Nicollet County Ledger Novmber 5, 2023

November 5, 2023 | South Central News & Media

Oktoberfest Photos Page 6

Focus on Ag Page 2

Classifieds Page 4

Oktoberfest Rolls Out Again This Past Month With Visitors From Across Minnesota and Iowa October Event at August Schell Brewing in New Ulm Featured Music, Beverages, Games, Competitions, Activities and More

People in costumes (L to R): Joel, Albert Lea (8th Oktoberfest); Julie, Waldorf (8th Oktoberfest); and Craig, Albert Lea (8th Oktoberfest). See more photos on page 6.

Parks Master Plan Open House in St. Peter, Public Comments on Draft by ISG Engineering

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com 612-460-5851

The public weighed in on the future of the City of Saint Peter’s parks on October 25 at a parks master plan open house at the Saint Peter Community Center.

Research and engineering firm ISG was hired to create a planning documentation process the city could use to upgrade parks over a 20-year timeframe. This document is called the Parks Master Plan.

People in Saint Peter offered feedback to the city at the open house.

ISG completed a draft that was about 60 percent complete. Their findings

come from an evaluation of the city’s 22 parks and almost 60 miles of sidewalks and trails. The public was given opportunity to weigh in online with their feedback as well. Around 50 people attended the open house to provide feedback, according to reporting from the St. Peter Herald newspaper.

ISG will provide the final document to the Saint Peter City Council for approval on January 16.

The online survey generated 180 responses. Community members reportedly prioritized updating existing facilities, expanding/improving the trail system and emphasizing health and wellness. Recreation programming, sustainability, community partnership and building parks in underserved areas were lower priority, according to the data. There’s also public interest in a destination such

as an aquatic park, splash pad or city pool expansion.

Maps of destinations were laid out at the meeting for the public to mark on and provide reaction or feedback.

At Minnesota Square Park, the draft master plan includes resurfacing and lighting the tennis and basketball courts. There is also a recommendation to add a water bottle filling station to the pavilion in a few years. Over a

decade, the plan includes recommendations to update the playground, volleyball pit relocation, new restrooms, accessibility, skating rink with warming house and possibly a splash pad. A community garden was recommended in the public open house.

The public also commented on Riverside Park, where the Mill Pond

Continued on page 5

Candidate Forum for Saint Peter School Board Candidates Held in September

The Candidate Forum for Saint Peter School Board (ISD 508) Candidates was held on September 19. This forum was sponsored by the League of Women Voters, Chamber of Commerce and St. Peter Herald.

Saint Peter Holds Another Annual Halloween Fun Run Event

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com

side St. Peter High School on characters showed up to par- superheroes and scary villains.

Saint Peter’s annual Halloween October 28, just a few days ticipate, from cartoon characters More than 200 of them altogethFun Run took place just out- before Halloween. All kinds of and video game characters to er took part in the annual race.

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Ad From the Past

News from the Archives Saturday and Sunday with their father, W. C. Milliman, in Bernadotte.

They came here to observe Mr. 100 Years Ago – Feb. 14, 1920 Milliman’s birthday anniversary, Miss Anna Ebert is employed which was on Saturday. as domestic at the Reuben Lund 50 Years Ago – Feb. 19, 1970 home.

Those who spent the weekRobert Isenberg, H. E. Hedren and Henry Johnson attended the end at the Ambassador Motel in Oldsmobile dealers’ convention at Minneapolis as guests of Land O the Radisson hotel at Minneapolis Lakes were Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Berdan, Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon last week.

John Satterman will erect his Swenson, Mr. and Mrs. Richard saw mill at the John Lund farm Portner, Mr. and Mrs. Roger Isaacson two miles northeast from Lafayette. and Mr. and Mrs. Leo Marti.

Lois Wellnitz of Princeton spent Those who desire to have lumber sawed may haul the logs over there the weekend here with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Kurt Wellnitz. now at any time.

Those who gathered at the Gerald Buttermaker Sjostrom of Klossner Forst home Sunday to honor Robert transacted business here Monday.

Aug. A. Johnson has bought the Hamann who is home on furlough, former J. P. Sjogren residence on were, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Schroeder Church Street and will reside there and family of New Ulm, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Meyer and boys, Mr. after March 1st.

Alvin Fjell is installing booths and Mrs. Delton Hamann and famin the H. F. Anderson restaurant. ily, Mr. and Mrs. Greg Bieraugel This makes a great improvement and Mrs. Rose Hamann.

Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Maidl to Anderson’s ice cream parlor.

There will be a greater demand for and family went to the airport in ice cream hereafter, by the young Minneapolis Wednesday to get their daughter, Diane and Deanna folks.

Mrs. C. O. Gustafson of St. Schmitz, who returned that day Peter arrived here Thursday and from a five day visit at the Tony will stay at the Anton Malmberg Cranford home at Metairie, La. home for a while. With her came They also attended the Mardi Gras Curtis Malmberg who has been vis- at New Orleans while there.

Narve Nelson and Otis Muller iting with grandma Gustafson since returned Monday evening from a Christmas.

