Spring 2017 New Mexico Farm & Ranch

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NEW MEXICO FARM AND LIVESTOCK BUREAU®

Calhoun Sisters, a Local Flower Success Story Walking Trout Farm, Organic Farmers of the Year Deep Holes, Deep Questions Page 1

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New Mexico Farm & Ranch

Spring 2017

NMF&LB President’s Column TRACTOR SEAT DAYDREAMING

BY CRAIG OGDEN

All In It Together I was informed that this newsletter goes out to all the Farm Bureau membership, those classified as agricultural and associate (non-ag). I have addressed the agricultural members before, so I would like to take this time to visit with our other members that are also an intricate part of what we do and why we do it.

New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau is an advocacy organization that supports all types of New Mexico agriculture, but I believe what we do also benefits all the citizens of New Mexico. Whether it is protecting your private property rights, keeping regulations in check, working on tax issues, educating our youth, or just helping farmers and ranchers supply locally grown, safe and affordable food and fiber to you.

historic and philanthropic organization.

Presently, we are assisting and considering other avenues to help the fire victims in our bordering states. Farm Bureau members and the state organization are giving supplies to help build fences, send feed, and monetary contributions to assist in this catastrophic fire. Seeing the pictures and reading the stories pulls on the heart so deeply that it is difficult to describe. But we all come together, individuals, other ag related organizations and businesses. It is the way rural communities work and you are a part of that effort. There is a disaster fund set up in the state office if you would like to be of further assistance.

There are many funds being set up, do your homework and give to one you feel confident with even if it isn’t ours.

“I believe what we do also benefits all the citizens of New Mexico.”

This year is NMF&LB’s Centennial. I hope you will consider attending some of the events that will be going on throughout the state because you are Farm Bureau also.

There are member benefits that I am sure you are aware of, like discounts with CAT, GM, Grainger, and Choice Hotels, just to name a few. I would like to think these are just perks to you as a member. The real benefit of being a member is not these benefits or in some cases a requirement for services, but the mere fact that being a member of our organization has a greater stand-alone value. You are part of the history of the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau, from the beginning, where it started in Doña Ana County, to its present state. I hope you feel proud to belong to such a Page 2

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New Mexico Farm & Ranch

As we evaluate the past 100 years it is evident that our progress is a result of the combined efforts of people in all facets that support agriculture. Each of us can make a difference. Let’s all work together with purpose and meaning to make the next 100 years as notable as our first. Do Justly, Love mercy, Walk Humbly.

Sierrra County Farm & Livestock Bureau Centennial BBQ Friday, May 5, 12:00 - 3:00 Tractor Supply Spring 2017

AFBF President’s Column BEYOND THE FENCEROWS

BY ZIPPY DUVALL

Farmers and Ranchers Ready for Action in 2017 If ever there was a time for farmers and ranchers across America to get outside our fencerows, 2017 is it. Many of agriculture’s major policy issues are in the headlines every day. It’s time to engage.

We are encouraged by the quick attention Congress and the administration are giving to issues like regulatory reform and federal land management. Farmers breathed a collective sigh of relief with President Trump’s executive order to withdraw the Waters of the U.S. rule and with congressional action to roll back the Obama administration’s Planning 2.0 rule for federal lands. But we know the work is far from over on these and other issues facing America’s farmland. Lawmakers need to hear from each of us, the very people impacted every day by the regulations and policies they create.

up nearly 20 percent. Lawmakers need to hear from farmers like you who have seen crops go to waste because you couldn’t find the workers you needed to keep your farm running. Farmers and ranchers are ready for a balanced solution that allows us to keep up with the demand for American-grown food.

Domestic and international markets alike are important for keeping U.S. farmers in business. American-grown products have a reputation for being the best in the world.

But being the best won’t protect us from high tariffs or nonscientific trade barriers abroad. We need new markets that give American farmers and ranchers a level playing field worldwide.

