Union Farmer - November 2025 by North Dakota Farmers Union

NOVEMBER 2025 • ndfu.org

'CROSSING OUR FINGERS'

Farmers looking for any sign of good news amid high costs, low prices and retaliatory tariffs

Justin Heisler Agency

I was born in Denver and moved to West Fargo with my twin brothers and parents in 2007. I am so thankful and appreciative that my parents decided to move to North Dakota, and I loved growing up here. I graduated from West Fargo High School in 2013. After high school, I attended the University of Jamestown for two years where I played basketball, and then graduated from MSU-Moorhead in 2017.

My wife Lexi and I live in Fargo with our two sons: Braxton (4) and Brooks (16 months). Lexi is a nurse at Total Skin Dermatology in Fargo and is an amazing wife and mom. In my free time, I love spending time with my family and playing golf with my friends.

Previously, I worked and now volunteer for Easter Seals Goodwill taking care of adults with disabilities, while also running the adaptive bowling leagues in the FargoMoorhead Area.

In 2018, I started with Farmers Union Insurance in my hometown of West Fargo.

Both my great-grandpa (Mel), and my grandpa (Darwin) were agents with Farmers Union their whole careers, so I knew I was with a good company from the day I started. Farmers Union has allowed me the opportunity to meet and help hundreds of new people across North Dakota and Minnesota.

My favorite things about being an agent are building relationships and trust, being in the community, and working alongside Shane Lebahn in our office.

Shutdown is irresponsible

The October shutdown of the federal government is not a responsible way for our democracy to do business. Dialogue, debate and resolution should be the process we use to achieve an acceptable solution that is in the interest of the citizens of the United States. Efforts to solve issues using compromise should never get us to the point of shutdown.

I do not believe placing blame for a shutdown is healthy. It is the responsibility of our elected officials to truly represent constituents, not their support of idealistic party politics.

The primary issue at hand driving this shutdown surrounds health care. North Dakota Farmers Union members support the development of an affordable, comprehensive health plan that enables all citizens to become fully participating members of medical, mental, dental, vision, hospitalization, long-term care and prescription drug benefits.

Everyone should understand that health services and health insurance are major concerns for our nation and citizens. The costs and the availability of health care are having a dramatic impact on our ability to maintain a strong economy, and to give people the necessary health services they deserve and desire. There is no simple solution that will resolve this, but there are concepts and options that can enhance and improve our systems.

To ignore current efforts and past efforts, including government programs and the Affordable Care Act, would be a step backward. Simply cutting funding will move us further into an unaffordable situation where we become an unhealthy nation, living with continued surges in medical costs.

NDFU operates an insurance business. We understand what is necessary for any insurance program to function. Insurance is an avenue to protect a person’s assets when they face unexpected and expected costs associated with living. Insurance does not come free but can be reasonable, if we spread risk and understand that each of us – healthy or sick –participate for the purpose of an overarching protection system. Funding can come from

both individuals paying in and from government support. The secret is to maximize participation in health insurance programs, both private and government funded, creating a diversity of risk for insurance that allows insurance premiums to remain reasonable, so people can continue to participate.

Our government’s role is to provide some sort of basic level of coverage, supplemented by private insurance. The government must work to ensure costs of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals are logical and reasonable by providing regulations and oversight. There must be a system of preventive health services and a strong use of science and research to find solutions to catastrophic health issues. We need to support the use of vaccinations and other healthy alternatives that are science

NDFU BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS

NDFU/AIC board elections are being held for officers in odd-numbered districts at the state convention Dec. 12-13 in Bismarck. Directors serve two-year terms, while the president and vice president are elected each year. Candidacy announcements should be submitted to the office of the president and be no longer than 200 words. Announcements must be submitted by Nov. 10.

OFFICE OF PRESIDENT

Matt Perdue, Ray

I am honored to be a candidate for President of North Dakota Farmers Union.

I am a fifth-generation Farmers Union member. I farm with my family near Ray, where we raise wheat, canola, lentils and soybeans. I spent nearly nine years on the NDFU and National Farmers Union staffs where I advocated for family farmers and ranchers in the halls of Congress and our state capitol.

Farmers and ranchers are facing serious challenges right now. Our prices are too low, costs are too high, and futures are far too uncertain. We need a strong voice that can cut through the noise and focus on the issues that truly matter. As your president, my top priority will be to ensure Farmers Union remains that voice.

In addition to good legislation, the success of family farms and ranches depends on cooperation and education. During my time working for NDFU, I strengthened relationships with co-ops, built new education programs, collaborated with our restaurants, and managed many excellent staff. I am excited to build on that success.

This organization’s greatest strength always has been, and always will be, in the grassroots. Together, we will build a better future for family farmers and ranchers!

My name is Michelle “Shelly” Ziesch, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for President of North Dakota Farmers Union. I am a fourth-generation farmer and rancher from Kidder County, where my husband Robin and I raise beef cattle, corn, wheat, oats, alfalfa, and soybeans. Together we’ve built our life north of Pettibone, raising three daughters — Bailie, Cassidy, and Morgan — who, like me, grew up in the Farmers Union family and are now active leaders themselves.