Pete and Albert Peterson of week’s fishing at Leech Lake with Alfsborg have rented the Freeman Mr. and Mrs. Harold Woods of Gibbon.

Anderson farm in New Sweden.

Forester members from this area Decorator Fjell is painting John who attended the C.O.F. Bowling Peterson’s Ford.

The local W.C.T.U. will meet with Tournament at St. Peter Sunday Mrs. T. F. Bergquist next Tuesday were Gerald, Richard and Ronald Seitz, Alphonse Goblirsch, Jerome afternoon, Feb. 17.

E. O. Abrahamson and family Weisensel, Leo Maidl, Marion and Henry Abrahamson visited Bushard and Clarence Maidl.

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hatch of at the Rudell home at Winthrop Rochester spent the weekend at the Sunday.

Miss Claudia Swenson of Otis Muller home.

Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Eckberg Minneapolis visited here over visited at the Carl Lund home in St. Sunday.

John Johnson of Parshall, N. D., Peter Friday evening. was a visitor with his bro-in-law C. NICOLLET LEADER H. Nelson over Sunday.

LAFAYETTE LEDGER

1929 — Lafayette Ledger

Travel News

MnDOT announces availability of $12.5 million in grants for Greater Minnesota community projects

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota communities, schools and their partners are invited to apply for funding on local projects that enhance transportation goals, the Minnesota Department of Transportation announced today.

The funding ($12.5 million in total) is available in federal funding through the Transportation Alternatives program in Greater Minnesota (each region has a sub-targeted fund). This program offers a competitive grant for communities, schools and regional agencies to fund pedestrian and bicycle facilities, historic preservation, Safe Routes to School and more.

For the 2023-24 solicitation, applicants first submit a letter of intent to be considered. A regional representative

Sunday, November 5, 2023

Except for telephonic communica- the Chester Nelson home Saturday tion, this village was cut off by the evening. drifting snow and extreme cold LAFAYETTE NICOLLET weather.

100 Years Ago – Feb. 14, 1920 Mrs. Henry Netzke visited her daughter at New Ulm the first of the week who has been ill.

George and William Lange of Oshawa township have gone to Sioux City, Iowa, to attend an automobile school.

Show your loyalty to the fire company by purchasing tickets for their annual ball to be given in the Nicollet opera house tonight.

The ladies of the Progressive Banner will give an apron sale for the benefit of the auxiliary in the local auxiliary parlors Saturday afternoon, Feb. 21.

Henry Epper and family are getting comfortably settled in their new, large and modern residence on West Fourth Street, having moved in during the week.

Three auctions are booked for this vicinity in the near future. The sale of Louis Wenholz will occur on February 20. August Schroeder will conduct a sale on February 27th, and H. C. Fricke will close out his personal property on March 4th.

Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Johnson of Langdon, N. D., the latter a sister of J. H. Meurer, arrived here last Friday for an extended visit with relatives in Nicollet and vicinity.

Mr. Johnson was an old time resident of Nicollet and in his early days drove a stage between New Ulm and St. Peter.

Dr. E. F. Vogelpohl, Nicollet’s resident dentist, opened up for business in the former Dr. Meilicke’s office this week. His office is modernly equipped in every respect for his dental practice. Dr. Vogelpohl was called out of town today but will be on deck again Monday morning.

LEDGER

25 Years Ago – Feb. 16, 1995 Congratulations to Peter Anthony, son of Willis and Rachel Anthony, for being named to the Dean’s List at Bethany College. Also to Michael Gunderson, son of Darwin and Brenda Gunderson, who also made the Dean’s List at the University of Minnesota, Morris.

Sharon Gaalswyk, Karen Gaalswyk, Cheryl Epper and Joyce, manager of the Budgetel Motel went to dinner at Charley’s and saw the play at the University in Mankato, “Stepping Out.” Kevin and Jeanette Hewitt of Cleveland entertained Sunday afternoon in honor of their daughter, Heather’s 4th birthday. Among those present were Earl and Evie Nelson of Norseland, Bob and Donna Hewitt of St. Peter, Darren and Corrinne Ely, and Angie Seitzer of Cleveland.

Darryl and Barbara Stevensen and Mr. and Mrs. Wade Zieske of rural New Ulm flew to Florida last week to spend time with Barbara’s parents, Herb and Jolene.

Good winter weather has allowed all aspects of construction for the new InLaws Restaurant at Nicollet to proceed. The business, located at the corner of Highways 14 and 111 in Nicollet, is slated to open in early spring.

Herring Trucking of Lafayette put up a new building on the old railroad right-of-way property over the winter. It’s behind the city disposal plant. The 40 X 75 foot building has space for two trucks and will give the Herrings a place to wash their trailers when they return from trips. Final details are being completed and the building should be ready for use in a few weeks.

will contact applicants to help review the project proposal and the steps necessary for delivering a funded project.

Applicants will then submit a full grant application.

Projects selected for the Transportation Alternatives program must be implemented in 2028.

Grant solicitation timeline: Friday, Nov. 3, 2023 – Deadline for applicants to submit letters of intent.