And no matter what you may hear about manufacturing, that’s exactly what trade agreements have done for American agriculture. Take NAFTA for example: our agricultural exports to Canada and Mexico have more than quadrupled since that agreement was passed. With dropping commodity prices and farm incomes down, expanding trade is critical to the health of the rural economy. We already export nearly one-quarter of our output. We simply cannot walk away from the rest of the world and continue to prosper.

“It’s not enough to simply list what we do and don’t want.”

It’s not enough to simply list what we do and don’t want.

We need to talk about how these issues affect our businesses and everyday life. And while we’re excited to see movement on regulatory reform, that’s not the only issue on the front burner for Farm Bureau. Access to new markets and a stable workforce are also top priorities. If we’re going to see our rural economies prosper, farm and ranch businesses must be given room to succeed and grow. We need to be able to hire the workers required to grow America’s food. Farm Bureau supports keeping our borders secure, but we know what’s at stake for agriculture if reasonable visa reform is left off the table. Already this year, demand for H-2A workers is Page 3

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There are numerous versus in the Bible about the importance of witnessing and personal testimony. In Matthew 9:37-38, Jesus said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, there see “READY” pg 10 Spring 2017

Organic Farmer of the Year

By Sage Faulkner, Facilitator, New Mexico Organic Farming Conference In a rebuttal

ER

TA

to statistics showing the average age of New Mexico farmers is rising, New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau and Fred Porter, of Farm Bureau Financial Services, initiated the Young Organic Farmer of the Year award in 2014.

The award, which includes $500 for the recipient to use on their farming operation, is given annually at the New Mexico Organic Farming Conference. Walking Trout Farm, Joseph and Melissa Marcoline, of Velarde, NM, are the 2017 recipients.

Growers of early season vegetables, melons, flowers and tomatoes, the Marcolines utilize greenhouse and high DRINKING WATER TANKS tunnel production to capture customer demand. Building their farm from the ground up, the Marcolines have HEAVY DUTY ROOF & Recommendations SIDE WALL Final Logo focused on soil and water improvements on their high FDA/NSF COMPLIANT FOR POTABLE WATER dessert land.

NRCS APPROVED On hand to give the award were Craig Ogden, LEAD FREE CERTIFICATION NMF&LB President, Chad Smith, NMF&LB CEO and E T R S N Fred Porter, Farm Bureau Financial Services Agent.

WE “These young farmers are bringing people back to the farms and re-educating the consumer one salad, one vegetable and walk through a field at a time. Indeed, the farmer markets and local farms are gaining a resurgence NK L I in becoming the agricultural classroom once again and I & TRA am proud to support and be connected with this growing Designed to perform better energy,” said Mr. Porter.

The conference, held annually in Albuquerque and organized by the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau and the New Mexico State University’s Cooperative Extension Service, attracted almost 700 participants. “It’s a great opportunity for established organic farmers to create new business Designed to perform better connections while beginners can get expert advice,” said Chad Smith, NMF&LB CEO. CERTIFIED DEALER OF ENDURAPLAS PRODUCT For more information on next year’s conference being www.westerntank.com held February 16-17, 2018, go to www.nmofc.org.

CALL NOW 1 888 999 8265

Photo courtesy of Jane Moorman, NMSU Cooperative Extension Services.

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New Mexico Farm & Ranch

Spring 2017

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New Mexico Farm & Ranch

Spring 2017

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Offer available through 4/1/17. Eligible models subject to change without notice.

This offer available with all other offers, excluding discounted pricing (military, employee, dealership employee and supplier pricing). Only customers who have been active members of an eligible Farm Bureau for a minimum of 30 days will be eligible to receive a certificate. Farm Bureau and the FB logo are registered service marks of the American Farm Bureau Federation and are used herein under license by General Motors. Certificates do expire.

Program subject to change without notice. See dealer for complete details.

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New Mexico Farm & Ranch

Members can save up to 30% off the catalog prices on more than one million products. Count on Grainger to provide the supplies you need to get the job done! Call (800)202-2594 Account 855922068

WILD AT WORK - Theme park discount tickets Register for FREE at wildatwork.com. When prompted, enter New Mexico Farm Bureau as your organization.

