mont., but stressed that the company is looking more to the future of renewable fuels than electric vehicles. Still, CHS believes gasoline demand will remain strong for at least five years because of the large number of internal combustion vehicles on the road today. In a separate energy education session, CHS leaders discussed how crude oil demand is approaching pre-pandemic levels, but that supply CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE NDFU.org • January 2022 • 19
Existing and expected U.S. renewable diesel production capacity (2010–2024) billion gallons per year 6
thousand barrels per day 350
5
300
proposed or announced
4
250 200
3
1 0
150
currently under construction
2
100
existing capacity 2010
2012
2014
2016
2018
50 2020
2022
2024
0
Source: Graph by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), based on data from company announcements in trade press
continues to lag with caution from global oil producers and countries. OPEC (an oil “cartel” of Middle East countries) and Russia together cut their supply by 10 percent because of the pandemic. Gas prices continue to be high as oil producers in the United States continue to be cautious over the pandemic. When the world stopped driving, oil prices went negative as there was an overabundant supply. Production levels dropped to balance out with the lower demand (six oil refineries have closed in the past year). However, despite people back on the road, oil producers are hesitant to start drilling, when a single variant could quickly cause the public to stop driving again. CHS leaders stated their belief that oil production will slowly ramp up next year and that it’ll be a gradual process going forward. That should lead to stability in prices and in the marketplace. Additionally, a shortage of delivery drivers is hurting the bottom line, as is a shortage of fuel additives. Propane is also a big deal for many farmers, who use it to heat their homes in the winter. The price of propane has increased significantly because supply is at record low levels. A mild winter could go a long way in helping with propane supply and demand. CHS said the U.S. continues to increase how much propane it exports to Asia, where it’s used to make plastic for packaging. With retail purchases up 11 percent from pre-pandemic levels with so much online shopping, that process has helped deplete propane supplies. CHS believes propane supply issues will continue for the next five years.
CARBON
An education session on sustainability featured talk about carbon markets. Carbon markets are likely the future, with 90 percent of the market in the European Union 20 • January 2022 • Union Farmer
right now. America’s farmers and ranchers are a major piece of the puzzle in finding a solution. Agriculture currently makes up 12 percent of carbon emissions. CHS said it’s partnering with Bayer Crop Science on a carbon program, which will have flexibility for farmers to choose how and where they can implement it. If carbon markets expand and values increase, CHS believes American growers will share in the upside. CHS estimated the program incentive payments as follows: $3 per acre per year for no-till/strip till; $6 per acre per year for cover crops; $9 per acre per year for no-till/strip till and cover crops; $12 per acre per year for no-till/strip-till, cover crops and CHS-enhanced efficiency solutions. In the first quarter of 2022, CHS will be offering the program through local cooperatives, which will administer it for farmers and ranchers.
CAUCUS
Region 3 (North Dakota) did not hold any contested elections this year. Congratulations to Steve Fritel on his reelection to CHS’s board as one of North Dakota’s three directors. Fritel announced that this will be his final term. Director Kevin Throener announced that Region 7 (which makes up 11 states including Iowa, Missouri and most of the South) has done enough business to earn a second director on the 17-member board. Because the number of board seats is locked in at 17, the extra director will likely come from Region 1 (Minnesota), which is the only region with four directors and currently has an amount of business that would only warrant three. After holding it virtually last year, the annual meeting was a great success for CHS with excellent education sessions and direct access to its leaders. It was great to be in-person again. Editor Chris Aarhus can be reached at caarhus@ndfu.org. Communications Director Pam Musland contributed to this article.
Wells County Farmers Union held a fundraiser at its fall festival on Nov. 14 for the Wells County 4-H Explorers group, donating $500 through NDFU’s Community Stewards program. Forty-five adults and 26 young people participated in the event.