Friday, Jan. 12, 2024 – Deadline 10 Years Ago – Feb. 18, 2010 85 Years Ago – Feb. 16, 1935 for applicants to submit full applicaNicollet senior Jordan Rudenick About 7:30 Monday morning, tions. surpassed the 1,000 point career the fire department was called to Monday, April 15, 2024 – Grant mark in a make-up game with St. 115 Years Ago – Feb. 18, 1905 the farm home of Henry Ott where 75 Years Ago – Feb. 16, 1945 recipients announced.

Clair Saturday afternoon. Rudenick, The personal property taxes are a bad chimney fire was raging.

W. H. Krohn and family visited For grant details see the Transpora four-year player for the Nicollet due March 1st, and unless paid by There was no damage. at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert tation Alternatives website at mndot.

High School, has been a consistent that time a penalty of 10 percent Emil Starke has been busy for Swartz in St. Paul, Sunday. gov/ta/. the past two weeks cutting logs scorer for the Raiders and is a good Mrs. Justine Jacobson enter- will be added.

The fifth of its series of club and sawing lumber for a new barn all-around player. tained a group of ladies at her home Congratulations to Steve and Saturday afternoon in observance dances was given by the Nicollet which he will have erected on his Barb Hulke of Courtland on becomDancing Club at Blank’s hall farm this spring. of her birthday anniversary.

Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Wyngarden ing grandparents for the first time.

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Nelson Tuesday evening. The Nicollet and children, who spent several Little Hannah Hulke was born to of Winthrop, Mrs. Theo. Ostrom orchestra furnished the music.

Do not forget the special school months with Mr. and Mrs. Carl their son and daughter-in-law, Brent and Grace, of New Sweden, visI-90 in 1978, concrete panels near Blue ited Sunday afternoon at the Arthur meeting to be held on Saturday Netzke returned to their home at and Andria, February 7.

Earth were tinted gold, reminiscent of Flygare home in Bernadotte.

The fourth annual Polar Plunge evening, February 25th. It is impor- Tappen, N.D., Wednesday. the ‘Golden Spike’ that symbolized Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Kettner, at Lake Hallett in St. Peter Sunday Mr. and Mrs. Delphin Anderson tant that all interested in school completion of the nation’s first trans- and children, Duane and Gladys, matters should attend this meeting. Mrs. L. W. Kettner, Mrs. E. A. was even bigger and better than the continental railroad in 1869. In 2006, were entertained at dinner Sunday The school rooms at present are so Zimmermann and Mrs. Aug. Thom, first three. A total of 313 “human when I-90 needed repaving, most of the at the Gerald Wise home in New overcrowded that early provision Jr. visited relatives at Truman on plungers” raised more than $44,000 golden panels were paved over. As part Sweden. The afternoon was spent needs to be made for an extra room Monday. The latter two remained for Special Olympics. Those numof the 2023-2024 construction project, at the Orville Quist home near St. and teacher for same. bers are up from 110, 165, and 196 for a week’s stay. the golden panels will be reestablished Peter.

The farmers of Brighton townAug. Koetting of Courtland plungers and $21,000, $28,500, and in their same locations across both the Miss Elaine Isenberg, daughter ship will build a co-operative township was seriously injured, $30,000 in the first three. Nicollet eastbound and westbound lanes of of Mr. and Mrs. Delphin Isenberg of creamery near the place of Adam Wednesday morning, when a County Sheriff Dave Lange and his I-90.

Cornish, has completed a course in Jutz, on the southwest corner of sec- shed, which he was tearing down, group opened the plunge. Nicollet Benefits of the project include im- beauty culture, and also passed the tion 3, and are busy hauling mate- suddenly collapsed, pinning him American Legion Post 510 was repproved pavement, bridges, drainage, state board examinations, thereby rial for the same now. They will underneath. His right hip and his resented by Del Vulcan and Bruce and lighting. Other benefits include receiving the license for such work. commence with the erection soon right leg were broken.

Connelly. The gals went first and the improved sidewalks at the Blue Earth A social evening was spent at the guys followed when the Courtland Raymond Quandt, Hugo Albrecht as the weather permits and will Rest Areas to comply with the Ameri- and Arthur Schaeffler, members hold a meeting on Saturday, March home of Miss Norma and Gordon Fire Department jumped. Group cans with Disability Act. PCiRoads was of the board of Lafayette town- 4th, for the purpose of organizing. Ott Wednesday evening. The time members were Pam Meyer, Mary awarded the design-build project with a ship, went to St. Peter, Monday, and A Judson correspondent says a was spent in playing “bunco” with Luepke, Jenna Krueger, Danielle bid of $80,192,151.70. attended the annual weed confer- party from Nicollet, who has been high honors going to Miss Viola Bode, Dave Ubel, Leon Luepke, Jon Visit the I-90 project website for ence, which was held in the court cutting ice, had the misfortune of Bode and Harvey Enter and Miss Rewitzer, Brandon Matter, Adam more information and to sign up for room of the court house. journeying to the river bottom, Elvira Enter and Harold Heidemann, Marti, and Pat Stadick. Lafayette email and text message updates.