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Spring 2017

ach: e r t u O n o i t a c Edu You Make it Possible!

Free Educational Resources

Connecting students to agriculture and making learning relevant!

Thank you to all of our members that make it possible for NMAITC to visit classrooms across the state.

Visit nmaitc.org!

Discover how to: • Make a classroom visit request • Access free K-12 lessons and hands-on activities that provide strong ag background information • Learn about upcoming grants, awards, & workshops • E-newsletter sign-up • Donate money or time to a classroom!

NM Ag Literacy Project:

nmaitc.org

It’s not too late to schedule a date…

for “The Beeman” Ag Literacy Project. With each classroom visit, you receive a copy of the book, educator’s guide, hands-on lesson, poster and pollinator friendly seeds!

Program sponsorship provided by Wells Fargo Bank and NM Agriculture Education-FFA.

Contact Cheryl at agclass1@nmflb.org to schedule a presentation.

Mora/ San Miguel Farm Bureau AGvocate, Rosalie Lopez reads to students in her community!

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New Mexico Farm & Ranch

Thank you to our generous sponsors: • Ag New Mexico Farm Credit: Farm Credit Business & Professional Women • First National Bank: Alamogordo • Southwest Cheese Spring 2017

A

bloomin� SUCCESS

A business that started with a ¼ acre of land is now fulfilling the dreams of two sisters. Floriography was established by Emily Calhoun as a way to bring local, high quality flowers to market. “Starting in 2011 with a tiny piece of dirt between pecan orchards, I decided it was time to continue my family’s agricultural legacy by growing, selling and designing flowers that grow well in our climate,” says Emily.

Realizing that over 80% of the flowers used in U.S. floral arrangements were coming from South America, Emily set out to bring the “local” movement to the flower world.

Originating in Doña Ana, the business grew and eventually she expanded to Corrales to tap a burgeoning wedding market. Increasing demand for her designs necessitated a greater volume of flowers so Emily, in partnership with her sister Susannah, started Calhoun Flower Farms on 3.5 acres near Vado.

“I’m a fourth-generation farmer and I love working the land,” says Susannah. “I’ve always thought Southern New Mexico should be a leader in cut flower production due to our long growing season, abundant sunshine and mild winters.” Sam Calhoun, the girls’ father, is a pecan farmer and has helped tremendously with setting up a drip irrigation system, perfecting the use of a seaweed emulsion fertilizer and experimenting with various planting schedules. They use a variety of seeds, tubers, bulbs and seed plugs to see which variety blooms first in the spring.

Their list of available flowers is long “Our workhorses are dahlias, sunflowers and zinnias, and we’re experimenting with sweet peas, dusty miller, and tulips.” They look for multipurpose plants that are pretty both fresh and dried, with color and texture. They plan to build hoop houses and utilize caterpillar rows to extend their season to meet client needs.

“Having flowers actually grown in New Mexico is a unique touch for weddings and makes any occasion special,” says Susannah.

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While Emily creates the lush, whimsical arrangements Floriography is known for, Susannah provides the materials from Calhoun Flower Farms.

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New Mexico Farm & Ranch

Spring 2017

Deep Holes, Deeper Questions

By Dalene Hodnett, Director of Communications and Media Relations “It’s too bad people have lost trust in their government,” says New Mexico Senator Pat Woods (R-Curry, Quay & Union7). “If people believed the promises their government made, we wouldn’t be in this situation.” The situation is the proposed drilling of vertical boreholes, extending to a depth of 3 miles, to test the feasibility of underground storage of nuclear waste. The United States Department of Energy has contracted with two companies for test fields in New Mexico, one near Nara Visa, the other located in Otero County south of Piñon. The contractors, Enercon for the northern field and TerranearPMC for the southern location are both in talks with land owners to secure the rights for the testing.

The boreholes will be studied to determine the geology of the collected material and the temperature at various depths.