Farmers Union has been a part of my life since childhood, from attending classes and camps to earning the Torchbearer award. Over the years, I’ve served as a teacher, EPIC coach, Kidder County president, and for the past seven years, as District 6 director on the NDFU state board. I’ve always believed that if you’ve lived it, you can lead it — and I have lived the Farmers Union story my whole life.

I am running because I believe in the grassroots strength of NDFU and the vital role we play in shaping the future of family farms and rural communities. Along with strengthening our cooperatives and growing membership, I have plans to increase member participation at every level, ensuring more voices are heard. I’m prepared to lead NDFU into the future — and I would sincerely appreciate your vote.

Michelle Ziesch, Pettibone

OFFICE OF VICE PRESIDENT

Bob Kuylen, South Heart

Greetings from the Kuylen farm. It’s that time of year again for the state convention, and what a year it has been. We’ve had drought, tornados, hail and windstorms and to top it off, record-high crop input costs and tariffs. We have a great insurance company to cover the weather damage, but family farms cannot survive without a farm bill, fair prices and fair trade.

One thing I have noticed through the years is when things get tough, Farmers Union members get more active and vocal. Please join us at the State Convention in Bismarck to participate in the election of new leadership, set new policy, see old friends and make new friends.

I would appreciate your vote to continue to be vice president of our great organization.

See you at the state convention.

DISTRICT 1 DIRECTOR

Jon Iverson, Langdon

Hello from the northeast corner of the state. It is that time of the year again for county conventions. Harvest has been a struggle for us this fall again: two weeks of rain, then more rain. I am running for reelection for District 1 Director for my third term. It is still very interesting and I am still learning a lot and have more to learn.

I farm with my son Jakob in the Langdon area. We grow wheat, durum, peas, flax, canola, corn, sunflowers, barley and soybeans. Maggie is a senior at Langdon High School. Marcus works for a company that does maintenance on the ports on the Canadian border. He bought a farm yard 1.5 miles from ours and is building a mini-house on it. I hope to see many of you at this year's county conventions and would appreciate your vote at the state convention.

DISTRICT 3 DIRECTOR

Tyler Stafslien, Makoti

Hello NDFU members. I will seek reelection, as District 3 Director, at the upcoming 2025 NDFU state convention. Farmers across North Dakota are currently facing difficult times. Recent federal trade actions which have negatively affected our export markets, extreme weather events affecting production, and absurdly high input prices have resulted in very difficult financial times for those of us who produce America's food, fuels, and fibers. It is as necessary as ever for those of us at NDFU to use our voices to advocate for solutions to the problems we are experiencing.

On the other hand, ranchers have recently experienced relative success - well deserved after years of blood, sweat, and uncertainty. We need to be sure to recognize what has brought this recent prosperity, so that NDFU can continue to advocate for policies which will bring continued success to North Dakota beef producers.

I promise if reelected to continue to make every effort possible to ensure that every farm and ranch across North Dakota will survive so that they can continue to be the world's best producers of food, fuels, and fibers. After all, my farm and family's future depend upon NDFU's advocacy, too. I would appreciate your vote for director in District 3.

NOMINATIONS CONTINUED

DISTRICT 5 DIRECTOR

No current nominations

District director terms are for two years, with odd-numbered districts up for reelection in oddnumber years. The District 5 Director represents Burleigh, Emmons, Grant, McLean, Mercer, Morton, Oliver, Sheridan and Sioux counties. If interested, please contact the Office of the President at 701-952-0114.

DISTRICT 7 DIRECTOR

Ben Vig, Sharon

I am seeking reelection for District 7 director. It is easy to see the wide swath of success that Farmers Union carries across the state because we have active members in every community and county; Family Farmers that are engaged with cooperatives, engaged with member education and youth camps, and engaged with public policy in Bismarck or fly-ins to DC. Our success is when we get involved together. I attended an insurance conference NAMIC in 2025. Farmers Union Insurance is a strong company that we take pride in.

I look forward to visiting with you at the county conventions, state convention, and ask for your vote & support in December. Thank you.

JOIN US

Dec. 12-13, 2025 • Bismarck Event Center

Great prizes for all ages!

• Apple MacBook laptop (ages 15-18)

• Apple iPads (6-14)

• Ford Raptor kids' truck

grand prize

Become a convention delegate and earn an “extra” chance to win!

Register on the app and win!

Register for state convention using the NDFU App and you'll be entered into a drawing to win one of five $100 Cenex gift cards!

Download the app and see below for instructions on logging in the first time.

Download the app today!

It's easy to log into the

If you don’t know your portal password, use the Forgot Your Password option!

Follow the on-screen prompts to login. NDFU utilizes twofactor authentication for security purposes.

You will stay logged into the NDFU app continually, providing you open the app once a month!

If we don't have your email on file, email the state office to have it attached. ndfucommunications@ndfu.org

Convention registration

North Dakota Farmers Union members are invited to attend the state convention set for Dec. 12-13 at the Bismarck Event Center.

Early-bird registration

Register on the NDFU app or through the portal. Preregistration is encouraged to help determine food and staffing needs. Early-bird registration closes on Dec. 3. All online registration closes on Dec. 8.

EARLY DEC. 4

Convention (adult)

$50

$70

Convention (16-20) $30 $50

Youth convention

Daycare registration

$30 $50

Daycare is $20 per child and registration is limited to 20 kids aged 0-6. Hours for the daycare are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Contact Jessica Haak at 701-9521110 for more information. Registration closes Dec. 5 or until full.