From COUNTIES — PAGE 17 Morton • Oct. 28 • Baymont Inn, Mandan BOARD: Bailie Graner (president), Matthew Rebenitsch (VP), Diane Peltz (secretary-treasurer), Diane Schultz, Ronald Peltz, Dan Belohlavek, Marie Weinberger. Mountrail • Oct. 26 • Mountrail County Fair Building BOARD: Keith Meiers (president), Doug Niemitalo (VP), Jodi Obert (secretary-treasurer), Patricia Jensen, Tyler Stafslien, Mark Nesheim, Kelvin Horst. Nelson • Nov. 22 • Lakota Tiki Bar BOARD: Sheila Rude (president), Loren Swenson (VP), John Kelly (secretary-treasurer), Randall Johnson, Donald Rude, Beau Locken, Matt Locken. Oliver • Nov. 4 • Golden Age Club, Center BOARD: David Berger (president), Robert Schmidt (VP), Debra Berger (secretary), David Porsborg, Darrell Schulte, Becky Berg. Pierce • Nov. 29 • Farm Credit Services, Rugby BOARD: R Jay Paul (president), David Teigen (VP), Sheila Ostrem (secretary-treasurer), Josh Stutrud, Andrew Fedje, John Fjellanger. Ramsey • Nov. 23 • White House Café, Devils Lake BOARD: Adam Leiphon (president), Dwight Noltimier (VP), Connie Hanson (secretary-treasurer), Rudi Bloomquist, Daniel Webster, Terry Borstad, Evan Schoenfish. Ransom • Sept. 12 • St. Aloysius CCD Center, Lisbon BOARD: Matt Lyons (president), Lorenzo Strand (VP), Cindy Carter (secretary-treasurer), Daniel Spiekermeier, Larry Carter, Michael Bunn, Paul Billing, Mike Schwab. Renville • Nov. 4 • Prairie Bistro, Mohall BOARD: Troy Hedberg (president), Norine Johnson (secretarytreasurer), Scot Ness, Jared Johnson, Steven Olson, Lacey Ethen, Stacy Johnson. Richland • Oct. 24 • Wahpeton Community Center BOARD: Carmen Mahler (president), Jennifer Skoog (VP), Diana Freese (secretary-treasurer), Walter Hardie, Perry Miller, Charles Prochnow, Gary Lee. Rolette • Nov. 7 • Rolette Country Club BOARD: Brent Kurtti (president), Joe Mongeon (VP), Karl Solberg, Sheri Peterson (secretary-treasurer), Mark Heinz, Matthew Mongeon, Mario Lemieux.
Sargent • Oct. 17 • Cogswell Community Center BOARD: Roger Zetocha (president), Kevin Throener (VP), Deborah Banish (secretary), Stephan Hogness, Bernard Planteen, Wyatt Sundquist. Sheridan • Nov. 2 • Reunion Bar & Grill, McClusky BOARD: Melissa Pfennig (president), Melissa Axt (VP), Ruth Roubal (secretary-treasurer), Eden McLeod (treasurer). Sioux • Oct. 27 • Selfridge High School BOARD: Wendy Tecca (president), Patrick Becker (VP), Sherry Becker (secretary-treasurer), Victor Kraft, Larry Nagel. Stark • Nov. 15 • Gladstone KC Club BOARD: Deran Lefor (president), Dean Baar (VP), Sarah Ewoniuk (secretary), Jon Pierce (treasurer), Bob Kuylen. Steele • Nov. 7 • Hope Senior Citizens Center BOARD: Randy Richards (president), Perry Ostmo (VP), Carmen Richards (secretary-treasurer), Merle Strand, William Erbstoesser, Ben Vig, Luke Juliuson. Stutsman • Nov. 4 • James River Farmers Union Camp Did not report county officers at press time. Towner • Nov. 7 • Egeland Senior Center BOARD: Myron Jacobsen (president), Roger Held (VP), Laura Dease (secretary-treasurer), Adam Held, Steven Peters, Karly Held. Traill • Nov. 23 • Portland Fire Hall BOARD: Jacob Amb, James Aarsvold (VP), Kipp Knudson (secretary), Kevin Kyllo (treasurer), Roy Nelson, Sr. Walsh • Nov. 2 • Alexander House, Park River BOARD: Scott Udby (president), Julie Gemmill (VP), Faith Nord (secretary). Ward • Oct. 24 • Minot Auditorium BOARD: Shannon Stafslien (president), Garret Roen (VP), Holly Sobieck (secretary), Bob Finken (treasurer), Debbie Hansen, Karley Porter, Luke Erickson. Wells • Nov. 14 • B-52 Roadhouse and Lanes BOARD: Patricia Patrie (president), Dynella Schmitz (VP), Lowell Larson (secretary-treasurer), Jean Hauser. Williams • Oct. 20 • Williston Area Recreation Center BOARD: Kurt Andre (president), Dennis Stromme (VP), Alvina Skogen (secretary), John Skogen (treasurer). NDFU.org • January 2022 • 21