The hole first goes through the water table, through sediment and into a crystalline rock layer. Then the hole extends for another two miles, creating the potential cavity for waste housing. The tube would be sealed with a steel casing and covered with concrete, leaving the mile above as a buffer zone. The first hole will be 8.5 inches wide and if successful, a second hole, 17 inches wide would be drilled nearby.

According to the Department of Energy, “no nuclear waste will be involved in this field test, nor will the Department use any selected site for the actual storage or disposal of waste in the future. The contract for this project specifically prohibits the storage, disposal, or use of nuclear waste at the site of the deep borehole field test; and it further requires that, after the project is completed, the borehole will be permanently sealed and the land restored in accordance with state and local regulations.”

But John Bell, Vice President of the Otero County Farm and Livestock Bureau, is skeptical of these claims. “Our citizens don’t trust the DoE or the government as they have stolen our ranch lands, private property rights, and water rights for years. If the test well is successful the pressure to allow nuclear waste will intensify. What will the storage of waste do to the value of neighboring ranches? How many people will want to purchase beef raised near a nuclear storage facility? We want the project killed. It is a waste of money and will hurt the value of our neighboring ranches.”

A series of meetings held in neighboring communities at both sites has shown that this is a prevalent view. Bart Wyatt,

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A March 27th community meeting in Tucumcari where approximately 165 people were in attendance.

who has coordinated five meetings regarding the Enercon project near Nara Visa, says there are three primary questions: “Is the deep borehole field test cited for Quay County just a science fair project, is it possible that a nuclear waste repository could be built there, and finally, do the benefits outweigh the risks?” Despite assurances to the contrary, there is a great deal of skepticism that if the field tests are successful that the DOE will walk away from a project estimated to cost $30 million.

Ed Hughes, a Nara Visa native who spent 41 years as an agricultural engineer with the United States Department of Agriculture, presented at a community meeting in Tucumcari. He stated “If the DOE obtains favorable data out of this borehole, they have the right for eminent domain under the fifth amendment to the constitution and can take as much private land as they want to construct a full nuclear waste repository facility. They could do that if the granite is good down there.”

While the Quay County Commission was initially in favor of the project they have since voted to rescind their support.

Otero County will be discussing the project at their April meeting. Community support is vital because it is a condition of the project going forward. The DOE requires there to be sufficient support from the local community before allowing any drilling to take place, stating that “public engagement and support for this project is paramount.”

In order to garner support, TerranearPMC representatives have attended several Otero County Commission meetings.

They point out the tax, job and educational advantages of the project. “This type of research provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for New Mexico’s research institutions,” says Katie Roberts, Public Outreach Liaison for the Salt Basin Deep Borehole Research Project. “Our research partners include the University of New Mexico, New Mexico State and New Mexico Tech.

The research project will create approximately 20-25 local jobs, provide tax revenues for Otero County and an estimated $3$4 million in subcontracting work will be available for local vendors, including Small and Disadvantaged Businesses.”

Additional supporters include the land owners who have agreed to provide access to their land. Louis and Elaine James have 10 acres outside of Nara Visa that Enercon has proposed to use as a test field. Mr. James has been quoted as saying “Legally what happens on our private land can happen as long as we approve it. And that’s not an issue that people are comfortable with. They want to be in control.” Greg Duggar who owns the proposed site in Otero County cites the importance of scientific research in his decision to provide his 30 acres to TerranearPMC. In a March 31st letter Mr. Duggar states “I am currently helping to create a scientific research site that will be used to find an answer to our nation’s inevitable nuclear waste storage problem.”

There are two other sites that are being researched, one in Pecos County in Texas and the other in Haakon County in South Dakota. There are five phases to the project, with the first ending by May 31st. The second phase will conclude October 31st and by the third phase one site will be chosen as the test field.

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New Mexico Cooperative Extension Service

by Jon Boren Associate Dean and Director The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences’ Cooperative Extension Service is the community education arm of New Mexico State University. The mission of the New Mexico Cooperative Extension Service is to provide the people of New Mexico with practical, research-based knowledge and programs to improve their quality of life.