Torchbearers to be honored

NDFU's 99th state convention will conclude with the annual Torchbearer Ceremony. The Torchbearer Award is given to those who have worked to complete objectives and be visible in NDFU's youth program. It’s the program’s highest honor.

The Torchbearers will be honored on stage with a visit from Miss North Dakota Kennedy DeLap, who will keynote the event.

REGISTERING THRU THE PORTAL

• Visit membership.ndfu.org and enter email or membership number found on the address label from the Union Farmer.

• Enter password. Click “Forgot Your Password?” if unknown and a password will be sent to your email. If you have not registered an email address with NDFU, call 1-800-366-6338 to have your member number and password issued to you.

• Once inside the member portal, click “Enroll” in the right corner of the state convention box that is listed below your name, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

Find your membership number on the back of the Union Farmer or on your membership card.

There are no exchanges or refunds. Call 1-800-366-6338 or email ndfu@ndfu.org with any questions!

Miss North Dakota Kennedy DeLap is the keynote speaker at this year's Torchbearer Banquet.

Become a delegate!

Each year, delegates from counties across the state of North Dakota convene at the annual state convention to adopt the organization’s policy program. The policy lays out the ideas, concepts and programs North Dakota Farmers Union believes in or stands against.

Each year, NDFU sends a number of delegates, based upon total membership numbers, to the National Farmers Union convention. These delegates, who are elected at the NDFU state convention, help shape the national policy program for the organization.

Policies which are passed at the state level can be brought for consideration at the national convention. Delegates can also propose changes and additions to the national policy program from the floor during the NFU convention.

There are also many benefits of being involved as a delegate. All travel and convention costs are covered. Other

benefits include leadership development, social interaction, creating change through policy, meeting lawmakers, public speaking and making a difference in your state and community.

DELEGATE EXPECTATIONS

Delegates to the national convention represent NDFU and must support the policies outlined in NDFU’s Policy and Action book as adopted by members at the state convention.

Delegates must make it a priority to learn the differences between the NDFU and NFU policies that are expected to arise. Before the national convention, NDFU staff will provide background on anticipated policy changes to the NFU policy.

Delegates are expected to attend all meetings of the national convention. Delegates are also expected to fully participate –including speaking on the floor – during policy debate.

Bismarck - Mandan Hotels

North Dakota Farmers Union

THE AGENDA

99th Annual State Convention • Dec. 12-13, 2025 • Bismarck Event Center

FRIDAY, DEC. 12

7:30 a.m. Registration opens

8 a.m. Mix & Mingle Breakfast

8:25 a.m. Dale Bednarek, President/CEO, Farmers Union Industries

8:45 a.m. Convention convenes/Call to order

9:15 a.m. Dr. Frayne Olson, NDSU economist

10:25 a.m. District caucuses

11:30 a.m. Lunch

12:45 p.m. Jacob Shapiro, geopolitical analyst

Don't forget about youth convention for ages K-12!

Activities include the Gateway to Science Museum, Theo Art School, bowling, Heritage Center and more! Lunch is provided both days!

2 p.m. Rob Larew, National Farmers Union president

2:30 p.m. President’s Report: Mark Watne, NDFU president

3:30 p.m. NFU delegate/NDFU election nominations

4:30 p.m. Breakout sessions (next page)

6 p.m. NDFU tailgate party (page 14)

SATURDAY, DEC. 13

7:30 a.m. Registration/voting opens

8:15 a.m. Breakfast with your insurance agent

9 a.m. Insurance annual meeting; Credentials/Bylaws Committee reports; FUI CEO Report from Mark Anderson

9:30 a.m. Member Q & A with Watne & Anderson

10:15 a.m. Jon Bouker, constitutional scholar

11:15 a.m. Bylaws consideration/Begin policy debate

11:45 a.m. Student Youth Advisory Council presentations

12 a.m. Lunch

1 p.m. Balloting closes

1:15 p.m. Policy consideration and debate

Cost is $30 and open to youth whose parents are attending the NDFU convention. Register online at NDFU.org.

4:45 p.m. Final report of Credentials Committee; Elections Committee report; Introduction of new board members

5 p.m. Social

6:30 p.m. Torchbearer Award ceremony/banquet

SPEAKER: Miss North Dakota 2025 Kennedy DeLap

8 p.m. Drawing for prizes/social continues

NDFU to host three breakouts

North Dakota Farmers Union’s 99th annual state convention features three breakouts. The breakouts will be held at 4:15 p.m. on Friday.

PUBLIC EDUCATION: Where the future gets its start

Public education is the foundation for individual and societal success, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to become productive citizens. Attendees to this breakout will learn about the value that public education provides.

HEALTH CARE DOUBLE TROUBLE:

What ACA changes could mean for your health insurance premiums

In this session, attendees will hear about the latest changes with the Affordable Care Act that could

negatively affect health insurance premiums. Farmers Union Insurance will be on hand to discuss how these changes could impact you.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT

Beyond the Bloom of Mandan is putting on a class to create a Christmas-themed piece that can be used as a wreath or a centerpiece. Come join us for festive fun! Participants can register through the NDFU app or the portal. They can also register when they arrive at state convention (if spots are still available). Each session is limited to 25 people. The registration fee for this breakout is $25.