Mrs. Martha Carlson and Mrs. rather a disagreeable experience, low. At midnight a delicious lunch Ambulance “Team McFreezies” For real-time traffic and travel infor- LeRoy Anderson spent last week- though the distance traveled was was served. included Kim Schwab, Daryl mation in Minnesota, visit www.511mn. end in the twin cities. only twelve feet. He then drove Peter Jutz came down Monday Trautmiller, Kevin Reinhart, Jay org or get the free smartphone app at Carl Youngblom of St. Paul home six miles, in his wet clothes, from Pierz with a truck load of Carlson, Jessi Gieseke, Collin Google Play or the App Store. and his roommate, Tom Kostuch, which were certainly stiff upon potatoes which he is selling very Gieseke, and Marti Uhde.

Andrew and Lisa Quist of returned to St. Paul Monday eve- him by the time he arrived. Do you cheap.

Mrs. Martin Zins and daughters Norseland were among nearly 90 ning, after a few days visit with know him?

The blizzard we had Tuesday spent Thursday at Nicollet with her Minnesota Farm Bureau members the former’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. who attended the Minnesota Farm worked havoc with the train ser- sister, Mrs. R. J. Dauffenbach.

Clarence Youngblom.

Joyce and Allen Erickson, Henry Bureau Federation Promotion and Misses Betty and Bonnie vice. No trains went either way Milliman, students of the Hamline until the following morning when Maritz, Margie Monson and Mrs. Education Conference January University, Minneapolis, spent the snowplow cleared the tracks. Ella Johnson were entertained at 29-30 in Bloomington. the 78 percent harvested by that date in 2022 and was above the 5-year average of 67 percent harvested. In the Upper Midwest, South Dakota led the way with 90 percent of the soybeans harvested by October 22, followed by Minnesota at 88 percent, Iowa at 87 percent, North Dakota at 85 percent, and Nebraska at 83 percent. All states were slightly behind soybean harvest progress a year ago in late October but were Nicollet County Ledger (USPS 301420) ahead of the 5-year average progServing Nicollet County Since 1904 published weekly by the South Central News & Media LLC . ress. Other soybean harvest figures PO BOX 212, Lafayette, MN 56054 as of October 22 were Illinois at 80 Periodicals postage paid at Lafayette, MN and additional mailing offices. percent, Indiana at 65 percent, Ohio at 64 percent, and Wisconsin, at 69 Postmaster: percent.

Send address changes to PO Box 212, Lafayette, MN 56054.

It was estimated that 59 percent Subscribe: Subscriptions are non-refundable.

DEADLINE: Noon Monday for advertising, news, photos and new subscriptions or subscription changes. of the corn in the U.S. was harvested

by October 22, which was the same 1 YEAR PRINT EDITION: Mail: Robert Lawson, Publisher as on that date in 2022 and compares P.O. Box 212, Lafayette, MN 56054 In Minnesota ... $45.00 and Managing Editor Name to a 5-year average of 54 percent of Out-of-State ... $50.00 Office: PO BOX 212, Lafayette, MN the corn harvested. Illinois was the Send this form and check to 56054 ADDRESS facebook.com/ leader in harvested corn acres in the P.O. Box 212, Lafayette MN 56054 Hours: Call ahead for hours. or go to nicolletcountyledger.com Midwest with 70 percent harvested, nicolletcountyledger to use followed by Iowa, Minnesota, and CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE Phone: 507-246-6248 a debit or credit card.

Nebraska, all at 62 percent harSimon and Sons Pvt. Ltd. vested. Other corn harvest figures in Email: Layout & Design

Construction on westbound Interstate 90 east of Blue Earth wraps up 2023 MANKATO, Minn. – Construction on westbound Interstate 90 east of Blue Earth is nearing completion for 2023, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The entrance ramp at Faribault County Road 23 is expected to open to traffic tonight, Oct. 27, and head-to-head traffic restrictions will be removed.

Motorists are reminded that construction on I-90 east of Blue Earth is a two-year project. The westbound lanes were under construction in 2023, and the eastbound lanes will be under construction next year. Pavement at the eastbound and westbound I-90 rest areas west of Blue Earth will be improved as part of the 2024 project.

The 2023-2024 project includes resurfacing approximately 20 miles of I-90 from Highway 169 near Blue Earth to Highway 22 south of Wells.

Both eastbound and westbound I-90 will be improved, as well as ramps, bridges, culverts, and lighting along the project.

To commemorate the completion of

Focus on Ag

RAIN AND EARLY SNOWFALL

SLOWS HARVEST IN SOME AREAS

By Kent Thiesse

Farm management analyst kent.thiesse@minnstarbank.com

The 2023 Fall harvest season had been progressing at a fairly nice pace across most of the Upper Midwest from late September until mid-October; however, since that point some areas have experienced substantial rainfall, isolated hailstorms, and even early snowfall in some locations, along with much colder temperatures by the end of October. These conditions have slowed harvest progress in portions of the Upper Midwest. Fortunately, most of the soybeans and a significant amount of corn had been harvested by late-October at many locations. Overall, the corn and soybean yield levels in many areas have been highly variable but the overall quality of this year’s crop has been quite favorable for most producers.