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 CALF SHELTER, 8 foot wide by 18 foot long, galvanized steel, $1000; Squeeze chute homemade with a Pierson selfcatching head gate, $500. Cancade 8 ft, 6 inch by 21 foot box with swingout endgate and a roll tarp without a hoist, $3500. 701438-2461, Jim Hvinden, Maddock. TRAILERS, 28’ to 53’ semi van trailers; Loading ramp for loading into trailer. 20’ used storage containers. 40’ like new storage containers. 9’x8’ like new with walk in door and window. 701-474-5780 Richard Rydell, Fairmount. BALE FEEDER, for round bales, heavy duty. 6 by 10 ft. $600; Two rear tractor tires, no cracks or flats. Size 20.8x42. $100 for the pair; Meridian hopper, 4k bushel hopper bin with air, used one season, selling due to retirement. 701-202-0400, Ronald Monzelowsky, Bismarck. COMBINE, 2003 9650 JD walker combine, 5654 engine hrs, 3979 sep. contour master, auto-steer, very good mechanical condition, always shedded; 2011 630f JD flex head, call for more info. 701-320-3172, Mike Carlson, Jamestown. PLANTER, 2010 AGCO White 8222 Planter. Liquid fertilizer. Front fold. 12 Row 30”. Flex Frame. 3 Bushel hoppers. Heavy duty down springs. Martin row cleaners. GTA, I monitor; JD 750 no-till drills. 30 ft. Can send pictures. 605-530-2296, Vern Snow, Tolstoy, SD. 15-30 MCCORMICK TRACTOR, 1 new tire LT245-75R-Load Range E., 2 new P235705-15. One David Bradley metal grain box, like new. 2 pairs 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. 701597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields. SNOWBLOWER , 8 ft 540 PTO, used very little, like new; 1400 BU Columbian grain bin, steel floor. 701-483-4825, Richard Jablonsky, Dickinson. CULTIVATOR, used Koehn (Lorenz) 8 row Danish tine cultivator, 3 pt. hitch, adjustable row widths, sway discs on ends, stand, $300 OBO. 701-659-8238, Glen Nagel, Jamestown. TRACTOR TIRE CHAINS. Size of the tire is 13.6 by 28. Chains are in excellent condition. 701-771-8653, Kenny Heilman, Rugby.
22 • January 2022 • Union Farmer
JD TRACTORS, JD 8630 & 8640, both 20.8 38 tires; front mount Erskine snow blower: JD 9650 sts combine; JD 4960 MFD Tractor 20.8 42 tires; Chevy C70 single truck. 701-320-1580, David Mutschler, Wimbledon. SEVERAL HOPPER BINS; aeration fans; IH Cadet 75 & 68 JD w/bagger riding mowers, both run; Kawasaki generator KG 1500B; combine pickup guards/filters; Simer water pump; Lincoln electric grease gun; steel fence posts; used Case IH 8230 feeder chain; Antique pump jack/wooden lift arms; farm scale/steel wheels; wooden dog house on skids. 701--629-9003, Doug Halden Stanley. 1965 CHEVY C-10, long bed, 283 ci, 4 spd, located in Beulah. 701-425-7315, Vernon Buchmann, Fairfield, Calif. I-H M TRACTOR, narrow front $1200. 2-8ft. 620 I-H press drills, grass seeders, fert., transport, recondition $3500. 12 ft. 7100 hoe drill, transport, field ready $1500. 9 wheel rake, all new wheels, new paint $2600.00. Double Kosh mower, new paint, recondition $4800. Hesston 30A hay stacker, worked when we parked it $500. 14 ft. Case disc recondition $1400. 6-18 in. MELROE plow/packer $1200. Can deliver. 701-400-5742, Gerald Miller, Mandan.
WANTED TRACTOR MANUAL, operators manuel for 3288 International diesel tractor. 701-8636882, Dale or Doreen Orf, Grassy Butte. TRACTORS, IH 806 and up; JD, 4520, 4620, 5010, 5020, 6030, others; MM 1000 on up; Olivers 1963 on up, AC D-21, 210, 220, 440, others; will buy all of these tractors running or not. 701-628-2130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley. TIRES, Goodyear used tractor tires, size 11-2-38 for IHC H Tractor. 406-989-0091, Mike Carlson, Douglas. FORD 8-N TRACTOR, not running and complete. Looking also for draw bar to fit 900 to 4000 row crop Ford tractors. 701226-4055, Lloyd Giese, Steele. EQUIPMENT, IH or New Holland sickle mower, hay rakes, I-H press drills and tillage disc. Any condition. 701-400-5742, Gerald Miller, Mandan.