FEATURED SPEAKERS

JACOB SHAPIRO, GEOPOLITICAL ANALYST

Shapiro is known for his tailored presentations, immersive audience engagement, and impartial perspective that challenges every attendee to think differently about the world, their industries and themselves. He speaks at events in the U.S. and around the world, covering topics as broad as global geopolitical predictions to specific subjects affecting individual markets and audiences. He applies his experience as an analyst, researcher and consultant to translate complex global political issues, economic trends and current affairs into practical insights for every audience.

JON BOUKER, CONSTITUTIONAL SCHOLAR

Jon brings extensive experience to Congress, which he puts to work serving clients on a wide variety of general business and government relations matters.

He represents clients before Congress, the White House, and federal agencies, the government of the District of Columbia, and surrounding counties.

TAILGATE PARTY

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT AT STATE CONVENTION

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12

Full details and complete rules will be provided to the teams.

• Create a team of 2 members.

• Choose your team name.

• Play to 21. We use the “no bust” rule so people can go over 21.

• Double elimination tournament.

• Two people per team.

JIGSAW PUZZLE COMPETITION

• Create a team of 2-4 members.

• Choose your team name.

• Each team wil be given an identical 500-piece puzzle to assemble in two hours.

• First team to finish their puzzle in the least amount of time wins!

• Competition limited to 20 teams.

PRIZES AWARDED

TO WINNING TEAMS FOR BOTH PUZZLE & CORNHOLE GAMES

1ST PLACE - $1,000 2ND PLACE - $500 3RD PLACE - $250

Visit NDFU.org/2025convention and sign up for our Friday night competitions!

The NDFU Foundation was established in 2000 for the purpose of raising funds for NDFU’s renowed youth education program. The NDFU Foundation will receive 100% of the proceeds from the Silent Auction.

BETTING ON TOMORROW

Sundquist, farmers wait for good news as problems in agriculture continue to mount

Story and photos by Chris Aarhus, NDFU

Earpiece in and sunglasses on, Wyatt Sundquist is at peace in his combine during the harvest season. It’s a momentary break from that which plagues agriculture, with its high inputs, low commodity prices and retaliatory tariffs.

“I love being out here — it’s just peaceful,” he said. “Even on stressful days when something goes wrong, you can get back in the combine and just look around and say, hey, I did this. I put this in the ground. I nurtured it and took care of it.”

On this sunny October day north of Forman, N.D., the fifth-generation farmer is feeling pretty good, maneuvering around the many sloughs on the quarter-section of land his grandfather bought 60 years ago.

“Some of the ground that I farm has been in my family for 136 years, so it’s a legacy for me,” said Sundquist, a small family farmer with 1,500 acres. “If you’re farming, you’ve got to be optimistic. You’re always hoping that

something’s going to turn around, and you’ll be able to take advantage of it.”

Farmers are digging deep for optimism these days. At a southeastern North Dakota elevator in the middle of October, corn sat around the $3.60 mark, with soybeans at $8.80 — prices that won’t cover the cost of production, Sundquist said. That means he has big decisions ahead of him already, particularly about marketing.

“I think corn has the best possibility of some uptick because we have markets for that, with Mexico and Canada,” he said.

But storing corn could be an issue, as the crop is most often rotated with soybeans. And farmers may need all the bin space they can get to store their beans, Sundquist said. According to USDA, Chinese companies haven’t purchased American soybeans since

ABOVE: Wyatt Sundquist of Forman farms around 1,500 acres.

LEFT: His retired father Colin helps him with the grain cart.

May, due to the 10% retaliatory tariff the Chinese government put on the commodity, which is used to feed China’s large but declining hog population.

With beans coming off the field in October, farmers remain desperate for any news of market developments. Half of American soybean exports went to China in 2024, and by the end of this year, USDA projects that total agricultural exports to China will have dropped by 50% from their 2022 total.

Like all farmers, Sundquist has bills to pay, meaning a portion of this year’s harvest will have to be sold at lower-than-average prices.

“I want to hold out for a better price, but they’re not doing any good sitting in a bin, either,” he said. “I have loan and (land) rent payments to make, and what I’ve contracted to sell already isn’t going to cover them.”

At this time of year, farmers have the doublewhammy of needing to think about both this harvest and the next planting season, which means farm financials are on their minds daily.

“If I don’t pay off my operating loan and I’m not up to date on some of my other payments, my credit looks terrible,” he said. “I’m left sitting here wondering if I’m going to get everything covered. I’ve got some equipment loans. I’ve got rent that’s due. I do have a nice (yield) this year, but it’s not a bumper crop by any means that could make up the difference in dollars and cents. So, we’re crossing our fingers.”

Sundquist said it’s already changed how he’s

approached end of the year planning. Supply co-ops often suggest pre-buying next year’s fertilizer in the fall, when the price is cheaper, but Sundquist is holding off for now.

“At this point in the year, I’m usually contracting my fertilizer for the next year because it usually means a lower price,” he said. “I just don’t know how much I’m going to put in and how much I want that sitting on my books right now. And yeah, it’s purchasing forward so it’s for next year’s books. But at the same time, it’s still stressing on what you already have out there. If I choose to do another 500 acres in corn next year, that’s probably $70,000 to $100,000 in fertilizer that I’d be paying interest on.