Based on the USDA Crop Progress Report on October 22, it was estimated that 76 percent of the soybeans in the U.S. had been harvested, which was very similar to

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Sunday, November 5, 2023

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Nicollet County Ledger

MnDOT seeks applicants for rail service improvement program grants

$9.6 million available for railroads, cities, counties, rail shippers ST. PAUL, Minn. – Railroads, rail shippers, cities and counties are encouraged to apply for up to $9.6 million in available grants for projects that will improve freight rail service that supports economic development, the Minnesota Department of Transportation announced today. The funding is available through the 2023 Minnesota Rail Service Improve-

ment Program. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Dec. 15, 2023.

The funding was approved during the 2023 legislative session.

“The MRSI program helps build essential railroad infrastructure that is part of Minnesota’s critical freight transportation network,” said Megan Neeck, MRSI program manager. “This

round of funding will continue to enhance that network, and help Minnesota businesses and local economies compete in a global marketplace.”

Examples of projects eligible for MRSI funding include railroad tracks, roadbeds, turnouts, bridges, fixed loading/unloading equipment and buildings. Funding cannot be used for regular or

recurring maintenance activities, incomplete or phased projects, or engineering, design and right of way acquisition costs.

MRSI webinar with Q&A session scheduled Nov. 15 Those interested in applying for MRSI funding are invited to join MnDOT and others for an Informational webinar with Q&A session on Wednesday, Nov. 15,

from 1 to 2 p.m. Join here via Microsoft Teams.

Grant applications, MRSI program details and more information about the webinar are available at mndot.gov/ofrw/railroad/ mrsi-grant.html.

A MnDOT project selection team will review and score eligible applications. Award recipients will be notified in April

2024.

The MRSI program has administered more than $68 million in loans and grants for capital improvement projects since it was established in 1976 to strengthen the state’s shipping economy.

The program was given authority to issue grants for freight rail service improvements that support economic development in 2017.

The opening of Highway 14 from New Ulm to Nicollet to thru-traffic will be delayed by approximately one month, the Minnesota Department of Transportation said today.

Originally anticipated to open in mid-October, officials now expect Highway 14 to open to thru-traffic in mid-November due to concrete paving delays.

MnDOT is working closely with the contractor and anticipates concrete paving on the project will resume in mid-October.

Additional construction work remaining before the highway can open to traffic includes paving bituminous shoulders, installing guardrail and signage, striping, and adding rumble strips.

The new interchanges at County Road 37 near New Ulm and County Road 12/24 near Courtland opened to local traffic in mid-September.

“We understand the public is eager for the completion of this long-awaited expansion project and appreciate contin-

ued patience and understanding as crews work to complete this project,” said Victoria Nill, assistant district engineer for construction. “We look forward to celebrating when Highway 14 opens to thru-traffic later this year.”

Traffic has been detoured to Highways 15, 68 and 169 since the start of the project spring 2022. After Highway 14 opens to traffic in mid-November, construction on the project is expected to continue with little

impact to traffic until the contractual completion date of the project in June 2024.

Highway 14 from New Ulm to Nicollet has been under construction since spring 2022 to improve safety and travel for this important freight and trade corridor. Overall, the project on Highway 14 between New Ulm and Nicollet is approximately 12.5 miles in length and will complete a continuous fourlane road between New Ulm and Rochester.

Improvements include: Converting the existing twolane highway to a four-lane divided highway Bypassing Courtland by realigning Highway 14 north of the city Constructing new interchanges in Courtland and at County Road 37 in New Ulm Constructing safer intersections at New Ulm Quartzite Quarries and Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School Adding turn lanes

Installing snow fence between Courtland and Nicollet to prevent excessive blowing and drifting snow Hoffman Construction is the prime contractor.

Project information is available online at: https://mndot.gov/d7/ projects/14newulmtonmankato/ index.html.

For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.

By Michael Tidemann

their fields drill down to the heart of the problem. While Iowa is the most productive state in the nation for many ag commodities, there has also been a price in topsoil depletion, nitrogen and phosphorous runoff from drain tile and an overall impact on the state’s flora and fauna.

The selections by farmers and conservations, however, tell many success stories of what has worked in reversing the impact of nearly 200 years of agriculture in Iowa.

Mutel puts it quite plainly in her preface: “In truth, although our environmental problems are worsening, we largely know how to solve them. It’s not solutions that we are lacking, it’s the collective will to enact them.”

Kathleen Woida, who holds a

Ph.D. in geology from the University of Iowa, says in her article, “The Root of Our Problems – Iowa’s Degraded Soils,” the state on average has lost half its former topsoil depth built over the millennia.

Keith E. Schilling, state geologist of Iowa, and Christopher S. Jones, research engineer at the University of Iowa, in another article tell us: “The transition from the dominance of point sources to nonpoint sources has been a huge change for Iowa, and with this change our most common pollutants are now traced to agriculture, nitrate, phosphorous, sediment, bacteria, and other mixed contaminants.”