We have more than 300 faculty and staff, along with nearly 11,000 volunteers, all dedicated to improving the quality of life for their fellow New Mexicans. In response to New Mexicans’ needs, more than 650,000 receive non-formal educational programs in each of the state’s 33 counties.

Our base programs include 4-H Youth Development, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Community Economic Development, and Family and Consumer Sciences. We address emerging issues such as extreme drought, wildfires, homeland security, financial mediation, public officials training, workforce readiness, diabetes, and food safety.

Agriculture is the cornerstone of the Cooperative Extension Service. Information ranges from good agricultural practices for farmers and ranchers to urban horticulture shared through 1,000 Master Gardener volunteers. Our Range Improvement Task Force brings science to making sound natural resource management decisions, and our Extension agents are working with more than 3,300 farm operations in the metro region on plans to provide more locally grown produce to residents. New Mexico producers increased profitability thanks to forage research and Extension programs that have helped them cut fertilizer and seed costs by 25%, reduce water use by 30%, and increase yields by 10%.

The New Mexico Cooperative Extension Service is about helping families have a better quality of life, thereby helping the economic development of the state. We reach over 200,000 citizens annually though community classes and workshops on nutrition, parenting, and physical fitness. Over 55,000

“...our Extension agents are working with more than 3,300 farm operations in the metro region on plans to provide more locally grown produce to residents.”

New Mexicans participate in our nutrition education program.

Studies have shown an 85% improvement in nutrition practices, 75% improved diet quality, and 32% improved physical activity resulting in approximately $6.6 million in savings in terms of health-related expenses to the state.

The New Mexico 4-H program prepares over 40,000 young people annually for the workforce by teaching critical life skills including leadership, management, and communication. Over 38,000 Page 12

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youth participate in Science and Technology programs, and over 16,000 participate in Healthy Living programs. One in nine children in public and private schools across the state receive enhanced curriculum during school hours through 4-H School Enrichment programs. We are very proud of the statistics that 4-H youth are 2 times more likely to be civically active, 2 times more likely to participate in STEM programs, half as likely to be involved in substance abuse, and 5 times more likely to graduate college.

We would not be able to provide clientele with quality programs without the outstanding faculty and staff that we are fortunate to have, along with the support of our local partners and numerous volunteers. The Cooperative Extension Service is the non-formal, educational component of New Mexico State University, the state’s land-grant university and with a presence in all 33 counties, the Cooperative Extension Service serves as the “front door” to New Mexico State University.

As we move into the future, we embrace our mission of providing information and education, and encourage the application of research-based knowledge in response to issues affecting individuals, youth, families, agricultural and natural resource industries, and rural and urban communities of New Mexico. Keeping local needs at the forefront ensures the success of the Cooperative Extension Service. We will continue to listen, respond to our clientele needs, and bring about change that improves the quality of life for New Mexicans.

From alfalfa in Artesia to canning classes in San Juan County, the CES offers something for everyone. Opposite page: Robert Flynn, an agronomist with NMSU’s Agricultural Science Center at Artesia, checks for soil moisture content as part of his research into drought tolerant alfalfa varieties. Other research stations include the Leyendecker Plant Science Center and Fabian Garcia Research Center in Las Cruces, the Chihuahuan Desert Rangeland Research Center near Organ, the John T. Harrington Forestry Research Center at Mora, the Clayton Livestock Research Center, the Sustainable Agriculture Science Center at Alcalde, the Corona Range and Livestock Research Center, and Agricultural Science Centers at Clovis, Farmington, Los Lunas, and Tucumcari. Above left: Archery is one of many shooting sports available to members of 4-H clubs. Others include muzzeloader, .22 rifle, and shotgun. Members compete at county, district, state and national competitions through 4-H. Above right: Shelly Hathorn, the Extension County Director and 4-H Home Economist for San Juan County teaches a canning class. Also offered at all county offices are diabetic cooking classes and nutrition classes.