Sundquist has two-thirds of his crop in soybeans this year, with the other third in corn — not uncommon in the southeastern part of the state. And this year especially, he’s heard the questions: Why don’t farmers plant something else? He’s kicked around possibly planting some canola next year and hauling it 50 miles down the road to Enderlin. His local elevator only takes corn, soybeans and wheat.

“When we do that, that’ll just drop the canola price,” he said. “There’s not a great price on anything. Do we need to start looking at something different? Possibly. Specialty crops are an option, but those are contracts (specific to companies). You don’t just put it in the ground, combine it and take it to the local elevator. There are different requirements with them.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Melissa and Wyatt Sundquist of Forman, left, sit with Tim Fischer of Bowman during a meeting about concentration in agriculture at the Department of Justice during the National Farmers Union Fly-in Sept. 8 in Washington, D.C.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

“Then it also comes down to equipment. Is what I have now going to be good enough to put in that new crop or am I going to have to buy something? And if this is not (a commonly grown commodity), will elevators get enough of it to fill a unit train if they wanted to? Railroads don’t want to mess around with 50 cars (of one commodity) at a time, they want 110.”

Simply put, change doesn’t happen overnight, and certainly not in a single growing season, Sundquist said. And it’ll take more than just farmers to make a shift away from soybeans.

“It’s not just the farmer that has to conform to all of this,” he said. “It’s gonna have to be the markets, the elevators — it’s a big change across the board. What the outcome here is, nobody knows. It’s not going to be an overnight fix, by any means.”

As many farmers do in times such as these, Sundquist has tightened his financial belt — though there isn’t much room to do that. A trained technician from his work at a Case dealer, Sundquist already fixes most of his own equipment. He’s a small farmer, so he doesn’t own brand-new, million-dollar machines. Still, the economic problems in agriculture affect him, too.

“I’m not out here farming the entire countryside,” he said. “Most of what I farm is family land or land I rent from some close friends. I have friends on Facebook who will say that if farmers did their job and wouldn’t overspend, then government wouldn’t have to give them money. It’s not an overspending issue. I’ve invested in what I have to invest in.”

Sundquist has a payment to make on the used Case combine he recently purchased, which he bought for $174,000 when his previous combine had more than 6,500 hours on it. A new base model would be more than $500,000.

Wyatt Sundquist could see his health insurance premium double if Affordable Care Act tax credits expire at the end of the year.

“It was starting to wear out,” he said. “Do I look at getting another combine or continue to throw money at an old one and then have it finally clunk out on me, and then I still have to go find another combine? I buy used equipment. I fix my own equipment. My newest pickup is 20 years old. My newest semi-truck is 20 years old. My other semi had a cracked head and gasket this year, and that’s $12,000 just to get it up and running again. That’s just the way it is for us. The price of equipment has gotten astronomical. And now you have to worry if you can even get parts for them.”

Colin Sundquist — Wyatt’s father — farmed through the 1980s crisis and said you have to stay lean in these times.

“Just try and keep your costs down,” Colin said. “He’s pretty good about that. He watches everything (close), and he knows where he’s at. Although with the marketing this year, I’m not sure anybody knows where they’re at.”

Adding to Wyatt’s pain points is a potential rise in health care costs, as he gets his health insurance from the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. ACA tax credits that help low- and middle-income families afford health insurance are set to expire at the end of the year, though open enrollment actually starts Nov. 1.

North Dakota Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread has said many farmers and ranchers will see a large increase in those premiums, with some seeing their premium quadruple, if Congress doesn’t act.

“If that doubles, then that’ll go from $600 to $1,200 a month,” Sundquist said.

Farmers continue to get hit from all sides, but Sundquist sees light at the end of the tunnel. He believes this country has options for its farmers.

“We need to do more with our domestic markets, and more with renewable fuels,” he said. “If we’re making the decision to go away from (exporting) soybeans, then our country needs to get on board and say, let’s use the crops we grow for oil and plastics and fuels.”

NDFU MOBILE APP How to use the

Members can use the same email address and password they use for the NDFU portal to log into the app. If you do not know your password, use the “Forgot Your Password” option. NDFU must have an email address on file for you to use the app. If we do not have an email address for you, please call 1-800-366-6338 or email us at ndfu@ndfu.org to have it attached to your account.

If you don’t know your portal password, use the Forgot Your Password option!

Follow the on-screen prompts to login. NDFU utilizes two-factor authentication for security purposes.

Choose to receive your two-factor code via text or email!

Enter the code to get into the app. If the texting option does not work the first time, try again and choose the email option.

You will stay logged into the NDFU app continually, providing you open the app once a month!

Three of the features of the app include a home screen with notifications, state convention registration and the ability to find and contact your legislators about important issues!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I have to be a member to log into the app?

Yes. The app is for NDFU members. Those who would like to become members can sign up at NDFU.org!

What if NDFU doesn’t have my email address? Like any online service, we require an email address to use the mobile app. Contact us at 1-800-366-6338 or ndfu@ndfu.org to have an email address added to your account. Additionally, if we have a different email address on file than the one you’re currently using, you can use the one we have on file or contact us with your new address.