Mutel’s collection also includes inspiring essays by farmers and others who have found solutions

and possibly a way to reverse these trends.

In the essay “Curtailing Climate Change on the Farm” Francis Thicke, an organic dairy farmer near Fairfield, Iowa, tells us, “Regenerative agriculture, instead, is based on the principles of mimicking nature and harnessing the energy and the organizing power of nature’s ecology, rather than trying to overpower nature with fossil fuels.”

This is a great book for anyone interested in helping the environment as well as farmers who want to ensure continued productivity of their land. Beyond that, it would be a great core textbook for an environmental studies class.

(Michael Tidemann writes from Estherville, Iowa. His Website is michaeltidemann.my.canva.site.)

Highway 14 opening delayed on New Ulm to Nicollet four-lane expansion project

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Collection describes land challenges and solutions Tending Iowa’s Land: Pathways to a Sustainable Future Cornelia E. Mutel, Ed. University of Iowa Press ISBN 978-1-60938-873-7 Several books have come down the pike recently about the impact of agriculture on the Midwest, and Iowa and particular. However, Tending Iowa’s Land: Pathways to a Sustainable Future shows not just challenges but solutions to the impact of agriculture on Iowa’s landscape.

Editor Cornelia Mutel has assembled a variety authors – both academics and farmers – who have provided an objective assessment of the past impact of farming in Iowa. The meticulously documented selections by experts in

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ASK A TROPPER

By Sgt. Troy Christianson Minnesota State Patrol

Question: Are smoked tail lights illegal in Minnesota?

Answer: Minnesota law states that “tail lamps shall be plainly visible from a distance of 100 feet to the rear during normal sunlight and at night.”

The same goes for turn signals and headlights. Smoking, tinting, covering or placing any material over tail lights, brake lights, headlights or turn signals would be illegal and unsafe as they would not be plainly visible. It is illegal in all 50 states, because it is a major safety concern.

I recommend getting into the habit of checking and keeping your rear lights clear of any snow, mud, dirt, dust or anything that can obstruct your lights.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and of course, drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48 th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848. or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state. mn.us.

info@nicolletcountyledger.com

How Houthi attacks affect both the IsraelHamas conflict and Yemen’s own civil war – and could put pressure on US, Saudi Arabia Yemen’s Houthi movement launched missiles and drones at Israel on Oct. 31, 2023 – provoking fears of a dangerous escalation of the Middle East conflict.

With the militia – which controls part of the Arabian Peninsula state – vowing further attacks, Israel countered by sending missile boats to the Red Sea. They join U.S. warships already deployed in the area.

The Conversation U.S. turned to Mahad Darar, a Yemeni politics expert at Colorado State University, to explain what is behind the Houthis’ involvement in the war – and how it could risk not only widening the conflict but reigniting hostilities in Yemen itself.

Who are the Houthis?

The Houthi group, also known as Ansar Allah, is an armed militia of the Zaydi Shia sect in Yemen. They ousted Yemen’s transitional government led

by Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi in a 2014 coup and have since been engaged in a bloody civil war with the ousted administration, which is backed

by Saudi Arabia. A truce has stemmed fighting in the country, with the Houthis currently in control of most of northern

Yemen.

Why did the Houthis attack Israel?

In the first analysis, one can argue that the Houthis are part of a broader regional alliance with Iran. As such, the attack on Israel can be seen as showcasing both the Houthis’ – and Iran’s – military capabilities to both local and regional audiences. Indeed, some analysts argue that the reason Tehran supplied the Houthis with long-range missiles was so it could pose a threat to both Israel and also Tehran’s rival in the region: Saudi Arabia.

However, although it may seem that the Houthis are acting as an Iranian proxy, the main reason the militia launched the attack could be to gain domestic support. Houthi leadership may be trying to present the group as the dominant force in Yemen willing to challenge Israel – a country that is generally unpopular in the Arab world.

This approach helps the Houthis outmaneuver local rivals and unite the Yemeni public behind the cause of Palestinian liberation. It also allows the militia to carve out a unique stance in the region, setting them apart from Arab governments that have so far

been unwilling to take strong action against Israel – such as severing ties in the case of more Israel-friendly states, such as United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and others.

In particular, the Houthis will want to present a different face to the Arab world than Saudi Arabia, which had been looking to normalize ties with Israel. Saudi Arabia, it should be added, is the main backer of the internationally recognized Yemeni government – one of the Houthis’ main opponents in the civil war.

It is also important to note that there appears to be growing popular discontent in Arab countries over the perceived weak stance of their governments toward Israel. But due to the authoritarian nature of many of these regimes, public opinion has little influence on policy.

This does not, of course, change the fact that the Houthis themselves run a theocratic regime with no democratic values.

Plus, launching a missile or a couple of drones is relatively cheap for the Houthis, especially considering the benefits they might gain from the ac-

tion.