“READY” from pg 3 fore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” American agriculture has a plentiful harvest of policy issues and elected leaders who are ready to listen. The workers are few, but we can accomplish a lot if we share our stories, our struggles and our desire to provide this nation with food and strength. Will you join us in reaping the harvest?

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YF&R Pasture Golf Fund Raiser a Big Success!

The Young Farmers and Ranchers 2nd Annual Pasture Golf Tournament was held February 25th in Loving, NM. It was very successful, and a lot of memories were made. The weather was a little chilly, but turned out to be a beautiful day. “We want to thank the counties and businesses that supported us in this fundraiser and we look forward to next year’s tournament,” says Tessa Ogden, who along with her husband Joseph, are the District III Representatives for the Young Farmer and Rancher Committee.

The winnning team, along with various YF&R members is: Tanner Anderson , Jeff Mayberry, Andy Ellett, Adan Carrillo, Quentin Talbot, Kurt Talbot, and Joseph Ogden.

The team above is: Dale Cone, Kendall Cone, Ryan Nesbit, Tucker Nesbit, and Kimber Cone.

Opposite: Team Sweet Spot - Marisa Onsurez, Ashley Brown, Tara Walls, and Wendy Ballard.

We’d love for you to join the Young Farmers and Ranchers Program.

Just go to www.nmflb.org and look for us under programs.

Also find us on Facebook!

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Spring 2017

You bought insurance for your phone.

What about your life?

Are you one of the 30 million Americans who doesn’t have life insurance?1 We can help. Contact your Farm Bureau agent and schedule a SuperCheck® today.

Auto | Home | Life | Annuities | Business | Farm & Ranch | fbfs.com 1 LIMRA Life Insurance Consumer Studies, Facts About Life 2016. Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company,* Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company,* Western Agricultural Insurance Company*/West Des Moines, IA. *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services LI168 (2-17)

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Non-profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Las Cruces, N.M. Permit No.2093

2220 N. Telshor Las Cruces, NM 88011

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

NEW MEXICO FARM & LIVESTOCK BUREAU Since 1917 . . . a Leader in New Mexico

ISSN 0028-6192 2220 N. TELSHOR BLVD. • LAS CRUCES, NM 88011 575.532.4700 • FAX: 575.532.4710 PUBLISHER: New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau New Mexico Farm & Ranch is published monthly. Yearly subscription is $24.00.

New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau members receive a complimentary subscription with yearly dues.

U.S. Postage PAID, bulk rate, PERMIT #31, Las Cruces, NM 88001. FORWARDING/RETURN POSTAGE GUARANTEED, ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED. OFFICERS Craig Ogden President, Loving Larry Reagan 1st Vice President, Ft. Sumner Boe Lopez 2nd Vice President, Springer Mike White Past President, Dexter Page 16

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New Mexico Farm & Ranch

Chad Smith Chief Executive Officer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Burl Brown, Des Moines Bud Deerman, La Mesa Jim Ellett, Hope Duane Frost, Claunch Anita Hand, Datil Gary Hathorn, Flora Vista Leon Hemann, McDonald Jay Hill, Mesilla Park George Jackson, Lordsburg John Jackson, Lake Arthur Janet Jarratt, Los Lunas Deena Kinman, Elida Matt Lansford, Clovis Danielle Lowry, Albuquerque Donald Martinez, El Rito Tommy Ortiz, Las Vegas Troy Sauble, Maxwell Paula Sichler, San Antonio John Sweetser, Deming Tom Wilton, Ft. Sumner Anita Hand, Chair Women’s Leadership Committee Danielle Lowry, Chair Young Farmer & Rancher Committee

REGIONAL DIRECTORS Tanner Anderson, Portales Valerie Huerta, Santa Cruz Zach Riley, Albuquerque Benjie Segovia, Las Cruces Cheryl Butterfield Northern Director, Ag in the Classroom Traci Curry Southern Director, Ag in the Classroom Francisco Hatay Marketing Coordinator Dalene Hodnett Director of Communications and Media Relations Carmen Macias Comptroller Theresa Widner Director of Membership Services

Spring 2017