NDFU has my email, but I’ve never used the online portal. What’s my password? Search NDFU in the app store or scan the QR code. Download the app, use the Forgot Password link on the login screen and follow the on-screen prompts to set a new password using the email address we have on file for you!

If you continue to have trouble logging in, contact Chris Aarhus in the Communications Department at 701-952-0118 or caarhus@ndfu.org.

HOME AT LAST

FUI agent in Mott moves into new building after complete remodel

BY CHRIS AARHUS, NDFU

In her first year as a Farmers Union Insurance agent, Amber Grist of Mott was faced with a big decision. After taking over for longtime agent Brad Greff — who retired at the end of 2023 — Grist took a hard look at her current building on the town’s main drag.

“It was an older building that had water issues, and I didn’t want to be in a building for the next 20 years and have to put in a ton of money into it,” she said.

The answer was across the street. Amber and her husband Kelly purchased a building from a retired crop insurance agent in October of 2024. Ten months later, she moved into her newly renovated space.

“It’s a little bigger space, and it doesn’t have a basement so no water issues — it was a good move overall,” Amber said. “It was a big project. My husband took on the job of redoing it.”

The Grists started over the winter, putting in new vinyl flooring, adding new ceiling tiles

and painting walls. Amber added sliding doors at the entrance to her office.

“I just like the aesthetic with older rustics,” she said. “I’ve gotten a lot of compliments on them. It’s super modern, but also more of a home feeling.”

Born and raised in Mott, Amber was previously a massage therapist and veterinary tech before her family moved back to Mott. She was a customer service representative for Greff for seven years, when Farmers Union Insurance contracted with her to replace him as the full-time agent in Mott following Greff’s retirement.

Amber said she likes being part of a company that plays such a big role in small communities.

“We’re huge into supporting communities and being out there,” she said. “Being at sporting events, charity events and on community boards — people really like that in these communities, and it’s needed. (Communities) know we care.”

Authentic BBQ has arrived at Founding Farmers

Co-Owner Michael Vucurevich and Chef Joe Goetze have been working up to something very special at Founding Farmers. After years exploring the science and soul of authentic BBQ across central Texas, into the Carolinas, Memphis, and even Kansas City, they’re now bringing it to their restaurants.

Great BBQ is personal and requires commitment to quality meats, proper wood selection, LOTS of practice, and the patient art of time and temperature. Just like everything they do, their BBQ is made from scratch, cooked low and slow in small batches, and crafted with care. As Chef Joe explains, "The best BBQ places focus on delicious, quality meats and simple sides. No frills, no extras — just authentic flavors that speak for themselves."

Founding Farmers will be offering BBQ as a weekly Founding Farmers BBQ Experience at Founding Farmers Alexandria and in their holiday heat and eat menus for Thanksgiving and Christmas. What’s available includes perfectly cooked ribs — smoked simply with a dry rub of salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavor, smoked ham, tender brisket, Carolina pulled pork, and a host of delicious sauces and sides.

Based on the success of the program, their goal is to expand the weekly experience to additional locations in the new year and begin to sprinkle their BBQ offerings into the catering program. Bottom line: they're excited to share the deliciousness of this authentic age-old craft with their guests in every way possible.

Over 40 women joined North Dakota Farmers Union for the annual Women In Leadership Development event.

This year, the event was held near the Twin Cities, as attendees toured Schram Vineyards, The Grater Good, Rising Sun Farm & Orchard, and Chanhassen Dinner Theater.

Burleigh County Farmers Union hosted a family event at Poppa's Pumpkin Patch in Bismarck. Along with taking in the pumpkin patch, the kids had an opportunity to do a craft project.

Ward County Farmers Union held a women's craft night in late September.

Oliver County co-sponsored Eco-Ed Days with the Oliver County Soil Conservation District. They served lunch to teachers and students.

County Calendar

Nov. 1 – Bottineau County Convention • 5:30 p.m. • Kramer Fire Hall, Kramer.

Nov. 1 — Ward County Convention • 1 p.m. • North Central Research Extension Center, Minot.

Nov. 2 — Adams County Convention • 4 p.m. • Hettinger Public School.

Nov. 2 — Barnes County Convention • 6 p.m. • Pizza Corner, Valley City.

Nov. 2 — Towner County Convention • 3 p.m. • Egeland Senior Center.

Nov. 3 – Oliver County Convention • 7 p.m. • Golden Age Club, Center.

Nov. 5 — Emmons County Convention • 6:30 p.m. • Linton Community Center.

Nov. 5 — Griggs County Convention • 6 p.m. • Nana’s Café, Cooperstown.

Nov. 5 — McLean County Convention • 6:30 p.m. • Garrison Senior Center.

Nov. 6 — Hettinger County Convention • 6 p.m. • Slope Electric Hospitality Room, New England.

Nov. 8-10 — NFU Women’s Conference, Louisville, Ky.

Nov. 9 — Rolette County Convention • 2 p.m. • Rolette Country Club

Nov. 10 — Foster County Convention • 6 p.m. • Carrington Pizza Ranch

Nov. 11-13 — NDFU Board of Directors, Jamestown.

Nov. 12 — McIntosh County Convention • 6 p.m. • Ashley Senior Center.

Nov. 13 — Mountrail County Convention • 6 p.m. • Boy Scout Building, Stanley.