How could the Houthi attack affect the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Some analysts have suggested that an attack by the Houthis heightens the chances of overwhelming Israel’s defense systems, if it forms part of a coordinated effort involving Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

But this idea falls short for two reasons: First, the Houthis likely have fewer ballistic missiles than Hezbollah and Hamas and realistically stand little chance of inflicting much damage on Israel. Moreover, they will be mindful of keeping these missiles for their own use in the ongoing civil war in Yemen – which poses a more immediate threat to the group than Israel does.

The threat from the Houthis toward Israel is far smaller than both Hezbollah and Hamas, whose fighters can cross a land border to enter Israel.

Second, the imprecision of the Houthi missiles means that any attack also poses a risk to countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan, as these

Continued on page 5

STATEWIDE

Sunday, November 5, 2023

Week of April 2, 2023 CentralNicollet County South North Ledger

Metro

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Sunday, November 5, 2023

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Nicollet County Ledger

Focus on Ag Continued From Page 2 the October 22 report were South Dakota at 48 percent harvested, North Dakota at 45 percent, and Indiana at 42 percent; however, Wisconsin and Ohio had only 26 percent and 20 percent of the corn harvested as of October 22. By comparison, most states, except Wisconsin and Ohio, were similar or slightly ahead of the corn harvest pace a year ago and exceeded the 5-year average level of corn harvested by this date.

Corn harvest in Minnesota has progressed more rapidly in the southwest and west central Minnesota, as well as adjoining areas of eastern South Dakota and western Iowa, with many farmers nearing completion harvest for the 2023 growing season. Corn harvest in the eastern half of Minnesota, especially in southeast Minnesota, eastern Iowa, and Wisconsin has been somewhat slower due to wetter field conditions and having crops that were a bit later maturing. The unexpected early wet snowfall in late October has greatly slowed corn harvest in many areas of North Dakota, northwest Minesota, and some portions of northern South Dakota. Normal planting dates in 2023, together with above normal growing degree units in the summer months in most areas, allowed most corn and soybeans to reach full maturity by the time of the first killing frost.

Overall, the reported soybean yields across the Midwest have been highly variable, mainly due to the limited rainfall during the growing season in a large portion of the region. The term “better-than-expected” was heard a lot when referring to 2023 soybean yields in many portions of southern Minnesota and northern Iowa, meaning that yields exceeded the somewhat dismal expectations, given the limited rainfall in many locations during June and July. Soybean yields were lower in areas that were hard hit by drought conditions this year, such as portions of southwest Iowa, eastern Nebraska and Missouri. On the other hand, many areas of the eastern Corn Belt experienced above average soybean yields in 2023. Most of the western and northern Corn Belt had soybean yields that were lower than the excellent yield levels of 2022, and the 2023 soybean yields were much more variable than a year ago.

2023 corn yields have also been highly variable in many areas and have been lower than the excellent 2022 corn yields in most portions of the Upper Midwest. Similar to soybeans, corn yields this year have seemed to be more consistent in the eastern Corn Belt, which benefitted from more favorable growing conditions in May and June than other areas. Just as with the soybeans, corn yields in some portions of the Upper Midwest have also been highly variable, depending on corn hybrids, planting dates, and the timeliness rainfall during the growing season. There have been some “whole field” yield reports of 200 bushels per acre or higher in southern Minnesota and northern Iowa; however, there have also been yield reports of 160-170 bushels per acre in the same general area. Overall, the 2023 corn yields in the Upper Midwest are not nearly as consistent as a year ago and for most farmers will be somewhat lower than their 2022 corn yields.

One piece of good news for producers regarding the 2023 corn harvest has been the har-

vest moisture of the corn coming out of the field. Most of the corn being harvested this Fall has been under 20 percent moisture, which has resulted in a reduced amount of additional drying that is required before the corn is placed in on-farm bins for storage. Corn should be dried to about 14-16 percent moisture before going into the grain bin for safe storage until next Spring or Summer. In fact, some corn has been harvested near that level and has been able to be placed in grain bins without additional drying. This can be a big savings in corn drying costs for farmers.

The test weight of the corn being harvested has also been a pleasant surprise this year, with most corn having a test weight of 56-59 pounds per bushel. The standard test weight when selling corn to grain markets is 56 pounds per bushel. Except for areas that were impacted by severe storms in the summer months or in recent weeks, the stalk strength of the corn has been fairly good this fall, which has resulted in very favorable harvest conditions. There could be some late season corn harvest challenges in the areas of North Dakota and Northwest Minnesota that received heavier amounts of snowfall in late October.

Fall tillage and manure applications have been occurring as soon as harvest is completed; however, those operations could be more challenging in many locations going forward, following the heavy rainfall and wet snowfall that have caused saturated topsoil conditions. This type of soil situation can make it difficult for quality tillage and may require leaving portions of fields without fall tillage or manure applications until next spring. In areas with more moderate rainfall, the added soil moisture has been beneficial for late fall tillage and manure application.