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE SEWING MACHINE, white treadle antique sewing machine $700; Singer Simple sewing machine $30; 1989 S-10 parts pickup 4.3 motor comes with a topper. All to go except the chassis. Make an offer on all or separate parts. 701-438-2461, Jim Hvinden, Maddock. RIFLE, Winchester Model 64 25-35 rifle. Made in 1946, very nice, at least 95% condition. I can send pictures. Very rare in this caliber and this nice. 30 miles north of Williston. Call for price; Leupold 2x7 33 mm scope, assorted rings for 1 inch scope, 1 for a 22, the rest fit Weaver bases. Can send photos. 701-580-3357, Martin Hanson, Zahl.
COMFORT CARE ITEMS, small Breezy wheelchair, built for small size woman or man; Single bed rail; Double bed rail; Large Cupboard; Antique brown color sitting chair. All items in non-pet, non-smoking home, everything like new. 701-263-1206, Lathan Romsos, Bottineau. BOAT, 1994 Lund ProV 1890 tiller Gary Roach Edition. 4 power ped. 2 live wls. Cargo netting. Removal Minnkota 24 volt autopilot 60” shaft. On board charging system. Pics on Bisman, excellent shape $10,500. 701-989-0204, Ron Kraft, Bismarck. DELL MONITOR, in good condition. $50. 701-202-0400, Ronald Monzelowsky, Bismarck. SHOTGUN, Winchester Model 12 shotgun, 16-gauge, full choke, 28 inch barrel. Made in 1938. 701-351-3305, Arne Berg, Devils Lake. GUNS, Winchester 30-30 Model 94 rifle; Western Field 12 Ga bolt action shotgun, model 30; Modified 7 mm German Mouser rifle. 701-240-0184, Harold Severson, Lakota. HOUSE, low maintenance housing close to Frost Fire Ski Resort, golfing, and the Pembina Gorge. Enjoy the scenery from this 2nd floor, 1500 square foot, 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath condo. One of the largest in the complex, this condo has a pantry, den with walk-in storage, large primary bedroom with 1/2 bath and walk-in closet. The family room balcony overlooks beautiful green spaces. 1 car unattached garage. $73,500. Kirk Motl, 701-739-7546, Grand Forks.
WANTED ADVERTISING ITEMS, from any ghost town in North Dakota. 701-628-2130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley. TOPPER/TONNEAUS, topper or tonneau for a Subaru Baja (not Brat). Hard or soft models; Tonneau cover for 1999-2006 Chevy/GMC 6.5 ft box. Prefer Access brand, open to others. Hard or soft models. Velcro must be in good shape; 357 lever action rifle or carbine. 701-818-1568, Dustin Hammond, Napoleon. OLD STUFF, Car or Motorcycle older license plates. Advertising signs for gas or oil companies, pop signs, or machinery signs. Also looking for advertising clocks, thermometers, or Redwing crocks that have the store name on them. Old style gas pumps, Arrowheads or tokens that were found in ND. 701-220-5746, Val Ganje, Bismarck. PRAIRIE DOG HUNTERS to hunt on my land. Make reservations now. Email: larryn@westriv.com. 701-597-3730, Larry Nagel, Shields. PROJECT VEHICLE, 1970s or older, the more complete the better, any make or model considered, car or pickup, prefer a “barn find.” Let me know what you have available. 701-680-1079, Dylan Ekstrom, Forman.
Around the state
The Grow To Lead program’s participants traveled to Minnesota for a training session and stopped by Minnesota Farmers Union’s restaurant, Farmers Kitchen + Bar.
Farmers Union Insurance agent Mary Smith of Ray, left, represented the company in the 2021 Santa Run in Bismarck. A record 623 people participated.
ALASKA Pierce County Farmers Union volunteered to help with the Great Plains Food Bank mobile food pantry in Rugby.
July 12-23, 2022
See Anchorage, the Inside Passage, Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Skagway, Glacier Bay and more!
The tour features a seven-night Princess Cruise! For cabin rates:
Call 800-366-6338 Farmers Union Insurance agent Al Weigel of Napoleon, left, made a donation to the Napoleon Park District.
Ask for Nichole (ext. 108) or Jeff (ext. 111)
Lorem Ipsum
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
Reflections of Italy Sept. 28 - Oct. 7, 2022
Trip powered by Farmers Union Travel
Take in Italy, a land rich in history, culture, art and romance on this 10-day tour that begins in Rome. See the Colosseum, Assisi, Perugia, Florence, Venice, Murano Island, Milan and more. Go to gateway.gocollette.com/ link/1086197 for trip details and to register. This is a travel opportunity offered through Farmers Union Travel. For more info, contact Jeff Willer at 952-9111.