Nov. 16 — Ramsey County Convention • 3 p.m. • 4H Hall, Ramsey County Fairgrounds, Devils Lake.

Nov. 17 — Dickey County Convention • 5:30 p.m. • USDA Service Center, Ellendale.

Nov. 17 — Stutsman County Convention • 6 p.m. • NDFU state office, Jamestown.

Nov. 18 — Richland County Convention • 6:30 p.m. • Dakota Vines, Colfax.

NOTES: RSVP to Dalton at 701-640-6656

Nov. 20 — Bowman-Slope County Convention • 5:30 p.m. • Sweetwater Golf Course, Bowman.

Nov. 21 — Wells County Convention • 6 p.m. • Festival Hall, Fessenden.

Nov. 22 — Burke County Convention • 5 p.m. • Caddy’s Shack, Bowbells.

Nov. 22 — Kidder County Convention • 10 a.m. • Pettibone Community Center.

Nov. 23 — Dunn County Convention • 5:30 p.m. • Catholic Workman Hall, New Hradec.

Nov. 23 — LaMoure County Convention • 6 p.m. • Edgeley Golf Course.

Nov. 23 — McHenry County Convention • 1 p.m. • Finish Line, Velva.

Nov. 23 — Stark County Convention • 3 p.m. • West River Community Center, Dickinson.

Dec. 1 — Cavalier County Convention • 5 p.m. • NDSU Langdon Research Center.

Dec. 4-5 — CHS Annual Meeting, Minneapolis.

Dec. 12-13 — NDFU state onvention, Bismarck.

March 7-9, 2026 — NFU Convention at New Orleans

A real-time updated list of county conventions and other dates can be found on the NDFU app or at ndfu.org/events

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

FOR SALE

1986 JOHN DEERE 2950, diesel, 158 Loader, Front Wheel Assist, 3400 hours, original owner, 2 new batteries, new cab kit, tires are in excellent shape, always stored inside, clean and well taken care of. 701-321-2275, Frank Wangler, Kintyre.

GENERATORS, Titan industrial generator model 6500D, $1500. Honda generator model EU 3000 IS, $1500. International Combine 1460 $2500. Sell for parts. Call for more information. 701-650-1265, Dennis Loewen, Sykeston.

10 CATTLE STANCHIONS, older but always kept inside. Make offer. 701-871-7312, Barbara Diebold, Willow City.

LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT, 8N ford, 3-point 2 bottom plow, self-feeders, PTO generator, 2 steel bins to be moved, one 6000 & one 4000. 701653-5751, Nathan Hurt, Chaseley.

SNOWBLOWER, Farm King, 8 ft, 3 pt hitch. 701435-2521, John Backer, Courtenay.

FARMALL M, has recent paint job but is faded. Has 3-point hitch and regular hitch. Rear hydraulics. Leaks coolant into crankcase. Can send pictures. Make offer. 701-471-1306, Gene Kahl, Solen.

AG EQUIPMENT, retirement sale. 1996 Agco Allis 9695 FWA tractor, 200 hp, 6900 hrs, 4 hyd in very good condition, $30,000; 1995 Ford New Holland 9480 tractor, 7400 hrs, 855 Cummins, 20.8.42 tires, 4 hyd with return, $28000, in very good condition. 701-520-1251, Lee Menzies, Cavalier.

DIESEL ENGINE, Perkins 354 6 cylinder diesel engine out of a 1979 750 Massey Combine. Low hours and runs strong. Can email video of motor running, $1000. 701-341-0491, James Hvinden, Maddock.

1960 JD-630 TRACTOR. Wide front power steering. 3 PT - hydraulics. Power takeoff. Fenders - weights. Always shedded. 701-2284849, Merle Allard, Bottineau.

15-30 MCCORMICK TRACTOR, make offer, 1 New Tire LT245-75R-Load Range E. Two cream separators, 4-wheel Steel Running Gear, 1 Covered Wagon Running Gear, 1905 All metal JD Hand Operated Corn Sheller, like new has paint and serial number. 701-548-8020, Larry Nagel, Shields.

D17 TRACTOR; Hay rake; Accordion; Honda 4-wheeler; 6x44 drive belt. 701-270-0184, Harold Severson, Lakota.

2001 JD 9750 COMBINE, PRWD, Cont Master - Eng -4968/Sep- 3331. Above avg condition; 2010 635F Flex Head w/ Crary Air Bar (New Transmission/bushings on reel); JD 1820 Corn Head - 18 Row 20", Non Chopping, Hydraulic Deck Plates, row sense, auto header height, Clark mfg conversion kit - many new parts to go along; 1977 Chevy C65 Tandem Grain Truck, 427 - 5 Speed; 1981 GMC 7000 Tandem Grain Truck - 366, 5 speed. 701-321-5711, John Kempf, Ashley.

JD 1971 4WD TRACTOR, mint condition excellent tires, new battery. Hutchenson grain cleaner with 2 augers and screens. Hydraulic log splitter. All items kept inside. 70 ft Dagelman straw master. Antique white treddle sewing machine with attachments excellent condition. Tread mill. 30 inch flat screen tv with remote. Call evening or leave a message: 701482-7749, Robert Huff, Donnybrook.