Producers in some areas of the region typically apply nitrogen fertilizer for the corn crop that will be raised in the following year, once the current year’s harvest is completed. It is recommended to wait until soil temperatures are 50 degrees Fahrenheit or lower to apply nitrogen in the fall in order to avoid significant losses; however, this should not be a concern anymore this fall, following the cold temperatures in late October. Farm operators are reminded to follow the statewide restrictions for fall nitrogen fertilizer application in their area.

Farmers should check with their State Department of Agriculture or Land Grant University for fall nitrogen application recommendations and requirements in their State.

The excessive rainfall that has been occurring in October in many portions of the Upper Midwest has delayed harvest in some areas; however, it has helped replenish depleted stored soil moisture levels across the region. The extremely dry growing season in 2023 had brought stored soil moisture levels in much of the region to very low levels. The late season rainfall in 2023 will certainly be helpful as a starting point for the 2024 growing season.

Many portions of the Upper Midwest were listed in “severe” to “extreme” drought by late September, based on the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The above normal rainfall in many areas of the northern Corn Belt has helped ease some of those concerns by late October.

Flying Dutchman Hillclimb this past summer just outside New Ulm.

Houthi Attacks, Israel-Hamas War

Continued From Page 3....

projectiles could land in their territories and cause damage. In fact, drones reportedly launched by the Houthis have already caused explosions after erroneously crashing in Egypt.

Could the Houthi attack affect US thinking on the conflict?

There is a scenario in which the Houthi attacks may benefit Israel. The strike plays into a narrative that Israel is facing a multi-front war sponsored

by Iran, potentially escalating tensions between Iran and both Israel and the United States.

And this could bolster the arguments of hawks within the U.S. foreign policy establishment who are pushing the U.S. toward a more confrontational stance against Iran.

On the flip side, any perceived threat from the Houthis gives Iran more of a negotiation card in the wider context of regional disputes such as over

Tehran’s nuclear program. Iran will be keen to position itself as a country with an array of proxies, capable of wreaking havoc in the region should it wish.

Could the attack be Iran’s bidding?

Houthi actions primarily serve their own interests rather than those of Iran.

And unlike Iranian-backed groups in Iraq and Syria – which have recently attacked U.S. troops – the Houthis have not targeted U.S. forces in the region. If the Houthis were truly in the same basket as other Iranian proxies, I believe they would have targeted the nearest U.S. stationed base, which is Djibouti.

But Houthi leadership will be mindful that such an attack would not only be unpopular among the Yemeni population but also would potentially come at a high cost to themselves.

Unlike Hezbollah and Hamas, which are focused on resisting Israeli oc-

cupation, the Houthis are primarily concerned with local issues within Yemen. Historically, member of the Zaydi Shia sect have managed Yemen’s issues without foreign support, going back hundreds of years before they were overthrown in 1962.

That said, the Houthis haven’t shied away from appearing aligned with Iran of late, mainly because they rely heavily on Iranian supplies of weapons.

What could this mean for the Yemen civil war?

Negotiations between Houthis, Saudis and the Saudi-led coalition backing the Yemeni government forces are at a delicate point.

Recently, it was reported that the Houthis killed four Saudi soldiers just days after Saudi Arabia shot down a missile from the Houthis that was headed for Israel.

In the latest Houthi attack, the missiles

passed through Saudi territory uninterrupted before being shot down by Israel. It is unclear whether this is an indication that the Saudis heeded the Houthis’ warning, which is potentially why they didn’t shoot down the latest missiles. To know more about the true state of Saudi-Houthi negotiations, there needs to be greater evidence, such as increased clashes between the Saudis and Houthis, or even a direct attack by the Houthis on Saudi Arabia.

But if Houthi missile attacks escalate in the coming days, it could put Saudi Arabia in a difficult spot. At that point, the Saudis would face a difficult choice. They could allow the Houthis’ missiles to continue passing through their land or they could try to shoot them down. But that would risk jeopardizing diplomatic efforts with both the Houthis and Iran. And that, I feel, seems very unlikely.

is located and the draft included plans for improvements to convert the parkside destination into an urban camping area. It would include areas for mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing and fishing and more.

Community Spirit Park will add 100 trees and some walking tracks.

A dog park was viewed favorable by many.

Jefferson Park will be the site of a park and trail network open to the

public over the next 15 years.

Hallett Park plans include the development of a picnic area and beach area. Traverse Des Sioux’s Natural Resource Area might include replacing existing trail bridges and

expanding the park all the way to Highway 99 to a walking trail. Prairie Ridge, Stones Park and Ramsey Park will also see upgrades of play equipment and other structural improvements.

St Peter Parks Master Plan Public Input

Continued From Page 1....

North Mankato Fun Days Photos From This Past Summer 2023

Electrical crews work to perform maintenance on an EV charger that has been out of commission for many months in North Mankato.

The Nicollet County Ledger is more than a newspaper. It’s THE place you turn to find out what’s going on in the community, and it’s where you learn about decisions that affect you. It’s the place to catch up with the people you know. It’s a forum for sharing your opinions on issues important to you, and it’s the place to find out what your neighbors think.

Page 6

Nicollet County Ledger

Sunday, November 5, 2023

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