GRINDER MIXER, 355 New Holland grinder mixer with drag auger & unloading auger hyd. driven, good shape, $4500. Laymen stack mover, works good $1600. Super A IH tractor good tires & paint $3000. 701-400-5742, Gerald Miller, Mandan.

HAY, about 80 bales of 2024 upland hay, baled with JD 569, round baler, net wrap, never was stacked. 701-822-0878, Randy Hochstetler, Rolette.

ROUND HAY BALES, 5x6 ft, different types and different prices. 701-400-5742, Gerald Miller, Mandan.

WANTED

BALER HITCH, JD 336 square baler trailer hitch. 701-870-4498, Dale Bauer, Golden Valley.

OLD TRACTOR. I am looking for one of the following tractors. I would like it to run and drive and be in fair to good condition. 1950's Massey Harris 22 standard. A 1960 - 1970's Massey Ferguson 135 or a 1970's Massey Ferguson 231. Text me or call. 701-527-8949, Miles Bosch, Bismarck.

TRACTORS, IH 706, 806, 1206, 756, 856, 1256, 1456, 966, 1066, 1466, 1566, others; JD 4520, 4620, 5010, 5020, 6030; MM 950 on up; Olivers 1964 on up; AC 175, 200, 210, 220, D-21. Interested in all running or not. 701-6282130, Jerry Lumley , Stanley.

FOR SALE

SILVERADO, 2016 Chevrolet Silverado LT 3500 dually. Duramax engine. 57,000 miles and color is off white. Tires have roughly 15,000 miles on them. $45,000. 701-226-8766, John Albrecht, Mandan.

SADDLE, black silver spotted 15"seat saddle w/ tappadors $1800. Handmade Halliday ND 15"seat saddle$600, Quarter horse team harness W/ pads collars & bells $800. Single nylon harness $175. Wallets , handbags, knife & gun cases, holsters, cell phone cases, belts, chaps. 701-202-1174, Tom Liebel, Mandan.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, vintage Christmas Lights Large bulbs, four lengths maybe more 8 to 10 feet long. Maybe 2 more; 2 Way radio base station/Repeater Kenwood, like new, only used 3 times; Brass fireplace spark screen catcher, antique. 701-263-1206, Lathan Romsos, Bottineau.

ANVIL, 100# with good square edges on a sturdy metal stand; Advertising signs: IH sign, Massey Harris 96"x30" porcelain sign, Fertilizer Elephant Brand 60"x81" tin sign, Hardware Store Our Own 20'x25" porcelain sign, Paint Benjamin Moore 4'x6' porcelain sign, Coca Cola CI base, Pennzoil CI base. 701-220-5746, Val Ganje, Bismarck.

BOOKS, 1954 Whispering Wings booklet by Snorri Thorfinnson; 1996 Immanuel/ St. Peter Luther Leaque, Roseglen & Emmet, ND church cookbook (92 and 89th anniversaries); Nutrition and Nostalgia of a Century 1989 cookbook reprinted in 2012 Portal, ND; Dear Ray, This is my problem . . .by Ray Stueckle 1988, book with solutions for issues for different makes of combines. Call for prices. Call or text. 701-7200517, Penny McCormack, Devils Lake.

MILITARY ITEMS. WWI and WWII German, Japanese and American Military Items: Uniforms, Hats, Helmets, Medals, Badges, Patches, Flags, Knives, Bayonets, Daggers, Swords, Leather Flight Jackets and Guns, Lugers, etc.; WWII North Dakota 164th Infantry Regiment Items. jgrindahl@gmail.com or call/ text. 701-200-7125, John Grindahl, Fargo.

CLOTH BAGS, old North Dakota flour, grain, and seed cloth bags of any size to add to my personal collection; Please email pictures to ken@dlnsonconsulting.com. 701-290-4855, Ken Nelson, Dickinson.

WANTED

SIGNS, ADVERTISING, COLLECTIBLES. My son and I are looking for things to add to our collection. Old Signs, Farm Related, Gas & Oil, Advertising, Highway Signs, Railroad related items, License plates, oil cans, barber/salon items. Old items w/ small town advertisingmirrors, thermometers. Paying cash and will travel. Text/Call anytime. Would love to visit with you. Or stop and visit me along I-94. 701-9890495, Bryan Behm, Medina.

OLD STUFF, ND License plates, ND picked arrowheads, Advertising signs, ND metal trade tokens, old style gas pumps, oil cans, animal traps, old metal toys, old marbles, Red Wing crocks, silver dollars, or anything else that's old and interesting. Wanted signs with the Indian Head Logo, they could be road signs, coal signs or HP door signs. I will travel to your location paying in cash. 701-220-5746, Val Ganje, Bismarck.

WINDOW SWITCHES, power window switches for Ford F150 Lariat, 1985 or 1986 will work. Also, front passenger side fender, no rust please; Temperature control for 1999 Buick Park Avenue. Lights must work. 701-320-2466, Craig Neys, Jamestown.

PRAIRIE DOG HUNTERS to hunt on my land. Make reservations now. larryn@westriv.com. 701-548-8020, Larry Nagel, Shields.

AVOID VEHICLE DEER COLLISIONS

• Use high beam headlights and look for glowing eyes

• Pay attention to deer crossing signs

• Slow down, especially by wooded areas

• If a deer is on the road, brake firmly and stay in your lane